Comparing Vivosmart 4 and Forerunner 235
The Garmin Forerunner 235 and Garmin Vivosmart 4 are two popular wearable devices that cater to different segments of the fitness enthusiast market. With the ever-growing importance of physical fitness and healthy lifestyles, choosing the right watch can be vital in helping individuals track their progress and achieve their fitness goals.
Garmin is a well-respected brand with a long-standing history of producing quality GPS products and sports watches. Known for their innovation, reliability, and dedicated customer support, the company has become a frontrunner in the industry of fitness trackers.
This guide will provide an in-depth comparison of the Garmin Forerunner 235 and the Garmin Vivosmart 4, analyzing their design and build, features and functionalities, user interfaces, and value for money. We will also touch upon frequently asked questions to help you make an informed decision based on your needs and preferences.
Design and Build
Garmin Forerunner 235
- Materials used: Silicone strap, plastic case, chemically strengthened glass screen
- Size and weight: 45 x 45 x 11.7 mm, 42g
- Display/screen information: 1.23 inches, 215 x 180 pixels, MIP color touchscreen
Garmin Vivosmart 4
- Materials used: Silicone strap, plastic case, OLED touchscreen
- Size and weight: 15 x 10.5 x 197mm, 20.4g
- Display/screen information: 0.74 inches, 48 x 128 pixels, OLED black and white touchscreen
Comparison of design and build quality
The Forerunner 235 is a sports watch with a more robust form factor compared to the sleek and slim design of the Vivosmart 4. Both devices are made from similar materials, such as the silicone strap and a plastic case, but the Forerunner 235 has a chemically strengthened glass screen, while the Vivosmart 4 utilizes an OLED screen. In terms of size and weight, the Forerunner 235 is larger and heavier, which offers more screen real estate for a richer display of information. The Vivosmart 4, on the other hand, is lightweight and more discreet.
Features and Functionality
Garmin Forerunner 235
- Operating System: Garmin Connect
- Sensors: GPS, heart rate monitor, accelerometer, gyroscope
- Battery life: Up to 9 days
- Fitness tracking: Calories, cycling, distance, heart rate, oxygen, sleep, steps, swimming
Garmin Vivosmart 4
- Operating System: Garmin Connect
- Sensors: Heart rate monitor, accelerometer, barometer
- Battery life: Up to 7 days
- Fitness tracking: Calories, distance, heart rate, oxygen, sleep, steps, swimming
Comparison of features and performance
Both the Forerunner 235 and Vivosmart 4 run on Garmin Connect and offer similar fitness tracking features, including heart rate, sleep, oxygen levels, and swimming capabilities. However, the Forerunner 235 stands out with its integrated GPS sensor for more accurate distance tracking and additional support for cycling. The battery life of the Forerunner 235 is also slightly better at 9 days, compared to the 7-day battery life of the Vivosmart 4. The presence of a barometer in the Vivosmart 4 does set it apart, allowing for altitude and weather-related tracking.
User Interface and User Experience
Garmin Forerunner 235
- Display: 1.23-inch color touchscreen
- Navigation: Touchscreen and physical buttons
- Apps and customization: Connect IQ Store
- Compatibility: Android and iOS
Garmin Vivosmart 4
- Display: 0.74-inch OLED black and white touchscreen
- Navigation: Touchscreen
- Apps and customization: Garmin Connect Mobile app
- Compatibility: Android and iOS
Comparison of user interface and user experience
The Forerunner 235 provides a richer user experience with its larger color touchscreen, physical buttons for easy navigation, and compatibility with the Connect IQ Store for additional customization. The Vivosmart 4, though offering a more minimalistic OLED display, offers a simplified, touch-only interface for easy on-the-go operation. Both devices are compatible with Android and iOS smartphones for seamless syncing and data sharing.
Price and Value
Garmin Forerunner 235
Price: $299.99
Garmin Vivosmart 4
Price: $130
Comparison of price and value
Considering the additional features and capabilities of the Forerunner 235, such as its GPS functionality and more comprehensive display, its higher price point of $299.99 can be justified. The Vivosmart 4, priced at $130, offers a more budget-friendly option for those who prioritize attractive design and basic fitness tracking at a lower cost.
Conclusion
Ultimately, the choice between the Garmin Forerunner 235 and the Garmin Vivosmart 4 will depend on your individual preferences and fitness goals. The Forerunner 235 offers a more versatile and feature-rich experience, while the Vivosmart 4 provides a sleek and stylish design with essential fitness tracking capabilities. Each device has its own set of pros and cons, but both are reliable choices within the Garmin family of wearables.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the Garmin Forerunner 235 suitable for runners?
Yes, the Garmin Forerunner 235 is specifically designed for runners, with its built-in GPS function and additional features catering to runners' needs for tracking distance, pace, and routes.
Does the Garmin Vivosmart 4 have music controls?
Yes, the Garmin Vivosmart 4 allows you to control your music playback on your connected smartphone directly from the device.
Can the Garmin Forerunner 235 receive notifications?
Yes, when connected to a compatible smartphone, the Garmin Forerunner 235 can receive notifications, such as calls, texts, and emails.
Is swimming tracking available on both devices?
Yes, both the Forerunner 235 and Vivosmart 4 offer swimming tracking capabilities and have a water resistance rating of 5 ATM.
Which device has better battery life?
The Garmin Forerunner 235 has a slightly better battery life, lasting up to 9 days, while the Garmin Vivosmart 4 lasts up to 7 days on a single charge.
