The fastest way to set the time on your Fitbit

The method depends on which Fitbit model you own. Most Fitbits set the time automatically through your phone's Fitbit app, so you rarely need to adjust it manually. If your Fitbit shows the wrong time, the quickest fix is to open the Fitbit app, go to your device settings, and toggle the automatic time zone setting off and back on. For older models like the Fitbit Ionic or Fitbit Versa, you may need to manually enter the time through the device's on-screen menu.

The automatic method works because your Fitbit syncs with your phone, which already knows the correct time. Manual adjustment is only necessary if automatic sync fails or if you're using a very old Fitbit model without app support.

Key Takeaways

  • Most Fitbits automatically sync time from your phone through the Fitbit app, so manual changes are rarely needed.
  • If the time is wrong, toggle the automatic time zone setting off and on again in the Fitbit app's device settings.
  • Fitbit Ionic and Fitbit Versa models let you set time manually through the device menu if automatic sync fails.
  • Daylight saving time changes happen automatically on Fitbits that sync with your phone, as long as your phone's time is correct.

How to fix the time using the Fitbit app

Open the Fitbit app on your phone and tap the profile icon in the bottom right corner. Select your device from the list, then tap the gear icon to open device settings. Look for a setting labeled "Set Time Automatically" or "Automatic Time Zone" — the exact name varies by model. Toggle this setting off, wait a few seconds, then toggle it back on. Your Fitbit should sync with your phone and display the correct time.

If toggling doesn't work, try closing the Fitbit app completely and reopening it. On some phones, force-closing the app (rather than just swiping away from it) ensures a fresh sync. After reopening, check your device settings again and repeat the toggle step.

This method works for Fitbit Charge, Fitbit Inspire, Fitbit Ace, Fitbit Sense, and most other current models. The setting names may differ slightly depending on your specific Fitbit and the app version you're running.

Manual time adjustment on Fitbit Ionic and Fitbit Versa

If you own a Fitbit Ionic or Fitbit Versa (first or second generation), you can set the time directly on the device. Swipe down from the top of the screen to open the quick settings menu. Tap the Settings icon (usually a gear), then scroll to find "Time" or "Clock." Tap it and use the on-screen controls to adjust the hours and minutes. Press the back button or swipe left to save your changes.

These older models still sync with the Fitbit app, so automatic time adjustment should work first. Use manual adjustment only if the automatic method fails or if you need to set a time zone that your phone doesn't recognize.

What to do if your Fitbit time keeps changing

If your Fitbit time resets or changes unexpectedly, the automatic time sync is likely re-engaging. Check that the "Set Time Automatically" setting is actually enabled in the Fitbit app — sometimes toggling it off leaves it off. Make sure your phone's time and time zone are correct, because your Fitbit copies whatever your phone displays. If your phone's time is wrong, your Fitbit will be wrong too.

Another common cause is that your Fitbit and phone are out of sync. Open the Fitbit app and let it sync fully — you'll see a spinning icon while this happens. Once sync completes, check the time on your Fitbit. If the problem persists, restart your Fitbit by holding the button on the side or back for 10 to 15 seconds until you see the Fitbit logo.

Handling time zone changes and daylight saving time

When you travel to a different time zone, your Fitbit updates automatically if the "Set Time Automatically" setting is on. Your phone detects the new time zone and your Fitbit syncs to match. You don't need to do anything — just make sure your phone's location services are enabled so it can detect the time zone change.

Daylight saving time changes happen the same way. On the day clocks spring forward or fall back, your Fitbit adjusts automatically overnight as long as automatic time sync is enabled. If you live in a place that doesn't observe daylight saving time, your Fitbit will still show the correct local time because it's reading from your phone.

Restarting your Fitbit if time won't sync

If toggling the automatic time setting and restarting your phone don't fix the problem, restart your Fitbit itself. The method varies by model. For Fitbit Charge and Inspire models, hold the side button for 10 to 15 seconds until you see the Fitbit logo on the screen, then release. For Fitbit Sense and Versa models, swipe down from the top, tap Settings, scroll to "About," and select "Restart." Wait for the device to power off and back on.

After your Fitbit restarts, open the Fitbit app and let it sync completely. The time should now match your phone. If it still doesn't, check that Bluetooth is enabled on your phone and that your Fitbit is within range. A Fitbit that can't connect to your phone can't sync the time.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why does my Fitbit show a different time than my phone?

Your Fitbit copies the time from your phone through the Fitbit app. If they don't match, either your phone's time is wrong, automatic time sync is turned off, or the devices haven't synced recently. Check your phone's time first, then toggle the automatic time setting off and on in the Fitbit app.

Can I set a custom time on my Fitbit that's different from my phone?

Most current Fitbits don't support a custom time separate from your phone — they're designed to stay in sync. Older models like the Ionic and Versa let you set time manually, but the app will override it the next time you sync. If you need a different time zone, change your phone's time zone instead.

Does my Fitbit automatically adjust for daylight saving time?

Yes, if automatic time sync is enabled. Your Fitbit reads the time from your phone, which handles daylight saving time changes automatically. You don't need to manually adjust anything on the day clocks change.

What if my Fitbit won't sync with the Fitbit app?

Make sure Bluetooth is on and your phone is within 30 feet of your Fitbit. Close the Fitbit app completely and reopen it. If that doesn't work, restart your Fitbit and your phone. If syncing still fails, try unpairing and re-pairing your Fitbit in the app's device settings.