Computer Competencies

1. Device Comparisons
BY: AMBER STEVENS

2. Activity Trackers
Typically an activity tracker will monitor the
steps you have taken, the distance you have
walked, the calories you have burned, and
sleep activity throughout the day. Usually
fitness bands can connect via Bluetooth to
your smart phone, but some allow you to
connect to your computer to see your activity
aswell.

3. Fitbit Alta
The Fitbit Alta is an activity tracker that
monitors all/everyday activity. The Alta tracks
your calorie intake, monitors sleep, how many
minutes per day you were active, and
measures hourly activity. The Alta also allows
you to view your stats and activity on and LED
screen which is the front face of the band. The
battery life lasts up to five days, which is about
average for a fitness watch.

4. Jawbone Up3
The jawbone Up3 supplies information on
heart health, sleep activity, and the activity you
have done throughout the day. The Jawbone
Up3 also tracks your calorie intake, how many
calories you have burned, your sleep pattern,
and gives you an on hand learning coach to
help you successfully reach your goals. The
jawbone has a shorter battery life and only last
a consistent 4 days.

5. Fitbit Flex
The Fitbit Flex is a wireless activity tracker and
sleep monitor. It measure everyday activity,
lights up when your close to reaching your
daily goal, and sets silent alarms to remind
you to get active. The Flex measures your
calorie intake, the calories you have burned,
tracks the amount of steps that you have
taken, and your hourly activity. Unfortunately
the Flex does not have an LED screen, but it
does flash indicating your completion for your
daily goal.

6. The Cost
Fitbit Alta costs around $130.00
The Jawbone Up3 costs around $49.99
The Fitbit Flex costs around $79.99

7. Waterproof
The Fitbit Alta is waterproof to an extent. It is
okay for mild precipitation, but will not last
after being submerged in water.
The Jawbone Up3 is also okay with slight
dampness, but will be ruined if submerged
into water.
The Fitbit Flex is not completely waterproof
either, but a little rain or sweat wont hurt it.

8. Overall Review
The Fitbit Alta is great if you want to have an
actual view of your stats on the go. Though, most
of the time there is a smartphone around, the Alta
allows you to view your activity on the
touchscreen surface. It measures what a typical
fitness band would measure, though the price is a
little high.
The Jawbone Up3 is a great affordable alternative
to any of the fitbits, although it does not have a
touch screen, its easy to download the app and
look at your stats through your phone.
The Fitbit Flex is cheaper than the Alta, but is the
mid range for a wireless activity tracker. It does
not have a touchscreen, but like the jawbone it is
easy to download the app to your smartphone
and track your activity through there.