Comparing Forerunner 235 and Fenix 5s Plus
The Garmin Fenix 5s Plus and Garmin Forerunner 235 are two popular wearable devices specially designed for fitness enthusiasts. Both offer unique features and cater to different types of users, from casual walkers to professional athletes. As such, understanding the particular needs and requirements of each user becomes essential in making the right choice between these two devices.
Garmin, a well-known brand in the GPS technology industry, has a long history of producing high-quality fitness trackers and smartwatches. The company is known for its commitment to quality and innovative designs, making it a leading choice for many users searching for reliable wearables.
The following comprehensive comparison will focus on the design, build quality, features, UI, UX, price, value, and frequently asked questions about these devices, providing a detailed insight into their similarities, differences, and overall performance.
Design and Build
Garmin Fenix 5s Plus
The Fenix 5s Plus has a sturdy build, featuring stainless steel or titanium bezels and a 1.2-inch MIP color display with a resolution of 240 x 240 pixels. The watch is lightweight, easy to wear, and offers a robust design that enhances its durability in various environments. Its water resistance of 10 ATM makes it suitable for swimming and snorkeling activities.
Garmin Forerunner 235
On the other hand, the Forerunner 235 has a more minimalist design, with a lightweight body and a comfortable fit. The 1.23-inch MIP color display has a resolution of 215 x 180 pixels, and the watch is water-resistant up to 5 ATM, making it suitable for shallow water activities like swimming or splashing. However, it may not be ideal for more rigorous underwater or water sports activities.
Comparison of design and build quality
While both watches feature a robust build and attractive design, the Fenix 5s Plus exhibits a more premium and durable appearance, making it more suitable for extreme environments and adventurous users. Meanwhile, the Forerunner 235 provides a simpler design for casual fitness enthusiasts, with a comfortable fit and a slimmer profile.
Features and Functionality
Garmin Fenix 5s Plus
The Fenix 5s Plus runs on Wear OS, with features like GPS, Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, a barometer, accelerometer, and music function. The device offers a battery life of up to 7 days in smartwatch mode and provides extensive fitness tracking capabilities like calories, cycling (bicycling), distance, heart rate, oxygen level, sleep, steps, and swim tracking. Additionally, it is compatible with both Android and iOS smartphones.
Garmin Forerunner 235
Although the Forerunner 235 does not run on a specific operating system, it still packs several essential features, including GPS, Bluetooth, an accelerometer, and music function. The battery life of the Forerunner 235 lasts up to 9 days in smartwatch mode, and it offers similar tracking capabilities like calories, cycling, distance, heart rate, oxygen, sleep, steps, and swim tracking. The device is also compatible with Android and iOS smartphones, albeit with no Wi-Fi connectivity.
Comparison of features and performance
Both devices offer similar tracking capabilities and essential features, with the Fenix 5s Plus having additional benefits like Wi-Fi, NFC, and higher water resistance. The battery life of the Forerunner 235 is slightly better than that of the Fenix 5s Plus, which can be an important factor for some users.
User Interface and User Experience
Garmin Fenix 5s Plus
The Fenix 5s Plus offers a smooth user experience through its intuitive display, easy navigation, customizable apps, and compatibility with a wide range of smartphones. Additionally, it has an audio speaker, clock functions, vibrations, and phone functionalities like text messaging, emails, and phone calls.
Garmin Forerunner 235
Similarly, the Forerunner 235 offers a seamless user interface, with easy navigation and compatibility with Android and iOS smartphones. While it lacks an audio speaker, the device still provides clock functions, vibrations, and phone features like text messaging, emails, and phone calls.
Comparison of user interface and user experience
Both devices offer a satisfactory user experience, with easy navigation and access to features. However, the Fenix 5s Plus has an added advantage with an audio speaker, allowing for better user interaction and alert management.
Price and Value
Garmin Fenix 5s Plus
Priced at $799, the Fenix 5s Plus provides excellent value for its numerous features, making it a suitable choice for users who need a premium, feature-rich watch for fitness tracking and outdoor adventures.
Garmin Forerunner 235
At $299.99, the Forerunner 235 offers a more budget-friendly option, catering to casual fitness enthusiasts who still want essential fitness tracking and smartphone compatibility.
Comparison of price and value
The decision between the Fenix 5s Plus and Forerunner 235 boils down to individual preferences, needs, and budget. The Fenix 5s Plus is ideal for users seeking a premium, feature-rich watch, while the Forerunner 235 provides a more affordable alternative with essential features and functionalities.
Conclusion
Ultimately, both the Garmin Fenix 5s Plus and Forerunner 235 offer unique features and cater to different types of users. While the Fenix 5s Plus provides a premium, feature-rich smartwatch, the Forerunner 235 offers a more budget-friendly option with core fitness tracking capabilities. Careful consideration of one’s requirements and budget can help determine the best-suited device to enhance their fitness journey.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the Forerunner 235 suitable for professional athletes?
Although the Forerunner 235 offers essential fitness tracking features, professional athletes may benefit from investing in a more advanced device like the Fenix 5s Plus, which provides additional features and better durability.
What is the difference between the Fenix 5s Plus and Forerunner 235 in terms of water resistance?
The Fenix 5s Plus is water-resistant up to 10 ATM, making it suitable for swimming and snorkeling, while the Forerunner 235 has a water resistance of 5 ATM, which is ideal for shallow water activities but not recommended for deep water or extreme water sports.
Can I control music playback on the Forerunner 235?
Yes, the Forerunner 235 comes with built-in music controls to manage music playback on your smartphone.
Do both watches support third-party apps?
Yes. Both Fenix 5s Plus and Forerunner 235 support third-party apps through Garmin Connect IQ, allowing users to customize their smartwatch experience.
Do the Fenix 5s Plus and Forerunner 235 offer built-in GPS?
Yes, both devices come with built-in GPS capabilities for tracking distance, speed, and other location-based metrics during outdoor activities.
