Garmin’s latest midrange release, the Venu 3, is causing a stir with its innovative features.
But how does it stack up against another favorite in the same category, the Polar Ignite 3?
If you’ve been eyeing both and wondering which one to add to your collection, you’re in luck.
In this article, we’ll dive deep into the world of these two smartwatches, comparing their features head-to-head.
By the end, you’ll have a clearer idea of which watch ticks all the right boxes for you.
Let’s get started!
Garmin Venu 3 vs Polar Ignite 3: Pricing
The Garmin Venu 3 is pegged at $449.99. Given the myriad of features it offers, it’s quite a steal.
Meanwhile, for those more budget-conscious, the Polar Ignite 3 offers a solid alternative at $329.
Where to Buy?
Garmin Venu 3:
- Garmin Venu 3: View on Amazon
- Garmin Venu 3S: View on Amazon
Polar Ignite 3:
- View on Amazon
Garmin Venu 3 vs Polar Ignite 3: Specs Comparison
| Product | Garmin Venu 3 | Polar Ignite 3 |
|---|---|---|
| Design | Shape: Round Body: Fiber-reinforced polymer Strap: Silicone | Shape: Circular Body: Plastic Strap: Silicone |
| Display | 41mm: 1.4 inch AMOLED 45mm: 1.2 inch AMOLED | 1.28 Inch AMOLED |
| Resolution | 41mm: 390 x 390 pixels 45mm: 454 x 454 pixels | 416 x 416 pixels |
| Dimension | 41mm: 41 x 41 x 12 mm 45mm: 45 x 45 x 12 mm | 43 x 43 x 9.5 mm |
| Weight | 41mm: 40 g 45mm: 47 g | 35 grams |
| Storage | 8GB | N/A |
| Connectivity | Bluetooth, ANT+, Wi-Fi | Bluetooth 5.1 |
| Software | Garmin OS | Polar OS |
| Sensors | GARMIN ELEVATE WRIST HEART RATE MONITOR, PULSE OX BLOOD OXYGEN, Altimeter, Compass, Gyroscope, Accelerometer, Ambient Light sensor, Temperature Sensor | Optical heart rate, accelerometer |
| Onboard GPS | GPS/Glonass/Beidou/Galileo | Yes (dual-band) |
| Speaker & Mic | Yes | No |
| Water Resistance | 5ATM | WR30 |
| Battery Life | Smartwatch mode: Up to 14 days (5 days display always-on) Battery Saver Smartwatch mode: Up to 26 days GPS-Only GNSS mode: Up to 26 hours | 215mAh Up to 120 hours |
| Price | Both: $449.99 | $330 |
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Garmin Venu 3 vs Polar Ignite 3: Detailed Review
Design & Display
Style seamlessly merges with function in the design of both these watches. The Venu 3 by Garmin is available in two sizes – the standard 45mm and the more petite 41mm, named Venu 3S.
What’s striking is their AMOLED displays, shielded with the robust Corning Gorilla Glass 3. Ensuring a blend of contemporary style with resilience, the Garmin Venu 3 boasts a stainless steel casing paired with a fiber-reinforced polymer bezel.
In contrast, the Polar Ignite 3 is a marvel of sleekness. It’s feather-light at 37g and incredibly slim at 9.5mm thick.
The 1.28-inch AMOLED display renders sharp, vivid imagery. Plus, with multiple hues available, it allows users to pick one that mirrors their persona.
Health Tracking
These watches do more than just tell time. They’re health companions.
The Venu 3 stands out with features like the Sleep Coach and automatic nap recognition, providing tailored sleep insights. It’s also inclusive, offering workout profiles for wheelchair users.
The Ignite 3 from Polar isn’t far behind. It’s equipped with SleepWise, closely tracking sleep, and the Nightly Recharge feature that examines your stress levels, giving an overall view of your health.
Activity Tracking
For those keen on fitness, both watches are a boon. Garmin’s Venu 3 is packed with features like interval training for runners and cyclists and specialized profiles for wheelchair workouts.
On the other hand, the Ignite 3 by Polar shines with its FitSpark tool, suggesting exercises based on your training and recovery status.
Additional Features
The Venu 3 carries a unique feature for its range – an in-built speaker and microphone, allowing users to manage calls directly from the wrist. It’s a feature that usually adorns premium watches like the Apple Watch.
The Ignite 3, though, misses out on some advanced offerings like contactless payments and direct call answering.
Apps & Compatibility
Both watches come paired with dedicated apps to enhance user experience.
The Venu 3 syncs with the Garmin Connect app, which is popular among fitness enthusiasts for its comprehensive training tools.
The Ignite 3, on the other hand, uses the Polar Flow app, which provides detailed performance metrics.
Battery Life
A smartwatch’s battery life is a major dealbreaker for many.
The Garmin Venu 3 impresses with up to 14 days in standard mode and 26 hours with GPS for the 45mm variant. The smaller Venu 3S offers 10 days in standard mode and 21 hours in GPS.
The Ignite 3 from Polar promises a whopping 120 hours in regular mode and 30 hours in GPS.
However, some users have noted that the battery might deplete quicker than anticipated, leading to more frequent charging sessions.
Garmin Venu 3 vs Polar Ignite 3: Which Should You Buy?
If you’re looking for a smartwatch packed with the latest Garmin sensors and a myriad of features, then the Venu 3 is just what you need. It’s an all-rounder that won’t disappoint.
But here’s the thing. If you’re someone who doesn’t want a dozen apps and gadgets and just wants a solid all-rounder, the Venu 3 has got your back.
On the flip side, if turning heads is your thing, the sleek Polar Ignite 3 is a real looker. Not to mention, its fitness data is pretty spot-on. But, keep a charger handy; it loves to be juiced up more often than some of its peers. Happy choosing!
