What To Know
- The Garmin Vivofit HR Plus, on the other hand, adopts a more traditional wristwatch aesthetic, with a color display and a slightly bulkier design.
- The Fitbit Charge 2 boasts an impressive battery life of up to 5 days, while the Garmin Vivofit HR Plus can last for up to a year, thanks to its use of a replaceable coin cell battery.
- While the price can vary depending on retailers and promotions, the Charge 2 typically falls in the $100-$150 range, while the Vivofit HR Plus can cost around $150-$200.
Choosing the right fitness tracker can be a daunting task, especially with the plethora of options available in the market. Two popular contenders that often come up in discussions are the Fitbit Charge 2 and the Garmin Vivofit HR Plus. Both devices offer a range of features to help you track your activity, sleep, and heart rate, but they also have their own unique strengths and weaknesses.
This comprehensive comparison will delve into the key aspects of both trackers, helping you make an informed decision based on your individual needs and preferences.
Design and Comfort
The Fitbit Charge 2 boasts a sleek, minimalist design, featuring a touchscreen OLED display and a comfortable, adjustable band. The device is available in a variety of color options, allowing you to choose a style that suits your personality. The Garmin Vivofit HR Plus, on the other hand, adopts a more traditional wristwatch aesthetic, with a color display and a slightly bulkier design. While it may not be as stylish as the Charge 2, the Vivofit HR Plus offers a more robust and durable build.
Both trackers are comfortable to wear for extended periods, but the Charge 2 might be a better choice for individuals seeking a more discreet and lightweight option.
Activity Tracking and Features
Both the Fitbit Charge 2 and the Garmin Vivofit HR Plus excel in activity tracking. They accurately monitor steps, distance, calories burned, and active minutes, providing you with a comprehensive view of your daily movement.
However, the Charge 2 offers a wider range of features, including:
- Automatic Exercise Recognition: The Charge 2 automatically detects and records workouts like running, swimming, and biking, eliminating the need for manual tracking.
- Connected GPS: When paired with your smartphone, the Charge 2 leverages GPS to provide accurate distance and pace tracking during outdoor activities.
- Sleep Stages Tracking: The Charge 2 goes beyond simply measuring sleep duration, providing insights into your sleep stages (light, deep, and REM).
- Heart Rate Variability (HRV): This feature allows you to monitor your heart rate variability, which can be a useful indicator of stress levels and overall health.
The Garmin Vivofit HR Plus focuses on basic activity tracking and includes features like:
- Move Bar: The device encourages you to stay active throughout the day with a move bar that fills up as you move.
- Sleep Monitoring: The Vivofit HR Plus monitors your sleep duration and quality.
- Heart Rate Monitoring: It continuously tracks your heart rate, providing insights into your cardiovascular health.
Battery Life
Battery life is a crucial consideration for fitness trackers, as you don’t want to be constantly charging your device. The Fitbit Charge 2 boasts an impressive battery life of up to 5 days, while the Garmin Vivofit HR Plus can last for up to a year, thanks to its use of a replaceable coin cell battery.
While the Vivofit HR Plus offers significantly longer battery life, the Charge 2 provides more versatility with its ability to track different activities and provide more detailed insights.
Smartphone Compatibility and App Experience
Both the Fitbit Charge 2 and the Garmin Vivofit HR Plus are compatible with both Android and iOS devices. The Fitbit app is known for its user-friendly interface and comprehensive data visualization, while the Garmin Connect app offers a more detailed and customizable experience.
The Fitbit app provides a wide range of features, including:
- Social Features: Connect with friends and family, share your progress, and participate in challenges.
- Personalized Insights: The app provides personalized recommendations and insights based on your data.
- Goal Setting: Set specific goals for your activity, weight, and sleep.
The Garmin Connect app offers:
- Advanced Data Analysis: Access detailed metrics and insights into your performance.
- Customizable Data Fields: Create personalized data screens to display the information you need.
- Training Plans: Access guided training plans tailored to your fitness goals.
Price and Value
The Fitbit Charge 2 is generally more affordable than the Garmin Vivofit HR Plus. While the price can vary depending on retailers and promotions, the Charge 2 typically falls in the $100-$150 range, while the Vivofit HR Plus can cost around $150-$200.
Considering the features and functionality offered by both devices, the Charge 2 provides excellent value for money, especially if you’re looking for a feature-rich tracker at a more affordable price point.
Who Should Choose the Fitbit Charge 2?
The Fitbit Charge 2 is an excellent choice for individuals who are looking for a stylish and feature-rich fitness tracker with a long battery life. It’s perfect for those who enjoy tracking their activity, sleep, and heart rate, and want access to advanced features like automatic exercise recognition, connected GPS, and sleep stage tracking.
Who Should Choose the Garmin Vivofit HR Plus?
The Garmin Vivofit HR Plus is a solid option for individuals who prioritize battery life and a robust, durable design. Its long battery life and simple interface make it a good choice for those who want a low-maintenance fitness tracker that provides basic activity and heart rate tracking.
Final Thoughts: Fitbit Charge 2 vs Garmin Vivofit HR Plus – Which is Right for You?
Choosing between the Fitbit Charge 2 and the Garmin Vivofit HR Plus ultimately comes down to your individual needs and preferences. The Fitbit Charge 2 offers a more versatile and feature-rich experience, while the Garmin Vivofit HR Plus provides exceptional battery life and a robust design.
If you’re looking for a feature-packed tracker with a wide range of capabilities, the Charge 2 is a great choice. However, if you prioritize battery life and a simple, no-frills tracker, the Vivofit HR Plus might be a better fit.
Common Questions and Answers
Q: Does the Fitbit Charge 2 have GPS?
A: The Fitbit Charge 2 does not have built-in GPS. It uses connected GPS, meaning it relies on your smartphone’s GPS to track your location and provide accurate distance and pace data during outdoor activities.
Q: Can I swim with the Garmin Vivofit HR Plus?
A: The Garmin Vivofit HR Plus is water-resistant up to 5 ATM (50 meters) and can be worn for swimming, but it does not have dedicated swim tracking features.
Q: Is the Fitbit Charge 2 compatible with Android phones?
A: Yes, the Fitbit Charge 2 is compatible with both Android and iOS devices.
Q: How long does the Vivofit HR Plus battery last?
A: The Garmin Vivofit HR Plus has a battery life of up to one year, thanks to its replaceable coin cell battery.
Q: Can I customize the watch faces on the Garmin Vivofit HR Plus?
A: Yes, the Garmin Vivofit HR Plus allows you to customize the watch face with different colors and designs.