Comparing Forerunner 935 and Fenix 3
Garmin Fenix 3 and Garmin Forerunner 935 are two popular smartwatches that offer a variety of features and functions for fitness and outdoor enthusiasts. Choosing the right watch is essential as it can significantly impact your daily activities and performance tracking. Both watches come from Garmin, a brand known for its high-quality GPS technology, reliable wearables, and a long-standing reputation in the market. In this article, we will cover various aspects of these watches including design, features, user interface, price, and more to help you make an informed decision.
Before diving into the comparison, it is important to understand the significance of selecting the appropriate watch based on your requirements. Each watch offers different features, and understanding their similarities and differences will make the decision-making process easier.
Design and Build
Garmin Fenix 3
The Garmin Fenix 3 offers a robust design with high-quality materials to ensure durability. Some of its design aspects include:
- Stainless steel bezel with a fiber-reinforced polymer case
- Size and weight: 51 x 51 x 15.5mm, 82g
- Scratch-resistant mineral crystal screen lens
- 240 x 240-pixel Chroma LED screen (1.2 inches)
Garmin Forerunner 935
The Garmin Forerunner 935 offers a lighter design and more advanced features than the Fenix 3. Its design features include:
- Fiber-reinforced polymer case with stainless steel bezel
- Size and weight: 47 x 47 x 13.9mm, 49g
- Scratch-resistant mineral crystal screen lens
- 240 x 240-pixel LCD screen (1.2 inches)
Comparison of design and build quality
While both watches offer a durable design, the Forerunner 935 is lighter and sleeker than the Fenix 3. The Fenix 3 is more rugged and has a larger and heavier frame which may appeal to outdoor enthusiasts who desire durability over sleekness. However, both models share visibility with their 1.2-inch screen size and scratch-resistant mineral crystal lenses.
Features and Functionality
Garmin Fenix 3
The Fenix 3 offers a wide range of features and functions, including:
- Operating system: None
- Sensors: GPS, barometer, altimeter, accelerometer, heart rate (with a compatible chest strap)
- Battery life: 50 hours to 6 weeks, rechargeable
- Fitness tracking: calories, distance, steps, sleep, swim, and cycling
- Additional features: music function, smartphone compatibility, Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, and more
Garmin Forerunner 935
The Forerunner 935 provides several enhancements compared to the Fenix 3, including:
- Operating system: None
- Sensors: GPS, barometer, altimeter, accelerometer, optical heart rate, oxygen tracking
- Battery life: Up to 2 weeks, rechargeable
- Fitness tracking: calories, distance, steps, sleep, swim, cycling, oxygen tracking, and heart rate
- Additional features: music function, smartphone compatibility, Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, NFC, and more
Comparison of features and performance
Both smartwatches offer various fitness tracking options, with the Forerunner 935 performing better in terms of onboard heart rate tracking and oxygen tracking. Battery life is also longer in the Forerunner 935 compared to the Fenix 3. Although both devices share several features, the Forerunner 935 has a more advanced system, making it more suitable for serious athletes and fitness enthusiasts.
User Interface and User Experience
Garmin Fenix 3
The Fenix 3 offers a user-friendly and customizable interface. Features include:
- Display: LED color screen with a 218 x 218-pixel resolution
- Navigation: Buttons (non-touch)
- Apps and customization capability
- Compatible with Android, iOS, and Windows Phone
Garmin Forerunner 935
The Forerunner 935 provides a more sophisticated user interface and experience, with:
- Display: LCD color screen with a 240 x 240-pixel resolution
- Navigation: Touchscreen
- Apps and customization capability
- Compatible with Android, iOS, and Windows Phone
Comparison of user interface and user experience
Both devices offer easy navigation and compatibility with various smartphones. However, the Forerunner 935 has a higher resolution display and touchscreen functionality, offering a better overall user experience than the Fenix 3.
Price and Value
Garmin Fenix 3
With a price tag of $500, the Fenix 3 offers durability and a wide range of features, making it a solid choice for outdoor enthusiasts and fitness buffs.
Garmin Forerunner 935
At the same price of $500, the Forerunner 935 boasts more advanced features and a sleeker design, catering to serious athletes and those who prefer a lighter wearable with a touchscreen display.
Comparison of price and value
With identical prices, the decision ultimately comes down to personal preference and intended use. The Fenix 3 offers a more rugged design and is suitable for outdoor activities, while the Forerunner 935 provides additional tracking features for a more comprehensive fitness experience.
Conclusion
After comparing the Garmin Fenix 3 and Forerunner 935 across various aspects, it is evident that both smartwatches offer value in their own ways. If you prefer a rugged, durable, and reliable device, the Fenix 3 is a perfect choice. On the other hand, the Forerunner 935 provides enhanced fitness tracking features and a more advanced user interface within a sleek, lightweight design.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which device has better battery life: Garmin Fenix 3 or Forerunner 935?
The Garmin Forerunner 935 has a longer battery life, lasting up to 2 weeks compared to the Fenix 3, which has a battery life ranging from 50 hours to 6 weeks.
Which device is more suitable for serious athletes: Garmin Fenix 3 or Forerunner 935?
The Garmin Forerunner 935 is more suitable for serious athletes due to its advanced fitness tracking features and lightweight design.
Can I track my heart rate with Garmin Fenix 3?
The Garmin Fenix 3 does not have an onboard heart rate monitor, but it is compatible with heart rate chest straps for tracking.
Do both devices offer music function?
Yes, both the Garmin Fenix 3 and Forerunner 935 offer a music function for listening to your favorite tunes during workouts.
Are both watches water-resistant?
Yes, the Garmin Fenix 3 has a water resistance rating of 10 ATM, while the Forerunner 935 has a rating of 5 ATM, making them suitable for water activities such as swimming.
