Comparing Vivosmart 4 and Vivosmart
When looking to invest in a fitness tracker, the Garmin Vivosmart and Garmin Vivosmart 4 are popular choices among consumers. Both devices come from the respected Garmin brand, which has a long-standing reputation for producing high-quality GPS and wearable technology. To make an informed decision, it’s crucial to closely examine and compare the various aspects of each product such as design, features, and price.
Choosing the right fitness tracker is essential for those who want to improve their physical fitness, monitor their daily activity, and stay informed about their health. The right device can help users reach their fitness goals by tracking essential metrics like heart rate, steps, and sleep patterns. Garmin, as a leading company in the wearable technology industry, has built a strong brand reputation by offering a variety of reliable and innovative products.
This article will provide a detailed comparison of the Garmin Vivosmart and Vivosmart 4, examining design and build, features and functionality, user interface and experience, price and value, as well as answering some frequently asked questions about these products.
Design and Build
Garmin Vivosmart
The Garmin Vivosmart boasts an OLED screen with a resolution of 128 x 16 pixels and a display size of 1.41 inches. This fitness tracker does not have a touch screen but instead utilizes a tap UI for navigation. The water-resistant device (5 ATM) has a sleek and lightweight design, making it comfortable to wear throughout the day.
Garmin Vivosmart 4
On the other hand, the Garmin Vivosmart 4 features a smaller 0.74-inch OLED screen with a resolution of 48 x 128 pixels. This model has a touch screen for easy navigation and is also water-resistant up to 5 ATM. Similar to the Vivosmart, the Vivosmart 4 has a slim design and lightweight build, providing users with comfort and convenience.
Comparison of design and build quality
Both the Garmin Vivosmart and Vivosmart 4 share similarities in their lightweight and sleek designs, making them comfortable to wear during various activities. However, the Vivosmart 4 offers the added benefit of a touch screen, while the Vivosmart uses tap-based navigation. Both devices have a water resistance of 5 ATM, providing protection during activities such as swimming and showering.
Features and Functionality
Garmin Vivosmart
Key features of the Garmin Vivosmart fitness tracker include calories, distance, and sleep tracking. This device also has a phone function, enabling users to receive call and text notifications. However, the Vivosmart lacks certain features available in the Vivosmart 4, such as heart rate monitoring and swim tracking. The device is compatible with Android and iOS smartphones, offers Bluetooth connectivity, and boasts a battery life of up to 7 days.
Garmin Vivosmart 4
The Vivosmart 4 offers a more extensive range of features, including calories, distance, sleep, heart rate, and oxygen tracking. With the added benefit of swim tracking, this fitness tracker is suitable for various activities. The Vivosmart 4 also offers compatibility with Android and iOS smartphones, includes Bluetooth connectivity, and has a battery life of up to 7 days.
Comparison of features and performance
When comparing the Garmin Vivosmart and Vivosmart 4, the Vivosmart 4 outshines its counterpart with a broader array of features, including heart rate monitoring and swim tracking. Both fitness trackers can connect to Android and iOS smartphones via Bluetooth and offer a battery life of up to 7 days. Although the Vivosmart lacks touch capabilities and some essential monitoring features, it remains a solid choice for those seeking a basic fitness tracker.
User Interface and User Experience
Garmin Vivosmart
Even without a touch screen, the Garmin Vivosmart’s user interface is relatively easy to navigate, thanks to its tap-based UI. This fitness tracker provides compatibility with Android and iOS smartphones and allows users to receive call and text notifications through the phone function. However, the Vivosmart has limited customization options and no app compatibility.
Garmin Vivosmart 4
Featuring a touch screen, the Garmin Vivosmart 4 provides a better user experience for those who prefer a more intuitive interface. Like the Vivosmart, the Vivosmart 4 is compatible with Android and iOS smartphones through Bluetooth connectivity. Unfortunately, this device also lacks app compatibility and customization options.
Comparison of user interface and user experience
Overall, the Garmin Vivosmart 4 provides a slightly better user interface than the Vivosmart due to its touch screen capabilities. Both fitness trackers offer compatibility with Android and iOS smartphones, and while they lack app compatibility and customization features, they still provide a user-friendly experience.
Price and Value
Garmin Vivosmart
The Garmin Vivosmart generally retails for around $170, making it a more expensive option than the Vivosmart 4. With fewer features than its counterpart, this fitness tracker may not provide the best value for money.
Garmin Vivosmart 4
The Garmin Vivosmart 4 has a more affordable retail price of around $130, and for consumers seeking a wider range of features, this device offers better value for money.
Comparison of price and value
When considering price and value, the Garmin Vivosmart 4 is the more cost-effective option, providing users with an extensive list of features at a lower cost. Meanwhile, the Garmin Vivosmart is more expensive, but for those seeking a more basic fitness tracker, it could still be an worthy choice.
Conclusion
After thoroughly examining and comparing the Garmin Vivosmart and Vivosmart 4, it’s evident that the Vivosmart 4 offers more features and greater value for money. With its touch screen interface, broader range of tracking capabilities, and a more affordable price point, the Vivosmart 4 stands out as the better choice for most consumers. However, for those who prefer a simpler fitness tracker, the Garmin Vivosmart may still cater to their needs.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which device should I choose if I want to track my swimming?
The Garmin Vivosmart 4 is the better choice for swimming enthusiasts due to its swim tracking capabilities, whereas the Vivosmart lacks this feature.
Are both devices compatible with Windows smartphones?
No, neither the Garmin Vivosmart nor the Vivosmart 4 is compatible with Windows smartphones. Both devices only offer compatibility with Android and iOS smartphones.
Do the Garmin Vivosmart and Vivosmart 4 require a separate smartphone app?
Yes, both devices require the Garmin Connect app to be installed on a compatible smartphone to make the most of their features and sync data.
Can I control music from either the Vivosmart or Vivosmart 4?
Both the Garmin Vivosmart and Vivosmart 4 feature music controls, allowing you to control your smartphone’s music playback directly from your wrist.
Are these devices suitable for monitoring my heart rate during exercise?
The Garmin Vivosmart 4 has a built-in heart rate monitoring feature, making it suitable for tracking heart rate during various activities. In contrast, the Garmin Vivosmart does not have this capability.
