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Fitbit Versa Lite versus Fitbit Versa: How are they different?

Image used with permission by copyright holder

Fitbit expanded its fitness tracker lineup for 2019 with the introduction of the new $159 Versa Lite, an affordable version of the Versa smartwatch from 2018. The two watches will be sold alongside each other — the Versa is one of Fitbit’s most successful smartwatches to date after all, thanks to its robust features and relatively low $200 price tag.

The company took the best of the Versa and bundled it into the new Versa Lite, while also removing just a few features. That means you get an even more affordable, entry-level smartwatch. If you’re choosing between the two, how does the Versa Lite differ from the Versa? We break it down.

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What’s the same?

Versa Lite Image used with permission by copyright holder

Externally, the Fitbit Versa Lite and the original Versa look very similar. Both have a rectangular watch face, rounded bezel, and replaceable watch bands. Feature-wise, the Versa Lite keeps the core features of the original Versa including a touchscreen interface, 5 ATM water-resistance, third-party apps, and connected GPS. Both devices also have an optical heart rate sensor, activity tracking, sleep tracking, notifications, and even female health tracking.

What’s different?

On the outside, the most significant difference between the two watches is the button layout. The original Versa uses three buttons along with a touchscreen to navigate through the menu system, while the Versa Lite only has one button. In terms of hardware, the Versa Lite is lacking both the barometric altimeter found in the original Versa,\ and the Fitbit Pay contactless payment system, the latter of which is included on the more expensive Versa Special Edition. Fitbit also stripped out the stairs tracking, swim lap counting, Fitbit Coach guided workouts, music storage, and Wi-Fi connectivity, which was used primarily for music transfer.

Specs comparison

Fitbit Versa Lite
Fitbit Versa
Display size 34 mm (1.34 inches) 34 mm (1.34 inches)
Resolution
300 × 300 pixels
300 × 300 pixels
Touchscreen Yes Yes
Color display Yes Yes
Wireless interface Bluetooth LE Bluetooth LE, Wi-Fi, NFC
Weight 38 Grams 38 Grams
Depth 11.2mm 11.2mm
Interchangeable strap Yes Yes
3-axis accelerometer Yes Yes
3-axis gyroscope No Yes
Altimeter No Yes
Ambient light sensor Yes Yes
Optical heart rate Yes Yes
GPS No (connected GPS) No (connected GPS)
SpO2 Yes Yes
Navigation Yes Yes
Waterproof Yes – 50m Yes – 50m
Battery life 4-plus days 4-plus days
Stair Counting No Yes
Swim Lap Counting No Yes
Guided Workouts No Yes
Music Storage No Yes
Price $160 $200
Availability  Currently on pre-sale, will be available soon. Now
Review Coming Soon Full Review

Versa Lite: Who is it for?

The Versa Lite may be close to the Versa on paper, but Fitbit’s latest smartwatch targets a completely new type of user. It is designed for consumers who are hesitant to purchase a smartwatch because of the cost or the complexity of the device. To fill this niche, Fitbit lowered the price on the Versa Lite and simplified the fitness device so it will be accessible for everyone.

The Versa Lite is available now for pre-order with a price tag of $160. Color choices include white, lilac, mulberry, and marina blue.

Kelly Hodgkins
Kelly's been writing online for ten years, working at Gizmodo, TUAW, and BGR among others. Living near the White Mountains of…
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