Comparing TicWatch Pro and Vivoactive 3
When it comes to smartwatches, the Garmin Vivoactive 3 and the Mobvoi TicWatch Pro stand out for their impressive features and functionalities. These two devices are gaining popularity among fitness enthusiasts and tech-savvy consumers alike. Making a choice between them can be challenging, as both offer unique benefits and features.
Choosing the right smartwatch is crucial, as it can significantly affect one’s daily activities, workouts, and interactions with their smartphone. Both Garmin and Mobvoi have earned solid reputations in the wearables industry for their high-quality products and continuous innovation.
Garmin is a well-established brand in the GPS and fitness tracking market with years of experience, while Mobvoi is a fast-growing company that offers cutting-edge smartwatches with unique features. In this article, we will provide a detailed comparison of the Garmin Vivoactive 3 and the Mobvoi TicWatch Pro, touching upon factors such as design, build, features, and value for money.
Design and Build
Garmin Vivoactive 3
The Garmin Vivoactive 3 is built with a stainless steel case, coupled with a silicone strap that offers comfort while wearing. It has a 1.2-inch MIP display with a resolution of 240 x 240 pixels to ensure clarity in various lighting conditions. The device is lightweight and has a 5 ATM water resistance rating, making it suitable for swimming.
MobVoi TicWatch Pro
Mobvoi’s TicWatch Pro boasts a premium design with a stainless steel bezel and plastic casing. The watch features a soft silicone strap with a leather accent for additional style. The device has a dual-layer display consisting of a 1.4-inch OLED screen with a 400 x 400-pixel resolution and a low-power FSTN display, ensuring optimal visibility in any condition. With an IP68 water resistance rating, the watch is not suitable for swimming but can withstand occasional splashes and rain.
Comparison of design and build quality
When comparing the Garmin Vivoactive 3 and the Mobvoi TicWatch Pro, both devices offer a sleek and modern design, with the latter having a more premium appearance. While both watches have water resistance, the Vivoactive 3 is more suitable for use during swimming. The TicWatch Pro’s dual-layer display is a unique advantage, offering better visibility and longer battery life in essential mode.
Features and Functionality
Garmin Vivoactive 3
The Vivoactive 3 operates on Garmin’s proprietary software, offering a variety of built-in sports apps and fitness tracking capabilities. The device includes GPS, a heart rate monitor, sleep tracking, and even supports music playback. With a battery life of up to 7 days, the Vivoactive 3 is ideal for everyday use and fitness tracking purposes.
MobVoi TicWatch Pro
On the other hand, the TicWatch Pro runs on Google’s Wear OS, providing access to numerous third-party apps catering to fitness and other functionalities. The device includes GPS, heart rate monitoring, sleep tracking, NFC for Google Pay, and music functions. The TicWatch Pro’s battery life is exceptional, lasting up to 30 days in essential mode.
Comparison of features and performance
Both devices offer numerous fitness tracking options, with the Vivoactive 3 supporting additional activities such as swimming and cycling. While the TicWatch Pro does not track swimming, it does have NFC capability for contactless payments. In terms of battery life, the TicWatch Pro has an advantage over the Vivoactive 3.
User Interface and User Experience
Garmin Vivoactive 3
Garmin’s user interface is straightforward, with easily navigatable menus and numerous customization options. The device is compatible with both Android and iOS, and users have access to Garmin Connect, Garmin Pay, and downloadable watch faces and widgets via the Connect IQ store.
MobVoi TicWatch Pro
As the TicWatch Pro runs on Wear OS, it integrates seamlessly with Google services such as Google Assistant, Google Fit, and Google Pay. It is also compatible with Android and iOS devices. Users can download additional watch faces and apps through the Google Play Store.
Comparison of user interface and user experience
The Garmin Vivoactive 3 and the Mobvoi TicWatch Pro both offer user-friendly experiences, with the former having a more focused fitness tracker feel, and the latter bringing a more versatile and customizable smartwatch experience. Ultimately, the choice depends on the user’s preferences and how they plan to use the device.
Price and Value
Garmin Vivoactive 3
At a price of $299, the Garmin Vivoactive 3 offers a solid set of features and great durability, making it an excellent choice for fitness enthusiasts who enjoy swimming and cycling.
MobVoi TicWatch Pro
The TicWatch Pro is priced slightly higher, at $300. It provides unique features such as the dual-layer display and NFC connectivity, which may appeal to users seeking a more versatile smartwatch experience.
Comparison of price and value
Both devices offer their set of advantages and are priced similarly. Users focused on fitness tracking, especially swimmers and cyclists, may prefer the Garmin Vivoactive 3. On the other hand, those seeking a more feature-rich smartwatch experience with extended battery life may be more inclined towards the Mobvoi TicWatch Pro.
Conclusion
The Garmin Vivoactive 3 and Mobvoi TicWatch Pro cater to different needs and preferences. The former is more fitness-centric, while the latter offers a well-rounded smartwatch experience with longer battery life. Ultimately, consumers must decide which device best fits their requirements and budgets. Regardless of the choice, both smartwatches are reliable and high-quality options in the wearables market.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I wear the Garmin Vivoactive 3 while swimming?
Yes, the Garmin Vivoactive 3 has a 5 ATM water resistance rating, making it suitable for swimming and other water-based activities.
Does the Mobvoi TicWatch Pro support contactless payments?
Yes, the TicWatch Pro is equipped with NFC for contactless payments through Google Pay.
How long does the battery last on the Garmin Vivoactive 3?
The Garmin Vivoactive 3's battery can last up to 7 days, depending on usage patterns and selected settings.
What kind of apps can I download on the Mobvoi TicWatch Pro?
Since the TicWatch Pro runs on Google’s Wear OS, users have access to a wide range of apps available on the Google Play Store, including fitness tracking, productivity, and entertainment apps.
Can both smartwatches pair with my Android or iOS smartphone?
Yes, both the Garmin Vivoactive 3 and Mobvoi TicWatch Pro are compatible with Android and iOS devices, allowing users to receive notifications, control music playback, and access other features dependent on their smartphones.
