Comparing Fenix 5X and Forerunner 735XT
Garmin Fenix 5X and Garmin Forerunner 735XT are two popular GPS watches designed for fitness enthusiasts who want to track their activities and improve their performance. Both watches come from the reputed brand Garmin, which has a long-standing history of producing high-quality and reliable GPS watches and fitness trackers.
With a wide range of features, these watches can monitor various fitness activities, including running, cycling, swimming, and more. By choosing the right watch to match your specific needs, you can make the most of your workouts and reach your fitness goals.
In this article, we will dive deep into the details of both Garmin Fenix 5X and Garmin Forerunner 735XT. We’ll discuss design and build, features and functionality, user interface and user experience, price and value, and frequently asked questions. This comprehensive comparison will help you make an informed decision and choose the best watch for your needs.
Design and Build
Garmin Fenix 5X
Materials used: Stainless steel bezel and Sapphire crystal lens
Size: 51mm x 51mm x 17.5mm
Weight: 196 grams
Display: 1.2-inch color display with a resolution of 240 x 240 pixels
Garmin Forerunner 735XT
Materials used: Bezel made of fiber-reinforced polymer, and display made of chemically strengthened glass
Size: 44.5mm x 44.5mm x 11.9mm
Weight: 40.2 grams
Display: 1.23-inch color display with a resolution of 215 x 180 pixels
Comparison of design and build quality
Although both watches come from the same brand, they have different designs and build materials. The Fenix 5X offers a more rugged and robust design with a stainless steel bezel and Sapphire crystal lens, while the Forerunner 735XT is lighter and more suitable for those looking for a compact watch. The Fenix 5X has a higher resolution display, which makes it easier to read in various lighting conditions.
Features and Functionality
Garmin Fenix 5X
Operating System: Garmin Connect
Sensors: GPS, GLONASS, heart rate monitor, barometric altimeter, compass, gyroscope, accelerometer, thermometer
Battery Life: Up to 12 days in Smartwatch mode, 20 hours in GPS mode
Fitness Tracking: Steps, calories, distance, sleep, heart rate, VO2 Max, oxygen tracking, and multisport tracking (including swimming, running, cycling, and more)
Other Features: Smart notifications, Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, ANT+ compatibility, music control, and GPS navigation with preloaded maps
Garmin Forerunner 735XT
Operating System: Garmin Connect
Sensors: GPS, GLONASS, heart rate monitor, compass, accelerometer
Battery Life: Up to 11 days in Smartwatch mode, 14 hours in GPS mode
Fitness Tracking: Steps, calories, distance, sleep, heart rate, VO2 Max, and multisport tracking (including swimming, running, cycling, and more)
Other Features: Smart notifications, Bluetooth, ANT+ compatibility, music control, and basic GPS navigation
Comparison of features and performance
Both watches offer comprehensive fitness tracking and GPS functionality, with the Fenix 5X having additional sensors such as barometric altimeter and gyroscope. The Fenix 5X also offers more advanced GPS navigation with preloaded maps, while the Forerunner 735XT provides basic GPS navigation. The Fenix 5X has a longer battery life in Smartwatch mode, but when using GPS, the Forerunner 735XT lasts slightly longer.
User Interface and User Experience
Garmin Fenix 5X
Display: 1.2-inch color display with a resolution of 240 x 240 pixels
Navigation: Five buttons for functionality control
Apps and Customization: Connect IQ Store for downloading additional apps, watch faces, and data fields
Compatibility: Android, iOS, and Windows Phone
Garmin Forerunner 735XT
Display: 1.23-inch color display with a resolution of 215 x 180 pixels
Navigation: Five buttons for functionality control
Apps and Customization: Connect IQ Store for downloading additional apps, watch faces, and data fields
Compatibility: Android and iOS
Comparison of user interface and user experience
Both watches utilize button navigation, making them easy to use during workouts. They also offer a similar user interface, with access to the Connect IQ Store for additional apps and customization options. The Fenix 5X has a slightly bigger display with a higher resolution, which may make it easier to read in various lighting conditions.
Price and Value
Garmin Fenix 5X
Cost: $699
Value for Money: Offers a wide range of advanced features and a longer battery life
Garmin Forerunner 735XT
Cost: $450
Value for Money: Provides comprehensive fitness tracking features and a more affordable price
Comparison of price and value
While the Garmin Fenix 5X has more advanced features and a more rugged build, it comes at a higher price compared to the Forerunner 735XT. The Forerunner 735XT offers a more budget-friendly option without sacrificing many features, making it a great value for those who need comprehensive fitness tracking but don’t require the additional capabilities offered by the Fenix 5X.
Conclusion
Choosing between the Garmin Fenix 5X and Forerunner 735XT ultimately depends on your specific needs, budget, and preferences. If you need a rugged, feature-rich watch and are willing to pay a premium, the Fenix 5X is an excellent choice. However, if you’re looking for a more compact, budget-friendly option with comprehensive fitness tracking features, the Forerunner 735XT may be a better fit.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are Garmin Fenix 5X and Forerunner 735XT waterproof?
Both watches are water-resistant. The Fenix 5X features water resistance of up to 10 ATM, while the Forerunner 735XT is water-resistant up to 5 ATM.
Can I use these watches for swimming?
Yes, both the Fenix 5X and Forerunner 735XT have swim tracking features and can be used during swimming activities.
Do they have built-in music storage and playback?
Both watches offer music control functionality, allowing you to control the music on your connected smartphone. However, neither watch has built-in music storage and playback capabilities.
Do I need to carry my smartphone while running to use GPS and fitness tracking features?
No, both the Fenix 5X and Forerunner 735XT have built-in GPS, which means you do not need to carry your smartphone for GPS and fitness tracking features to function.
Are they compatible with external sensors like heart rate chest straps and cycling speed sensors?
Both watches support ANT+ connectivity, which allows them to connect with various external sensors like heart rate chest straps, cycling speed sensors, and more.
