Comparing Instinct and Watch Series 4
Apple Watch Series 4 and Garmin Instinct are two popular smartwatches available in the ever-growing world of wearables. These devices not only serve as fashionable accessories but also offer a wide array of features and functionalities designed to enhance your daily life. The choice between these two brands depends on several factors, such as design, performance, user experience, and price. In this detailed report, we will compare and analyze the Apple Watch Series 4 and Garmin Instinct based on these factors.
The decision to invest in a smartwatch often comes down to the specific features and functionality that best cater to your individual needs. With their unique characteristics, the Apple Watch Series 4 and Garmin Instinct are built to attract different types of users with diverse preferences.
Apple and Garmin are well-known brands with established reputations in the marketplace. Apple is renowned for its sleek design, cutting-edge technology, and user-friendly products. On the other hand, Garmin is an industry leader specializing in GPS technology, with a strong focus on creating innovative fitness and outdoor devices.
In the following sections, we will delve deeper into the design, build, performance, and user interface of the Apple Watch Series 4 and Garmin Instinct. Additionally, we will take a closer look at their value for money, and help you make an informed decision about which smartwatch best suits your needs.
Design and Build
Apple Watch Series 4
Materials: Aluminum/Stainless Steel Case, Ceramic/Sapphire Crystal Back, Ion-X/ Sapphire Crystal Glass
Size and weight: 40mm - (34mm x 40mm x 10.7mm, 30.1g); 44mm - (38mm x 44mm x 10.7mm, 36.7g)
Display/Screen Information: OLED Retina Display, Screen size: 1.78 inches, Screen Resolution: 384x480 pixels, Touchscreen
Garmin Instinct
Materials: Fiber-reinforced polymer case, Chemically strengthened glass
Size and weight: 45mm x 45mm x 15.3mm, 52g
Display/Screen Information: Monochrome, transflective memory-in-pixel (MIP), Screen size: 0.9 inches, Screen Resolution: 128x128 pixels, Button Navigation
Comparison of design and build quality
Similarities: Both devices have a durable build with water resistance, GPS functionality, and heart rate tracking.
Differences: Apple Watch Series 4 has a slim and sleek design with a larger color touchscreen display, while the Garmin Instinct has a rugged and tough exterior with a smaller monochrome display using button navigation.
Pros and cons: The Apple Watch Series 4 offers a more fashionable and sophisticated design, whereas the Garmin Instinct provides durability and robustness, ideal for outdoor enthusiasts.
Features and Functionality
Apple Watch Series 4
Operating System: WatchOS 5, Sensors: Accelerometer, Gyroscope, Barometer, Heart Rate, GPS, GLONASS, Galileo, and QZSS
Battery life: Up to 18 hours, Fitness Tracking: Calories, distance, steps, heart rate, swim tracking, Phone Function, Music Function, Emails, Texts, and more
Garmin Instinct
Operating System: Proprietary Garmin OS, Sensors: Accelerometer, Gyroscope, Barometer, Heart Rate, GPS, GLONASS, Galileo
Battery life: Up to 14 days in smartwatch mode, Fitness Tracking: Calories, distance, steps, heart rate, swim tracking, Emails, Texts, and more
Comparison of features and performance
Similarities: Both devices offer fitness tracking, heart rate monitoring, GPS functionality, and smart notifications for emails and texts.
Differences: Apple Watch Series 4 provides additional features such as cellular connectivity, NFC for Apple Pay, and an extensive app ecosystem. Garmin Instinct, on the other hand, offers a longer battery life and compatibility with both Android and iOS devices.
Pros and cons: Apple Watch Series 4 boasts a more extensive feature set, while Garmin Instinct has longer battery life and broader compatibility.
User Interface and User Experience
Apple Watch Series 4
Display: OLED Retina Display with Force Touch, Navigation: Touchscreen and Digital Crown, Apps and Customization: App Store, Compatibility: iPhone
Garmin Instinct
Display: Monochrome Transflective MIP, Navigation: Button Navigation, Apps and Customization: Limited, Compatibility: Android and iOS devices
Comparison of user interface and user experience
Similarities: Both devices offer user-friendly interfaces and customizable watch faces.
Differences: Apple Watch Series 4 has a more intuitive touchscreen and digital crown navigation, while Garmin Instinct relies on button navigation. Additionally, the Apple Watch Series 4 provides a rich app ecosystem, whereas Garmin Instinct has limited customization options.
Pros and cons: Apple Watch Series 4 offers a more engaging user experience, while Garmin Instinct provides a simpler and more straightforward interface.
Price and Value
Apple Watch Series 4
Cost: $329, Value for money: Offers a wide range of features with a sleek design and extensive app support.
Garmin Instinct
Cost: $300, Value for money: Built for durability and outdoor activities, with a longer battery life.
Comparison of price and value
Similarities: Both devices cater to different segments of the market and offer value for money depending on the intended use.
Differences: Apple Watch Series 4 holds an advantage in design and advanced features, while Garmin Instinct offers better outdoor functionality and battery life.
Pros and cons: Apple Watch Series 4 presents a better overall package for a slightly higher price; Garmin Instinct offers a more rugged device with a focus on outdoor activities for a lower cost.
Conclusion
The Apple Watch Series 4 and Garmin Instinct cater to different user preferences and lifestyles. The Apple Watch Series 4 offers a sleek design, an extensive list of features, and a refined user experience, making it an excellent choice for users who prioritize fashion and advanced functionalities. In contrast, the Garmin Instinct is rugged and durable, built with outdoor enthusiasts in mind, and offers a longer battery life, making it an ideal option for those who prioritize these aspects. Ultimately, the choice between the two devices depends on your personal needs and preferences, as both devices provide value in their respective categories.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the Apple Watch Series 4 compatible with Android devices?
No, the Apple Watch Series 4 is only compatible with iPhones.
Is the Garmin Instinct suitable for swimming and water sports?
Yes, the Garmin Instinct has a water resistance rating of 10 ATM, making it suitable for swimming and water sports.
Do both devices have sleep tracking features?
Yes, both the Apple Watch Series 4 and Garmin Instinct provide sleep tracking functionality.
Can you respond to texts and emails on the Garmin Instinct?
Garmin Instinct allows you to read and receive smart notifications for texts and emails, but it does not offer a function to reply.
Can you store and play music on both devices?
Yes, both the Apple Watch Series 4 and Garmin Instinct have built-in storage and music playback capabilities.
