The quickest way to change your Fitbit's time
The fastest way to change the time on your Fitbit is through the Fitbit app on your phone. Open the app, tap your profile picture, select your device, scroll to "Time Zone," and choose your location. The watch updates within a few seconds. If you're traveling and want to change the time manually without switching time zones, you can also adjust it directly on some Fitbit models by holding the button on the side and scrolling through the settings menu.
Most Fitbits sync automatically with your phone's time when you first set them up, so you typically won't need to change it unless you travel across time zones or your phone's clock is wrong. The process differs slightly depending on which Fitbit model you own — older trackers like the Charge 2 use the device menu, while newer models like the Sense 2 and Versa 4 rely almost entirely on the app.
Key Takeaways
- The Fitbit app is the primary way to change your time zone on modern Fitbit watches and trackers.
- Older Fitbit models allow you to adjust the time directly on the device through the settings menu without using the app.
- Your Fitbit normally syncs with your phone's time automatically, so manual changes are usually only needed when traveling.
- Time zone changes take effect within seconds on the device and don't require you to restart your Fitbit.
Changing the time through the Fitbit app
Open the Fitbit app and tap the profile icon in the bottom right corner. Select your device from the list — if you have multiple Fitbits, make sure you're changing the right one. Scroll down until you see "Time Zone" and tap it. A list of time zones appears organized by region and city. Choose your current location or the time zone you want to set.
The app sends the update to your Fitbit immediately. You'll see the time change on your device's screen within a few seconds, and the change persists even if you close the app. This method works on all current Fitbit models and is the recommended approach because it ensures your device stays synced with your phone's time going forward.
Adjusting time directly on your Fitbit device
Older Fitbit models like the Charge 2, Charge 3, and Versa 1 allow you to change the time without opening the app. Press and hold the button on the side of your device until the settings menu appears. Scroll through the menu using the same button until you find "Time" or "Clock." Tap to enter that setting, then use the button to scroll through hours and minutes. Press to confirm each selection.
This method is slower than using the app and doesn't change your time zone — it only adjusts the displayed time. If you travel to a different time zone and want the time to update automatically in the future, you'll still need to use the app to set your time zone. Some newer models don't have this on-device option at all and require the app.
What to do if your Fitbit time is wrong after syncing
If your Fitbit shows the wrong time even after you've set it through the app, the most common cause is that your phone's time is incorrect. Check your phone's clock first — go to Settings and verify the time matches your actual location. If your phone is correct, restart the Fitbit app by closing it completely and opening it again, then check the time zone setting.
If the problem persists, restart your Fitbit device. The restart process varies by model: on most trackers, you hold the button for 10 to 15 seconds until you see a restart screen, then confirm. After the restart completes, open the app and set your time zone again. If your Fitbit still shows the wrong time after these steps, the device may have a software issue and you should contact Fitbit support.
Changing your time zone while traveling
When you travel to a new time zone, you can update your Fitbit before you leave or after you arrive — either way works. If you update before traveling, your Fitbit will show the correct time when you land. If you forget, simply open the app once you arrive, tap your profile, select your device, and change the time zone to your new location. The update takes effect immediately.
Your Fitbit's activity tracking and heart rate data are not affected by time zone changes. Steps, calories, and sleep data recorded in the old time zone stay associated with the dates they were recorded. Only the clock display on your device changes, so you don't lose any history or need to recalibrate anything.
Fitbit models and their time-setting options
| Fitbit Model | Change Time in App | Change Time on Device |
|---|---|---|
| Sense 2, Versa 4, Inspire 3 | Yes | No |
| Charge 5, Charge 6 | Yes | No |
| Versa 3, Sense 1 | Yes | No |
| Charge 2, Charge 3, Versa 1 | Yes | Yes |
| Inspire, Inspire HR, Ace 2 | Yes | Limited |
Newer Fitbit models removed the on-device time settings menu to simplify the interface and reduce battery drain. If you own a recent model and prefer not to use the app, you can still adjust your phone's time zone, and your Fitbit will sync to match it automatically.
Frequently Asked Questions
Will changing the time on my Fitbit affect my activity data?
No. Your steps, calories burned, heart rate, and sleep data are recorded with timestamps that don't change when you adjust the time. The data stays associated with the date and time it was recorded, even if you later change your device's clock.
Can I set my Fitbit to a time that doesn't match my phone?
On older models with on-device time settings, yes — you can set any time you want. On newer models, your Fitbit syncs with your phone's time and time zone, so they will always match. If you need a different time on your Fitbit, you would have to change your phone's time first.
Why does my Fitbit keep reverting to the wrong time?
Your Fitbit syncs with your phone every time it connects via Bluetooth. If your phone's time is wrong, your Fitbit will match it. Check your phone's clock and time zone settings. If your phone is correct and your Fitbit still reverts, try restarting both devices and reconnecting them through the app.
Do I need to change the time on my Fitbit if I travel for just a few days?
You don't have to, but it's helpful if you want your device to show the local time. Your activity tracking works the same regardless of what time your Fitbit displays. If you prefer to see the correct local time on your wrist, update the time zone through the app as soon as you arrive.