Garmin, a renowned name in the world of sports technology, has recently unveiled its latest offering – the Vivoactive 5. This new device has taken many by surprise, not just because of its unexpected release but also due to the plethora of features it brings to the table.
A New Display and Design
One of the most notable changes in the Vivoactive 5 is the shift from the MIP-based display of its predecessors to a modern AMOLED display. This change has given the device a significant facelift, making it look distinctively different from the earlier Vivoactive series. The AMOLED display is not just about aesthetics; it promises better clarity, vibrant colors, and an overall enhanced user experience.
Features Galore
Garmin has packed the Vivoactive 5 with a myriad of features. Some of the standout features include:
- New sport profiles like open-water swimming.
- Comprehensive 24×7 health and sleep tracking metrics.
- The introduction of a sleep coach feature that offers sleep recommendations.
- HRV (Heart Rate Variability) tracking support at night.
- A daily summary report feature, which is a first for Garmin.
- Support for e-bike sensors and tracking for wheelchair-specific workouts.
- A revamped user interface that offers a more intuitive user experience.
However, it’s not all additions. The Vivoactive 5 has seen some features being removed or reduced. For instance, the barometric altimeter, which was present in the previous versions, has been omitted in the new device. This has led to a few other related features being cut as well.
Comparing with the Venu 3
When placed side by side with the Garmin Venu 3, the differences become even more pronounced. The Venu 3 boasts of a newer Garmin Elevate v5 optical HR sensor, while the Vivoactive 5 settles for the v4. The Venu 3 also offers features like a microphone and speaker for voice calls, a barometric altimeter, and on-screen workout animations, which the Vivoactive 5 lacks. However, when it comes to pricing, the Vivoactive 5, priced at $299, offers a more affordable option compared to the Venu 3’s $449.
The Verdict
The Garmin Vivoactive 5, with its AMOLED display and a slew of new features, is a significant upgrade from its predecessors. While it might lack a few features present in the higher-end Venu 3, it offers a compelling package for its price point.
Key Takeaways:
- The Vivoactive 5 boasts an AMOLED display, a departure from the MIP-based displays of its predecessors.
- It comes packed with new features like open-water swimming profiles, 24×7 health metrics, and a revamped UI.
- Some features, like the barometric altimeter, have been removed in the new version.
- When compared to the Venu 3, the Vivoactive 5 offers a more affordable option with a slightly reduced feature set.
Stay tuned for more in-depth reviews and updates on the latest in sports technology!
