Comparing Vivosmart HR Plus and Vivofit 3
When it comes to choosing a fitness tracker, the decision can be quite challenging with so many options available on the market. The Garmin Vivofit 3 and the Garmin Vivosmart HR Plus are two popular options that cater to different needs and budgets. The importance of selecting the right watch lies not only in the aesthetic appeal but also in having features tailored to individual activity preferences and fitness goals.
Garmin, a leading company in wearable technology, boasts a rich history and reputation for providing high-quality products. Founded in 1989, Garmin specializes in GPS technology for automotive, aviation, marine, outdoor, and sports activities. In this article, we will compare the Garmin Vivofit 3 and Garmin Vivosmart HR Plus in terms of design, build, features, functionality, user interface, user experience, price, value, and frequently asked questions.
Design and Build
Garmin Vivofit 3
The Vivofit 3 is a slim, lightweight fitness tracker designed for comfort and durability. It features a small monochrome display with a resolution of 64 x 64 pixels and a 0.55-inch screen size. The device is water-resistant up to 5 ATM, making it suitable for swimming and water-based activities. With its flexible band and minimalist design, the Vivofit 3 is a practical choice for everyday wear.
Garmin Vivosmart HR Plus
On the other hand, the Vivosmart HR Plus is a more robust fitness tracker, featuring a rectangular LCD touchscreen display with a 160 x 68-pixel resolution, in a screen size of 0.5 x 0.8 inches. This tracker is also water-resistant up to 5 ATM, making it suitable for swimming and other water activities. With a slightly bulkier design than that of the Vivofit 3, the Vivosmart HR Plus is designed to withstand rigorous workouts.
Comparison of design and build quality
While both devices offer similar levels of water resistance, the Vivofit 3 opts for a more minimalist design, whereas the Vivosmart HR Plus sports a slightly larger touchscreen display. The Vivofit 3 stands out for its lightweight design, while the Vivosmart HR Plus offers more durability and a richer user experience thanks to its touchscreen.
Features and Functionality
Garmin Vivofit 3
Despite its minimalistic design, the Vivofit 3 is packed with features, including step tracking, distance tracking, sleep tracking, cycling (bicycling) tracking, and calories tracking. The device is compatible with Android, iOS, and Windows phones and supports Bluetooth connectivity. Unfortunately, the Vivofit 3 lacks GPS, heart rate tracking, and other advanced functionalities, but it boasts an outstanding battery life that can last up to 1 year without requiring a charge.
Garmin Vivosmart HR Plus
The Vivosmart HR Plus offers a comprehensive list of features such as step tracking, distance tracking, calories tracking, sleep tracking, heart rate tracking, and built-in GPS. Compatible with Android, iOS, Windows and Mac, it supports Bluetooth connectivity as well. The Vivosmart HR Plus comes with a rechargeable battery that lasts up to 5 days on a single charge, providing a more powerful experience than the Vivofit 3.
Comparison of features and performance
The primary differences between the Vivofit 3 and Vivosmart HR Plus lie in their additional features. The Vivosmart HR Plus offers GPS and heart rate tracking, while the Vivofit 3 focuses on more basic fitness tracking features. Battery life is another notable difference, with the Vivofit 3 outlasting the Vivosmart HR Plus by a significant margin.
User Interface and User Experience
Garmin Vivofit 3
The Vivofit 3 offers a straightforward user interface, with a monochrome display that provides essential information at a glance. In terms of compatibility, the fitness tracker supports Android, iOS, and Windows Phone devices. Its minimalist design simplifies navigation and interaction, making it a suitable choice for users who prefer a no-fuss experience.
Garmin Vivosmart HR Plus
Compared to the Vivofit 3, the Vivosmart HR Plus features a richer user experience thanks to its touchscreen LCD display. The device allows users to access information and manage settings by tapping or swiping through various screens. This fitness tracker is compatible with not only Android, iOS, and Windows Phone devices but also Mac and Windows computers. The Vivosmart HR Plus delivers a more interactive user experience with its extensive suite of features.
Comparison of user interface and user experience
Both fitness trackers cater to different user preferences when it comes to user interface and user experience. The Vivofit 3 is designed for simplicity and ease of use, while the Vivosmart HR Plus offers a more interactive user experience. Users who prefer touchscreen displays and more advanced features may find the interface of the Vivosmart HR Plus more appealing than that of the Vivofit 3.
Price and Value
Garmin Vivofit 3
Priced at $100, the Garmin Vivofit 3 offers a range of basic fitness tracking features at an affordable price. Its exceptional battery life adds value for users seeking long-lasting performance without the need for frequent charging.
Garmin Vivosmart HR Plus
The Garmin Vivosmart HR Plus, priced at $179, delivers added value with a host of advanced features such as GPS and heart rate tracking. Although its battery life is shorter than that of the Vivofit 3, the device offers a more comprehensive fitness tracking experience for the additional cost.
Comparison of price and value
When it comes to value for money, the decision between the Vivofit 3 and Vivosmart HR Plus depends on individual preferences and priorities. The Vivofit 3 offers essential fitness tracking features and outstanding battery life at a lower price, making it a cost-effective choice for those who prefer simplicity. The Vivosmart HR Plus, on the other hand, justifies its higher price with advanced features and a touchscreen interface that caters to users seeking a more interactive experience.
Conclusion
In the comparison between Garmin Vivofit 3 and Garmin Vivosmart HR Plus, the key points to consider are design, features, user experience, and price. The Vivofit 3 is ideal for those who value simplicity, long battery life, and essential fitness tracking features at an affordable price. The Vivosmart HR Plus, on the other hand, offers an improved user interface, advanced features and performance for a more interactive and comprehensive fitness tracking experience.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which device is better for swimming: Garmin Vivofit 3 or Vivosmart HR Plus?
Both the Garmin Vivofit 3 and Vivosmart HR Plus are suitable for swimming, as they are water-resistant up to 5 ATM. However, only the Vivofit 3 offers swim tracking for dedicated swim data.
Do I need a smartphone to use the Garmin Vivofit 3 or Vivosmart HR Plus?
While both devices can function independently, their functionalities expand when paired with a compatible smartphone. Users can sync their data and access additional features in the Garmin Connect app.
Can I control music on my smartphone with the Garmin Vivofit 3 or Vivosmart HR Plus?
Only the Vivosmart HR Plus offers music controls, allowing users to control smartphone music playback through the device.
How do I charge the battery on the Garmin Vivofit 3?
The Vivofit 3's battery is not rechargeable, requiring a replacement after roughly 1 year of continuous use. A battery replacement can typically be done at authorized Garmin service centers.
Does the Garmin Vivosmart HR Plus support notifications from my smartphone?
Yes, the Garmin Vivosmart HR Plus supports notifications for incoming calls, text messages, and emails when paired with a compatible smartphone.
