Comparing VivoActive 4 and Vivomove
The Garmin Vivomove and Garmin VivoActive 4 are two popular smartwatches that cater to different preferences and lifestyles. Both devices come from Garmin, an established name in GPS technology and wearable fitness devices. Knowing which smartwatch suits your needs the best is crucial to getting the most value and satisfaction from your purchase.
Garmin has a strong reputation for producing high-quality wearables designed to aid in fitness tracking and general lifestyle improvement. Having been in the market for years, the brand has honed its expertise in creating devices that cater to various needs and preferences, which is reflected in these two products.
In this article, we’ll delve into the design, features, user interface, and other aspects of both the Vivomove and VivoActive 4. With a detailed comparison, you can make an informed decision on the best smartwatch for your lifestyle.
Design and Build
Garmin Vivomove
The Garmin Vivomove boasts a sleek and minimalist design, featuring a traditional analog watch face with hidden smart features. Its lightweight construction uses a combination of stainless steel and glass for the casing, weighing around 40 grams. The display on the Vivomove is hidden and only appears when you need it, keeping a discreet and stylish appearance.
Garmin VivoActive 4
With a more sporty appearance than the Vivomove, the Garmin VivoActive 4 incorporates a touchscreen color display with a resolution of 260 x 260 pixels. Weighing approximately 50 grams, this smartwatch employs a durable fiber-reinforced polymer case with a stainless steel bezel. The 1.3-inch screen size offers ample space for viewing notifications, apps, and other content.
Comparison of design and build quality
Both devices showcase Garmin’s dedication to quality and style, albeit targeting different preferences. The Vivomove caters to users who prefer a more traditional, classic watch design with hidden smart features. On the other hand, the VivoActive 4 suits those who embrace a sportier, functional look. While both offer 5 ATM water resistance, the primary difference between these devices lies in the display, design choice, and overall aesthetics.
Features and Functionality
Garmin Vivomove
Despite its more discreet appearance, the Garmin Vivomove offers various handy features, including an accelerometer for tracking distance and steps, basic sleep tracking, notifications for Android and iOS, and a battery life that lasts up to one year. However, its performance in terms of fitness tracking and smart features is somewhat limited compared to more advanced options.
Garmin VivoActive 4
The Garmin VivoActive 4 is equipped with an impressive array of features, such as GPS, heart rate monitoring, blood oxygen tracking, sleep tracking, a barometer, and advanced fitness tracking for activities like swimming and cycling. Furthermore, it provides comprehensive notifications, support for Wear OS apps, and audio control for music playback. With a rechargeable battery that lasts up to 8 days, this smartwatch offers a dynamic user experience.
Comparison of features and performance
While the Vivomove offers basic tracking functionality and a subtle design, the VivoActive 4 delivers a more comprehensive feature set geared towards fitness enthusiasts and those seeking expanded smart capabilities. For individuals primarily focused on activity and health tracking, the VivoActive 4 is the superior choice. However, if appearance and discretion are more critical factors, the Vivomove would be the more suitable option.
User Interface and User Experience
Garmin Vivomove
With a minimalist design that primarily serves as a stylish wristwatch, the Garmin Vivomove offers a limited interface for viewing notifications and tracking data. Navigation is simple, as users interact with the device mainly through touch gestures. Customization options are minimal, and the compatibility with smartphones is limited to essential functions such as receiving notifications and syncing with the Garmin Connect app.
Garmin VivoActive 4
In contrast, the Garmin VivoActive 4 provides a full touchscreen display with a more interactive user interface. Its compatibility with Wear OS allows users to download apps, access a variety of watch faces, and enjoy increased functionality. Customization options are more extensive on this device, giving users the freedom to tailor their smartwatch experience to their preferences.
Comparison of user interface and user experience
The VivoActive 4 outshines the Vivomove in terms of user experience, providing a more engaging interface and versatile features. This is especially true for those looking for enhanced customization options and full access to smartphone features such as calls, texts, and emails. The Vivomove, however, still attracts those who prefer a straightforward, classic design with basic smart functionality.
Price and Value
Garmin Vivomove
With its minimalist design and limited feature set, the Garmin Vivomove falls within a lower price range of around $250. While this price point is justifiable for those seeking a discreet and stylish watch with basic smart capabilities, it may not satisfy those who require more advanced features.
Garmin VivoActive 4
At a higher price point of $349, the Garmin VivoActive 4 may seem more expensive initially. However, considering its extensive list of features, it could prove more valuable for those seeking a comprehensive smartwatch experience with advanced fitness tracking and versatile customization options.
Comparison of price and value
The value of each smartwatch ultimately depends on the preferences and needs of the individual user. For those who prioritize aesthetics and minimalism, the Vivomove is the more attractive option. However, fitness enthusiasts and individuals in search of a fully functional device will find greater value in the VivoActive 4—in this case, the higher price is justifiable.
Conclusion
Both the Garmin Vivomove and VivoActive 4 deliver stylish designs and reliability synonymous with the Garmin brand. The primary factors to consider when determining the best smartwatch for your lifestyle include design preferences, desired features, and specific use cases. The Vivomove is an ideal option for those seeking a classic watch design and basic functionality, while the VivoActive 4 serves as a comprehensive wearable for fitness enthusiasts and tech-savvy users.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Are both devices compatible with Android and iOS?
Yes, both the Garmin Vivomove and VivoActive 4 are compatible with Android and iOS smartphones.
2. Are both smartwatches suitable for swimming?
While both devices offer a 5 ATM water resistance, only the Garmin VivoActive 4 includes swim tracking capabilities.
3. Can I receive notifications on both devices?
Yes, both the Garmin Vivomove and VivoActive 4 provide notification functionality for Android and iOS smartphones.
4. Which device offers better battery life?
The Garmin Vivomove has a battery life of up to one year, while the VivoActive 4 lasts up to 8 days on a single charge.
5. Can I download apps on both devices?
No, only the Garmin VivoActive 4 is compatible with Wear OS, allowing you to download apps, access watch faces, and enjoy increased functionality.
