FITBIT VERSA 3 - Watch before you buy! *UNSPONSORED REVIEW* (you might want to wait!)

[@ReeWrayOutdoors]

Versa 3 is now on sale for $200!: amzn.to/2V1gCdv and the Versa 2 is only $130 for a limited time: amzn.to/33bTXzK Awesome deal, especially on the Versa 2!! That's a lot of watch for $130...

[@ReeWrayOutdoors]

@J L I had decided to go with the TicWatch Pro 3, but decided to go back to the Versa 2 after I saw this deal. Haha should be here Friday!

[@zpotatoes7923]

@@ReeWrayOutdoors Hi, really useful review. I've heard they have now removed the ability to upload music to the Versa 2 as well, after recent software update - is that the case? Also a bit of a deal-breaker for me, and combined with the figity button, it seems like Versa 2 is a better overall purchase.

[@ReeWrayOutdoors]

@@zpotatoes7923 I'll have to check to see if I'm running the latest firmware on mine, but I loaded a couple new tunes to it last night....I'll follow-up after I confirm.

[@ReeWrayOutdoors]

@@zpotatoes7923 i appear to be running the latest Versa 2 firmware, 35.71.6.19, and I'm still able to load and access personal music. For what it's worth....

[@zpotatoes7923]

@@ReeWrayOutdoors Thanks, that's really good to know! The only thing I'm now hesitating on with the Versa 2 is concerns about accuracy. Have you noticed any difference in accuracy with heart rate, sleep tracking etc compared to other products? Also - does the Versa 2 now have spo2 tracker? Thanks for all the advice so far.

[@MichaelSuperbacker]

14:04 Can I get an update? Did Fitbit fix this??? I will no longer buy Fitbit, if I have to pay $10 a month for music.

[@ReeWrayOutdoors]

So far as I'm aware, they have not. I went back to the Versa 2 with no regrets.

[@MichaelSuperbacker]

ReeWray Outdoors wow! Thanks for the info! On sale now for $129! I think I will get the Versa 2 thanks!

[@joeyproehl2372]

I can't believe that none of these reviews that the reviewers have not caught on to the fact that it counts steps as you drive which is a terrible flaw. I drive a truck and there's no way I do almost 20,000 steps a day driving a truck.

[@nattieriri]

wow! my fitbit has never countet steps while im in a car or bus or train. 🤷🏻‍♀️

[@dawnkinsella8729]

A semi? If so, I wonder if it's counting steps as you change gears.

[@kinsleyrealestate225]

It doesn't...that isn't normal. I suggest you change your "dominant" hand to the one not shifting gears as it does track arm movement back and forth

[@DEEDEEEason]

Yeah, that reminds me of the fir apps on my phone that tracked steps while driving. Annoying

[@davisfamily9510]

If it’s a bumpy terrain, it will set it off. It works by motion so if you clap or put your arm up and down and jolt it, it thinks it’s a step.

[@tradermario7297]

This is a quality honest review

[@stevenjonas1]

The whole point of getting a smart watch with a gps is to not need to have your phone! If you can't listen to your own music, then you need to bring your phone. If you bring your phone you might as well use the GPS in your phone. There's no point in getting the Versa 3 right now. There have not been any bounds or leaps in tech since the Versa 2. Buy the Versa 2 and have peace of mind.

[@ReeWrayOutdoors]

Yep. Once I realized that I really didn't need the GPS on the watch, going back to the Versa 2 was a no-brainer. It just took me some time to figure out that I personally didn't really need the GPS on the watch. Haha

[@missyleng]

But just to have an easier charge and a quicker charge is a game changer, brighter bit bigger screen too the other stuff is gravy I’m glad I switched

[@klijhachamberlain7654]

I am staying with my versa 2… I am good!!lol

[@adreanweldele4848]

Love the review. My fitbit charge 2 that I had for several years finally died and now I am shopping for a new one. I love the review you gave and am wanting a water proof watch this time. I love all the features that the versa 3 offers. I have never had music on my fitbits so the music isn't a big deal for me and I already pay the fitbit premium. I love tracking my sleep and I think I would enjoy the special alarm feature. Thank you for the awesome review

[@arianeblais222]

Are you saying the versa 2 is not as waterproof as they claim? I am considering buying it but I swim about once a weak and I want that tracked! Please let me know your experience! Thanks 😊

[@brandonsudduth7434]

U can buy mine 😂😂😂

[@natalie4070]

That’ doesn’t bother me I’m not here to use my Fitbit watch to listen to music after all I bought it for the fitness aspect side to track my exercise and sleep and other things that looks great on the versa 3! it’s a big upgrade for me I had the Fitbit charge 2 for 4 years it lasted me so I’m excited for this upgrade!

[@MugiwaraNoShanks]

Same here

[@kiranvelamati2791]

Hi Natalie, Did you buy the versa 3? If yes can you please give a quick review. I'm planning to buy one for my dad. Thank you.

[@jamesadams8]

Thank you! This is the most honest, unbiased review I have ever seen for the Versa 3

[@Sipu79]

I've never used the music storage feature once on my Versa watch i've had for 2 years. Still i can see how some people would love it.

[@oddsnends3090]

Same here. I have never used it and have no desire to do so. I am considering buying the Versa 3. My daughter chose Versa 2for this very reason though, because she has to have her music :)

[@sunflowerbadger]

Great review. On a personal note, as someone with hearing impairment, I sometimes found the backing music a bit distracting, due to how loud it got compared to your speech.

[@ReeWrayOutdoors]

Yeah, sorry about that. I've had several people mention that, and I rarely use music now in my videos...at least not whan I'm also talking.

[@mrk-6367]

Thanks for the cool review! For me the music could have been quieter. Esecially at 10:10 it was very loud :/ Keep up the great work!

[@ReeWrayOutdoors]

Noted! I do appreciate the feedback. A work in progress...

[@jmackultra]

I don't care about that particular feature because I always bring my phone. Still an excellent and reasonable review

[@Miguel_Pratz]

So sad about the lack of spotify offline. Would be a day 1, must buy if it had that feature. 😔 Great review!

[@kitt214th]

Just curious if there are similar watches with Spotify support? Does the series 2 support it ? If so how? Thanks

[@marklouieadame]

@@kitt214th exactly asking too much for a watch lol...

[@BrianPW1]

Excellent review BUT everyone should take note that 'one size does not fit all'. I have been with Fitbit for 5 years and bought the Surge (which has built in GPS and the appearance of a fitness device (as opposed to the swanky AppleWatch type design). Still have it as a backup and it worked perfectly well for me with walking to the gym and logging workouts etc (iPhone Fitbit app is, for me the best part of the service, with easy reading on my phone, iPad and iMac dashboard. 6 months free 'Premium' on new purchase, £7.99 a month thereafter). This is where my 'requirements' differ from yours (and maybe I am the one in a thousand) = I have NEVER played music while walking/running/working out at the gym on any device, it would distract from my concentration. I purchased the first Versa (no GPS) because I wanted the 'look' of a normal watch but with the built in functionality of a 'sports watch' (Surge) bought the Versa 2 (because of GPS via connection to iPhone). I always listen/watch other people's evaluation/views on products I am thinking of buying. The only issue I have is whether to pay the extra £100 for the Sense (£299) as opposed to the Fitbit 3. Given the reasonable return window, and the extra sensors installed in the Sense I will probably buy that model (I have hypertension and as health and fitness go hand in hand I prefer the holistic approach). What I do like the look of : Easy connector straps, no fiddling with old connections. Fast charge battery. Integral upgraded system architecture for future hard and software upgrades, especially for health readings, skin temp, heart rate, oximeter and so on. I will wait a few more weeks to see other reviews and if there are any announcements relating to the very reasonable and easy performance requirements that you site. First time I have watched your channel and delighted to view a very sensible, non jingoistic appraisal. In due course I may return after I have purchased the Sense and update this entry. Many thanks. Brian

[@ReeWrayOutdoors]

No argument here. As I said at the end of the review, I sill think the Versa 3 is the best overall value in terms of features/price. It's just that, for me, local music storage (without a paid suscription) is something that I'm not willing to give up. In fact, if I had to choose between music and GPS, I'd choose music every time. And I'd rather have the Versa 2 than the Versa 3 - as a bonus, the Versa 2's mechanical button is also more user-friendly than the new pressure point button of the Versa 3 / Sense. (My personal priorities, obviously, but I do have to admit that I've grown less fond of the new non-button over time). Anyway, thank you so much for adding your thoughtful commentary to the conversation! Good stuff!

[@SamerMatti]

Garmin is probably a better value if you're an athlete and don't care about distractions because it let's you pair external sensors (like a chest strap, which is far more reliable than the optical HR sensor on the watch for working out or HIIT)... They also don't make u pay monthly to view ur stats and the battery lasts just as long as Fitbit. Vivoactive 3/4 or venu sq (w/ or w/o music based on what u need) is probably best value. Many google wear os watches function like a toy that looks nice but is slow, buggy n its more of a lifestyle watch than a true fitness device with terrible battery life.

[@robert1975e]

Thanks for pointing out that they removed the "my music" option.

[@toddsalvati5694]

I love mine, my primary use is to track my runs, and the GPS is spot on, and since I always have my phone with me, listening to music is simple. I don't need bells and whistles,the Versa 3 does exactly what I need it to do. I have a fitness band, but wanted a watch for all day use.

[@sianbinnie4896]

Thanks for this, I was considering getting the new versa 3 but now that I know about the inability to load my own music I think ill wait to see what Fitbit says or ill go for the versa 2.

[@SlyAceZeta]

Thank you for the very honest review! I tend to have my phone on me at all times, so I don't anticipate using any of Fitbit's music features so that issue isn't a dealbreaker for me. I can definitely see its use case though and why it's such an issue, so hopefully they'll announce something to restore that feature. Thank you again!

[@willbillyheaven]

I have the Versa 2 and I typically charge my watch while I'm taking a shower and that seems to do the trick. The lowest I've ever allowed the battery to get is about 20% and that does take a couple of hours to charge back to 100%. I've thought about upgrading to the Versa 3, but I honestly don't see enough added features to justify the expense. The GPS part would be nice, but I always have my phone with me anyway so it isn't that big of a deal to me. The band is another problem for me. I like that the Versa 2 can use a regular watchband if you want it to, and you aren't locked into a Fitbit band.

[@matija92]

I pre-ordered the Versa 3, but in the end I realized I don't like the style, so I cancelled the order and got Garmin Venu. Looks like it was the right decision

[@thnkfl4mylf]

I had no idea about the Versa 2 having the music feature. I bought the Sense after the lousy battery life of the iWatch. Had I known about the Versa 2 music download option I would have bought that instead. I agree with your decision to send it back, I would.

[@sandraradolovic-coffey9147]

CHERIE, how are you liking your Sence. Do you find that your workout calories are off, or is the Fitbit starting a workout on it's own.

[@thnkfl4mylf]

@@sandraradolovic-coffey9147 I do like my Sense. I don't use the calorie option. I use it for the hourly reminders to move, steps, meditation, and the EKG. I like that it automatically "senses" what kind of activity I am doing as well. I wish the hourly "reminder" was a stronger vibration because sometimes I don't feel it. After seeing this video, I realized that I could download my Pandora stations which is convenient. I do pay for no ad Pandora. I did notice that the connection was not as strong and broke up some when I didn't have my iPhone near.

[@donitabrannon1861]

I had a FB Versa which I used to track my swimming laps & I was able to pause it between sets. I "upgraded" to the Versa 2 & it had neither of these features. during the SWIM exercise program it was merely a stopwatch.... I returned the Versa 2 & am trying to decide between the Versa 3 & the Sense....

[@MrAntonioTech]

I bought Versa 3 today and once I connected it to the Wi-Fi, it did an update twice. I should have tested if the feature was there before the updates but could not as I was not able to use without the forced update. I totally agree with the review - top notch smart watch except for the removed feature to upload my own mp3s. This is really bad and I might return it as well!

[@ReeWrayOutdoors]

Yeah, I experienced the forced update as well. Took quite a bit longer than I would've guessed it would take. Regardless, I think it's extremely unlikely that the My Music function was there even before the updates since this appears to be stemming from a commercial agreement between Fitbit and Deezer/Pandora. :-/

[@Studs_Studio]

To turn off the GPS I think you go on for example walking and then swipe up and there will be settings. I saw this on another video.

[@RyanAlca]

I pre ordered my wife one because she loves Fitbit and the app. I was stoked to get one as well, or perhaps one of the new Apple watches. Glad I waited for the reviews. One of the things you didn’t mention was you can’t actually make calls on the device, only accept or decline them, then take the call on your phone. Seems like a waste of a mic and I feel like that should have had an asterisk by it in the features description. Sure made it look like you could make calls from the device...Silver lining, it made my choice easier. I’ll take an Apple Watch and charge it for an hour before bed when I’m watching tv or eating dinner.

[@ReeWrayOutdoors]

Yeah. Always good to see what the complaints are before you take the plunge. I do like Fitbit's software. They've been doing this category longer than about anyone so their app is pretty mature at this point. But since you've got an iPhone, I don't think you can go wrong with the Apple Watch. Thx for taking the time to watch and comment!

[@RyanAlca]

ReeWray Outdoors great video, well paced and clear, easy to understand Definitely helped make my decision. But yes, that’s the bummer. I’ve had fitbit’s in the past and the app is so good. It almost makes me want to forgive the call thing and embrace the health part. I’m conflicted a little still, not going to lie.

[@anionics]

Being able to make calls on the watch is coming in a future update

[@ReeWrayOutdoors]

@@anionics Good to know! Hopefully they'll also put personal music storage back in too. I appreciate you contributing to the conversation!

[@arturandrosov7276]

The review helped a lot. Just ordered Versa 2, but hesitated that would better made it to Versa 3. Now I am sure the choice was right

[@lolatheregularperson9194]

Lol you made the wrong choice. That’s sucks probably

[@klijhachamberlain7654]

I ordered a versa to myself in the year of 2022 I’m not letting go of my versa two

[@rftrft1657]

it’s July 2021, i purchased the versa 3 and you still need to pay for Pandora, etc. for music!

[@ranianoor]

does it work if you are already paying for spotify premium?

[@judycochran4605]

I see your video was made in Sept of 2020 and is now late June of 22 so I am hoping all the things you hoped they would add have been added. My Versa 2 literally came apart in the pool yesterday so looking to get another one asap. Thank you so very much for this very informative review. After watching I believe I will go to the Versa 3 although I did love my 2 and have had it for several years. Thank you again. Nice work

[@ReeWrayOutdoors]

I don't think they have (or ever will) re-enable the local music option on the Versa 3. But if that's not a big deal for you, it's a solid device! I do prefer my Galaxy Watch 4 now though. Despite the lower battery life, I find the notifications to be a much better experience than with Fitbit OS. But that may change with Google now involved.

[@mickeyflowers]

All good to know. Just got a Versa 3, but it's going back......this thing never wakes up. Holy crap! How hard do I need to swipe or tap this thing!!!! I'm done with Fitbit. Bought the Versa 3 to upgrade from the crummy tapping on the Charge 2 that I have, but it is waaaaayyyy better than the Versa 3.

[@ReeWrayOutdoors]

Maybe you got a bad one? Other than the music issue, my biggest complaint was the non-button. I went back to the Versa 2 and am very happy with it. If you have access to a Costco, you can pick up a Versa 2 super expensive now.

[@Drrck11]

I'm glad I'm not the only one who noticed this problem. I warned other vloggers about this flaw. I'm keeping my Ionic now.

[@ChrisBailey]

I believe the reason why it doesn't allow you to use the phone GPS is because it factors in more data in the maps which require more on-device processing.

[@Hampers75]

Thanks for the review. That's a bummer about the music. Must have entered some sort of deal with the providers to force paying for premium packages

[@shadowphantom2567]

I doubt if the music storage is going to change anytime soon. I wonder if Fitbit entered into a contract with Deezer and Pandora to offer their music services for storage exclusively, at least for a certain period of time.

[@ReeWrayOutdoors]

Yeah, that's what I'm thinking is going on. :-/

[@peterfitzsimmons1352]

returning my versa 3 back to fitbit this week because I cannot have my own music on it.. Ive owned it for about 3 weeks now and the deal breaker is no music on board. My Iconic was fantastic, much much better then the versa. great review

[@watchandlol]

Yeah, everything about the watch is great apart from the one major issue of not being able to load my own music that I already own. There is no mention on the website of this functionality being removed. It's as though fitbit are getting a payment for every new member that joins. I'll be returning mine before the returns date.

[@ReeWrayOutdoors]

I actually ended up going BACK to the Versa 2. GPS when I really need it and have my phone with me...local music storage for when I don't...oh, and no annoying pressure-sensitive mode button. :P. The Prime Days sale price ultimately made the decision for me...

[@patriciakavanagh8510]

Great review - one of the best I've seen on any product... after watching I did still order the versa 3 (as my phone is pretty much nearly always with me) so the deal breaker wasn't that big to me. Still, will be good to see if FITBIT upgrade this and change that music/phone issue you covered. Thanks so much!

[@ReeWrayOutdoors]

I appreciate the kind words, Patricia! I think you'll be happy with the Versa 3. Despite its few shortcomings it is a good piece of tech for the price, I think. But I would hold out any hope that they'll add (unpaid) offline music back since the current situation is almost certainly a contractual arrangement they have with Pandora and Deezer. Let us know how the Versa 3 works out for you!

[@manuelandradeantonio8822]

@@ReeWrayOutdoors l

[@mmjc14]

Oo​@@manuelandradeantonio8822

[@keoganlarademusic918]

Great review! First time coming across this channel, although I did find the video a bit long, it was good, straightforward, and simple.

[@ursula1893]

To me it didn't matter that the review was a bit long because he went in-depth with it. What good is 5 minute video without real substance? Besides....I wanted to confirm that I wasn't the only person out here that wasn't singing Versa 3s praises and giving undue accolades. There's one other thing that I forgot to mentionin my reply to this review: customer service. My experience was more than disappointing. I emailed support and was directed to the Facebook page where I would find links (not people) to address my problems. Really? Then what is rhe purpose of Fitbit's customer service? I never could find the answers to my questions. When I emailed them a second time I was told I should look at the Fitbit community pages and post my questions there. Hmmm....not only am I being rerouted again but this time I have to find the correct forums (yes ...multiples) for my questions / concerns. You can't just post anywhere nilly willy because the "moderators" of said forums take your head off (virtually speaking) if you post incorrectly (the wrong forum). Seriously? Who's got THAT much free time on their hands??? Meanwhile - I kissed my Versa 3 goodbye and hello Galaxy 4. I couldn't be happier! 😂😂😂😂😂

[@aatiyahreid3924]

Great review. I’ve been with Fitbit for 8 years now. I was so excited to see this new watch I’ve been searching for an upgrade and I really don’t want to leave fit but I’m so disappointed with all the negative feed back that I’m thinking about ordering Garmin Vivoactive 4... I’ve been doing some research for a few months now.

[@ReeWrayOutdoors]

Yeah I find myself ready to send the Versa 3 back any day now. I've been researching the TicWatch 3 Pro, the Garmin Venu SQ, and the Samsung Active 2 as possible replacements.

[@a.jpurple6515]

I love my Garmin vivoactive4. It’s a not rly smart watch, but for health features, i find it so reliable

[@lw5217]

Samsung Active Watch 2 is completely useless as a sports smartwatch as it does not count calories based on the heart rate...

[@aatiyahreid3924]

Jewel vilela that is awesome. I’m going to purchase it today. I’m feeling confident about my purchase. Thank you

[@souljaboi4021]

just make the switch almost anything is better at this point

[@antiduckable]

Wow! I was waiting for the OnePlus Watch, but decided on this watch instead, but If I hadn't have watched this review i would've gone out and bought the watch next payday, confident that I would be able to store my favourite audio books etc... on the watch - you expect to be able to store whatever you want on the storage that you've paid for. Guess I'm going to keep looking lol. Thank you for the review.

[@oalre]

Thanks so much! I bought the fitbit versa 2 a couple of days ago, but have been seriously considering upgrading to the Versa 3, until now! I've started running and use Strava now, so the main reason for wanting an upgrade is to track my runs without having to carry my phone! But I use the music app on my fitbit 2 all the time! Because the Spotify app is a massive disappointment (even with the phone nearby). All I want is a smart watch with an in-built GPS for strava and track records, and downloadable music or at least Spotify without the need for your phone.

[@sshrivaas]

My problem with the Versa 3 is that it is highly inconsistent. Some days it didnt record my sleep. Some days it added 200 steps when I was sitting and watching a movie. I was forced to return it. I bought it thanks to recommendations from my friends who had Versa 2. I believe Versa 2 was not as inconsistent and far more accurate

[@ciachef32347]

Buy the 2. It's 100$ cheaper and works great. 3 has features that most people won't use..

[@loro3849]

I just got a versa 3 for one reason. It connects with my Dexcom continuous glucose monitor. My BG # and a graph shows up on the screen. Super cool.

[@ReeWrayOutdoors]

That is Cool!

[@jriffriffel1903]

Great, thorough review. Music is not an issue for me, and since I found your website AFTER I had just ordered a Versa 3, I will sleep better tonight!

[@jriffriffel1903]

BTW, I just ordered from Kohl's for $149!

[@nishantthegreat]

Such an honest on the point review !!

[@ReeWrayOutdoors]

Thanks, man! Much appreciated! :)

[@daphneblake7889]

I got my versa 3 free from Humana. Along with a Fitbit Aria air scale and many other seemingly covid-19 required suport kit items. I dont live near any major city that may possibly have a large enough bank willing to suport fitpay, and must rely upon local small town banking. So the fit-pay feature is completely unusable for me as it also does not link up to google pay or paypal. I got my versa 3 in December of 2020 and was prompted to update the firmware after installing the app and linking to my phone. I do have google assistant available to me, however it appears the same mp3 limitations exist.

[@ruthwilliams8672]

Just got the Versa 3 for christmas. Great infomation.

[@lindalewellen2296]

Excellent comparison. Hope they add Pandora, but also I've had Pandora Music almost from it's release and it's on all my other devices, so would be a deal breaker for me, too. The sleep data is also very important for me as I have borderline sleep apnea, so if there are others with this condition, Fitbitbis definitely a big 👍! Thanks for the review.

[@TheCozypillow]

I got my versa 2 back in June. Felt horrible as they announced the versa 3 shortly after. I can’t afford to upgrade to versa 3 anytime soon but I don’t think I even want to. My versa 2 still has problems syncing even when I plug it directly into my computer. The battery life on my versa 2 used to last up to 4 days when I first got it, however after a few months im lucky to get 2 days out of it. I know the vid is for versa 3 but I’m just sharing my experience. Personally I’m just gonna go with the Samsung galaxy smartwatch when I can afford it.

[@rfrancoi]

Man, that was such a great review that I clicked "Subscribe" at 50% of your video. Thank you, and keep up the great work. But my question is, "Why would you not want to take you phone with you at ALL times? What if you have an emergency and need assistance? Now a days, your phone is almost as important as your wallet"

[@ReeWrayOutdoors]

I think a lot of runners (in particular) really would prefer to leave the phone behind and go 'lite'. Of course, that's just my assumption...I could be wrong!

[@RCMama05]

I'm a busy mom and don't always have my phone on me running around the house or wherever I'm at with 4 kids..I always miss calls that could be a Dr's office or the kids school..I think I need a smart watch to make sure I don't miss important calls

[@rfrancoi]

@@RCMama05 A smart watch would be great but you cannot answer calls on them either. And unless the watch has its own radio, the phone has to be near it. One more thing to worry about forgetting.

[@BoiseTDI]

Excellent review! I especially love that you didn’t use the crutch word “like” one single time the way a lot of people do nowadays. Well done!

[@melbastar5093]

Great video. Very detailed awesome job. However, your inclusion of the background music was very distracting. It was really hard for me to listen to you with the music going. It would be awesome with just silence in the background. Just a suggestion

[@KIESVOORMIJ]

love your calm review. subbed

[@Rita-mn1th]

Impressive review! Fitbit has some nerve removing the music play! This is an upgraded watch with a MAJOR option bumped out!!

[@ReeWrayOutdoors]

Was a definite deal-breaker for me. Just got delivery on my new Galaxy Watch 4 today though, so we'll see if the new KZbin Music app for that makes offline music easy or not. Should have a review on that up in a week or so. :)

[@63off]

Why have you got the volume of the background music up so loud?

[@cutermew]

I am very upset that the music app was taken off. My versa 3 is supposed to arrive today, preordered sept 4. I chose the versa because I'd read the 2 could store music and ended up preordering the three since it was for preorder at the time. I'm looking into any ways to brute force being able to store music once it gets here. It's really ridiculous to have to pay for a streaming service. I will be sending mine back too if I cant have music on the device. What an absolute bummer.

[@ReeWrayOutdoors]

I've scrolled through the entire Apps list to see if there was a 3rd party app that could do it. No luck there. Be sure to let us know if you find a way!

[@Dude_Its_Michael]

The music problem is the deal breaker for me as well. Which is a shame because sleep tracking is my other thing I'm interested in and Fitbits are the best at it.

[@ciachef32347]

What music problem?

[@anuradhamohan92]

My versa 3 stopped working after a year . This is the second Fitbit device which had this problem 😅 I don’t know if I should switch to Apple Watch instead

[@ReeWrayOutdoors]

If you're an iPhone user, I'd definitely recomment the Apple Watch...you just can't beat their level of integration with the iPhone since they own the ecosystem.

[@betkes]

I have a couple of questions...(1) When answering calls on the Sense (or any of the newer Versas) can you speak through the watch when it's connected by bluetooth or do you still need to speak through the phone? (2) Are all the advertised "features" available without a subscription? I know there are communities and other enhancements that are only available with a premium subscription.

[@patriciocontreras3856]

Requiring subscription to a music app is a deal breaker for me as well. This is the only issue i see with this watch. I hope they do make a change, because i would love to use this watch for my everyday everything.

[@ReeWrayOutdoors]

Yeah. I've given up hope that they will re-enable offline music. If you're an android user, you might take a serious look at the TicWatch E3. Most powerful watch for the price, in my opinion: kzbin.info/www/bejne/jJm5qYeabLiFaac

[@patriciocontreras3856]

I will check it out. This will be my first smart watch, so i am looking for the best bang for my buck. Thanks

[@ReeWrayOutdoors]

@@patriciocontreras3856 I made the switch to the E3 about 3 weeks ago. I've been quite satisfied with it. Also, I'm expecting it will get the new WearOS update early next year, which will be cool, assuming it does get it.

[@ooplycrossing2744]

Hi! So Ive had The versa 1 for a long time and after 1 year it stopped working, and I noticed that there arent really videos of people saying “Fitbit versa after 2 years” or more and it makes sense!! fitbit versas die after 1 year of use and alot of people say that it’s because their warranty only lasts for about 1 year so they just die down and people wont be able to return it. Smart move by fitbit but I hope people will notice this more so we can be informed and stop giving money to fitbit that they dont even deserve because they just kill their devices after the 1 year warranty runs out. Gaslighting pretty much is what fitbit’s doing, Pls pin this comment!!

[@cmoreno12345]

Yes. Happened to me too. Sad since it was a good watch.

[@davemusicinca]

Very nice detailed review, after watching this I've decided to keep my versa 2. Even though I envy the new fitbit OS and new band mechanism, nothing much else that I need is added this time around.

[@ReeWrayOutdoors]

Good choice! After returning the Versa 2, trying out the TicWatch Pro 3, I ended up going back to the Versa 2. No regrets now...

[@hayleydavelle3922]

Versa 3 (pink) is on amazon for £159 for those who live in the UK! I purchased one tonight! I’m sure there will be a US equivalent 🤞

[@nm2064]

Got it

[@dlong7146]

Thanks you for the tip. You saved me a lot of money. Noway am I paying a couple hundred bucks on a smart watch to then have to pay 10 bucks a month forever just to get good usage out of it. Fitbit has gotten way too greedy. I'll stay with my Galaxy watch.

[@timetraveler_0]

I had Versa 2, sold and got Huawei watch GT 2. Battery life 6 days with Always On display. I'm happy with it. Didn't like that fitbit just kept pushing fitbit premium on me and would hide data collected unless I sign up.

[@chocolategirlblushing7955]

Hide data...seriously.

[@richarde1355]

Thanks for the review! Do these watches sync with iPhones?

[@pamelahill7164]

I’m with you not being able to load my own music is a deal breaker for me also

[@JustBeYouooh]

I just read the manual and it says you can use Spotify which I am already subscribed to. Why didn’t you mentioned the phone calls!

[@MikeDavis_MD]

this was really helpful. i have the versa 3 in my cart for an upgrade from my versa 1. Been researching the past 2 days. thanks for the useful comparison!

[@aahmad001]

Wirth the upgrade?

[@MikeDavis_MD]

@@aahmad001 I dont know yet. I had the versa 3 for about 2 weeks then switch to the versa2. It's a slight upgrade but nothing drastically noticeable.

[@Aqua350Lt1]

@@aahmad001 definitely worth it dude

[@Q1n9yuan]

it definitely a deal breaker if we cannot store our personal music in the Sense/Versa3 !!! What are they thinking about?!

[@emilyelizabeth5094]

That their friends at deezer and Pandora can make money 🙄🙄🙄

[@ceciliaowen7744]

Good job! Thank you for explaining all the differences. I have a Versa 2 smart watch, so far all is good.

[@nikkiw.4142]

Awesome review! Even though I will never buy another fitbit anything again my last watch was ionic that was ruined from the updates. I see they are taking another step back.....thanks for the review again none the less!!

[@oozeear]

You reckon not to get an ionic.. Coz I was planning good to get one 😢

[@nikkiw.4142]

@@oozeear If you do decide to get one, Just get it used. I'm telling you the updates are horrible and so is the customer service. When it worked it was a great watched and I was with fit bit for 6 years. and every single one I had needed to be replace. I have alot of broken Fitbits in my jewelry box. my first watch was the charger 2 and believe it or not that the only one that works after being replace three times. It was like merry go-round.

[@michellevickers841]

@@nikkiw.4142 I've had my Charge 2 HR since it came out and in the past few weeks it won't hold a charge & it won't sync anymore. I'm sad. Before that I had a few "ones" that I kept in my pocket until I lost them...lol.

[@nikkiw.4142]

@@michellevickers841 I decided to get the samsung gs r750 it does everything the ionic does plus double and it works with the Fitbit app

[@YeetusMcfeetus]

honestly, i m just waiting until they make a watch that can call and text whatever without being right next to your device

[@brendapp64]

I’d love to have a device like this also but probably won’t happen

[@edgararcega3046]

Great video. So I am here because my wife has been saying she'd love a smart watch. She always sees me using my samsung frontier watch. I told her I can get her the newer more girly samsung watch but she just wants a versa for some reason. Imo samsung watched seem slot better than versa in many ways. I mean my frontier is still dominating many newer watches that are coming out today and my frontier watch is 5 years old already. But that is another subject. Back to the versa i think il get the versa 2 for her. Seems more like her fitting since she cannot live without her phone by her side.

[@delise5133]

Love the review and the shirt Go Bearcats!!!

[@Proudmule1]

Cincy is not that good. Fraud team.

[@dermotsmyth9524]

A

[@SSS51706]

100% and go Bearcats

[@zplayz6161]

This is a great review. One of the best. Nice one 👍

[@bgoldtx]

Interestingly enough, using a connected GPS doesn't seem to preserve battery life in my experience with my Versa. It is an original versa that is 2-3 years old, so that might have something to do with it.

[@bakaichigo]

Well I'd already JUST bought my versa 2 this month, but nevertheless great review - may pick one of the 3s up for the husband, but I'm still happy with the 2! Thanks for the comprehensive review~!

[@ReeWrayOutdoors]

Yeah, me too! No regrets with the V2

[@lorijoy720]

Thank you, sir! My original versa just bit the bullet today and this has helped with researching my next watch.

[@allenvasher5358]

Thanks for the video, what ended up happening w/ did you send it back? Also I herd another KZbinr say it will not record O² levels unless you are subscribed to there monthly service? Is that true?

[@ReeWrayOutdoors]

Yep! I sent it back. I ended up using the Versa 2 for about a year and have now switched to the Galaxy Watch 4. I've been very happy with the GW4.

[@photosbymiketm2461]

It’s not wise to go out for a run or hike without your phone in the first place in case you have an emergency specially for older runners that may have a heart attack or some other medical emergency unless your out running or hiking with a dedicated LTE smartwatch that can make and receive calls onto the smartwatch. Best to never leave the house without a phone with you at all times.

[@ReeWrayOutdoors]

Fair point!

[@lorrainejee8405]

Does the Versa 3 pause the timer when you stop like the Versa 2, I hope you can help me here? Thanks Courtney

[@hln1969]

Great review thanks. Did you send it back or did they put it back?

[@ReeWrayOutdoors]

I sent it back. Sadly, they appear to be all-in on subscription services now. 😕 but I'm enjoying my Galaxy Watch 4 and am looking forward to the Pixel Watch in a few weeks or so!

[@wesleythompson6705]

good job keep up the updates

[@ciachef32347]

Swipe to the right goes back to clock face on versa 2. You don't have to press the side button.

[@Hi-xh8kr]

Thanks a lot! I had an Inspire HR for a while then recently changed to an Apple Watch however I don't like it as much since it's not really that user-friendly, but thanks to your review, I'm much more confident in switching back!

[@ReeWrayOutdoors]

Glad I could help!

[@peter9111]

So did you send it back? It seems like Fitbit are never going to allow mp3 downloads or Spotify offline capabilities on the versa 3 and sense, even with a firmware update. I was told by a Fitbit support agent. I still ordered the versa 3 the other day anyway. It’s not really a deal breaker for me. I want the onboard GPS tracker and I love the sleep insights Fitbit offers. I already have a charge 3, but it’s dying and out of warranty, so Fitbit offered me a 35% discount on a new device.

[@ReeWrayOutdoors]

Yeah, I sent it back. I'm back on the Versa 2 now. No regrets. I'm sure the Versa 3 will serve you well!

[@peter9111]

@@ReeWrayOutdoors Ah ok I see. Does it not bother you that there’s no onboard GPS on the versa 2? So even though you can store music and don’t need your phone when you go on a run, you would still need your phone for the GPS tracking part anyway?

[@ReeWrayOutdoors]

@@peter9111 personally, if I'm out on a run, I typically take an already known route and so I don't really need the GPS and would much rather have the offline music. I'm far more likely to use the GPS on hikes, and I always have my phone on hikes anyway. So in my case, it made sense to go back to the Versa 2. Plus, that pressure switch on the Versa 3 had me pulling my arm hair every time I tried to press it! Haha

[@peter9111]

@@ReeWrayOutdoors I understand. Thank you for your opinion and excellent review. I look forward to using this pressure switch on the side. I’ve heard nothing but bad things about it lol. Hopefully it doesn’t drive me insane! 😂

[@ej86]

Yeah, I picked up the sense and I had to upgrade my Pandora to listen to music. That one key feature that I miss from my versa one.

[@BigRalphN]

As an audiophile loading mp3 was a pain with my Ionic. Second the quality sucked. I couldn't get enough high quality audio for my liking. All of the audio on services, except maybe Tidal, is over compressed and terrible. Most people take their phone anyway for emergencies. My complaint is no Fall detection.

[@gerryhemmer1573]

The background music is very distracting. Otherwise great job.

[@ReeWrayOutdoors]

Sorry about that. I only added it because I'd gotten a comment previously that I should consider doing so. Guess I'll go back to not doing that...or using it only in specific spots at very low volume...

[@shiningfractal4514]

@@ReeWrayOutdoors Volume definitely needs to be lower and you should also keep in mind the instrument. The song here has sharp notes that distract. Perhaps something with strings rather than percussion.

[@ReeWrayOutdoors]

@@shiningfractal4514 no doubt I subconsciously allowed the music to be more prominent than necessary since it's my own music. :P rookie mistake haha

[@TRIBECHIEFTAIN]

@@ReeWrayOutdoors Why...? There is nothing wrong with the background music! It's just an opinion from someone who has no impact or effort for you making the video... 1 Person outta 46k views and almost 200 comments. A more constructive view is to turn the music down a little... Keep doing what your doing Ree its awesome quality. Take Care Paul from www.CombatFIT.tv

[@ReeWrayOutdoors]

@@TRIBECHIEFTAIN Also an excellent point! Thanks, Paul!

[@2joyfoglietta]

great information. I wanted to add one suggestion- but it requires you to take your phone. Strava has an app that is free with gps- you could use this to save the gps from your fitbit. I guess for me, if I were to take a LONG walk or really long run, I would want my phone so I guess this would take care of that issue. I am sorry to hear they took the feature away from downloading your own music - as it happens, we have a Pandora account. I am still trying to decide whether to keep the fitbit versa 3 - this was helpful.

[@BriqueZeiner1]

What about a typical smartwatch problem - counting steps while cycling?

[@ReeWrayOutdoors]

You're right, of course. The Versa 3 can track your cycling route, but it's not likely to provide much accurate credit for steps during that time due to the inherent lack of wrist motion in that activity.

[@ashlee3156]

So we can't take calls from this? Why does it ring?

[@peterbdavies]

Go for a Garmin. I have had a number of Fitbit devices and most of them have been problematic in one way or another. I was considering upgrading to the Sense but there seem to be a number of issues and some things that have not been activated yet or are not available unless you purchase Fitbit Premium which I would never do. I have a Garmin Fenix 5X which is very good and now I am looking at a smaller Garmin as an every day wear.

[@cheryltiseo9826]

Will you let us know what you find out?… Did they come thru for you on the music or did you return? I want one so bad but want to hear your final outcome. Thank you 😊

[@ReeWrayOutdoors]

I ended up sending it back since there was no indication that Fitbit was going add the feature back. I went back to the Versa 2 because I value the on-board music more than the GPS and it has the more satisfying mechanical button. Plus I got it at a fantastic sale price. Costco will offer them at $50 off starting Nov. 22.

[@cheryltiseo9826]

Thank you so much!!!!! Your awesome. Love that you went thru all of this ...rather annoying for you going back and forth🤪 But you input was greatly appreciated

[@owenchuarbx]

I was considering to get a Versa 3 to replace my Ionic as both have Built-In GPS. I'm going to get the Apple Watch SE instead

[@dorate100]

Waiting til black friday

[@frankdinho6987]

And Amazon prime day

[@mikma]

I have found that the heart rate is very accurate. (versa 2) I recently had a chemical-induced. stress test. My VERSA 2 stayed right along with the heart monitor. Does the VERSA 3 have ant feathers that the sense has?

[@margaretkoger5873]

You should talk about the telephone feature of the Versa 3

[@fantv525]

Thanks for this excellent review and for the warning about mp3s.

[@angelavigil7400]

so did they ever add the music feature?

[@ReeWrayOutdoors]

Nope!