Comparing Forerunner 935 and Vivosmart HR
Garmin is a well-known brand that has a strong reputation in the smartwatch and fitness tracker market. The Garmin Forerunner 935 and Garmin Vivosmart HR are two popular models that offer a wealth of features and cater to different user preferences. This article will provide a comprehensive comparison to help you make an informed decision when choosing between these devices.
When it comes to picking the right watch, it is important to understand how the device will aid your fitness journey and support your lifestyle. From tracking your daily steps to detailed workout stats, these wearables are designed to help enhance your fitness experience.
Garmin not only prides itself on producing highly functional wearables but also has a rich history in GPS technology, which is evident in several models from the brand. In this article, we will delve into the unique features, design, user interface, price, and value of both the Forerunner 935 and the Vivosmart HR.
Design and Build
Garmin Forerunner 935
The Garmin Forerunner 935 boasts a sleek design and lightweight construction. With a materials combination of plastic, metal, and glass, this smartwatch weighs only 49 grams. It features a 1.2-inch color LCD screen with a resolution of 240 x 240 pixels, providing a clear and crisp display.
Garmin Vivosmart HR
The Garmin Vivosmart HR sports a more minimalist design and is smaller compared to the Forerunner 935. The device is made of plastic and has an inconspicuous touch display (160 x 68 pixels) that blends seamlessly into the band. Its screen size is 1.08 inches, which is smaller than that of the Forerunner 935.
Comparison of design and build quality
Both the Forerunner 935 and Vivosmart HR have their unique design attributes, catering to different tastes. While the Forerunner 935 has a more traditional smartwatch look and a larger, color display, the Vivosmart HR presents a discreet fitness tracker design with a smaller monochrome screen. In terms of build quality, both devices are water-resistant up to 5 ATM and have a sturdy build, ensuring durability and reliability during various activities.
Features and Functionality
Garmin Forerunner 935
The Forerunner 935 is powered by an intuitive operating system and comes with an array of sensors such as an accelerometer, barometer, and a heart rate monitor. The device provides up to 2 weeks of battery life and offers comprehensive fitness tracking features, including calories, distance, heart rate, oxygen, sleep, steps, and swim tracking.
Garmin Vivosmart HR
Although not as feature-rich as the Forerunner 935, the Vivosmart HR is still highly capable, offering essential fitness tracking features such as calories, distance, heart rate, sleep, and steps tracking. The device is compatible with Android and iOS smartphones and provides a battery life of up to 5 days.
Comparison of features and performance
When comparing the two devices, it is evident that the Forerunner 935 has more advanced features, making it suitable for individuals who require extensive fitness tracking capabilities. This includes abilities like cycling and swim tracking, superior battery life, and a more comprehensive list of sensors. On the other hand, the Vivosmart HR is an ideal entry-level fitness tracker with essential tracking capabilities that cater to individuals with basic fitness goals and a need for smartphone compatibility at a lower price point.
User Interface and User Experience
Garmin Forerunner 935
The Forerunner 935 is equipped with a high-resolution touch screen display that offers easy navigation and access to various apps and customization options. It is compatible with Android, iOS, and Windows smartphones, providing notifications for phone, texts, and emails.
Garmin Vivosmart HR
The Vivosmart HR relies on a discreet touch display for navigation and offers limited customizability. Although it lacks an app ecosystem like the Forerunner 935, it still provides essential phone, text, and email notifications, along with compatibility with Android and iOS smartphones.
Comparison of user interface and user experience
While both devices offer unique user experiences, the Forerunner 935 stands out with its touchscreen display, numerous apps, and superior customization options. The Vivosmart HR, on the other hand, features a more discreet design with a touch display and limited customizability but still offers essential functionality and smartphone compatibility.
Price and Value
Garmin Forerunner 935
The Garmin Forerunner 935 retails at a higher price point of $500, primarily due to its extensive feature set and advanced capabilities.
Garmin Vivosmart HR
The Garmin Vivosmart HR is priced at $170, making it a more budget-friendly option for those seeking essential fitness tracking features and smartphone compatibility without breaking the bank.
Comparison of price and value
When comparing both devices, the Forerunner 935 offers more value for individuals who require advanced tracking capabilities and a wealth of features. However, the Vivosmart HR delivers essential fitness tracking and notifications at a more affordable price, catering to individuals with basic fitness goals and a tighter budget.
Conclusion
In conclusion, both the Garmin Forerunner 935 and Vivosmart HR cater to different user preferences and fitness goals. The Forerunner 935 is ideal for those seeking a fully-featured fitness tracker with an array of capabilities, while the Vivosmart HR is better suited for those who require a more budget-friendly, minimalist fitness tracker with essential features.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which device is better for a serious athlete or fitness enthusiast?
The Garmin Forerunner 935 is better suited for serious athletes and fitness enthusiasts, as it offers more advanced tracking features, a larger color display, and a comprehensive array of sensors.
Are both devices suitable for swimming?
Yes, both the Forerunner 935 and the Vivosmart HR are water-resistant up to 5 ATM, making them suitable for swimming. However, it should be noted that only the Forerunner 935 has swim tracking capabilities.
Can I receive smartphone notifications on both devices?
Yes, both the Garmin Forerunner 935 and Vivosmart HR provide notifications for phone, texts, and emails when connected to a compatible smartphone.
Which device has a better battery life?
The Garmin Forerunner 935 has a superior battery life, lasting up to 2 weeks, while the Vivosmart HR has a battery life of up to 5 days.
Can I control music playback on both devices?
Yes, both the Garmin Forerunner 935 and Vivosmart HR allow for music playback control when connected to a compatible smartphone.
