Comparing Forerunner 235 and Vivofit 3
Both Garmin Forerunner 235 and Garmin Vivofit 3 are popular fitness devices that cater to individuals with active lifestyles. Selecting the right device is important for enhancing your daily workout routine and keeping track of your progress. Garmin, a world-renowned brand, is known for its high-quality products and innovation in the world of fitness wearables.
Founded in 1989, Garmin has a long-established reputation for creating devices that cater to various niches, including sports and fitness, smartwatches, and GPS navigation. In this article, we will compare the features, design, build quality, performance, value, and user experience of Garmin Forerunner 235 and Garmin Vivofit 3.
Design and Build
Garmin Forerunner 235
The Garmin Forerunner 235 is built with high-quality materials that guarantee durability and longevity. It has a dimensions and weight of 45 x 45 x 11.7 mm and 42 grams, respectively. The 1.23-inch color display has a resolution of 215 x 180 pixels, showcasing a clear and sharp image.
Garmin Vivofit 3
Garmin Vivofit 3, on the other hand, is also designed to last, featuring sturdy materials that can endure daily wear and tear. It has a slightly smaller size and weight with dimensions of 55.5 x 30.2 x 10.3 mm and 28 grams, making it a suitable option for those who prefer a more compact design. The 0.55-inch display provides a resolution of 64 x 64 pixels, with a monochrome screen.
Comparison of Design and Build Quality
Comparing the design and build quality of the two devices, the Forerunner 235 provides a larger color display with a higher resolution, making it more visually appealing. However, the Vivofit 3 offers a more compact design and lighter weight, making it comfortable for extended wear during workouts. Both devices feature a 5 ATM water resistance, enabling users to use them during aquatic activities without damage.
Features and Functionality
Garmin Forerunner 235
Key features of the Garmin Forerunner 235 include:
- Operating system: Proprietary
- Sensors: GPS, heart rate monitor, accelerometer
- Battery life: 9 days
- Fitness tracking: Steps, distance, sleep, calories, and more
- Smartphone compatibility: Android and iOS
Garmin Vivofit 3
Meanwhile, the Garmin Vivofit 3 offers the following:
- Operating system: N/A
- Sensors: Accelerometer
- Battery life: 1 year (non-rechargeable)
- Fitness tracking: Steps, distance, sleep, calories, and more
- Smartphone compatibility: Android, iOS, and Windows Phone
Comparison of Features and Performance
Both devices offer similar fitness-tracking features such as steps, distance, sleep, and calorie counting; however, the Forerunner 235 has the added advantage of heart rate and oxygen monitoring. The Forerunner 235 also offers GPS tracking, which is absent in the Vivofit 3. The expansive battery life of the Vivofit 3, lasting up to a year, makes it stand out from its counterpart, which needs to be recharged every nine days. While both are compatible with Android and iOS, the Vivofit 3 also supports Windows Phone.
User Interface and User Experience
Garmin Forerunner 235
The Forerunner 235 offers a simple user interface with the following features:
- Display: Color MIP display
- Navigation: Touchscreen and buttons
- Apps and customization: Connect IQ apps, watch faces, and widgets
- Smartphone compatibility: Android and iOS
Garmin Vivofit 3
The Vivofit 3 user experience consists of:
- Display: Monochrome display
- Navigation: Non-touch, button controls
- Apps and customization: Limited selection of watch faces and features
- Smartphone compatibility: Android, iOS, and Windows Phone
Comparison of User Interface and User Experience
In comparison, the Garmin Forerunner 235 provides a more intuitive user experience with its color display, touchscreen navigation, and a wider range of apps and customization options through Connect IQ. The Vivofit 3, with its monochrome display and limited customization, may provide a more straightforward, no-frills approach for those who prefer simplicity.
Price and Value
Garmin Forerunner 235
The Garmin Forerunner 235 is priced at $299.99, offering advanced features and customization options for fitness enthusiasts who require a comprehensive training and performance tracking device.
Garmin Vivofit 3
With a price tag of $100, the Garmin Vivofit 3 is a more affordable alternative, catering primarily to those looking for essential fitness tracking features without the additional bells and whistles.
Comparison of Price and Value
Both devices offer value depending on your personal preferences and requirements for fitness tracking. The Forerunner 235, with its advanced features, customizable options, and impressive color display, is better suited for serious athletes and fitness buffs, while the Vivofit 3's simple design and essential features cater to casual fitness enthusiasts who prefer an easy-to-use, cost-effective product.
Conclusion
Ultimately, the choice between Garmin Forerunner 235 and Garmin Vivofit 3 depends on your individual needs, preferences, and budget. The Forerunner 235 is ideal for those seeking advanced tracking and customization options, while the Vivofit 3 caters to individuals who prefer a straightforward, no-frills approach to fitness tracking. Both devices deliver the quality and reliability one can expect from Garmin, a reputable global leader in the fitness wearable industry.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Which device has better fitness tracking capabilities?
The Garmin Forerunner 235 offers more comprehensive fitness tracking capabilities with the addition of heart rate and oxygen monitoring, as well as GPS tracking.
2. Do both devices offer smartphone notifications?
Only the Garmin Forerunner 235 offers smartphone notifications such as emails, text messages, and phone functions.
3. Are both devices compatible with Windows Phone?
Only the Garmin Vivofit 3 is compatible with Windows Phone, while the Forerunner 235 supports Android and iOS smartphones.
4. Which device is more user-friendly?
While this ultimately depends on personal preferences, the Garmin Forerunner 235 offers a more intuitive user experience with its color display, touchscreen navigation, and wider range of apps and customization options through Connect IQ.
5. How do the batteries differ between the two devices?
The Garmin Forerunner 235 has a rechargeable battery that lasts up to 9 days, while the Vivofit 3 features a non-rechargeable battery with a lifespan of 1 year.
