Comparing Vivosmart HR Plus and Fenix 3
When exploring the world of fitness wearables, Garmin stands out as a leading brand. With an extensive range of smartwatches and fitness trackers, Garmin caters to various user needs. This article will provide a comprehensive comparison between the Garmin Fenix 3 and the Garmin Vivosmart HR Plus to help you choose the right device to match your requirements.
The importance of selecting the appropriate watch cannot be overstated, as it will support you in achieving your fitness goals and provide a seamless user experience. Garmin has an impressive brand history and has built a strong reputation in the wearables industry for producing high-quality, durable, and reliable products.
Throughout this article, we will compare the design, build, features, user interface, price, value, and frequently asked questions about these two Garmin devices.
Design and Build:
Garmin Fenix 3
Materials: Stainless steel bezel, fiber-reinforced polymer case, and silicone bands Size and weight: 51 x 51 x 16 mm, 82 g Display/Screen information: Chroma LED, 1.2-inch, 218 x 218 pixels resolution
Garmin Vivosmart HR Plus
Materials: Polymer case and silicone bands Size and weight: 21 x 15 x 190 mm, 31 g Display/Screen information: LCD, 0.5 inches x 0.8 inches, 160 x 68 pixels resolution
Comparison of design and build quality:
Similarities: Both devices feature a polymer case and silicone bands, ensuring comfort and durability. Differences: The Fenix 3 has a larger size and weight, stainless steel bezel, and a more refined display, while the Vivosmart HR Plus offers a smaller, lightweight design with an LCD screen. Pros and cons: The Fenix 3 offers a more rugged and premium design suitable for outdoor enthusiasts, while the Vivosmart HR Plus provides a sleek and lightweight option for everyday use.
Features and Functionality:
Garmin Fenix 3:
Operating system: Proprietary Sensors: Accelerometer, barometer/altimeter, GPS, and heart rate (with optional chest strap) Battery life: 50 hours to 6 weeks (dependent on settings and usage) Fitness tracking: Calories, distance, steps, sleep, swimming, cycling Other features: Clock, phone function, texts, emails, music, Wi-Fi, Bluetooth
Garmin Vivosmart HR Plus:
Operating system: Proprietary Sensors: Accelerometer, barometer/altimeter, GPS, heart rate Battery life: Up to 5 days Fitness tracking: Calories, distance, steps, sleep, heart rate Other features: Clock, phone function, texts, emails, music, Bluetooth
Comparison of features and performance:
Similarities: Both devices offer essential fitness tracking features like calories, distance, steps, and sleep, as well as phone functions, texts, and emails. Differences: The Fenix 3 provides additional fitness tracking for swimming and cycling, longer battery life, and Wi-Fi connectivity, while the Vivosmart HR Plus offers built-in heart rate monitoring. Pros and cons: The Fenix 3 caters better to multisport athletes and outdoor enthusiasts with its more extensive feature set, while the Vivosmart HR Plus provides the basics for everyday users, including heart rate tracking.
User Interface and User Experience:
Garmin Fenix 3:
Display: Chroma LED Navigation: Physical buttons Apps and customization: Garmin Connect IQ, customizable watch faces, and data fields Compatibility with smartphones: Android, iOS
Garmin Vivosmart HR Plus:
Display: LCD Navigation: Touchscreen and physical button Apps and customization: Limited app compatibility, no customization options Compatibility with smartphones: Android, iOS, Windows Phone
Comparison of user interface and user experience:
Similarities: Both devices feature smartphone compatibility and offer key notifications and fitness data tracking. Differences: The Fenix 3 provides a more refined display, additional app compatibility, and customization options, while the Vivosmart HR Plus offers touchscreen navigation and is compatible with Windows Phone. Pros and cons: The Fenix 3 offers a more advanced user interface and experience with its customizability, while the Vivosmart HR Plus is simpler and easier to use with touchscreen navigation.
Price and Value:
Garmin Fenix 3:
Cost: $500 Value for money: Offers a wide range of features, suited for outdoor enthusiasts and multisport athletes.
Garmin Vivosmart HR Plus:
Cost: $179 Value for money: Provides essential fitness tracking features at an affordable price, suitable for everyday users.
Comparison of price and value:
Similarities: Both devices cater to different user needs, offering respective value for the price. Differences: The Fenix 3 has a higher price tag due to its advanced feature set, while the Vivosmart HR Plus is more budget-friendly. Pros and cons: The Fenix 3 may be worth the investment for those seeking a rugged, versatile device, while the Vivosmart HR Plus offers good value for those who want essential fitness tracking without breaking the bank.
FAQs:
Q: Is Garmin Fenix 3 suitable for swimming?
A: Yes, Garmin Fenix 3 is water-resistant up to 10 ATM and offers swim tracking features.
Q: Does Garmin Vivosmart HR Plus have built-in heart rate monitoring?
A: Yes, Garmin Vivosmart HR Plus has built-in heart rate tracking.
Q: Can Garmin Fenix 3 sync data with smartphones?
A: Yes, Garmin Fenix 3 is compatible with Android and iOS smartphones.
Q: Does Garmin Vivosmart HR Plus support third-party apps?
A: Garmin Vivosmart HR Plus has limited app compatibility and does not support third-party apps like Garmin Fenix 3.
Q: Which device is more suitable for outdoor use, Garmin Fenix 3 or Garmin Vivosmart HR Plus?
A: Garmin Fenix 3 is more suitable for outdoor use due to its rugged design, multiple sports tracking features, and extensive battery life.
