Fitbit vs Garmin Head-to-Head Match: The Best of Both Worlds

If you’re looking for the best when it comes to wearable devices, then Fitbit or Garmin are the way to go. These 2 brands are tops in their field, which is what makes choosing between their products so hard. They both have so many quality devices to offer that it can be impossible for shoppers to compare them and figure out which one is best for them. That is why we created this Fitbit vs Garmin review. We will give you an in-depth analysis of their companies and top-selling devices to make choosing so easy the only thing you’ll need to decide is cash or charge?

Buy FitBit

Fitbit Company Overview

Fitbit is a California based company that is known for their innovative, stylish fitness trackers that everyone can afford. Started in 2007 the company is dedicated to providing products that get people moving and healthy, an objective they have more than succeeded at. From simple to advanced, each of their devices has something for shoppers, regardless of lifestyle or budget. They are accessible, affordable, and advanced, with each new model offering the newest technology.

Their first product, the Fitbit Tracker, was introduced in 2009 and although it was simple in design, it was a huge success thanks to its capabilities and performance. Now, Fitbit has a full line of devices, including the Zip, One, Flex, Charge, Charge HR and Surge. Each one has built on the company’s success, making them tops in the industry and among consumers.

Garmin Overview

The name Garmin is synonymous with elite, high-tech gadgetry, as they have been the leading producers of consumer, aviation, outdoor and fitness technologies since 1989. In their early years they were primarily known for their GPS units, with the US Army being their first customer. Eventually, they took their GPS technology and applied it to wearable fitness products, creating a new industry standard of how these devices could and should perform.

Today, Garmin’s line is a unique blend of GPS trackers with smartwatch capabilities, giving you products that get you healthy while keep you on the cutting edge of technology. Their line includes the Vivofit, Vivofit2, Vivosmart and the Vivoactive.

Fitbit vs Garmin: A Side-By-Side Comparison.

Now that you know what each company is about, it’s time to take a side-by-side comparison of their products in key categories to see what each has to offer. All of these devices monitor pace, distance elevation and calories burned, so it is the differences in the other areas that will matter:

Fitbit Surge vs Garmin Vivoactive

The Surge and Vivoactive are the 2 top devices when it comes to trackers, so choosing between them will come down to a matter of preference.Looking at both devices, they are quite similar in terms of appearance and function. Each is made with a durable polymer band that is adjustable and displays that show time, stats, smart notifications and more. They both are also GPS equipped, allowing users to track distance, pace and more in a variety of sports, as well as map new routes to challenge themselves further.

In addition, the Surge and Vivoactive both provide continuous monitoring and have batteries that can last up to a week when GPS is not being used.However, there are a few different features that will appeal to different users. To start, the Vivoactive has a high-resolution display that is crystal clear in the brightest light. The Surge has a sharp LED display, but for users who spend a lot of time outdoors the Vivoactive would be the better choice.

The Vivoactive is also a full ounce lighter than the Surge, making it a bit more comfortable to wear.On the other hand, the Surge has heart-rate monitoring- the Vivoactive doesn’t. So buyers who have health concerns or athletes who are training may want to pick the Surge. Finally, these 2 devices differ in price, with the Vivooactive costing about $20 less, so depending on what you need, either device could work for you.

Fitbit Charge HR vs Vivosmart

If you are looking for a powerful tracker at a great price than these 2 devices are your best options.The Charge HR is the more expensive of the 2 at $149, but since it comes with heart rate monitoring that is actually a bargain price. It has a durable polymer band and a clear OLED display to tell you stats, text notifications, incoming calls and more to make using it super easy. It will also monitor and analyze your sleep cycles, sync to your phone and can last up to 7 days, making it a great investment for health-conscious individuals.

The Vivosmart, at $99, does not have heart-rate monitoring, but is packed with so many unique features it is a steal at this price.To start, it is made with a touchscreen band- just double tap it and a hidden OLED display appears showing all your stats when you swipe. This makes the device not only appear like a sleek piece of jewelry, but makes it feel much lighter on your wrist. It also has built-in sensors that can be used with separate heart-rate or bike sensor monitors for an enhanced experience.Both devices give users a well-rounded range of features, so choice is more a matter of lifestyle needs than anything else.

Fitbit Charge vs VivoFit 2

The Charge and Vivofit 2 are compact, stylish devices that are a great fit for anyone looking for trackers that are easy to use and understand.The Charge may not have all the bells and whistles of some of the other Fitbit devices, but it is just as impressive thanks to enhanced features. The OLED display shows time and workout stats, keeping you focused on your exercise regimen. It also can notify you of an incoming call, so you are always in reach no matter where you work out, which is great for professionals and parents. Reasonably priced at $129, it is an excellent choice for those on a budget.

The Vivofit 2 is also good for those with limited funds, coming in at just $99. It is thin and light, so you hardly notice you are wearing it and is geared towards those who are solely focused on getting healthy. It has a silent “move” bar to alert you when you are idle and an activity timer to accurately record stats. It is also user friendly thanks to a display that is always backlit and a battery that can last a full year before needing to be charged. An ideal choice for those who need a no-fuss tracker that delivers on all levels.

Garmin or Fitbit: What Shoppers Really Think

As great as all these devices sound, it is customer testimony that can really make the difference. In comparing the two companies shoppers had good things to say about both.

Garmin users say their devices are “reliable” and “technologically superior”. Many feel their GPS features are untouchable and gives users a more comprehensive workout analysis.

Fitbit users describe their devices as “worth every penny” and “long-lasting”. Shoppers rave at how easy they are to use and how much information they can get right on their wrist.

The one thing users of both brands had in common was their enthusiasm for the products and a lack of negative feedback.

Q & A – What Customers Want to Know About?

Here are some frequently asked questions shoppers have about these brands.

Q. Does GPS really matter?

A. “Yes, it does. If you are looking for accurate statistics and the ability to record more readings from multiple sports then GPS makes all the difference. GPS can give you a more pinpoint reading of distance and elevation and also lets you explore new territories without fear of getting lost. This lets you expand your and get a more challenging workout”.

Q. Does the Vivofit 2’s battery really last a year?

A. “Yes. The Vivofit does not have GPS and has a battery that can last throughout the year without charging, so you can wear it and forget it”.

Q. Is the Charge HR / Surge’s heart-monitoring an important feature that is needed?

A. “Yes. Heart-rate monitoring gives a more accurate reading in terms of calories burned and in analyzing sleep patterns. You get a clearer picture of how effective your workout is and can streamline it to suit your needs. It also helps anyone with a heart condition better understand their body patterns and get healthy safely”.

As you can see form our Fitbit vs Garmin review each brand has a lot to offer consumers who are looking for quality devices at all different prices. Fitibit’s line of products are great for those with a little more money to spend or for people who are looking for smartwatch extras. Their devices are tailored to give users the best of both worlds without sacrificing form and function.

Garmin, on the other hand, has more of a fitness-minded line, focusing on GPS tracking to give users a more enhanced workout every time. They also have smartwatch capabilities, but are geared to a more health conscious user and are more budget friendly.

No matter which one you choose, Garmin or Fitbit, one thing is guaranteed: you are investing in products made from companies who are invested in you.Buy FitBit