Comparing Vivoactive 3 and Vivomove
Garmin Vivoactive 3 and Garmin Vivomove are two popular smartwatches that cater to the needs of fitness enthusiasts and tech-savvy users alike. Designed and manufactured by Garmin, a brand known for its high-quality GPS products, these smartwatches have been able to carve a niche for themselves in the wearables market.
Choosing the right watch is essential, as it not only enhances one’s style quotient but also helps in tracking various aspects of personal health and fitness. To make an informed decision, understanding the overall brand reputation and history is vital, which in the case of Garmin has always stood synonymous with cutting-edge technology and precision engineering.
In this article, we will be discussing the design and build, features and functionality, user interface and user experience, price and value, and some frequently asked questions related to the Garmin Vivoactive 3 and the Garmin Vivomove.
Design and Build
Garmin Vivoactive 3
The Garmin Vivoactive 3 flaunts a circular watch face, surrounded by stainless steel bezels with a diameter of 1.2 inches. The watch body weighs 43 grams and uses Corning Gorilla Glass 3 as a protective layer for the crisp, sunlight-visible MIP (Memory-In-Pixel) screen with a resolution of 240 x 240. Notable aspects include:
- Materials Used: Polycarbonate, Stainless Steel, Gorilla Glass 3
- Size and Weight: 43.4 x 43.4 x 11.7 mm, 43 grams
- Screen: 1.2-inch Circular MIP Display, 240 x 240 resolution
Garmin Vivomove
The Garmin Vivomove, on the other hand, comes with a classier look similar to a traditional analog watch. The watch body is made of stainless steel and has a diameter of 1.7 inches. Instead of a digital touch display, it incorporates a small bottom display for tracking fitness stats. Key features include:
- Materials Used: Stainless Steel
- Size and Weight: 42 x 42 x 12 mm, 91 grams
- Screen: Analog watch face with a hidden OLED display
Comparison of design and build quality
Both watches showcase a stylish design, with the Vivoactive 3 being more sports-oriented and the Vivomove leaning towards elegance. The Vivomove is slightly heavier and larger, while the Vivoactive 3 offers a full-color touch display for better navigation and interaction with various features.
Features and Functionality
Garmin Vivoactive 3
The Vivoactive 3 comes with a plethora of features and is powered by the Garmin proprietary operating system. Its fitness tracking capabilities help in monitoring calories, distance, heart rate, sleep, steps, and swimming. The watch boasts a battery life of up to 7 days and can be recharged. It is compatible with both Android and iOS devices but lacks support for Windows and Mac devices. Some of the key features are:
- Operating System: Garmin Proprietary OS
- Sensors: GPS, Barometer, Compass, Accelerometer, Ambient Light Sensor, Thermometer, Heart Rate Monitor
- Battery Life: Up to 7 days
- Rechargeable: Yes
Garmin Vivomove
The Vivomove, while being a more classically styled watch, is still a fitness tracker at heart. It monitors calories, distance, sleep, and steps taken. It lasts for up to 1 year on a standard watch battery, meaning no recharging is required during that time. It is also compatible with both Android and iOS smartphones. Some of the primary features include:
- Operating System: NA
- Sensors: Accelerometer
- Battery Life: Up to 1 year
- Rechargeable: No
Comparison of features and performance
In terms of features, the Garmin Vivoactive 3 undoubtedly stands out as it has more comprehensive functionality when compared to the Garmin Vivomove. On the other hand, Vivomove focuses on the aspect of simplicity, catering to individuals who seek a more traditional look but with basic fitness tracking abilities.
User Interface and User Experience
Garmin Vivoactive 3
The Vivoactive 3 offers a visually-appealing interface that allows users to navigate through their stats and monitor their fitness data efficiently. With the support of downloadable apps and customizable widgets, the watch enables easy compatibility with Android and iOS smartphones. Key aspects include:
- Display: 1.2-inch MIP Display, 240 x 240 resolution
- Navigation: Touchscreen
- Apps and Customization: Garmin Connect IQ Store, customizable widgets and watch faces
- Smartphone Compatibility: Android and iOS
Garmin Vivomove
The Vivomove, on the other hand, simplifies user experience by employing a traditional analog watch face with a hidden OLED display for activity tracking. Users can sync data with their Android or iOS smartphones and access the Garmin Connect app to analyze their data. Here are its primary features:
- Display: Analog watch face with hidden OLED display
- Navigation: Physical watch hands/register
- Apps and Customization: NA
- Smartphone Compatibility: Android and iOS
Comparison of user interface and user experience
While the Vivoactive 3 offers a more interactive and visually rich user experience, the Vivomove strives to blend tradition with technology without complicating user experience. The choice ultimately depends on individual user requirements and preferences.
Price and Value
Garmin Vivoactive 3
The Garmin Vivoactive 3, priced at $299, offers a versatile package with superior tracking capabilities and feature-rich user experience, making it a great value for many users.
Garmin Vivomove
With a price tag of $250, the Garmin Vivomove offers a more refined look while focusing on basic fitness tracking attributes. This watch is perfect for users who prefer simplicity and classic design over functionality.
Comparison of price and value
Although the Vivoactive 3 is slightly more expensive, its range of features and capabilities justifies the extra cost. However, for those seeking a less complicated, elegant timepiece, the Vivomove stands out as a classic option.
Conclusion
Considering the specifications, features, and user experiences, the Garmin Vivoactive 3 and Garmin Vivomove cater to different user preferences. The Vivoactive 3 is an ideal choice for sports enthusiasts and tech-savvy users seeking comprehensive fitness tracking features. The Vivomove, on the other hand, is an elegant, simplistic alternative for those who prefer traditional-style watches with essential fitness tracking abilities.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the Garmin Vivoactive 3 suitable for swimming?
Yes, the Garmin Vivoactive 3 is capable of tracking swimming activities and is water-resistant up to 5 ATM (50 meters).
Does the Garmin Vivomove have heart rate tracking?
No, the Garmin Vivomove does not offer heart rate tracking.
Can I receive notifications on the Garmin Vivoactive 3?
Yes, the Garmin Vivoactive 3 allows you to receive notifications for calls, texts, and emails when connected to your smartphone.
Do I need to recharge the Garmin Vivomove?
No, the Garmin Vivomove runs on a standard watch battery and lasts up to 1 year without requiring a recharge.
Is the Garmin Vivoactive 3 compatible with third-party fitness apps?
Yes, the Garmin Vivoactive 3 supports popular third-party fitness apps such as Strava, Endomondo, and MyFitnessPal through the Garmin Connect platform.
