What To Know
- The Withings Steel, on the other hand, embraces a more minimalist aesthetic with a classic watch design and a stainless steel or black PVD finish.
- It can last for up to a year on a single charge, making it a worry-free companion for your fitness journey.
- However, if you prefer a stylish and minimalist design with a focus on basic fitness metrics, the Withings Steel might be a better fit.
Choosing the right fitness tracker can be a daunting task, especially with so many options available. Two popular contenders in the market are the Garmin Vivofit 2 and the Withings Steel. Both devices offer a sleek design and essential fitness tracking features, but they differ in their functionalities and target audience. This comprehensive comparison will help you determine which tracker best suits your needs and preferences.
Design and Comfort
The Garmin Vivofit 2 boasts a vibrant, colorful display with a customizable watch face. Its lightweight design and comfortable silicone band make it ideal for all-day wear, even during workouts. The Withings Steel, on the other hand, embraces a more minimalist aesthetic with a classic watch design and a stainless steel or black PVD finish. Its leather or metal bands offer a sophisticated look but may feel less comfortable for extended wear during intense activities.
Battery Life
One of the Vivofit 2’s key advantages lies in its remarkable battery life. It can last for up to a year on a single charge, making it a worry-free companion for your fitness journey. The Withings Steel, while stylish, falls short in this department, offering a battery life of up to 8 months. While this is still respectable, it requires more frequent charging compared to the Vivofit 2.
Activity Tracking
Both trackers excel in tracking basic activities like steps, distance, calories burned, and sleep patterns. The Vivofit 2 goes a step further by incorporating a built-in Move Bar that motivates you to stay active throughout the day. This feature encourages you to move every hour to reach your daily activity goal. The Withings Steel focuses on simplicity, providing a clear overview of your progress without overwhelming you with data.
Sleep Monitoring
The Vivofit 2 provides detailed sleep tracking data, including time spent in light, deep, and REM sleep stages. This information can be invaluable for understanding your sleep quality and identifying potential areas for improvement. The Withings Steel also monitors your sleep duration and quality, but its data is less granular compared to the Vivofit 2.
Advanced Features
The Vivofit 2 offers additional features like automatic activity detection, which recognizes different types of workouts and tracks their duration and intensity. It also allows you to set custom goals and receive personalized reminders to stay on track. The Withings Steel focuses on simplicity and does not offer advanced features like activity detection or goal setting.
Water Resistance
Both trackers are water-resistant, allowing you to wear them while swimming or showering. The Vivofit 2 is rated at 5 ATM (50 meters), while the Withings Steel boasts a 5 ATM (50 meters) water resistance rating as well.
Integration and Compatibility
The Vivofit 2 seamlessly integrates with the Garmin Connect app, offering a comprehensive platform for analyzing your data, setting goals, and connecting with friends. The app allows you to track your progress, view detailed metrics, and customize your tracker’s settings. The Withings Steel pairs with the Health Mate app, which provides similar functionalities but with a slightly different user interface. Both apps are compatible with iOS and Android devices.
Price and Value
The Garmin Vivofit 2 is generally more affordable than the Withings Steel. Its lower price point makes it an attractive option for budget-conscious individuals. The Withings Steel, while more expensive, offers a premium design and a more minimalist approach to fitness tracking.
Decision Time: Which Tracker is Right for You?
The choice between the Garmin Vivofit 2 and the Withings Steel ultimately depends on your individual needs and preferences. If you prioritize long battery life, comprehensive activity tracking, and advanced features, the Vivofit 2 is a solid choice. However, if you prefer a stylish and minimalist design with a focus on basic fitness metrics, the Withings Steel might be a better fit.
The Verdict: A Balanced Approach to Fitness Tracking
Both the Garmin Vivofit 2 and the Withings Steel offer a balanced approach to fitness tracking, providing essential metrics without overwhelming you with data. The Vivofit 2 excels in battery life, activity tracking, and advanced features, while the Withings Steel stands out with its sleek design and simplicity. Ultimately, the best tracker for you depends on your personal priorities and budget.
Questions We Hear a Lot
Q: Which tracker is better for tracking sleep?
A: The Garmin Vivofit 2 provides more detailed sleep data, including time spent in light, deep, and REM sleep stages, making it a better choice for those seeking in-depth sleep analysis.
Q: Can I use either tracker for swimming?
A: Both the Garmin Vivofit 2 and the Withings Steel are water-resistant and can be worn while swimming or showering.
Q: Which tracker offers more customization options?
A: The Garmin Vivofit 2 allows you to customize watch faces, set custom goals, and receive personalized reminders, offering more customization options compared to the Withings Steel.
Q: Which tracker is more stylish?
A: The Withings Steel boasts a more stylish and minimalist design with a classic watch aesthetic, making it a better choice for those who prioritize fashion.
Q: Which tracker is better for beginners?
A: Both trackers are suitable for beginners, but the Withings Steel‘s simplicity and intuitive interface may be more appealing to those new to fitness tracking.