Garmin recently released the Cirqa, a screenless fitness tracker priced at $200. This places it directly against the Fitbit Air, which debuted earlier this year at $100. Both devices target users looking for unobtrusive hardware that tracks steps, sleep, and workouts, but their operational focus differs enough to warrant a close look before purchase.
The Fitbit Air remains the lighter option, weighing 12 grams compared to the 20.7 grams of the Cirqa. It also boasts a lower barrier to entry for those new to wearables. However, the Garmin Cirqa offers a 10-day battery life, outlasting the seven-day span of the Air. The Cirqa also includes a physical button for manual workout logging, providing a tactile alternative to the app-based or automatic tracking found on the Fitbit.
Software subscriptions represent the most distinct split between the two systems. Google Health Premium costs $10 per month and integrates heavy AI features for guidance and coaching. Conversely, Garmin Connect+ costs $7 monthly but is largely optional, as most analytics come included with the hardware itself. The Cirqa provides deeper metrics like Body Battery and Training Readiness, reflecting a focus on athletic performance.
Long-term costs change the value proposition. While the Fitbit Air is cheaper upfront, the subscription requirements for Google's AI features can make the Garmin Cirqa more economical over a three-year window. Deciding between the two depends on whether the user prefers light wellness tracking or rigorous, data-heavy athletic training.