Hands On: Fitbit's Sense 2, Versa 4 Smartwatches Look Like Big Upgrades

pcmag.com:

BERLIN—Fitbit's Sense 2 and Versa 4 smartwatches aren't slated to begin shipping in the US for another three weeks, but the new fitness trackers are on display now at the IFA trade show. 

I strolled up to the "Fitbit by Google" booth, and, to my delight, there they were—the premium Sense 2 ($299.95) and the midrange Versa 4 ($229.95). Based on my brief first impressions, Fitbit's latest smartwatches appear to offer major design and functionality improvements over the previous generation. 

In a departure from their predecessors, the Sense 2 and Versa 4 are basically indistinguishable from each other in terms of design. The original Sense had a slightly fancier look with a shiny metal ring around the display that the Versa 3 lacked. This time around, the Sense 2 and the Versa 4 have the same satin case finish. 

Of course, the pricier Sense 2 offers several features not available on the Versa 4. That includes an ECG app that can assess your heart rhythm, a skin temperature sensor, and a continuous electrodermal activity (cEDA) sensor for all-day stress tracking. If you're deciding between the two and don't necessarily care about those advanced health-tracking features, go with the more affordable Versa 4, because it otherwise looks and works the same. 

Both new models feature a tactile mechanical button on the left side of the case, a huge upgrade from the somewhat unresponsive haptic button on the original Sense and Versa 3. Based on what I saw of both new wearables, responsiveness shouldn't be a problem this time around. The new mechanical button is much easier to press, and the display immediately lights up when you do. 

The new mechanical button will, no doubt, offer improved day-to-day functionality, especially during