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Garmin Vivoactive 5 Review | 126 Data compared

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  • Avg. price: ~£180
  • Screen size: 1.20 inch
  • Battery life: 11 day/s
  • Display type: AMOLED

Garmin Vivoactive 5 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%

7.1

Technical Score

10.0%

8.5

User score

Very good
7.1

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%

7.7

Health

21.0%

7.2

Fitness

16.0%

5.5

Battery

14.0%

7.6

Smart features

12.0%

7.5

Connectivity

9.0%

8.0

Display & Design

4.0%

5.1

Hardware

Very good
8.5

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%

9.2

User reviews

30.0%

6.9

Popularity

User score:
amazon
4.7
(221)
amazon
4.2
(48)
amazon
4.5
(9)
amazon
4.7
(5)

(Reviews last updated: Apr 2026)

Excellent
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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 5

    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%

    7.7

    Health

    21.0%

    7.2

    Fitness

    16.0%

    5.5

    Battery

    14.0%

    7.6

    Smart features

    12.0%

    7.5

    Connectivity

    9.0%

    8.0

    Display & Design

    4.0%

    5.1

    Hardware

    7.1
    Garmin Vivoactive 5 has a technical score of 7.1 points, which is higher than 70.7% 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%

    9.2

    User reviews

    30.0%

    6.9

    Popularity

    User score:
    amazon
    4.7
    (221)
    amazon
    4.2
    (48)
    amazon
    4.5
    (9)
    amazon
    4.7
    (5)

    (Reviews last updated: Apr 2026)

    8.5
    Garmin Vivoactive 5 has a user score of 8.53 points, which is higher than 79.1% 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.
    6.9
    Garmin Vivoactive 5 has a popularity of 6.9 points, which is higher than 66.7% 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 5 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 5 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 5 supports blood oxygen monitoring. 64.4% of smartwatches support blood oxygen monitoring.
    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 5 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 5 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 5 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

    no
    Garmin Vivoactive 5 does not include 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

    no
    Garmin Vivoactive 5 does not include 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 5 includes a cadence sensor. 20.1% of smartwatches include a cadence sensor.
    Cadence may require external sensor/app pairing on some models.
    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 5 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

    11 day/s
    Garmin Vivoactive 5 offers a battery life of 11 day/s which is longer than that of 70.3% of smartwatches and equal to that of 2% of smartwatches.
    Up to 36 hours with battery saver mode or 24 hours with always-on.
    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

    21 h
    Garmin Vivoactive 5 lasts 21 h in training mode which is longer than 53.6% of smartwatches and equal to that of 1.9% 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

    18 h
    Garmin Vivoactive 5 lasts 18 h with GPS on which is shorter than 55% of smartwatches and equal to that of 1.6% 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

    205 mAh
    Garmin Vivoactive 5 has a battery capacity of 205 mAh which is smaller than the batteries in 86.2% of smartwatches and equal to those in 1.5% 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

    98 min
    Garmin Vivoactive 5 charges in 98 min which is faster than 62.4% of smartwatches of smartwatches.
    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 5 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 5 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 5 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 5 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 5 does not support voice assistants. 68% of smartwatches support voice assistants.
    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 5 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 5 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 5 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 5 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

    1.20 inch
    Garmin Vivoactive 5 has a screen size of 1.20 inch which is smaller than the screens of 85.5% of smartwatches and equal to those of 7.8% 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

    AMOLED
    Garmin Vivoactive 5 uses a AMOLED display type which is more advanced than that of 48.8% of smartwatches and the same as that of 51.3% 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

    390 x 390
    Garmin Vivoactive 5 has a display resolution of 390 x 390 which is higher than that of 60.9% of smartwatches and equal to that of 6.1% 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

    460 ppi
    Garmin Vivoactive 5 has a pixel density of 460 ppi which is higher than that of 79.5% of smartwatches and equal to that of 5% 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

    4 GB
    Garmin Vivoactive 5 has 4 GB of RAM which is larger than the RAM in 86.5% of smartwatches and equal to that of 4.1% of smartwatches.
    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 5 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 5 does not include an external memory slot. 0.3% of smartwatches include an external memory slot.
    Show more

    Garmin Vivoactive 5 vs the average smartwatch

    • Has NFC
      Garmin Vivoactive 5 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 5 supports NFC, the average smartwatch does not. 42.5% of smartwatches support NFC.
    • Has temperature sensor
      Garmin Vivoactive 5 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 5 includes a temperature sensor, the average smartwatch does not. 22.3% of smartwatches include a temperature sensor.
    • Has HRV tracking
      Garmin Vivoactive 5 supports HRV tracking, the average smartwatch does not. 38.2% of smartwatches support HRV tracking.
      HRV may be estimated from sleep/stress methods and not medical-grade.
      What it is: Measurement of heart-rate variability, the change in timing between heartbeats.
      When it matters: When you want health data from your wrist during the day or night.

      Importance: MEDIUM

      Garmin Vivoactive 5 supports HRV tracking, the average smartwatch does not. 38.2% of smartwatches support HRV tracking.
    • Includes crash detection
      Garmin Vivoactive 5 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 5 supports crash detection, the average smartwatch does not. 11.5% of smartwatches support crash detection.
    • Supports Emergency SOS
      Garmin Vivoactive 5 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 5 includes Emergency SOS, the average smartwatch does not. 42.4% of smartwatches include Emergency SOS.
    • 3 GB more RAM
      Garmin Vivoactive 5 has more RAM than the average smartwatch (4 GB vs 1 GB). The average smartwatch includes 1 GB of 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

      Garmin Vivoactive 5 has more RAM than the average smartwatch (4 GB vs 1 GB). The average smartwatch includes 1 GB of RAM.4 GB vs 1 GB
    • More advanced operating system
      Garmin Vivoactive 5 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 5 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 5 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 5 measures VO2 max, the average smartwatch does not. 49.3% of smartwatches measure VO2 max.
    • Has temperature sensor
      Garmin Vivoactive 5 includes a temperature sensor, the average smartwatch does not. 22.3% of smartwatches include a temperature sensor.
    • Has HRV tracking
      Garmin Vivoactive 5 supports HRV tracking, the average smartwatch does not. 38.2% of smartwatches support HRV tracking.
    • Supports VO2 max
      Garmin Vivoactive 5 measures VO2 max, the average smartwatch does not. 49.3% of smartwatches measure VO2 max.
    • Has irregular heart alerts
      Garmin Vivoactive 5 supports irregular heart rate warnings, the average smartwatch does not. 43.7% of smartwatches support irregular heart rate warnings.
    • Has sweat tracking
      Garmin Vivoactive 5 tracks perspiration, the average smartwatch does not. 11% of smartwatches track perspiration.
    • Supports calorie tracking
      Garmin Vivoactive 5 supports calorie tracking, the average smartwatch does not. 43.8% of smartwatches support calorie tracking.
    • Has weight tracking
      Garmin Vivoactive 5 supports weight tracking, the average smartwatch does not. 39.2% of smartwatches support weight tracking.
    • Supports water intake tracking
      Garmin Vivoactive 5 tracks water intake, the average smartwatch does not. 48.2% of smartwatches track water intake.
    • Has cadence sensor
      Garmin Vivoactive 5 includes a cadence sensor, the average smartwatch does not. 20.1% of smartwatches include a cadence sensor.
    • Has external HR monitor
      Garmin Vivoactive 5 supports external heart rate monitor compatibility, the average smartwatch does not. 41.3% of smartwatches support external heart rate monitor compatibility.
    • 4 day/s longer battery life
      Garmin Vivoactive 5 offers 11 day/s of battery life, while the average smartwatch offers 7 day/s.
    • 22 min shorter charge time
      Garmin Vivoactive 5 charges faster than the average smartwatch (98 min vs 120 min). The average smartwatch charges in 120 min.
    • Has NFC
      Garmin Vivoactive 5 supports NFC, the average smartwatch does not. 42.5% of smartwatches support NFC.
    • Has compass
      Garmin Vivoactive 5 includes a compass, the average smartwatch does not. 49.3% of smartwatches include a compass.
    • Supports Wi-Fi
      Garmin Vivoactive 5 supports Wi-Fi, the average smartwatch does not. 43.4% of smartwatches support Wi-Fi.
    • Supports ANT+
      Garmin Vivoactive 5 supports ANT+, the average smartwatch does not. 9.5% of smartwatches support ANT+.
    • Supports Galileo
      Garmin Vivoactive 5 supports Galileo navigation, the average smartwatch does not. 38.7% of smartwatches support Galileo navigation.
    • Newer Bluetooth version
      Garmin Vivoactive 5 supports a newer Bluetooth version than the average smartwatch (5.2 vs 5.0). The average smartwatch uses 5.0.
    • Stronger display glass
      Garmin Vivoactive 5 uses Corning Gorilla Glass 3 display glass, while the average smartwatch uses mineral glass.
    • 134 ppi higher pixel density
      Garmin Vivoactive 5 has a higher pixel density than the average smartwatch (460 ppi vs 326 ppi). The average smartwatch display reaches 326 ppi.
    • 9 g lighter weight
      Garmin Vivoactive 5 is lighter than the average smartwatch (36 g vs 45 g). The average smartwatch weighs 45 g.
    • Includes crash detection
      Garmin Vivoactive 5 supports crash detection, the average smartwatch does not. 11.5% of smartwatches support crash detection.
    • Supports Emergency SOS
      Garmin Vivoactive 5 includes Emergency SOS, the average smartwatch does not. 42.4% of smartwatches include Emergency SOS.
    • More advanced operating system
      Garmin Vivoactive 5 runs a more advanced operating system than the average smartwatch (Garmin OS vs Proprietary OS).
    • Supports third-party apps
      Garmin Vivoactive 5 supports third-party apps, the average smartwatch does not. 47.6% of smartwatches support third-party apps.
    • More frequent updates
      Garmin Vivoactive 5 receives occasional software updates, while the average smartwatch receives ended updates.
    • 3 GB more RAM
      Garmin Vivoactive 5 has more RAM than the average smartwatch (4 GB vs 1 GB). The average smartwatch includes 1 GB of RAM.
    • 2 year/s newer release date
      Garmin Vivoactive 5 has a newer release date than the average smartwatch (2023 vs 2021). The average smartwatch was released in 2021.

    Total
    Overall
    Health
    Fitness
    Battery
    Connectivity
    Display & Design
    Smart features
    Hardware
    • No elevation tracking
      Garmin Vivoactive 5 does not support elevation tracking, the average smartwatch does. 62.7% of smartwatches support elevation tracking.
    • No gyroscope
      Garmin Vivoactive 5 does not include a gyroscope, the average smartwatch does. 64.6% of smartwatches include a gyroscope.
    • No route tracking
      Garmin Vivoactive 5 does not support route tracking, the average smartwatch does. 75.7% of smartwatches support route tracking.
    • No routes
      Garmin Vivoactive 5 does not support route support, the average smartwatch does. 50.4% of smartwatches support route support.
    • 50 fewer exercise profiles
      Garmin Vivoactive 5 supports fewer exercise modes than the average smartwatch (30 vs 80). The average smartwatch supports 80 exercise modes.
      Reported as at least 30 exercise modes.
    • 95 mAh smaller battery capacity
      Garmin Vivoactive 5 has a smaller battery capacity than the average smartwatch (205 mAh vs 300 mAh). The average smartwatch battery is 300 mAh.
    • 0.2 inch smaller screen size
      Garmin Vivoactive 5 has a smaller screen size than the average smartwatch (1.2 inch vs 1.40 inch). The average smartwatch screen is 1.40 inch.
    • No call answering
      Garmin Vivoactive 5 does not support call answering, the average smartwatch does. 57% of smartwatches support call answering.
    • No voice commands
      Garmin Vivoactive 5 does not support voice commands, the average smartwatch does. 64.5% of smartwatches support voice commands.
    • No voice assistant
      Garmin Vivoactive 5 does not support voice assistants, the average smartwatch does. 68% of smartwatches support voice assistants.
    • No camera remote control
      Garmin Vivoactive 5 does not include built-in camera remote control, the average smartwatch does. 85.2% of smartwatches that are equipped with a camera include built-in camera remote control.
      Not built-in; available only via third-party apps.
    • No speaker
      Garmin Vivoactive 5 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 5 has fewer microphones than the average smartwatch (0 vs 1). The average smartwatch includes 1 microphones.
    • No speaker
      Garmin Vivoactive 5 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 5 does not include a built-in speaker, the average smartwatch does. 54.7% of smartwatches include a built-in speaker.
    • No elevation tracking
      Garmin Vivoactive 5 does not support elevation tracking, the average smartwatch does. 62.7% of smartwatches support elevation tracking.
      What it is: Tracking of climbed, descended, or current elevation during activities.
      When it matters: When you run, ride, hike, or navigate without relying on your phone.

      Importance: MEDIUM

      Garmin Vivoactive 5 does not support elevation tracking, the average smartwatch does. 62.7% of smartwatches support elevation tracking.
    • No gyroscope
      Garmin Vivoactive 5 does not include a gyroscope, the average smartwatch does. 64.6% of smartwatches include a 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

      Garmin Vivoactive 5 does not include a gyroscope, the average smartwatch does. 64.6% of smartwatches include a gyroscope.
    • No route tracking
      Garmin Vivoactive 5 does not support route tracking, the average smartwatch does. 75.7% of smartwatches support route tracking.
      What it is: Route recording that stores the path taken during an outdoor session.
      When it matters: When you run, ride, hike, or navigate without relying on your phone.

      Importance: MEDIUM

      Garmin Vivoactive 5 does not support route tracking, the average smartwatch does. 75.7% of smartwatches support route tracking.
    • No call answering
      Garmin Vivoactive 5 does not support call answering, the average smartwatch does. 57% of smartwatches support call answering.
      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 5 does not support call answering, the average smartwatch does. 57% of smartwatches support call answering.
    • 0.2 inch smaller screen size
      Garmin Vivoactive 5 has a smaller screen size than the average smartwatch (1.2 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 5 has a smaller screen size than the average smartwatch (1.2 inch vs 1.40 inch). The average smartwatch screen is 1.40 inch.1.20 inch vs 1.40 inch
    • No voice commands
      Garmin Vivoactive 5 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 5 does not support voice commands, the average smartwatch does. 64.5% of smartwatches support voice commands.
    • No voice assistant
      Garmin Vivoactive 5 does not support voice assistants, the average smartwatch does. 68% of smartwatches support voice assistants.
      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 5 does not support voice assistants, the average smartwatch does. 68% of smartwatches support voice assistants.
    Total
    Fitness
    Battery
    Display & Design
    Smart features
    Hardware

    Graphic comparison of Garmin Vivoactive 5 and other Smartwatches

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    Third-party reviews

    amazon
    4.7
    221 Reviews
    amazon
    4.2
    48 Reviews
    amazon
    4.5
    9 Reviews
    amazon
    4.7
    5 Reviews

    (Reviews last updated: Apr 2026)

    What customers like about Garmin Vivoactive 5?

    • Vibrant and responsive AMOLED touchscreen display
    • Excellent battery life, typically lasting 7–11 days in smartwatch mode
    • Accurate heart rate (Gen 4 sensor) and GPS tracking for most activities
    • Comprehensive wellness features including Body Battery, Nap Detection, and Sleep Coach
    • Lightweight and comfortable design suitable for 24/7 wear
    • Support for phone-free music (Spotify, Amazon Music) and Garmin Pay

    What customers dislike about Garmin Vivoactive 5?

    • No barometric altimeter, meaning it cannot track floors climbed or provide precise elevation data
    • Lacks a speaker and microphone for taking calls or using voice assistants on the wrist
    • Build quality feels less premium (plastic/polymer case) compared to previous stainless steel models
    • Available in only one size (42mm), which may not suit all wrist types
    • Limited advanced training metrics like Training Readiness or daily suggested workouts found on Forerunner models
    • Touchscreen can be difficult to use in wet conditions or while wearing gloves

    Expert reviews

    C
    coolblue.de
    07/10/2025
    Expert review of the Garmin Vivoactive 5

    The Garmin Vivoactive 5 is a lightweight, 42mm smartwatch tailored for beginners, featuring a bright AMOLED screen and a strong battery life of 7 to 11 days. It excels in comprehensive daily health and activity tracking, including sleep analysis, the "Body Battery" monitor, and convenient features like Garmin Pay and music. However, the device lacks a barometric altimeter for...Read more

    A
    androidpolice.com
    15/11/2023
    Garmin Vivoactive 5 review: AMOLED all the things

    The Garmin vívoactive 5 is a versatile, fitness-focused smartwatch featuring a vibrant 1.2-inch AMOLED display and a lightweight, comfortable 42mm design. It delivers accurate GPS and heart rate tracking comparable to higher-end models, offering 30+ sports apps, sleep coaching, and Body Battery insights. Pros include an impressive 11-day battery life, while cons involve the lack of...Read more

    W
    wareable.com
    12/10/2023
    Garmin Vivoactive 5 review

    The Garmin Vivoactive 5, reviewed by Wareable, serves as a more affordable, health-focused alternative to the Venu 3, featuring a vibrant AMOLED touchscreen and a lightweight, comfortable design. The device boasts accurate GPS and heart rate monitoring, alongside in-depth insights like Body Battery, HRV Status, and a new Sleep Coach, say the reviewers. However, notable drawbacks...Read more

    D
    dcrainmaker.com
    20/09/2023
    Garmin Vivoactive 5 In-Depth Review

    The Garmin Vivoactive 5, as reviewed by DC Rainmaker, transitions to a vibrant AMOLED display while bridging the gap between fitness trackers and smartwatches with premium health features like Sleep Coach and HRV Status. It offers 24/7 metrics at a $299 price point, effectively acting as a more accessible alternative to the Venu 3 series. Key strengths include excellent GPS...Read more

    G
    garagegymreviews.com
    15/10/2024
    Garmin vivoactive 5 Review: Expert-Tested (2026) - Garage Gym Reviews

    The Garmin Vivoactive 5 is described as a versatile, lightweight (36g) mid-range smartwatch featuring a clear 1.2-inch AMOLED display and a highly adjustable band. It offers robust health monitoring, including over 30 sport modes, a specialized wheelchair mode, and impressive 11-day battery life. While offering solid, user-friendly tracking for $300, the watch lacks a barometric...Read more

    W
    womanandhome.com
    14/09/2024
    Garmin Vivoactive 5 review: 'The perfect beginner's tracker' - Woman & Home

    The Garmin Vivoactive 5 is characterized by Woman & Home as a versatile, entry-level fitness tracker featuring a vibrant 1.2-inch AMOLED display and a lightweight 42mm design suitable for 24/7 wear. Key strengths include advanced health metrics, such as accurate heart rate and GPS tracking, along with 30+ sports modes, sleep coaching, and a significant 11-day battery life....Read more

    T
    techgearlab.com
    13/08/2024
    Garmin Vivoactive 5 Review | Tested & Rated - TechGearLab

    The Garmin Vivoactive 5 is a lightweight, comfortable fitness tracker featuring a vibrant AMOLED display and excellent 24/7 wearability, although its plastic body feels less premium than its predecessors. It delivers accurate GPS and heart rate monitoring with up to 11 days of battery life, though it lacks a barometric altimeter for tracking elevation. While it lacks calling...Read more

    U
    uk.pcmag.com
    04/01/2024
    Garmin Vivoactive 5 - Review 2024 - PCMag UK

    The Garmin Vivoactive 5 is a versatile, wellness-focused smartwatch featuring a vibrant 1.2-inch AMOLED display and an impressive 11-day battery life, bridging the gap between basic trackers and premium sports watches. It offers accurate heart rate monitoring, advanced sleep coaching, automatic nap detection, and a wheelchair mode, alongside over 30 preloaded sports profiles and...Read more

    T
    tomsguide.com
    10/10/2023
    Garmin Vivoactive 5 Review: The Fitness Smartwatch Gets Better Again - Tom's Guide For a detailed, hands-on review, visit Tom's Guide.

    The Tom's Guide review highlights the $299 Garmin Vivoactive 5 as a lightweight, fitness-focused alternative to the Apple Watch SE, featuring a significantly upgraded 1.2-inch AMOLED display. Key strengths include an impressive 11-day battery life, along with advanced health tracking capabilities like Nap Detection, Morning Report, and a specialized wheelchair mode. However, the...Read more

    T
    trustedreviews.com
    28/11/2023
    Garmin Vivoactive 5 Review - Trusted Reviews

    The Garmin Vivoactive 5 is a mid-range fitness smartwatch featuring a vibrant 1.2-inch AMOLED touchscreen and up to 11 days of battery life. It offers extensive health tracking, including Body Battery, HRV monitoring, and specialized features like nap detection and wheelchair tracking. While praised for its, value and features, the device lacks a barometric altimeter for tracking...Read more

    C
    coachweb.com
    10/10/2023
    Garmin Vivoactive 5 Review - Coach

    The Garmin Vivoactive 5 is a value-focused fitness smartwatch featuring a vibrant AMOLED display and, according to Coach, offers a significant, affordable upgrade to the previous model. While praised for its 11-day battery life and reliable GPS, the device faces limitations such as a less accurate heart rate sensor during high-intensity workouts and the absence of a barometric...Read more

    F
    futurezone.at
    27/01/2024
    Garmin Vivoactive 5 Review: What the Affordable Sports Watch Can Do

    The Garmin Vivoactive 5 is a versatile, budget-friendly smartwatch featuring a vibrant 1.2-inch AMOLED display and a lightweight 36g design, making it ideal for casual, health-conscious users [Futurezone]. Key benefits include accurate GPS, comprehensive heart rate monitoring, advanced wellness metrics like HRV status, and a 'Sleep Coach' feature [Futurezone]. Performance pros are...Read more

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    I
    imtest.de
    21/02/2026
    Garmin's best budget sports watch? Vivoactive 5 review

    According to the IMTEST review, the Garmin vívoactive 5 is a versatile, budget-friendly smartwatch featuring a significant upgrade to a vibrant AMOLED display, improving readability. It offers a lightweight, 36-gram polymer design with comfortable silicone straps, making it ideal for 24/7 wear, including detailed sleep tracking. Key features include advanced health monitoring tools...Read more

    (Translated)Show original
    H
    heise.de
    15/05/2024
    Garmin Vivoactive 5 Sports Watch Review

    According to a detailed review by Heise Online, the Garmin vivoactive 5 is a versatile fitness smartwatch featuring a vibrant 1.2-inch AMOLED display that offers superior contrast over previous models. Despite this, the watch maintains up to 11 days of battery life in smartwatch mode and includes enhanced health tracking features like nap detection and HRV status. While the device...Read more

    (Translated)Show original
    C
    computerbild.de
    30/05/2024
    Garmin Vivoactive 5 Review: A Good and Affordable Smartwatch?

    The Garmin Vivoactive 5 is a versatile, lightweight mid-range smartwatch featuring a vibrant 1.2-inch AMOLED display and excellent battery life, lasting up to 11 days in standard mode. It excels in health monitoring with accurate heart rate, GPS, sleep coaching, and a new wheelchair mode. However, key compromises include the removal of the barometric altimeter for elevation...Read more

    (Translated)Show original
    C
    chip.de
    02/04/2024
    Garmin Vivoactive 5 Review

    The Garmin Vivoactive 5, reviewed by CHIP.de, modernizes the series with a vibrant AMOLED display, replacing the older memory-in-pixel technology for improved readability. It shines with an extensive health-tracking suite, including Body Battery, stress monitoring, and a new Sleep Coach, all while maintaining a strong battery life of up to 11 days. Key concessions for its price...Read more

    (Translated)Show original
    O
    outzer.fr
    25/08/2025
    Garmin Vivoactive 5 Review 2025: Pros and Cons Summary

    The Garmin vívoactive 5 is a versatile, lightweight smartwatch featuring a vibrant 1.2-inch AMOLED display and strong 11-day battery life, making it a compelling option for daily health tracking. Key pros include accurate heart rate monitoring, advanced sleep coaching, and robust smartwatch features like Garmin Pay, though it lacks a barometric altimeter for tracking elevation and...Read more

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    L
    lesnumeriques.com
    23/09/2023
    Vivoactive 5: Garmin's core expertise in a stylish watch

    The Garmin Vivoactive 5 is a stylish, lightweight smartwatch featuring a vibrant 1.2-inch AMOLED display and a durable design, catering to general users rather than elite athletes. It boasts impressive tracking capabilities for over 30 sports, including specialized modes for swimming and golf, along with comprehensive health monitoring such as advanced "Body Battery" and nap...Read more

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    H
    horloge-du-coureur.fr
    10/12/2025
    Garmin Vivoactive 5: Review & Ratings 2026

    The Garmin Vivoactive 5 is identified as a highly balanced, entry-level, to mid-range smartwatch, featuring a vibrant 1.2-inch AMOLED display and a lightweight 42mm design, according to L'horloge du coureur. It serves as a strong, user-friendly bridge between daily health tracking and fitness, boasting advanced metrics like Body Battery, HRV status, and comprehensive sleep tracking...Read more

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    T
    test-achats.be
    20/09/2023
    GARMIN VIVOACTIVE 5 Review - Specifications and Test Results

    The Garmin Vivoactive 5 is highlighted as a versatile mid-range smartwatch, featuring a vibrant 1.2-inch AMOLED display and a lightweight construction suitable for 24/7 wear, including sleep and Body Battery tracking. It offers impressive, long-lasting battery life of up to 11 days, along with accurate GPS and a wide range of sports profiles, including options for wheelchair users,...Read more

    (Translated)Show original
    R
    runagora.fr
    20/09/2023
    Garmin Vivoactive 5 Heart Rate GPS Review/Test

    The Garmin Vivoactive 5 is an aesthetic, lightweight, and versatile multisport smartwatch bridging the gap between a daily health tracker and a functional, entry-level performance tool, highlighted by its vibrant AMOLED display. Key advantages include a strong battery life (7 to 11 days), comprehensive health tracking—such as Body Battery and sleep coaching—and convenient features...Read more

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    F
    frandroid.com
    20/09/2023
    Garmin Vivoactive 5 Review: The Best Value Sport and Health Smartwatch?

    According to Frandroid, the Garmin Vivoactive 5 is a high-performing, affordable sports watch featuring a vibrant 1.2-inch AMOLED screen and comprehensive health tracking, earning a 9/10 score. The device offers 11-day battery life, accurate GPS/heart rate monitoring for over 30 sports, and includes modern, specialized features like wheelchair mode and automatic nap detection. While...Read more

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    S
    sport-passion.fr
    21/11/2023
    Venu Sq 2 vs Vivoactive 5 vs Venu 3: Three Successful Smart and Sports Watches

    The Sport Passion review positions the Garmin Venu 3 as the premium choice, highlighting its high-resolution AMOLED display, superior stainless steel build, and advanced features like voice calling, a speaker, and the Elevate Gen 5 heart rate sensor, though at a much higher price point. Positioned as the best value-for-money, the Garmin Vivoactive 5 offers core features like nap...Read more

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    lesalexiens.fr
    24/04/2024
    Garmin Vivoactive 5 Review: A Versatile Sports Watch

    The Garmin Vivoactive 5 is a versatile, lightweight (36g) smartwatch featuring a bright 1.2-inch AMOLED screen and an anodized aluminum bezel, balancing fitness tracking with daily wearability. Pros include comprehensive health monitoring—such as Body Battery, HRV, and sleep/nap tracking—and a robust 11-day battery life. Additionally, it supports music storage and Garmin Pay, making...Read more

    (Translated)Show original
    C
    cnetfrance.fr
    19/01/2024
    Garmin Vivoactive 5 Review: A Serious Competitor for the Apple Watch SE

    The Garmin Vivoactive 5 emerges as a strong, budget-friendly competitor to the Apple Watch SE, featuring a bright 1.2-inch AMOLED display and advanced health tracking like nap detection and Body Battery. It boasts excellent heart rate and GPS accuracy for over 30 sports, making it a capable fitness companion, although it lacks a barometric altimeter for tracking elevation. While...Read more

    (Translated)Show original
    L
    lesnumeriques.com
    05/01/2024
    Garmin Vivoactive 5 Review: A Stylish and Long-Lasting Sports Watch

    The Garmin Vivoactive 5, analyzed by Les Numériques, marks a shift for the series by incorporating a vibrant 1.2-inch AMOLED display and a lightweight, 36g design. Key strengths include improved health tracking with a new "Sleep Coach," nap detection, and an impressive battery life of up to 11 days. However, the watch lacks a barometric altimeter for tracking floor elevation and is...Read more

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    T
    techprincess.it
    25 Gennaio 2024
    Garmin Vivoactive 5 review: sport isn't everything

    failed, ai request

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    C
    consumentenbond.nl
    20/09/2023
    Garmin vívoactive 5 - Slate / Black - Test, Reviews & Prices - Consumers' Association

    The Garmin vívoactive 5 (Slate/Zwart) is a feature-rich, health-focused smartwatch, receiving positive recognition for its vibrant AMOLED display, long battery life, and comprehensive fitness tracking capabilities, including Sleep Coach, Body Battery, and HRV monitoring. Key advantages include its lightweight, 42mm design, music storage, Garmin Pay functionality, and specialized...Read more

    (Translated)Show original
    H
    hardloopzone.nl
    20/09/2023
    Garmin Vivoactive 5 Review - Hardloopzone.nl

    The Garmin Vivoactive 5 is a mid-range, lightweight smartwatch featuring a vibrant AMOLED touchscreen, focusing on essential health tracking like HRV status, Body Battery, and a new Sleep Coach feature. Pros include impressive battery longevity (up to 11 days), automatic nap detection, specialized wheelchair mode, and strong value for money by including core GPS and music features....Read more

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    G
    global.techradar.com
    08/07/2024
    Garmin Vivoactive 5 review

    The Garmin Vivoactive 5 is a high-value, compact fitness smartwatch featuring a vibrant 1.2-inch AMOLED display and a slim 11mm profile, bridging the gap between basic trackers and premium models. It offers extensive tracking for over 30 sports, including specialized modes for golf and swimming, alongside improved sleep coaching and Body Battery energy monitoring. Pros include an...Read more

    (Translated)Show original
    H
    hrdlpn.nl
    14/01/2026
    Garmin Vivoactive 5 Review | Comprehensive Sports Features - HRDLPN

    The Garmin Vivoactive 5, a mid-range sports watch reviewed on HRDLPN.nl, features a vibrant 1.2-inch AMOLED display and a lightweight design suitable for 24/7 wear. Pros include an 11-day battery life, advanced wellness tracking like Body Battery and nap detection, and over 30 sports modes, including wheelchair mode. However, the device lacks a barometric altimeter for tracking...Read more

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