Comparing Forerunner 935 and Fenix 5
When choosing the perfect smartwatch, having options like the Garmin Fenix 5 and the Garmin Forerunner 935 can make the decision even more challenging. Both watches come from the esteemed brand Garmin, which is well-regarded for its high-quality smartwatches and fitness trackers.
Selecting the right watch can greatly impact one’s fitness journey and overall satisfaction. This is why it is crucial to dive deep into the features and specifications of both options at hand to determine which one will best suit one’s needs.
In this detailed comparison, we will discuss the design and build, features and functionality, user interface and experience, price and value, as well as tackle some frequently asked questions of both the Garmin Fenix 5 and the Garmin Forerunner 935. This should equip you with enough knowledge to make an informed decision on which watch will serve your needs better.
Design and Build
Garmin Fenix 5
- Materials used: Fiber-reinforced polymer with stainless steel rear cover
- Size: 47mm x 47mm x 15.5mm
- Weight: 85g
- Display/Screen information: 1.2-inch, 240 x 240 pixel color display
Garmin Forerunner 935
- Materials used: Fiber-reinforced polymer with stainless steel rear cover
- Size: 47mm x 47mm x 13.9mm
- Weight: 49g
- Display/Screen information: 1.2-inch, 240 x 240 pixel color display
Comparison of design and build quality
Both the Fenix 5 and Forerunner 935 share the same sophisticated design language and sport premium materials. However, the Fenix 5 is slightly heavier and slightly thicker than the Forerunner 935, which may be a decisive factor for some users. The display and screen resolution are identical, ensuring that both watches provide clear and bright visuals.
Features and Functionality
Garmin Fenix 5
- Operating System: N/A
- Sensors: Heart rate monitor, Accelerometer, Barometer, GPS
- Battery Life: Up to 2 weeks
- Fitness Tracking: Calories, Cycling, Distance, Heart Monitoring, Oxygen Tracking, Sleep, Steps, Swim
- Other Features: Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, Color Display, Has Audio Speaker, Phone Function, Vibration
Garmin Forerunner 935
- Operating System: N/A
- Sensors: Heart rate monitor, Accelerometer, Barometer, GPS
- Battery Life: Up to 2 weeks
- Fitness Tracking: Calories, Cycling, Distance, Heart Monitoring, Oxygen Tracking, Sleep, Steps, Swim
- Other Features: Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, NFC, Color Display, Has Audio Speaker, Phone Function, Vibration
Comparison of features and performance
At first glance, the Fenix 5 and Forerunner 935 may have many similarities in features and performance. Both watches provide comprehensive fitness tracking for various activities and offer a battery life of up to two weeks. The standout difference between the two is the presence of NFC, which is available in the Forerunner 935 but not in the Fenix 5.
User Interface and User Experience
Garmin Fenix 5
- Display: 1.2-inch, 240 x 240 pixel color display
- Navigation: Physical Buttons
- Apps and Customization: Connect IQ support for custom apps, widgets, and watch faces
- Compatibility with smartphones: Android, iOS, and Windows Phone compatible
Garmin Forerunner 935
- Display: 1.2-inch, 240 x 240 pixel color display
- Navigation: Physical Buttons
- Apps and Customization: Connect IQ support for custom apps, widgets, and watch faces
- Compatibility with smartphones: Android, iOS, and Windows Phone compatible
Comparison of user interface and user experience
The user interface and experience for both the Fenix 5 and Forerunner 935 are quite similar. Both have a 1.2-inch color display, accessible through physical buttons for navigation. They also offer customizability with the Connect IQ platform, which lets users download apps, widgets, and watch faces. Compatibility with smartphones is identical, with both watches supporting Android, iOS, and Windows Phone devices.
Price and Value
Garmin Fenix 5
Cost: $599.99
Garmin Forerunner 935
Cost: $500
Comparison of price and value
The Fenix 5 comes at a slightly higher price point than the Forerunner 935. Considering their similar features and performance, choosing between the two will ultimately depend on personal preferences, such as design or the presence of NFC in the Forerunner 935.
Conclusion
Both the Garmin Fenix 5 and Forerunner 935 are excellent smartwatches with comprehensive fitness tracking capabilities and top-notch designs. The ultimate decision will boil down to individual preferences on design, weight, and the presence of NFC. As a potential customer, it is crucial to select the watch that best suits your requirements and provides the most value for your investment.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. How water-resistant are the Garmin Fenix 5 and Forerunner 935?
The Garmin Fenix 5 has a water resistance rating of 10 ATM, while the Forerunner 935 is rated 5 ATM.
2. Can I receive notifications from my smartphone on these watches?
Yes, both the Fenix 5 and Forerunner 935 support notifications from smartphones, including calls, texts, and emails.
3. Do both watches have touchscreens?
Both watches have a 1.2-inch color display, but they do not feature touchscreens. Navigation is done through physical buttons.
4. Can I listen to music with these watches?
Yes, both the Fenix 5 and Forerunner 935 have built-in music controls for your phone, but they do not have storage for music files.
5. How do I customize the watch faces on the Garmin Fenix 5 and Forerunner 935?
Users can customize the watch faces on both devices through the Connect IQ platform, which offers a variety of free and paid options to choose from.
