Fitbit Versa 4 vs. Fitbit Versa 3: All the key differences between the two smartwatches
Newer may not be better for every type of user
If you’re looking to choose between Fitbit Versa 4 and Fitbit Versa 3, you have a bit of a tricky decision on your hands.
This head-to-head doesn’t represent the typical choice between two older-generation models. Google and Fitbit have changed the make-up of this smartwatch line relatively drastically between these two, and that means there are very distinct pros and cons to each model.
Luckily for those hunting down the key differences, we’ve tested both thoroughly over months and can deliver our hands-on experience of everything that’s changed—as well as a few things that have remained the same.
- Read our comparison of Fitbit Versa 4 vs. Sense 2
- Check out the best smartwatches in 2026
Fitbit Versa 4 vs. Versa 3
Versa 4 and Versa 3 are both incredibly similar and different—and which is the better pick for you really depends on what kind of user you are.
If you already know you’re looking for a watch with legacy Fitbit OS features such as third-party apps and broader smartwatch functionality, you have no real option but to plump for Versa 3.
Unless these services and features mean something to you, though, Versa 4 remains the stronger fitness-focused option. It has a slimmer design, more exercise modes, and support for Google Maps.
Should you upgrade?
If you already have Fitbit Versa 3, we would not recommend upgrading to Versa 4.
The lack of third-party support and the fact there are no meaningful improvements elsewhere make it a difficult device to recommend to existing Fitbit smartwatch owners.
Apps and smart features
This is the biggest point of comparison between Versa 4 and Versa 3, and, as we’ve highlighted above, will likely sway which is the better fit for your needs.
While third-party app and watch face support on Versa 3 was never especially extensive, it does offer access to Fitbit’s legacy app gallery, including Strava. The ecosystem has stopped growing, but the existing apps and watch faces remain available.
Versa 4 takes a different approach—it doesn’t give you anything of the sort, but supports both Google Maps and Google Wallet. To be honest, that’s a limitation of Fitbit’s software platform rather than its hardware.
Prices compared
Versa 3 is now over six years old, launching in 2020, whereas Versa 4 was released in September of 2022. As of now, both smartwatches are at very similar price ranges, so in this category, there’s not much to compare.
We would also note that both are frequently heavily discounted, so finding them cheaper than the above rate isn’t too difficult. At the RRP, Versa 3 offers better value, but neither sits in what we would describe as anything more than decent value for money.
Design and comfort
Though the app situation is certainly a drawback for Versa 4, the minimal design changes Fitbit made are most welcome.
Though this pair looks very similar at first glance, the newer model reintroduces a side button, making navigation around the device much simpler.
It’s a much nicer experience than what’s offered on Versa 3, which instead relies on a capacitive touch area built into the side of the case.
Aside from this, and the fact that Versa 4 is slightly thinner and lighter, there’s not really much to speak of. And that’s no bad thing—we still think the look of the Versa is strong. With the band attachment mechanism remaining the same, it’s also easy for existing Versa 3 owners to reuse their bands if they decide to upgrade.
Fitness tracking
Not much has changed on the tracking front, with the same array of sensors and tracked metrics being registered from both devices.
The real improvement Versa 4 offers is the 20 exercise modes, allowing users to track the likes of HIIT, dancing, and CrossFit workouts. This doubles the number of exercise profiles you’ll receive on Versa 3, which is limited to 20.
Battery life
The battery life isn’t different between these models, but that’s not something to be concerned about.
Whichever you choose, you’re getting a device that can last around a week in full use—and that’s much more than many other, more expensive smartwatches out there.
During testing for both, we found the daily drop-off to be around 10–15%. If you include tracked GPS exercise for about an hour, this alone will also shave off around 10%.
The charging situation is also positive, and you can get over a day of use from just 15 minutes on the cradle.
