Comparing Vivosmart HR Plus and Vivoactive 3
Garmin, a leading global brand in wearable technology, offers various smartwatches and fitness trackers to suit different needs and preferences. In particular, two popular models for consideration are the Garmin Vivoactive 3 and the Vivosmart HR Plus, released in 2017. Both devices focus on various aspects of health and fitness, as well as featuring convenient connectivity options.
Making an informed choice on which smartwatch or fitness tracker to purchase is crucial. Features, design, and user experience are some factors that can influence the decision, especially when looking for a device that can optimize goal tracking and workout performance.
With a solid reputation and a history of producing high-quality wearables, Garmin is a brand that warrants close attention when exploring smartwatch and fitness tracker options. This article will compare the Vivoactive 3 and the Vivosmart HR Plus in terms of design, functionality, user interface, price, and value.
Design and Build
Garmin Vivoactive 3
The Garmin Vivoactive 3 features durable materials and a sleek design. The display is a 1.2-inch, 240 x 240-pixel color MIP screen, which is visible in various lighting conditions. The case measures 43.4mm in diameter and is made of lightweight polymer, while the band is silicone, ensuring comfort and durability during exercise activities.
Garmin Vivosmart HR Plus
The Garmin Vivosmart HR Plus sports a slim profile and features a 0.5-inch x 0.8-inch, 160 x 68-pixel LCD screen. The fitness tracker is encased in robust plastic with a silicone strap. Although it lacks a color display, it ensures readability in different environments, including direct sunlight and underwater situations.
Comparison of design and build quality
Comparing the Vivoactive 3 and Vivosmart HR Plus reveals differences in screen size, display type, and overall design aesthetics. The Vivoactive 3 has a larger, color display, while the Vivosmart HR Plus features a smaller, monochrome screen. Both devices offer lightweight and durable builds using quality materials, ideal for various types of workouts and daily activities.
Features and Functionality
Garmin Vivoactive 3
Among its many features, the Garmin Vivoactive 3 includes GPS, a barometric altimeter, accelerometer, compass, optical heart rate monitor, and battery life of up to 7 days. Additionally, the smartwatch boasts smartphone connectivity, music playback, and a variety of sports tracking modes such as running, swimming, and cycling.
Garmin Vivosmart HR Plus
The Garmin Vivosmart HR Plus also features GPS, an accelerometer, optical heart rate monitor, and a barometric altimeter. However, its battery life is shorter, lasting up to 5 days. The fitness tracker offers smartphone connectivity but lacks the Vivoactive 3's range of sports profiles, as it does not track swimming or cycling activities.
Comparison of features and performance
When comparing the Vivoactive 3 and Vivosmart HR Plus in terms of features and performance, both devices include GPS, accelerometers, and heart rate monitoring capabilities. The Vivoactive 3 excels in offering a wider range of sports profiles, while both devices offer basic fitness tracking functionalities. In addition, the Vivoactive 3 has a longer battery life compared to the Vivosmart HR Plus.
User Interface and User Experience
Garmin Vivoactive 3
The Garmin Vivoactive 3 offers a touchscreen display paired with a physical button, making menu navigation seamless. The smartwatch supports smartphone compatibility with both Android and iOS devices, and users can customize the device with various apps and watch faces available in Garmin’s Connect IQ store.
Garmin Vivosmart HR Plus
The Garmin Vivosmart HR Plus features a touch display and a user-friendly interface. It is compatible with Android, iOS, and Windows Phone devices, allowing users to sync their fitness data with Garmin Connect. However, it does not support third-party apps or custom watch faces like the Vivoactive 3.
Comparison of user interface and user experience
Both the Vivoactive 3 and Vivosmart HR Plus provide a straightforward user interface and seamless compatibility with various smartphones. The Vivoactive 3 offers more customization options through the Connect IQ store, while the Vivosmart HR Plus delivers a more streamlined experience focusing on core fitness tracking features.
Price and Value
Garmin Vivoactive 3
At a retail price of $299, the Garmin Vivoactive 3 positions itself at the higher end of the market, offering advanced features and increased customizability that cater to a variety of sports enthusiasts and individuals seeking a more comprehensive fitness tracking experience.
Garmin Vivosmart HR Plus
With a price tag of $179, the Garmin Vivosmart HR Plus is more budget-friendly, focusing on the essential fitness tracking functionalities, such as steps, distance, heart rate monitoring, and sleep patterns, making it an appropriate choice for entry-level users or those with basic fitness tracking needs.
Comparison of price and value
Comparing the price and value of the Vivoactive 3 and Vivosmart HR Plus highlights different target users. The Vivoactive 3 offers a more comprehensive feature set for a higher price, while the Vivosmart HR Plus caters to users who want basic health and wellness tracking capabilities at a more affordable cost.
Conclusion
Both the Garmin Vivoactive 3 and Vivosmart HR Plus offer valuable fitness tracking and connectivity features for individuals looking to optimize their health and performance. The Vivoactive 3 excels in providing an extensive range of customizable features and sports profiles, whereas the Vivosmart HR Plus focuses on delivering essential fitness tracking capabilities at a more accessible price point. Ultimately, the choice between these two devices depends on individual needs, preferences, and budget.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is better for swimming: Garmin Vivoactive 3 or Vivosmart HR Plus?
The Garmin Vivoactive 3 is the better choice for swimming, as it is equipped with swim tracking features, while the Vivosmart HR Plus does not track swimming activities.
Can I control my music with both the Vivoactive 3 and Vivosmart HR Plus?
Yes, both the Garmin Vivoactive 3 and Vivosmart HR Plus offer music controls, allowing you to control playback on your smartphone.
Which has better screen resolution: Garmin Vivoactive 3 or Vivosmart HR Plus?
The Garmin Vivoactive 3 has a higher screen resolution of 240 x 240 pixels, compared to the Vivosmart HR Plus’s resolution of 160 x 68 pixels.
What is the battery life of the Garmin Vivoactive 3 and Vivosmart HR Plus?
The Garmin Vivoactive 3 has a battery life of up to 7 days, while the Vivosmart HR Plus lasts up to 5 days on a single charge.
Are both Garmin Vivoactive 3 and Vivosmart HR Plus compatible with Android and iOS devices?
Yes, both the Garmin Vivoactive 3 and Vivosmart HR Plus are compatible with Android and iOS smartphones, allowing users to sync their fitness data with the Garmin Connect platform.
