What To Know
- The Misfit Flash takes it a step further, offering a battery life of up to six months, making it a truly low-maintenance option.
- The Garmin Vivofit 2 includes a built-in stopwatch and timer, while the Misfit Flash features a silent alarm and the ability to control music playback on your smartphone.
- If you prioritize long battery life, a larger display with more information, and a traditional wristband design, the Garmin Vivofit 2 is a solid choice.
Choosing the right fitness tracker can be a daunting task, with countless options vying for your attention. If you’re looking for a reliable and affordable tracker to monitor your activity and sleep, the Garmin Vivofit 2 and the Misfit Flash are two popular contenders. But which one comes out on top? This comprehensive comparison will delve into the key features, pros, and cons of each device, helping you decide which one best suits your needs.
Design and Comfort
The Garmin Vivofit 2 boasts a larger, more traditional wristband design, featuring a monochrome LCD display that shows time, steps, distance, calories burned, and sleep data. It’s comfortable to wear and available in a variety of colors and band sizes. The Misfit Flash, on the other hand, takes a more minimalist approach. This tiny, coin-shaped tracker can be worn on a wristband, clipped to clothing, or even attached to a shoe. Its minimalist design makes it discreet and comfortable for all-day wear.
Activity Tracking
Both trackers excel in activity tracking. The Garmin Vivofit 2 uses an accelerometer to monitor steps, distance, and calories burned. It also features a Move Bar that encourages you to stay active throughout the day. The Misfit Flash also utilizes an accelerometer for activity tracking, offering similar features to the Vivofit 2. Both devices provide accurate data on your daily movement, helping you stay motivated and on track with your fitness goals.
Sleep Monitoring
Sleep monitoring is another area where both trackers shine. The Garmin Vivofit 2 tracks your sleep duration and quality, providing insights into your sleep patterns. The Misfit Flash similarly monitors your sleep, offering insights into your sleep duration and wake-up times. While neither tracker provides detailed sleep stage analysis (REM, light, deep), they offer a good overview of your sleep habits.
Battery Life
One of the key advantages of both the Garmin Vivofit 2 and the Misfit Flash is their impressive battery life. The Garmin Vivofit 2 boasts a battery life of up to a year, eliminating the need for frequent charging. The Misfit Flash takes it a step further, offering a battery life of up to six months, making it a truly low-maintenance option.
Additional Features
While both trackers focus on the basics of activity and sleep tracking, they offer some additional features. The Garmin Vivofit 2 includes a built-in stopwatch and timer, while the Misfit Flash features a silent alarm and the ability to control music playback on your smartphone.
Pricing and Availability
The Garmin Vivofit 2 is generally priced higher than the Misfit Flash. However, its longer battery life and more comprehensive features may justify the price difference for some users. The Misfit Flash, on the other hand, offers a more affordable option for those looking for a simple and effective tracker.
Garmin Vivofit 2 Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Longer battery life (up to one year)
- Larger display with more information
- Move Bar encourages movement throughout the day
- Built-in stopwatch and timer
- Available in a variety of colors and band sizes
Cons:
- Higher price point
- Limited smartphone connectivity
- No heart rate tracking
Misfit Flash Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Extremely long battery life (up to six months)
- Small and lightweight design
- Versatile wearing options (wristband, clip, shoe)
- Affordable price
- Silent alarm and music control features
Cons:
- Small, monochrome display
- Limited data insights compared to the Vivofit 2
- No heart rate tracking
Which Tracker is Right for You?
The choice between the Garmin Vivofit 2 and the Misfit Flash ultimately depends on your individual needs and preferences.
Here’s a breakdown of who might prefer each tracker:
- Garmin Vivofit 2: If you prioritize long battery life, a larger display with more information, and a traditional wristband design, the Garmin Vivofit 2 is a solid choice.
- Misfit Flash: If you value affordability, a small and discreet design, and an extremely long battery life, the Misfit Flash is a great option.
The Verdict: A Tie?
Both the Garmin Vivofit 2 and the Misfit Flash are excellent fitness trackers in their own right. The Garmin Vivofit 2 offers a more comprehensive feature set and longer battery life, while the Misfit Flash excels in affordability, design, and battery longevity. Ultimately, the “best” tracker for you depends on your individual needs and priorities.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I use the Garmin Vivofit 2 or Misfit Flash for swimming?
A: Neither the Garmin Vivofit 2 nor the Misfit Flash is waterproof enough for swimming.
Q: Do either of these trackers track heart rate?
A: No, neither the Garmin Vivofit 2 nor the Misfit Flash includes heart rate tracking.
Q: Can I use these trackers with my smartphone?
A: Both trackers can be synced with your smartphone via Bluetooth. The Garmin Vivofit 2 utilizes the Garmin Connect app, while the Misfit Flash utilizes the Misfit app.
Q: Are there any other fitness trackers I should consider?
A: Yes, there are many other fitness trackers available on the market, such as the Fitbit Inspire HR, the Xiaomi Mi Band 5, and the Samsung Galaxy Fit 2.
Q: How do I choose the right fitness tracker for me?
A: Consider your budget, desired features (activity tracking, sleep monitoring, heart rate tracking), design preferences, and battery life requirements.