Comparing Vivosmart HR Plus and Forerunner 225
When choosing a watch or wearable, the Garmin Forerunner 225 and Garmin Vivosmart HR Plus are two popular options. These devices have earned a strong reputation for providing precise fitness tracking and reliable performance. With Garmin being a major player in the world of wearables, it’s important to understand the key differences and similarities between these two devices to determine which one is the best fit for your needs.
Selecting the right watch can be crucial in achieving your fitness goals and staying connected in your daily life. Garmin, a well-known brand in the wearables industry, has established itself as a reliable producer of high-quality devices. The brand has a rich history in providing top-notch GPS and navigation products, and this expertise extends to their lineup of wearable devices as well.
In this article, we’ll take a closer look at the Garmin Forerunner 225 and the Garmin Vivosmart HR Plus, discussing their design, features, user experience, and value, to help you make an informed decision on which device is right for you.
Design and Build
Garmin Forerunner 225
The Garmin Forerunner 225 features a sturdy and sporty design. Key characteristics include:
- Materials: Durable plastic casing and silicone strap
- Size and weight: 48mm x 48mm x 16mm, 54g
- Display: 1-inch color LCD screen, 180 x 180 resolution
Garmin Vivosmart HR Plus
The Garmin Vivosmart HR Plus has a sleek and compact design, with the following attributes:
- Materials: Rugged plastic housing and silicone band
- Size and weight: 30mm x 57mm x 11mm, 31g
- Display: 0.5 inches x 0.8 inches monochrome LCD touchscreen, 160 x 68 resolution
Comparison of design and build quality
While both wearables are made from similar materials and have water resistance up to 5 ATM, the Garmin Forerunner 225 has a more rugged, sporty design, suitable for outdoor activities. On the other hand, the Vivosmart HR Plus sports a slimmer, sleeker look that may be more fitting for everyday wear. The Forerunner 225 features a color display, while the Vivosmart HR Plus has a monochrome touchscreen.
Features and Functionality
Garmin Forerunner 225
The Garmin Forerunner 225 offers numerous features for fitness enthusiasts, including:
- Operating system: Garmin’s proprietary OS
- Sensors: GPS, accelerometer, and optical heart rate monitor
- Battery life: 10 hours in training mode, up to 4 weeks in watch mode
- Fitness tracking: calories, distance, heart rate tracking, sleep and steps
- Cycling tracking: Yes
Garmin Vivosmart HR Plus
The Garmin Vivosmart HR Plus is packed with features that cater to a wide variety of users, such as:
- Operating system: Garmin’s proprietary OS
- Sensors: GPS, accelerometer, barometric altimeter, and optical heart rate monitor
- Battery life: Up to 5 days
- Fitness tracking: calories, distance, heart rate, sleep, and steps
- Cycling tracking: No
Comparison of features and performance
Both devices share many fitness tracking features, such as calories, distance, heart rate, sleep, and steps. The Forerunner 225 has the added benefit of cycling tracking, while the Vivosmart HR Plus includes a barometric altimeter sensor. In terms of battery life, the Forerunner 225 lasts longer, particularly in watch mode. Both devices are compatible with Android, iOS, and Windows smartphones, and offer basic notification features, such as call and text alerts.
User Interface and User Experience
Garmin Forerunner 225
The Garmin Forerunner 225 offers a user-friendly interface, with the following features:
- Display: 1-inch color LCD with 180 x 180 resolution
- Navigation: Button-based navigation
- Apps and customization: Limited customization options
- Smartphone compatibility: Android and iOS
Garmin Vivosmart HR Plus
The Garmin Vivosmart HR Plus provides an easy-to-use experience, with features such as:
- Display: 0.5 inches x 0.8 inches monochrome LCD touchscreen with 160 x 68 resolution
- Navigation: Touch-based navigation
- Apps and customization: Limited customization options
- Smartphone compatibility: Android, iOS, and Windows phones
Comparison of user interface and user experience
The main difference in user experience between the two devices is the Forerunner 225's button-based navigation and color display, compared to the Vivosmart HR Plus’s touch-based navigation and monochrome screen. Both devices have limited customization options and are compatible with major smartphone platforms. The Vivosmart HR Plus offers compatibility with a wider range of smartphones, including Windows phones.
Price and Value
Garmin Forerunner 225
At a price of $300, the Garmin Forerunner 225 offers robust fitness tracking capabilities and a longer battery life, which may appeal to fitness enthusiasts and outdoor adventurers.
Garmin Vivosmart HR Plus
With a price of $179, the Garmin Vivosmart HR Plus provides excellent value for everyday users who want a compact, stylish tracker with essential fitness tracking features and notifications.
Comparison of price and value
While the Garmin Forerunner 225 offers more advanced features and longer battery life, it comes at a higher price. The Garmin Vivosmart HR Plus provides a more affordable option with a sleek design and essential fitness tracking capabilities, making it a great choice for everyday use without compromising quality.
Conclusion
When choosing between the Garmin Forerunner 225 and Garmin Vivosmart HR Plus, it ultimately comes down to personal preferences and intended use. For fitness enthusiasts and athletes who prioritize advanced tracking features and longer battery life, the Forerunner 225 is the clear choice. However, for everyday users who prefer a sleek, compact design without compromising essential features, the Vivosmart HR Plus offers excellent value at a more affordable price point.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which device has better battery life?
The Garmin Forerunner 225 offers a longer battery life, with up to 10 hours in training mode and up to 4 weeks in watch mode compared to the Vivosmart HR Plus’s 5-day battery life.
Do both devices have GPS?
Yes, both the Garmin Forerunner 225 and Vivosmart HR Plus feature built-in GPS for tracking distance and routes.
Which device is better for cycling?
The Garmin Forerunner 225 includes cycling tracking features which make it a better choice for cyclists, while the Vivosmart HR Plus does not offer this functionality.
Are both devices water-resistant?
Yes, both the Garmin Forerunner 225 and Vivosmart HR Plus are water-resistant up to 5 ATM, suitable for swimming, showering, and other water-based activities.
Can I receive notifications on both devices?
Both the Forerunner 225 and the Vivosmart HR Plus offer basic notification features, such as call and text alerts, when paired with a compatible smartphone.
