Enlarge (credit: Valentina Palladino)

Let’s start with the Charge 2: its biggest physical improvement is the 1.5-inch display that replaces the Charge HR’s small, narrow screen. It’s like a wider version of the Fitbit Alta’s display, finally big enough to show the time at the top and tap-to-scroll stats beneath it. Those stats include steps, heart rate, active time, and more. The Charge 2’s bands are interchangeable, so you can swap the silicone, active band for more fashionable leather and jewelry-like bands. However, since the Charge 2 is just a wider version of the Alta, its overall attractiveness is in the eye of the beholder.

The Charge 2 has new software and tracking features that the Charge HR doesn’t have. Its connected GPS lets it pair with your smartphone’s GPS to map running routes and get better distance calculations, while its interval workout mode lets you to customize routines that alternate bursts of intense exercise with periods of low-intensity activity. The Charge 2 also has reminders to move, while calling, texting, calendar alerts, and activity profiles are accessible from the band’s display. These profiles let you quickly track your most-completed exercises, like running, walking, biking, Pilates, and more. You decide which appear on the band and which don’t.