When comparing the Garmin Venu and the Vivoactive 4, they may seem similar at first, but there are noticeable differences between the two when you look closer. This can make it difficult to choose which one to buy. That’s why I’ve put together this “Garmin Venu vs Vivoactive 4” comparison review to help you make an informed decision.
Garmin Venu vs Vivoactive 4 Comparison Table
Here’s a comparison table outlining the similarities and differences between Garmin Venu and the Vivoactive 4.
| GARMIN VENU | VIVOACTIVE 4 | |
| Display | 1.2”, AMOLED | 1.3”, Corning Gorilla Glass 3 |
| Resolution | 390 x 390 pixels | 260 x 260 pixels |
| Companion App | Garmin Connect App | Garmin Connect App |
| Sensors | Heart Rate monitor, onboard GPS, SpO2, accelerometer | Heart Rate monitor, onboard GPS, SpO2, accelerometer |
| Activity Tracking | Blood oxygen levels, climbing, running, cycling, calories burned, heart rate, sleep | Calories burned, Step count, stair climbed, heart rate, sleep, blood oxygen levels, running, walking, hiking |
| Mobile Payment | Yes (Garmin Pay) | Yes (Garmin Pay) |
| Smart Notifications | Yes | Yes |
| Compatibility | iOS, Android | iOS, Android |
| Battery Life | Up to 7+ days (smartwatch mode) & 6 hours (GPS mode + Music) No Power Saving Mode | Up to 8 days (smartwatch mode) & 8 hours (GPS mode + Music) No Power Saving Mode |
| Water Resistance | 5 ATM | 5 ATM |
| Buy on Amazon | Buy on Amazon |
Design and Display: Garmin Venu vs Vivoactive 4
Both the Garmin Venu and Vivoactive 4 are durable watches and look sporty. The Venu is lightweight and comfortable around the wrist, while the Vivoactive 4 display is made of Corning Gorilla Glass 3, which is hard to scratch.
The Venu features a 1.2-inch AMOLED display with a 390 x 390-pixel resolution while the Vivoactive 4 has a 260 x 260-pixel resolution.
The wristbands on both watches are replaceable, allowing you to customize the watch according to your outfit. You can find the Garmin wrist straps on Amazon in various designs and colors.
Activities Tracked
Both the Garmin Venu and Vivoactive 4 feature Pulse Ox sensors that monitor blood oxygen levels throughout the day and while you sleep. The accelerometer on both watches calculates the number of staircases climbed and tracks your elevation as you climb mountains. Additionally, both watches have heart rate sensors that monitor all heart activities, including resting heart rate and heart rate variability. The heart rate sensor on the Vivoactive 4 can detect irregular heartbeats.
Both watches offer the ability to track your sleep and customize your nap time for improved rest. Additionally, they allow you to keep track of the number of calories you burn throughout the day. It’s worth noting that both watches also support contactless payments, meaning you can go cashless with either of them.
Companion Apps
Both watches use companion apps to function fully. Fortunately, Garmin Venu and Vivoactive 4 use the same companion app, the Garmin Connect App.
Compatibility
Unlike Apple Watches, which are compatible only with iOS devices, the Garmin Vivoactive 4 and Venu are compatible with both iOS and Android devices. The Garmin Connect IQ makes it possible for users to download widgets, field data, apps, and clock faces.
Location Tracking
The Vivoactive 4 comes with GPS and a compass to map your routes, while the Venu has an onboard GPS to help monitor your routes as you run, cycle, or walk. Other Garmin watches with built-in GPS include the Garmin Venu Sq, Forerunner 45 (FR45), Fenix 6, Fenix 6X, and Forerunner (FR35) 35.
Water Resistance: Garmin Venu vs Vivoactive 4
Both Garmin watches are waterproof and can withstand water pressure up to 50 meters, making them suitable for swimming or showering.
Battery Life
Both Garmin Venu and Vivoactive 4 come with good battery life. For instance, Garmin Venu will last 8 days in smartwatch mode and up to 8 hours with GPS mode and music on.
On the other hand, the Garmin Vivoactive 4 will last for 7 days when in smartwatch mode and 6 hours with both GPS mode and music on. Unfortunately, there are no power-saving modes on both watches.
Both Garmin watches qualify for purchase when battery life is an important aspect. If you want a watch with power-saving mode, consider the Garmin Fenix 6.
Price: Garmin Venu vs Vivoactive 4
Garmin Vivoactive 4 comes at about $300 for each of its versions, the 40mm, and 45 mm versions. While the Garmin Venu comes at about $150.
Garmin Vivoactive is double the price of Garmin Venu. Speaking of affordability, the Venu watch is more affordable than the Vivoactive 4.
Which Smartwatch should I Buy: Garmin Venu or Vivoactive 4?
While the Garmin Vivoactive 4 may be more expensive, it is the better option if you’re looking for a watch with the best features.
However, both the Garmin Venu and Vivoactive 4 are great options, depending on your needs.
Both watches have GPS modes and a compass for the Vivoactive 4, ensuring that you never get lost while running or cycling in new locations. If you’re looking for a watch that offers accurate ECG readings, the Garmin Venu is the better choice over the Vivoactive 4.
Ultimately, the choice between the Garmin Venu and the Garmin Vivoactive 4 comes down to the features you’re looking for.
If you’re after a more affordable smartwatch with good battery life, the Garmin Venu is your best bet. Garmin Venu and Vivoactive 4 use the same companion app; the Garmin Connect App.
