Comparing Vivofit 4 and Vivoactive HR
When it comes to fitness tracking and staying connected through smart devices, the Garmin Vivoactive HR and the Garmin Vivofit 4 are two great options to consider. These devices are designed to help users keep track of their daily activities, set goals, and monitor their overall health and well-being. However, they differ in various aspects such as features, performance, and price.
Choosing the right wearable device is essential for making the most of your fitness journey. Selecting one that suits your preferences, goals, and budget is important to achieving desired results. To help you make an informed decision, we will dive deep into the key differences between these two Garmin devices.
Garmin, as a brand, has become a trusted name in the world of fitness wearables with a rich history of providing innovative and high-quality products. In this article, we will discuss the design and build, features and functionality, user interface and user experience, price and value, and frequently asked questions about the Garmin Vivoactive HR and Garmin Vivofit 4.
Design and Build
Garmin Vivoactive HR
Materials: Polymeric
Size and weight: 30.2 x 57 x 11.4 mm; 48 g
Display/screen: Color touchscreen; 148 x 205 pixels resolution
Garmin Vivofit 4
Materials: Polycarbonate
Size and weight: 19 x 9.4 mm (small/medium), 25.5 x 10.5 mm (large); 25 g
Display/screen: Color touchscreen; 88 x 88 pixels resolution
Comparison of design and build quality
Both the Vivoactive HR and Vivofit 4 have similar durable materials and water-resistant capabilities, but they differ in size and weight. The Vivoactive HR is bigger and heavier, while the Vivofit 4 offers a more lightweight and compact design. The Vivoactive HR has a higher resolution display compared to the Vivofit 4. The choice between the two devices, in terms of design, is based on personal preference and the desired balance between size and screen quality.
Features and Functionality
Garmin Vivoactive HR
Operating system: Proprietary OS
Sensors: GPS, heart rate monitor, accelerometer, barometric altimeter
Battery life: 13 hours (GPS mode) to 8 days (smartwatch mode)
Fitness tracking: Steps, distance, calories, sleep, heart rate
Other features: Smartphone connectivity, notification alerts, music control
Garmin Vivofit 4
Operating system: Proprietary OS
Sensors: Accelerometer
Battery life: 1 year (non-rechargeable battery)
Fitness tracking: Steps, distance, calories, sleep
Other features: Move IQ automatic activity detection, Toe-to-Toe step challenges
Comparison of features and performance
The Vivoactive HR offers more advanced features such as GPS, heart rate monitoring, and smartphone connectivity, while the Vivofit 4 focuses on basic fitness tracking functionality. The Vivoactive HR’s rechargeable battery lasts up to 8 days in smartwatch mode, whereas the Vivofit 4 has a non-rechargeable battery lasting up to a year. The choice between these two devices depends on the desired functionality—advanced tracking features or extended battery life.
User Interface and User Experience
Garmin Vivoactive HR
Display: Color touchscreen
Navigation: Physical button and touchscreen
Apps and customization: Connect IQ platform, downloadable watch faces
Compatibility: Android, iOS, Windows Phone
Garmin Vivofit 4
Display: Color touchscreen
Navigation: Touchscreen
Apps and customization: Basic watch face customization
Compatibility: Android, iOS
Comparison of user interface and user experience
The Vivoactive HR and Vivofit 4 both have color touchscreens, but the former also features a physical button for navigation. In terms of app compatibility and customization options, the Vivoactive HR has an edge over the Vivofit 4 with access to the Connect IQ platform. While both devices support Android and iOS, only the Vivoactive HR is compatible with Windows Phone devices.
Price and Value
Garmin Vivoactive HR
Cost: $250
Value for money: Offers advanced features at a higher price point
Garmin Vivofit 4
Cost: $79.95
Value for money: Affordable option for basic fitness tracking
Comparison of price and value
The Vivoactive HR comes with a higher price tag due to its advanced features, while the Vivofit 4 is designed for those who seek a basic and budget-friendly fitness tracker. The choice between these devices is based on the desired feature set and budget constraints.
Conclusion
The Garmin Vivoactive HR and Vivofit 4 cater to different user needs, preferences, and budgets. The Vivoactive HR is well-suited for those who want comprehensive health and fitness tracking, smartphone connectivity, and customizable features. In contrast, the Vivofit 4 is a budget-friendly option for users seeking basic fitness tracking features with extended battery life. By evaluating their individual requirements and budget limits, users can decide which device best suits their needs.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which device is better for tracking heart rate, the Vivoactive HR or the Vivofit 4?
The Vivoactive HR is better suited for heart rate tracking as it includes a built-in heart rate monitor, whereas the Vivofit 4 does not offer this feature.
Is the battery life of the Vivofit 4 significantly longer than that of the Vivoactive HR?
Yes, the Vivofit 4 has a battery life of up to 1 year, while the Vivoactive HR’s battery lasts up to 8 days in smartwatch mode and 13 hours in GPS mode.
Which device is more comfortable to wear during physical activities?
Comfort is subjective and depends on the individual’s preferences. The Vivoactive HR is larger and heavier, while the Vivofit 4 is more compact and lightweight. Trying on both devices may help users determine which one feels more comfortable during physical activities.
Can I control music playback from either of these devices?
Yes, the Garmin Vivoactive HR allows users to control music playback from connected smartphones, while the Vivofit 4 does not feature music controls.
Do both devices provide sleep tracking?
Yes, both the Vivoactive HR and Vivofit 4 offer sleep tracking capabilities to monitor the user’s sleep patterns and quality.
