Comments on: Fitbit Charge 3 vs Garmin Vivosmart 4: the battle of the fitness bands

By: Marko Maslakovic

Marko Maslakovic — Fri, 01 Feb 2019 09:14:18 +0000

Thanks – just checked the Garmin technical specs page. https://buy.garmin.com/en-GB/GB/p/605739#specs

and here: https://www.thisisant.com/directory/vivosmart-4

It is ant+ compatible but as you quite rightly say – only for sending data, not reading. You may have tried already but perhaps tightening the strap might help with high-intensity readings.

By: Spencer Walden

Spencer Walden — Fri, 01 Feb 2019 01:26:42 +0000

Vivosmart 4 is not ant + comparable. It can only send heart rate not receive from a chest strap.

Unfortunately this cripples it’s use for anything above 120 HR.

By: Rick Moncello

Rick Moncello — Wed, 24 Oct 2018 14:09:22 +0000

Seems like a very good, complete, comparison of the two. I’ve had the Charge 3 for about 2 weeks now. Charged it first day (as updates/install requires it to be on the charger) and the next charge was 9 days later — with 16% remaining.)

Disappointed that the Sp02 sensor isn’t used. I truly hope that the software update coming “by end of year” will work similarly to Garmin’s. There’s a big PLUS for the Garmin, at this point.

The pluses for the Charge 3 are: Interchangeable bands and larger display. For me, connected GPS is not that important, but a great “nice-2-have.”

I’m a larger sized guy. I’d say the size is appropriate on my arm: Not too big, not too small. It’s VERY light to the point that it’s easy to forget you have it on. I purchased the all black one.

By: wekebu

wekebu — Mon, 01 Oct 2018 17:02:15 +0000

In reply to John Simpson. I have the Charge 3 on preorder, but I've since found out that it isn't compatible with my Pixel 2 XL. I'm still going to try it, but the Vivosmart 4 looks like a great alternative.

By: John Simpson

John Simpson — Sun, 30 Sep 2018 10:01:40 +0000

Charge 3 is a clear winner – to omit GPS is a ridiculous decision on a fitness tracker.