About FitBit<\/h2>\n
FitBit is an American company operating out of San Francisco. They have been operating in the fitness tracker market since the late 2000’s. FitBit offers everything from entry level trackers right up to the top of the line Surge, which retails for $250. In addition to wearable wrist monitors they also produce clip on activity trackers and a digital scale which connects to the FitBit A00 (the Aria).<\/p>\n
<\/p>\n
About Garmin<\/h2>\n
Garmin is an American multinational company operating out of Switzerland. The company was founded in 1989, and established itself as a leader in the global positioning satellite (GPS) market. They have developed GPS systems for use in automotive, outdoor, marine, and sports applications.<\/p>\n
Garmin VS FitBit<\/h2>\nFitBit Charge 2<\/a> VS Forerunner 35<\/a><\/h2>\nWhen it comes to fitness trackers that are heart rate monitor capable, FitbIt’s Blaze is matched by the ForeRunner 35 by Garmin. But, which one is the better product? The following comparison will help you to decide.<\/p>\n
5 Key Advantages of Garmin Forerunner 35<\/span><\/h3>\n![\"Garmin](\"https:\/\https://garagegymbuilder.com/images-na.ssl-images-Alpha)
<\/a><\/span>![\"](\"\/\https://garagegymbuilder.com/images-na.ssl-images-Alpha "\\"")
<\/a><\/span><\/p>\n\n- It has a water rating of 5 ATM so you can swim with it in shallow water. In contrast, the FitBit Charge 2 is only water resistant, meaning that you can take it in the shower but you definitely will not be able swim with it on.The Forerunner 35 has built-in GPS and GLONASS. This means that you can leave your phone behind and go running while still being able to track your route, pace and speed. This is similar to the FitBit Charge 2. <\/span><\/li>\n
- The Garmin Forerunner 35 supports more sports than the FitBit charge 2. It includes running, swimming, water \/ snow sports and golf. In fact, it has a bank of over 40,000 golf courses that you can choose from on the Garmin mobile app. It also supports skiing and snowboarding along with such water sports as indoor and outdoor rowing and paddle boarding. The FitBit Charge 2 does not support snow sports, golf, swimming or water sports.<\/span><\/li>\n
- The Garmin Forerunner 35 will provide you with more drill down on the stats associated with the various sports that you monitor. For example with running, you will get data about your running cadence, 3D speed and distance. You can also connect an external heart rate monitor to the VivoActive to provide a more accurate read out than the built in heart sensor. The FitBit Charge HR2 only has a built-in heart rate sensor; it does not allow for 3rd party connectivity. On both units the heart rate monitor runs 24 \/7, including during exercise. Both devices will provide about the same level of heart rate monitoring accuracy.<\/span><\/li>\n
- The Garmin Forerunner 35 has better smart features. Both devices support phone notifications such as calls, text messages and calendar reminders. However, the Forerunner 35 also supports emails, along with any other incoming messaging to your phone. It also provides you with access to Garmin Connect IQ. This allows you to download custom apps, widgets, and watch face designs.<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n
5 Key Advantages of the FitBit Charge 2<\/span><\/h3>\n<\/a><\/span><\/p>\n\n- The FitBit Charge 2 has far better music controls than the Garmin Forerunner 35. It works for stored and streamed music on IOS, whereas the Forerunner 35 only supports stored music.<\/span><\/li>\n
- The FitBit Charge 2 has a big emphasis on style. FitBit want you to be able to take their wearable devices to the gym and then wear it to the office. As a result you can change the band out to make it more stylish. In contrast, the Garmin Forerunner 35 is always going to look like a fitness watch, no matter how you dress it up.<\/span><\/li>\n
- The FitBit Charge 2 is cheaper than the Garmin Forerunner 35. However, additional bands for the Blaze will cost anywhere from $30 to $130.<\/span><\/li>\n
- The FitBit Charge 2 is easier to use than the Garmin Forerunner 35. You don’t have to dial in a lot of settings, the touch screen is very responsive and everything is straight forward and simple. The Charge 2 is designed for athletes and fitness enthusiasts. <\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n
You will not go wrong with either of these fitness monitors. They are both great devices. They both have an awesome mobile and web application. They both sync automatically via Bluetooth. They both have complete activity and sleep trackers and both feature silent alarms.The Forerunner 35 does have move reminders in its move bar, while the Blaze does not. They both have crystal clear, full color touch screen displays and they both use proprietary charging cables. Both the HR2 and the Forerunner 35 will give you around 5 days charge.<\/p>\n
So, which one is the best?<\/span><\/p>\nFor the general health enthusiast, we would recommend the FitBit Charge 2. However, for the more serious athlete, the Garmin Forerunner 35 provides more in-depth tracking analysis of the workout. It also has built-in GPS and GLONASS as well as the capability of pairing with a chest strap heart rate monitor. That all makes paying the extra $$ a worthwhile extra expense.<\/p>\n
Garmin VivoSmart HR<\/a> VS FitBit Alta<\/a><\/h2>\nThe FitBit Alta is FitBit’s premiere fitness tracker. How does it stack up besides the ever impressive Garmin VivoSmart HR?<\/p>\n
Let’s find out.<\/p>\n
Similarities:<\/h3>\n
Both the FitBit Alta and the Garmin VivoSmart HR are wrist worn devices with touch screen displays. They both have about 5-7 days of battery life. They both operate with iOS, Android and web apps. They both upload to the web and mobile apps via Bluetooth. However, whereas the Garmin VivoSmart HR is resistant up to 50 meters the FitBit Alta is not, being just water resistant. They equally track activity levels, basic fitness data and heart rate. They both have activity tagging or stopwatch features.<\/p>\n
FitBit Alta Advantages<\/span><\/h3>\n<\/a><\/span><\/p>\n\n- The Alta is the most stylish model in the Fitbit range. In comparison to the Garmin VivoSmart HR it is a very slimline unit that can be worn to even the fanciest of occasions without looking out of place. The FitBit Alta supports a variety of interchangeable bands. It provides you with all the basic functions such as tracking steps, distance, calories burned and sleep quality. <\/span><\/li>\n
- FitBit has the better overall mobile application. It also has a better locking mechanism on the strap. The VivoSmart’s locking device isn’t bad, but you will have to use the keeper that comes with the device to make sure you don’t accidentally knock the tracker off your wrist.<\/span><\/li>\n
- The FitBit Alta has auto-sleep detection. In contrast, the VivoSmart requires that you manually enter and exit sleep mode. The VivoSmart only lets you set one alarm, the management of which can be quite cumbersomeOverall, the Alta experience is more seamless and simple.<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n
Garmin VivoSmart HR Advantages<\/span><\/h3>\n<\/a><\/span><\/p>\n\n- The Garmin VivoSmart can be paired with 3rd party chest heart rate monitors. This will provide you with far more accurate pulse rate and calories burned data. The VivoSmart also relays more phone notifications than does the Alta. Any notification that would show up on your phone will show up on your VivoSmart. In contrast, the Alta only relays text messages and phone calls.<\/span><\/li>\n
- The VivoSmart is not as light and streamlined as the Alta As a result, it is less comfortable and more invasive. The VivoSmart has a fine line phone feature and the ability to connect with Garmin’s Go Pro live action camera. A major advantage of the Vivosmart is that it is waterproof. That means that you can wear it while taking a plunge at the pool or beach. <\/span><\/li>\n
- Overall, we select the Garmin VivoSmart as our preferred device over the Fitbit Alta. The key deciding factors were that, it connects with an external heart rate monitor, it has extra features and it is waterproof. <\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n
FitBit Charge2<\/a> VS Garmin VivoFit 2<\/a><\/h2>\nWhat the FitBit Charge HR2 offers:<\/h3>\n\n- Tracking of sleep, steps, goals, calories, distance and floors climbed<\/span><\/li>\n
- Displays of fitness info, time, date, alarms, phone calls<\/span><\/li>\n
- Backlit display<\/span><\/li>\n
- Auto sleep tracking<\/span><\/li>\n
- Auto sync via Bluetooth<\/span><\/li>\n
- Activity tagging \/ stopwatch<\/span><\/li>\n
- Compatible with iOS, Android, Windows, Web, Mac and PC<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n
Why buy the FitBit Charge2 over the VivoFit 2?<\/h3>\n
FitBit has a superior mobile application. In fact, FitBit has one of the best, if not the best, mobile app on the market right now. It is very user friendly, allowing you to jump right in without having to input lots of information. It has an easy layout and is simply a lot more fun to use than the Garmin app.<\/span><\/p>\nThe FitBit Charge2 relays your phone calls.<\/span><\/h3>\n<\/a><\/span><\/p>\n\n- The FitBit Charge2 has autosync. As soon as you open up the app the device will sync all of your data to the app.<\/span><\/li>\n
- The Charge has silent alarms. This allows you to be woken up without interrupting others. You simply set the alarm and your wrist band will vibrate to wake you up.<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n
Why buy the VivoFit 2 over the FitBit Charge2?<\/span><\/h3>\n<\/a><\/span><\/p>\n\n- The Garmin VivoFit 2 is waterproof to 50 meters. That means that you can take it swimming, which you cannot do with the FitBit Charge2.The VivoFit 2 has a very effective locking mechanism. It uses a very robust quarter turn system.<\/span><\/li>\n
- The VivoFit 2 is more customizable than the Charge2. That means that you can change the screens on the display of the device. This is something you cannot do on the FitBit Charge2. You can also get different bands for the VivoFit 2 to style up the look of the device.<\/span><\/li>\n
- The VivoFit 2 connects with an ANT Plus heart rate monitor. This will give you the most accurate heart rate monitoring. The Garmin VivoFit 2 has a vastly superior battery life to the FitBit Charge2. It gives you 12 months of battery life compared to 5-7 days for the FitBit Charge2. After a year or so you simply replace the Garmin battery.<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n
So, who wins in the Vivofit vs FitBit head-to-head? Our overall recommendation is to go with the VivoFit. This device is your everyday activity tracker that you never have to take off. You can take it swimming. And it can be paired with a heart rate monitor.<\/p>\n
Conclusion<\/h2>\n
Having put three of of the best from Garmin and Fitbit head to head, what do we conclude? For the general fitness enthusiast, FitBit offer the features, styling and app analysis to provide what you’re looking for. But, if you are more of an athlete or a hardcore workout warrior, the Garmin range is going to offer you the extra features, such as GPS and chest strap capability, to keep up with the demands of your training. So, go with FitBit for general fitness. But step up to Garmin for a more serious workout tracking experience.<\/p>\n
<\/p>\n
The third biggest player in the wearable activity tracker market is JawBone. For an in-depth analysis of their UP range of fitness wearables, check out our Jawbone UP2, UP3 and UP4 reviews<\/a>. Click to see our review for the MisFit wearable<\/a> range and the complete guide<\/a> for the best fitness trackers that you can find in the market.<\/p>\n <\/a> <\/span><\/p>\nOur #1. Recommendation<\/h4>\n
Fitbit Charge 2<\/strong><\/p>\n![\"jim](\"\/\/garagegymbuilder.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/11\/jim-roose.jpg\" "\\"\\"")
<\/span><\/p>\nMy name is Jim Roose. I’m a former competitive power lifter and gym owner. I’ve bought millions of dollars of fitness equipment over the last 20 years. This site is my way of giving back to the fitness community that’s done so much for me. Every article on here is carefully researched and written by me. Leave a comment if you have any questions.<\/p>\n
<\/div>","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"updated January 1, 2019 Garmin and Fitbit are the Coke and Pepsi of the fitness tracker world. Sure, there are other brands out there, but when you want the best, it’s going to come down to the heavyweight players. And, in the wearable fitness tracker industry, that means that you’ll be comparing Garmin with Fitbit. … Continue reading Garmin vs Fitbit Fitness Trackers<\/span>
When it comes to fitness trackers that are heart rate monitor capable, FitbIt’s Blaze is matched by the ForeRunner 35 by Garmin. But, which one is the better product? The following comparison will help you to decide.<\/p>\n
5 Key Advantages of Garmin Forerunner 35<\/span><\/h3>\n<\/a><\/span><\/a><\/span><\/p>\n\n- It has a water rating of 5 ATM so you can swim with it in shallow water. In contrast, the FitBit Charge 2 is only water resistant, meaning that you can take it in the shower but you definitely will not be able swim with it on.The Forerunner 35 has built-in GPS and GLONASS. This means that you can leave your phone behind and go running while still being able to track your route, pace and speed. This is similar to the FitBit Charge 2. <\/span><\/li>\n
- The Garmin Forerunner 35 supports more sports than the FitBit charge 2. It includes running, swimming, water \/ snow sports and golf. In fact, it has a bank of over 40,000 golf courses that you can choose from on the Garmin mobile app. It also supports skiing and snowboarding along with such water sports as indoor and outdoor rowing and paddle boarding. The FitBit Charge 2 does not support snow sports, golf, swimming or water sports.<\/span><\/li>\n
- The Garmin Forerunner 35 will provide you with more drill down on the stats associated with the various sports that you monitor. For example with running, you will get data about your running cadence, 3D speed and distance. You can also connect an external heart rate monitor to the VivoActive to provide a more accurate read out than the built in heart sensor. The FitBit Charge HR2 only has a built-in heart rate sensor; it does not allow for 3rd party connectivity. On both units the heart rate monitor runs 24 \/7, including during exercise. Both devices will provide about the same level of heart rate monitoring accuracy.<\/span><\/li>\n
- The Garmin Forerunner 35 has better smart features. Both devices support phone notifications such as calls, text messages and calendar reminders. However, the Forerunner 35 also supports emails, along with any other incoming messaging to your phone. It also provides you with access to Garmin Connect IQ. This allows you to download custom apps, widgets, and watch face designs.<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n
5 Key Advantages of the FitBit Charge 2<\/span><\/h3>\n<\/a><\/span><\/p>\n\n- The FitBit Charge 2 has far better music controls than the Garmin Forerunner 35. It works for stored and streamed music on IOS, whereas the Forerunner 35 only supports stored music.<\/span><\/li>\n
- The FitBit Charge 2 has a big emphasis on style. FitBit want you to be able to take their wearable devices to the gym and then wear it to the office. As a result you can change the band out to make it more stylish. In contrast, the Garmin Forerunner 35 is always going to look like a fitness watch, no matter how you dress it up.<\/span><\/li>\n
- The FitBit Charge 2 is cheaper than the Garmin Forerunner 35. However, additional bands for the Blaze will cost anywhere from $30 to $130.<\/span><\/li>\n
- The FitBit Charge 2 is easier to use than the Garmin Forerunner 35. You don’t have to dial in a lot of settings, the touch screen is very responsive and everything is straight forward and simple. The Charge 2 is designed for athletes and fitness enthusiasts. <\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n
You will not go wrong with either of these fitness monitors. They are both great devices. They both have an awesome mobile and web application. They both sync automatically via Bluetooth. They both have complete activity and sleep trackers and both feature silent alarms.The Forerunner 35 does have move reminders in its move bar, while the Blaze does not. They both have crystal clear, full color touch screen displays and they both use proprietary charging cables. Both the HR2 and the Forerunner 35 will give you around 5 days charge.<\/p>\n
So, which one is the best?<\/span><\/p>\nFor the general health enthusiast, we would recommend the FitBit Charge 2. However, for the more serious athlete, the Garmin Forerunner 35 provides more in-depth tracking analysis of the workout. It also has built-in GPS and GLONASS as well as the capability of pairing with a chest strap heart rate monitor. That all makes paying the extra $$ a worthwhile extra expense.<\/p>\n
Garmin VivoSmart HR<\/a> VS FitBit Alta<\/a><\/h2>\nThe FitBit Alta is FitBit’s premiere fitness tracker. How does it stack up besides the ever impressive Garmin VivoSmart HR?<\/p>\n
Let’s find out.<\/p>\n
Similarities:<\/h3>\n
Both the FitBit Alta and the Garmin VivoSmart HR are wrist worn devices with touch screen displays. They both have about 5-7 days of battery life. They both operate with iOS, Android and web apps. They both upload to the web and mobile apps via Bluetooth. However, whereas the Garmin VivoSmart HR is resistant up to 50 meters the FitBit Alta is not, being just water resistant. They equally track activity levels, basic fitness data and heart rate. They both have activity tagging or stopwatch features.<\/p>\n
FitBit Alta Advantages<\/span><\/h3>\n<\/a><\/span><\/p>\n\n- The Alta is the most stylish model in the Fitbit range. In comparison to the Garmin VivoSmart HR it is a very slimline unit that can be worn to even the fanciest of occasions without looking out of place. The FitBit Alta supports a variety of interchangeable bands. It provides you with all the basic functions such as tracking steps, distance, calories burned and sleep quality. <\/span><\/li>\n
- FitBit has the better overall mobile application. It also has a better locking mechanism on the strap. The VivoSmart’s locking device isn’t bad, but you will have to use the keeper that comes with the device to make sure you don’t accidentally knock the tracker off your wrist.<\/span><\/li>\n
- The FitBit Alta has auto-sleep detection. In contrast, the VivoSmart requires that you manually enter and exit sleep mode. The VivoSmart only lets you set one alarm, the management of which can be quite cumbersomeOverall, the Alta experience is more seamless and simple.<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n
Garmin VivoSmart HR Advantages<\/span><\/h3>\n<\/a><\/span><\/p>\n\n- The Garmin VivoSmart can be paired with 3rd party chest heart rate monitors. This will provide you with far more accurate pulse rate and calories burned data. The VivoSmart also relays more phone notifications than does the Alta. Any notification that would show up on your phone will show up on your VivoSmart. In contrast, the Alta only relays text messages and phone calls.<\/span><\/li>\n
- The VivoSmart is not as light and streamlined as the Alta As a result, it is less comfortable and more invasive. The VivoSmart has a fine line phone feature and the ability to connect with Garmin’s Go Pro live action camera. A major advantage of the Vivosmart is that it is waterproof. That means that you can wear it while taking a plunge at the pool or beach. <\/span><\/li>\n
- Overall, we select the Garmin VivoSmart as our preferred device over the Fitbit Alta. The key deciding factors were that, it connects with an external heart rate monitor, it has extra features and it is waterproof. <\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n
FitBit Charge2<\/a> VS Garmin VivoFit 2<\/a><\/h2>\nWhat the FitBit Charge HR2 offers:<\/h3>\n\n- Tracking of sleep, steps, goals, calories, distance and floors climbed<\/span><\/li>\n
- Displays of fitness info, time, date, alarms, phone calls<\/span><\/li>\n
- Backlit display<\/span><\/li>\n
- Auto sleep tracking<\/span><\/li>\n
- Auto sync via Bluetooth<\/span><\/li>\n
- Activity tagging \/ stopwatch<\/span><\/li>\n
- Compatible with iOS, Android, Windows, Web, Mac and PC<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n
Why buy the FitBit Charge2 over the VivoFit 2?<\/h3>\n
FitBit has a superior mobile application. In fact, FitBit has one of the best, if not the best, mobile app on the market right now. It is very user friendly, allowing you to jump right in without having to input lots of information. It has an easy layout and is simply a lot more fun to use than the Garmin app.<\/span><\/p>\nThe FitBit Charge2 relays your phone calls.<\/span><\/h3>\n<\/a><\/span><\/p>\n\n- The FitBit Charge2 has autosync. As soon as you open up the app the device will sync all of your data to the app.<\/span><\/li>\n
- The Charge has silent alarms. This allows you to be woken up without interrupting others. You simply set the alarm and your wrist band will vibrate to wake you up.<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n
Why buy the VivoFit 2 over the FitBit Charge2?<\/span><\/h3>\n<\/a><\/span><\/p>\n\n- The Garmin VivoFit 2 is waterproof to 50 meters. That means that you can take it swimming, which you cannot do with the FitBit Charge2.The VivoFit 2 has a very effective locking mechanism. It uses a very robust quarter turn system.<\/span><\/li>\n
- The VivoFit 2 is more customizable than the Charge2. That means that you can change the screens on the display of the device. This is something you cannot do on the FitBit Charge2. You can also get different bands for the VivoFit 2 to style up the look of the device.<\/span><\/li>\n
- The VivoFit 2 connects with an ANT Plus heart rate monitor. This will give you the most accurate heart rate monitoring. The Garmin VivoFit 2 has a vastly superior battery life to the FitBit Charge2. It gives you 12 months of battery life compared to 5-7 days for the FitBit Charge2. After a year or so you simply replace the Garmin battery.<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n
So, who wins in the Vivofit vs FitBit head-to-head? Our overall recommendation is to go with the VivoFit. This device is your everyday activity tracker that you never have to take off. You can take it swimming. And it can be paired with a heart rate monitor.<\/p>\n
Conclusion<\/h2>\n
Having put three of of the best from Garmin and Fitbit head to head, what do we conclude? For the general fitness enthusiast, FitBit offer the features, styling and app analysis to provide what you’re looking for. But, if you are more of an athlete or a hardcore workout warrior, the Garmin range is going to offer you the extra features, such as GPS and chest strap capability, to keep up with the demands of your training. So, go with FitBit for general fitness. But step up to Garmin for a more serious workout tracking experience.<\/p>\n
<\/p>\n
The third biggest player in the wearable activity tracker market is JawBone. For an in-depth analysis of their UP range of fitness wearables, check out our Jawbone UP2, UP3 and UP4 reviews<\/a>. Click to see our review for the MisFit wearable<\/a> range and the complete guide<\/a> for the best fitness trackers that you can find in the market.<\/p>\n <\/a> <\/span><\/p>\nOur #1. Recommendation<\/h4>\n
Fitbit Charge 2<\/strong><\/p>\n<\/span><\/p>\nMy name is Jim Roose. I’m a former competitive power lifter and gym owner. I’ve bought millions of dollars of fitness equipment over the last 20 years. This site is my way of giving back to the fitness community that’s done so much for me. Every article on here is carefully researched and written by me. Leave a comment if you have any questions.<\/p>\n
<\/div>","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"updated January 1, 2019 Garmin and Fitbit are the Coke and Pepsi of the fitness tracker world. Sure, there are other brands out there, but when you want the best, it’s going to come down to the heavyweight players. And, in the wearable fitness tracker industry, that means that you’ll be comparing Garmin with Fitbit. … Continue reading Garmin vs Fitbit Fitness Trackers<\/span>
- \n
- It has a water rating of 5 ATM so you can swim with it in shallow water. In contrast, the FitBit Charge 2 is only water resistant, meaning that you can take it in the shower but you definitely will not be able swim with it on.The Forerunner 35 has built-in GPS and GLONASS. This means that you can leave your phone behind and go running while still being able to track your route, pace and speed. This is similar to the FitBit Charge 2. <\/span><\/li>\n
- The Garmin Forerunner 35 supports more sports than the FitBit charge 2. It includes running, swimming, water \/ snow sports and golf. In fact, it has a bank of over 40,000 golf courses that you can choose from on the Garmin mobile app. It also supports skiing and snowboarding along with such water sports as indoor and outdoor rowing and paddle boarding. The FitBit Charge 2 does not support snow sports, golf, swimming or water sports.<\/span><\/li>\n
- The Garmin Forerunner 35 will provide you with more drill down on the stats associated with the various sports that you monitor. For example with running, you will get data about your running cadence, 3D speed and distance. You can also connect an external heart rate monitor to the VivoActive to provide a more accurate read out than the built in heart sensor. The FitBit Charge HR2 only has a built-in heart rate sensor; it does not allow for 3rd party connectivity. On both units the heart rate monitor runs 24 \/7, including during exercise. Both devices will provide about the same level of heart rate monitoring accuracy.<\/span><\/li>\n
- The Garmin Forerunner 35 has better smart features. Both devices support phone notifications such as calls, text messages and calendar reminders. However, the Forerunner 35 also supports emails, along with any other incoming messaging to your phone. It also provides you with access to Garmin Connect IQ. This allows you to download custom apps, widgets, and watch face designs.<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n
5 Key Advantages of the FitBit Charge 2<\/span><\/h3>\n
- \n
- The FitBit Charge 2 has far better music controls than the Garmin Forerunner 35. It works for stored and streamed music on IOS, whereas the Forerunner 35 only supports stored music.<\/span><\/li>\n
- The FitBit Charge 2 has a big emphasis on style. FitBit want you to be able to take their wearable devices to the gym and then wear it to the office. As a result you can change the band out to make it more stylish. In contrast, the Garmin Forerunner 35 is always going to look like a fitness watch, no matter how you dress it up.<\/span><\/li>\n
- The FitBit Charge 2 is cheaper than the Garmin Forerunner 35. However, additional bands for the Blaze will cost anywhere from $30 to $130.<\/span><\/li>\n
- The FitBit Charge 2 is easier to use than the Garmin Forerunner 35. You don’t have to dial in a lot of settings, the touch screen is very responsive and everything is straight forward and simple. The Charge 2 is designed for athletes and fitness enthusiasts. <\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n
You will not go wrong with either of these fitness monitors. They are both great devices. They both have an awesome mobile and web application. They both sync automatically via Bluetooth. They both have complete activity and sleep trackers and both feature silent alarms.The Forerunner 35 does have move reminders in its move bar, while the Blaze does not. They both have crystal clear, full color touch screen displays and they both use proprietary charging cables. Both the HR2 and the Forerunner 35 will give you around 5 days charge.<\/p>\n
So, which one is the best?<\/span><\/p>\n
For the general health enthusiast, we would recommend the FitBit Charge 2. However, for the more serious athlete, the Garmin Forerunner 35 provides more in-depth tracking analysis of the workout. It also has built-in GPS and GLONASS as well as the capability of pairing with a chest strap heart rate monitor. That all makes paying the extra $$ a worthwhile extra expense.<\/p>\n
Garmin VivoSmart HR<\/a> VS FitBit Alta<\/a><\/h2>\n
The FitBit Alta is FitBit’s premiere fitness tracker. How does it stack up besides the ever impressive Garmin VivoSmart HR?<\/p>\n
Let’s find out.<\/p>\n
Similarities:<\/h3>\n
Both the FitBit Alta and the Garmin VivoSmart HR are wrist worn devices with touch screen displays. They both have about 5-7 days of battery life. They both operate with iOS, Android and web apps. They both upload to the web and mobile apps via Bluetooth. However, whereas the Garmin VivoSmart HR is resistant up to 50 meters the FitBit Alta is not, being just water resistant. They equally track activity levels, basic fitness data and heart rate. They both have activity tagging or stopwatch features.<\/p>\n
FitBit Alta Advantages<\/span><\/h3>\n
- \n
- The Alta is the most stylish model in the Fitbit range. In comparison to the Garmin VivoSmart HR it is a very slimline unit that can be worn to even the fanciest of occasions without looking out of place. The FitBit Alta supports a variety of interchangeable bands. It provides you with all the basic functions such as tracking steps, distance, calories burned and sleep quality. <\/span><\/li>\n
- FitBit has the better overall mobile application. It also has a better locking mechanism on the strap. The VivoSmart’s locking device isn’t bad, but you will have to use the keeper that comes with the device to make sure you don’t accidentally knock the tracker off your wrist.<\/span><\/li>\n
- The FitBit Alta has auto-sleep detection. In contrast, the VivoSmart requires that you manually enter and exit sleep mode. The VivoSmart only lets you set one alarm, the management of which can be quite cumbersomeOverall, the Alta experience is more seamless and simple.<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n
Garmin VivoSmart HR Advantages<\/span><\/h3>\n
- \n
- The Garmin VivoSmart can be paired with 3rd party chest heart rate monitors. This will provide you with far more accurate pulse rate and calories burned data. The VivoSmart also relays more phone notifications than does the Alta. Any notification that would show up on your phone will show up on your VivoSmart. In contrast, the Alta only relays text messages and phone calls.<\/span><\/li>\n
- The VivoSmart is not as light and streamlined as the Alta As a result, it is less comfortable and more invasive. The VivoSmart has a fine line phone feature and the ability to connect with Garmin’s Go Pro live action camera. A major advantage of the Vivosmart is that it is waterproof. That means that you can wear it while taking a plunge at the pool or beach. <\/span><\/li>\n
- Overall, we select the Garmin VivoSmart as our preferred device over the Fitbit Alta. The key deciding factors were that, it connects with an external heart rate monitor, it has extra features and it is waterproof. <\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n
FitBit Charge2<\/a> VS Garmin VivoFit 2<\/a><\/h2>\n
What the FitBit Charge HR2 offers:<\/h3>\n
- \n
- Tracking of sleep, steps, goals, calories, distance and floors climbed<\/span><\/li>\n
- Displays of fitness info, time, date, alarms, phone calls<\/span><\/li>\n
- Backlit display<\/span><\/li>\n
- Auto sleep tracking<\/span><\/li>\n
- Auto sync via Bluetooth<\/span><\/li>\n
- Activity tagging \/ stopwatch<\/span><\/li>\n
- Compatible with iOS, Android, Windows, Web, Mac and PC<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n
Why buy the FitBit Charge2 over the VivoFit 2?<\/h3>\n
FitBit has a superior mobile application. In fact, FitBit has one of the best, if not the best, mobile app on the market right now. It is very user friendly, allowing you to jump right in without having to input lots of information. It has an easy layout and is simply a lot more fun to use than the Garmin app.<\/span><\/p>\n
The FitBit Charge2 relays your phone calls.<\/span><\/h3>\n
- \n
- The FitBit Charge2 has autosync. As soon as you open up the app the device will sync all of your data to the app.<\/span><\/li>\n
- The Charge has silent alarms. This allows you to be woken up without interrupting others. You simply set the alarm and your wrist band will vibrate to wake you up.<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n
Why buy the VivoFit 2 over the FitBit Charge2?<\/span><\/h3>\n
- \n
- The Garmin VivoFit 2 is waterproof to 50 meters. That means that you can take it swimming, which you cannot do with the FitBit Charge2.The VivoFit 2 has a very effective locking mechanism. It uses a very robust quarter turn system.<\/span><\/li>\n
- The VivoFit 2 is more customizable than the Charge2. That means that you can change the screens on the display of the device. This is something you cannot do on the FitBit Charge2. You can also get different bands for the VivoFit 2 to style up the look of the device.<\/span><\/li>\n
- The VivoFit 2 connects with an ANT Plus heart rate monitor. This will give you the most accurate heart rate monitoring. The Garmin VivoFit 2 has a vastly superior battery life to the FitBit Charge2. It gives you 12 months of battery life compared to 5-7 days for the FitBit Charge2. After a year or so you simply replace the Garmin battery.<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n
So, who wins in the Vivofit vs FitBit head-to-head? Our overall recommendation is to go with the VivoFit. This device is your everyday activity tracker that you never have to take off. You can take it swimming. And it can be paired with a heart rate monitor.<\/p>\n
Conclusion<\/h2>\n
Having put three of of the best from Garmin and Fitbit head to head, what do we conclude? For the general fitness enthusiast, FitBit offer the features, styling and app analysis to provide what you’re looking for. But, if you are more of an athlete or a hardcore workout warrior, the Garmin range is going to offer you the extra features, such as GPS and chest strap capability, to keep up with the demands of your training. So, go with FitBit for general fitness. But step up to Garmin for a more serious workout tracking experience.<\/p>\n
<\/p>\n
The third biggest player in the wearable activity tracker market is JawBone. For an in-depth analysis of their UP range of fitness wearables, check out our Jawbone UP2, UP3 and UP4 reviews<\/a>. Click to see our review for the MisFit wearable<\/a> range and the complete guide<\/a> for the best fitness trackers that you can find in the market.<\/p>\n
Our #1. Recommendation<\/h4>\n
Fitbit Charge 2<\/strong><\/p>\n
<\/span><\/p>\nMy name is Jim Roose. I’m a former competitive power lifter and gym owner. I’ve bought millions of dollars of fitness equipment over the last 20 years. This site is my way of giving back to the fitness community that’s done so much for me. Every article on here is carefully researched and written by me. Leave a comment if you have any questions.<\/p>\n
<\/div>","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"updated January 1, 2019 Garmin and Fitbit are the Coke and Pepsi of the fitness tracker world. Sure, there are other brands out there, but when you want the best, it’s going to come down to the heavyweight players. And, in the wearable fitness tracker industry, that means that you’ll be comparing Garmin with Fitbit. … Continue reading Garmin vs Fitbit Fitness Trackers<\/span>
- The VivoFit 2 is more customizable than the Charge2. That means that you can change the screens on the display of the device. This is something you cannot do on the FitBit Charge2. You can also get different bands for the VivoFit 2 to style up the look of the device.<\/span><\/li>\n
- The Charge has silent alarms. This allows you to be woken up without interrupting others. You simply set the alarm and your wrist band will vibrate to wake you up.<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n
- Displays of fitness info, time, date, alarms, phone calls<\/span><\/li>\n
- The VivoSmart is not as light and streamlined as the Alta As a result, it is less comfortable and more invasive. The VivoSmart has a fine line phone feature and the ability to connect with Garmin’s Go Pro live action camera. A major advantage of the Vivosmart is that it is waterproof. That means that you can wear it while taking a plunge at the pool or beach. <\/span><\/li>\n
- FitBit has the better overall mobile application. It also has a better locking mechanism on the strap. The VivoSmart’s locking device isn’t bad, but you will have to use the keeper that comes with the device to make sure you don’t accidentally knock the tracker off your wrist.<\/span><\/li>\n
- The FitBit Charge 2 has a big emphasis on style. FitBit want you to be able to take their wearable devices to the gym and then wear it to the office. As a result you can change the band out to make it more stylish. In contrast, the Garmin Forerunner 35 is always going to look like a fitness watch, no matter how you dress it up.<\/span><\/li>\n
- The Garmin Forerunner 35 supports more sports than the FitBit charge 2. It includes running, swimming, water \/ snow sports and golf. In fact, it has a bank of over 40,000 golf courses that you can choose from on the Garmin mobile app. It also supports skiing and snowboarding along with such water sports as indoor and outdoor rowing and paddle boarding. The FitBit Charge 2 does not support snow sports, golf, swimming or water sports.<\/span><\/li>\n