Fitbit just released its answer to Apple Watch, the Blaze. The smartwatch, which was released at CES today, offers the best of Fitbit devices with a more fashionable design. It can track the wearer’s heart rate, caloric burn, steps taken, sleep patterns and a number of other fitness stats and relay it all to your smartphone for easy access and storage. The only thing it doesn’t do is support apps—which could be the reason that immediately following Fitbit’s announcement, stock fell by 18.35 percent, hitting an all-time low.
The Blaze is not Fitbit’s first smartwatch (that title belongs to the Surge, a favorite of President Obama), but it’s the first to have the look of a real wearable. The bands are customizable, the screen is in full color, and it can push calendar appointments, receive phone and text notifications to keep you connected. Unlike a traditional smartwatch you can’t check your email, post to Facebook or browse Instagram during your walk, but with its five-day battery life and fitness-focused programs it could give Apple a run for its money when it comes to winning over the more dedicated athlete.
The watch will be available for pre-order on January 6 (with a global release in March) and will run buyers $200, with additional straps and accessories priced from $30 to $130. As with their classic bands, the watch will soon include additional add-ons from artists and designers like Tory Burch. With extra equipment it starts to enter into the price range of the Apple Watch Sport, and while Apple might be great for the occasional jogger or casual runner, the Fitbit Blaze may be the better choice for the more fitness-minded buyer.
