Fitbit Versa now available starting at $199

By Dan Thorp-Lancaster
published

The followup to Fitbit's Ionic is now available in standard and special editions.

Following its reveal in March, the Fitbit Versa is now available to order from Fitbit (opens in new tab) itself and other retailers. Designed as a followup to the Fitbit Ionic, the Versa features many of the same functions but starting at a cheaper $199 (opens in new tab).

The Fitbit Versa certainly shows its Pebble DNA with a "squircle" design that's arguably sleeker than its Ionic sibling. Despite its cheaper price, the Versa still gives you access to the same set of step, calorie, heart-rate, distance, and sleep tracking features.

The main difference between the Versa and Ionic is that the Versa lacks the Ionic's dedicated GPS. Instead, the Versa relies on your phone's GPS to track any outdoor runs or bike rides. Still, if you don't need a dedicated GPS, the Versa is a solid option for the price. In his review, Windows Central executive editor Daniel Rubino called the Fitbit Versa the "best fitness tracker and wearable you can buy right now."

The Fitbit Versa is available in a couple of different varieties. The standard Versa is available in either black, gray, or peach for $199.95 (opens in new tab). Stepping things up to the Versa Special Edition for $229.95 will get you the NFC chip needed to use Fitbit Pay, as well as aesthetic options that include either a lavender woven band with rose gold aluminum case or charcoal woven band with graphite aluminum case. Each Versa Special Edition also includes an extra black classic band. Several accessories are also available (opens in new tab) so you can change up the look even more.

The Fitbit Versa is up for grabs at retailers now. For Windows users, the Fitbit app for Windows 10 recently added support for the smartwatch, so you're good to go, should you pick one up. And if you want to add a little Windows Central flair to your wrist, check out how you can get a Windows Central clockface for the Versa or Ionic.

Dan Thorp-Lancaster
Dan Thorp-Lancaster

Dan Thorp-Lancaster is the former Editor-in-Chief of Windows Central. He began working with Windows Central, Android Central, and iMore as a news writer in 2014 and is obsessed with tech of all sorts. You can follow Dan on Twitter @DthorpL and Instagram @heyitsdtl. 

12 Comments
  • I prefer the latest Suunto: http://www.suunto.com/en-US/Products/Sports-Watches/suunto-3-fitness/suu...
  • How do you "prefer" it when it's not out yet (April 25th) and I presume you also don't have the Versa? Unless you just mean its looks/design, which is fair, though subjective. Seem like a cross between Garmin Fenix and Vector. Seeing as there is zero support for Windows 10/Xbox going to take a hard pass here.
  • You are correct sir. I was referring primarily to the design. I have a Vector and have been looking for something comparable. The Suunto has an always-on display, longer battery life(10days in watch mode, 5 days with 24/7 tracking and notifications), and other fitness bells and whistles for the same price. Plus the bands are standard and can be replaced with a standard band of your choosing. I have two on preorder.
  • Hey Daniel, I just got the Versa. Nice watch however the pc music watching isn't working. Any tips in how to set it up?
  • I won't lie, this is a nice looking device. Especially, if you are more keen on the Galaxy S3 style. Except, this will work with any Android or iPhone. The battery life on this thing is better than the Fitbit Iconic or Versa on paper. Still, if you can get 4 to 5 days between charges, this is always a plus.
  • I just got the versa. Love it. One of the best looking smart watches available for (we) the few Windows 10 mobile enthusiasts out there.. Imho
  • Mine is shipped and should arrive today 🎉😁
  • I picked up my special edition version today and spent time setting it up. I haven't been able to test the music yet as my Pandora subscription had some issues, but I love the look of the Versa as much in person as I did in the promotional materials and in Daniel's (and others) reviews. And wow, that woven band feels great and the thinner device is more comfortable than my Charge 2, which was pretty comfortable itself. The vital Starbucks app is set up. I'm looking forward to the update to allow replies to notifications. So far, activity tracking is working normally.
  • My Vivoactive HR is dying. But I just can't get one of these, it's too Apple Watch (yes I know, Pebble did it first, whatever).
    And I really don't like Garmin's app/software package. So cluttered and full of things I don't want nor need. The Ionic looks nice... and GPS! Bonus..
  • I seem to hear mixed feedback regarding battery life, with some saying it's not as good as the ionic and others saying it's as good or longer. Have other people have varying experiences too? I would think since it doesn't have GPS that it would be as good or longer.
  • Battery lasts 3 days.
  • Dan, I have a question. I have the Fitbit Ionic and I have looked for some of the watch faces that come with the Versa watch but I do not see them on the app. Are these watch faces only for the Versa? Thanks for any help on that.