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Fitbit Blaze Versus Fitbit Surge Comparison

Though there are rumors of a new Fitbit smartwatch coming soon, the Fitbit Blaze and Fitbit Surge are still going strong – and both are priced to sell.

The Blaze and the Surge both have some great features, so how do you know which one is best for you?

Compare Fitbit Blaze and Surge Head-to-Head

To help you answer that question check out our Fitbit Blaze vs. Fitbit Surge review below. We will give you a complete rundown on the features of each device, as well as see how they compare head-to-head. One thing is for sure: they both will help you get in-shape, so it’s a win-win either way.

Fitbit Blaze Overview


The Blaze is a truly unique device, not because of its style, but because of what it has and can do. Oh, don’t misunderstand, it is a beautifully designed watch that features interchangeable bands and faces.


Click the Image to Download the Fact Sheet Here.
 

But it is the features and functions of the Blaze that really make it stand out. Among its top features are:

  • Color, LED touchscreen for easy use and clear stats that can be seen in any light.
  • Modern Look and Feel that you can’t see in other Fitbits
  • Pure Pulse Technology with new sensors for more accurate, 24/7 monitoring.
  • Smart Track, which recognizes and analyzes activity specific moves, like running, biking and soccer, for improved stats.
  • LED color display  that is eye-catching and easier to read.
  • FitStar App, which is built into the device and can coach you through a variety of moves.
  • Enhanced Idle Alert, which not only alerts you to move, but requires you to take at least 250 steps for it to stop.
  • A 5-day battery life, all from a 2-hour charge.

 

Fitbit Surge Overview


The Fitbit Surge is the cream of the crop when it comes to the company’s line of diverse trackers. With an attractive display and enhanced features like built-in GPS tracking and optimized heart rate monitoring, it’s easy to understand why it is such a big hit with consumers. That, combined with easy to use components, makes it a top seller. Among its best features are:

• Clear, sharp, OLED display (with some touchscreen gestures) that gives you the time and all your stats.
• Pure Pulse Technology to track your heart rate around the clock.
Built-in GPS, allowing runners to find new trails and analyze mile times, in addition to helping everyone have more accurate readings.
Smart Notifications alert you when you have an incoming call or text

 

Fitbit Blaze and Fitbit Surge Comparison

Similarities

The Blaze and Surge have several features in common. Among the traits they share are:

Pure Pulse Technology: both have sensitive, enhanced sensors to monitor your heart continuously, so you know how healthy you are and how you can improve.
Smart Notifications: each device can sync to your phone to let you get alerts when you get an email, text or phone call.
Tracking: both track calories, distance and steps accurately for improved performance. They both have auto sleep detection, so your sleep will be tracked easily.

Additionally, neither of these trackers are waterproof — they are only water resistant. They are fairly close in price, especially with current discounts, so your decision will likely be based on the specific features that are most meaningful to you.

Differences

While both devices are top of the line, these are their differences that will help you decide which fits you best. Let’s compare them in the key categories:

Design

The Blaze is much flashier than the Surge, and you have the option to change bands to customize the look. The Surge is a more low profile option with an OLED screen and no option to change bands.

While the Blaze seems like a more fashionable choice, plenty of customers want a low key design and don’t care about changing bands or vibrant screens. The Surge still looks nice and comes in three color options.

Fitbit Surge Life Style for Men

The design of the screens themselves are very different, of course, because they are different types of screens. The Blaze has a colorful, attractive interface and works more smoothly. On the flip side, the Surge is great for tough, sweaty workouts.

Notifications

The Blaze’s notifications are everything you’d expect from a tracker that looks like a smartwatch. It has a full range of notifications. The Surge only gives you text and call notifications.

GPS

The Surge has GPS tracking; the Blaze only has connected GPS, meaning your phone has to be nearby.

Battery Life

The GPS on the Surge cuts down on the battery life, and the Blaze’s color screen means a shortened battery lifespan, too. The Blaze will get up to five days of battery and the Surge can get over a week. Both of these are affected by things like GPS and screen use, so don’t count on that much from either of them. Fortunately, both charge quickly.

 

Verdict

Both of these devices have lots to offer. Let’s examine the pros and cons for each to see how they look overall.

The Fitbit Surge: GPS, Simple Design, Durability

The Surge offers users GPS for advanced routine tracking when running or hiking outdoor. It also lets you control incoming notifications and see everything with a simple glance down. GPS is a big plus because you can run or hike on new trails and always know where you are and how to get back.

On the down side, it is a bit expensive and does not have many of the Blaze’s features, like the vibrant color screen or enhanced tracking features to help elevate your fitness routine to the next level.

Fitbit Blaze Life Style for Women - Beautiful Fashion and Features

 

The Fitbit Blaze: Color Screen, Fashionable, All-in-One Functionality

The Blaze is packed with exciting new features and a stylish new look. It is versatile in how it can be worn and is advanced in terms of guiding your fitness routines and monitoring your heart rate. There is also activity recognition, so stats are based on what you do, not an approximation. It also has a color, LED touchscreen, giving it added polish and function.

Cons: It doesn’t have built-in GPS and is not water-proof.

The GPS can be an issue, as it means you will need to carry your phone when you run to use that feature, which can be a turn off for runners and hikers. Plus, as this is a 2016 model, it should be water-proof to compete with Garmin and other quality devices. You may also check out how Blaze competes with Charge HR as a reference.

 

74 Comments

  • Andrew March 7, 2018 at 10:42 pm
    I have both the blaze and the surge....does anyone know whether you can sync them BOTH to the android Fitbit application...ie...use one while the other is charging but get the android Fitbit to sync to both depending on which is used,, Cheers
    • Emery March 9, 2018 at 12:51 pm
      Hi Andrew, I found this article on Fitbit's blog: https://blog.fitbit.com/sync-multiple-trackers-to-your-fitbit-account-with-multi-tracker-support/ Basically it explains that you can use multiple trackers on one account and that Fitbit will automatically detect when you swap devices. If you have any trouble setting up or any issues with the app detecting your device, I'd recommend chatting with Fitbit's support. They've been super helpful every time I've contacted them via chat on their website!
    • Mark nakonechny January 9, 2020 at 4:00 pm from soaplakewashington
      that is true i also have both of them and i do the same thing
  • Brad Callahan January 21, 2018 at 10:57 am
    Thanks for discontinuing the surge:(
  • Momma bear May 26, 2017 at 10:04 am
    I have just bought the BLAZE and haven't opened it yet as I'm so unsure which is better. If I go for a run of have to take my phone anyway in case of an emergency so 70% says stay with the BLAZE where as i do like the sound of not taking my phone on my bike. Aarghhhhhhh so confusing. But thank you for this page - full of information
  • elesha May 5, 2017 at 9:53 pm
    My question, as I am going back-and-forth between the blaze and the surge, is do you have to have your phone on you to control the music? Or control the texts or phone notifications? Texts and phone notifications aren't really important, but I like to have the music and I need GPS capability. I would prefer to not always have to have my phone on me.
  • Jason B. March 24, 2017 at 1:41 am
    I listen to music on my phone and the blaze has to have a phone to get gps,but if I bought a surge would I have to bring my phone when running to listen to music while running or would I have to bring my phone?
  • Jenny February 4, 2017 at 4:57 pm
    Hey I havam a charge HR and I am looking to get either a surge or a blaze. I am a cross country runner, but I also bike hike and usually have my phone near by. I don't k ow which watch to get. My big issue is interchangeable bands so that it last longer. Which watch is also more accurate for my sport, I also have a framing but need a new watch?
    • Ken L. February 6, 2017 at 8:32 am
      Jenny, if you have your phone nearby, I prefer Blaze as you can exchange band and it's in big sale recently. Thanks!
    • Mark nakonechny January 9, 2020 at 4:01 pm from soaplakewashington
      oh thats really cool
  • Ujan Talukdar November 15, 2016 at 10:33 pm
    I am still unsure as to what I want between the Surge and Blaze. My parents both own Fitbits, one has a charge and one has a blaze. Right now, I am looking at either the Blaze or Surge. I am a long distance runner who would like to show off where I went on runs to people, so it looks like the Surge is the one for me. Quick question: Do I need to have my phone on me to get an accurate GPS if I get the Surge?
    • Ken L. November 22, 2016 at 7:07 pm
      Ujan, you don't need a phone with you as Surge has built-in GPS feature.
  • Edwin September 21, 2016 at 8:37 pm
    I am debating between the Blaze and Surge. I play a lot of tennis and also play softball and sometimes biking. Which is one is better to wear while playing tennis and softball?
    • Ken L. September 26, 2016 at 1:08 am
      Edwin, thanks for checking. If you don't need built-in GPS, Blaze would work the best.
  • Nick P. September 19, 2016 at 2:44 am
    Loved my Surge, I had it for 2 years. DON'T GO SWIMMING WITH IT. Being in the military i wanted a watch that could hold up to everyday use but handle the tuff days as well and the surge did that. I would recommend the surge any day but again don't go swimming with it. Mine finally stopped working even after months of swimming.
    • Ken L. October 21, 2016 at 4:22 pm
      Nick, thanks for your input. I don't swim with my Blaze, may consider getting Flex 2 later.
  • Carrie Bruette August 28, 2016 at 12:14 pm
    I'm debating on getting the blaze or the surge. Great article. I'm not a runner or hiker but I do like to go for walks and I go to the gym to do strength training and cardio there. Which one would be the best fit for me?
    • Ken L. August 30, 2016 at 5:10 am
      Hi Carrie, it really depends if you will carry your phone tracking with GPS. I will go for Blaze given it looks much better and you can change the band any color and material you like.
  • Riyan parag August 18, 2016 at 4:06 am
    Hi i am a sportsperson so i have just ordered the surge will it appropriate for me . And i can count calories and steps in the surge right??
    • Ken L. August 19, 2016 at 3:17 pm
      Hi Riyan, it is. Also it comes with GPS tracking your miles and routes when you go out running. Cheers!
  • Wilbero June 27, 2016 at 4:36 pm
    I'd happily use my phone for GPS and go for the blaze - can someone tell me how they sync? I.e. Bluetooth, or does it rely on mobile data (I don't fancy crunching through my data allowance on my runs)?
    • Ken L. June 28, 2016 at 6:42 am
      It just syncs with bluetooth. You need to tap on the screen to connect to the phone when tracking your running route.
  • Larry June 9, 2016 at 8:28 pm
    Which device is better at tracking other fitness activities, such as weightlifting, treadmill, etc.?
    • Ken L. June 28, 2016 at 6:43 am
      Blaze has Auto Activity Track and it fits the bill better.
  • Clay May 20, 2016 at 8:06 pm
    Is the GPS really that beneficial when I have my phone with me anyway?
    • Ken L. June 6, 2016 at 12:31 am
      I got my Blaze and it connects with my phone when I go on run. Some people don't like carrying phones around, and Surge has built-in GPS.
  • June chaney May 9, 2016 at 12:08 pm
    Can not feel buz on wrist when u have calls on the blaze can u feel them better on the surge
    • Ken L. June 6, 2016 at 12:33 am
      June, the Buzz when call coming in is ok for my Blaze. Don't know if Surge has better vibration.
  • Chandresh May 7, 2016 at 8:25 am
    Hello there, I have been using the FitBit charge HR since a month and absolutely love it and now have preordered for the blaze, after reading several discussions online I have understood the only difference between the blaze and the surge is the GPS, what I need to know is, is that the only difference between the two devices. Also would like to know the same features that are there in Charge HR, are they all there in the blaze and what additional features are there in blaze, just out of curiousity would like to know before I get it, thank you, cheers.
    • Ken L. May 10, 2016 at 1:07 am
      Yes, the only difference is the GPS on Blaze and Surge. Blaze is thinner and more stylist for me and I love wearing it. I swap using Charge HR sometimes as it's small and I feel more comfortable wearing it to track sleep quality when I sleep. Charge HR and Blaze track Heart Rate, calling ID notification, and tracking steps.
  • Nicole E. April 17, 2016 at 3:15 pm
    I have had a surge for the last year now and love it. My only complaint is that the surge is a little too bulky. Then I saw the blaze and like the sleeker design and thought about buying the blaze for going out because I sometimes want to track my steps when I am out with the girls but my surge is too bulky for my outfit...but now I am thinking that would be just a waste of money because the surge does more then the blaze (GPS) and would only be wearing the blaze for fashion and not its intended purpose. Are there others that have multiple trackers?
    • Ken L. April 24, 2016 at 9:26 pm
      I agree that Blaze is more fashion except there is no GPS as good as Surge. Either one is still a buy one.
  • Elizabeth Craig April 9, 2016 at 1:27 pm
    I'm getting a blaze today...excitement! My daughter gets my year-old HR fitbit...she's excited too! Thanks for your assessment! Fitbit keeps me going with challenges!
  • Dan March 23, 2016 at 3:10 am
    I know the blaze isn't water proof .. but isn't is water resistant ? ... the surge isn't water proof isn't it water resistant also?
    • Ken L. March 24, 2016 at 4:59 am
      Dan, they are water resistant, but not water-proof. You can take shower with them, but not swimming. Thanks!
  • Jeremy March 12, 2016 at 12:46 am
    Is it possible to have the blaze to wear during the daytime, while at work and then switch over to the surge for a nightly run to be able to use the gps that way? Can you sync two fitbits to one account like that??
    • Ken L. March 13, 2016 at 3:34 am
      Yes, I believe so as the mobile app supports multiple fitbits.
  • nedkubda March 11, 2016 at 4:03 am
    I bought a blaze and am returning it. There are no idle alerts. Fit star is cheap and basically show how to do a pushup. If you cant do basic calinsthetics, may like, but as militray and personal trainer, fitstar ap is a joke. The charge HR upgrades gave started smart track. while I like the asthetic appeal of blaze( didnt need gps) fitbit tried way too hard to make like smart watch. The screen is very sensitive. The workout timer has a pause button thats ulta sensitive. If oy weAr long sleeves, gloves, jacket or come across slight breeze/brush watch face, it stops the timer. Is sucks to end long workout to discover it paused half way through, now yoy have to go ack and manually enter workout. As an avid kickboxer, this was severe disappointment. No matter how pretty you are paying for a fancy fitbit flex meets smartwatch and lose reliability.save your money
  • Darla March 6, 2016 at 6:05 am
    Does the blaze track your distance and your pace? I don't need the GPS for direction but want my pace tracking like my garmin.
    • China April 22, 2017 at 1:22 am
      This makes evhnyteirg so completely painless.
  • Steve March 3, 2016 at 2:53 pm
    I race canoes so the GPS on board is a must. Bringing a phone in the racing boat is difficult. Water proof would have been nice too. we do fall in once in a great while. I sure wish the surge looked as classy as the blaze. Any word on the next generation?
    • Ken L. March 13, 2016 at 3:41 am
      Steve, we are all waiting for the 3rd new model for the year. I wish it's all about Water-proof and have all features like GPS, and Heart-rate monitor too.
  • Jaxson Cortinas March 3, 2016 at 3:32 am
    One thing that I really love about the Surge is that it has GPS. I play lots of soccer and it's really nice that I don't have to have my phone on me while I play. I'm not sure if the Blaze will allow me to do that, so should I stick with the Surge?
    • Ken L. March 13, 2016 at 3:39 am
      Jaxson, you need to have your phone getting GPS data with Blaze. Keep your Surge as it's all you need. :)
  • Lauren February 29, 2016 at 3:20 am
    So so excited. .. My blaze is shipping today. I ve been waiting for it for over a month! I'll let u know what I think.
    • Ken L. March 13, 2016 at 3:37 am
      Nice, very good for you, Lauren. Let us know how you like it. :)
  • Kate February 25, 2016 at 4:46 pm
    Is the surge or blaze compatible with iphones??
    • Ken L. March 13, 2016 at 3:38 am
      Yes, there is a Fitbit app that you can download in AppStore. It syncs with your iPhone to receive calls and text.
  • Jim Tew February 24, 2016 at 6:30 pm
    I've used my iPhone GPS for a long time. Prior to that a Garmin (Forerunner?) wrist unit, when I hiked a lot of cross country. I love the Surge but think the iPhone GPS "may" be slightly more accurate. So, I'm going to send the Surge to my son who hikes more and enjoy my Surge when it arrives tomorrow. AND, I also have a ONE which I carry when I'm out in public and need to give my wrist a rest. My wife and I have been with FitBit for over two years. It has changed our life...and health.
    • Jim Tew February 24, 2016 at 6:31 pm
      Or, rather, enjoy my BLAZE when it arrives in my mailbox tomorrow.
      • Ken L. March 13, 2016 at 3:38 am
        Nice. I'm happy for you!
  • Don Stachula February 11, 2016 at 6:01 pm
    Like the design of the blaze, but wondered about its size. Will it fit under a shirt sleeve of a men's dress shirt?
  • Just Ducky February 9, 2016 at 5:34 pm
    I have a Charge HR and considered upgrading to either the Surge or Blaze. Liked the GPS of the Surge until I read it is a battery drainer (i.e., GPS us up battery in 10 hours). I like not having to charge every day (one reason for not considering Apple Watch). I use the IPhone GPS when exercising out doors. Can't image not taking a cell phone on a long bike in this day and age (in case of emergency, for listening to music, for checking the weather, etc.). So the Blaze seems like the best choice.
    • Ken L. February 12, 2016 at 1:54 pm
      Yes, Blaze does and fits your bill. Also you can control your music play and get text on Blaze.
  • Walida Gwinn February 2, 2016 at 6:15 pm
    I just brought Surge, and now I see the Blaze. I'm so confuse if I should keep the surge or return and buy the blaze. I LOVE how the blaze look.
    • Ken L. February 6, 2016 at 5:11 pm
      Walida, if you don't need a GPS feature built-in, I second that Blaze looking great and you may consider return and have it instead. :)
  • Julie February 1, 2016 at 1:47 am
    I really much prefer the look of the new Blaze, however love the GPS feature of my current Surge. Any chance that a future software upgrade to the Blaze will include GPS?
    • Ken L. February 1, 2016 at 2:38 am
      Julie, I know it's a hard call. However, Blaze doesn't have the hardware GPS chip-set that Surge has. I wish it had it all too - good looking, gps, and water-proof!
  • sanj January 31, 2016 at 1:49 am
    ohhh man I really wap planning on the blaze but now im not to sure because I want my fitness to be recorded as accurately as possible
    • Ken L. February 1, 2016 at 12:23 am
      Sanj, it's accurate, but don't know if the must-have upgrade for all Fitbit Fans.
  • David L January 28, 2016 at 11:28 pm
    If by "enhanced tracking features" you mean: SmartTrack™ Fitbit Blaze uses SmartTrack to automatically recognize and record exercises for you, so you’ll get credit for a workout even if you forget to log it. They more or less retrofitted this into the Surge in December. It is great when you forget to start a workout or go on a walk that goes longer than originally planned as the Surge will auto log the workout for you. The one in the Blaze though could be more accurate though as I have had jogs get logged as outdoor biking. Although the Surge does not have the idle alerts. That sounds interesting.
    • Ken L. February 1, 2016 at 12:29 am
      David, yes the enhanced tracking feature is Smart Track that can detect my "activities" and logs it like Cardio or Walking. I do have this on my Charge HR too.
  • Deidra January 26, 2016 at 5:02 pm
    Great read! I'm sticking with my Surge and true about new not equaling better, as an avid runner GPS is mandatory.
    • Ken L. February 1, 2016 at 12:22 am
      Deidra, agree. It's ok to stick with your Surge.
  • Todd January 26, 2016 at 4:47 pm
    Great Read. I love my surge for knowing my exact distance running(GPS), being able to check notifications, or change a music track without getting my phone out. I would like the new Blaze because of the newer functions. Would they also possibly work together through the Fitbit app(Adding a Device & Combining Stats) if I were to wear one or the other throughout the day? Not just confining myself to the newer Blaze in a day.
    • Daryl July 22, 2016 at 5:11 pm
      you can check notifications on the blaze and even get calendar notifications as well. You can even control music on the blaze. If you are carrying your phone for music, the blaze will piggy off the phone gps and you have a setup just as good if not better than the surge.
      • Ken L. July 28, 2016 at 5:37 am
        Thanks for your input, Daryl. Love my Blaze all around.
  • Jeannine LaRue January 25, 2016 at 6:16 pm
    Thanks for this article. I was going to order the Blaze but couldn't convince myself it was an upgrade to my Surge. Having read this article, I definitely would order the Blaze had I not recently purchased the Surge. But, seeing it's pretty much the same equipment with a little difference here and there...and cheaper...I'll forgo the expense until an upgraded product comes out.
    • Ken L. February 1, 2016 at 12:24 am
      Jeannine, wait and see if you really need this upgrade. It wish it has water-proof feature; that's all I need.
  • katy beth January 13, 2016 at 9:01 pm
    hey there! thank you for the great article, it really helped me decide to keep my surge. ps i love it! i would love to connect with you about writing an article or providing pictures in the future for other articles! please contact me through email or by replying to my instagram picture. thanks!
    • Ken L. January 17, 2016 at 2:59 am
      Katy, we love to have your article contribution. Stay in touch!
  • Will K January 12, 2016 at 3:43 pm
    the fitbit surge is touchscreen
  • Rilet January 12, 2016 at 12:55 pm
    Fitbit surge is touchscreen I know because I have one!
    • Ken L. January 24, 2016 at 2:06 am
      Thanks Rilet! I corrected it in the table.

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