Fitbit Battery: What you should know

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The Fitbit battery is critical to enjoying the benefits of a smartwatch or fitness tracker. Battery power has increased in years, and the Fitbit Charge 5, despite its plethora of features and sensors, will last up to six days of usage without the need for a charge.

In this article, we will aim at answering the questions you may have about how to make the most of your Fitbit Smartwatch while preserving its battery and your overall safety. 

The recent recall of the Fitbit Ionic due to an overheating battery may have raised concern. Still, as we will see, Li-Ion Batteries have come a long way and are now safe, long-lasting, and powerful enough to let you enjoy your Fitbit device for numerous years.

How many years does a Fitbit battery last?

Like all other types of batteries, Fitbit batteries are designed to last for a set number of charging cycles before they need to be changed. As a result, their energy storage capacity declines gradually due to the charging and discharging that they undergo.

Batteries will lose their ability to store energy after a specific number of charging cycles have been completed. When this occurs, it is considered that the batteries are no longer functional.

On average, a Fitbit battery will last 2-3 years of regular usage.

How can I extend the Fitbit battery life?

When it comes to getting the most out of your Fitbit device’s battery life, consider these recommendations from Fitbit consumers who have been validated and tested.

  • Charge a Fitbit device at temperatures below 32 degrees Fahrenheit, and above 113 degrees Fahrenheit should never be attempted at these temperatures. It will accelerate the rate at which the batteries discharge themselves.
  • Overcharging any Fitbit device, regardless of its type, is not recommended. It is essential to understand that lithium-ion batteries are not tolerant of being overcharged.
  • Maintain a comfortable viewing distance between you and the screen while using a device with screen brightness adjustment. The brightness of the screen has a considerable impact on battery life.
  • Fitbit trackers and watches should be recharged at least once every six months for trackers and at least once a year for watches, according to Fitbit. Its purpose is to guarantee that the battery is constantly tested and maintained.

Can a battery be replaced in a Fitbit?

Even though it is technically possible, it is not advisable to replace the Fitbit battery yourself. Not only will it void the warranty, but it could potentially lead to accidents.

We do not recommend you try to change it yourself. After several years of use, it is more advisable to buy a new model. Then, you will not regret it and will benefit from the latest technology regarding sensors, hardware, and software. 

Why is my Fitbit not holding a charge?

As we mentioned, Fitbit devices are designed to hold around two years or use and charge cycles. 

If your Fitbit is draining abnormally fast and is not holding the charge, we recommend that you read our article on preserving your Fitbit device’s battery life. Simple tricks such as switching the built-in GPS, reducing the screen brightness, or not monitoring your heart rate continuously can make a huge difference.

If your Fitbit watch or fitness tracker is still under warranty, we recommend that you contact Fitbit support. The issue may be linked to the hardware, and Fitbit is usually known for taking care of its customers and sending replacement products if something is wrong.

 Are Fitbit batteries Dangerous?

On March 2nd, following a recall notice from the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSP), Fitbit recalled more than 1.5 million Fitbit Ionic devices with the model number FB503 due to an overheating battery and the potential risk of burns. 

According to a study released today by the Consumer Product Safety Commission, at least 115 people in the United States — and 59 people worldwide — have reported an overheated battery on the watch. According to the statistics, in addition to the 118 burn complaints, there have been two reports of third-degree burns and four instances of second-degree burns.

This voluntary recall of the Fitbit Ionic Smartwatch can raise the question of the safety of the Fitbit Battery. However, the issue only impacts less than 0.01% of units sold when put in perspective. 

Like any equipment powered by Li-Ion batteries, some overheating issues may appear. For example, we all remember the Galaxy Note 7 batteries catching fire in 2017. 

Overall, when used as specified, Fitbit batteries are no more dangerous than your cell phone but as always, be careful when using a battery-powered device.