Fitbit setup: How to use the app and start using your Fitbit

Setting up your new Fitbit – be it a new Versa, Inspire HR or Charge 3 – is the first thing you'll do when you get it out of the box.

It should all be fairly straightforward to achieve, whether you're new to Fitbit, trying to set up a Fitbit without a phone or replacing an old Fitbit with a new one.

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Read on below for full instructions on how to set up a Fitbit, adding a second device and setting up through a Mac or Windows PC.

How to set up a Fitbit

You're going to need a compatible iPhone, Android smartphone or a computer – which you can double check here. Then, head to the Google Play Store, Apple App Store or Microsoft Store (for Windows phones or tablets) and search for the Fitbit app, before downloading it to your device.

Once that's sorted, you're going to need to sign up, and then you'll be prompted to let Fitbit know which device you want to set up.

Quick Fitbit setup

1. Download the Fitbit app, and tap 'Join Fitbit' once complete.

2. Select the tracker that you have and tap 'Set Up'.

3. Follow the steps and keep the Fitbit close to your device.

Note: For the Ionic and Versa, setup won't be fully complete until you connect your Fitbit to Wi-Fi. This allows for quicker updates, music support and app downloads.

Set up Fitbit on a computer

If you want to set up your Fitbit without a phone or tablet, you're going to need to set up your device through Fitbit Connect, a free software app that allows the tracker to work without the need for a phone.

However, note that if your computer isn't Bluetooth-enabled, you're going to have to use the syncing dongle, which is available from the Fitbit Store.

In order to get set up on Fitbit Connect, follow these instructions:

1. Head to the Fitbit Setup page, then scroll down to the Don't have a mobile device? section.
2. Download the application for your Mac or Windows computer.
3. After the download completes, click the downloaded file to start the installation.
4. Once installation is complete, choose Set up a New Fitbit Device.
5. Follow the on-screen instructions to create a Fitbit account and connect your device.

How to add a second Fitbit device or replacement device

Once you've got one Fitbit device, it's likely you won't be able to stop. Like a ravenous fitness tracking monster, you won't be happy until you're kitted out with the whole Fitbit ecosystem. But, before you go berserk, you need to know how to add a second Fitbit, or maybe even replace your old device.

Unfortunately, you can't have more than one device type connected and syncing to the same Fitbit account at any one time. So, if you have a Fitbit Charge 3 and Ionic, for example, you can't run them concurrently. The only exceptions to this rule are the company's Aria smart scales and Ace kids fitness trackers.

To add or replace a device through the Fitbit app for iOS or Android:

1. Head to the Fitbit app on your smartphone.
2. Tap through to the Account icon in the top left corner.
3. Hit Set Up a Device.
4. Choose your new device and follow the setup instructions.

To add or replace a device through Fitbit Connect:

1. Click the Fitbit Connect icon on your Mac or Windows computer.
2. Open the Main Menu.
3. Click Set up a new Fitbit device.
4. Choose Existing User and log in to your Fitbit account.
5. Select your device and follow the setup instructions.