Garmin Connect isn't the prettiest software we reviewed, but it's easy to read and includes plenty of useful features: a customizable dashboard, a training calendar, sleep tracking, new route suggestions and performance comparisons to other users who have run the same route. The software takes advantage of Garmin's background in navigation by highlighting its mapping and routing capabilities throughout each various features, which makes this software ideal for runners or cyclists. It also integrates with social media such as Facebook and Twitter, and lets you compete with and encourage friends who use Garmin Connect. The vívofit is Garmin's all-purpose fitness tracking device. It records steps, distance, elevation, duration and calories burned, and will save 2-3 weeks of history if you forget to sync. In addition, it will remind you to get moving if you've been sitting still for too long. The vívofit is water resistant up to 50 meters, features a sleek design and can be upgraded to include a corresponding heart rate monitor. The base version of the vívofit is $129.99; the bundle that includes the heart rate monitor is $169.99. Garmin's other devices (the ForeRunner 620 for avid runners, the Approach S6 for golfers and the Edge 510 or Edge Touring Plus for cyclists) will cost you a whopping $299.99-399.99. They offer all the bells and whistles you could want, yes - but unless you're training for the next Olympics, this level of technology is unnecessary; you can still meet and exceed your fitness goals with any of the other less-expensive devices out there.

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The Bad

Very expensive
Separate heart rate monitor
No sleep tracking

Given the inflated prices and sport-specific features of most of Garmin's devices, the vívofit is the only Garmin fitness tracker that's useful for the average Joe. While the vívofit rates high in terms of tracking features and wearability, the separate heart rate monitor is a downside - it could easily be left at home or misplaced. Garmin Connect doesn't offer the option to track your sleep, so you may want to opt for another company if this is important to you.

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The Bottom Line

Though we'd like to see more device options for Garmin Connect, the software is user-friendly and has plenty to offer. In addition, users are bound to see the benefit of using a fitness tracker company that also has a major stake in the navigation industry - Garmin's GPS mapping and tracking features are top-notch.

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User Reviews

Star Rating

3.7

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26 Reviews

Review Breakdown

5 grade

46%

4 grade

19%

3 grade

2 grade

12%

1 grade

15%

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Kaylee Gay Chicago, IL

I love how accurate the GPS in Garmin is with tracking my workouts. They have so many features that can track almost anything that you can imagine from workouts like hiking to walking to water polo. I use my Garmin for running a lot so I love how accurate my splits are. I also love how it tells me when my stress is too high because then I can focus on how to lower it. As well as it tells me my hydration levels so I can almost never get dehydrated. If you have a problem with hydration, I definitely recommend it. I love how organized Garmins are and how easy they are to figure out.

4 years ago

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J. Whelan Long Beach, MS

I recently switched from Garmin to Fitbit Versa 2. Although I like my Fitbit versa to watch, I'm sad to admit that I really miss my Garmin. The Connect app is very user-friendly and I miss all my charts and graphs and how easy it was to join a group we're all you did was see their activity. With Fitbit you can only have 5 people in a group to see their activity charts, otherwise you're in a large group and the formatting is pretty much like Facebook. I don't want to be social to see your steps. Garmin and Connect I miss you and I will be coming back. Please run a really good sale next Christmas!

6 years ago

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Miguel Figueroa Provo, UT

Not the most advance in personal trackers, but if internal GPS is a must for you, i think there’s nothing better for the price point. Quite a few different models available which is nice; you can always find something that fits you life style with Garmin

7 years ago

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Caroline McLeskey Gilbert, AZ

As an experienced runner, I find this very helpful in charting mileage and keeping myself on track to achieve my goals. The easy to use and visually pleasing format is also very satisfying and does not hinder use. It's easy connection with my Forerunner 220 has really helped me.

7 years ago

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Amy Christian Las Vegas, NV

I track everything through connect! It is my go to for food, fitness, health, sleep. And I love all the challenges I can do and badges I get. It keeps me motivated. It’s easy to use but my only complaint is that I have to re-sync my garmin watch more than I think I should have to.

6 years ago

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jkenny90 , TX

This app seamlessly connects with my Garmin watch and makes it so easy to track my marathon training. The amount of data captured and provided to me during my runs is crucial to helping me get prepared.

6 years ago

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AlisaD Salt Lake City, UT

My boys have used these watches and love them. Stayed charged for a long time. Can use for all activities including swimming.

4 years ago

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Rachel Calton Herriman, UT

I love how easy it is to connect my watch to the app! Plus there are lots of things I can add and keep track of which is super nice!

4 years ago

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paulgrabel Marion, IN

Lost on golf course. I found it the next day and it was run over by a lawn mower. Bracelet was torn up but I got a new one and it works just fine.

11 years ago

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Ellie Cheyenne, WY

My Garmin watch has been my favorite so far. It’s waterproof and tracks all kinds of activity like my mountain biking. The app is easy to understand and helps me.

6 years ago

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Jessica Eagle Mountain, UT

I use my Garmin connect for running. It’s nice to have an easy way to track my miles.

6 years ago

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Katie Riederer Kiel, WI

Great experience! Fast customer service

7 years ago