If you‘re trying to decide between the Fitbit Sense 2 and the original Sense, you‘ve come to the right place. As an experienced data analyst and wearable tech specialist, I‘ve done an in-depth comparison of these two fitness smartwatches to help you pick the right one.
In this guide, we‘ll look at all the key differences between the Sense 2 and Sense models, including:
- Design and build quality
- Display specs and brightness
- Sensors for health tracking
- Software and interface
- Smartwatch functions
- Battery life
- Price and value
I‘ll also highlight the pros and cons of each watch to reveal how they stack up overall. My goal is to provide you with all the details and insight you need to decide if the Sense 2 is worth upgrading to or if you‘re better off sticking with the tried-and-true original. Let‘s get started!
Fitbit Sense 2 vs. Sense: How they compare
At first glance, the Sense 2 looks almost identical to the original Sense. But once we dive into the specs, some subtle but important differences emerge:
Design
- The Sense 2 is slightly smaller at 38 x 38 x 11.4 mm vs. 40.48 x 40.48 x 12.35 mm for the original.
- It‘s constructed from an anodized aluminum alloy rather than the stainless steel frame of the Sense. This makes the Sense 2 about 15% lighter.
- The capacitive side button on the original Sense is replaced with a physical button on the Sense 2. This should prevent accidental activations.
- With its metal frame and slimmer bezel, the Sense 2 looks a bit more stylish and premium.
Display
- Both watches have a bright, vibrant 1.58” AMOLED display.
- Resolution is 336 x 336 pixels for around 300 ppi density.
- Max brightness hits 1000 nits for easy outdoor visibility.
Sensors & Health Tracking
- Each model includes blood oxygen (SpO2) monitoring, ECG, sleep tracking, stress tracking, GPS, optical heart rate sensor, accelerometer, and more.
- The Sense 2 adds a cEDA sensor that passively checks for stress 24/7, unlike the manual EDA scans required on the Sense.
- Exercise modes detected automatically increase from 20+ on the Sense to 40+ on the Sense 2.
Battery Life
- Both watches claim a 6+ day battery life. Real-world results vary with usage.
- Exact battery specs are unknown, but the capacity is likely around 266 mAh for each.
Software & Interface
- The Sense 2 still runs Fitbit‘s proprietary UI rather than Google‘s Wear OS. This likely aids battery life.
- However, the Sense 2 lacks some of the original Sense‘s app support and Google integration at launch. No Google Assistant yet, no Google Maps, etc. These features are coming later via updates.
Price
- The Sense 2 costs around $299.95 USD while the original now sells for $150-$200.
As you can see, the overall user experience is very similar between these two Fitbit flagships. So is the Sense 2 worth paying nearly twice as much for? Let‘s weigh the pros and cons.
Sense 2 Pros & Cons
Pros
- More stylish, premium design
- cEDA provides continuous stress tracking
- Recognizes 40+ different exercises automatically
- Will eventually add Assistant, Maps, etc. via software updates
Cons
- Very expensive for the small upgrades
- Currently lacks some Sense software features
- Battery life identical to original
Original Sense Pros & Cons
Pros
- Proven fitness tracking and ECG capabilities
- More affordable price
- Wider app support and Google integration currently
Cons
- Less attractive design
- No continuous stress tracking
- Capacitive side button can cause issues
Which Should You Buy?
For most users, the far lower price makes the original Fitbit Sense the better buy for now. It delivers the same core health tracking functions and 6-day battery of the Sense 2, along with better smartwatch integration, at nearly half the cost.
The Sense 2 is best for:
- Those who want continuous stress tracking
- Fitbit enthusiasts who always need the latest model
- Users who prefer the updated design and premium aesthetics
However, once the promised software updates roll out over the coming months, the Sense 2 will be more compelling. By then, it should offer the same app support and Google features as the Sense while adding the cEDA sensor.
My advice is to consider waiting 6-12 months if you‘re keen on the Sense 2. At that point, it will be a more capable successor worth the higher price. But for most users today, the original Fitbit Sense gives you the best bang for your buck and all the key features you need.
I hope this detailed comparison of the Fitbit Sense 2 vs. the original Sense has helped give you clarity! Let me know if you have any other questions.