What To Know
- This difference in battery life is a significant factor to consider, especially for those who lead an active lifestyle and don’t want to be constantly tethered to a charger.
- Both the Garmin Vivofit 3 and the Xiaomi Mi Band 4 offer a range of fitness tracking features.
- The Mi Band 4, on the other hand, offers a more affordable option with a vibrant color display and a solid set of features.
Choosing the right fitness tracker can be a daunting task, especially with the vast array of options available. Two popular contenders in the market are the Garmin Vivofit 3 and the Xiaomi Mi Band 4. Both devices offer a range of features to help you track your activity, sleep, and even monitor your heart rate. But which one comes out on top? Let’s delve into a comprehensive comparison of the Garmin Vivofit 3 vs Xiaomi Mi Band 4 to help you make an informed decision.
Design and Display
The Garmin Vivofit 3 sports a classic, minimalist design with a rectangular display and a comfortable, adjustable band. It’s available in a variety of colors to suit your style. The display is monochrome and transflective, meaning it’s easy to read even in bright sunlight.
On the other hand, the Xiaomi Mi Band 4 boasts a vibrant, full-color AMOLED display. This makes it visually appealing and easier to navigate menus. The Mi Band 4 also features a touch-sensitive screen, allowing for more intuitive interactions. However, the Mi Band 4’s design is more streamlined, with a smaller, pill-shaped display and a sleeker band.
Battery Life
One of the key advantages of the Garmin Vivofit 3 is its exceptional battery life. It can last up to a year on a single charge, making it incredibly convenient for users who don’t want to worry about frequent recharging. The Mi Band 4, while offering a decent battery life, falls short of the Vivofit 3, lasting approximately 20 days on a single charge. This difference in battery life is a significant factor to consider, especially for those who lead an active lifestyle and don’t want to be constantly tethered to a charger.
Features and Functionality
Both the Garmin Vivofit 3 and the Xiaomi Mi Band 4 offer a range of fitness tracking features. They can track steps, distance, calories burned, and sleep patterns. Both devices also include heart rate monitoring, allowing you to gauge your cardiovascular health.
However, the Garmin Vivofit 3 goes a step further with its Move IQ feature. This feature automatically detects and classifies different activities, such as walking, running, and swimming. The Mi Band 4 lacks this automatic activity detection, requiring you to manually start and stop each activity.
Water Resistance
Both the Garmin Vivofit 3 and the Xiaomi Mi Band 4 are water-resistant, making them suitable for swimming and other water-based activities. The Vivofit 3 is rated for 5 ATM (50 meters) water resistance, while the Mi Band 4 is rated for 5 ATM (50 meters) as well. This means both devices can withstand splashes and even brief immersion in water.
Price and Value
The Garmin Vivofit 3 is generally priced higher than the Xiaomi Mi Band 4. However, the Vivofit 3’s longer battery life and advanced features may justify the higher price for some users. The Mi Band 4, on the other hand, offers a more affordable option with a vibrant color display and a solid set of features.
Which One is Right for You?
Ultimately, the best fitness tracker for you depends on your individual needs and preferences. Here’s a quick breakdown to help you decide:
Choose the Garmin Vivofit 3 if:
- You prioritize long battery life and don’t want to worry about frequent charging.
- You value automatic activity detection and detailed insights into your fitness data.
- You’re willing to pay a premium for a durable and feature-rich tracker.
Choose the Xiaomi Mi Band 4 if:
- You’re looking for an affordable fitness tracker with a vibrant color display.
- You prefer a sleeker and more stylish design.
- You don’t mind charging your device every couple of weeks.
Beyond the Basics: Additional Considerations
While the Garmin Vivofit 3 and Xiaomi Mi Band 4 are both solid fitness trackers, it’s important to consider some additional factors that might influence your decision.
- Smartwatch Features: The Mi Band 4 offers some smartwatch features, such as notifications for calls, messages, and social media apps. The Vivofit 3, however, focuses solely on fitness tracking.
- GPS: The Vivofit 3 does not include built-in GPS, meaning you’ll need to carry your phone for accurate distance and pace tracking during outdoor activities. The Mi Band 4 also lacks built-in GPS.
- Music Control: The Mi Band 4 allows you to control music playback on your smartphone, while the Vivofit 3 does not offer this feature.
The Verdict: A Close Call
The Garmin Vivofit 3 and the Xiaomi Mi Band 4 are both excellent fitness trackers with their own strengths and weaknesses. The Vivofit 3 excels in battery life, automatic activity detection, and overall durability. The Mi Band 4, on the other hand, offers a vibrant color display, smartwatch features, and a more affordable price point. Ultimately, the best choice for you depends on your individual needs and priorities.
Top Questions Asked
Q: Can I use the Garmin Vivofit 3 or Xiaomi Mi Band 4 for swimming?
A: Yes, both devices are water-resistant up to 5 ATM (50 meters), making them suitable for swimming.
Q: Do the Garmin Vivofit 3 and Xiaomi Mi Band 4 require a smartphone to function?
A: Both devices require a smartphone to sync data and receive notifications.
Q: What is the difference between the Garmin Vivofit 3 and the Garmin Vivofit 4?
A: The Garmin Vivofit 4 is a newer model with a color display, a more advanced heart rate sensor, and a longer battery life.
Q: Can I use the Xiaomi Mi Band 4 to make payments?
A: The Mi Band 4 does not support NFC payments.
Q: Which device has a better sleep tracking feature?
A: Both devices offer sleep tracking, but the Garmin Vivofit 3 provides more detailed insights into your sleep stages.