Comparing Vivosmart HR Plus and Vivosmart HR
Welcome to this review and comparison of the Garmin Vivosmart HR and Garmin Vivosmart HR Plus, designed to help you make an informed decision when choosing the right fitness tracker. These devices are not only about aesthetics and brand reputation but also about finding the perfect match for your fitness goals and personal preferences.
Garmin is a well-respected brand in the world of wearables, renowned for its high-quality and reliable products. Their history spans more than three decades, beginning as a navigation equipment company and gradually becoming a global leader in the wearable technology industry.
In this article, we will explore the design and build quality, features, user interface, pricing, and value of the Garmin Vivosmart HR and Vivosmart HR Plus. Our goal is to provide you with valuable information to help you choose the device best suited to your needs.
Design and Build
Garmin Vivosmart HR
The Garmin Vivosmart HR is made from durable materials, ensuring a long-lasting and comfortable wearable experience. Its dimensions measure 1.08 inches x 0.77 inches, with a weight of 29.6 g. The black-and-white 160 x 68 pixel screen is clearly visible, providing vital statistics at a glance.
Garmin Vivosmart HR Plus
Similarly, the Garmin Vivosmart HR Plus is constructed of high-quality materials, guaranteeing durability and comfort. This device has a slightly larger screen, measuring 0.5 inches x 0.8 inches but maintains the same 160 x 68-pixel resolution. The Vivosmart HR Plus also has a touch-enabled screen, adding to its user-friendly features.
Comparison of design and build quality
Both the Vivosmart HR and Vivosmart HR Plus offer solid build quality and a comfortable design. The Vivosmart HR Plus has a touch-enabled screen, but aside from this, there are few significant differences between the two models. Personal preference will determine which device best meets your needs in terms of design and build quality.
Features and Functionality
Garmin Vivosmart HR
The Garmin Vivosmart HR comes equipped with various health tracking capabilities, including calories burned, distance traveled, heart rate monitoring, sleep tracking, and step counting. Compatible with Android and iOS devices, this tracker has a 5-day battery life and charges easily with its rechargeable battery. The Vivosmart HR also has Bluetooth connectivity, but lacks GPS functionality.
Garmin Vivosmart HR Plus
Offering a similar range of health tracking features, the Garmin Vivosmart HR Plus also monitors calories burned, distance, heart rate, sleep, and steps. However, the key difference between these two devices is the addition of GPS functionality in the Vivosmart HR Plus. Like its counterpart, this fitness tracker is compatible with Android, iOS, and Windows Phone devices, and has a 5-day battery life.
Comparison of features and performance
Both the Vivosmart HR and Vivosmart HR Plus offer a comprehensive range of fitness tracking features. The most notable difference between them is the GPS functionality found in the Vivosmart HR Plus, which may be a decisive factor for some users. Battery life, compatibility, and connectivity features are similar in both models.
User Interface and User Experience
Garmin Vivosmart HR
The Garmin Vivosmart HR features a simple and user-friendly interface, delivering essential information on its black-and-white display. While it does not have touch capabilities, navigation through its menus is relatively easy. The device supports phone functions, including vibration alerts for calls, texts, and emails.
Garmin Vivosmart HR Plus
The Vivosmart HR Plus, with its touch-enabled screen, offers a slightly more intuitive user experience. This device also supports phone functions such as call, text, and email notifications, and allows easy access to a range of fitness tracking features and data.
Comparison of user interface and user experience
Both the Garmin Vivosmart HR and Vivosmart HR Plus provide user-friendly interfaces, with the key difference being the touchscreen functionality of the Vivosmart HR Plus. Most users should find both devices easy to navigate and interact with. The choice between these devices ultimately comes down to personal preference.
Price and Value
Garmin Vivosmart HR
At a retail price of $170, the Garmin Vivosmart HR offers a great balance of features and affordability. For those seeking a reliable fitness tracker without the need for GPS functionality, the Vivosmart HR is an excellent choice.
Garmin Vivosmart HR Plus
With a retail price of $179, the Garmin Vivosmart HR Plus is only slightly more expensive than its counterpart. If GPS tracking is an important feature for you, the small price increase may be well worth it for the additional functionality provided by the Vivosmart HR Plus.
Comparison of price and value
Both the Garmin Vivosmart HR and Vivosmart HR Plus offer strong value for money in their respective price ranges. The decision between them will likely depend on whether or not GPS functionality is a priority.
Conclusion
In summary, the Garmin Vivosmart HR and Vivosmart HR Plus are both reliable and feature-rich fitness trackers, delivering a range of capabilities to suit your individual needs. The key deciding factor between these two devices is the inclusion of GPS functionality in the Vivosmart HR Plus, which may be important for some users. By considering the various factors outlined in this review, you can choose the fitness tracker that best matches your preferences and requirements.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are either of these fitness trackers suitable for swimming?
Both devices are water-resistant up to 5 ATM, which is suitable for surface swimming, shallow snorkeling, and similar activities. However, neither device is specifically designed for swim tracking.
Do both devices support music controls?
Yes, both the Garmin Vivosmart HR and Vivosmart HR Plus support music control features when connected to a compatible smartphone.
Which device would be better for those who frequently exercise outdoors?
The Garmin Vivosmart HR Plus, with its GPS functionality, would be more suitable for outdoor activities, as it can provide more accurate tracking data for distance-based exercises.
Is there a significant difference in screen quality between the two models?
Both the Garmin Vivosmart HR and Vivosmart HR Plus have the same 160 x 68-pixel screen resolution, with the main difference being the touch capabilities of the Vivosmart HR Plus.
Does either device have a dedicated app store for additional functionality?
Neither the Garmin Vivosmart HR nor the Vivosmart HR Plus have a dedicated app store. Instead, they provide a range of built-in features, along with compatibility with popular third-party fitness apps.
