Comparing Fenix 5s Plus and Forerunner 735XT
When it comes to finding the perfect wearable companion to meet your fitness and lifestyle needs, Garmin has been the go-to brand for many, for its reputation for crafting premium GPS-enabled fitness watches. Today, we are comparing two popular models from Garmin – the Fenix 5s Plus and the Forerunner 735XT – to help you determine the best option for you based on their critical features that support a seamless fitness journey, while providing value for money.
Choosing the right watch is essential, as it plays a significant role in tracking your progress, motivating you, and improving your performance. The right fitness watch can provide you with valuable insights and make your fitness journey both enjoyable and rewarding.
Garmin has been a forerunner in the wearable industry for years, consistently offering high-quality and reliable devices that cater to various needs. With a strong emphasis on quality and innovation, Garmin has been able to maintain its reputation as a market leader, delivering top-notch user experiences and setting the bar high for its competitors.
Throughout this comprehensive article, we will discuss the strengths, features, and performance of both Garmin Fenix 5s Plus and Garmin Forerunner 735XT to help you make an informed decision when purchasing your next fitness watch.
Design and Build
Garmin Fenix 5s Plus
The Garmin Fenix 5s Plus embodies a rugged design that meets the expectations of outdoor enthusiasts. The watch features durable stainless-steel construction, and its case size measures at 42mm in diameter. Weighing 67 grams, it showcases a 1.2-inch display with 240x240-pixel resolution, making the screen easy to read even in bright outdoor conditions.
Garmin Forerunner 735XT
On the other hand, the Garmin Forerunner 735XT presents a sleeker and lighter design, weighing just 40.2 grams. This watch comes with a 44mm case diameter and features a 1.23-inch display with a slightly lower resolution of 215x180 pixels. The choice of materials and overall finish contributes to the device’s lightweight nature, making it perfect for users who prefer a minimalist approach.
Comparison of design and build quality
While both devices showcase unique designs that cater to specific user preferences, the Fenix 5s Plus is slightly superior in terms of build quality and materials. Despite being slightly heavier, it exhibits a durable and rugged construction that is suitable for extreme outdoor conditions. In contrast, the Forerunner 735XT opts for a simpler design, focusing on maintaining a lightweight and comfortable feel on the wrist. Ultimately, the choice between the two is subjective and depends on your personal style preferences and intended use.
Features and Functionality
Garmin Fenix 5s Plus
With the Garmin Fenix 5s Plus, you will experience a plethora of features that make it a versatile fitness tracker. Running on Wear OS, this watch comes with GPS, GLONASS and Galileo support, various sensors for activity tracking, and up to 7 days of battery life. Its fitness tracking capabilities include monitoring calories, cycling, distance, heart rate, oxygen, sleep, steps, and swimming.
Garmin Forerunner 735XT
The Garmin Forerunner 735XT, while slightly older than its counterpart, still boasts an impressive array of features. Including GPS functionality, an array of activity tracking capabilities, and a battery life that ranges between 14 hours and 11 days depending on usage. The notable difference when compared to the Fenix 5s Plus is the absence of an oxygen tracking sensor.
Comparison of features and performance
Both the Fenix 5s Plus and the Forerunner 735XT exhibit a comprehensive set of features, making them excellent devices for fitness enthusiasts. While the Fenix 5s Plus has the added benefit of oxygen tracking, it comes at a higher price point compared to the Forerunner 735XT. Each device has its pros and cons, and your decision should be based on your personal requirements and budget constraints.
User Interface and User Experience
Garmin Fenix 5s Plus
The user experience on the Fenix 5s Plus is top-notch, featuring a clear and easily navigable display. The watch offers plenty of apps and customization options, including compatibility with both Android and iOS smartphones. However, it does not support Mac or Windows compatibility.
Garmin Forerunner 735XT
Similarly, the Forerunner 735XT offers an intuitive user interface and a range of customizable options. It is compatible with both Android and iOS smartphones but, like the Fenix 5s Plus, is not compatible with Mac or Windows systems.
Comparison of user interface and user experience
When it comes to user interface and experience, both the Fenix 5s Plus and Forerunner 735XT deliver high-quality interactions, ease of use, and compatibility. While the differences in the display and software may be marginal, the choice between the two devices will depend on an individual’s specific needs and preferences.
Price and Value
Garmin Fenix 5s Plus
At a price of $799, the Garmin Fenix 5s Plus is naturally placed within the higher end of the market in terms of cost. Its rugged design, premium build quality, and complete feature set make it a valuable investment for users who seek a comprehensive and durable fitness watch.
Garmin Forerunner 735XT
Alternatively, the Garmin Forerunner 735XT comes at a more affordable price point, $450, without compromising on quality or essential features. While it may lack some of the Fenix 5s Plus attributes, it still offers an impressive performance at a lower cost.
Comparison of price and value
Deciding between the Garmin Fenix 5s Plus and the Forerunner 735XT will significantly hinge on both your personal preferences and your budget. If you are willing to spend more money for a premium fitness watch with a rugged design and extensive features, the Fenix 5s Plus is the right choice. However, if you prefer a lighter design and a lower price tag without sacrificing essential functions, the Forerunner 735XT is an excellent alternative.
Conclusion
Overall, both the Garmin Fenix 5s Plus and Forerunner 735XT are exceptional fitness trackers that cater to various user needs. By weighing the unique features, design, performance, and costs of each watch, you can effectively determine the ideal fitness companion for your personal journey. Either option will equip you with the tools to track your progress, improve your performance, and get the most from your workouts.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do both watches support GPS tracking?
Yes, both the Garmin Fenix 5s Plus and Forerunner 735XT come with built-in GPS tracking capabilities.
Are they compatible with both Android and iOS smartphones?
Yes, both the Fenix 5s Plus and the Forerunner 735XT are compatible with Android and iOS smartphones.
What is the main difference between the Garmin Fenix 5s Plus and the Forerunner 735XT?
The significant difference is the Fenix 5s Plus comes with a more rugged design, premium build quality, and additional features such as oxygen tracking. However, these features come at a higher price point than the Forerunner 735XT.
Do they offer water resistance for swimming?
Yes, the Fenix 5s Plus is water-resistant up to 10 ATM, while the Forerunner 735XT is water-resistant up to 5 ATM.
What is the battery life for these watches?
The Fenix 5s Plus has a battery life of up to 7 days, while the Forerunner 735XT offers a battery life ranging from 14 hours up to 11 days, depending on usage.
