What To Know
- Two popular contenders in the kids’ fitness tracker market are the Garmin Vivofit Jr 2 and the **Misfit Flash**.
- The device also features a built-in stopwatch and timer, allowing kids to track their performance in various activities.
- While it allows parents to track activity and set goals, it lacks the direct messaging feature found in the Vivofit Jr 2.
Choosing the right fitness tracker for your child can be a daunting task. With so many options available, it’s easy to get lost in a sea of features and functionalities. Two popular contenders in the kids’ fitness tracker market are the Garmin Vivofit Jr 2 and the **Misfit Flash**. Both devices offer a fun and engaging way to encourage physical activity, but they differ in their approach and capabilities. This comprehensive guide will delve into the key features of each tracker, helping you make an informed decision for your little one.
Design and Comfort: A Tale of Two Styles
The Garmin Vivofit Jr 2 boasts a colorful, durable design that’s built for active kids. It features a customizable band with various characters and designs, allowing kids to personalize their tracker. The bright, vibrant display is easy to read even under direct sunlight. On the other hand, the Misfit Flash takes a more minimalist approach. It’s a sleek, water-resistant tracker that comes in various colors and shapes. The Flash lacks a display, instead relying on LED lights to indicate progress and notifications. Both trackers are lightweight and comfortable to wear, making them suitable for all-day use.
Activity Tracking: Stepping Up the Game
Both the Vivofit Jr 2 and Misfit Flash excel at tracking steps and activity levels. The Vivofit Jr 2 uses an accelerometer to monitor movement and provides detailed information on steps taken, distance covered, and active minutes. It also features a built-in pedometer and a timer for tracking specific activities. The Misfit Flash, while lacking a display, accurately tracks steps and activity levels using a tri-axis accelerometer. It syncs with a smartphone app to display data and progress. Both trackers offer a fun and motivating way for kids to stay active, encouraging them to reach their daily goals.
Motivation and Engagement: Keeping Kids Motivated
The Garmin Vivofit Jr 2 goes beyond simple activity tracking by incorporating gamification elements. Kids can earn virtual coins and unlock rewards by completing challenges and staying active. The device also features a built-in stopwatch and timer, allowing kids to track their performance in various activities. The Misfit Flash, while not as feature-rich as the Vivofit Jr 2, offers a gamified experience through its smartphone app. Kids can earn badges and compete with friends, making fitness a fun and engaging experience.
Sleep Tracking: Catching Those Zzzs
The Vivofit Jr 2 includes a sleep tracking feature that monitors sleep duration and quality. It provides insights into sleep patterns, helping parents understand their child’s sleep habits. The Misfit Flash, while not specifically designed for sleep tracking, can still provide insights into sleep patterns based on movement data. However, it lacks the dedicated sleep tracking features found in the Vivofit Jr 2.
Parental Controls and Communication: Staying Connected
The Garmin Vivofit Jr 2 offers robust parental control features through its smartphone app. Parents can set daily goals, monitor activity levels, and even send messages to their child directly from the tracker. The Misfit Flash, on the other hand, relies on smartphone integration for communication and parental control. While it allows parents to track activity and set goals, it lacks the direct messaging feature found in the Vivofit Jr 2.
Battery Life: Powering Through the Day
The Garmin Vivofit Jr 2 boasts an impressive battery life of up to a year. This eliminates the need for frequent charging, making it a convenient option for busy families. The Misfit Flash, on the other hand, has a battery life of up to six months. While it requires less frequent charging than many other fitness trackers, it’s not as long-lasting as the Vivofit Jr 2.
Price and Value: Finding the Right Fit
The Garmin Vivofit Jr 2 is generally priced higher than the Misfit Flash. However, its comprehensive features, long battery life, and robust parental control capabilities make it a worthwhile investment for parents who prioritize these features. The Misfit Flash, with its lower price point and sleek design, offers a good value for budget-conscious families.
Choosing the Right Tracker: A Decision Based on Needs
Ultimately, the best fitness tracker for your child depends on your specific needs and priorities. If you’re looking for a comprehensive tracker with robust parental control features, excellent battery life, and gamification elements, the Garmin Vivofit Jr 2 is a strong contender. If you prioritize a sleek, minimalist design, a lower price point, and basic activity tracking, the Misfit Flash might be a better choice.
The Final Verdict: A Champion for Every Child
Both the Garmin Vivofit Jr 2 and Misfit Flash offer unique advantages and cater to different needs. The Vivofit Jr 2 is a feature-packed tracker designed for active kids and concerned parents, while the Misfit Flash provides a simple and stylish way to encourage physical activity. Ultimately, the best choice depends on your child’s personality, your budget, and your specific needs.
Quick Answers to Your FAQs
Q: Is the Garmin Vivofit Jr 2 waterproof?
A: Yes, the Vivofit Jr 2 is water-resistant up to 5 ATM (50 meters), making it safe for swimming and splashing.
Q: What age is the Misfit Flash suitable for?
A: The Misfit Flash is recommended for children aged 8 years and older.
Q: Can I use the Misfit Flash with an Android phone?
A: Yes, the Misfit Flash is compatible with both Android and iOS devices.
Q: What are the different colors and designs available for the Garmin Vivofit Jr 2?
A: The Garmin Vivofit Jr 2 comes in a variety of colors and designs featuring popular characters like Disney Princesses, Marvel superheroes, and Star Wars characters.
Q: Does the Misfit Flash have a display?
A: No, the Misfit Flash does not have a display. It uses LED lights to indicate progress and notifications.