Comparing VivoActive 4 and Verge
The Amazfit Verge and Garmin VivoActive 4 are two popular smartwatches that cater to the needs of fitness enthusiasts and tech-savvy users alike. Both products were released in 2019, with the Verge priced at $160 and the VivoActive 4 at $349. Choosing the right smartwatch can significantly impact your daily life and help you achieve your fitness goals more efficiently.
Amazfit and Garmin are well-established brands in the wearables industry, each with a unique reputation and history. Amazfit is known for offering affordable smartwatches with impressive features, while Garmin excels in creating smartwatches specifically designed for fitness fanatics and outdoor adventurers.
This article will provide a comprehensive comparison between the Amazfit Verge and Garmin VivoActive 4 in terms of their design and build, features and functionality, user interface and experience, price and value, and overall performance. Armed with this information, you will be better equipped to choose the right smartwatch for your needs.
Design and Build
Amazfit Verge
The Verge boasts a sleek design, featuring a 1.39-inch AMOLED display with a 454x454 resolution. Its build incorporates a comfortable and lightweight silicone strap, suitable for everyday wear. The smartwatch has an IP68 water-resistant rating, making it capable of withstanding splashes and brief immersions in water.
Garmin VivoActive 4
On the other hand, the VivoActive 4 sports a slightly smaller 1.3-inch MIP display with a 260x260 resolution. It also comes with a comfortable silicone strap and boasts a 5 ATM water resistance, enabling it to withstand activities such as swimming and snorkeling. Its durability and ruggedness make it an ideal choice for fitness enthusiasts and outdoor adventurers.
Comparison of design and build quality
While both smartwatches feature similar designs, the Amazfit Verge offers a larger, vibrant display that provides better visibility. However, the Garmin VivoActive 4's higher water resistance rating and rugged build make it a more suitable option for those with active lifestyles.
Features and Functionality
Amazfit Verge
Powered by the Amazfit OS, the Verge offers an array of features, such as heart rate monitoring, sleep tracking, step counting, and distance tracking. It also supports GPS, Wi-Fi, and Bluetooth connectivity, allowing for seamless synchronization with compatible smartphones. The smartwatch does, however, lack a dedicated app store and falls short on features such as oxygen tracking and swim tracking. Its battery life lasts for five days on a single charge.
Garmin VivoActive 4
The VivoActive 4 runs on Google’s Wear OS and offers a wide range of fitness and smart features, including heart rate monitoring, sleep tracking, step counting, and oxygen tracking. Additionally, it supports swim tracking, GPS, Wi-Fi, and Bluetooth. With a battery life of up to eight days, the VivoActive 4 outlasts the Verge in terms of longevity. Users also enjoy access to a dedicated app store, offering greater customization options.
Comparison of features and performance
The Garmin VivoActive 4 boasts a more comprehensive feature set and longer battery life compared to the Amazfit Verge. Although the Verge puts up an impressive fight considering its price range, the VivoActive 4 takes the lead, especially for those seeking a higher level of fitness-related features and personalization options.
User Interface and User Experience
Amazfit Verge
The Verge offers a user-friendly interface with touchscreen navigation, making it easy to access various features and customize settings. However, the smartwatch lacks a dedicated app store, limiting its customization options in comparison to the VivoActive 4. The Verge is compatible with both Android and iOS devices, ensuring seamless synchronization with most smartphones on the market.
Garmin VivoActive 4
The VivoActive 4 boasts a responsive touchscreen interface, along with the added benefit of a wide range of apps and customization options through the Wear OS platform. It is also compatible with both Android and iOS devices, providing a seamless user experience for most smartphone users.
Comparison of user interface and user experience
Both smartwatches offer similar user experiences, with key differences being the VivoActive 4's access to the Wear OS platform, a dedicated app store, and increased customization options. The Amazfit Verge, however, remains an attractive option for those looking for a more affordable alternative with a user-friendly interface.
Price and Value
Amazfit Verge
At a price point of $160, the Amazfit Verge presents excellent value for money, offering an attractive range of features and capabilities that cater to the needs of fitness enthusiasts and tech-savvy users alike.
Garmin VivoActive 4
With a retail price of $349, the Garmin VivoActive 4 is a more expensive option. However, its advanced features, longer battery life, and greater level of customization make it an appealing choice for those willing to invest in a higher-end smartwatch.
Comparison of price and value
While the Garmin VivoActive 4 offers a more comprehensive array of features and better overall performance, the Amazfit Verge provides great value for its lower price. Potential buyers must weigh their specific needs and budget constraints to determine which smartwatch offers the best balance of price and value for them.
Conclusion
Ultimately, the choice between the Amazfit Verge and Garmin VivoActive 4 boils down to personal preferences, budget considerations, and feature requirements. The Verge’s budget-friendly price and user-friendly interface make it an attractive option for those seeking a reliable smartwatch without breaking the bank. On the other hand, the VivoActive 4's more advanced fitness features, longer battery life, and extensive customization options make it a worthy investment for fitness enthusiasts and those desiring a more feature-rich smartwatch.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the Amazfit Verge compatible with both Android and iOS devices?
Yes, the Amazfit Verge is compatible with Android and iOS smartphones, allowing you to sync data and receive notifications seamlessly.
Does the Garmin VivoActive 4 support third-party apps?
Yes, the Garmin VivoActive 4 runs on Google’s Wear OS and offers access to a wide range of third-party apps and customization options through its dedicated app store.
Can the Amazfit Verge handle water-based activities?
The Amazfit Verge has an IP68 water resistance rating, meaning it can withstand splashes and brief immersions in water. However, it does not support swim tracking and is not suitable for prolonged exposure to water.
Does the Gar-mim VivoActive 4 have a music player feature?
Yes, the Garmin VivoActive 4 offers a built-in music player, allowing you to enjoy your favorite tunes during workouts and other activities without the need for a separate device.
How long do the Amazfit Verge and Garmin VivoActive 4 last on a single charge?
The Amazfit Verge offers a battery life of up to five days, while the Garmin VivoActive 4's battery lasts up to eight days on a single charge, making both smartwatches suitable for extended periods of use without frequent recharging.
