Garmin Fenix 5s vs. Garmin Vivofit 4

 
Fenix 5s
Vivofit 4
 GarminFenix 5sBuy NowGarminVivofit 4Buy Now

Basic Info

Suggested Price$599.99$79.95
Release20172018

Activity & Fitness

Calories
Cycling (Bicycling)
Distance
Heart
Oxygen
Sleep
Steps
Swim

Battery

DurationUp to 9 days1 year
Rechargeable

Compatibility

Android
iOS
Windows Phone
Mac
Windows

Connectivity

Bluetooth
Cellular
GPS
NFC
Wi-Fi

Display

Color
Resolution218x 21888 x 88
Size1.1 inchesNA
Touch
TypenaNA

Functions

Audio Speaker
Clock
Phone
Vibration
Voice

Hardware

Accelerometer
Barometer or Altimeter
Ultraviolet Sensor
Water Resistance10ATM5 ATM

Notifications

Phone
Emails
Texts

Software

Operating System
Apps
Music

Comparing Vivofit 4 and Fenix 5s

Choosing between the Garmin Fenix 5s and the Garmin Vivofit 4 can be quite a task, as both watches come equipped with an array of features to fit various needs. The importance of selecting the right watch cannot be overstated, as it can significantly impact one’s fitness journey and overall experience with wearables.

Garmin is a well-known brand with a strong reputation for producing high-quality GPS technology and wearable devices. Established in 1989, the company places a strong emphasis on innovation and durability across its product range.

In this article, we’ll dive deep into the world of the Garmin Fenix 5s and the Garmin Vivofit 4, comparing their design, features, user interface, price, and value. This comprehensive breakdown should help you make an informed decision when choosing between the two devices.

Design and Build

Garmin Fenix 5s

The Garmin Fenix 5s boasts a robust design with a stainless steel bezel and a case made from fiber-reinforced polymer. The device’s dimensions are 42 x 42 x 15 mm, with a weight of 67 grams. It features a 1.1-inch color display with a resolution of 218 x 218 pixels.

Garmin Vivofit 4

On the other hand, the Garmin Vivofit 4 has a sleek design comprised of a polymer case and silicone strap. The precise dimensions of the Vivofit 4 vary based on the band size, but it has a weight of around 25 grams. The device features an 88 x 88-pixel color display with a custom font.

Comparison of Design and Build Quality

While both devices are well-built, the Fenix 5s is more rugged and better suited for extreme outdoor activities. In comparison, the Vivofit 4 is more lightweight and streamlined, making it a suitable option for daily wear and casual exercising. The Fenix 5s has more screen real estate, offering better visibility, whereas the Vivofit 4 focuses on compactness.

Features and Functionality

Garmin Fenix 5s

The Garmin Fenix 5s runs on the Garmin OS, and is known for its comprehensive fitness tracking capabilities, such as monitoring cycling, distance, heart rate, oxygen levels, sleep, steps, and swimming. The watch has a battery life of up to nine days and is rechargeable. The Fenix 5s is also compatible with Android, iOS, and Windows phones, offering Bluetooth and Wi-Fi connectivity, along with built-in GPS.

Garmin Vivofit 4

The Vivofit 4, while not as feature-rich as the Fenix 5s, still offers essential fitness tracking capabilities like monitoring calories, distance, sleep, steps, and swimming. It has an impressive battery life of one year and does not require recharging, but runs on a replaceable battery. The Vivofit 4 is compatible with Android and iOS devices, featuring Bluetooth connectivity, but lacks GPS and Wi-Fi capabilities.

Comparison of Features and Performance

Comparing these two devices, the Fenix 5s offers a wider range of fitness tracking features and smartwatch capabilities, while the Vivofit 4 primarily focuses on health and fitness monitoring. This makes the Fenix 5s a better choice for individuals seeking a comprehensive fitness tracker, while the Vivofit 4 caters more to users wanting essential tracking features without added complexity.

User Interface and User Experience

Garmin Fenix 5s

The Garmin Fenix 5s offers a variety of built-in apps and is customizable. It provides compatibility with smartphones, allowing users to receive notifications, control music, and more. The device’s display and navigation are known for their clarity and ease of use.

Garmin Vivofit 4

The Vivofit 4 has a simpler user interface and is primarily focused on fitness tracking. It does not offer built-in apps or customization options but is still compatible with smartphones for notifications.

Comparison of User Interface and User Experience

The Fenix 5s provides a more advanced user interface with a broader range of capabilities than the Vivofit 4. In contrast, the Vivofit 4 is geared more towards simplicity and ease of use, making it a great option for those who prefer a straightforward approach to fitness tracking.

Price and Value

Garmin Fenix 5s

With a retail price of $599.99, the Garmin Fenix 5s offers a wide array of features, making it a worthwhile investment for fitness enthusiasts seeking a comprehensive, high-quality device.

Garmin Vivofit 4

At $79.95, the Garmin Vivofit 4 is a budget-friendly option, providing essential fitness tracking features for daily use. It’s an excellent choice for those who don’t require advanced tracking abilities or smartwatch functions.

Comparison of Price and Value

The Fenix 5s offers more features at a higher price point, catering to users seeking advanced tracking and smartwatch capabilities. Conversely, the Vivofit 4 provides a balance of practicality and affordability, making it an attractive option for users seeking simplicity and value for money.

Conclusion

Ultimately, choosing between the Garmin Fenix 5s and the Garmin Vivofit 4 comes down to individual needs and preferences. The Fenix 5s is ideal for those looking for a feature-rich device for advanced fitness tracking and smartwatch capabilities. In contrast, the Vivofit 4 is well-suited for users who prefer a simple, budget-friendly option for daily wear and basic fitness tracking.

Frequently Asked Questions

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