Comparing Vivosport and Fenix 3
Garmin Fenix 3 and Garmin Vivosport are two popular fitness watches that offer unique features to cater to different needs. Choosing the right watch can be a challenging task, as it involves understanding the features, design, and performance of each product.
Garmin is a renowned brand in the world of wearables, known for its high-quality GPS devices and fitness trackers. Both Fenix 3 and Vivosport are part of Garmin’s extensive range of products designed to help users achieve their fitness goals. In this article, we will take a comprehensive look at both watches and compare their design, features, user interface, price, and value.
Design and Build
Garmin Fenix 3
The Garmin Fenix 3 is built with stainless steel and has a round shape with a 1.2-inch Chroma LED display. The screen resolution is 218 x 218 pixels, which offers a clear and bright display. The watch is water-resistant up to 10 ATM and weighs around 82 grams, making it a durable and reliable choice for various activities.
Garmin Vivosport
On the other hand, the Garmin Vivosport is more compact and lightweight. It features a rectangular design with a 72 x 144 pixel Memory-in-Pixel (MIP) touchscreen display. The Vivosport is also water-resistant up to 5 ATM. This slimmer design makes it a comfortable fit for everyday wear.
Comparison of design and build quality
While both watches are water-resistant and durable, the Fenix 3 offers a more rugged and premium feel. In contrast, the Vivosport has a sleek and modern aesthetic. The choice between the two primarily depends on personal preferences and the type of activities a user plans to engage in.
Features and Functionality
Garmin Fenix 3
Garmin Fenix 3 offers plenty of features, including GPS, sleep tracking, distance tracking, and cycling tracking. It also provides an excellent battery life, ranging from 50 hours to 6 weeks, depending on usage. The watch is compatible with both Android and iOS devices and features Bluetooth connectivity.
Garmin Vivosport
Garmin Vivosport provides similar features, such as calorie and sleep tracking, GPS, heart rate monitoring, and VO2 max estimation. The battery life is slightly more limited, lasting up to 7 days with regular use. The Vivosport is also compatible with Android and iOS devices and includes Bluetooth connectivity.
Comparison of features and performance
The Fenix 3 and Vivosport are quite similar in terms of features and performance. The main differences include battery life and design. Those who prioritize an extended battery life and a rugged design may prefer the Fenix 3. In contrast, users who want a lightweight and sleek fitness tracker might choose the Vivosport.
User Interface and User Experience
Garmin Fenix 3
Garmin Fenix 3's user interface is designed for ease of use, with physical buttons for navigation. It supports custom watch faces and offers access to the Connect IQ store for additional apps to enhance user experience. The watch is also compatible with smartphones, enabling features such as phone notifications, emails, texts, and music controls.
Garmin Vivosport
The Garmin Vivosport features a touchscreen display for improved navigation and offers customizable watch faces. It also supports smartphone notifications for calls, texts, and emails. While it does not support the Connect IQ store, the Vivosport offers a simple user interface focused on fitness tracking and basic smart features.
Comparison of user interface and user experience
The choice between Fenix 3 and Vivosport largely depends on personal preferences regarding navigation and user experience. Fenix 3 caters to users who prefer a more traditional watch feel with buttons, whereas Vivosport is ideal for those seeking a modern user experience with a touchscreen display.
Price and Value
Garmin Fenix 3
With a price tag of $500, the Garmin Fenix 3 offers a complete package of fitness and smart features in a premium design. The watch represents good value for those who are willing to invest in a high-quality, durable fitness tracker.
Garmin Vivosport
At $199, Garmin Vivosport offers competitive features at a more affordable price. While it may lack some of the advanced functionalities and customization options found in the Fenix 3, it still provides a comfortable and user-friendly fitness tracking experience.
Comparison of price and value
The Fenix 3 is for users who seek a premium experience with a wider range of features and customization options. The Vivosport, on the other hand, is an excellent choice for those looking for a budget-friendly, yet functional fitness tracker.
Conclusion
In the comparison of Garmin Fenix 3 and Garmin Vivosport, both devices have their merits. Users who value premium design, advanced features, and extended battery life may opt for the Fenix 3. Conversely, those who prioritize a compact design, touch screen, and a lower price tag might find the Vivosport more appealing.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which Garmin watch is best for swimming?
Both the Fenix 3 and Vivosport offer swim tracking, but the Fenix 3 has a better water resistance rating of 10 ATM, whereas the Vivosport is rated at 5 ATM.
Is the Garmin Vivosport good for cycling?
Yes, the Garmin Vivosport features cycling tracking, making it suitable for cyclists.
Can I use the Garmin Fenix 3 without a smartphone?
The Fenix 3 can function as a standalone device, but some features rely on smartphone connectivity, such as notifications, music controls, and access to the Connect IQ store.
Is the Garmin Vivosport compatible with Mac and Windows computers?
The Garmin Vivosport does not have direct compatibility with Mac or Windows computers for data syncing. However, users can sync their data via the Garmin Connect app on their smartphones.
Which model has a better battery life, Fenix 3 or Vivosport?
The Garmin Fenix 3 has a superior battery life, ranging from 50 hours to 6 weeks, depending on usage, compared to the Vivosport’s 7-day maximum battery life.
