Comparing Forerunner 235 and Forerunner 935
When it comes to choosing a fitness watch, it’s important to find one that fits your needs and preferences. The Garmin Forerunner 235 and the Garmin Forerunner 935 are two popular options worth considering. Both watches are designed to track various fitness activities and provide useful information that can help you maximize your workouts.
These watches come from Garmin, a well-known and reputable brand in the world of wearables. Garmin has a long history of producing high-quality GPS technology and devices, including watches that cater to a wide range of users, from casual exercisers to professional athletes.
In this article, we will dive deep into the various aspects of these two watches, such as design, features, user interface, price, and more. Keep reading to find out how these two Garmin devices measure up against each other and to help you make an informed decision on which one best suits your needs.
Design and Build
Garmin Forerunner 235
The Garmin Forerunner 235 is designed with a mix of durable materials, including a silicone wristband, a sturdy plastic case, and a glass screen. The watch measures 1.77 x 1.77 x 0.46 inches and weighs 1.5 ounces, making it relatively lightweight and comfortable to wear. The display is a 1.23-inch MIP (Memory-In-Pixel) screen with a resolution of 215 x 180 pixels.
Garmin Forerunner 935
On the other hand, the Garmin Forerunner 935 is made with a combination of premium materials such as a fiber-reinforced polymer case, a silicone wristband, and a chemically strengthened glass screen. It measures 1.85 x 1.85 x 0.55 inches and weighs 1.7 ounces. The display is a slightly larger 1.2-inch LCD screen featuring a higher resolution of 240 x 240 pixels.
Comparison of design and build quality
When comparing the Garmin Forerunner 235 and Forerunner 935, there are some differences in terms of design and build quality. The Forerunner 935 has a more robust construction with its fiber-reinforced polymer case, a larger and high-resolution display, and a slightly heavier design. Both watches feature water resistance up to 5 ATM, but the Forerunner 935 incorporates additional features like a barometer and altimeter, which the Forerunner 235 lacks.
Features and Functionality
Garmin Forerunner 235
The Garmin Forerunner 235 is packed with a range of features, including GPS tracking, heart rate monitoring, sleep tracking, and more. The watch is compatible with both Android and iOS, but not with Windows phones. It lacks cellular functionality, Wi-Fi, and NFC, but it comes equipped with Bluetooth connectivity. The battery life is roughly 9 days, depending on usage.
Garmin Forerunner 935
The Garmin Forerunner 935 boasts an impressive list of advanced features that cater to a variety of users. It shares many of the features found in the Forerunner 235, like GPS, heart rate monitoring, sleep and swim tracking, and compatibility with Android, iOS, and Windows phones. However, the Forerunner 935 also includes NFC, Wi-Fi, a barometer, and altimeter. The battery life is notably longer, reaching up to 2 weeks in regular mode.
Comparison of features and performance
Comparing the features and performance of the Forerunner 235 and Forerunner 935, it’s clear that the latter comes out ahead. It offers more advanced features, has a longer battery life, and is compatible with a wider range of devices. While the Forerunner 235 still offers an impressive array of features, the Forerunner 935 seems better equipped for serious athletes and fitness enthusiasts.
User Interface and User Experience
Garmin Forerunner 235
The Garmin Forerunner 235 features a color display with touch functionality, allowing users to navigate the watch menu and customize the interface with ease. It is compatible with various smartphone apps and allows for notifications and alerts, such as calls, texts, and emails.
Garmin Forerunner 935
Similarly, the Garmin Forerunner 935 presents a color touch display designed for an intuitive user interface. It also supports a wide range of apps and customization options, and it is compatible with smartphones, providing notifications for calls, texts, and emails.
Comparison of user interface and user experience
Both the Forerunner 235 and Forerunner 935 offer a similar user interface and experience with their touchscreens and customization options. They both support smartphone compatibility and notification features, making them user-friendly and convenient for daily use. While they share similarities in this area, the Forerunner 935 provides slightly better navigation and a higher resolution screen for a more vibrant display.
Price and Value
Garmin Forerunner 235
The Garmin Forerunner 235 is priced at $299.99, making it an attractive option for those looking for a wallet-friendly fitness watch that doesn’t compromise on quality or features.
Garmin Forerunner 935
The Garmin Forerunner 935 costs $500, which is significantly higher than the Forerunner 235. However, the added features, functionality, and extra durability could justify the price for those looking for a more advanced fitness watch.
Comparison of price and value
When comparing price and value, both devices offer advantages based on the user’s needs and budget. The Forerunner 235 is a more affordable option with essential features, while the Forerunner 935 delivers a higher price point with a greater range of advanced features for serious fitness enthusiasts.
Conclusion
Choosing between the Garmin Forerunner 235 and Forerunner 935 depends on your specific needs, preferences, and budget. The Forerunner 235 is a solid choice for those in search of a budget-friendly watch with essential fitness-tracking features, while the Forerunner 935 is better suited for serious athletes who require more advanced options and better performance.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the main difference between the Garmin Forerunner 235 and 935?
The Garmin Forerunner 935 has a more durable build and more advanced features compared to the Forerunner 235.
Can I use the Garmin Forerunner 235 and 935 for swimming?
Yes, both watches have swim tracking and are water-resistant up to 5 ATM.
Is the Garmin Forerunner 235 compatible with Windows phones?
No, the Garmin Forerunner 235 is not compatible with Windows phones, but the Forerunner 935 is.
How long do the batteries in the Garmin Forerunner 235 and 935 typically last?
The Forerunner 235 has a battery life of around 9 days, while the Forerunner 935 has a longer battery life of up to 2 weeks.
Can I receive smartphone notifications on the Garmin Forerunner 235 and 935?
Yes, both watches support smartphone notifications for calls, text messages, and emails.
