Comparing Vivofit 4 and Forerunner 235
When it comes to fitness wearables, Garmin is one of the top contenders in the market. With the Garmin Forerunner 235 and Vivofit 4, the brand offers unique features suitable for different needs. Picking the right fitness tracker or smartwatch depends on what you value most in a wearable, whether its design, functionality, or price.
Garmin is a reputable brand, known for its high-quality GPS technology and reliable wearables for athletes and fitness enthusiasts. Established in 1989, the company has a long history of innovation and leadership in the market, giving consumers confidence in the performance and durability of their products.
In this comparison, we will analyze various aspects of the Forerunner 235 and Vivofit 4, such as design, features, user interface, price, and value, to help you make an informed decision based on your needs and preferences.
Design and Build
Garmin Forerunner 235
The Forerunner 235 is designed for runners, featuring a lightweight build and comfortable silicone strap. It has a 1.23-inch color MIP display with a resolution of 215 x 180 pixels, offering good visibility in various lighting conditions. Its dimensions are 45 x 45 x 11.7 mm, and it weighs 42 grams.
Garmin Vivofit 4
Vivofit 4 is a fitness tracker designed for everyday use, with an 88 x 88-pixel color display that is simple and easy to read. The band is made of a smooth, durable material that makes it comfortable to wear for long periods. The Vivofit 4's exact screen size and dimensions are not available, but it is designed to be compact and lightweight.
Comparison of design and build quality
While both devices are lightweight and comfortable, the Forerunner 235 offers a larger, higher-resolution display for better visibility during workouts. The Vivofit 4, on the other hand, is more minimalistic and discreet, making it ideal for casual wear. Both devices have a 5 ATM water resistance rating, making them suitable for activities like swimming and showering, but not for high-pressure water activities such as diving.
Features and Functionality
Garmin Forerunner 235
The Forerunner 235 runs on a proprietary operating system and offers various features, including GPS, heart rate monitoring, sleep tracking, and advanced running metrics. Its battery can last up to 9 days on a single charge, and it is compatible with Android and iOS smartphones, enabling notifications and music control. Some of its main features include:
- Calories, distance, and steps tracking
- Heart rate, oxygen, and sleep monitoring
- Cycling and swim tracking
- Smartphone notifications and music control
Garmin Vivofit 4
Unlike the Forerunner 235, the Vivofit 4 does not have a built-in GPS, heart rate monitor, or smartphone notifications. It does, however, track steps, sleep, calories, and distance, along with basic swim tracking. With a remarkable 1-year battery life, you won’t need to recharge this device, as it uses a replaceable coin cell battery. It is also compatible with Android and iOS smartphones. Some of the key features of Vivofit 4 include:
- Calories, distance, and steps tracking
- Sleep and swim tracking
Comparison of features and performance
The Garmin Forerunner 235 is packed with more advanced features like GPS, heart rate monitoring, and smartphone notifications, catering to serious athletes and runners. The Vivofit 4, being a budget-friendly option, focuses more on basic fitness tracking and maintenance-free usage with its long-lasting battery. Choosing between the two ultimately depends on individual preferences and the level of sophistication required in training.
User Interface and User Experience
Garmin Forerunner 235
With a color display and touch-screen interface, the Forerunner 235 offers easy navigation and customization through the Garmin Connect app. Its compatibility with Android and iOS smartphones ensures seamless integration and access to important notifications.
Garmin Vivofit 4
The Vivofit 4, although lacking smartphone notifications and a touch-screen display, maintains a user-friendly interface with clear and straightforward navigation. It connects to Android and iOS smartphones via Garmin Connect, providing access to additional features and customizations.
Comparison of user interface and user experience
The Forerunner 235 provides a more interactive experience with its touch screen and smartphone notification features, making it suitable for those who desire easy access to their device’s functions. The Vivofit 4, on the other hand, offers a simpler and more direct interface, focusing on essential tracking without additional complications.
Price and Value
Garmin Forerunner 235
With a price tag of $299.99, the Forerunner 235 offers a range of advanced features and a more sophisticated design, making it a good investment for serious athletes and fitness enthusiasts who require extensive tracking and performance analysis.
Garmin Vivofit 4
At just $79.95, the Vivofit 4 is a budget-friendly option for those seeking basic fitness tracking and a convenient user experience without the need for constant recharging.
Comparison of price and value
The Forerunner 235 delivers a higher level of functionality and performance, justifying its higher price tag. The Vivofit 4, on the other hand, is a more affordable option for casual users who prioritize battery life and simplicity. Consider your needs and preferences when choosing between these two diverse offerings from Garmin.
Conclusion
Ultimately, the choice between the Garmin Forerunner 235 and Vivofit 4 depends on individual preferences, fitness goals, and budgets. The Forerunner 235 is better suited for athletes looking for advanced tracking features and a more engaging user experience, while the Vivofit 4 is perfect for the casual user who wants dependable fitness tracking and unparalleled battery life.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which device is better for runners?
The Garmin Forerunner 235 is more suitable for runners, thanks to its GPS, heart rate monitoring, and advanced running metrics.
Can I swim with both devices?
Yes, both the Forerunner 235 and Vivofit 4 have a 5 ATM water resistance rating, suitable for swimming and showering, but not for high-pressure water activities like diving.
Which device has a longer battery life?
The Vivofit 4 has a significantly longer battery life of up to 1 year, while the Forerunner 235 lasts up to 9 days on a single charge.
Can I receive notifications from my smartphone on both devices?
The Forerunner 235 can display smartphone notifications, while the Vivofit 4 does not have this feature.
Do both devices work with Android and iOS smartphones?
Yes, both the Garmin Forerunner 235 and Vivofit 4 are compatible with Android and iOS smartphones through the Garmin Connect app.
