Comparing Fenix 5X and Fenix 5s Plus
When it comes to choosing a fitness tracker or smartwatch, Garmin is a popular brand that has a reputation for producing high-quality devices that cater to a variety of needs. In this article, we’ll be discussing two of their popular models: the Garmin Fenix 5s Plus and the Garmin Fenix 5X. Knowing the differences and similarities between these two devices is crucial if you’re considering investing in one of them.
Garmin is well-known in the fitness community, having been a trailblazer in fitness technology since its inception in 1989. Over the years, Garmin has continued to innovate and improve their products, making them a prominent choice for athletes and fitness enthusiasts worldwide. We’ll be delving into the details of these two Garmin devices, providing comprehensive information to help you make an informed decision.
Design and Build
Garmin Fenix 5s Plus
The Fenix 5s Plus features a stainless steel bezel, weighs 65 grams, and measures 42 x 42 x 15.4 mm. The display is a 1.2-inch MIP (Memory-in-Pixel) color screen with 240 x 240 pixel resolution. The watch is very lightweight and designed for comfort throughout long workouts.
Garmin Fenix 5X
The Fenix 5X is slightly larger and heavier than the 5s Plus, with a 51 x 51 x 17.5 mm dimension and weighing 98 grams. The display is also a 1.2-inch color screen with 240 x 240-pixel resolution. The watch is made from a rugged stainless steel construction, making it more durable and suitable for intense activities.
Comparison of design and build quality
When comparing the two devices, the Fenix 5X is larger and has a more rugged design than the Fenix 5s Plus, making it more suitable for those who participate in intense outdoor activities. However, the Fenix 5s Plus is lighter and more compact, which might be preferable for users with smaller wrists or those primarily interested in tracking basic fitness metrics.
Features and Functionality
Garmin Fenix 5s Plus
The Fenix 5s Plus runs on the Wear OS operating system and features various sensors such as the heart rate monitor, barometric altimeter, and accelerometer. It also boasts up to 7 days of battery life in smartwatch mode. Fitness tracking features include calorie, distance, steps, and sleep tracking, along with swimming, cycling, and heart rate monitoring, as well as oxygen tracking.
Garmin Fenix 5X
The Fenix 5X shares many features with the Fenix 5s Plus, such as distance, steps, and sleep tracking, swimming, cycling, and heart rate monitoring, and calorie tracking. Battery life on the Fenix 5X is slightly longer than the 5s Plus, at up to 12 days of use in smartwatch mode. GPS, Wi-Fi, and Bluetooth capabilities are available on both devices.
Comparison of features and performance
Both the Fenix 5s Plus and Fenix 5X share similar features and fitness tracking capabilities. The primary differences lie in battery life and design, with the Fenix 5s Plus being lighter and more compact, while the Fenix 5X is more rugged and offers longer battery life.
User Interface and User Experience
Garmin Fenix 5s Plus
The 5s Plus offers a touchscreen display, easy-to-use navigation buttons, customization options through the Connect IQ app store, and compatibility with both Android and iOS smartphones. The watch also features an audio speaker, vibration alerts, and phone functions such as emails and text messages.
Garmin Fenix 5X
Like the 5s Plus, the Fenix 5X features a touchscreen display, navigation buttons, a customizable interface through the Connect IQ app store, and compatibility with Android and iOS devices. Vibration notifications, emails, and text functions are also available on the 5X.
Comparison of user interface and user experience
The user interfaces and experiences of the 5s Plus and the 5X are quite similar, sharing many features and functionalities, such as the touchscreen display, app store access, and smartphone compatibility. Both devices provide excellent user experiences with intuitive navigation and customization options.
Price and Value
Garmin Fenix 5s Plus
With a price point of $799, the Fenix 5s Plus offers numerous fitness tracking features and a lightweight design that cater to a wide variety of users.
Garmin Fenix 5X
The Fenix 5X comes in at a slightly lower price of $699 and offers a more rugged design and longer battery life, providing excellent value for users seeking a durable device.
Comparison of price and value
Both the Fenix 5s Plus and Fenix 5X are excellent options for fitness enthusiasts. The choice between the two can depend on personal preferences, such as design and battery life, with the 5s Plus being more lightweight and compact, while the 5X offers a rugged design and longer battery life. Price-wise, the Fenix 5X is more affordable, but both devices offer significant value for their costs.
Conclusion
Ultimately, the decision between the Garmin Fenix 5s Plus and the Fenix 5X depends on your preferences, fitness goals, and budget. Both watches offer excellent fitness tracking capabilities, smartphone compatibility, and ease of use. If you prefer a more lightweight and compact design, the Fenix 5s Plus is the better option. However, if you need a more durable watch with a longer battery life, the Fenix 5X is the way to go. No matter which of these Garmin devices you choose, you’ll be investing in a high-quality fitness tracker to support your healthy lifestyle.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are both the Garmin Fenix 5s Plus and Fenix 5X water-resistant?
Yes, both the Fenix 5s Plus and Fenix 5X have a water resistance rating of 10 ATM, making them suitable for activities like swimming and water sports.
Do both watches have built-in GPS?
Yes, both the Fenix 5s Plus and Fenix 5X come equipped with built-in GPS functionality for accurate tracking and navigation during outdoor activities.
Are both devices compatible with Windows phones?
The Fenix 5s Plus is not compatible with Windows phones, while the Fenix 5X does offer compatibility with Windows phones.
Can you control music on both the Fenix 5s Plus and Fenix 5X?
Yes, both devices allow you to control your music, offering convenient access to your playlists and songs during workouts and everyday use.
Do they both offer phone functionality?
Yes, both the Fenix 5s Plus and Fenix 5X offer phone functionality, enabling you to receive emails, text messages, and other phone notifications for added convenience.
