Are you considering buying the Fitbit Charge 5 for your daily fitness tracking needs but wondering if it can handle water exposure? Look no further as I dive into the question – “Is the Fitbit Charge 5 waterproof?”
With fitness trackers being used in a variety of outdoor and water-based activities, it’s important to know if the Charge 5 by Fitbit can withstand various types of weather and water exposure.
In this post, I’ll explore the Fitbit Charge 5’s waterproof rating, real-life waterproof capabilities (from my tests), additional features, and how it compares to other waterproof wearables in the market.
If you’re a fitness enthusiast looking for a reliable wearable that can withstand water exposure, keep reading to find out if the Fitbit Charge 5 is the right device for you.
Table of Contents
Related: Best Waterproof Fitbit for Swimming
So, Is the Fitbit Charge 5 Waterproof?
The Fitbit Charge 5 is not completely waterproof. It is only water-resistant up to a certain depth and for a limited amount of time. The Charge 5 has an official water resistance rating of 5ATM – it can withstand water pressure up to a depth of 50 meters for 10 minutes.
This makes the activity tracker an ideal choice if you enjoy swimming or engaging in water-based workouts. It is not recommended for snorkeling, water skiing, or scuba diving.
Related: How to Set Time on Fitbit
Real-life Waterproof Capabilities of the Fitbit Charge 5
In addition to the official rating, I have conducted various tests on the Fitbit Charge 5 to determine its real-life waterproof capabilities.
According to my tests, the device can comfortably handle water exposure during swimming, showering, and handwashing – without damage. I have worn the device in the shower or while swimming without any issues.
NB: Properly dry the device after exposing it to water to avoid any long-term damage.
Related: Is Fitbit Charge 2 Waterproof or Just Water-Resistant?
How to use the Fitbit Charge 5 safely in water
Even though the Fitbit Charge 5 is water-resistant, it is important to follow proper precautions (when engaging in water-based activities) to ensure the safety and durability of your device.
Activate Water Lock
To use the Fitbit Charge 5 safely in water, it is recommended to activate the Fitbit water lock feature when you’re in water. When the water lock feature is on, it prevents the screen from activating – the device’s screen locks, and the water lock icon 
appears at the bottom.
Even though the device’s notifications and alarms still appear, you must unlock your screen (exit water lock) to interact with them.
NB: The water lock automatically turns on when you start a swim in the Exercise app 
. For other water activities like taking a shower or doing dishes, you’ll have to manually activate this feature by swiping down from the clock screen then tapping Water Lock then firmly tapping your screen twice.
Reduce Exposure to Soaps and Shampoos
Even though you can take a bath with your Fitbit Charge 5 on without any problems, doing so exposes the device to shampoos, soaps, and conditioners.
Prolonged exposure to chemicals in the cleaning detergents can be damaging to the device. The exposure may also cause skin irritation in the area where the Fitbit has contact with the hand.
Avoid Hot Tubs and Saunas
Even though you can shower with your Charge 5 on without any problems, it is not recommended to wear it in a hot tub or sauna. The high temperatures in hot tubs or saunas can be damaging to the device.
Rinse it with Fresh Water
It is important to rinse the device with fresh water after exposing it to saltwater or chlorine to prevent any build-up that could damage the device. Most swimming pools have chlorinated water to kill germs.
By following the above guidelines, you can confidently use your Fitbit Charge 5 in water without worrying about damaging it.
Comparison to Other Waterproof Wearables
The Fitbit Charge 5 (one of the latest Fitbit models) is not the only waterproof wearable in the market. Several other devices are also designed to be used in water, such as the Apple Watch Series 8, Samsung Galaxy Watch 5 Pro, the Whoop 4.0, and Garmin Fenix 7.
- Apple Watch Series 8 is water resistant up to 50 meters making it perfect for swimming, surfing, or water balloon fights.
- Samsung Galaxy Watch 5 Pro is water resistant up to 50 meters making it perfect for swimming, taking a bath, or snorkeling. Not suitable for scuba diving or high-pressure water activities.
- The WHOOP 4.0 is water resistant at depths up to 10 meters for up to 2 hours. The activity tracker can be worn when swimming, hand washing or doing the dishes, or taking a shower.
- Garmin Fenix 7 watch is water resistant up to 100 meters. Perfect for most water activities like swimming, doing dishes, and showering.
Related: Fitbit Charge 5 vs Apple Watch 6
FAQs
Can I wear my Fitbit Charge 5 in the shower?
The Charge 5 is water-resistant and can be worn in the shower. However, it is recommended to remove the tracker while showering and to give your wrist a break.
Also removing your Charge 5 while taking a shower reduces the device’s exposure to soaps, shampoos, and conditioners. Prolonged exposure to washing detergents can be damaging to the tracker.
Can you wear Fitbit Charge 5 in a sauna?
Even though Fitbit Charge 5 is water resistant, it is not recommended to be worn inside a sauna, a hot tub, or a steam room as high temperatures can be damaging to the device.
How do I swim with my Fitbit Charge 5?
To start a swim on your Charge 5, press the crown on your tracker, swipe up to the Exercise app , and tap the app to open it. Tap Swim, then swipe up and tap Pool Length.
NB: Starting a swim automatically activates the Fitbit water lock feature.
Conclusion
The Fitbit Charge 5 is a water-resistant device that can withstand water exposure up to a certain depth and for a limited amount of time.
It is a great option for those looking for a reliable fitness wearable that can also be used in water – great for water-related activities like swimming, showering, and handwashing.
Using a waterproof device like the Fitbit Charge 5 offers several benefits, such as preventing damage caused by accidental water exposure, allowing you to wear it all day even during sweaty workout sessions, and enabling you to track your swimming and other water-related activities.
NB: You should still exercise caution when using the Fitbit Charge 5 in water, as it is not completely waterproof. Also, avoid exposing it to high-pressure water or submerging the device for extended periods.