Comparing Vivosmart 3 and Forerunner 935
The Garmin Forerunner 935 and Garmin Vivosmart 3 are two popular fitness wearables by Garmin, released in 2017. The Forerunner 935 is a more robust and feature-packed device, aimed at serious athletes, while the Vivosmart 3 has a more minimalist design and focuses on basic fitness tracking. As Garmin is a well-known and reputable brand in the wearables industry, it’s important to choose the right device for individual needs and preferences.
Garmin has a long history of producing high-quality wearable devices for athletes and fitness enthusiasts. Founded in 1989, the company has grown into a global leader in GPS navigation and wearable technology. With such an extensive portfolio, it’s crucial to compare specific devices to ensure the best fit for one’s wellness regimen.
In this article, we will cover the design and build of each device, their features and functionalities, user interface and experience, as well as their prices, and value for money. At the end of the article, we will provide some FAQs to answer common questions on these devices.
Design and Build
Garmin Forerunner 935
The Garmin Forerunner 935 has a premium design, made with high-quality materials. It features a 1.2-inch LCD color display with a screen resolution of 240 x 240 pixels. The device has a touchscreen for easy navigation, and it comes in a lightweight but durable case, ensuring it’s comfortable to wear during long workouts or races.
Garmin Vivosmart 3
The Garmin Vivosmart 3 has a slim and minimalist design, making it more suitable for casual wear and basic fitness tracking. It features an OLED display with a screen resolution of 64 x 128 pixels. The screen size is not specified but is smaller than the Forerunner 935. Navigation is provided by its discreet touch-sensitive interface.
Comparison of design and build quality
Both devices share similarities in terms of 5 ATM water resistance and touch input, but they differ in build, aesthetics, and display. The Forerunner 935 has an advantage in size, screen resolution, and color display, while the Vivosmart 3 has a more discreet and minimalistic design.
Features and Functionality
Garmin Forerunner 935
The Garmin Forerunner 935 runs on a proprietary operating system and offers numerous features for athletes and fitness enthusiasts. It boasts a battery life of up to 2 weeks, GPS functionality, and a variety of sensors, such as an accelerometer and barometer. The device is compatible with both Android and iOS devices and offers Bluetooth, NFC, and Wi-Fi for connectivity. It provides music functionality, phone, and messaging features, and supports customizable apps.
Garmin Vivosmart 3
On the other hand, the Garmin Vivosmart 3 focuses on essential fitness tracking features, with a battery life of 5 days. It lacks GPS but offers compatibility with Android, iOS, and Windows Phone devices. Bluetooth connectivity enables syncing with smartphones, while activity tracking features such as step counting, sleep monitoring, and heart rate tracking are available. However, it does not support apps or GPS functionality.
Comparison of features and performance
The Forerunner 935 offers a more comprehensive set of features and functionalities, catering to serious athletes and fitness enthusiasts who need advanced tracking and customization options. The Vivosmart 3 focuses on basic fitness tracking and is more suitable for those who prefer a minimalist and budget-friendly option.
User Interface and User Experience
Garmin Forerunner 935
The user interface for the Garmin Forerunner 935 is designed for easy and practical use, with a color touchscreen display and intuitive navigation options. It offers app customization and compatibility with smartphones, allowing users to personalize their device and receive notifications.
Garmin Vivosmart 3
The Garmin Vivosmart 3's user interface is kept simple and low-key, with a smaller OLED screen and touch-sensitive controls. It supports basic smartphone compatibility for notifications and music control but lacks the ability to download and customize apps.
Comparison of user interface and user experience
The Forerunner 935 provides a more advanced and customizable user interface with its larger color display and app support, while the Vivosmart 3 offers a more streamlined experience for those who prioritize simplicity and basic tracking features.
Price and Value
Garmin Forerunner 935
Priced at $500, the Garmin Forerunner 935 is a premium investment for athletes and fitness enthusiasts who require advanced features, customization, and a more robust design. The value for money is high, considering the comprehensive set of features and excellent build quality.
Garmin Vivosmart 3
At $139.99, the Garmin Vivosmart 3 offers essential fitness tracking features in a minimalistic design at an affordable price point. It’s a great option for individuals who want a basic fitness tracker without breaking the bank.
Comparison of price and value
The Garmin Forerunner 935 and Vivosmart 3 cater to different needs and budgets. For advanced athletes and fitness enthusiasts, the Forerunner 935's price reflects its value, while the Vivosmart 3 offers a more budget-friendly option for those seeking a discreet and basic fitness tracker.
Conclusion
Both the Garmin Forerunner 935 and Vivosmart 3 are well-crafted devices that cater to different user preferences and budgets. The Forerunner 935 is suited for serious athletes and fitness enthusiasts seeking advanced features and customization, while the Vivosmart 3 is a solid, budget-friendly option for those who prefer basic fitness tracking and a more minimalistic design.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the Garmin Forerunner 935 worth the price difference compared to the Vivosmart 3?
It depends on the individual’s needs and preferences. If advanced features and customization are important, the Forerunner 935's higher price is justified. For those who prefer basic fitness tracking and a more budget-friendly option, the Vivosmart 3 is a better choice.
Can I use the Garmin Forerunner 935 for swimming?
Yes, the Garmin Forerunner 935 is water-resistant up to 5 ATM and offers swim tracking features.
Do both devices track sleep?
Yes, both the Garmin Forerunner 935 and Vivosmart 3 offer sleep tracking capabilities.
Can I control my music with the Garmin Vivosmart 3?
Yes, the Garmin Vivosmart 3 offers music control features when connected to your smartphone.
Do I need a smartphone to use the Garmin Forerunner 935?
While a smartphone is not required for all of the Garmin Forerunner 935's features, a smartphone connection allows for compatibility with apps, customization options, and notifications.
