The Garmin Vivosmart 5 is a fitness tracker that prioritizes data functionality over aesthetics, competing directly with Fitbit models like the Luxe and Inspire 2. While it may not boast the same sleek design, it offers comprehensive insights and data accessibility through the Garmin Connect app, without requiring a subscription fee. Despite lacking on-board GPS, which limits its use for precise outdoor activity tracking, it excels in monitoring everyday wellbeing and recovery metrics.
Pros and Cons
The Vivosmart 5 is praised for its well-designed interface and lightweight, comfortable build, making it ideal for continuous wear. It features automatic activity tracking and particularly strong sleep monitoring capabilities. However, its monochrome display, absence of on-board GPS and the use of polycarbonate instead of toughened glass for its lens are notable drawbacks.
Comparison with Fitbit
In comparison to Fitbit’s offerings like the Charge 5 and Luxe, the Vivosmart 5 may not be as visually appealing due to its utilitarian design and monochrome screen. Nevertheless, it compensates with its practicality and the extensive amount of data it presents, including detailed graphs and trends rarely seen on trackers of its size.
Specifications
The Vivosmart 5 measures 19.5 x 10.7 x 217mm for the small size and 19.5 x 10.7 x 255mm for the large size, with weights of 24.5g and 26.5g respectively including the strap. It features a grayscale OLED display, lacks GPS onboard, offers 14 sports modes (with 10 available on the watch at any time) and operates on Garmin Watch OS.
Design and Display
Distinct from its predecessor, the Vivosmart 4, the Vivosmart 5 boasts a larger, higher-resolution OLED screen, though it remains monochrome. This screen enhancement allows for clearer data presentation, with improved visibility for stats and text scrolling capabilities. An ambient light sensor adjusts screen brightness dynamically, catering to varying lighting conditions.
Everyday Health Tracking
The Vivosmart 5 excels in sleep tracking, automatically detecting sleep onset and stages with accuracy comparable to dedicated sleep analyzers. It generates detailed sleep reports and integrates with Garmin Connect for deeper analysis. While it lacks support for nap tracking, its SpO2 monitoring and all-day stress tracking are valuable features, providing insights into overall health and recovery.
Workout Tracking
Despite lacking on-board GPS, the Vivosmart 5 supports a variety of sports profiles, albeit limited to storing 10 modes at a time. It relies on connected GPS via a smartphone for accurate outdoor activity tracking. The heart rate monitor, while responsive, does not match the latest Garmin watch standards but proves reliable for interval training and can broadcast data to compatible devices via ANT+.
Other Features
The device lacks on-board music storage but functions as a remote control for media playback on paired smartphones. It notifies users of calls and messages, supports app notifications and includes a feature to find a misplaced phone. Data synchronization with the Garmin Connect app is near-instantaneous, offering a well-organized dashboard displaying comprehensive health and fitness metrics.
Companion App
Garmin Connect serves as the centralized hub for syncing and analyzing data from multiple Garmin devices, including the Vivosmart 5. It presents a user-friendly interface with customizable dashboard elements and extensive data visualization options. Unlike some competitors, Garmin does not restrict any features behind a paywall, offering all data and functionalities for free within the app.
Battery Life
The Vivosmart 5 boasts a battery life of up to seven days in smartwatch mode, reduced when enabling intensive sensors like SpO2 monitoring. Charging from empty to full takes approximately two hours, ensuring minimal downtime between uses.
Price and Release
Released in April 2022, the Vivosmart 5 launched at a price point of $149.99 / £129.99 / AU$229, positioning it competitively within the market for its feature set and capabilities.
In summary, the Garmin Vivosmart 5 targets data-oriented fitness enthusiasts seeking detailed health insights without compromising on comfort or usability. While lacking some premium features like on-board GPS and a color display, it excels in functionality and connectivity, seamlessly integrating with Garmin’s ecosystem for holistic health monitoring and analysis. Its competitive pricing and robust feature set make it a compelling choice for those prioritizing data accuracy and comprehensive health tracking in a lightweight, everyday wearable device.
FAQs
Does the Garmin Vivosmart 5 have built-in GPS?
No, the Garmin Vivosmart 5 does not have on-board GPS. It relies on connected GPS via your smartphone for tracking outdoor activities.
What is the battery life of the Garmin Vivosmart 5?
The Vivosmart 5 offers up to seven days of battery life in smartwatch mode. This can vary depending on usage and settings.
How accurate is the heart rate monitor on the Garmin Vivosmart 5?
The heart rate monitor on the Vivosmart 5 is responsive and generally accurate for everyday use and interval training. It can also broadcast heart rate data to compatible devices via ANT+.
Can the Garmin Vivosmart 5 track sleep?
Yes, the Garmin Vivosmart 5 includes advanced sleep tracking features that automatically monitor your sleep stages and provide insights through the Garmin Connect app.
What sports modes are available on the Garmin Vivosmart 5?
The Vivosmart 5 supports 14 different sports modes, with the ability to store up to 10 modes on the device at a time. These modes cover various activities such as running, cycling and swimming.
Is the Garmin Vivosmart 5 waterproof?
Yes, the Garmin Vivosmart 5 is water-resistant and suitable for swimming. However, it is not designed for diving or other high-speed water sports.
Does the Garmin Vivosmart 5 have music storage?
No, the Garmin Vivosmart 5 does not have on-board music storage. It can, however, control music playback on your smartphone.
What are the key differences between the Garmin Vivosmart 5 and its predecessor, the Vivosmart 4?
The Vivosmart 5 features a larger and higher-resolution OLED display, improved sleep tracking capabilities and a redesigned physical button for easier operation.
How does the Garmin Vivosmart 5 compare to Fitbit devices like the Charge 5 and Luxe?
While the Garmin Vivosmart 5 may not be as stylish as Fitbit’s offerings, it offers more comprehensive data insights without requiring a subscription fee for advanced features.
Is Garmin Connect free to use with the Garmin Vivosmart 5?
Yes, Garmin Connect is free to use with the Garmin Vivosmart 5. It serves as the companion app for syncing and analyzing fitness and health data from the device.