The Fitbit Ace LTE aims to be the ideal smartwatch for kids, offering a blend of fitness tracking, communication features, and engaging games. But does it live up to the hype and justify its premium price tag?
A Sleek Design That Kids Will Love
Unlike many chunky, toy-like kids' smartwatches, the Ace LTE sports a slim, squircle design reminiscent of the Pixel Watch 2. Its sleek look appeals to kids who want to feel grown-up, while still being durable enough to withstand daily wear and tear. The vibrant color touchscreen protected by Gorilla Glass 3 is a standout feature, offering better visibility and interactivity compared to monochrome displays on cheaper alternatives.
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| The sleek design of the Fitbit Ace LTE appeals to kids who want a modern smartwatch experience |
Motivating Kids to Stay Active
At its core, the Ace LTE excels at encouraging physical activity:
- Gamified fitness goals with movement points
- Fun mini-games that require activity to unlock
- Customizable virtual pet Eejie as a fitness companion
- Simplified activity tracking focused on steps, floors climbed, and active minutes
The watch strikes a good balance between motivation and limiting screen time, with game sessions capped at 5 minutes to keep kids moving.
Communication and Safety Features
For parents, the Ace LTE offers peace of mind:
- LTE calling and messaging to approved contacts
- Real-time GPS location tracking
- Water-resistant design (5ATM rating)
However, it's worth noting that geofencing alerts are not currently available, a feature some competing watches offer.
The Price of Innovation
At $229.99 plus a $10 monthly subscription for LTE features, the Ace LTE is a significant investment. This positions it as a premium option compared to more budget-friendly choices like the $79.99 Fitbit Ace 3.
Battery Life: The Achilles' Heel?
The Ace LTE's advanced features come at a cost to battery life. While Fitbit claims 16+ hours of use, real-world testing suggests closer to 10 hours with moderate use. This is a far cry from the 8-day battery life of the simpler Ace 3.
Is It Worth It?
For families looking for a comprehensive smartwatch solution that can potentially delay the need for a smartphone, the Fitbit Ace LTE is a compelling option. Its blend of sleek design, motivational features, and communication tools make it stand out in the kids' wearable market.
However, budget-conscious buyers or those primarily focused on basic fitness tracking may find better value in more affordable alternatives like the Ace 3. The decision ultimately comes down to how much you value the advanced features and whether you're willing to manage the shorter battery life.
As Google continues to update the Ace LTE with new features like NFC payments and expanded messaging options, it has the potential to become an even more versatile device for active families.