Comparing Vivosmart 3 and Vivofit 3
When it comes to finding the right smartwatch or fitness tracker, Garmin is a prominent brand offering a range of wearables designed to suit different needs and preferences. This article offers a detailed comparison of two popular Garmin products, the Garmin Vivofit 3 and the Garmin Vivosmart 3. Choosing the right device can significantly impact your tracking goals, from fitness to sleep and overall activity tracking.
Garmin has earned a prominent reputation for delivering high-quality wearables with exceptional features and capabilities. With a long history dating back to 1989, the company has consistently produced reliable and user-friendly devices, making it a trusted name in the market.
In the subsequent sections, we will delve into various aspects of these two Garmin models, comparing their design, build, features, functionality, user interfaces, experiences, pricing, and value of the Vivofit 3 and Vivosmart 3.
Design and Build
Garmin Vivofit 3
The Garmin Vivofit 3 features a durable and comfortable silicone strap available in various colors. The device’s dimensions are 12.2 x 10.3 x 22.5 cm, and it weighs 28 grams. Its 64 x 64 pixel display is monochromatic, providing essential information in a minimalist style.
Garmin Vivosmart 3
The Garmin Vivosmart 3 also employs a comfortable silicone strap and comes in different colors. It has a sleeker design, measuring 18.5 x 9.8 x 1 cm and weighing 20.4 grams. The device boasts a 64 x 128 pixel OLED display with touch capabilities for a sharper and more interactive user experience.
Comparison of design and build quality
Though both devices cater to users seeking a slim design and comfortable wear, the Vivosmart 3 offers a more contemporary aesthetic with a larger touch display. The Vivofit 3, however, is slightly bulkier, but still offers a well-built and comfortable tracker.
Features and Functionality
Garmin Vivofit 3
The Vivofit 3 can operate autonomously, featuring sensors such as an accelerometer to track steps, distance, and sleep. With an impressive battery life of up to one year, users can also track calories, cycling, and swimming. Smartphone compatibility includes Android, iOS, and Windows devices.
Garmin Vivosmart 3
The Vivosmart 3's operating system supports touch functionality and includes sensors to track heart rate, VO2 max, and barometric altitude. The Vivosmart 3 offers a similar fitness tracking suite to the Vivofit 3 but with additional features, such as stress tracking and guided breathing. Its battery life lasts up to five days on a single charge, and it is also compatible with Android, iOS, and Windows smartphones.
Comparison of features and performance
The Vivosmart 3 offers more advanced tracking capabilities with the added heart rate and VO2 max monitoring features. While both devices display excellent performance, the Vivofit 3 delivers significantly longer battery life, making it an ideal option for those less interested in frequent charging sessions.
User Interface and User Experience
Garmin Vivofit 3
The Vivofit 3 offers a simple and straightforward monochromatic display, and buttons allow for easy navigation through various modes and options. While its compatibility extends to Android, iOS, and Windows smartphones, the device lacks application features or customization options.
Garmin Vivosmart 3
Featuring an OLED touchscreen display with superior visibility, the Vivosmart 3 offers a more interactive and intuitive user experience. Customizable through Garmin Connect, the device also supports text, email, and phone notifications, enhancing smartphone compatibility.
Comparison of user interface and user experience
While the Vivofit 3 provides essential tracking information in a basic format, the Vivosmart 3 excels with a more user-friendly interface and comprehensive smartphone connectivity. If customization and app support are essential factors, the Vivosmart 3 may prove more suitable.
Price and Value
Garmin Vivofit 3
At a price of $100, the Vivofit 3 offers good value for those seeking a durable and straightforward activity tracker with long battery life but without advanced features.
Garmin Vivosmart 3
With a price tag of $139.99, the Vivosmart 3 steps up as a more feature-rich option, including a heart rate monitor and touchscreen interface, ultimately offering value for those willing to invest more in a comprehensive tracking experience.
Comparison of price and value
While the Vivofit 3 is a more affordable option for those seeking essential tracking capabilities, consumers looking for advanced features and greater phone connectivity may find the Vivosmart 3 a worthwhile investment.
Conclusion
Ultimately, the decision between the Garmin Vivofit 3 and Vivosmart 3 depends on personal preference, budget, and desired features. For those seeking a basic, low-maintenance tracker, the Vivofit 3 presents a strong choice. However, users who desire advanced tracking capabilities and a more interactive user experience should consider the Vivosmart 3 for its additional features and broader functionality.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which device has better battery life?
The Vivofit 3 boasts a significantly longer battery life with up to one year of use, while the Vivosmart 3 can last up to five days on a single charge.
Do both devices offer heart rate monitoring?
No, only the Garmin Vivosmart 3 features heart rate monitoring capabilities.
Are the Vivofit 3 and Vivosmart 3 waterproof?
Both devices are water-resistant with a rating of 5 ATM, allowing use during swimming and water-based activities.
Which Garmin device is better for smartphone connectivity and notifications?
The Vivosmart 3 offers superior smartphone connectivity and supports text, email, and phone notifications when paired with a compatible device.
Is it possible to track cycling with both devices?
The Vivofit 3 supports cycling tracking, but the Vivosmart 3 does not offer this specific feature.
