If you’re considering buying a Garmin smartwatch, you might have come across the Garmin Venu 3 and Venu 3s.
These two smartwatches may look similar at first glance, but there are some key differences between them.
In this article, we’ll break down the distinctions between the Garmin Venu 3 and Venu 3s (45mm vs 41 mm), focusing on size, design, features, and more.
Garmin Venu 3 vs 3S – 45mm vs 41 mm: Main Differences
- Size: Venu 3 has a 45mm case, while Venu 3s has a 41mm case.
- Display: Venu 3 has a 1.4-inch screen, and Venu 3s has a 1.2-inch screen.
- Weight: Venu 3 weighs 46g with a strap, and Venu 3s weighs 40g with a strap.
- Strap Width: Venu 3 has a 22mm strap, and Venu 3s has an 18mm strap.
- Wrist Fit: Venu 3 suits larger wrists, and Venu 3s suits smaller wrists.
- Color Options: Venu 3 comes in black and white, and Venu 3s offers more color choices.
- Display Information: Venu 3 displays more information for notifications, messages, and activities.
- Features: Both models share similar features and functions.
Garmin Venu 3 vs 3S: Pricing
Garmin Venu 3 and 3S both priced at $449.99
Where to Buy?
- Garmin Venu 3: View on Amazon
- Garmin Venu 3S: View on Amazon
Garmin Venu 3 vs 3S – 45mm vs 41 mm: Key Differences Explained
Size Matters
The most obvious difference between the Garmin Venu 3 and Venu 3s is their size. The Venu 3 comes with a larger 45mm case, while the Venu 3s features a more compact 41mm case.
When you put them side by side, you’ll notice that the Venu 3s has a bigger 1.4-inch display compared to the 1.2-inch display on the Venu 3.
In terms of weight, the Venu 3 with its strap weighs 46 grams, while the Venu 3s weighs just 40 grams with its strap.
However, the difference in weight isn’t significant enough to be noticeable during everyday wear or workouts.
Strap Variations
Both smartwatches come with different strap options. The Venu 3 has a 22mm silicone strap with a quick-release feature, whereas the Venu 3s only features an 18mm silicone strap.
This is an important distinction if you have specific preferences for strap width.
Wrist Fit
Your wrist size plays a crucial role in determining which model suits you better. If your wrist measures around 14 to 17 centimeters, the 41mm Venu 3s may be the right choice for a snug fit.
On the other hand, if your wrist is larger, say around 19 centimeters like mine, the 45mm Venu 3 might be a better fit, offering a more proportional look.
Look and Color Choices
The Garmin Venu 3 is available in two classic colors: black and white.
In contrast, the Venu 3s offer a wider range of options, including gold, gray, black, silver gray, golden rose gold, and ivory.
So, if you’re someone who likes to match your smartwatch to your style, the Venu 3s gives you more choices.
Display Differences
While both models share many features, the amount of information displayed on their screens varies.
The Venu 3 can show a bit more information on its screen compared to the Venu 3s.
This difference is particularly noticeable when it comes to notifications, messages, emails, and selecting activities in the sports section.
Garmin Venu 3 vs 3S – 45mm vs 41 mm: Specs Comparison
| Feature/Specification | Garmin Venu 3 | Garmin Venu 3S |
|---|---|---|
| Case Material | Fiber-reinforced polymer | Fiber-reinforced polymer |
| Price | $449.99 | $449.99 |
| Quick Release Bands | 22 mm | 18 mm |
| Physical Size | 45 x 45 x 12 mm | 41 x 41 x 12 mm |
| Weight | 47 g | 40 g |
| Display Type | AMOLED Always-On Mode | AMOLED Always-On Mode |
| Display Size | 1.4 inches | 1.2 inches |
| Resolution | 454 x 454 pixels | 390 x 390 pixels |
| Large Font Option | Yes | Yes |
| Wheelchair Mode | Yes | Yes |
| Garmin ECG App | No | No |
| Meditation | Yes | Yes |
| Sleep Coach | Yes | Yes |
| Nap Detection | Yes | Yes |
| Jet Lag Adviser | Yes | Yes |
| On-Device Connect IQ Store | Yes | Yes |
| View Images from Notifications on Watch (Android Only) | Yes | Yes |
| Morning Report | Yes | Yes |
| Realtime Settings Sync with Garmin Connect Mobile | Yes | Yes |
| Smart Trainer Control | Yes | Yes |
| Gaming Activity | Yes | Yes |
| GameOn App Compatible | Yes | Yes |
| Recovery Time | Yes | Yes |
| HRV Status | Yes | Yes |
| Respiration Rate (During Exercise) | Yoga, breathwork and meditation only | Yoga, breathwork and meditation only |
| Interval Training | Yes | Yes |
| Improved Interval | Yes | Yes |
| Improved Recovery Time | Yes (limited) | Yes (limited) |
| Audio Prompts | Yes | Yes |
| Available Outdoor Recreation Profiles | Hiking, Indoor Climbing, Bouldering, Skiing, Snowboarding, XC Classic Skiing, Snowshoeing, Stand Up Paddleboarding, Rowing, Tennis, Padel, Pickleball, Disc Golf | Hiking, Indoor Climbing, Bouldering, Skiing, Snowboarding, XC Classic Skiing, Snowshoeing, Stand Up Paddleboarding, Rowing, Tennis, Padel, Pickleball, Disc Golf |
| Workouts for wheelchair users | Yes | Yes |
| Available Cycling Profiles | Biking, Indoor Biking, eBiking, Handcycling, Indoor Handcycling | Biking, Indoor Biking, eBiking, Handcycling, Indoor Handcycling |
| Power Meter Compatible | Yes | Yes |
| Open-Water Swim Metrics | Yes | Yes |
| Auto Rest (Pool Swim Only) | Yes | Yes |
| Toe-to-Toe Challenges App | No | No |
| Battery Life | Up to 14 days (Smartwatch mode with display always-on), Up to 26 days (Battery Saver mode), Up to 26 hours (GPS-Only GNSS mode) | Up to 10 days (Smartwatch mode with display always-on), Up to 20 days (Battery Saver mode), Up to 21 hours (GPS-Only GNSS mode) |
Garmin Venu 3 vs 3 – 45mm vs 41mm: Which One Should You Choose?
In the end, the choice between the Garmin Venu 3 and Venu 3s boils down to your wrist size and style preferences.
If you have a smaller wrist, the Venu 3s might be more comfortable and proportional.
If you prefer a larger watch or have a bigger wrist, the Venu 3 with its 45mm case is the way to go.
It’s important to note that both smartwatches offer almost identical features and functionality.
The main distinctions lie in the size, display, and strap options.
So, you won’t be missing out on any core features regardless of which model you choose.
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