Comparing Vivosmart 4 and Vivoactive HR
The Garmin Vivoactive HR and Vivosmart 4 are two popular wearables designed to help you track your health and fitness journey. They each offer unique features and capabilities, making it essential to choose the right one based on your individual needs and preferences. Garmin, a well-known brand in the industry, has earned a solid reputation for producing high-quality, reliable wearable devices. This comprehensive comparison will provide you with all the details needed to make an informed decision.
Choosing the right wearable device is crucial because it can help you achieve your fitness goals while also acting as a convenient tool to keep you connected throughout the day. This article will delve deep into the design, features, and value of these two devices to give you a better understanding of which one is best for you.
Design and Build
Garmin Vivoactive HR
Materials: Polycarbonate case with silicone strap Size: 1.19 x 2.24 x 0.45 inches Weight: 47.6 grams Display/Screen: 1.38-inch color touchscreen display with 148 x 205-pixel resolution
Garmin Vivosmart 4
Materials: Metal case with silicone strap Size: 0.74 x 0.37 x 9 inches Weight: 20.4 grams Display/Screen: 0.74-inch monochrome OLED touchscreen display with 48 x 128-pixel resolution
Comparison of design and build quality
The Vivoactive HR boasts a larger and more robust build compared to the sleek Vivosmart 4. In terms of materials, the former features a polycarbonate case while the latter has a metal one, making the Vivosmart 4 more sophisticated in appearance. The screen size and resolution are also distinct, with the Vivoactive HR sporting a more vibrant color display. Despite their differences, both devices are water-resistant up to 5 ATM and offer comfortable silicone straps for everyday wear.
Features and Functionality
Garmin Vivoactive HR
- Operating System: Proprietary
- Sensors: GPS, GLONASS, heart rate monitor, accelerometer, barometric altimeter
- Battery life: 8 days in watch/activity tracking mode; 13 hours in GPS mode
- Fitness tracking: Sleep, steps, calories, distance, heart rate, swimming, cycling
- Additional features: Smart notifications, music controls
Garmin Vivosmart 4
- Operating System: Proprietary
- Sensors: Heart rate monitor, accelerometer, barometric altimeter, Pulse Ox sensor
- Battery life: Up to 7 days
- Fitness tracking: Sleep, steps, calories, distance, heart rate, swimming
- Additional features: Stress tracking, relaxation breathing timer, VO2 max estimation, Body Battery energy monitoring
Comparison of features and performance
While both devices offer plenty of fitness tracking capabilities, the Vivoactive HR stands out with its GPS and GLONASS support, cycling tracking, and smartwatch-like features like music controls. On the other hand, the Vivosmart 4 stands out with unique features such as stress tracking, relaxation breathing timer, VO2 max estimation, and Body Battery energy monitoring. Battery life is also a key differentiator, with the Vivoactive HR lasting longer, especially in GPS mode.
User Interface and User Experience
Garmin Vivoactive HR
- Display: Color touchscreen
- Navigation: Swipe and tap
- Apps and customization: Garmin Connect, Connect IQ
- Compatibility: Android, iOS, Windows Phone
Garmin Vivosmart 4
- Display: Monochrome OLED touchscreen
- Navigation: Swipe and tap
- Apps and customization: Garmin Connect
- Compatibility: Android, iOS
Comparison of user interface and user experience
The user interface and experience of these two wearables differ mainly due to the displays. The Vivoactive HR’s larger color display allows for easier navigation and a more engaging user experience. In terms of compatibility, the Vivoactive HR supports more platforms, including Windows Phone, while the Vivosmart 4 is limited to Android and iOS. Both devices can be customized through Garmin Connect, but the Vivoactive HR also benefits from Connect IQ for additional apps and watch faces.
Price and Value
Garmin Vivoactive HR
Cost: $250 Value for money: Offers more smartwatch-like features, including GPS, at a higher price.
Garmin Vivosmart 4
Cost: $130 Value for money: More affordable option with unique health features not found in the Vivoactive HR.
Comparison of price and value
While the Vivoactive HR has a higher price tag, it offers additional smartwatch features and a more extensive fitness tracking suite. The Vivosmart 4 is a more budget-friendly alternative with unique health monitoring features. Ultimately, the choice between the two depends on your personal needs and preferences, as well as your budget.
Conclusion
Both the Garmin Vivoactive HR and Vivosmart 4 are capable fitness trackers with distinct attributes. The Vivoactive HR is better suited for those who desire a more robust, feature-rich experience with GPS and smartwatch-like capabilities. Conversely, the Vivosmart 4 provides a sleek, more affordable option with unique health monitoring features. When making your decision, consider your individual needs and preferences, as well as your budget, in order to find the perfect device for you.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the key differences between the Vivoactive HR and Vivosmart 4?
The main differences between the devices include the Vivoactive HR’s GPS support, color display, and additional smartwatch features, whereas the Vivosmart 4 offers unique health monitoring features and a more affordable price.
Are both devices suitable for swimming?
Yes, both the Vivoactive HR and Vivosmart 4 are water-resistant up to 5 ATM and can track swimming metrics.
What platforms are the devices compatible with?
The Vivoactive HR is compatible with Android, iOS, and Windows phones, while the Vivosmart 4 is compatible with Android and iOS only.
Which device has better battery life?
The Garmin Vivoactive HR has a longer battery life, lasting up to 8 days in watch/activity tracking mode and 13 hours in GPS mode. The Vivosmart 4 has a battery life of up to 7 days.
Do either of the devices track cycling?
The Garmin Vivoactive HR can track cycling, but the Vivosmart 4 does not have this feature.
