Comparing Vivosmart 4 and Vivofit 4
Today, we’re comparing two popular fitness trackers from Garmin, the Vivofit 4 and the Vivosmart 4. These devices were both released in 2018 and are designed to be worn around the clock to track various fitness and wellness metrics. Choosing the right device for your needs can make a significant difference in achieving your health and fitness goals.
Garmin is known for its high-quality wearables, backed by a strong reputation of continuous innovation and technical expertise in the market. The company has been producing wearables since 1990, catering to a variety of needs, from basic fitness tracking to advanced athletic performance monitoring.
In this article, we’ll delve into various aspects of the Vivofit 4 and the Vivosmart 4, comparing their design, features, user interface, price, and value for money. Our goal is to provide helpful insights to help you make an informed decision on which device suits you best.
Design and Build
Garmin Vivofit 4
The Vivofit 4 sports a sleek yet durable design, made from a combination of silicone and plastic materials. It has a compact size and lightweight build, making it comfortable to wear all day. The screen is a color display with a resolution of 88 x 88 pixels, allowing for crisp and clear visuals.
Garmin Vivosmart 4
On the other hand, the Vivosmart 4 boasts a slim and stylish design made from durable materials such as silicone and aluminum. The screen is an OLED display with a resolution of 48 x 128 pixels, offering a sharper and brighter view than the Vivofit 4. Its 0.74-inch screen size is slightly smaller than its counterpart but still provides adequate readability.
Comparison of design and build quality
Both devices share similarities in their sleek and lightweight designs, as well as their use of durable materials. However, there are a few noteworthy differences. The Vivofit 4's color display offers a more vibrant look, while the Vivosmart 4's OLED screen provides sharper resolution and brightness. The choice between the two depends on personal preferences and priorities in terms of aesthetics and comfort.
Features and Functionality
Garmin Vivofit 4
The Vivofit 4 runs on a non-rechargeable battery, which lasts for an impressive one year. Its features include distance, steps, calories, and sleep tracking, as well as heart rate monitoring through an external device. The device is also capable of swim tracking and has a water resistance rating of 5 ATM. With its basic features, it serves as a suitable choice for casual fitness enthusiasts.
Garmin Vivosmart 4
With a rechargeable battery lasting up to 7 days, the Vivosmart 4 offers a suite of advanced features, making it ideal for those seeking more comprehensive fitness tracking. In addition to distance, steps, calories, sleep, and swim tracking, it also measures heart rate and oxygen levels directly on the device. Its 5 ATM water resistance and additional sensors such as a barometer make it even more versatile.
Comparison of features and performance
Although both devices offer a range of fitness tracking features, the Vivosmart 4 stands out with its built-in heart rate and oxygen monitoring capabilities. This makes it a better option for people who require in-depth tracking and analysis of their wellness data. On the other hand, the Vivofit 4, with its focus on essential fitness tracking and longer battery life, will appeal to casual users who prefer minimal fuss and maintenance.
User Interface and User Experience
Garmin Vivofit 4
The Vivofit 4's display and simple navigation allow for an intuitive user experience. However, advanced customization and app options may be limited due to the lack of a built-in operating system. Despite this, the device is compatible with both Android and iOS smartphones, enabling essential syncing and data sharing functionalities.
Garmin Vivosmart 4
Featuring a similar simplicity in navigation, the Vivosmart 4 offers more enhanced customization options, including notification management for calls, texts, and emails. Its compatibility with Android and iOS smartphones ensures seamless communication between the device and your mobile phone.
Comparison of user interface and user experience
Both devices boast user-friendly interfaces with easy navigation systems. However, the Vivosmart 4 provides added value with its notification management system for phone calls, texts, and emails. This added convenience and interaction between the device and your smartphone may influence some users to favor the Vivosmart 4 over the Vivofit 4.
Price and Value
Garmin Vivofit 4
At a price of $79.95, the Vivofit 4 offers solid value for money with its decent range of features and exceptional battery life. It is a suitable option for those who prioritise essential fitness tracking capabilities without breaking the bank.
Garmin Vivosmart 4
With a price tag of $130, the Vivosmart 4 offers a myriad of advanced features and functionalities, catering to individuals who require in-depth fitness tracking and smart notifications. The additional investment may be justifiable for those seeking a more comprehensive wearable experience.
Comparison of price and value
The Vivofit 4 offers a cost-effective solution for casual users, while the Vivosmart 4 caters to those who require more advanced features and notifications. The choice between the two depends on individual preferences for features, functionalities, and budgets.
Conclusion
Ultimately, the decision between the Garmin Vivofit 4 and the Vivosmart 4 comes down to personal needs and priorities. The Vivofit 4 is an excellent choice for casual users seeking essential fitness tracking features and an incredibly long battery life. On the other hand, the Vivosmart 4 is ideal for those who require in-depth data analysis and smart notification functionalities. Evaluate your personal preferences and requirements to make an informed choice that will best complement your fitness journey.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can Garmin Vivofit 4 pair with a heart rate monitor?
Yes, the Garmin Vivofit 4 can be paired with an external heart rate monitor to track heart rate data during activities.
Does the Garmin Vivosmart 4 track calories burned accurately?
The Garmin Vivosmart 4 estimates calories burned based on a combination of factors, such as user profile data and activity intensity. While the estimation may not be perfectly precise, it provides a helpful indication of your calorie expenditure throughout the day.
Can I wear the Garmin Vivofit 4 in the shower?
Yes, the Garmin Vivofit 4 has a water resistance rating of 5 ATM, allowing it to be worn in the shower or while swimming.
How do I charge the Garmin Vivosmart 4?
Garmin Vivosmart 4 can be recharged using the proprietary USB charger included in the package. Simply connect the device to the charger and plug the charger into a USB outlet or power bank.
Do I need to carry my phone while using the Garmin Vivosmart 4 for GPS activities?
As the Garmin Vivosmart 4 does not have built-in GPS, you will need to carry your smartphone during activities that require GPS tracking. The device will connect to your phone’s GPS to provide accurate distance and route data.
