Comparing VivoActive 4 and Forerunner 935
Smartwatches have become a must-have accessory for fitness enthusiasts, and it’s easy to see why. These comprehensive devices offer a one-stop solution for tracking various aspects of physical health, from heart rate to sleep patterns. Garmin, a renowned brand in the world of wearables, offers numerous smartwatches with a range of features and functions. In this article, we are comparing the Garmin Forerunner 935 and the Garmin VivoActive 4, two popular models from the brand, to help you determine which watch is the best fit for your needs.
To make an informed decision, it is important to understand the unique features and specifications of each smartwatch. In doing so, you will not only be able to cater to your specific requirements but also select a device that offers the best value for money.
Garmin, founded in 1989, has a long-standing reputation for crafting innovative wearable devices. Today, the brand is known for its dedication to producing top-quality products, such as the Forerunner 935 and the VivoActive 4. By exploring the design, features, user interface, price, and value of these watches, this article aims to provide a comprehensive comparison and help you make an informed purchase.
Design and Build
Garmin Forerunner 935
The Forerunner 935 weighs only 49 grams, making it a comfortable option for extended periods of wear. It features a 1.2-inch diameter display with 240 x 240-pixel resolution, encased in a high-quality plastic bezel. The screen is made of durable glass and offers excellent clarity in direct sunlight. With water resistance of up to 5 ATM, the watch can withstand various weather conditions and can be used in swimming pools.
Garmin VivoActive 4
The VivoActive 4 boasts a slightly larger 1.3-inch diameter screen with a resolution of 260 x 260 pixels. Its design is sleek and stylish, with a stainless steel bezel surrounding the toughened glass display. Weighing in at just under 51 grams, the watch is lightweight and offers the same 5 ATM water resistance as the Forerunner 935. This model is also compatible with a variety of activities, not just swimming but also cycling and nighttime activities.
Comparison of design and build quality
Both smartwatches are similar in terms of design features and build quality, with durable materials and comfortable wrist straps. The VivoActive 4 offers a slightly larger and higher resolution screen, while the Forerunner 935 is slightly more lightweight for a marginally more comfortable wear. Overall, both watches showcase excellent build quality and inherent durability, ensuring longevity and user satisfaction.
Features and Functionality
Garmin Forerunner 935
Key features of the Forerunner 935 include an array of fitness tracking tools, such as distance tracking, sleep monitoring, and heart rate monitoring. The watch is equipped with important sensors, including GPS, an accelerometer, a barometer, and an altimeter. The battery life of up to 2 weeks makes it ideal for extended usage without worrying about frequent recharges. The Forerunner 935 runs on Garmin’s proprietary operating system and is compatible with both Android and iOS devices.
Garmin VivoActive 4
The Garmin VivoActive 4 runs on Wear OS and is also compatible with Android and iOS smartphones. In addition to similar features as the Forerunner 935, this model includes music functionalities and extra workouts for users to discover. The battery life is slightly shorter, lasting up to 8 days, but the presence of GPS, NFC, and Wi-Fi promises a rich user experience overall.
Comparison of features and performance
Both watches offer a comprehensive range of features, with the VivoActive 4 excelling in music capabilities, additional workouts, and an enhanced display. The Forerunner 935, on the other hand, flaunts its superior battery life, making it more suitable for users who prioritize longer usage periods between charges. Both models offer a reliable, accurate, and enjoyable user experience.
User Interface and User Experience
Garmin Forerunner 935
The Forerunner 935 comes equipped with a high-quality LCD display, built-in navigation, a variety of compatible apps, and customizable watch faces. It also offers compatibility with smartphones, thanks to Bluetooth connectivity, and allows for text, email, and phone functions. It is further complemented with vibration alerts and audio speakers.
Garmin VivoActive 4
The VivoActive 4 boasts a superior screen, featuring MIP technology for improved visibility. With ample options for navigation, app compatibility, and device personalization, the user experience is enriched. Additionally, this watch offers smartphone connectivity, text and email functions, and vibration alerts. Although it lacks audio speakers, it more than makes up for it by featuring comprehensive music functionalities.
Comparison of user interface and user experience
Both watches offer excellent user interfaces and experiences, with clear displays and an array of customizable options. The VivoActive 4 has an advantage with its improved MIP display and music compatibility, whereas the Forerunner 935 benefits from in-built audio speakers. Users may prefer one watch over the other, depending on their priorities and preferences.
Price and Value
Garmin Forerunner 935
Priced at $500, the Garmin Forerunner 935 offers a multitude of features and an extended battery life of up to 2 weeks. This makes it an exceptional choice for users who prioritize long usage periods and seek a reliable, premium smartwatch.
Garmin VivoActive 4
With a price tag of $349, the VivoActive 4 is a more budget-friendly option that still offers a wide variety of features, including music functionalities and additional workouts. Despite its shorter battery life, it remains an excellent choice for those seeking high-quality features at a more affordable price.
Comparison of price and value
While the Forerunner 935 caters more to dedicated athletes with its increased battery life and audio features, the VivoActive 4 offers a wider range of features at a lower price point, making it ideal for both fitness enthusiasts and casual users. Considering the differences in their price and features, both smartwatches provide good value for money, depending on user priorities.
Conclusion
The Garmin Forerunner 935 and VivoActive 4 are both excellent smartwatches, offering a myriad of features to cater to every fitness enthusiast. Depending on individual preferences and priorities, users may lean towards one watch over the other. For those who prioritize extensive battery life and audio speakers, the Forerunner 935 may be the better choice, while users who value a budget-friendly option with music features and additional workouts may opt for the VivoActive 4.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which Garmin watch is better for triathlons?
While both the Forerunner 935 and VivoActive 4 are suitable for triathlons, the Forerunner 935 has been specifically designed with multi-sport athletes in mind, offering a range of tracking capabilities ideal for triathlon training and events.
Can I listen to music on my Garmin Forerunner 935 or VivoActive 4?
While the Forerunner 935 does not have direct music playback capabilities, the VivoActive 4 offers built-in music-playing functionalities, making it a better choice for users who prioritize music during workouts.
Are these watches compatible with third-party sensors, like heart rate chest straps?
Both the Garmin Forerunner 935 and VivoActive 4 are compatible with third-party sensors, including heart rate chest straps, enabling users to accurately monitor their heart rate during workouts.
Do the Forerunner 935 and VivoActive 4 track sleep?
Yes, both smartwatches include sleep tracking capabilities, allowing users to monitor their sleep patterns and gain insights into their overall well-being.
Can I use either smartwatch for phone calls and text messaging?
Both the Garmin Forerunner 935 and VivoActive 4 support phone and text messaging functions when paired with a compatible smartphone using Bluetooth connectivity. This allows users to stay connected even while out on the go.
