Comparing Forerunner 935 and Vivoactive
Garmin Forerunner 935 and Garmin Vivoactive are two popular smartwatches focused on fitness enthusiasts. These wearable devices come packed with features to help track and improve performance in various exercise routines. When it comes to picking the right watch for your needs, several factors such as design, features, and price need to be considered.
Garmin, a leading brand in GPS technology, has been transferring its expertise to sports and fitness wearables. The company has built a reputation for producing reliable, high-quality fitness trackers and smartwatches that cater to different user profiles. Before delving into the details comparison of Garmin Forerunner 935 and Garmin Vivoactive, let’s discuss the brands, their history, and reputations.
This comprehensive content piece will cover design and build, features and functionality, user interface and experience, and the price and value of both smartwatches. Armed with this information, you will be able to make an informed decision on which wearable device best meets your requirements.
Design and Build
Garmin Forerunner 935
Materials: Fiber-reinforced polymer case, Silicone strap
Size: 47 x 47 x 13.9 mm
Weight: 49 g
Display: 240 x 240 pixels, 1.2 inches, sunlight-visible, transflective, memory-in-pixel (MIP)
Garmin Vivoactive
Materials: Plastic case, Silicone strap
Size: 43.8 x 38.5 x 8 mm
Weight: 18 g
Display: 205 x 148 pixels, 1.38 inches, sunlight-readable, color touch screen
Comparison of design and build quality
Both watches sport similar designs, utilizing durable materials like fiber-reinforced polymer and plastic casings with silicone straps. However, the Forerunner 935 is larger and slightly heavier than the Vivoactive, providing a bigger display with higher resolution. They each have sunlight-readable screens, ensuring visibility during outdoor activities. One key difference is that the Forerunner 935 features a transflective memory-in-pixel display, allowing for better battery life.
Features and Functionality
Garmin Forerunner 935
Operating system: Proprietary OS
Sensors: GPS, GLONASS, heart rate monitor, barometer, thermometer, accelerometer, gyroscope, compass
Battery life: Up to 2 weeks
Fitness tracking: Running, cycling, swimming, multisport, sleep, oxygen levels, steps, calories, distance
Garmin Vivoactive
Operating system: Proprietary OS
Sensors: GPS, heart rate monitor, accelerometer
Battery life: 14 hours to 11 days
Fitness tracking: Running, cycling, swimming, golf, sleep, steps, calories, distance
Comparison of features and performance
Both smartwatches share a proprietary Garmin operating system and offer a robust selection of fitness tracking options, including running, swimming, and cycling. The Forerunner 935 boasts additional tracking features, such as oxygen levels and multisport tracking, and more sensors, like the barometer and thermometer. Battery life is similar, with both devices capable of lasting up to 2 weeks on a single charge. GPS functionality is available on both watches, with the Forerunner 935 also supporting GLONASS for improved tracking accuracy.
User Interface and User Experience
Garmin Forerunner 935
Display: 240 x 240 pixels, 1.2 inches, sunlight-visible, transflective, memory-in-pixel (MIP)
Navigation: Five physical buttons
Apps and customization: Connect IQ support for watch faces, apps, and widgets
Compatibility: Android, iOS, Windows Phone
Garmin Vivoactive
Display: 205 x 148 pixels, 1.38 inches, sunlight-readable, color touch screen
Navigation: Touchscreen and one physical button
Apps and customization: Limited preloaded apps, no support for third-party apps
Compatibility: Android, iOS
Comparison of user interface and user experience
The user interface of the Garmin Forerunner 935 includes a high-resolution display and five physical buttons, allowing for quick navigation of features. In contrast, the Vivoactive provides a touchscreen interface alongside a single physical button. The Forerunner 935 offers a more customizable experience with the availability of Connect IQ for watch faces, apps, and widgets, while the Vivoactive has limited preloaded apps and no third-party app support. Both devices are compatible with Android and iOS smartphones.
Price and Value
Garmin Forerunner 935
Cost: $500
Value for money: Geared towards serious athletes who require advanced tracking and customization
Garmin Vivoactive
Cost: $250
Value for money: Designed for fitness enthusiasts looking for essential tracking features at a lower price point
Comparison of price and value
The Forerunner 935 offers advanced tracking features and customization at a higher price point, catering to those serious about their sport. Conversely, the Vivoactive provides essential tracking features and a lower price, making it more ideal for users who require entry-level fitness monitoring.
Conclusion
The Garmin Forerunner 935 and Vivoactive cater to different user profiles. For dedicated athletes seeking advanced tracking and customization options, the Forerunner 935 may be worth the higher investment. On the other hand, the Vivoactive offers essential tracking features and a lower price point, suitable for users who require basic monitoring capabilities. Making a decision between these two smartwatches comes down to individual priorities, personal preferences, and budget constraints.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which watch is more suitable for triathlon training?
The Garmin Forerunner 935 is more suitable for triathlon training, as it offers multisport tracking features and a more extensive sensor array.
Does the Vivoactive support third-party apps?
No, the Vivoactive does not support third-party apps and only comes with preloaded apps.
Can I use these watches for swim tracking?
Yes, both the Garmin Forerunner 935 and Vivoactive are water-resistant up to 5 ATM and offer swim tracking features.
Do either of these watches have music storage and playback capabilities?
Both the Garmin Forerunner 935 and Vivoactive support music playback, but only when connected to a compatible smartphone. Neither device has onboard music storage.
Can I receive notifications on these watches when connected to my smartphone?
Yes, both the Garmin Forerunner 935 and Vivoactive can display smartphone notifications such as calls, text messages, and emails when connected via Bluetooth.