Garmin Vivosmart 4 vs. Garmin Vivosmart 5: A Comprehensive Comparison

The Vital BlueprintUncategorized

Introduction

Garmin has long been a leader in the fitness wearables industry, consistently releasing high-quality fitness trackers. The Garmin Vivosmart series is particularly popular for those who want a compact and feature-rich device. With the launch of the Garmin Vivosmart 5, many users wonder how it stacks up against its predecessor, the Garmin Vivosmart 4.

In this comprehensive guide, we’ll compare the two models across multiple categories, including design, features, battery life, accuracy, and overall value, to help you decide which device best fits your needs.

Design and Build Quality

Garmin Vivosmart 4

The Vivosmart 4 features a slim and stylish design with an aluminum bezel and an OLED display. It is lightweight, making it comfortable for all-day wear. However, the display is small, measuring 0.26 x 0.70 inches, and can be challenging to read in direct sunlight. The silicone band is integrated into the body, meaning users cannot swap out the band if it gets damaged.

Garmin Vivosmart 5

Garmin made noticeable design improvements with the Vivosmart 5. It has a slightly larger OLED screen (measuring 0.41 x 0.73 inches), which makes it easier to read notifications and fitness stats. Unlike the Vivosmart 4, the Vivosmart 5 features interchangeable bands, allowing users to replace them if they wear out. The overall aesthetic remains sleek and lightweight, but with enhanced usability.

Winner: Garmin Vivosmart 5 – The larger display and interchangeable bands make it a more practical choice.

Display and User Interface

One of the most significant differences between the two models is the display size and user interface.

  • Vivosmart 4: The touchscreen display is small, requiring precision when navigating menus. Some users find it less responsive.
  • Vivosmart 5: The larger screen improves readability and makes interactions smoother.

Garmin also simplified the interface in the Vivosmart 5 by introducing a physical button in addition to the touchscreen. This button makes navigation easier, particularly during workouts when sweaty fingers can affect touch responsiveness.

Winner: Garmin Vivosmart 5 – The larger display and added button improve usability. View the price on Amazon

Fitness and Health Tracking Features

Both the Vivosmart 4 and Vivosmart 5 include a robust set of health and fitness tracking features, but the newer model enhances several key metrics.

Similar Features

Both devices offer:

  • Heart rate monitoring (24/7 tracking)
  • Pulse Ox sensor for blood oxygen levels
  • Sleep tracking with sleep stages
  • Step counting and activity tracking
  • Calorie burn estimation
  • VO2 Max estimation
  • Body Battery energy monitoring

Differences

  • Vivosmart 4: Includes a stress tracking feature and a relaxation breathing timer, which are useful for users focusing on mindfulness and wellness.
  • Vivosmart 5: Features improved heart rate accuracy and introduces real-time incident detection and safety tracking, making it a better option for outdoor enthusiasts or those concerned about safety during workouts.

Winner: Garmin Vivosmart 5 – The improved sensors and safety features give it an edge.

Smart Features and Connectivity

While fitness tracking is the primary focus, smart features are an important consideration.

Garmin Vivosmart 4

  • Smartphone notifications for calls, texts, and apps
  • Music playback control
  • Weather updates
  • Find My Phone feature

Garmin Vivosmart 5

  • All features of the Vivosmart 4
  • Ability to respond to texts (Android users only)
  • More customizable watch faces
  • Improved Bluetooth connectivity for better syncing with Garmin Connect

While both models provide essential smart features, Android users will appreciate the ability to reply to texts on the Vivosmart 5.

Winner: Garmin Vivosmart 5 – The added ability to respond to texts and improved connectivity make it the superior option.

Battery Life

Battery life is a crucial factor in choosing a fitness tracker. Both devices offer solid performance, but there are some distinctions.

  • Garmin Vivosmart 4: Lasts up to 7 days on a single charge.
  • Garmin Vivosmart 5: Also lasts up to 7 days, despite its larger screen and enhanced features.

While the battery life remains the same, Garmin improved charging speed on the Vivosmart 5, meaning it can be charged faster when needed.

Winner: Tie – Both offer 7-day battery life, though the Vivosmart 5 charges faster.

Accuracy of Tracking Metrics

One of the major concerns with fitness trackers is accuracy.

  • The Vivosmart 4 sometimes struggles with heart rate accuracy, especially during high-intensity workouts.
  • The Vivosmart 5 includes a more advanced heart rate sensor, leading to better accuracy, especially during intense exercises.

GPS tracking is missing on both devices, requiring users to pair with a smartphone for GPS functionality.

Winner: Garmin Vivosmart 5 – The improved heart rate sensor makes a noticeable difference.

Pricing and Value

  • The Vivosmart 4 is often available at a lower price since it’s an older model, making it a budget-friendly choice.
  • The Vivosmart 5 is priced slightly higher but comes with better features, improved usability, and enhanced accuracy.

For those on a tight budget, the Vivosmart 4 remains a viable option. However, for those who want better accuracy, a larger screen, and improved usability, the Vivosmart 5 justifies the price increase.

Winner: Garmin Vivosmart 5 – Better features make it worth the extra cost.

Which One Should You Buy?

The Garmin Vivosmart 5 improves upon the Vivosmart 4 in several key areas, including:

  • Larger, easier-to-read display
  • More accurate heart rate monitoring
  • Interchangeable bands
  • Ability to respond to texts (Android only)
  • Enhanced safety features

If you already own a Vivosmart 4, the upgrade is worthwhile if you want a better display, improved tracking accuracy, and added smart features. However, if you’re looking for a budget-friendly fitness tracker and can tolerate a smaller screen, the Vivosmart 4 remains a solid option.

Final Verdict: If budget isn’t a concern, go with the Garmin Vivosmart 5 for a better overall experience.

Conclusion

Garmin continues to refine its Vivosmart series with each new release. The Vivosmart 5 is a clear step forward, offering a better user experience, more accurate tracking, and enhanced features while retaining the lightweight design and long battery life that made the Vivosmart 4 a favorite among users.

No matter which model you choose, Garmin delivers a reliable and feature-packed fitness tracker designed to help you stay on top of your health and fitness goals.