Comparing VivoActive 4 and Vivosport
Garmin, a renowned brand in the world of smartwatches, fitness trackers, and wearables, has introduced two remarkable devices: the Garmin VivoActive 4 and Garmin Vivosport. Both products offer distinctive features and cater to different user preferences and requirements.
Choosing the right watch is crucial, as it not only complements one’s lifestyle, but also motivates and assists in achieving fitness goals. Garmin, with its reputation for innovation, performance, and reliability, has continuously pushed boundaries and delivered top-notch products, backed by years of experience.
This article will discuss the various aspects of these two products to guide potential buyers in their decision-making process, including design and build, features, user experience, price, and overall value. The article will provide a comprehensive and detailed comparison to make the selection process easy and informative.
Design and Build
Garmin VivoActive 4
Garmin VivoActive 4, released in 2019, showcases an elegant and sleek design, comprised of the following features:
- Materials used: Fiber-reinforced polymer case with a stainless steel bezel
- Size and weight: 45.1 x 45.1 x 12.8 mm; 50.5 g
- Display: 1.3-inch sunlight-visible, transflective memory-in-pixel (MIP) display with 260 x 260 pixels resolution
Garmin Vivosport
The Garmin Vivosport, released in 2017, offers a slim and lightweight design, equipped with:
- Materials used: Fiberglass-reinforced polymer case
- Size and weight: Dimensions not specified; 24 g
- Display: Sunlight-readable, transflective MIP display with 72 x 144 pixels resolution
Comparison of design and build quality
While both devices sport durable polymer cases, VivoActive 4 features a stainless steel bezel. The VivoActive 4 has a larger and higher-resolution screen than the Vivosport, contributing to better visuals and readability. However, the Vivosport weighs less, providing a more comfortable fit for extended periods.
Features and Functionality
Garmin VivoActive 4
The VivoActive 4 runs on Wear OS, offering a wide range of features including:
- Sensors: GPS, GLONASS, Galileo, Garmin Elevate wrist heart rate monitor, Barometric altimeter, Compass, Gyroscope, Accelerometer, Thermometer, Pulse Ox sensor
- Battery life: Up to 8 days in smartwatch mode
- Fitness tracking: Activity profiles for various sports, onboard workouts, and more
- Other features: Music storage and playback, Garmin Pay, notifications, and personalized watch faces
Garmin Vivosport
The Vivosport may not have Wear OS, but it still offers a wide array of features:
- Sensors: GPS, Garmin Elevate wrist heart rate monitor, Barometric altimeter, Compass, Accelerometer
- Battery life: Up to 7 days in smartwatch mode
- Fitness tracking: Activity profiles for walking, running, and cycling, and more
- Other features: Notifications, basic phone functions, and music control
Comparison of features and performance
The VivoActive 4 has a more comprehensive feature set, including additional sensors, payment support, and music storage, while the Vivosport focuses on essential features. The VivoActive 4 has a longer battery life, lasting up to eight days compared to the Vivosport’s seven days. Both devices offer accurate fitness tracking and navigation, catering to users' different needs and preferences.
User Interface and User Experience
Garmin VivoActive 4
The VivoActive 4 provides a user-friendly experience and is compatible with Android and iOS smartphones. Its feature set includes:
- Display: 1.3-inch MIP touchscreen
- Navigation: Swipe-based, button controls, and customizable layouts
- Apps and customization: Connect IQ Store access, downloadable watch faces and widgets
Garmin Vivosport
Like its counterpart, the Vivosport provides a seamless experience and compatibility with Android and iOS smartphones. Its features include:
- Display: MIP touchscreen
- Navigation: Swipe-based, button controls
- Apps and customization: Limited options for personalization
Comparison of user interface and user experience
Both devices offer easy navigation and seamless smartphone connectivity. However, the VivoActive 4 provides more customization and flexibility through access to the Connect IQ store, while the Vivosport offers limited personalization options.
Price and Value
Garmin VivoActive 4
The Garmin VivoActive 4 retails at $349, offering a multitude of features and a premium build for its price.
Garmin Vivosport
At a lower price point of $199, the Garmin Vivosport delivers essential features in a slim, lightweight design.
Comparison of price and value
Both devices cater to different customer needs and budgets. Buyers may find the VivoActive 4 to hold greater value due to its extensive feature set, while others may prefer the Vivosport for its affordability and essential functionality.
Conclusion
Ultimately, the choice between the Garmin VivoActive 4 and Vivosport depends on individual needs, preferences, and budget. While the VivoActive 4 offers more features, customization, and a superior build, the Vivosport provides an affordable and lightweight option with essential functions. Regardless of the choice, Garmin’s reputation for quality and performance ensures satisfaction for both devices.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which device has better water resistance?
Both the Garmin VivoActive 4 and Vivosport have a water resistance rating of 5 ATM, making them suitable for swimming and water-based activities.
Can I answer phone calls on these devices?
While both devices can display notifications and allow for basic phone functions, they do not have built-in speakers or microphones for call handling.
Do they support third-party apps?
The Garmin VivoActive 4 supports third-party apps through the Connect IQ store, while the Vivosport does not have app support.
Can I use these devices for strength training?
The Garmin VivoActive 4 offers activity profiles and tracking features for strength training, while the Vivosport focuses on walking, running, and cycling.
How can I personalize the watch faces?
The Garmin VivoActive 4 allows for customizable watch faces through the Connect IQ store, while the Vivosport offers limited personalization options.
