Comparing Vivofit 4 and Loop 2
Garmin Vivofit 4 and Polar Loop 2 are two popular fitness trackers that come from reputable companies known for making high-quality wearable fitness devices. Choosing the right tracker is essential as it can help monitor and improve your overall health and wellbeing. These devices offer a range of features that cater to different fitness needs and preferences.
Garmin is a globally recognized brand, well-known for its advanced GPS and sports technology products. Since its inception in 1989, the company has consistently delivered innovative and reliable products. Polar, on the other hand, is renowned for its pioneering work in heart rate monitoring, with its roots dating back to 1977. Both companies have a strong reputation for producing high-quality and reliable fitness wearables.
In this article, we will be comparing Garmin Vivofit 4 and Polar Loop 2 in terms of design, features, user interface, price, and value. By examining the similarities and differences between these two fitness trackers, our goal is to help you make an informed decision based on your individual requirements and preferences.
Design and Build
Garmin Vivofit 4
The Garmin Vivofit 4 features:
- Materials: Synthetic rubber, bezel is made of chemically strengthened glass
- Size: Adjustable bands available in small/medium and large sizes
- Weight: 25g
- Display: 88 x 88-pixel color display with touchscreen
Polar Loop 2
The Polar Loop 2 features:
- Materials: Soft silicone band with a stainless steel buckle
- Size: Adjustable band to fit various wrist sizes
- Weight: 38g
- Display: LED display without a touchscreen
Comparison of design and build quality
Both devices are lightweight and comfortable to wear for extended periods. Garmin Vivofit 4 comes with a color display and a touchscreen, making it more visually appealing and easier to navigate than the Polar Loop 2. Polar Loop 2 has a simpler LED display without a touchscreen. In terms of materials, the Garmin Vivofit 4 uses synthetic rubber, while the Polar Loop 2 has a soft silicone band. Both are highly durable and water-resistant, but the Garmin Vivofit 4 has a higher water resistance rating of 5ATM compared to the 2ATM of the Polar Loop 2.
Features and Functionality
Garmin Vivofit 4
Some notable features of the Garmin Vivofit 4 include:
- Operating System: Proprietary Garmin OS
- Sensors: Accelerometer
- Battery life: 1 year (not rechargeable)
- Fitness tracking: Steps, distance, calories burned, sleep, and swimming
- Other features: Move IQ automatic activity detection and personalized daily step goal
Polar Loop 2
Key features of the Polar Loop 2 include:
- Sensors: Accelerometer
- Battery life: 8 days (without notifications and with a rechargeable battery)
- Fitness tracking: Steps, distance, calories burned, sleep, and heart rate (with an additional accessory)
- Other features: Smart notifications, inactivity alerts, and customizable LED display
Comparison of features and performance
Garmin Vivofit 4 and Polar Loop 2 both track steps, distance, calories burned, and sleep. However, the Vivofit 4 also offers swim tracking, while Loop 2 requires an additional accessory for heart rate monitoring. The Vivofit 4 has a much longer battery life of 1 year, but it is not rechargeable. The Polar Loop 2 has a rechargeable battery that offers up to 8 days of use without notifications. Both devices are compatible with Android and iOS smartphones and feature Bluetooth connectivity. While neither device offers GPS, NFC, or Wi-Fi, each has its unique features, such as Move IQ and daily step goals for the Vivofit 4, and smart notifications and inactivity alerts for the Loop 2.
User Interface and User Experience
Garmin Vivofit 4
The Garmin Vivofit 4 offers:
- Display: Color touchscreen
- Navigation: Intuitive gesture-based navigation
- Apps and customization: Limited customization via Garmin Connect App
- Compatibility: Android and iOS smartphones
Polar Loop 2
The Polar Loop 2 provides:
- Display: LED display (non-touch)
- Navigation: Simple button-based operation
- Apps and customization: Polar Flow app for tracking and analysis
- Compatibility: Android and iOS smartphones
Comparison of user interface and user experience
The Garmin Vivofit 4 has a more user-friendly interface, thanks to its color touchscreen and intuitive gesture-based navigation. The Polar Loop 2 relies on a simpler LED display with button-based operation. Both devices offer basic customization through their respective mobile apps, Garmin Connect, and Polar Flow. Additionally, they are both compatible with Android and iOS smartphones.
Price and Value
Garmin Vivofit 4
With a price of $79.95, the Garmin Vivofit 4 offers a wide range of features and an impressive battery life at an affordable price point.
Polar Loop 2
The Polar Loop 2 costs $120 and provides smart notifications, inactivity alerts, and the potential for heart rate tracking with a separate accessory.
Comparison of price and value
When comparing prices, the Garmin Vivofit 4 is more affordable than the Polar Loop 2. While both trackers have similarities in terms of fitness tracking features, the Vivofit 4 provides a better display, longer battery life, and additional swim tracking capabilities. For those seeking smart notifications, the Loop 2 offers this feature but at a higher price point.
Conclusion
After examining the design, features, user interface, and price of Garmin Vivofit 4 and Polar Loop 2, it is evident that each device caters to different users' preferences and requirements. The Garmin Vivofit 4 offers more value for its price, with the additional benefit of a color touchscreen and extended battery life. However, the Polar Loop 2 provides smart notifications and potential heart rate tracking for those willing to purchase an additional accessory. Ultimately, the choice between Garmin Vivofit 4 and Polar Loop 2 depends on your preferences and fitness needs.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use either device while swimming?
Yes, the Garmin Vivofit 4 is water-resistant up to 5ATM, which means it is safe to use while swimming. However, the Polar Loop 2, with its water resistance rating of 2ATM, is suitable for splashes and showering, but not recommended for swimming.
Do these devices offer heart rate monitoring?
The Garmin Vivofit 4 does not have a built-in heart rate monitor. The Polar Loop 2 can monitor heart rate but requires an additional accessory, such as the Polar H7 or H10 heart rate sensor.
Can I receive notifications from my smartphone on these devices?
The Polar Loop 2 can receive notifications for calls, messages, and social media updates when connected to a compatible smartphone. The Garmin Vivofit 4 does not offer smartphone notifications.
Do they require charging?
The Garmin Vivofit 4 has a non-rechargeable battery that lasts up to 1 year, whereas the Polar Loop 2 has a rechargeable battery with an 8-day battery life (without notifications).
Can I customize the display and appearance of the devices?
Yes, both Garmin Vivofit 4 and Polar Loop 2 offer limited customization options through their respective mobile apps, Garmin Connect and Polar Flow.
