Comparing Vivofit 4 and Forerunner 935
The Garmin Forerunner 935 and Garmin Vivofit 4 are two popular fitness wearables designed to help users track their daily activities, monitor their health, and set fitness goals. Choosing the right watch is essential for getting the most out of these devices, and in this article, we will thoroughly compare the features, design, user experience, and other aspects of these two products.
Garmin is a renowned brand in the wearable technology market known for its high-quality products and innovative features. The brand has a strong reputation for designing products that cater to the needs of sports enthusiasts, fitness buffs, and anyone looking to track their day-to-day activities. Each product in Garmin’s lineup possesses unique features and capabilities tailored for different users, and understanding their key differences is crucial when making an informed decision.
Design and Build
Garmin Forerunner 935
The Forerunner 935 features a lightweight design made primarily with glass fiber reinforced with polymer, weighing in at 49 grams. Its display has a resolution of 240 x 240 pixels and is a 1.2-inch LCD screen, featuring a color display with touchscreen functionality.
Garmin Vivofit 4
On the other hand, the Vivofit 4 has a more basic design, with its case constructed from a sturdy plastic material. There are no specific figures on its size and weight, but the device is designed to be comfortable for everyday use. The Vivofit 4 also has a color display with touchscreen functionality, but its screen resolution is lower, at 88 x 88 pixels.
Comparison of design and build quality
Comparing the two devices, the Forerunner 935 has a more premium build quality and a higher-resolution display, which may suit users who are looking for a more high-end device. The Vivofit 4, however, offers a more basic design and display, making it ideal for users prioritizing affordability and simplicity.
Features and Functionality
Garmin Forerunner 935
The Forerunner 935 boasts features like GPS functionality, a barometer, an altimeter, an accelerometer, heart rate monitoring, and Bluetooth and Wi-Fi capabilities. It can track a wide range of activities, including distance, steps, calories, sleep, cycling, and swimming. The device has a battery life of up to two weeks and is compatible with Android, iOS, and Windows Phone devices.
Garmin Vivofit 4
The Vivofit 4 is more modest in its offerings, focusing primarily on basic activity tracking such as steps, distance, calories, and sleep. It also includes swimming tracking and has a water resistance rating of 5 ATM. Unlike the Forerunner 935, the Vivofit 4 does not offer GPS, heart rate monitoring, or barometric features. Its battery life, however, is an impressive one year, and it is compatible with Android and iOS devices.
Comparison of features and performance
Comparing both devices, the Forerunner 935 is packed with advanced features and more comprehensive tracking capabilities suitable for athletes and fitness enthusiasts. The Vivofit 4 delivers basic tracking features and extended battery life, which may appeal to those looking for a simple and low-maintenance fitness tracker.
User Interface and User Experience
Garmin Forerunner 935
The user interface of the Forerunner 935 offers customizable watch faces, apps, and widgets, making it adaptable to the user’s preferences. It has smartphone compatibility, providing users with notifications for calls, texts, and emails. The device also supports music control and audio speaker functionality.
Garmin Vivofit 4
The Vivofit 4, meanwhile, focuses on a simple user interface that offers customizable color themes and watch faces. It does not support app integration or smartphone notifications, but it can sync with compatible devices for accurate activity tracking and goal setting.
Comparison of user interface and user experience
When evaluating the user experience, the Forerunner 935 offers a richer interface, with its advanced features and customizable options. The Vivofit 4 delivers a more straightforward experience focused on basic tracking and simplicity.
Price and Value
Garmin Forerunner 935
With a price tag of $500, the Forerunner 935 is a premium option for those seeking an advanced and feature-rich fitness wearable. Despite its higher cost, it offers excellent value for users seeking a comprehensive tracking tool and customizable user experience.
Garmin Vivofit 4
The Vivofit 4, priced at $79.95, is a more affordable alternative for those focused on essential tracking and simplicity. It provides good value for users who prioritize long battery life and a no-frills experience.
Comparison of price and value
When comparing the two devices, it is important to consider individual needs and preferences. The Forerunner 935 offers more features and customization at a higher price, while the Vivofit 4 focuses on basic functionality and affordability.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the Garmin Forerunner 935 and Vivofit 4 cater to different user needs and preferences. The Forerunner 935 is a solid choice for fitness enthusiasts and athletes seeking high-end features, while the Vivofit 4 is an affordable option for those wanting a simple yet reliable activity tracker.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which device has better battery life?
The Garmin Vivofit 4 has a superior battery life of one year compared to the Forerunner 935's battery life of up to two weeks.
Can I receive smartphone notifications on the Vivofit 4?
No, the Vivofit 4 does not offer integration with smartphone notifications, unlike the Forerunner 935.
Do both devices support GPS?
The Garmin Forerunner 935 supports GPS functionality, while the Vivofit 4 does not.
Which device is more suitable for serious athletes?
The Garmin Forerunner 935 is more tailored towards athletes with its advanced features and comprehensive tracking capabilities.
Are both devices waterproof with swim tracking functionality?
Yes, both the Forerunner 935 and Vivofit 4 are water-resistant with a 5 ATM rating and support swim tracking.
