Garmin Vivoactive vs. Garmin Fenix 5x Plus

 
Vivoactive
Fenix 5x Plus
 GarminVivoactiveBuy NowGarminFenix 5x PlusBuy Now

Basic Info

Suggested Price$250$850
Release20152018

Activity & Fitness

Calories
Cycling (Bicycling)
Distance
Heart
Oxygen
Sleep
Steps
Swim

Battery

Duration14 hours to 11 days20 days
Rechargeable

Compatibility

Android
iOS
Windows Phonen/a
Macn/a
Windowsn/a

Connectivity

Bluetooth
Cellular
GPS
NFC
Wi-Fi

Display

Color
Resolution205 x 148240 x 240
Size1.38 inches1.2 inches
Touch
TypeLCDMIP

Functions

Audio Speaker
Clock
Phone
Vibration
Voice

Hardware

Accelerometer
Barometer or Altimeter
Ultraviolet Sensor
Water Resistance5 ATM10 ATM

Notifications

Phone
Emails
Texts

Software

Operating Systemn/aWear OS
Apps
Music

Comparing Fenix 5x Plus and Vivoactive

The Garmin Fenix 5x Plus and the Garmin Vivoactive are two popular smartwatches aimed at fitness enthusiasts who demand exceptional performance and diverse features from their wearables. Choosing the right smartwatch is crucial for ensuring you get the most out of your investment, so it’s important to compare the offerings of each device to determine which one will be the best fit for you and your lifestyle.

Brands often play a significant role in the decision-making process, as brand reputation and history indicate the quality of products on offer. Garmin is a renowned global leader in wearables with a rich history of providing reliable and innovative products, making devices like the Fenix 5x Plus and Vivoactive popular choices. This article will provide an in-depth comparison between the Garmin Fenix 5x Plus and the Garmin Vivoactive, covering design, features, user experience, value for money, and frequently asked questions to help you make an informed decision.

Design and Build

Garmin Fenix 5x Plus

The Fenix 5x Plus features a rugged design with a stainless steel bezel, sapphire glass, and a silicone strap, making it suitable for demanding outdoor activities. The size and weight of the device are 1.85 x 1.85 x 0.68 inches and 96g (with a silicone strap), respectively, while the screen offers a 240 x 240-pixel resolution MIP display that is 1.2 inches in size.

Garmin Vivoactive

On the other hand, the Garmin Vivoactive has a sleeker and more lightweight design, featuring a plastic bezel, resin casing, and LCD display. Measuring 1.72 x 1.52 x 0.32 inches and weighing 38g, the Vivoactive Screen boasts a 205 x 148-pixel resolution on a 1.38-inch LCD display.

Comparison of design and build quality

While both devices are designed to withstand the rigors of dailywear and workouts, the Fenix 5x Plus is more robust and better suited for demanding outdoor adventures. In contrast, the Vivoactive is lighter and sleeker, making it a perfect fit for everyday use and less intense activities. Both devices offer water resistance, with the Fenix 5x Plus rated at 10 ATM and the Vivoactive rated at 5 ATM.

Features and Functionality

Garmin Fenix 5x Plus

The Fenix 5x Plus runs on Wear OS, offering a wide range of features such as GPS, Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, and sensors including heart rate, accelerometer, and barometer. The device comes with a music function, audio speaker, and text and email notifications, making it versatile and functional. With up to 20 days of battery life on a single charge, the Fenix 5x Plus ensures you stay connected while engaged in various physical activities. Moreover, the Fenix 5x Plus is designed to provide superb fitness tracking, including cycling, swimming, and oxygen tracking, amongst other capabilities.

Garmin Vivoactive

The Vivoactive, on the other hand, offers a more streamlined set of features. Running on a custom operating system, the Vivoactive sports GPS, Bluetooth connectivity, heart rate, and accelerometer sensors. Although the device lacks Wi-Fi and barometer functionality, it compensates by offering up to 11 days of battery life depending on usage. The Vivoactive also comes capable of tracking fitness activities such as cycling, swimming, distance, and sleep, but it lacks dedicated oxygen tracking features.

Comparison of features and performance

Both the Fenix 5x Plus and the Vivoactive offer impressive fitness tracking capabilities, satisfying the needs of most users. However, the Fenix 5x Plus boasts a more comprehensive selection of features, sensors, and tracking capabilities, catering to more demanding fitness enthusiasts. The Vivoactive, while less feature-packed, is a suitable alternative for those seeking a more budget-friendly option with a focus on fundamental fitness tracking needs.

User Interface and User Experience

Garmin Fenix 5x Plus

The Fenix 5x Plus provides an intuitive display and navigation experience, thanks to its touchscreen MIP display, customizable apps, and compatibility with both Android and iOS smartphones. The device offers a versatile onscreen experience to suit various user preferences and ensure easy access to essential functions, notifications, and fitness tracking.

Garmin Vivoactive

Similarly, the Vivoactive presents an approachable touch-based interface on its LCD display. While it may lack app customization, it is still compatible with both Android and iOS smartphones, allowing users to stay connected and access essential features with ease.

Comparison of user interface and user experience

Both smartwatches offer user-friendly interfaces that make accessing their features and functions trouble-free. However, the Fenix 5x Plus takes the lead with its more comprehensive set of functionalities and customization options, offering a better overall user experience for those looking to get more out of their smartwatch.

Price and Value

Garmin Fenix 5x Plus

Priced at $850, the Fenix 5x Plus understandably comes with a higher price tag compared to the Vivoactive. However, its top-notch build quality, robust features, and extensive functionality justify the cost for those willing to make an investment in their fitness and outdoor companion.

Garmin Vivoactive

At $250, the Vivoactive offers users an affordable yet powerful smartwatch experience without breaking the bank. Though it lacks some of the premium features found in the Fenix 5x Plus, it still manages to deliver an excellent fitness tracking experience for the majority of users.

Comparison of price and value

Ultimately, the choice between the Fenix 5x Plus and the Vivoactive comes down to individual preferences and budget considerations. The higher price of the Fenix 5x Plus equates to more features and functionalities, making it appealing to those desiring a truly top-of-the-line device. However, the Vivoactive’s budget-friendly price and impressive performance make it ideal for users who prioritize value over more advanced features.

Conclusion

In summary, both the Garmin Fenix 5x Plus and the Garmin Vivoactive offer excellent fitness tracking, intuitive user experiences, and reliable performance. While the Fenix 5x Plus outshines the Vivoactive in terms of features, build quality, and customization options, the Vivoactive remains a strong contender for users seeking good value for their money without compromising on quality. Ultimately, the decision between the two devices depends on individual preferences, budget, and desired level of functionality.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are both devices compatible with all smartphones?

Both the Garmin Fenix 5x Plus and Vivoactive are compatible with Android and iOS smartphones, but neither is compatible with Windows Phones.

Do both watches offer music functionality?

Yes, both the Fenix 5x Plus and Vivoactive offer music functionality for users who want to listen to tunes while tracking their fitness.

Do the watches have interchangeable straps?

Yes, both the Fenix 5x Plus and Vivoactive have interchangeable straps, allowing users to customize the look and feel of their watch to match their style or specific activity needs.

Is it possible to receive notifications on both devices?

Yes, both the Fenix 5x Plus and Vivoactive can receive notifications for texts, emails, and phone calls when connected to a compatible smartphone.

Can I use either watch for open water swimming?

Both the Fenix 5x Plus and the Vivoactive can be used for swimming thanks to their water resistance ratings (10 ATM for the Fenix 5x Plus and 5 ATM for the Vivoactive).

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