Garmin Forerunner 235 vs. Garmin Vivosport

 
Forerunner 235
Vivosport
 GarminForerunner 235Buy NowGarminVivosportBuy Now

Basic Info

Suggested Price$299.99$199
Release20172017

Activity & Fitness

Calories
Cycling (Bicycling)
Distance
Heart
Oxygen
Sleep
Steps
Swim

Battery

Duration9 days7 days
Rechargeable

Compatibility

Android
iOS
Windows Phone
Mac
Windows

Connectivity

Bluetooth
Cellular
GPS
NFC
Wi-Fi

Display

Color
Resolution215 x 18072 x 144
Size1.23 inchesNA
Touch
TypeMIPMIP

Functions

Audio Speaker
Clock
Phone
Vibration
Voice

Hardware

Accelerometer
Barometer or Altimeter
Ultraviolet Sensor
Water Resistance5 ATM5 ATM

Notifications

Phone
Emails
Texts

Software

Operating System
Apps
Music

Comparing Vivosport and Forerunner 235

When considering a fitness tracker or smartwatch, the Garmin Forerunner 235 and the Garmin Vivosport are two popular options worth considering. Each device has unique features and capabilities, so it’s crucial to choose the one that best suits your needs and preferences. Both products come from the reputable brand Garmin, known for its high-quality devices, exceptional performance, and innovative features.

The importance of choosing the right watch or fitness tracker cannot be overstated. The right device can make all the difference when it comes to achieving your health and fitness goals, as well as being a great tool for everyday use. As such, you’ll want to ensure that the device you choose is capable of meeting your requirements and preferences.

Garmin is a well-established brand with a long history of producing reliable and innovative wearable technology. Known for its GPS and sports watches, Garmin has expanded its range to include versatile fitness trackers to suit a wide range of needs. With a strong reputation for quality and performance, any Garmin product is sure to be a valuable addition to your fitness journey.

In this article, we will be discussing the design and build, features and functionalities, user interface and user experience, price and value, as well as some frequently asked questions, of the Garmin Forerunner 235 and the Garmin Vivosport.

Design and Build

Garmin Forerunner 235

The Garmin Forerunner 235 is made with lightweight and high-quality materials, allowing for ultimate comfort during extended use. With a display size of 1.23 inches and a resolution of 215 x 180 pixels, it provides clear visuals without being too bulky. The MIP (Memory-In-Pixel) screen ensures excellent visibility both indoors and in bright sunlight conditions. In terms of weight, the Forerunner 235 is comfortable to wear, making it suitable for everyday use and fitness activities.

Garmin Vivosport

Similar to the Forerunner 235, the Garmin Vivosport’s design is lightweight and sleek, making it comfortable for all-day wear. The Vivosport features a slim touchscreen display with a resolution of 72 x 144 pixels. As with the Forerunner 235, the display utilizes MIP technology for easy reading under various lighting conditions. The device’s size and design make it a stylish option suitable for a range of activities and occasions.

Comparison of design and build quality

Both the Garmin Forerunner 235 and Vivosport have similar design aesthetics, with lightweight materials and comfortable wearability. The primary differences lie in the display size and resolution, with the Forerunner 235 having a slightly larger and higher-resolution screen. Each device’s build quality is excellent, and both are water-resistant up to 5 ATM, making them suitable for use in various conditions and activities.

Features and Functionality

Garmin Forerunner 235

With an array of features and functionalities, the Garmin Forerunner 235 is a versatile fitness tracker and smartwatch. It offers GPS, calories tracking, cycling, distance, heart rate, oxygen, sleep, steps, and swim tracking, making it a comprehensive fitness companion. The device also boasts a battery life of up to 9 days and is compatible with both Android and iOS smartphones. Furthermore, it provides various functions, such as phone, email, and text notifications, via Bluetooth connectivity.

Garmin Vivosport

The Garmin Vivosport also offers a wide range of features and tracking capabilities, including GPS, calories, cycling, distance, heart rate, oxygen, sleep, steps, and swim tracking. It has a slightly shorter battery life of up to 7 days and is compatible with Android and iOS smartphones, just like the Forerunner 235. The Vivosport also provides phone, email, and text notifications through Bluetooth but does not include app functionality as seen in the Forerunner 235.

Comparison of features and performance

Both the Forerunner 235 and Vivosport boast numerous features and tracking capabilities, making them highly versatile fitness trackers. While they share many similarities, the Forerunner 235 edges out the Vivosport in terms of battery life and app functionality. However, both devices are highly capable and offer excellent performance for a range of fitness activities and everyday use.

User Interface and User Experience

Garmin Forerunner 235

The Garmin Forerunner 235 offers a user-friendly interface with customizable watch faces and easy navigation through its touchscreen display. It is compatible with both Android and iOS smartphones, allowing for seamless integration with your chosen device. The device also has app functionality, broadening its range of capabilities and enhancing the overall user experience.

Garmin Vivosport

Like the Forerunner 235, the Garmin Vivosport features an easy-to-navigate touchscreen interface and compatibility with Android and iOS smartphones. However, it lacks the app functionality found in the Forerunner 235, making it a more streamlined option in terms of user experience.

Comparison of user interface and user experience

Both the Garmin Forerunner 235 and Vivosport offer similar user interfaces and experiences, with easy touchscreen navigation and smartphone compatibility. However, the primary difference comes down to the app functionality offered by the Forerunner 235, providing added versatility and engagement for the user.

Price and Value

Garmin Forerunner 235

With a price tag of $299.99, the Garmin Forerunner 235 offers excellent value for money given its range of features and advanced tracking capabilities. The device is a solid investment for anyone serious about their fitness journey and looking for a reliable, versatile tracker.

Garmin Vivosport

At a slightly lower price point of $199, the Garmin Vivosport provides many of the same features as the Forerunner 235 but with a more streamlined user experience. This makes it an excellent value for those who prefer a simplified option without compromising on quality and performance.

Comparison of price and value

While both the Garmin Forerunner 235 and Vivosport are priced relatively close together, the decision ultimately comes down to personal preference and the desired level of functionality. The Forerunner 235 may provide a better value for those seeking more robust features, while the Vivosport serves as a more budget-friendly option without sacrificing performance and quality.

Conclusion

Ultimately, both the Garmin Forerunner 235 and Garmin Vivosport are excellent choices for fitness trackers and smartwatches. Depending on the desired level of functionality and preferred user experience, one may be a better fit than the other. For those seeking a more comprehensive feature set and app functionality, the Forerunner 235 is the way to go. However, for a more streamlined and budget-friendly option, the Vivosport is still a highly capable and reliable device.

Frequently Asked Questions

Which device is better for runners, the Garmin Forerunner 235 or Garmin Vivosport?

Both devices are suitable for runners, offering GPS tracking and various fitness tracking features. However, the Garmin Forerunner 235 may provide more extensive features and app functionality, making it a slightly better option for dedicated runners.

Can I use the Garmin Forerunner 235 or Garmin Vivosport for swimming?

Yes, both devices are water-resistant up to 5 ATM, making them suitable for swimming activities. They both include swim tracking to monitor your progress in the pool.

Can I receive notifications from my phone on the Garmin Forerunner 235 and Garmin Vivosport?

Yes, both devices are compatible with Android and iOS smartphones and can receive notifications for phone calls, texts, and emails via Bluetooth connectivity.

Do I need to have my phone with me to use the GPS on the Garmin Forerunner 235 or Garmin Vivosport?

No, both devices have built-in GPS, allowing you to track your activities without needing to carry your phone.

Can I listen to music on the Forerunner 235 or Vivosport?

Both devices have music functionality, allowing you to control music playback on your smartphone. However, they do not store music files directly on the device itself.

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