Comparing Forerunner 935 and Vivomove
The Garmin Forerunner 935 and Garmin Vivomove are two popular smartwatches designed to help users track and manage their fitness goals. Both are manufactured by Garmin, a company synonymous with high-quality, reliable products tailored for fitness enthusiasts and casual users alike. With numerous features for tracking various aspects of physical activity, choosing the right smartwatch is essential for individuals looking to improve or maintain their fitness levels.
Garmin has built an impressive reputation for pushing boundaries in wearable technology and producing some of the best smartwatches on the market. With a focus on innovation, quality, and durability, the company continues to create products that cater to the growing market of athletes and fitness enthusiasts.
This article will delve into the details of the Garmin Forerunner 935 and Garmin Vivomove, offering a comprehensive comparison of design, features, user experience, and value for money. By examining these factors closely, we aim to provide the reader with the necessary information to make an informed decision when choosing between these two popular smartwatches.
Design and Build
Garmin Forerunner 935
The Forerunner 935 is a sleek and lightweight fitness watch made with high-quality materials such as a fiber-reinforced polymer case and a silicone band for added comfort. The watch weighs in at an impressive 49 grams, making it lightweight and unobtrusive during workouts. The display is crisp and easily readable at 240 x 240 pixels, complemented by a 1.2-inch LCD color screen.
Garmin Vivomove
The Garmin Vivomove, on the other hand, boasts a more traditional watch design that incorporates fitness-tracking functionality. With a stainless-steel case and genuine leather or silicone bands, the Vivomove is a classically stylish option. This watch, however, does not feature a digital display or touchscreen capabilities. Instead, it employs an analog watch face with LED indicators to display fitness data such as steps taken and calories burned.
Comparison of design and build quality
Both the Forerunner 935 and Vivomove excel in their respective designs. Garmin Forerunner 935 is more focused on offering a sporty look with a compact, lightweight build, while the Vivomove is a stylish, traditional watch that discreetly incorporates fitness tracking functionalities. The choice between these two smartwatches ultimately depends on the user’s preference and primary use, whether it be for athletic activities or everyday wear.
Features and Functionality
Garmin Forerunner 935
The Forerunner 935 is packed with features and functionalities designed to help users monitor and improve their physical performance. Some key attributes include:
- Operating System: Garmin’s proprietary software
- Sensors: GPS, GLONASS, barometric altimeter, compass, gyroscope, accelerometer, thermometer, and heart rate monitor
- Battery Life: Up to 2 weeks in watch mode, up to 24 hours in GPS mode, and up to 50 hours in UltraTrac mode
- Fitness Tracking: Distance, steps, calories, heart rate, VO2 max, sleep, and numerous sport-specific activities
Garmin Vivomove
While not as feature-rich as the Forerunner 935, the Vivomove still offers useful fitness tracking capabilities like:
- Operating System: No display or touchscreen capabilities; uses LED indicators for data readout
- Sensors: Accelerometer for step tracking and activity detection
- Battery Life: Up to 1 year (replaceable battery)
- Fitness Tracking: Steps, calories, distance, and sleep
Comparison of features and performance
When comparing features and performance, the Garmin Forerunner 935 comes out ahead, offering a suite of advanced fitness tracking functionalities and sensor capabilities. However, for those who prefer a more traditional watch design with basic tracking features, the Vivomove is a suitable option. Users seeking a more comprehensive fitness tracking experience may find greater value in the Forerunner 935.
User Interface and User Experience
Garmin Forerunner 935
The Forerunner 935 offers an intuitive user interface with easy-to-navigate menus and customizable screens. Compatible with Android, iOS, and Windows Phone, this smartwatch allows users to receive notifications, download apps, and customize data fields according to preference.
Garmin Vivomove
Given its lack of a digital display or touchscreen, the Vivomove prioritizes simplicity and ease of use. Users can track their daily achievements with the LED indicators on the watch face. Additionally, the watch can be synced to a smartphone to access further data on the Garmin Connect app, which is compatible with Android and iOS devices.
Comparison of user interface and user experience
In terms of user interface and experience, the Forerunner 935 offers a more robust, customizable, and interactive user experience, while the Vivomove focuses on simplicity and ease of use. The choice between these devices hinges on the user’s desired level of interaction and customization options.
Price and Value
Garmin Forerunner 935
With a price tag of $500, the Forerunner 935 offers a wealth of features, making it a good value proposition for fitness enthusiasts seeking advanced fitness tracking capabilities and a sporty, lightweight design.
Garmin Vivomove
At a price of $250, the Vivomove provides a more affordable option for those seeking a more traditional watch design with basic fitness tracking features.
Comparison of price and value
While the Forerunner 935 offers more features, it also comes at a higher price point. Budget-conscious users who value a traditional watch design with essential fitness tracking features may prefer the Vivomove. However, those willing to invest in a more comprehensive fitness tracking experience will find the Forerunner 935 to be well worth the extra cost.
Conclusion
Ultimately, the choice between the Garmin Forerunner 935 and Garmin Vivomove will depend on user preferences, intended use, and budget. For those seeking a more advanced, feature-rich fitness tracking experience, the Forerunner 935 is the clear choice. Alternatively, the Vivomove is a suitable option for users who value a classic watch design with basic tracking capabilities. Both smartwatches boast the Garmin brand’s reputation for quality, reliability, and durability. The final decision rests with the individual user and their specific requirements and expectations from a fitness tracking device.
Frequently Asked Questions
How water-resistant are the Garmin Forerunner 935 and Garmin Vivomove?
Both the Forerunner 935 and the Vivomove are water-resistant up to 5 ATM, making them suitable for swimming, showering, and some water sports.
Can I receive smartphone notifications on the Garmin Forerunner 935?
Yes, the Garmin Forerunner 935 is compatible with Android, iOS, and Windows Phone devices and can display notifications for calls, texts, and emails.
Does the Garmin Vivomove track my heart rate?
No, the Garmin Vivomove does not have a built-in heart rate sensor.
Can I use the Garmin Forerunner 935 for tracking my cycling workouts?
Yes, the Garmin Forerunner 935 includes cycling tracking capabilities and can monitor distance, speed, and other metrics during your rides.
What is the battery life of the Garmin Vivomove?
The Garmin Vivomove has a battery life of up to 1 year, and the battery is replaceable.
