Apple Watch SE (2022) vs Fitbit Sense
The Verdict
Apple Watch SE (2022) excels at integration with Apple's ecosystem, offering faster performance via the S8 chip, vibrant LTPO OLED display, and seamless connectivity with iPhones. Its 18-hour battery is typical for smartwatches but requires daily charging. Fitbit Sense prioritizes health tracking with ECG, SpO2, skin temperature monitoring, and sleep analysis, features absent from the SE. Battery life stretches to 6+ days, a significant advantage for those avoiding frequent charging. The Sense weighs 45.9g versus the SE's 26.8g-33g, making it noticeably heavier. Display quality favors Apple's LTPO OLED technology over Fitbit's AMOLED, though both are bright and responsive. Connectivity differs meaningfully: Apple Watch includes cellular options and WiFi, while Fitbit Sense lacks cellular capability. For iPhone users prioritizing app ecosystem, responsiveness, and design, the SE delivers exceptional value. For fitness enthusiasts wanting comprehensive health metrics and extended battery life, Fitbit Sense justifies its $50 premium. Your choice depends on platform loyalty versus health-tracking depth.
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 Sense if…
- →Most comprehensive health sensor suite at launch — EDA, ECG, SpO2, skin temp
- →6+ day battery outlasts Apple Watch and Samsung Galaxy Watch
- →Built-in GPS for phone-free outdoor workouts
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 Sense
Pros
- Most comprehensive health sensor suite at launch — EDA, ECG, SpO2, skin temp
- 6+ day battery outlasts Apple Watch and Samsung Galaxy Watch
- Built-in GPS for phone-free outdoor workouts
- Stress management score with EDA sensor is unique
- NFC for Fitbit Pay contactless payments
Cons
- Fitbit OS app ecosystem is very limited compared to watchOS/Wear OS
- Capacitive button is unreliable and frustrating to press
- Many advanced features require Fitbit Premium subscription ($10/mo)
- Google acquisition created uncertainty about Fitbit OS future
Full Specifications
| Spec | Apple Watch SE (2022) | Fitbit Sense |
|---|---|---|
| Software | watchOS 9 (upgradable to watchOS 11+) | Fitbit OS |
| Body | ||
| Weight | 26.8 g (40mm) / 33 g (44mm) | 45.9 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 6+ days |
| Display | ||
| Size | 40mm / 44mm | 40mm (1.58 inches) |
| Type | LTPO OLED Retina | AMOLED |
| Always-on display | ||
| Resolution | 324 x 394 / 368 x 448 | 336 x 336 |
| Processor | ||
| Chipset | Apple S8 SiP | Fitbit custom processor |
| Connectivity | ||
| GPS | ||
| NFC | ||
| Wi-Fi | ||
| Cellular | ||
| Bluetooth | 5.3 | 5.0 |
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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 Sense.