Comparing Forerunner 45 and Vivosmart HR
The Garmin Forerunner 45 and Garmin Vivosmart HR are two popular fitness tracking devices. Choosing the right watch is essential for users who want to track their activities accurately and make the most of their workouts.
Garmin, a reputable brand in the fitness world, is known for consistently delivering high-quality products. With a history dating back to 1989, Garmin has become a popular choice for those looking for reliable and stylish fitness trackers and smartwatches.
This article will provide an in-depth comparison of the Garmin Forerunner 45 and Garmin Vivosmart HR, discussing their design, features, user interface, and value for money.
Design and Build
Garmin Forerunner 45
The Garmin Forerunner 45 has an attractive design with a round face and a 1.04-inch color LCD. The watch is lightweight, weighing only 36 grams, and features a water resistance of 5 ATM. Materials used in its construction include a sturdy plastic housing and a soft silicone strap.
Garmin Vivosmart HR
On the other hand, the Garmin Vivosmart HR features a rectangular design with a 1.08-inch monochrome display. The device weighs 29.6 grams and offers a 5 ATM water resistance rating. It is built with a durable polymer casing and a silicone strap for added comfort.
Comparison of design and build quality
Both the Forerunner 45 and Vivosmart HR are lightweight and water-resistant, making them suitable for various activities. However, the Forerunner 45 has a more vibrant color display, while the Vivosmart HR has a larger screen area with a monochrome display. Ultimately, the choice between these two designs comes down to personal preference.
Features and Functionality
Garmin Forerunner 45
The Garmin Forerunner 45 operates on a built-in system and boasts several features, such as GPS tracking, steps, distance, and calorie tracking, sleep monitoring, and heart rate tracking. The device has an accelerometer, barometer, and a 7-day battery life.
Garmin Vivosmart HR
The Garmin Vivosmart HR doesn’t have a specific operating system but includes features like steps, distance, and calorie tracking, sleep monitoring, and heart rate tracking. The Vivosmart HR has an accelerometer and a 5-day battery life. However, it lacks GPS and cycling tracking capabilities.
Comparison of features and performance
While both devices offer standard fitness tracking features, the Garmin Forerunner 45 has some noticeable advantages, such as GPS tracking and a longer battery life. The lack of GPS and cycling tracking in the Vivosmart HR might be a deal-breaker for some users looking to track more advanced workouts.
User Interface and User Experience
Garmin Forerunner 45
Users can navigate the Forerunner 45's color display using physical buttons. The device supports apps and customization, and is compatible with Android and iOS smartphones, allowing for seamless integration.
Garmin Vivosmart HR
The Vivosmart HR has a basic interface navigated through a touchscreen. The device is compatible with Android and iOS smartphones and supports features like phone notifications, texts, and emails. However, it doesn’t support apps or customization.
Comparison of user interface and user experience
The user experience of the Forerunner 45 and Vivosmart HR is mostly comparable, with differences in their display types and navigation. The Forerunner 45 offers a more comprehensive user experience due to its app support and customization options.
Price and Value
Garmin Forerunner 45
With an average price of $199, the Garmin Forerunner 45 offers great value for money considering its features and capabilities.
Garmin Vivosmart HR
The Garmin Vivosmart HR is available for approximately $170, which may be more appealing to budget-conscious consumers.
Comparison of price and value
Given the additional features provided by the Garmin Forerunner 45, the slightly higher price tag may be justified for those looking for a more feature-rich device. However, the Vivosmart HR offers a more affordable alternative for those primarily focused on basic fitness tracking.
Conclusion
Ultimately, deciding between the Garmin Forerunner 45 and Vivosmart HR comes down to specific individual needs and preferences. The Forerunner 45 is a more versatile option with a greater number of features and longer battery life, making it ideal for users seeking advanced tracking capabilities. On the other hand, the Vivosmart HR serves as a budget-friendly option for those interested in tracking essential fitness data without additional complexities.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the Garmin Forerunner 45 suitable for swimming?
Yes, the Garmin Forerunner 45 has a water resistance rating of 5 ATM, making it suitable for swimming and water-based activities.
Can you use the heart rate tracking feature while swimming with the Garmin Vivosmart HR?
Although the Garmin Vivosmart HR is water-resistant and can be worn while swimming, the accuracy of the heart rate tracking feature during water-based activities might not be as reliable.
Can you personalize the watch face on the Garmin Forerunner 45?
Yes, the Garmin Forerunner 45 allows for watch face customization through the Garmin Connect app.
Does the Garmin Vivosmart HR have GPS tracking capabilities?
No, the Garmin Vivosmart HR does not have built-in GPS tracking capabilities.
How do you charge the Garmin Forerunner 45 and Garmin Vivosmart HR?
Both devices come with proprietary charging cables that connect to USB ports, allowing for convenient recharging.
