Comparing Vivoactive 3 and Fenix 3
Choosing between the Garmin Fenix 3 and the Garmin Vivoactive 3 may seem like a daunting task, as both watches offer a robust selection of features and functions designed to suit any lifestyle. Whether you’re focused on fitness tracking or daily time management, both watches promise to deliver top-notch performance.
Deciding on the right smartwatch is essential to ensuring your needs are met, and understanding the reputation and history of the brand’s manufacturing your device can go a long way in building confidence in your purchase. Garmin is a brand renowned for its durable smartwatches, excellent fitness tracking features, and reliable performance. With a solid history in the industry, Garmin continues to push the boundaries of what smartwatches can do.
This article will guide you through an in-depth comparison of both the Fenix 3 and Vivoactive 3, delving into their design, features, interface, and more, ultimately helping you make an informed decision on which smartwatch is right for you.
Design and Build
Garmin Fenix 3
The Garmin Fenix 3 boasts a rugged design, offering a durable construction made of stainless steel and protected by a sapphire crystal display. Weighing in at 82 grams, the Fenix 3 is slightly heavier than its Vivoactive 3 counterpart, but not enough to cause discomfort. The watch’s screen resolution measures 218 x 218 pixels, providing a crisp and clear display through a 1.2-inch Chroma LED screen.
Garmin Vivoactive 3
Constructed from a combination of fiberglass-reinforced polymer, stainless steel, and a Corning Gorilla Glass 3 display, the Vivoactive 3 is just as sturdy as the Fenix 3. It’s also a bit lighter in design, providing a more comfortable fit at a mere 43 grams. With a slightly better screen resolution of 240 x 240 pixels, the Vivoactive 3 still features a 1.2-inch display, but uses MIP technology for improved readability outdoors, and has a touchscreen for easy navigation.
Comparison of design and build quality
Both the Fenix 3 and Vivoactive 3 are well-built and durable, with the former offering more heft and prominence due to its stainless steel construction. However, the Vivoactive 3 provides a slightly improved screen resolution and uses touchscreen technology, making it potentially more user-friendly. The choice ultimately depends on your preference for weight and screen interaction.
Features and Functionality
Garmin Fenix 3
While the Garmin Fenix 3's operating system is not explicitly mentioned, its compatibility with iOS and Android devices ensures a wide range of connectivity. Equipped with various sensors, including an accelerometer and a barometer, the Fenix 3 excels in its fitness tracking capabilities, like distance, cycling, steps, and sleep tracking. The watch has a battery life of up to 50 hours in GPS mode, or up to six weeks when used as a watch.
Garmin Vivoactive 3
Compatible with both Android and iOS devices, the Vivoactive 3 also features a wide array of sensors, including a heart rate monitor, which the Fenix 3 does not have. The Vivoactive shares many of the Fenix 3's fitness tracking capabilities but has a slightly shorter battery life of up to seven days, depending on usage.
Comparison of features and performance
While both the Fenix 3 and Vivoactive 3 offer impressive fitness tracking capabilities and connectivity options, the Vivoactive 3 gains an edge due to its heart rate monitor. Nevertheless, the Fenix 3 boasts a significantly longer battery life, which may be more appealing to those who don’t want to recharge often.
User Interface and User Experience
Garmin Fenix 3
The user interface of the Fenix 3 centers around its Chroma LED display, with navigation based on physical buttons on the watch’s side. The Fenix 3 is compatible with a variety of apps and can be customized with watch faces and features. Its compatibility with smartphones allows for additional functions like phone calls, texts, and email notifications.
Garmin Vivoactive 3
Thanks to its touchscreen MIP display, navigation on the Vivoactive 3 is more intuitive and interactive. The watch also supports apps, customization, and compatibility with smartphones but does not have a vibration function or voice activation capabilities.
Comparison of user interface and user experience
The main difference between the Fenix 3 and Vivoactive 3's interfaces is the latter’s touchscreen, which might be preferable for users accustomed to using smartphones. However, the Fenix 3 still offers excellent functionality through its physical buttons, with those who prefer a tactile experience in mind.
Price and Value
Garmin Fenix 3
With an estimated price of around $500, the Fenix 3 offers durability, long battery life, and a wide range of features that provide excellent value for the price.
Garmin Vivoactive 3
Priced at around $299, the Vivoactive 3 may appeal to buyers looking for a more affordable option without sacrificing quality or features, making it a solid contender in the smartwatch market.
Comparison of price and value
While the Fenix 3 and Vivoactive 3 each offer unique features that cater to different preferences, the Vivoactive 3 presents a slightly more budget-friendly choice without sacrificing the quality Garmin is known for. If cost is a significant factor, the Vivoactive 3 may be the ideal choice for you.
Conclusion
Considering the features, design, and functionality of the Garmin Fenix 3 and the Garmin Vivoactive 3, the ultimate decision comes down to personal preference. If you prioritize a more rugged design, extended battery life, and aren’t in need of a heart rate monitor, the Fenix 3 might be the right choice. However, those seeking a lighter, touchscreen-enabled device with additional biometric tracking abilities may find the slightly more affordable Vivoactive 3 a better fit for their needs. Regardless of your choice, either watch will provide a seamless and user-friendly experience, showcasing Garmin’s commitment to high-quality wearables.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the Garmin Fenix 3 waterproof?
Yes, the Garmin Fenix 3 boasts a water resistance rating of 10 ATM, making it suitable for swimming and other water-based activities.
Can the Garmin Vivoactive 3 track heart rate?
Yes, the Garmin Vivoactive 3 features a built-in heart rate monitor, allowing users to track their heart rates during exercises or daily activities.
What are the battery lifes for Fenix 3 and Vivoactive 3?
The Fenix 3 has a battery life of up to 50 hours in GPS mode or six weeks when used as a watch. The Vivoactive 3 has a battery life of up to seven days, depending on usage.
What kind of fitness tracking features do both watches offer?
Both the Fenix 3 and the Vivoactive 3 offer a wide array of fitness tracking features, including step, sleep, distance, cycling, and swim tracking. The Vivoactive 3 also has a heart rate monitor, which the Fenix 3 lacks.
Are both watches compatible with smartphones?
Yes, both the Garmin Fenix 3 and the Garmin Vivoactive 3 can connect with Android and iOS smartphones, allowing users to receive notifications, make phone calls, and send texts through the watches.
