I have a Charge, and I love it. I owned the Force previously, and the Charge is much improved. I did not wait for the Charge HR because I have a Polar FT7, so I didn't want to pay extra for the HR functionality. If you do not have that functionality, then the small upcharge may be worth it! Even if it is not 100% accurate, it can give you an idea of increase or decrease in your heart rate.

The Charge will also flash the caller ID info on your wrist. The Surge does texts and such - but it's a BIG display for your arm! The Charge is much more manageable. If you are exercising, it can show you the caller ID name and vibrate briefly and you can decide whether or not that person is worth stopping for. No need to stop and grab your phone and find out it is your Mother-In-Law asking to drop by for dinner.

I can't say it's better than the Surge for your needs, but I can say that I've been very pleased with it, and Fitbit has great customer service. You are getting a great service from your employer!