Comparing VivoActive 4 and Vivoactive 3
Garmin Vivoactive 3 and the Garmin Vivoactive 4 are popular smartwatches that boast several features and functionalities to meet various fitness and lifestyle needs. Choosing the right smartwatch is crucial, as a device tailored to your specific requirements will help you make the most of your investment. Both Garmin devices have garnered strong reputations, with the brand itself having a long-standing history of producing high-quality, feature-rich wearables.
This article will delve into the design, features, user interface, price, and overall value of both the Vivoactive 3 and the Vivoactive 4. Our aim is to provide you with detailed information to help with your decision-making process.
Design and Build:
Garmin Vivoactive 3
The Vivoactive 3 sports a stainless steel bezel, reinforced chemically-strengthened glass, and a silicone strap. The watch weighs 43 grams and has a 1.2-inch display with a screen resolution of 240 x 240 pixels. The screen employs Memory-in-Pixel (MIP) technology that enhances readability in direct sunlight.
Garmin VivoActive 4
Similarly, the VivoActive 4 features a stainless steel bezel, reinforced chemically-strengthened glass, and a silicone strap. The device weighs 50.5 grams and has a slightly larger 1.3-inch display with a screen resolution of 260 x 260 pixels. It also flaunts MIP technology for enhanced visibility.
Comparison of design and build quality:
Both the Vivoactive 3 and the VivoActive 4 have several similarities in design, such as the stainless steel bezel, chemically-strengthened glass, and silicone strap. However, the VivoActive 4 is slightly heavier and has a marginally larger screen. Overall, the build quality of both watches remains impressive, and the choice boils down to personal preferences regarding size and weight.
Features and Functionality:
Garmin Vivoactive 3
The Vivoactive 3 doesn’t have a specific operating system but runs on Garmin’s proprietary software. It features a variety of sensors, including GPS, accelerometer, and barometer, and has a battery life of up to 7 days. The device includes fitness tracking capabilities such as calories burned, distance traveled, heart rate, sleep tracking, steps, and swimming metrics.
Garmin VivoActive 4
The VivoActive 4, on the other hand, runs on Wear OS, and also features several sensors such as GPS, accelerometer, and barometer. Its battery life extends to 8 days, and it shares many of the same fitness tracking features as the Vivoactive 3. However, the VivoActive 4 additionally incorporates Pulse Ox blood oxygen saturation tracking.
Comparison of features and performance:
Both devices present numerous similarities in terms of features and performance, including fitness tracking capabilities and their array of sensors. Although the VivoActive 4 houses extra features, such as blood oxygen saturation tracking and longer battery life, the choice ultimately depends on users' individual priorities.
User Interface and User Experience:
Garmin Vivoactive 3
The Vivoactive 3 offers a color touch display, user-friendly navigation, compatibility with Android and iOS smartphones, and supports various apps and customizations. The watch can also handle basic phone functionalities such as text messages and emails.
Garmin VivoActive 4
Similarly, the VivoActive 4 sports a color touch display, easy-to-use navigation, compatibility with both Android and iOS smartphones, and native support for numerous customizable apps. This smartwatch also handles basic phone functions such as calls, text messages, and emails.
Comparison of user interface and user experience:
In terms of user interface and user experience, the Vivoactive 3 and VivoActive 4 exhibit several resemblances, offering easy navigation and compatibility with a range of smartphones. Dispensing with the need to choose between them based on this criterion, users should consider other factors such as design, features, and cost.
Price and Value:
Garmin Vivoactive 3
With a price tag of $299, the Garmin Vivoactive 3 offers a wide range of features that represent good value for money.
Garmin VivoActive 4
At $349, the VivoActive 4 is slightly more expensive, but the additional features may justify the extra investment for some users.
Comparison of price and value:
Both the Vivoactive 3 and the VivoActive 4 provide good value for money, considering their respective features and performance. However, users must weigh the benefits of the additional features of the VivoActive 4 against the increased cost.
Conclusion:
When comparing the Garmin Vivoactive 3 and Garmin VivoActive 4, prospective buyers should consider factors such as design, features, user experience, and price. While both devices offer a host of excellent features and user-friendly interfaces, the final decision rests on individual preferences and priorities.
Frequently Asked Questions:
Does the Vivoactive 3 have blood oxygen saturation tracking?
No, the Vivoactive 3 does not include a Pulse Ox sensor for blood oxygen saturation tracking; this feature is available on the VivoActive 4.
Which device has a longer battery life?
The VivoActive 4 boasts a slightly longer battery life, lasting up to 8 days, compared to the 7-day battery life of the Vivoactive 3.
Is the Garmin Vivoactive 3 compatible with Windows Phone and Mac devices?
No, the Vivoactive 3 is only compatible with Android and iOS smartphones.
Which smartwatch has a bigger screen - the Vivoactive 3 or the VivoActive 4?
The VivoActive 4 has a marginally larger screen, measuring 1.3 inches, as opposed to the 1.2-inch display on the Vivoactive 3.
Can I make phone calls using the Garmin Vivoactive 3 or VivoActive 4?
Both the Vivoactive 3 and VivoActive 4 allow users to receive and manage phone calls, as well as send and receive text messages and emails.
