GARMIN’S VENU 3 WATCH IS AN IMPRESSIVE TOOL FOR FITNESS ENTHUSIASTS, OFFERING A RICH LIST OF FEATURES AND ADVANCED METRICS. However, it falls short when it comes to smart features, making it less appealing for those who want a device that can handle everything.
The Power of Garmin’s Devices#
- Garmin’s devices are unrivaled when it comes to fitness tracking accuracy and advanced metrics.
- The Venu 3 offers features like Body Battery, Health Snapshot, Fitness Age, and extensive sports tracking.
- Customization options for workout data screens and niche tools like cycling power meter support are also available.
The Venu 3’s GPS and heart rate sensors are spot on, offering rock-solid reliability whether you’re tracking your daily activities, running trails, cycling urban areas, or taking a coffee break. In fact, during my review, the Venu 3 outperformed some multi-band watches. The heart rate sensor is just as consistent, matching the accuracy of my dedicated heart rate strap.
| Battery Life | 14-day battery life with 1.4-inch AMOLED touchscreen display |
|---|---|
| Battery Life (Heavy Use) | 4-day battery life with GPS tracking |
| Durability | Stainless steel bezel and water resistance up to 5 meters |
The Garmin Ecosystem#
GARMIN’S CONNECT APP IS PACKED WITH STATS AND STREAMLINED, SO YOU NEVER FEEL OVERWHELMED OR LACKING IN DATA. The app is designed to help you track your workouts, analyze your sleep, and monitor your training and recovery.
RECENTLY, GARMIN LAUNCHED GARMIN CONNECT PLUS, WHICH TAKES THINGS UP A NOTCH WITH PERSONALIZED TRAINING PLANS AND DEEPER INSIGHTS. While the app has become more powerful, I was slightly disappointed to see a subscription fee.
GARMIN COACH IS ANOTHER FEATURE THAT SETS GARMIN APART. After a recent fitness hiatus, I’m more interested than ever in custom training plans tailored to my abilities. The running coach and new strength training option have been game-changers for me, and I appreciate how Garmin Coach plans adapt as I improve and crush my goals.
Smart Features Behind the Curve#
- Third-party app compatibility is extremely limited.
- Smart features like notifications, voice assistants, and LTE connectivity are lacking.
- Third-party apps often have limited functionality and don’t integrate with other devices.
FOR ONE, THIRD-PARTY APP COMPATIBILITY IS EXTREMELY LIMITED. You won’t find the massive selection of apps you get on other smartwatches, especially Apple. The ones you do find don’t offer the same integration you’ll get on Wear OS or Apple. I can download a Spotify app from the IQ store, but its functionality is limited, and I can’t add Audible for long walks.
GARMIN DOESN’T HAVE ITS OWN FULLY INTEGRATED ASSISTANT LIKE GOOGLE ASSISTANT OR SIRI. When it comes to notifications, the Venu 3 keeps things simple, but Android users can type responses to texts and view photos on the device. There’s no LTE variant available, and taking calls via Bluetooth is possible but limited.
The Venu 3: Best for Athletics, Not Everyday Wear#
GARMIN MAKES THE BEST SMARTWATCHES FOR ATHLETES. Period. Their focus on fitness tracking, accuracy, and durability is unmatched, and if you’re someone who needs a watch that can handle all your workouts, outdoor adventures, and long-term training goals, you won’t find anything better.
However, if you want a device that can handle both fitness and all the typical smartwatch features—notifications, apps, and voice assistants—then Garmin isn’t quite there yet.
