Comparing Fenix 5 and Vivosmart
Garmin Fenix 5 and Garmin Vivosmart are two popular wearables developed by Garmin, a leading global provider of navigation and wearable technology. Both devices offer various features and functionalities to cater to different user preferences and needs.
Choosing the right smartwatch is essential since these wearable devices can significantly impact the way people manage their daily activities, health, and fitness. It is important to select a device that can cater to individual requirements to ensure a satisfying user experience.
Garmin has a solid reputation for developing high-quality wearables with advanced features designed for various users. Established in 1989, the company has since dedicated itself to developing innovative and reliable products for marine, aviation, automotive, and outdoor applications.
In this article, we will delve into a comprehensive comparison between the Garmin Fenix 5 and Garmin Vivosmart, discussing their design and build, features and functionalities, user experience, and value for the price to help prospective buyers choose the best option that suits their needs.
Design and Build
Garmin Fenix 5
- Materials: Stainless steel, sapphire crystal glass, and silicone strap
- Size and weight: 47 x 47 x 15.5 mm, 85 g
- Display/screen: 1.2 inches, 240 x 240 pixels color display
Garmin Vivosmart
- Materials: Silicone strap, glass front
- Size and weight: 21 x 10.5 x 197 mm, 19 g
- Display/screen: 1.41 inches, 128 x 16 pixels OLED display
Comparison of design and build quality
While both devices have their unique design characteristics, the Garmin Fenix 5 has a more rugged and robust appearance, making it suitable for outdoor enthusiasts and serious athletes. On the other hand, the Garmin Vivosmart has a sleek and slim design, which makes it ideal for everyday use and less intensive fitness activities. The Fenix 5 is significantly heavier and larger, catering to users who prefer a more substantial, feature-packed device, while the Vivosmart offers a lighter and more compact option.
Features and Functionality
Garmin Fenix 5
- Operating system: Garmin OS
- Sensors: GPS, GLONASS, heart rate monitor, barometric altimeter, compass, gyroscope, accelerometer, thermometer
- Battery life: Up to 2 weeks in smartwatch mode
- Fitness tracking: Calorie, distance, steps, sleep, heart rate, swim, and cycling tracking
- Other features: Music control, smartphone notifications, ANT+ and Bluetooth connectivity, and more
Garmin Vivosmart
- Operating system: Garmin OS
- Sensors: Accelerometer, optical heart rate monitor (Vivosmart HR model)
- Battery life: Up to 7 days
- Fitness tracking: Calorie, distance, steps, and sleep tracking
- Other features: Music control, smartphone notifications, Bluetooth connectivity, and more
Comparison of features and performance
The Garmin Fenix 5 offers a more comprehensive set of features, including advanced sensors like GPS, GLONASS, barometric altimeter, and compass, which are absent in the Vivosmart. It also has a longer battery life, making it ideal for users who want a versatile device without the need for frequent charging. However, the Vivosmart, being a more affordable option, provides essential tracking features for casual users, such as steps, calories, distance, and sleep tracking without overwhelming them with complex functionalities.
User Interface and User Experience
Garmin Fenix 5
- Display: 1.2 inches color display with 240 x 240 pixels resolution
- Navigation: Five-button interface
- Apps and customization: Connect IQ app store for additional apps, watch faces, and widgets
- Compatibility: Android, iOS, and Windows Phone
Garmin Vivosmart
- Display: 1.41 inches OLED display with 128 x 16 pixels resolution
- Navigation: Touch-sensitive strip
- Apps and customization: Limited app support and customization options
- Compatibility: Android and iOS
Comparison of user interface and user experience
Both devices offer different user experiences, with the Garmin Fenix 5 incorporating a five-button interface and a more extensive range of third-party apps, watch faces, and widgets compared to the Vivosmart. Conversely, the Vivosmart offers a more straightforward interface with a touch-sensitive strip, making it ideal for users who prefer a simpler smartwatch experience. With regards to compatibility, the Fenix 5's compatibility with Windows Phone sets it apart from the Vivosmart, which is only compatible with Android and iOS devices.
Price and Value
Garmin Fenix 5
The Garmin Fenix 5 is priced at $599.99, offering a premium device with a wide array of features for those serious about their fitness and outdoor activities.
Garmin Vivosmart
With a price of $170, the Vivosmart provides essential tracking features at a more affordable price point, perfect for casual users and those just starting their fitness journey.
Comparison of price and value
While the Fenix 5 offers a more extensive set of features, it comes at a significantly higher price. The Vivosmart, albeit with its limitations, provides essential tracking features at a more accessible price point. Ultimately, the value that either device offers will depend on the individual’s requirements and preferences.
Conclusion
Overall, the Garmin Fenix 5 and Garmin Vivosmart cater to different types of users with varied needs and preferences. The rugged and feature-rich Fenix 5 is suitable for serious athletes and outdoor enthusiasts, while the sleek and lightweight Vivosmart is perfect for casual users seeking essential fitness tracking capabilities. As a potential buyer, it is essential to evaluate your needs and preferences to decide which device offers the best value for your specific requirements.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the Garmin Fenix 5 suitable for swimming?
Yes, the Fenix 5 is water-resistant up to 10 ATM and is designed to track swimming activities effectively.
Does the Garmin Vivosmart have GPS capabilities?
No, the Garmin Vivosmart does not have built-in GPS capabilities.
Are both the Fenix 5 and Vivosmart compatible with all smartphones?
While both devices are compatible with Android and iOS devices, only the Fenix 5 is compatible with Windows Phone devices.
Can I control music playback using either the Garmin Fenix 5 or the Vivosmart?
Yes, both the Fenix 5 and Vivosmart allow users to control music playback on their connected smartphones.
Do both devices offer smartphone notifications and alerts?
Yes, both the Garmin Fenix 5 and Vivosmart provide users with smartphone notifications and alerts for calls, texts, and emails when connected to a compatible device.
