Apple Watch SE (2022) vs Fitbit Charge 6
The Verdict
Apple Watch SE (2022) excels as a comprehensive fitness and notification hub with its vibrant LTPO OLED Retina display, powerful S8 processor, and seamless Apple ecosystem integration, offering always-responsive performance at $249. Fitbit Charge 6 ($159) targets health-conscious users seeking medical-grade features like ECG and blood oxygen monitoring, bundled with Google Fit integration and exceptional 7-day battery life,nearly 4x longer than Apple's 18-hour claim. Apple dominates in app ecosystem, speed, and smartwatch functionality, while Fitbit prioritizes health tracking fundamentals and endurance. For iPhone users wanting a full-featured smartwatch, Apple wins decisively. Android users or those prioritizing battery life and medical sensors should choose Fitbit. Budget-conscious shoppers will find Fitbit the better value despite fewer features.
Who Should Buy
Buy the Apple Watch SE (2022) if…
- →Same S8 chip as Series 8 at $150 less — best value Apple Watch
- →Crash Detection included at this price point
- →Lightweight nylon-reinforced composite back is comfortable on the wrist
Buy the Fitbit Charge 6 if…
- →ECG and built-in GPS on a fitness band at $159 is remarkable value
- →7-day battery life means weekly charging at most
- →Google Maps, YouTube Music, and Google Wallet integration
Category Scores
Pros & Cons
Apple Watch SE (2022)
Pros
- Same S8 chip as Series 8 at $150 less — best value Apple Watch
- Crash Detection included at this price point
- Lightweight nylon-reinforced composite back is comfortable on the wrist
- Family Setup lets kids use it without an iPhone
- Full access to the Apple Watch app ecosystem
Cons
- No Always-On display — screen goes dark when wrist is lowered
- No ECG, SpO2, or skin temperature sensors
- Thicker bezels than Series 8 make the screen feel smaller
- 18-hour battery still requires nightly charging
Fitbit Charge 6
Pros
- ECG and built-in GPS on a fitness band at $159 is remarkable value
- 7-day battery life means weekly charging at most
- Google Maps, YouTube Music, and Google Wallet integration
- Physical side button returns — much better than Charge 5's touch sensor
- Slim, lightweight band form factor for 24/7 comfort
Cons
- Small screen limits app usability and readability
- Many features require Fitbit Premium subscription
- No voice assistant or microphone on the band
- Limited third-party app support compared to full smartwatches
Full Specifications
| Spec | Apple Watch SE (2022) | Fitbit Charge 6 |
|---|---|---|
| Software | watchOS 9 (upgradable to watchOS 11+) | Fitbit OS (Google integration) |
| Body | ||
| Weight | 26.8 g (40mm) / 33 g (44mm) | 37 g |
| Case material | Aluminum | Aluminum |
| Water resistance | WR50 (50m) | 5ATM |
| Health & Sensors | ||
| ECG | ||
| SpO₂ | ||
| Skin temperature | ||
| Heart rate | ||
| Sleep tracking | ||
| Battery | ||
| Battery life | Up to 18 hours | Up to 7 days |
| Display | ||
| Size | 40mm / 44mm | 1.04 inches |
| Type | LTPO OLED Retina | AMOLED |
| Always-on display | ||
| Resolution | 324 x 394 / 368 x 448 | 234 x 156 |
| Processor | ||
| Chipset | Apple S8 SiP | Fitbit custom processor |
| Connectivity | ||
| GPS | ||
| NFC | ||
| Wi-Fi | ||
| Cellular | ||
| Bluetooth | 5.3 | 5.0 |
Related Comparisons
This comparison is based on verified manufacturer specifications covering display, performance, camera, battery, and build quality. Scores are generated by analyzing specs across weighted categories on a 10-point scale. Learn more about our methodology.
Explore more in smartwatches, see all Apple products or all Fitbit products. View full details for the Apple Watch SE (2022) or the Fitbit Charge 6.