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Garmin Vivoactive 4S Review | 126 Data compared

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  • Avg. price: ~£180
  • Screen size: 1.10 inch
  • Battery life: 7 day/s
  • Display type: MIP LCD

Garmin Vivoactive 4S review. Compare 126 technical specifications and user reviews to see how it ranks among smartwatches and if it is worth buying.

7.2

Overall score

What it is: An overall evaluation of the smartwatch's quality, based on technical analyses and user reviews.

When it matters: When you need a quick reference to identify the best Smartwatches on the market.

Score components:

90.0%

7.2

Technical Score

10.0%

7.7

User score

Very good
7.2

Technical Score

What it is: An assessment of the smartwatch's technical performance, covering eight key areas: performance & hardware, software, camera, connectivity, display, battery, audio, and design.

When it matters: When you want to compare Smartwatches based on technical performance and available features.

Score components:

24.0%

7.0

Health

21.0%

9.0

Fitness

16.0%

5.3

Battery

14.0%

7.6

Smart features

12.0%

7.4

Connectivity

9.0%

7.1

Display & Design

4.0%

4.4

Hardware

Very good
7.7

User score

What it is: A rating that combines user reviews and the total number of reviews received by the smartwatch

When it matters: When you want to know how a smartwatch handles daily tasks and how reliable it remains over time according to user feedback.

Score components:

70.0%

8.5

User reviews

30.0%

6.0

Popularity

User score:
amazon
4.2
(124)
amazon
4.4
(74)
amazon
2.8
(6)

(Reviews last updated: Apr 2026)

Very good
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    Best prices

    Best rankings

    ?

    Available: ranking among products currently available (including other versions of this product).
    All: ranking among all products in the database.

    Technical Specifications of smartwatch Garmin Vivoactive 4S

    Technical Score

    What it is: An assessment of the smartwatch's technical performance, covering eight key areas: performance & hardware, software, camera, connectivity, display, battery, audio, and design.

    When it matters: When you want to compare Smartwatches based on technical performance and available features.

    Score components:

    24.0%

    7.0

    Health

    21.0%

    9.0

    Fitness

    16.0%

    5.3

    Battery

    14.0%

    7.6

    Smart features

    12.0%

    7.4

    Connectivity

    9.0%

    7.1

    Display & Design

    4.0%

    4.4

    Hardware

    7.2
    Garmin Vivoactive 4S has a technical score of 7.19 points, which is higher than 72.1% of smartwatches.
    User score

    What it is: A rating that combines user reviews and the total number of reviews received by the smartwatch

    When it matters: When you want to know how a smartwatch handles daily tasks and how reliable it remains over time according to user feedback.

    Score components:

    70.0%

    8.5

    User reviews

    30.0%

    6.0

    Popularity

    User score:
    amazon
    4.2
    (124)
    amazon
    4.4
    (74)
    amazon
    2.8
    (6)

    (Reviews last updated: Apr 2026)

    7.7
    Garmin Vivoactive 4S has a user score of 7.72 points, which is lower than 73.4% of smartwatches.
    Popularity
    What it is: An indicator based on the number of reviews received by the smartwatch.
    When it matters: When you prefer to purchase a product chosen and reviewed by many other consumers.
    6.0
    Garmin Vivoactive 4S has a popularity of 6 points, which is higher than 64.2% of smartphones.
    Ratio quality/price

    What it is: An indicator that combines the smartwatch's overall rating with its cost.

    When it matters: When you are looking for a smartwatch with a good balance between quality and price.

    Score components:

    60.0%

    7.2

    Overall score

    40.0%

    9.6

    Price

    7.9
    Garmin Vivoactive 4S has a quality-to-price ratio of 7.9 points, which is higher than 71.6% of smartphones.
    Brand name
    What it is: The company that designs, sells, and supports the watch.
    When it matters: When brand ecosystem, style, or support matters to you.

    Importance: MEDIUM

    Garmin
    Heart rate monitor
    What it is: A built-in sensor that measures your pulse directly from the wrist.
    When it matters: When you want health data from your wrist during the day or night.

    Importance: HIGH

    yes
    Garmin Vivoactive 4S includes a heart rate monitor. 90.4% of smartwatches include a heart rate monitor.
    Blood oxygen monitoring
    What it is: A wrist-based feature that estimates blood oxygen saturation over time.
    When it matters: When you want health data from your wrist during the day or night.

    Importance: HIGH

    yes
    Garmin Vivoactive 4S supports blood oxygen monitoring. 64.4% of smartwatches support blood oxygen monitoring.
    Readings are for wellness use, not medical diagnosis.
    ECG
    What it is: The ability to record a single-lead electrocardiogram from the wrist.
    When it matters: When you want health data from your wrist during the day or night.

    Importance: HIGH

    no
    Garmin Vivoactive 4S does not support ECG. 15.1% of smartwatches support ECG.
    Irregular heart rate warnings
    What it is: Notifications that flag heart-rate patterns which appear unusually irregular.
    When it matters: When you want health data from your wrist during the day or night.

    Importance: MEDIUM

    yes
    Garmin Vivoactive 4S supports irregular heart rate warnings. 43.7% of smartwatches support irregular heart rate warnings.
    Supports abnormal high/low heart-rate alerts (typically after inactivity).
    Show more
    Accelerometer
    What it is: A motion sensor that measures acceleration, steps, gestures, and general movement.
    When it matters: When you track workouts and want better training data.

    Importance: MEDIUM

    yes
    Garmin Vivoactive 4S includes an accelerometer. 99.1% of smartwatches include an accelerometer.
    Barometer
    What it is: A pressure sensor used for altitude changes, elevation estimates, and weather-related context.
    When it matters: When you run, ride, hike, or navigate without relying on your phone.

    Importance: MEDIUM

    yes
    Garmin Vivoactive 4S includes a barometer. 45.6% of smartwatches include a barometer.
    Gyroscope
    What it is: A motion sensor that measures rotation and helps interpret wrist movement more accurately.
    When it matters: When you track workouts and want better training data.

    Importance: MEDIUM

    yes
    Garmin Vivoactive 4S includes a gyroscope. 64.6% of smartwatches include a gyroscope.
    Cadence sensor
    What it is: A sensor input used to measure step or pedal rhythm during training.
    When it matters: When you track workouts and want better training data.

    Importance: MEDIUM

    yes
    Garmin Vivoactive 4S includes a cadence sensor. 20.1% of smartwatches include a cadence sensor.
    Distance tracking
    What it is: The ability to measure how far you move during walks, runs, rides, or other activities.
    When it matters: When you track workouts and want better training data.

    Importance: MEDIUM

    yes
    Garmin Vivoactive 4S supports distance tracking. 95.7% of smartwatches support distance tracking.
    Show more
    Battery life
    What it is: The typical endurance the watch can deliver on a full charge under the stated usage pattern.
    When it matters: When you do not want to charge the watch too often.

    Importance: HIGH

    Good value: >=7 days

    7 day/s
    Garmin Vivoactive 4S offers a battery life of 7 day/s which is longer than that of 38.7% of smartwatches and equal to that of 17.1% of smartwatches.
    Battery life in training mode
    What it is: The expected endurance while workout tracking and related training functions are active.
    When it matters: When you do not want to charge the watch too often.

    Importance: HIGH

    Good value: >=36.8 h

    15 h
    Garmin Vivoactive 4S lasts 15 h in training mode which is shorter than 55.7% of smartwatches and equal to that of 2.6% of smartwatches.
    Battery life with GPS on
    What it is: The expected runtime when satellite tracking stays active throughout use.
    When it matters: When you do not want to charge the watch too often.

    Importance: HIGH

    Good value: >=35 h

    16.5 h
    Garmin Vivoactive 4S lasts 16.5 h with GPS on which is shorter than 58.7% of smartwatches and equal to that of 0.3% of smartwatches.
    Battery power
    What it is: The battery capacity, usually measured in milliampere-hours (mAh).
    When it matters: When you do not want to charge the watch too often.

    Importance: HIGH

    Good value: >=397 mAh

    240 mAh
    Garmin Vivoactive 4S has a battery capacity of 240 mAh which is smaller than the batteries in 73.6% of smartwatches and equal to those in 2.1% of smartwatches.
    Charge time
    What it is: The time needed to recharge the battery from empty to full or to a stated percentage.
    When it matters: When you want to top up the battery quickly.

    Importance: HIGH

    Good value: <=102 min

    45 min
    Garmin Vivoactive 4S charges in 45 min which is faster than 95% of smartwatches and equal to the charge time of 0.8% of smartwatches.
    Approximate value from reported charging range: 45 minutes.
    Show more
    Operating system
    What it is: The software platform that runs the watch interface, apps, and core functions.
    When it matters: When you care about apps, features, and long-term support.

    Importance: HIGH

    Garmin OS
    Garmin Vivoactive 4S runs Garmin OS which is more advanced than the operating system in 71.1% of smartwatches and the same as that in 7.7% of smartwatches.
    Software update frequency
    What it is: Shows how actively the watch is still updated: regular means ongoing updates throughout active support, occasional means updates every few months or only from time to time, and ended means active software support has mostly stopped.
    When it matters: When you care how actively the watch is still supported with fixes, patches, and new features.

    Importance: MEDIUM

    occasional
    Garmin Vivoactive 4S has occasional software update support which is more active than that of 57.6% of smartwatches and equal to that of 36.2% of smartwatches.
    Updates are typically released about every 3 months.
    Third-party app support
    What it is: Support for installing or using apps from developers beyond the watch maker.
    When it matters: When you care about apps, features, and long-term support.

    Importance: MEDIUM

    yes
    Garmin Vivoactive 4S supports third-party apps. 47.6% of smartwatches support third-party apps.
    Notifications
    What it is: Mirroring of calls, messages, apps, or other alerts on the watch.
    When it matters: When you want to check alerts without taking out your phone.

    Importance: MEDIUM

    yes
    Garmin Vivoactive 4S supports notifications. 99.9% of smartwatches support notifications.
    Voice assistant support
    What it is: Support for a voice assistant that can answer queries or trigger actions from the wrist.
    When it matters: When you want to control the watch or reply without typing.

    Importance: MEDIUM

    no
    Garmin Vivoactive 4S does not support voice assistants. 68% of smartwatches support voice assistants.
    Availability depends on paired phone and/or regional support.
    Show more
    Cellular module
    What it is: Built-in mobile connectivity that can keep the watch online away from the phone.
    When it matters: When you want calls, messages, or data without your phone nearby.

    Importance: HIGH

    no
    Garmin Vivoactive 4S does not include a cellular module. 17.2% of smartwatches include a cellular module.
    SIM cards
    What it is: The number or type of SIM options the watch accepts for cellular service.
    When it matters: When you want calls, messages, or data without your phone nearby.

    Importance: LOW

    Good value: eSIM support

    0
    GPS
    What it is: Built-in satellite positioning that lets the watch record location during outdoor activity.
    When it matters: When you run, ride, hike, or navigate without relying on your phone.

    Importance: HIGH

    yes
    Garmin Vivoactive 4S supports GPS. 56.1% of smartwatches support GPS.
    Galileo support
    What it is: Support for Galileo satellites alongside other positioning systems.
    When it matters: When you run, ride, hike, or navigate without relying on your phone.

    Importance: MEDIUM

    yes
    Garmin Vivoactive 4S supports Galileo navigation. 38.7% of smartwatches support Galileo navigation.
    Compass
    What it is: A directional sensor that helps the watch determine heading and orientation.
    When it matters: When you run, ride, hike, or navigate without relying on your phone.

    Importance: MEDIUM

    yes
    Garmin Vivoactive 4S includes a compass. 49.3% of smartwatches include a compass.
    Show more
    Screen size
    What it is: The diagonal measurement of the visible display area, usually expressed in inches.
    When it matters: When you want the screen to be easy to read at a glance.

    Importance: HIGH

    Good value: >=1.5 inch

    1.10 inch
    Garmin Vivoactive 4S has a screen size of 1.10 inch which is smaller than the screens of 94.8% of smartwatches and equal to those of 1% of smartwatches.
    Display type
    What it is: The screen technology used by the watch, such as AMOLED, OLED, or memory-in-pixel LCD.
    When it matters: When you want the screen to be easy to read at a glance.

    Importance: HIGH

    MIP LCD
    Garmin Vivoactive 4S uses a MIP LCD display type which is less advanced than that of 61.3% of smartwatches and the same as that of 5.2% of smartwatches.
    Resolution
    What it is: The total number of pixels available on the watch display.
    When it matters: When you want the screen to be easy to read at a glance.

    Importance: MEDIUM

    Good value: >=416 x 416

    218 x 218
    Garmin Vivoactive 4S has a display resolution of 218 x 218 which is lower than that of 89.2% of smartwatches and equal to that of 0.2% of smartwatches.
    Pixel density
    What it is: The number of pixels packed into each inch of the display.
    When it matters: When you want the screen to be easy to read at a glance.

    Importance: MEDIUM

    Good value: >=326 ppi

    280 ppi
    Garmin Vivoactive 4S has a pixel density of 280 ppi which is lower than that of 70.3% of smartwatches of smartwatches.
    Display brightness
    What it is: The peak brightness the display can reach, usually expressed in nits.
    When it matters: When you want the screen to stay readable outdoors and in strong sunlight.

    Importance: HIGH

    Good value: >=1000 nits

    ?
    Show more
    CPU speed
    What it is: The clock speed of the watch processor, usually expressed in GHz or MHz.
    When it matters: When you want apps and menus to feel smooth.

    Importance: MEDIUM

    Good value: Modern standard

    ?
    Processor model
    What it is: The processor model is the chipset or SoC that powers the watch's performance, connectivity, and efficiency.
    When it matters: When you care about app responsiveness, platform generation, and long-term feature support.

    Importance: LOW

    Good value: modern smartwatch chipset

    ?
    RAM
    What it is: The amount of working memory available for apps, watch faces, and background tasks.
    When it matters: When you want apps and menus to feel smooth.

    Importance: MEDIUM

    Good value: >=1 GB

    ?
    Internal storage
    What it is: Built-in storage for apps, music, watch faces, and other local data.
    When it matters: When you want more room for apps, music, or offline data.

    Importance: MEDIUM

    Good value: >=8 GB

    4 GB
    Garmin Vivoactive 4S uses 4 GB for internal storage which is larger than that of 40.5% of smartwatches and equal to that of 26.9% of smartwatches.
    External memory slot
    What it is: A slot for expandable storage such as a memory card, if the watch provides one.
    When it matters: When you want more room for apps, music, or offline data.

    Importance: LOW

    no
    Garmin Vivoactive 4S does not include an external memory slot. 0.3% of smartwatches include an external memory slot.
    Show more

    Garmin Vivoactive 4S vs the average smartwatch

    • 75 min shorter charge time
      Garmin Vivoactive 4S charges faster than the average smartwatch (45 min vs 120 min). The average smartwatch charges in 120 min.
      Approximate value from reported charging range: 45 minutes.
      What it is: The time needed to recharge the battery from empty to full or to a stated percentage.
      When it matters: When you want to top up the battery quickly.

      Importance: HIGH

      Good value: <=102 min

      Garmin Vivoactive 4S charges faster than the average smartwatch (45 min vs 120 min). The average smartwatch charges in 120 min.45 min vs 120 min
    • Has NFC
      Garmin Vivoactive 4S supports NFC, the average smartwatch does not. 42.5% of smartwatches support NFC.
      What it is: Near-field communication hardware used for payments, pairing, or quick tap-based actions.
      When it matters: When you want to pay quickly or pair devices with a tap.

      Importance: HIGH

      Garmin Vivoactive 4S supports NFC, the average smartwatch does not. 42.5% of smartwatches support NFC.
    • Has temperature sensor
      Garmin Vivoactive 4S includes a temperature sensor, the average smartwatch does not. 22.3% of smartwatches include a temperature sensor.
      Temperature readings may be skin/ambient trends, not core-body medical values.
      What it is: A sensor that records skin or wrist temperature changes and longer-term trends.
      When it matters: When you want health data from your wrist during the day or night.

      Importance: MEDIUM

      Garmin Vivoactive 4S includes a temperature sensor, the average smartwatch does not. 22.3% of smartwatches include a temperature sensor.
    • Includes crash detection
      Garmin Vivoactive 4S supports crash detection, the average smartwatch does not. 11.5% of smartwatches support crash detection.
      Requires paired phone/network and/or specific activities for automatic alerts.
      What it is: Detection of severe impacts or crashes that can trigger emergency workflows.
      When it matters: When you want extra help in an emergency.

      Importance: HIGH

      Garmin Vivoactive 4S supports crash detection, the average smartwatch does not. 11.5% of smartwatches support crash detection.
    • Supports Emergency SOS
      Garmin Vivoactive 4S includes Emergency SOS, the average smartwatch does not. 42.4% of smartwatches include Emergency SOS.
      SOS feature has implementation limits (phone/app/subscription/activity dependent).
      What it is: An emergency feature that can contact help or alert trusted people from the watch.
      When it matters: When you want extra help in an emergency.

      Importance: HIGH

      Garmin Vivoactive 4S includes Emergency SOS, the average smartwatch does not. 42.4% of smartwatches include Emergency SOS.
    • More advanced operating system
      Garmin Vivoactive 4S runs a more advanced operating system than the average smartwatch (Garmin OS vs Proprietary OS).
      What it is: The software platform that runs the watch interface, apps, and core functions.
      When it matters: When you care about apps, features, and long-term support.

      Importance: HIGH

      Garmin Vivoactive 4S runs a more advanced operating system than the average smartwatch (Garmin OS vs Proprietary OS).Garmin OS vs Proprietary OS
    • Supports VO2 max
      Garmin Vivoactive 4S measures VO2 max, the average smartwatch does not. 49.3% of smartwatches measure VO2 max.
      What it is: Estimated VO2 max, a fitness metric linked to aerobic capacity and endurance.
      When it matters: When you track workouts and want better training data.

      Importance: MEDIUM

      Garmin Vivoactive 4S measures VO2 max, the average smartwatch does not. 49.3% of smartwatches measure VO2 max.
    • Has irregular heart alerts
      Garmin Vivoactive 4S supports irregular heart rate warnings, the average smartwatch does not. 43.7% of smartwatches support irregular heart rate warnings.
      Supports abnormal high/low heart-rate alerts (typically after inactivity).
      What it is: Notifications that flag heart-rate patterns which appear unusually irregular.
      When it matters: When you want health data from your wrist during the day or night.

      Importance: MEDIUM

      Garmin Vivoactive 4S supports irregular heart rate warnings, the average smartwatch does not. 43.7% of smartwatches support irregular heart rate warnings.
    • Has temperature sensor
      Garmin Vivoactive 4S includes a temperature sensor, the average smartwatch does not. 22.3% of smartwatches include a temperature sensor.
    • Supports VO2 max
      Garmin Vivoactive 4S measures VO2 max, the average smartwatch does not. 49.3% of smartwatches measure VO2 max.
    • Has irregular heart alerts
      Garmin Vivoactive 4S supports irregular heart rate warnings, the average smartwatch does not. 43.7% of smartwatches support irregular heart rate warnings.
    • Has sweat tracking
      Garmin Vivoactive 4S tracks perspiration, the average smartwatch does not. 11% of smartwatches track perspiration.
    • Supports calorie tracking
      Garmin Vivoactive 4S supports calorie tracking, the average smartwatch does not. 43.8% of smartwatches support calorie tracking.
    • Has weight tracking
      Garmin Vivoactive 4S supports weight tracking, the average smartwatch does not. 39.2% of smartwatches support weight tracking.
    • Supports water intake tracking
      Garmin Vivoactive 4S tracks water intake, the average smartwatch does not. 48.2% of smartwatches track water intake.
    • Has barometer
      Garmin Vivoactive 4S includes a barometer, the average smartwatch does not. 45.6% of smartwatches include a barometer.
    • Has cadence sensor
      Garmin Vivoactive 4S includes a cadence sensor, the average smartwatch does not. 20.1% of smartwatches include a cadence sensor.
    • Has external HR monitor
      Garmin Vivoactive 4S supports external heart rate monitor compatibility, the average smartwatch does not. 41.3% of smartwatches support external heart rate monitor compatibility.
    • 75 min shorter charge time
      Garmin Vivoactive 4S charges faster than the average smartwatch (45 min vs 120 min). The average smartwatch charges in 120 min.
    • Has NFC
      Garmin Vivoactive 4S supports NFC, the average smartwatch does not. 42.5% of smartwatches support NFC.
    • Has compass
      Garmin Vivoactive 4S includes a compass, the average smartwatch does not. 49.3% of smartwatches include a compass.
    • Supports Wi-Fi
      Garmin Vivoactive 4S supports Wi-Fi, the average smartwatch does not. 43.4% of smartwatches support Wi-Fi.
    • Supports ANT+
      Garmin Vivoactive 4S supports ANT+, the average smartwatch does not. 9.5% of smartwatches support ANT+.
    • Supports Galileo
      Garmin Vivoactive 4S supports Galileo navigation, the average smartwatch does not. 38.7% of smartwatches support Galileo navigation.
    • Stronger display glass
      Garmin Vivoactive 4S uses Corning Gorilla Glass 3 display glass, while the average smartwatch uses mineral glass.
    • 2 mm narrower band
      Garmin Vivoactive 4S has a narrower band width than the average smartwatch (20 mm vs 22.0 mm). The average smartwatch band is 22.0 mm wide.
    • Includes crash detection
      Garmin Vivoactive 4S supports crash detection, the average smartwatch does not. 11.5% of smartwatches support crash detection.
    • Supports Emergency SOS
      Garmin Vivoactive 4S includes Emergency SOS, the average smartwatch does not. 42.4% of smartwatches include Emergency SOS.
    • More advanced operating system
      Garmin Vivoactive 4S runs a more advanced operating system than the average smartwatch (Garmin OS vs Proprietary OS).
    • Supports third-party apps
      Garmin Vivoactive 4S supports third-party apps, the average smartwatch does not. 47.6% of smartwatches support third-party apps.
    • More frequent updates
      Garmin Vivoactive 4S receives occasional software updates, while the average smartwatch receives ended updates.

    Total
    Health
    Fitness
    Battery
    Connectivity
    Display & Design
    Smart features
    • No routes
      Garmin Vivoactive 4S does not support route support, the average smartwatch does. 50.4% of smartwatches support route support.
    • No voice feedback
      Garmin Vivoactive 4S does not support voice feedback, the average smartwatch does. 62.1% of smartwatches support voice feedback.
    • 60 fewer exercise profiles
      Garmin Vivoactive 4S supports fewer exercise modes than the average smartwatch (20 vs 80). The average smartwatch supports 80 exercise modes.
      Reported as at least 20 exercise modes.
    • 60 mAh smaller battery capacity
      Garmin Vivoactive 4S has a smaller battery capacity than the average smartwatch (240 mAh vs 300 mAh). The average smartwatch battery is 300 mAh.
    • 5 h shorter training battery life
      Garmin Vivoactive 4S lasts less in training mode than the average smartwatch (15 h vs 20 h). The average smartwatch lasts 20 h.
    • 3.5 h shorter GPS battery life
      Garmin Vivoactive 4S lasts less with GPS on than the average smartwatch (16.5 h vs 20 h). The average smartwatch lasts 20 h.
    • Basic display type
      Garmin Vivoactive 4S uses MIP LCD display technology, while the average smartwatch features AMOLED.
    • 0.3 inch smaller screen size
      Garmin Vivoactive 4S has a smaller screen size than the average smartwatch (1.1 inch vs 1.40 inch). The average smartwatch screen is 1.40 inch.
    • Lower resolution
      Garmin Vivoactive 4S has a display resolution of 218x 218, while the average smartwatch reaches 352x 430.
    • No ambient light sensor
      Garmin Vivoactive 4S does not include an ambient light sensor, the average smartwatch does. 60.5% of smartwatches include an ambient light sensor.
    • 46 ppi lower pixel density
      Garmin Vivoactive 4S has a lower pixel density than the average smartwatch (280 ppi vs 326 ppi). The average smartwatch display reaches 326 ppi.
    • 1.1 mm thicker watch body
      Garmin Vivoactive 4S is thicker than the average smartwatch (12.7 mm vs 11.60 mm). The average smartwatch thickness is 11.60 mm.
    • No call answering
      Garmin Vivoactive 4S does not support call answering, the average smartwatch does. 57% of smartwatches support call answering.
      Call can be answered/managed, but conversation audio is on phone/headset.
    • No voice commands
      Garmin Vivoactive 4S does not support voice commands, the average smartwatch does. 64.5% of smartwatches support voice commands.
    • No voice assistant
      Garmin Vivoactive 4S does not support voice assistants, the average smartwatch does. 68% of smartwatches support voice assistants.
      Availability depends on paired phone and/or regional support.
    • No speaker
      Garmin Vivoactive 4S does not include a built-in speaker, the average smartwatch does. 54.7% of smartwatches include a built-in speaker.
    • 1 fewer microphones
      Garmin Vivoactive 4S has fewer microphones than the average smartwatch (0 vs 1). The average smartwatch includes 1 microphones.
    • 2 year/s older release date
      Garmin Vivoactive 4S is an older model than the average smartwatch (2,019 vs 2,021). The average smartwatch was released in 2,021.
      September 2,019
    • No speaker
      Garmin Vivoactive 4S does not include a built-in speaker, the average smartwatch does. 54.7% of smartwatches include a built-in speaker.
      What it is: An onboard speaker for calls, prompts, alarms, or media playback.
      When it matters: When you want audio, calls, or voice features on the watch itself.

      Importance: LOW

      Garmin Vivoactive 4S does not include a built-in speaker, the average smartwatch does. 54.7% of smartwatches include a built-in speaker.
    • Basic display type
      Garmin Vivoactive 4S uses MIP LCD display technology, while the average smartwatch features AMOLED.
      What it is: The screen technology used by the watch, such as AMOLED, OLED, or memory-in-pixel LCD.
      When it matters: When you want the screen to be easy to read at a glance.

      Importance: HIGH

      Garmin Vivoactive 4S uses MIP LCD display technology, while the average smartwatch features AMOLED.MIP LCD vs AMOLED
    • 0.3 inch smaller screen size
      Garmin Vivoactive 4S has a smaller screen size than the average smartwatch (1.1 inch vs 1.40 inch). The average smartwatch screen is 1.40 inch.
      What it is: The diagonal measurement of the visible display area, usually expressed in inches.
      When it matters: When you want the screen to be easy to read at a glance.

      Importance: HIGH

      Good value: >=1.5 inch

      Garmin Vivoactive 4S has a smaller screen size than the average smartwatch (1.1 inch vs 1.40 inch). The average smartwatch screen is 1.40 inch.1.10 inch vs 1.40 inch
    • No call answering
      Garmin Vivoactive 4S does not support call answering, the average smartwatch does. 57% of smartwatches support call answering.
      Call can be answered/managed, but conversation audio is on phone/headset.
      What it is: The ability to answer an incoming call directly from the watch.
      When it matters: When you want to handle calls or alerts without taking out your phone.

      Importance: LOW

      Garmin Vivoactive 4S does not support call answering, the average smartwatch does. 57% of smartwatches support call answering.
    • No voice commands
      Garmin Vivoactive 4S does not support voice commands, the average smartwatch does. 64.5% of smartwatches support voice commands.
      What it is: The ability to control functions or start actions using spoken commands.
      When it matters: When you want to control the watch or reply without typing.

      Importance: MEDIUM

      Garmin Vivoactive 4S does not support voice commands, the average smartwatch does. 64.5% of smartwatches support voice commands.
    • No voice assistant
      Garmin Vivoactive 4S does not support voice assistants, the average smartwatch does. 68% of smartwatches support voice assistants.
      Availability depends on paired phone and/or regional support.
      What it is: Support for a voice assistant that can answer queries or trigger actions from the wrist.
      When it matters: When you want to control the watch or reply without typing.

      Importance: MEDIUM

      Garmin Vivoactive 4S does not support voice assistants, the average smartwatch does. 68% of smartwatches support voice assistants.
    • Lower resolution
      Garmin Vivoactive 4S has a display resolution of 218x 218, while the average smartwatch reaches 352x 430.
      What it is: The total number of pixels available on the watch display.
      When it matters: When you want the screen to be easy to read at a glance.

      Importance: MEDIUM

      Good value: >=416 x 416

      Garmin Vivoactive 4S has a display resolution of 218x 218, while the average smartwatch reaches 352x 430.218x 218 vs 352x 430
    • 1 fewer microphones
      Garmin Vivoactive 4S has fewer microphones than the average smartwatch (0 vs 1). The average smartwatch includes 1 microphones.
      What it is: The count of microphones built into the watch.
      When it matters: When you want audio, calls, or voice features on the watch itself.

      Importance: LOW

      Good value: >=2

      Garmin Vivoactive 4S has fewer microphones than the average smartwatch (0 vs 1). The average smartwatch includes 1 microphones.0 vs 1
    Total
    Overall
    Fitness
    Battery
    Display & Design
    Smart features
    Hardware

    Graphic comparison of Garmin Vivoactive 4S and other Smartwatches

    Attribute category
    Attribute
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    Third-party reviews

    amazon
    4.2
    124 Reviews
    amazon
    4.4
    74 Reviews
    amazon
    2.8
    6 Reviews

    (Reviews last updated: Apr 2026)

    What customers like about Garmin Vivoactive 4S?

    • Sleek and stylish design suitable for everyday and formal wear
    • Compact and lightweight 40mm size, ideal for smaller wrists
    • Comprehensive health tracking including Body Battery, Pulse Ox, and sleep monitoring
    • Transflective display is highly legible in direct sunlight and always-on
    • Wide range of 20+ preloaded sports apps and on-screen animated workouts
    • Standard music storage with support for offline Spotify and Deezer playlists

    What customers dislike about Garmin Vivoactive 4S?

    • Battery life is shorter than the larger Vivoactive 4 and often doesn't reach the advertised 7 days
    • Display quality is often described as dull, pixelated, or low-contrast indoors
    • Frequent connectivity issues reported with Bluetooth headphones and smartphone syncing
    • GPS can sometimes take several minutes to lock or show inaccuracies over time
    • Sleep tracking accuracy is occasionally questioned by users
    • Garmin Pay has limited bank support in certain regions like the UK and Canada

    Expert reviews

    U
    uk.pcmag.com
    04/05/2020
    Garmin Vivoactive 4 - Review 2020 - PCMag UK

    The Garmin vivoactive 4 is recognized as a top-tier hybrid smartwatch, earning an Editors' Choice award for blending comprehensive, advanced fitness metrics—including respiration and pulse oximetry tracking—with daily, independent smartwatch functionality like GPS and music storage. It is highly regarded for its on-screen workout animations for yoga and Pilates, as well as...Read more

    E
    expertreviews.co.uk
    13/07/2023
    Expert Reviews: Garmin Vivoactive 4/4S review: Another outstanding sports watch

    The Garmin Vivoactive 4 is a versatile, fitness-focused smartwatch featuring an improved two-button interface, available in 45mm and 40mm (4S) sizes for better fit. It adds valuable features like onboard music storage for Spotify/Deezer, animated on-screen workouts, and enhanced health tracking including SpO2 and "Body Battery". While praised for its comprehensive tracking and...Read more

    H
    hannahbrenchercreative.com
    04/08/2020
    Hannah Brencher Creative: My no-nonsense review of the Garmin VivoActive 4S

    Hannah Brencher reviews the Garmin VivoActive 4S as a highly effective, data-driven tool for tracking daily health habits and encouraging intentional self-care, particularly through its comprehensive activity monitoring capabilities. Key advantages include the seamless water intake tracker for addressing dehydration, alongside detailed data on workouts, calories burned, heart rate...Read more

    A
    arstechnica.com
    01/10/2019
    Ars Technica: Garmin Vivoactive 4s review: So many fitness features, so little time

    The Garmin Vivoactive 4S is a fitness-focused smartwatch that prioritizes comprehensive health metrics, such as all-day pulse ox measurements and on-screen animated workouts, over traditional smart features. While it functions as a solid health tracker with a 40mm case suitable for smaller wrists, the transflective display lacks the vibrant quality of OLED competitors. Key pros...Read more

    H
    heise.de
    01/07/2020
    Garmin Vivoactive 4s Review: Small Watch, Big Technology

    The Garmin vivoactive 4S is a compact, 40mm GPS smartwatch designed for daily wear, featuring a durable build with a fiber-reinforced polymer case and stainless steel bezel, according to a review on heise.de. It provides extensive, high-end fitness tracking, including on-screen animated workouts for yoga and Pilates, alongside comprehensive metrics like Body Battery and Pulse Ox....Read more

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    C
    computerbild.de
    04/11/2019
    Garmin Vivoactive 4S Review: What Can This Fitness Smartwatch Do?

    The Computer Bild review highlights the Garmin Vivoactive 4S as a compact, specialized fitness watch featuring a sunlight-legible MIP display, though it lacks the vibrancy of OLED and has a sometimes sluggish touchscreen. Key advantages include comprehensive health tracking with animated on-screen workouts, NFC payments, and improved dual-button navigation. Drawbacks identified...Read more

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    H
    happyface313.com
    29/07/2020
    Garmin Vivoactive 4S Review

    The Garmin Vivoactive 4S is reviewed as a stylish, compact 40mm smartwatch featuring a 5 ATM water rating, a 7-day battery life, and comprehensive health tracking including heart rate and blood oxygen monitoring. Key pros highlighted include the intuitive Body Battery energy manager, a hydration tracker, the "Move Bar" inactivity alert, and practical features like Garmin Pay and...Read more

    (Translated)Show original
    I
    inside-digital.de
    16/04/2026
    Garmin vivoactive 4S Datasheet & Review Summary

    The Garmin vívoactive 4S is a compact 40mm smartwatch designed for smaller wrists, offering a blend of daily smart features and comprehensive fitness tracking with a highly legible, always-on transflective MIP display. It excels in health monitoring with features like "Body Battery," stress tracking, and Pulse Ox, while adding a second physical button for improved navigation during...Read more

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    F
    fitnessmodern.de
    27/01/2025
    Garmin Vivoactive 4 Review

    The FitnessModern.de review positions the Garmin Vivoactive 4 as a versatile, mid-range smartwatch that bridges the gap between fitness trackers and lifestyle devices, highlighting improved navigation with two physical buttons. Key strengths include on-screen animated workouts, excellent sunlight visibility via the transflective display, and comprehensive health monitoring, such as...Read more

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    R
    runnersworld.de
    07/04/2021
    Garmin Vivoactive 4 - Runner's World (Review of the series including 4S)

    The Garmin vivoactive 4 is a versatile GPS smartwatch featuring a sleek design with a stainless steel bezel and an improved dual-button interface for easier navigation. Pros highlighted in the review include integrated music storage, Garmin Pay, and comprehensive health tracking like Body Battery and Pulse Ox. A notable con is the touchscreen's occasional unresponsiveness during...Read more

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    C
    chip.de
    02/04/2020
    Garmin Vivoactive 4 Review (including S-version mention)

    The CHIP.de review identifies the Garmin Vivoactive 4 as a high-performance fitness tracker, praised for its exceptional 98.9% step-counting accuracy and advanced features like Pulse-Ox monitoring and the "Body Battery" index. It excels with a highly legible transflective display, 8-day battery life, and comprehensive tracking, including onboard music and NFC payments. Despite these...Read more

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    P
    pocketnavigation.de
    06/03/2020
    Garmin Venu and vivoactive 4 Review | Fitness Smartwatch Comparison

    The Garmin Venu and Vivoactive 4 share nearly identical fitness tracking capabilities and software, featuring Pulse Ox and Body Battery, but differ primarily in display technology. The Venu boasts a vibrant, high-resolution AMOLED screen, while the Vivoactive 4 utilizes a transflective memory-in-pixel (MIP) display, offering superior sunlight readability and always-on functionality....Read more

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    O
    outdoortest.info
    03/12/2020
    Garmin Vivoactive 4s – Reliable Tracker for Outdoor Sports

    The OutdoorTest.info review identifies the Garmin Vivoactive 4S as a durable, 40mm GPS smartwatch tailored for smaller wrists, offering a robust blend of daily functionality and outdoor sports tracking. Key strengths include a high-quality design with a stainless steel bezel, Gorilla Glass 3, and a sunlight-readable transflective memory-in-pixel (MIP) display. Additionally, the...Read more

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    S
    sport-passion.fr
    07 septembre 2019
    Garmin Vivoactive 4: Detailed Review, Opinions, and Everything You Need to Know

    The Sport-Passion review characterizes the Garmin Vivoactive 4 as a versatile, stylish smartwatch that effectively merges advanced fitness tracking with everyday functionality. Available in 45mm and 40mm (4S) sizes, it features a durable stainless steel bezel and a sunlight-readable, transflective MIP display. Key advantages include integrated music storage, Garmin Pay, and a new...Read more

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    O
    outzer.fr
    02/07/2020
    Garmin Vivoactive 4s 2020 Review - Outzer

    According to a user review on Outzer, the Garmin Vivoactive 4S is a versatile, intuitive 40mm smartwatch ideal for various indoor and outdoor activities. Key pros include precise GPS tracking for sports like skiing and running, comprehensive health monitoring (heart rate, Pulse Ox), and the LiveTrack safety feature. However, the review notes some drawbacks, particularly regarding...Read more

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    O
    outzer.fr
    23/06/2022
    Avis Garmin Vivoactive 4s 2020

    The Garmin vivoactive 4S is a compact, 40mm GPS smartwatch tailored for smaller wrists, offering a blend of comprehensive 24/7 health tracking (heart rate, Pulse Ox, Body Battery) and on-screen animated workouts for yoga and strength training. Key advantages include its lightweight design, excellent sunlight-readable display, and standard features like Garmin Pay and music storage....Read more

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    N
    nakan.ch
    02/12/2019
    Garmin Vivoactive 4: Put to the ultimate test

    The 2019 Nakan.ch review highlights the Garmin Vívoactive 4 as a versatile lifestyle sports watch that introduces a much-needed second physical button for improved navigation and offers two distinct sizing options. It features advanced health tracking, including on-screen animated workouts for yoga and Pilates, alongside comprehensive sensor suites like Pulse Ox and body battery....Read more

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    O
    outzer.fr
    14 juillet 2020
    Garmin Vivoactive 4s Review 2020 - Outzer

    The Garmin Vivoactive 4S is a compact 40mm GPS smartwatch tailored for smaller wrists, acting as a bridge between a casual lifestyle accessory and a high-performance sports tracker. Featuring an always-on memory-in-pixel (MIP) display that excels in direct sunlight, the device improves navigation with a two-button design. Pros include extensive health monitoring like Pulse Ox and...Read more

    (Translated)Show original
    R
    runagora.fr
    13 septembre 2019
    Garmin Vivoactive 4S Review/Test - Runagora

    The Garmin vívoactive 4S is a compact 40mm GPS smartwatch tailored for smaller wrists, offering a blend of daily activity tracking and lifestyle features, according to Runagora. Key advantages include its lightweight design, extensive tracking for running, swimming, yoga, and pilates, and integrated features like music storage and Garmin Pay. Users appreciate the 24/7 health...Read more

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    L
    lesnumeriques.com
    25 octobre 2019
    Garmin Vivoactive 4 Review: A sleek and effective sports watch

    The Garmin Vivoactive 4 is recognized by Les Numériques as a sober, effective sports watch with a durable build, comfortable design, and precise heart rate monitoring (1% error margin). While it features a reliable GPS, the review highlights a convoluted user interface and unreliable sleep tracking that often confuses sedentary behavior with sleep. Battery life is generally good,...Read more

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    M
    montre-cardio-gps.fr
    24 novembre 2019
    Garmin Vivoactive 4 Review: Versatility and Improved Interface

    The Garmin Vivoactive 4 is a versatile GPS smartwatch bridging daily wear and sports tracking, featuring a new two-button design and available in two sizes (45mm/40mm). It offers advanced health features like Body Battery, Pulse Ox, and offline music, alongside animated on-screen workouts, with highly accurate GPS and altimeter tracking. However, it lacks in-depth performance...Read more

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    H
    hardloopzone.nl
    Onbekend
    Garmin Vivoactive 4/4S Review - Hardloopzone.nl

    The Hardloopzone.nl review positions the Garmin Vivoactive 4 and 4s as versatile, fitness-focused smartwatches featuring a refined two-button design, Pulse Ox, and Body Battery monitoring. Pros include on-screen workout animations for diverse activities, integrated Garmin Pay, and music storage, alongside excellent outdoor visibility. Conversely, the review notes cons like a dim...Read more

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    I
    id.nl
    09/04/2020
    Garmin Vivoactive 4S Review - ID.nl

    The Garmin Vivoactive 4S is a specialized, mid-range smartwatch designed for smaller wrists, emphasizing comprehensive health tracking—such as Body Battery, blood oxygen, and heart rate monitoring—over deep phone integration. Its design features a comfortable, round form factor with a highly readable transflective display that performs well in direct sunlight. Key advantages include...Read more

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    F
    fenit.nl
    10/01/2023
    Garmin Vivoactive 4S Review [2026 update]

    The Garmin Vivoactive 4S is a compact, 40mm GPS smartwatch tailored for smaller wrists, featuring a stylish design with a stainless steel bezel and a 40g, comfortable frame for 24/7 wear. It includes an always-on, sunlight-readable transflective display, built-in music storage, and a dual-button interface that improves navigation over previous models. The watch tracks comprehensive...Read more

    (Translated)Show original
    S
    sponsorkliks.com
    Onbekend
    Garmin Vivoactive 4S - SponsorKliks Review

    The Garmin Vivoactive 4S is a compact, 40mm GPS smartwatch designed for comprehensive health tracking, featuring updated sensors for heart rate, Pulse Ox, and stress monitoring. It offers notable functionality improvements, including onboard music storage, 5 ATM water resistance, and animated on-screen workouts for yoga and Pilates. Key limitations include significantly reduced...Read more

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