Garmin Vivofit vs Garmin Vivosport Large: 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 in the Garmin lineup are the Vivofit and the Vivosport, both offering a range of features to track your fitness journey. However, deciding between the Garmin Vivofit vs Garmin Vivosport Large can be tricky, particularly when considering the size difference.
This comprehensive guide will dive deep into the features, pros, and cons of each tracker, helping you make an informed decision based on your specific needs and preferences.

Understanding the Basics: Vivofit vs Vivosport

Both the Vivofit and Vivosport are activity trackers designed to monitor your steps, distance, calories burned, and sleep patterns. While they share some common functionalities, they differ in terms of design, features, and overall capabilities.
Garmin Vivofit: Known for its sleek, minimalist design and long battery life, the Vivofit is a reliable choice for those seeking a simple and affordable tracker. It’s primarily focused on basic activity tracking and sleep monitoring, with a color display that shows you your progress and encourages you to stay active.
Garmin Vivosport: The Vivosport is a more advanced tracker that offers a larger screen, heart rate monitoring, and more detailed metrics like workout tracking and stress level assessment. It caters to those who want a more comprehensive fitness experience and are willing to invest in a more feature-rich device.

Size Matters: The Vivofit vs Vivosport Large Debate

The Vivosport comes in two sizes: regular and large. The large size is specifically designed for individuals with larger wrists, offering a more comfortable fit and better visibility of the display.
While the Vivofit doesn’t have different size options, its compact design generally fits most wrist sizes comfortably. So, if you have a larger wrist and prefer a tracker that sits comfortably without feeling too small, the Vivosport Large would be a better choice.

Feature Comparison: A Head-to-Head Analysis

Let’s delve deeper into the key features of each tracker to understand their strengths and limitations.
Garmin Vivofit:

• Pros:
• Long battery life (up to 1 year)
• Simple and easy to use
• Affordable price point
• Water-resistant (5 ATM)
• Move bar encourages movement throughout the day
• Cons:
• Basic activity tracking features
• No heart rate monitoring
• Limited display capabilities
• No GPS functionality

Garmin Vivosport:

• Pros:
• Heart rate monitoring
• Detailed workout tracking
• GPS functionality (only in the Vivosport with GPS version)
• Stress level tracking
• Color touchscreen display
• Water-resistant (5 ATM)
• Cons:
• Shorter battery life (up to 7 days)
• Higher price point
• Can be bulky for some users

Choosing the Right Tracker: Your Fitness Needs Matter

Ultimately, the best choice between the Vivofit and Vivosport Large depends on your individual fitness goals and preferences.
Choose the Vivofit if you:

• Are looking for a simple and affordable tracker
• Prioritize long battery life
• Primarily focus on basic activity tracking and sleep monitoring
• Prefer a compact and minimalist design

Choose the Vivosport Large if you:

• Want a more comprehensive fitness tracker with advanced features
• Need heart rate monitoring and workout tracking
• Prefer a larger display for better visibility
• Value GPS functionality for outdoor activities
• Are comfortable with a slightly bulkier design

Beyond the Basics: Additional Considerations

Beyond the core features, there are other factors to consider when making your decision.

• Design and Aesthetics: The Vivofit offers a sleek and minimalist design, while the Vivosport Large has a more sporty and modern look. Consider which style aligns better with your personal preferences.
• Comfort and Fit: The Vivosport Large is specifically designed for larger wrists, ensuring a comfortable fit. If you have a smaller wrist, the Vivofit might be a better option.
• Compatibility and App Integration: Both trackers are compatible with the Garmin Connect app, which allows you to track your progress, set goals, and connect with other users.

The Final Verdict: Which Tracker Wins?

Both the Garmin Vivofit and Garmin Vivosport Large offer valuable features for fitness enthusiasts. The Vivofit excels in simplicity, affordability, and long battery life, while the Vivosport Large provides a more comprehensive experience with heart rate monitoring, workout tracking, and GPS functionality.
The choice ultimately comes down to your individual needs and budget. If you’re looking for a basic and budget-friendly tracker, the Vivofit is a solid option. However, if you need a more advanced device with a wider range of features, the Vivosport Large is the clear winner.

Frequently Discussed Topics

Q: Can I use the Vivosport Large for swimming?
A: Yes, both the Vivofit and Vivosport Large are water-resistant up to 5 ATM, making them suitable for swimming in shallow water.
Q: Does the Vivofit have a built-in heart rate monitor?
A: No, the Vivofit does not have a built-in heart rate monitor. You’ll need to purchase a separate chest strap heart rate monitor if you want to track your heart rate.
Q: Is the Vivosport Large compatible with Android and iOS devices?
A: Yes, both the Vivofit and Vivosport Large are compatible with Android and iOS devices. You can download the Garmin Connect app for free on your smartphone.
Q: Can I customize the watch faces on the Vivofit and Vivosport Large?
A: Yes, both trackers allow you to customize the watch faces with different designs and colors.
Q: Which tracker is better for tracking sleep?
A: Both trackers offer sleep tracking capabilities, but the Vivosport Large provides more detailed sleep insights, including REM sleep and light sleep stages.