Comparing Vivofit 4 and Forerunner 735XT
When it comes to selecting a fitness tracker or smartwatch, Garmin stands out as one of the most reliable and popular brands. This article provides a comprehensive comparison between two popular Garmin products: the Forerunner 735XT and the Vivofit 4. With different features, price points, and intended uses, understanding each watch’s functionalities is vital in determining which one is the best fit for your needs.
Choosing the right watch is essential for accurately tracking your physical activity and ensuring you get the most out of your workouts. To make an informed decision, it’s crucial to delve into the specifics of each device. In this article, we will closely examine the design, features, performance, user experience, pricing, and overall value of both the Forerunner 735XT and Vivofit 4.
Garmin has built a solid reputation over the years in the field of GPS technology, expanding into various wearable devices. With a focus on creating devices for athletes and fitness enthusiasts, the company has developed an extensive lineup of smartwatches and fitness trackers. So, let’s dive into the details and comparisons of the Forerunner 735XT and the Vivofit 4.
Design and Build
Garmin Forerunner 735XT
The Forerunner 735XT is designed for fitness enthusiasts, especially those focused on multisport-tracking capabilities. Its materials include a durable silicone strap, a fiber-reinforced polymer bezel, and a toughened glass lens. The watch weighs 40.2 grams and features a 1.23-inch, 215 x 180 resolution color display.
Garmin Vivofit 4
The Vivofit 4 is an entry-level fitness tracker perfect for those who want a simple and reliable device. With a slim design, it features a silicone strap, a polymer case, and a chemically strengthened glass lens. The weight of the device is not specified by Garmin. The Vivofit 4 has an 88 x 88 resolution color display, but the screen size remains unspecified.
Comparison of design and build quality
In comparing the two devices, the Forerunner 735XT is larger and features a higher-resolution color display, making it easier to read during physical activities. The Vivofit 4 offers a more minimalistic and inconspicuous design. Both watches have durable build materials and a water resistance rating of 5 ATM, suitable for swimming and showering. A key difference is in the weight, with the Forerunner 735XT being heavier due to its larger design.
Features and Functionality
Garmin Forerunner 735XT
The Forerunner 735XT runs on Garmin’s proprietary operating system and offers a wide range of features to cater to multisport athletes. These include GPS tracking, heart rate monitoring, running, cycling, and swimming tracking, as well as sleep and steps tracking. It also counts calories and provides phone notifications. Its battery life ranges from 14 hours in GPS mode to 11 days in watch mode.
Garmin Vivofit 4
The Vivofit 4 is designed to provide essential tracking features, like steps, distance, sleep, and calories tracking. It also has a swim tracking function, but lacks GPS, heart rate monitoring, and cycling tracking. The highlight of the Vivofit 4 is its impressive one-year battery life, thanks to its coin cell battery which doesn’t require recharging.
Comparison of features and performance
Comparing the two devices, it’s clear that the Forerunner 735XT caters to the needs of serious athletes with its extensive tracking features and GPS functionality. On the other hand, the Vivofit 4 is more focused on basic fitness tracking with an unmatched battery life. Both devices are compatible with Android and iOS smartphones, and provide Bluetooth connectivity, but the Forerunner 735XT offers additional phone functionalities like texts and emails.
User Interface and User Experience
Garmin Forerunner 735XT
The Forerunner 735XT comes with a color display, button navigation, customizable watch faces, and various downloadable apps through the Garmin Connect IQ platform. Its compatibility with smartphones allows seamless synchronization and additional features like music controls and weather updates.
Garmin Vivofit 4
Although it has a smaller, lower-resolution color display, the Vivofit 4 still provides an intuitive user interface, primarily through its touchscreen. It lacks an extensive app ecosystem, but it offers customizable watch faces and basic phone alerts for calls and texts when connected to a compatible smartphone.
Comparison of user interface and user experience
Both devices offer user-friendly interfaces, but the Forerunner 735XT stands out with its higher-resolution display, button navigation, and a more extensive library of apps and customization options. The Vivofit 4 is more basic and streamlined, focused mainly on its core fitness tracking functionalities.
Price and Value
Garmin Forerunner 735XT
With a price tag of $450, the Forerunner 735XT offers a wide range of features and functionalities tailored towards multisport athletes. Its build quality and feature set justify the higher price for those who need comprehensive tracking and smartwatch capabilities.
Garmin Vivofit 4
At just $79.95, the Vivofit 4 provides essential fitness tracking features alongside an impressive one-year battery life. Its affordable price makes it a great value option for those who need a basic tracker without breaking the bank.
Comparison of price and value
When comparing the two, the value of each device depends on the requirements and preferences of the user. The Forerunner 735XT is ideal for those who require advanced features and are willing to invest in a premium device. The Vivofit 4, on the other hand, is a more budget-friendly option suitable for users who need essential tracking options without additional frills.
Conclusion
Ultimately, the choice between the Garmin Forerunner 735XT and Vivofit 4 depends on the individual’s needs and preferences. The Forerunner 735XT is best suited for athletes who require advanced tracking and smartwatch features, while the Vivofit 4 is an excellent choice for those seeking basic fitness tracking and an extended battery life. Both devices have their strengths and cater to different users, so it’s essential to consider which option aligns best with your lifestyle and fitness goals.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the Garmin Forerunner 735XT suitable for beginners?
Yes, the Garmin Forerunner 735XT can be suitable for beginners who are looking for advanced tracking and smartwatch features. However, it comes at a higher price point and may be more than what a beginner needs.
Can I track my run outdoors with the Garmin Vivofit 4?
No, the Garmin Vivofit 4 lacks GPS functionality, which means it cannot track outdoor runs with location data. For outdoor run tracking, the Forerunner 735XT would be a better choice.
Is it worth upgrading from Vivofit 4 to Forerunner 735XT?
If you require advanced tracking features, GPS capabilities, and smartwatch functions, upgrading from the Vivofit 4 to the Forerunner 735XT could be worthwhile. However, consider your specific needs and budget before making a decision.
Do I need to recharge the battery for Garmin Vivofit 4?
No, the Garmin Vivofit 4 comes with a coin cell battery, which lasts for one year without needing to be recharged or replaced.
Are both the Garmin Forerunner 735XT and Vivofit 4 water-resistant?
Yes, both the Forerunner 735XT and Vivofit 4 have a water resistance rating of 5 ATM, making them suitable for swimming and showering, but not for diving, snorkeling, or high-speed water sports.
