Apple Watch and Fitbit are two of the most popular smartwatches for general health tracking, and both now include HRV measurement. The Apple Watch targets the premium end with deep iOS integration, while Fitbit offers more affordable options with strong sleep and fitness features. This comparison examines how they stack up specifically for HRV tracking.
Comparison Overview
| Category | Apple Watch | Fitbit Sense 2 / Charge 6 |
|---|---|---|
| HRV Accuracy | PPG optical sensor, measures throughout the day and during sleep ✓ | PPG optical sensor, HRV measured primarily during sleep |
| Apple Watch samples HRV more frequently and provides more data points | ||
| Price | $399-799 depending on model | $150-350 depending on model ✓ |
| Fitbit offers capable HRV tracking at a significantly lower price point | ||
| Battery Life | 18-36 hours depending on model | Up to 6 days on many models ✓ |
| Fitbit's superior battery life means fewer missed nights of tracking | ||
| Comfort/Wearability | Premium build, slightly heavy for sleep tracking | Lighter designs available, more comfortable for overnight wear ✓ |
| Fitbit's lighter models are generally more comfortable for 24/7 wear | ||
| App Experience | Apple Health with deep watchOS integration, third-party apps | Fitbit app with sleep score, Daily Readiness Score (Premium), stress management |
| Apple Health is more open; Fitbit's app provides more guided HRV insights | ||
| Data Export | Apple Health allows broad data sharing with third-party apps ✓ | Fitbit Premium required for detailed data; Google Health Connect on Android |
| Apple Health is a more open platform for health data | ||
| Subscription Requirements | No subscription needed for full features ✓ | Fitbit Premium ($10/month) required for Daily Readiness and detailed HRV |
| Apple Watch includes all health features; Fitbit gates some behind a paywall | ||
| Best For | iPhone users who want a premium all-in-one health and smartwatch experience | Budget-conscious users who want solid sleep and HRV tracking |
| Your phone ecosystem and budget should drive this decision | ||
The Bottom Line
Choose the Apple Watch if you are an iPhone user who wants the most capable smartwatch with HRV tracking built in. It offers more frequent HRV sampling, no subscription requirements, and deep integration with the Apple Health ecosystem. The trade-off is a higher price and shorter battery life that requires daily charging.
Choose Fitbit if you want affordable HRV and sleep tracking with excellent battery life. Fitbit's multi-day battery means you are less likely to miss overnight HRV readings, and models like the Charge 6 and Sense 2 offer solid health tracking at a fraction of the Apple Watch price. Note that the best HRV features require a Fitbit Premium subscription.
Both are solid choices for casual HRV tracking as part of a broader health routine. If you already own an iPhone, the Apple Watch is the natural choice. If budget and battery life matter more, Fitbit delivers excellent value.
Detailed Reviews
Apple Watch
Convenient if you already wear one, but not recommended as a primary HRV device. The native Health app provides...
Full reviewFitbit Sense 2 / Charge 6
Good for general fitness users who want HRV as part of broader health tracking. The Premium subscription unlocks the...
Full review