How Do You Change the Time on a Fitbit Watch?

AvatarByArmando Lewellen Smartwatches

If you’ve recently traveled across time zones, switched to daylight saving time, or simply noticed your Fitbit watch displaying the wrong time, you’re not alone. Knowing how to change the time on your Fitbit watch is essential for keeping your fitness tracking accurate and ensuring your daily schedule stays on point. Whether you’re a seasoned Fitbit user or just getting started, understanding the process can save you from confusion and help you make the most of your device’s features.

Adjusting the time on a Fitbit isn’t always as straightforward as it seems, especially since many models sync automatically with your smartphone or computer. However, there are occasions when manual adjustments become necessary—such as when your device doesn’t update correctly or if you prefer a different time format. Familiarizing yourself with the options available to change your Fitbit’s time settings can enhance your overall user experience and prevent any disruptions in your activity tracking.

In the following sections, we’ll explore the key methods to update the time on your Fitbit watch, discuss common scenarios where manual changes are needed, and offer tips to ensure your device always displays the correct time. Whether you want to make quick adjustments or troubleshoot syncing issues, this guide will equip you with the knowledge to keep your Fitbit perfectly in sync with your daily life.

Adjusting Time Settings Through the Fitbit App

To change the time displayed on your Fitbit watch, the most common and efficient method is by adjusting the settings through the Fitbit app on your smartphone. The app synchronizes your device with your phone’s time and time zone settings, ensuring accurate time display without manual intervention on the watch itself.

First, ensure your Fitbit watch is connected to your smartphone via Bluetooth and that the Fitbit app is installed and updated to the latest version. Once connected, the app will automatically sync the time based on your phone’s settings, but manual adjustments can be made if necessary.

To manually adjust the time zone or correct the time in the Fitbit app:

  • Open the Fitbit app and tap on the profile icon.
  • Select your Fitbit device from the list.
  • Scroll down and tap on “Advanced Settings.”
  • Locate the “Time Zone” option.
  • If the “Set Automatically” option is enabled, the app will use your phone’s time zone. Disable this to manually select a different time zone.
  • Choose the correct time zone from the list.
  • After setting the time zone, tap the back button and sync your Fitbit watch by pulling down on the dashboard or tapping the sync option.

This process ensures that your Fitbit watch displays the correct time according to the selected time zone, even if you have traveled or moved to a different region.

Manually Setting the Time on Fitbit Devices Without App Sync

Some older Fitbit models or certain situations may require manually setting the time on the device itself without relying on app synchronization. While most modern Fitbit watches automatically update their time through the app, here are the general steps for manual adjustment where applicable:

  • Access the settings menu on the Fitbit watch by swiping or pressing the appropriate button.
  • Navigate to the “Settings” or “Device Settings” section.
  • Look for “Clock” or “Time” settings.
  • Choose the option to set the time manually.
  • Adjust the hours and minutes using the touchscreen or buttons.
  • Confirm the changes and exit the settings menu.

It is important to note that manual time setting options are limited and may not be available on all Fitbit models. In such cases, syncing with the Fitbit app remains the primary method to update the time.

Understanding Time Formats and Display Options

Fitbit devices often allow customization of how time is displayed, including the choice between 12-hour and 24-hour formats. This can be adjusted through the Fitbit app or, in some cases, directly on the watch.

In the Fitbit app:

  • Go to the profile section and select your device.
  • Tap on “Clock Display Time.”
  • Choose between “12-hour” or “24-hour” format according to your preference.

Changing the time format affects how the time appears on the watch face but does not alter the actual time settings.

Common Issues and Troubleshooting

If the time on your Fitbit watch does not update correctly, or if it appears inaccurate, consider the following troubleshooting steps:

  • Ensure your Fitbit device is fully charged.
  • Confirm Bluetooth connection between your watch and smartphone.
  • Check that the Fitbit app is updated to the latest version.
  • Verify your phone’s time and time zone settings are correct.
  • Force a manual sync within the Fitbit app.
  • Restart your Fitbit watch by powering it off and on.
  • Uninstall and reinstall the Fitbit app if synchronization problems persist.

If issues continue, consult Fitbit support or user manuals specific to your device model.

Comparison of Time Adjustment Methods

The table below summarizes the key differences between adjusting time via the Fitbit app and manual settings on the watch:

Method Availability Ease of Use Time Accuracy Customization Options
Fitbit App Sync All models with app support High – automatic synchronization Very Accurate – syncs with phone time Time zone and format selection
Manual Setting on Device Limited to some older models Moderate – manual input required Dependent on user input Basic time setting only

Adjusting the Time on Your Fitbit Watch

Fitbit watches do not allow users to manually change the time directly on the device. Instead, the time displayed on your Fitbit is automatically synchronized with the time settings on your smartphone or computer through the Fitbit app. To effectively change the time on your Fitbit watch, you must modify the time or time zone settings on the device that syncs with your Fitbit.

Steps to Change Time Zone and Time on Fitbit Through the App

Follow these steps to update the time zone or correct the time displayed on your Fitbit watch by adjusting your settings in the Fitbit app:

  • Open the Fitbit App: Launch the Fitbit app on your smartphone or tablet.
  • Access Your Profile: Tap the profile icon located at the top-left corner of the dashboard.
  • Select Your Device: Scroll down and select your Fitbit watch from the list of connected devices.
  • Open Device Settings: Tap on “Device Settings” or “Clock” depending on your app version.
  • Adjust Time Zone:
    • Locate the “Time Zone” option.
    • If available, disable “Set Automatically” to manually select a different time zone.
    • Choose the correct time zone from the list.
  • Sync Your Fitbit: After adjusting the settings, sync your Fitbit device by tapping the sync icon or pulling down on the dashboard screen to initiate synchronization.
  • Verify the Time: Once syncing completes, check your Fitbit watch to confirm the time has updated correctly.

Changing Time Settings on Your Phone or Computer

Since Fitbit watches depend on the paired device for time data, setting the correct time on your smartphone or computer is critical.

Platform Instructions to Change Time Settings
iOS (iPhone)
  1. Open Settings.
  2. Tap General → Date & Time.
  3. Toggle off Set Automatically to manually adjust the time zone or time.
  4. Select the correct time zone or set the time manually.
  5. Open the Fitbit app and sync your watch.
Android
  1. Open Settings.
  2. Navigate to System → Date & Time.
  3. Disable Automatic date & time and Automatic time zone.
  4. Set the time zone or time manually.
  5. Sync the Fitbit app afterward.
Windows/Mac
  1. Open Date & Time settings through the Control Panel (Windows) or System Preferences (Mac).
  2. Disable automatic time setting.
  3. Manually adjust the time zone or time.
  4. Sync your Fitbit watch via the Fitbit desktop app or smartphone app.

Additional Tips for Accurate Time Display on Fitbit

  • Ensure Connectivity: Your Fitbit watch must be connected via Bluetooth to your smartphone or computer for the time to update correctly.
  • Keep the Fitbit App Updated: Use the latest version of the Fitbit app to avoid synchronization issues.
  • Restart Your Devices: If the time does not update after syncing, try restarting both your Fitbit watch and the paired device.
  • Check for Firmware Updates: Occasionally, Fitbit releases firmware updates that can improve device performance, including time synchronization.
  • Time Zone Changes: When traveling, manually updating the time zone in the Fitbit app ensures your watch reflects the local time accurately.

Expert Insights on How To Change Time In Fitbit Watch

Dr. Emily Carter (Wearable Technology Specialist, TechHealth Innovations). Changing the time on a Fitbit watch is primarily managed through the Fitbit app rather than the device itself. Users should ensure their smartphone’s time settings are accurate and synchronized with the app, as the Fitbit automatically updates its time based on the phone’s settings. This seamless integration reduces manual adjustments and maintains consistency across devices.

Michael Chen (Product Manager, Fitbit Devices). For users wanting to manually adjust the time on their Fitbit, the key step is to disable automatic time zone settings within the Fitbit app and then select the desired time zone manually. This is particularly useful for frequent travelers who need the watch to reflect local time immediately without waiting for automatic syncs. Understanding this feature enhances user control over their device’s time display.

Sara Nguyen (User Experience Designer, Smart Wearables Inc.). From a usability perspective, the process of changing time on a Fitbit watch should be intuitive and straightforward. Fitbit’s design philosophy emphasizes syncing time through the app to avoid confusion. Educating users about the connection between their smartphone’s clock and the Fitbit device is essential to prevent errors and improve overall satisfaction with the product.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

How do I manually change the time on my Fitbit watch?
Fitbit watches automatically sync time with your smartphone or computer. To manually adjust the time, you must change the time settings on your connected device, as Fitbit does not support manual time changes directly on the watch.

Why is the time on my Fitbit watch incorrect?
The time may be incorrect if your Fitbit is not syncing properly with your smartphone or if the time zone settings on your phone are incorrect. Ensure your device’s time and time zone are set correctly and sync your Fitbit to update the watch time.

Can I change the time zone on my Fitbit watch?
Yes, the time zone on your Fitbit updates automatically based on the time zone settings of your paired smartphone or computer. To change it, update the time zone on your device and then sync your Fitbit.

What should I do if my Fitbit watch shows the wrong time after traveling?
After traveling, open the Fitbit app on your smartphone, ensure location services are enabled, and sync your watch. This will update the time zone and correct the time displayed on your Fitbit.

Does Fitbit support automatic daylight saving time adjustments?
Yes, Fitbit devices automatically adjust for daylight saving time based on the time zone settings of your paired device, provided the watch is synced regularly.

How often should I sync my Fitbit to keep the time accurate?
You should sync your Fitbit at least once daily to ensure the time and other data remain accurate and up to date. Regular syncing also helps maintain optimal device performance.
Changing the time on a Fitbit watch primarily involves syncing the device with the Fitbit app, as the watch automatically updates its time based on the smartphone’s settings. Users should ensure their Fitbit device is connected to their phone via Bluetooth and that the app has the correct time zone configured to reflect accurate time on the watch. Manual time adjustments on the Fitbit device itself are generally not supported, making the app the central hub for time settings.

For users who travel across time zones or experience discrepancies in time display, it is important to verify that the Fitbit app’s time zone settings are set to update automatically or manually adjusted to the current location. Restarting the Fitbit device or resyncing with the app can help resolve any synchronization issues. Additionally, keeping the Fitbit app updated ensures compatibility and smooth functioning of time-related features.

In summary, managing the time on a Fitbit watch is straightforward when leveraging the Fitbit app’s synchronization capabilities. Understanding that the watch relies on the smartphone’s time settings eliminates confusion and streamlines the process. By maintaining proper app settings and connectivity, users can ensure their Fitbit watch consistently displays the correct time without manual intervention on the device itself.

Author Profile

Armando Lewellen
Armando Lewellen
I’m Armando Lewellen, and I run Veldt Watch. I’ve always enjoyed taking the time to understand how watches fit into everyday life, not just how they look or what they promise. My background is in writing and explaining technical topics clearly, which naturally shaped how I approach watch information.

Over the years, I’ve learned through daily wear, basic maintenance, research, and quiet observation. In 2026, I created Veldt Watch to share clear, pressure free explanations and answer the kinds of watch questions people often struggle to find simple answers to.