Garmin Forerunner 45 vs. Garmin Vivomove

 
Forerunner 45
Vivomove
 GarminForerunner 45Buy NowGarminVivomoveBuy Now

Basic Info

Suggested Price$199$250
Release20192016

Activity & Fitness

Calories
Cycling (Bicycling)
Distance
Heart
Oxygen
Sleep
Steps
Swim

Battery

Duration7 days1 year
Rechargeable

Compatibility

Android
iOS
Windows Phonen/a
Macn/a
Windowsn/a

Connectivity

Bluetoothn/a
Cellular
GPS
NFC
Wi-Fi

Display

Colorn/a
Resolution208 x 208n/a
Size1.04 inchesn/a
Touchn/a
TypeLCDn/a

Functions

Audio Speaker
Clock
Phonen/a
Vibrationn/a
Voice

Hardware

Accelerometer
Barometer or Altimeter
Ultraviolet Sensor
Water Resistance5 ATM5 ATM

Notifications

Phonen/a
Emailsn/a
Textsn/a

Software

Operating SystemBuilt-inn/a
Apps
Music

Comparing Vivomove and Forerunner 45

When it comes to fitness trackers and smartwatches, the Garmin Forerunner 45 and Garmin Vivomove are both popular options with unique features suited for different users. Choosing the right watch is essential, considering factors such as design, functionality, and price.

Garmin, the brand behind these devices, has a strong reputation for producing high-quality, reliable products. Established in 1989, the company specializes in GPS technology and wearables to help users monitor their health, fitness, and daily activities.

This article will dive deep into the comparison of Garmin’s Forerunner 45 and Vivomove, discussing design, build quality, features, user experience, pricing, and more to help you make an informed decision.

Design and Build

Garmin Forerunner 45

The Garmin Forerunner 45 is designed with the following details:

  • Materials: fiber-reinforced polymer case with a silicone strap
  • Size and weight: 42mm, 36g
  • Display: 1.04 inches, 208 x 208 pixels LCD with a color display

Garmin Vivomove

On the other hand, the Garmin Vivomove showcases these aspects:

  • Materials: stainless steel case with a leather or silicone strap
  • Size and weight: 42mm, 67g or 39mm, 56.5g
  • Display: watch face with hidden LED screen (no color display or touch)

Comparison of design and build quality

While both devices are made with durable materials, the Forerunner 45 has a sporty look due to its polymer case and silicone strap, whereas the Vivomove offers a more elegant appearance with its stainless steel case and optional leather strap. The Forerunner 45 also has a color LCD display, while the Vivomove takes a more minimalist approach with its traditional watch face and hidden LED screen.

Features and Functionality

Garmin Forerunner 45

The Garmin Forerunner 45 includes the following features:

  • Operating system: built-in
  • Sensors: GPS, accelerometer, barometer, heart rate monitor
  • Battery life: 7 days (rechargeable)
  • Fitness tracking: calories, distance, steps, heart rate, sleep, cycling, and swim tracking
  • Connectivity: Bluetooth, Wi-Fi

Garmin Vivomove

The Garmin Vivomove comes with these functionalities:

  • Sensors: accelerometer
  • Battery life: 1 year (non-rechargeable)
  • Fitness tracking: calories, distance, steps, sleep tracking
  • Connectivity: Compatible with Android and iOS devices

Comparison of features and performance

In terms of features and performance, the Forerunner 45 undoubtedly offers more in the way of sensors, fitness tracking options, GPS, and smart connectivity. Its rechargeable battery ensures long-term use. The Vivomove possesses a longer battery life but lacks the rechargeable feature, GPS, and some fitness tracking capabilities like heart rate and swim monitoring.

User Interface and User Experience

Garmin Forerunner 45

The user interface and experience of the Forerunner 45 are defined by:

  • Display: color LCD
  • Navigation: touchscreen and physical buttons
  • Apps and customization: available with the built-in operating system
  • Compatibility: Android, iOS

Garmin Vivomove

The Vivomove, on the other hand, offers:

  • Display: hidden LED screen
  • Navigation: physical buttons only
  • Compatibility: Android, iOS

Comparison of user interface and user experience

The Forerunner 45 provides a more comprehensive user experience thanks to its touchscreen capabilities, color display, and built-in apps. The Vivomove maintains a simplistic, minimal approach focusing on essential functionalities such as fitness tracking and smartphone compatibility.

Price and Value

Garmin Forerunner 45

With a price tag of $199, the Garmin Forerunner 45 offers a wide range of features and performance capabilities that suit its value. Its rechargeable battery ensures long-term usability, while its fitness tracking options make it more versatile.

Garmin Vivomove

Priced at $250, the Garmin Vivomove prioritizes style and design, offering a sleek appearance but with fewer features than the Forerunner 45. Its non-rechargeable battery lasts up to a year but will require replacement in the long run.

Comparison of price and value

When comparing price and value, the Forerunner 45 offers more for your money, given its broader range of features, rechargeable battery, and robust performance. However, the Vivomove appeals to users who prefer a minimalist design and require only basic fitness tracking capabilities.

Conclusion

Ultimately, the choice between the Garmin Forerunner 45 and Vivomove depends on individual preferences and priorities. The Forerunner 45 provides more features and possibilities for fitness enthusiasts, while the Vivomove emphasizes style and design for users seeking a more traditional look. Consider your specific needs and preferences to find the best-suited option for you.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the Garmin Forerunner 45 waterproof?

Yes, the Forerunner 45 is water-resistant up to 5 ATM, making it suitable for activities such as swimming and showering.

Can I track my cycling activities with the Garmin Vivomove?

No, the Garmin Vivomove does not have a dedicated cycling tracking feature. However, it does track steps, distance, calories, and sleep.

Can I control my music using the Garmin Forerunner 45?

Yes, the Garmin Forerunner 45 allows you to control music playback on your paired smartphone.

Which Garmin device is better for runners: Forerunner 45 or Vivomove?

For runners, the Forerunner 45 is a better choice due to its GPS, heart rate tracking, and more advanced fitness tracking features.

Can I receive notifications on the Garmin Vivomove?

The Garmin Vivomove is compatible with Android and iOS devices, allowing you to receive notifications when paired with your smartphone. However, its hidden LED display provides limited information compared to the Forerunner 45's color LCD.

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