Garmin Vivosport Large vs Polar A370: Which Fitness Tracker Reigns Supreme?

Choosing the right fitness tracker can be a daunting task, especially when faced with a plethora of options. Two popular contenders that often come up in the conversation are the Garmin Vivofit 4 Large and the **Polar A370**. Both devices offer a range of fitness tracking features, but they cater to different needs and preferences. This comprehensive comparison will delve into the key differences between these two trackers, helping you make an informed decision based on your individual fitness goals and lifestyle.

Design and Comfort

The Garmin Vivofit 4 Large boasts a comfortable and durable design. Its large, customizable display is easy to read, even in direct sunlight. The tracker is lightweight and comes with a comfortable silicone band that can be easily adjusted for a secure fit. The Polar A370, on the other hand, features a sleek and stylish design with a vibrant color touchscreen. It’s slightly larger than the Vivofit 4 and may not be as comfortable for smaller wrists. Both trackers are water-resistant, allowing you to wear them during workouts and daily activities.

Activity and Sleep Tracking

Both the Garmin Vivofit 4 Large and the Polar A370 excel in activity tracking. They accurately monitor steps, distance, calories burned, and active minutes. Both trackers also offer sleep tracking features, providing insights into your sleep patterns and duration. The Vivofit 4 stands out with its Move Bar, which encourages you to stay active throughout the day by reminding you to move every hour. The A370, however, provides more detailed sleep stage analysis, including light, deep, and REM sleep.

Heart Rate Monitoring

Heart rate monitoring is a crucial feature for fitness enthusiasts. The Vivofit 4 Large utilizes optical heart rate technology, which measures your heart rate directly from your wrist. While accurate for most activities, it may not be as reliable during intense workouts. The Polar A370, known for its expertise in heart rate monitoring, also employs optical heart rate technology but boasts greater accuracy and consistency, especially during high-intensity exercises.

GPS and Workout Tracking

The Garmin Vivofit 4 Large does not include built-in GPS, limiting its ability to track outdoor workouts accurately. You’ll need to pair it with a smartphone to access GPS data. The Polar A370, on the other hand, integrates GPS, allowing you to track your outdoor runs, walks, and bike rides with precision. It also provides detailed workout metrics such as pace, distance, and elevation gain.

Smartphone Connectivity and Features

Both trackers seamlessly connect to your smartphone via Bluetooth. They allow you to receive notifications, control music playback, and access additional features through their respective apps. The Garmin Connect app offers a comprehensive platform for analyzing your fitness data, setting goals, and participating in challenges. The Polar Flow app provides similar features with a focus on personalized training plans and guidance.

Battery Life

The Garmin Vivofit 4 Large boasts an impressive battery life of up to a year, making it a great choice for those who prefer minimal charging. The Polar A370, however, has a shorter battery life of around 4-5 days, requiring more frequent charging.

Price and Value

The Garmin Vivofit 4 Large is generally more affordable than the Polar A370. While the Vivofit 4 offers a solid set of features at an attractive price point, the Polar A370 provides more advanced features, especially for those focused on heart rate monitoring and GPS tracking.

Deciding the Winner: Which Tracker is Right for You?

Ultimately, the best fitness tracker for you depends on your individual needs and priorities. Here’s a breakdown to help you decide:
Choose the Garmin Vivofit 4 Large if:

• You’re looking for a budget-friendly and comfortable tracker with long battery life.
• You primarily focus on steps, activity, and sleep tracking.
• You don’t require GPS for outdoor workouts.

Choose the Polar A370 if:

• You prioritize accurate heart rate monitoring and GPS tracking.
• You’re interested in personalized training plans and guidance.
• You’re comfortable with a shorter battery life.

Beyond the Basics: Exploring Additional Features

Both the Garmin Vivofit 4 Large and Polar A370 offer additional features that enhance their functionality:

• Garmin Vivofit 4 Large: Offers customizable watch faces, a built-in timer, and the option to connect with other Garmin devices.
• Polar A370: Includes advanced sleep analysis, personalized training programs, and compatibility with Polar’s H10 heart rate sensor for even greater accuracy.

Final Thoughts: Embracing Your Fitness Journey

Whether you choose the Garmin Vivofit 4 Large or the Polar A370, both trackers provide valuable tools to support your fitness journey. By understanding their strengths and weaknesses, you can make an informed decision that aligns with your goals and preferences. Remember, the most important factor is choosing a tracker that motivates you to stay active and achieve your fitness aspirations.

What You Need to Learn

Q: Does the Garmin Vivofit 4 Large have a color display?
A: No, the Garmin Vivofit 4 Large features a monochrome display. The Polar A370 has a color touchscreen.
Q: Can I use the Polar A370 for swimming?
A: The Polar A370 is water-resistant up to 5 ATM (50 meters), making it suitable for swimming. However, it’s not designed for intense swimming activities like competitive swimming.
Q: Can I use both trackers with a smartphone?
A: Yes, both the Garmin Vivofit 4 Large and Polar A370 are compatible with both Android and iOS devices.
Q: Which tracker offers more advanced sleep tracking features?
A: The Polar A370 provides more detailed sleep stage analysis, including light, deep, and REM sleep.
Q: Which tracker is better for tracking outdoor workouts?
A: The Polar A370 has built-in GPS, making it ideal for tracking outdoor activities like running, walking, and cycling. The Garmin Vivofit 4 Large requires a smartphone for GPS functionality.