What To Know
- The Garmin Vivofit 2, on the other hand, takes a more minimalist approach with a small, rectangular display and a customizable band.
- The Surge is a feature-packed device that caters to serious fitness enthusiasts, while the Vivofit 2 is a more affordable and user-friendly option for casual fitness trackers.
- Whether you opt for the feature-rich Fitbit Surge or the budget-friendly Garmin Vivofit 2, remember that the key to achieving your fitness goals is consistency and dedication.
Choosing the right fitness tracker can be a daunting task, especially when faced with a plethora of options available in the market. Two popular contenders in the fitness tracker arena are the Fitbit Surge and the Garmin Vivofit 2. Both devices offer a comprehensive suite of features to help you track your fitness journey, but they cater to different needs and preferences. This blog post will delve into a detailed comparison of the Fitbit Surge vs Garmin Vivofit 2, highlighting their strengths and weaknesses to help you make an informed decision.
Design and Comfort
The Fitbit Surge boasts a sleek and stylish design, featuring a large, vibrant color touchscreen that’s easy to navigate. Its square shape and comfortable wristband make it suitable for both men and women. The Garmin Vivofit 2, on the other hand, takes a more minimalist approach with a small, rectangular display and a customizable band. While it might not be as visually appealing as the Surge, the Vivofit 2 is surprisingly comfortable to wear, even during sleep.
Activity Tracking and Features
Both trackers excel in activity tracking, recording steps, distance, calories burned, and active minutes. However, the Surge offers more advanced features, including GPS tracking for accurate distance measurement during outdoor workouts and heart rate monitoring for a more comprehensive view of your fitness progress. The Vivofit 2, while lacking GPS and heart rate tracking, compensates with its impressive battery life, lasting up to a year on a single charge.
Sleep Monitoring
The Fitbit Surge and Garmin Vivofit 2 both monitor your sleep patterns, tracking sleep duration, quality, and REM cycles. The Surge provides detailed insights into your sleep stages, while the Vivofit 2 offers a simpler sleep score and movement detection during sleep.
Smartphone Integration and Notifications
Both trackers seamlessly integrate with your smartphone, allowing you to receive call, text, and app notifications on your wrist. The Surge offers more comprehensive smartphone integration, allowing you to control music playback and receive calendar reminders. The Vivofit 2 focuses on basic notifications and doesn’t offer any additional features.
Price and Value
The Fitbit Surge was a premium fitness tracker when it was released, but it’s now been discontinued and is often available at discounted prices. The Garmin Vivofit 2, while less feature-rich, is still a popular choice due to its affordable price and long battery life.
Which Tracker is Right for You?
Ultimately, the best fitness tracker for you depends on your individual needs and preferences. Here’s a breakdown to help you decide:
Choose the Fitbit Surge if:
- You prioritize advanced activity tracking features like GPS and heart rate monitoring.
- You want a stylish and comfortable tracker with a large touchscreen.
- You’re willing to pay a premium for a feature-rich device.
Choose the Garmin Vivofit 2 if:
- You’re looking for a budget-friendly option with long battery life.
- You prioritize simplicity and don’t need advanced features like GPS or heart rate tracking.
- You want a comfortable tracker that can be worn 24/7.
The Verdict: A Tale of Two Trackers
The Fitbit Surge and Garmin Vivofit 2 are both excellent fitness trackers, albeit with different strengths and weaknesses. The Surge is a feature-packed device that caters to serious fitness enthusiasts, while the Vivofit 2 is a more affordable and user-friendly option for casual fitness trackers. The best choice ultimately depends on your individual needs and priorities.
Finding Your Perfect Fitness Companion
Choosing the right fitness tracker is a personal decision. Consider your budget, desired features, and lifestyle to determine which tracker best suits your needs. Whether you opt for the feature-rich Fitbit Surge or the budget-friendly Garmin Vivofit 2, remember that the key to achieving your fitness goals is consistency and dedication.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Does the Fitbit Surge have GPS?
A: Yes, the Fitbit Surge features built-in GPS for accurate distance measurement during outdoor workouts.
Q: How long does the Garmin Vivofit 2 battery last?
A: The Garmin Vivofit 2 boasts an impressive battery life of up to a year on a single charge.
Q: Can I use the Fitbit Surge for swimming?
A: The Fitbit Surge is water-resistant up to 50 meters and can be used for swimming, but it doesn’t offer dedicated swim tracking features.
Q: Does the Garmin Vivofit 2 track sleep?
A: Yes, the Garmin Vivofit 2 tracks your sleep duration, quality, and movement during sleep.
Q: Which tracker is better for beginners?
A: The Garmin Vivofit 2 is a great choice for beginners due to its simplicity, long battery life, and affordable price.