Are there any other trackers that have wrist heartrate and can pair with the chest strap? I called Garmin support and they said the Vivoactive 3 and HR are their only two models which can do both.
Honestly, I have never commented on a single review video (and I watch a TON). This is one of the absolute best review videos I've ever seen. You da bomb
As a person that knows nothing about this kind of devices I say... THANK YOU. It´s the first time i see one of your videos but you sound quite impartial, so i loved it!
Hello my friend, I know this is a nearly two year old video but I wanted to give you a big THANKS for the effort you put into these videos, you have helped a lot of people including me. Cheers!
I've been using this watch for the last few months based on your review. I'm quite pleased with it. I migrated from a Vivofit3 to this and you were spot on that this device was the perfect transition piece. Very easy to customize and use right out of the box with great features.
I just bought mine the other day. After having 2 faulty Fitbit charge 3’s in a row. I chose to pay the extra and get this Garmin vivoactive 3 and I’m very impressed with it
Your review was spot on! I purchased my Vivoactive 3 couple of months ago, checked your review then and again today, my purchase price was $200, well worth it. GOLF function works great, better than more expensive golf watches. I did get elliptical to work just fine.
I have watched every one of your videos on this watch. I have an Apple watch series 1 and have been extremely disappointed with the battery life, it never lasts a full day. I am excited to try this watch and would be thrilled even if it only has enough battery with only 2-3 days of activity. Mine should be coming soon. Thank you for your in depth reviews and joyful presentation.
+rydeaz Thanks so much! I appreciate it! You should easily be able to get 2-3 days out of this if you’re not using GPS a ton over that time period. Enjoy!
Love this video!!!! Thank you! After that, I decided to buy one for me! And I'm also thinking about going back to my English classes because... oooowwwwww.... you speak so fast!!!!!
This is an excellent review - clear, comprehensive, balanced, well paced, brings out information a user might not think of before purchasing, but which could matter. Liked and subscribed. Thank you!
Thanks for the great review. Had a hard time to choose between the forerunner 235 and this but after watching all the videos, I got myself a Vivoactive 3. Thumbs up for these videos!
I’ve had a FitBit for a few years now but want a little more... I’m still comparing the Versa Lite with the vivoactive 3, but your video has been SUPER helpful with questions I had about the Garmin. Leaning towards this one now. Thank you!
Thanks for all your reviews. I've had my v3 for 2 weeks and love it. Battery is not as good as original bioactive so I'm keeping that for my camping trips but overall I'm more than happy with thus. Being female with tiny wrists it's still looks stylish and comfortable. Unlike the ionic which I tried on and was huge!
I'm considering upgrading from a Polar A370, which I chose mostly because of the similar size to the Fitbit Charge HR (because the Fitbit wrist heart rate wasn't very accurate). The Vivo Active 3 seems like a great option for a woman because it is smaller. It also appears to have many of the same features as the Polar A 370. Thanks for your review.
Thank you very much! I watched many of your videos, some more than once. Your reviews direct to conclusion. I was in between Garmin VA3 and Suunto Spartan Trainer. Finally I bought VA3-white. The reasons VA3 won are size, weight, app.
The blueish hue is from the backlight. The display is transflective, so you dont need a backlight at all when outdoors. As seen in your footage with it next to the Fenix 5, the display has deep blacks and very good contrast.
Loved the review. I'm using the vivoactive3 for a month, and your prediction was absolutely right. I increased my fitness activities a lot! Next year, maybe, i'll be looking for a more complete gps watch.
After 7 days of using this device I can say everything best about it. My VA3 (gunmetal) is very comfortable, battery is durable, great activity settings and, above all, watch looks GREAT! I'm satisfied with it. REPLY
Just bought this and although old I am upgrading from a Vivoactive (1?). Bought it a the price point suggested so even if it’s not the latest, ur review confirms what I need it for and it will perform. I will def use it for all the data it can provide. Great 👍🏻 vid.
Very thorough and nicely done reviews. Thanks a lot, Des. This helped me a lot with my decision process of buying this thing. Keep it up & best regards from Germany!
I've had my VA3 for a few weeks and really love it. I had bought the original square Vivoactive as my first Garmin device a few years ago, after having used Polar products forever. After that square VA, I went to the Forerunner 230 which I also liked a lot. I knew that I needed just a little more than the 230 was giving me, but I didn't want to spend the $$ on either a 735XT or even a Fenix 5S. So when the VA3 came out, I knew it was the right device for me. I use it running and biking, and overall the platform has much improved since the days of the 230. Cannot recommend it highly enough!! Get one!
I have so much confidence in Des, I like the video before I watch it. Thanks for all your effort, and I look forward to the day you pass the million subscriber mark!
Hey dude, how did the watch over an year? Did you ever wanted your watch had the capability to hold some songs on it and play it thru Bluetooth headset, so that you could go phone free for runs n workouts. Basically I'm torn between this and Music version. Interestingly, music version is cheaper on the Garmin website. Thank you.
Hey Des, as you've always been my favorite fitness gear RUclipsr... If I were only active in indoor rowing, indoor cycling, weight lifting and open water swimming.. would the vivoactive 3 or 4 be acceptable for the open water swimming? I really can't afford the Fênix 6 and looking for the best solution for my needs. I'm open to other suggestions also, as long as it has a great display to read. Looking forward to hearing from you and thanks in advance.
Great review, thank you! Garmin finally put out an affordable, female friendly watch! I got tired of wearing those masculine running watches, but this one looks stylish and it's light weight.
Great video. I was torn between AW3 and this helped sway my decision to purchase the Garmin instead. So far this was the best review of the watch that I have viewed. Thanks Des
Hi Des great review as always. Between the Vivoactive 3 and the Amazfit Stratos 2 which one would you consider buying? I mainly need it for everyday tracking and cycling/gym. Thanks
This vivioactive 3 seems like the perfect sweet spot for me! Thanks Des! The wrap up at the end honestly describes me, (and I found your helpful seriesafter I bought it, haha) but excited to upgrade from my dead Vivioactive HR (that one disappointed me for all the reasons you've explained in this series and more).
Hey! I’m trying to decide to get the Forerunner 45 (sale for 190$cad) or Vivo 3 (sale for 170$cad). I saw you made videos on both and I’m wondering which one you prefer! (I’m a runner on a track team and I swim and bike as well but it’s just for fun (I’m 14 girl btw) thank you!
I’ve looked at lots of reviews on sports watches and fitness trackers lately, so much so, I’ve not been as active! Lol Finally made a decision based on my tiny budget and what I’ll use it for. This is the watch for me. Can’t wait to put it on and get moving more. Great review. Thanks 😀
Thank you for this video, and all your video’s as they are great and truly appear to be your own thoughts. I am considering the VA3 or the AW3. When you do your review can you please include a review of the golf functions?
@@whosthis1230 I still like it! long battery life when not in GPS mode, and all the notifications from my phone go here so I know what's on my calendar without getting out my phone! it's not too big or heavy which is nice. It's simple which is what I want - I don't really have any complaints!
Great review! I am currently considering this device and the AW3. When you do your comparison, can you please dive into a comparison of the VA3 with the AW3 workout app? It seems like there is a lot you can do with the Garmin that you still can't do with the AW3. For instance, I haven't been able to find out whether or not the AW3 can do distance based intervals (it seems it only does time based intervals).
Thankyou soo much for this review, how you compared the watch to the treadmill and other devices gives me an understanding on how good the actual device is. Went through so many other videos of RUclips's explaining the watch in detail non of them did the comparison to the treadmill. I rely on counting my calories through the treadmill however mine broke so in replacement I'm buying this watch as a good alternative to counting calories while running. :)
Love the review! I am a Garmin Forerunner 235 user and I am wanting to switch to maybe a Samsung smartwatch or this but so worried that I won't get all the detail I have come to expect from my current watch. I don't necessarily need all that info but I enjoy looking at it.
thanks for the review was helpfull and enjoyable. i just got one and am glad someone agree's with me its a good choice for a starter as its more than most need. i know im only going to use it for hr sleep swimming cycleing walking distance's hiking in the forrest and indoor cycling i think i may use it for music too but time will tell 2 days is better than my sons samsung watch it would only do a day befor eit needed a charge
Nice video Des. I also found the side swipe option quirky. When I was playing tennis today I could not get it to work. Also, the OHR didn't seem to record me much over 100, which was clearly off. The weather was in the mid 90s and that may have had something to do with it. Overall, it looks like a regular watch and is very comfortable to wear. The comfort is really good for a wearable.
+John Manley Interesting about your HR...I haven’t had any issues with cold nor hot weather, so maybe take that up with “the big G.” ;) Agreed on all your points, John, and thanks again!
My swimming works I love the design and love lightness I can sleep with it on without pain. I love this watch but battery life is not great? Thanks for the sensitivity comment I was wearing surfing and the heart rate came on as I’d knocked it. It has a surf setting on my phone but I don’t know how to set it so it measures on the watch. It is important that the heart rate monitor is off so I’m setting on pool swim. Everyone who sees it and hears about it loves if. I’m so happy I love it
Des, Checked out the VA3 at REI this week. With your detailed review I didn't need to play with the functions too much but just get a feel for how the touch screen and the swipe function works. Touch screen was excellent and I would say smoother than the Garmin Vivioactive HR that I currently wear. I am still disappointed on the clarity and brightness level of the Garmin screens. Since you advised to lower the screen brightness to extend battery life, this is a double wammy! I agree with your take on build quality. I like a watch with substance and I could not believe how light or perhaps delicate this watch is. The VA HR is more solid in my opinion. This was the biggest drawback of my observation. However I believe Garmin makes the best fitness watches with respect to options and functionality, but they do cut corners a bit on some of their watches to keep the price point in line. In the meantime I am going with the Viita Smartwatch as I don't need all of the fitness options provided by Garmin. The Viita has a solid stainless steel body, 320x290 color display and a 3-4 week battery life! Yes no 3rd party review but for $175 I am going to give it a try and wait for Garmin to release their next Vivioactive watch.
Another great and thorough video review. Thanks a lot. Must say even though it looks way better than the previous model, the software looks a bit laggy and slow and the screen quality looks more like a bad cartoon compared to the screen of the Apple Watch and other OLED watches. Yes it might be a tad more fitness focussed but as you mentioned yourself the black looks blue and all in all the screen looks like something from an old phone before colour screens really took off or maybe a high end calculator - I might be overreacting a bit but the screen is the part you look and interact with all the time
Excellent video!! I also think that the quality of the color would have been better like the Fitbit Ionic! For the Ionic and the VA3, how do you manually record laps?... For running. I am still unsure which device I should buy! Thanks!
+Jose Eduardo Tschen Thank you! The display on the Ionic really is very nice. In regards to manual laps, it was mentioned before that manual laps may be coming in a future firmware release but I haven’t heard anything recently for the VA3. I’d love to find out more about the Ionic if FitBit were to send me a review unit, but I’m still unsure if I will pick one up yet.
+Jason Aranda Thanks! It depends on your usage, but if you want durability, go for the fenix. However the native Strength app isn’t available for the fenix 3 so just keep that in mind.
I just bought this watch today mostly due to this review...I had Fenix 3hr before and I gotta say it’s a completely different feel. Although I absolutely love it,it’s light and responsive,packed with features and it was half the price of Fenix 3,but boy I am worried about the fragility of this watch!!! Definitely not for outdoors if anyone wondering.
Hi, i am considering to bye the vivoactive 3 (i had the vivoactive 2) but i like fenix 3 hr also, my question is between these two, which hr optical sensor works best.. Probably the VA3 comes with a new one or keeps the same as Fenix3hr?
Τάκης Πολ ji,well I don’t know if the sensor has been improved in any way,after few days I can say it seems pretty much same to me. Highly inaccurate for gym/strength training or steps climbing but good for running and all day HR monitoring,just as the F3 hr was for me. Either way I wouldn’t base my decision to buy on oHR accuracy, rather consider things like size,weight,durability,touchscreen vs button etc bcs that’s where most of the differences lies. also the battery life seems shorter vs Fenix 3 where I got easy 7 days and now V3 is more like 4.
The big upgrade to the sensor is the fact that it sits more flush and then with the VA3 it collects HR more often than 3HR. But from my experience with both, HR during activities was pretty good on both but maybe a little better on 3HR.
DesFit So nothing new sensor for VA3 (I mean hardware) apart the shape.. Still the choice is difficult, 300€ for a used 3HR (still under guarantee) or 265€ for a new VA3.. The activities that I practice most are running (indoor and outdoor), hiking, skiing, swimming (open sea), cross training and i definitely want 24/7 hr, sleep recording and in the same time comfortable in my medium size wrist.. (asking much? 😋)
Great review, thanks. I wish it also has a cellular LTE support. I'd like to leave my phone at home when I go for a run. Hopefully next vivoactive or forerunner series will have that feature.
Des, I have a forerunner 410. I like the pace feature on it while I run and the ahead/behind feature. Thinking about upgrading to VivoActive after watching your review. I play golf (have a G6) and my bike is gathering dust but I do have an Edge 500 for when I cycle. I don't have any other step/activity tracker. Do you think it is worth buying?
I have the va3 and you can pick 3 reply's that you can type out and put in the list for phone calls and a bunch for text . You do this in the garmin connect app and it adds it to the watch . In Garmin connect tap on the watch photo that's at the top . then tap on text responses . That will give you 2 lines the top one is respond to messages and the bottom on is respond to incoming calls . From there add a pre typed response or tap on one and you can back space a response and add your own words . Once you add the responces you want it will send them to the watch .
I've been following your reviews of the vivoactive 3. Love your videos! I've always been against an getting an Apple Watch but lately I've been considering the Apple Watch 3 this time around so I'm going to hold out and wait to see what you think 🤔
Thanks so much, Sarah! I should have something out later this week. I won't break it up into 4 episodes like the VA3 series, but I don't wait 3 weeks either to be able to fully test everything, so maybe just a 2 part series. Thanks again!
DesFit it's a tough choice. They're in the same general price range but look and feel so different. I love the look of a round Watch face but I like that you can see more on a square/rectangular screen. I'm so back and forth there's always going to be some kind of compromise whatever I go with. I guess I can always return whichever I choose if I end up changing my mind! I have had a Garmin for years so it's hard for me to abandon it for Apple. I appreciate your opinion!
I was in the same position as you. The AW3 is exciting and new, etc. But you really should think about for what purposes you need a watch. If you want a fancy watch which can also track your activity, go AW3. But if you really want to focus on sport (running, swimming, cycling, etc) I highly recommend a Garmin. They are more accurate, the battery will last you a lot longer on a single charge. (btw: Garmin watches can also give smart notifications). I chose the Garmin Forerunner 735XT, is almost on the same price level but performs much better. I also love the integration of Strava into. For sports, it is much more customizable. :) Hope this will help you.
Tobias Re so just for the sake of giving it a try I picked up an AW3 and returned it the next day. I have been a long time garmin user and the AW3 just does way too many things. The activity/exercise training felt secondary and I didn’t like having to open the “activity” app on the watch and scroll through it to see my info since that’s mostly use it for other than a watch . Im going to pick up a a VA3 or maybe some other garmin device soon.
+Sarah Day it will indeed be tough if you are already a Garmin user and are used to their way of doing things. These are similar conclusions and I’m actually wrapping episode 2 right now but for you, you probably made the right choice. However, I do have to say that it takes a while to get used the Apple system and I can see how it could work for some folks, but are going to leave plenty of others wanting more.
Great review. Seems Garmin have hit the sweet spot. BUT how does it compare to the new Fitbit - What would be your choice ? With thanks from Steve from Bath, UK.
Loved the review vids and just got one of these. I like it so far! The watch face you're using at 4:26 in this video (and several other times throughout all 4 videos), where'd you find that? Is it on the watch or through the IQ store? I didn't see it locally on the watch.
Another great video. I have a s0 apple watch and i'm really torn between getting the series 3 or the vivoactive 3. I look forward to the head to head and final review of the apple watch.
Tw different kinds of screen tech, i bought this for the battery life, prefer becones easier to read in bright conditions, this is a fitness tracker with smart watch functions, apple is a snart watch with ftness tracker functions, i sold my apple watch as had to charge ut every third day, get five days from this little beauty😉
Hi Drs, just came across your video, I’m now a subbie, trying to soak up all information, I’m 66 & was very spoilt my daughter bought me a Garmin vivo3 🥰 I’m a little tech savvy or should I say get by lol, I mainly use mine for outdoor walking & treadmill & the usual, steps, heart, cal, distance. I do have a couple of questions IF YOU or ANYONE can help with, Q1 when on treadmill how do I calculate my steps? …. 1 walk 1hr+ & doesn’t read my steps, Q2. Do I have to wear it on my negative arm or can I have it on my leg to read steps? Thank you in advance, will watch more videos to get more savvy lol 😂
Great review again. I would like to have seen some footage on the use of the Custom Workouts on this watch in combination with the touch screen interface. This is one of the selling points for me, to switch from my current VA HR to the VA3. And I think we are still waiting on the firmware update that enables manual lap via a double tap on the touchscreen. I am curious how well that will work...especially when running and/or in wet conditions.
+Patrick Craenmehr Thanks! I’ll probably do a stand-alone video on custom workouts that applies to more than just the VA3...kind of like the Strength Training video I published right before this one. I bet the lap option should work fine just like the AW as it’s similar but you are correct about how it would work in wet conditions. Thanks again!
Hi I have created a number of custom workouts for my 620 which ported across to the VA3 without issue. However the problem lies with the VA3 alerts. I hadn't realised that, unlike the 620, the VA3 does NOT have sound alerts. I should have checked this before purchase. This would be fine except that the VA3 vibration alert is so weak (even at the highest setting) that most of the time I don't feel it when running. This makes it impossible for me to use custom workouts or the run/walk timers which I depend on all the time when using the 620. It's interesting that I have not seen one reviewer mention the lack of a sound alert or the strength of the vibration alert. However I notice the lap alert more often than a timer or threshold alert and this may be due to a different pattern used. It's possible that a software update could improve the vibration alerts even though the hardware cannot be changed. All the reviews I have seen say that the heart rate measurement of the VA3 compares well with using a belt. I have found my VA3 HR to vary quite a lot at times when compared to the 620 and belt. I even had one run when the VA 3 HR was reading well above what I have established to be my max HR over years of use with the 305 and 620. I'm hoping these issues will improve with subsequent software updates.
Subscibing! Thank you for breaking things down and leaving a link tot he previous. I would like to ask being that I am just getting back into things and slowly becoming more active with each passing day I was wondering if this was worth an upgrade from my Vivosmart HR which is two years old?
There’s a lot more with the VA3 than the VSHR. I think it comes down to your budget. If you can afford it, and need more features then the VA3 is a great watch.
@@DesFit thank you. I'm still thinking on it. Main thing I'm hearing about VA3 lately is battery issues and holding a charge. Figured for about 120 more I could forego all those issues but budget is an issue lol
@Desfit Great videos! I'm coming from fitbit after four years. Crossing my fingwrs I'm making the right decision. Question is during the winter months I'm running with a jacket and/or long sleeve shirt and I've seen the complaints about the screen being to sensitive but if it's locked it won't track runs?
Thank you Des for this thoroug review of the VA3. Personally my main sport is swimming but you didn't touch on that one at all. Like others I'm also considering the VA3 vs the upcoming Samsung Gear Sport assuming the latter has good swim tracking capabilities. Any thoughts on the Gear Sport and are you planning to review it as well? Thanks as always.
@@JR-zw2vb Would like to know this too! Im considering buying the vivoactive 3 for swimming but maybe there are better ones available. Im mainly concerned with accuracy when it comes to measuring laps, distance, strokes/strokes per min, swolf score, etc
@@thepainteditor I now have both (VA3 and Samsung Galaxy Watch 46mm) had Fenix 3 titanium+HRM, VA1, and VA2 before... (all gone by now) Samsung has caught up with swimming and other sport measurements. But it's still a smart watch + fitness capabilities. Garmin is more sport activity watch (than a fitness) with little smartwatch capabilities. I'm using Samsung with strata (free) and it's good for my simple activities so far. (Swim, run, walk, bike, hike, measuring water coffee intakes etc) Both Garmin VA3 and Samsung Galaxy watch produces same results after over a mile of swim, respectively. Some swear by Garmin, but after trying all VA lines, and Fenix3, I don't buy that. As long as it measures some, and keeps you happy and healthy either will do for me. I keep VA3 as a sub for Golf. Because Samsung Galaxy requires a monthly premium for a golfzone app. For smartwatch Samsung is pretty good. Unless you're an Apple user. Let me know if you have any questions! Good luck!
@@JR-zw2vb Thanks for the feedback! This was very helpful. One of the major things I liked about the VA3 over the samsung watch (active) is battery life, so that'll make a huge difference when deciding which watch to get. However, its nice knowing that these watches are pretty much neck-to-neck when it comes to results... I kind of just assumed that Garmins were more accurate. I'm planning on getting either one for $100 (used) so whichever Im able to find Ill try to get. Cheers!
Upgraded from vivoactive first generation to this as a birthday gift and I was really happy with it first. However things got changed while using it. Watch may freeze somehow - it doesn't have a manual sleep mode, so it detects your sleep mode after you lay down (also by reduced HR I understood) and awake by your movement in the morning. In my total 35 days of use; it didn't wake up fm sleep mode for three mornings in different days and didn't count my steps at those mornings (after a soft reset, it went back to normal, but wasted step data :/ ). My primary and the biggest complains are regarding running app; first you can't get your avg. pace by metric (it only gives avg. pace based on miles while all my settings are arranged to kilometers); your run settings like laps and other things gone away after every run (for example I am using auto-laps at every 1K, but watch insists on to arrange it to 0,62K by itself strangely) and sometimes GPS is troubled & not correctly measuring the distance (especially on trails). Second issue is with the strenght training app; you can't adjust your sets and rest times for yourself (you can use a widget but I wish my brand new watch could do that). Also, it has a very very sensitive screen so I lock the screen before I sleep. While I sent my complains to Garmin Customer Service, I only got "we're working to fix these issues" replies, terrible CS btw. Not a good point? Of course it has: decent heart rate, good sleep tracking, very lightweight and good looking, good battery life. I am getting used to it & like it somehow, but I still pissed off with the avg. pace issue at most! I hope they can find a solution as soon as they do. Because endbuyers are not beta testers and Garmin does this to us so many times recently on other VA products.
Battery life has gotten horable with software updates. I use mine for 1 hour then power down. By the next day it will be down to 10% or dead. This is while off. I usually love garmin but their lack of addressing this has really hurt my opinion of their support. Good review other wise.
Hi Des, I recognize you've been doing a lot of testing the VA3. And thank you for all your good observations. But there's one thing I think should be mentioned. I'm returning my VA3 because of it. I simply cannot live with that one button. I have to lock the screen during wet winter exercises because the sleeve on my jacket or shirt keeps switching pages, and has even gotten itself into settings! But with the screen locked I can do NOTHING during runs :/ I can't pause (ok there is autopause), or swipe to see the other screens. But most annoying to me is I can't take manual laps. The double-tap action is 50-50 at best anyway with winter gloves. And you know you want it to be spot on during those fast laps. IMO Garmin should have added a couple of more buttons - the it would have been perfect for more serious runners.
I have a VA 3 and my colleague has an AW. Va pros: battery life and the reflective always on display. AW is better in terms of smart watch functionality, as well as a lot of useful stuff brought by the latest updates (and they will keep coming). Bottom line - I'd buy an AW if I had an iPhone.
@@Xdc5 Thanks for reply. I can get the VA3 Music through my health insurance for $161. As much as i want to the Apple watch 4 I might end up withe VA3 music at that price.
Thank you for this review. Just to clarify -1. If I do not start/stop at the beginning of work out sessions it will not sync up with the connect app but will only retain for the day in the watch itself and I will end up losing that day's data for my monthly log? 2. What are my options here to listen to music w/o having to carry my phone and/or without having to pay for monthly music app. TIA!
awesome review, Des! Really like the format and your effort to take an unbiased point of reference. However, I am really curious concerning the upcoming comparison with the Apple watch, especially concerning being biased: you are an everyday Garmin user while having that Apple watch high that supposedly lasts for at least a couple of months. These two could actually outbalance each other ;-D Keep up the good work! All the best from Hannover, Germany.
+Mathias Rhein It’s been an interesting experience testing both Garmin and Apple at the same time and that’s really the perspective I am trying to provide is from a long time Garmin owner. Thanks so much!
I like my Vivoactive 3 but I have had problems with watch faces changing unintentionally. Another oddity has been the stair counter. Roughly a month ago, the watch started telling me that I had climbed 7 or 8 or even 10 times my stair goal. I’m 67, live in Florida (flat...). I’m lucky if I actually go up one flight of stairs a day not 10 or 12 floors.
Hey man! Due to your previous reviews on the VA3, I ditched my Apple Watch Series 2 for this watch. And I love the stainless steel finish more so than the slate. To me it just looks classier, but of course that’s a matter of opinion. I know this is competing with the Apple Watch, but this watch is catered to people who want a fitness watch first and smart watch second. While the Apple Watch is great, Apple just doesn’t have the software and all of the health and activity statistics that you can get with a Garmin watch like the VA3. That is the primary reason I switched to this watch. So yes, the Apple Watch is a great smartwatch, but as far as a health and activity watch, it can’t compete with this Garmin watch.
I've had my Vivo Acctive 3 for about 18 months now and when it's working, I love it. I wear it as my every day watch, only take it off before bed and plug it into the charger. I use the GPS for tracking my bike rides and the battery life has been long enough to track a couple 6-7hr rides without fail. However, 3 times since I've owned it, the touch screen has frozen and become completely unusable. The first time it was right after a long, cold weather bike ride. The next time was after a hot sauna session, and the last time (last week) just for no reason I could figure. Each time the screen froze in the watch mode, so it would still tell time, but I couldn't get it to do anything else, other than shut off by holding the button in for 10 seconds. After the first time it froze, (after about 6 months of use) I called Gamin customer support and he told me to hold in the off button for 30 seconds after it shut down, which I did, 3 times, and it finally started working normally again. But the next two times the screen froze, no amount of shutting and restarting it would fix it. I called Garmin again and they said send it back for replacement, which I was about to do....when it started working normally again! It just started functioning all by itself, I hadn't just shut it down, this was after a week of being frozen! That was about 2 months ago, but it just froze up again! This time it's been a week of frozen uselessness, but this time the watch set itself to some bizarre time zone, about 12:25 ahead of my actual time zone! So now it's useless even as a basic watch. I've already put it back in the original box it came in when I bought it (for $329!) and I'll be shipping it back to Garmin tomorrow. Hopefully they can fix or replace it. I do love the watch when it's working for all the reasons listed in the above video, oh, but my strap tail keeper broke after about 1yr, so there's that. But I love the Garmin Connect app on my phone and tablet for tracking and storing my bike rides and other stuff I do when wearing the watch. As long as Garmin will support it and replace it, I'll keep using their stuff. I have a couple of their other GPS units, a 3 Pilot for my light airplane, and a hand held Etrex for hiking which I also use when sailing, both have been great. I hope they can fix my watch!
Thanks for watching and Follow on Twitter for updates! 👉 twitter.com/GetDesFit
Are there any other trackers that have wrist heartrate and can pair with the chest strap? I called Garmin support and they said the Vivoactive 3 and HR are their only two models which can do both.
Does slate version look better than stainless steel?
I suppose that depends on your individual style.
Honestly, I have never commented on a single review video (and I watch a TON). This is one of the absolute best review videos I've ever seen. You da bomb
Wow thanks a bunch!
As a person that knows nothing about this kind of devices I say... THANK YOU. It´s the first time i see one of your videos but you sound quite impartial, so i loved it!
Hello my friend, I know this is a nearly two year old video but I wanted to give you a big THANKS for the effort you put into these videos, you have helped a lot of people including me. Cheers!
That’s great to hear - thanks a bunch!
I've been using this watch for the last few months based on your review. I'm quite pleased with it. I migrated from a Vivofit3 to this and you were spot on that this device was the perfect transition piece. Very easy to customize and use right out of the box with great features.
I just bought mine the other day. After having 2 faulty Fitbit charge 3’s in a row. I chose to pay the extra and get this Garmin vivoactive 3 and I’m very impressed with it
2:06 “Baby One More Time” Britney Spears. LoL!
It’s OK Des. I love the song too.
+Joseph Anthony Hit me baby! 😂
I’ve just bought one for £110 so I’m very happy with it, a load of watch for the money.
Nice!
Your review was spot on! I purchased my Vivoactive 3 couple of months ago, checked your review then and again today, my purchase price was $200, well worth it. GOLF function works great, better than more expensive golf watches. I did get elliptical to work just fine.
You got a great deal! Glad you are enjoying it.
Did you pay extra for golf app?
What about Heart rate sensor, is it works properly?
My main focus is on running, so should I opt for this one?
I have watched every one of your videos on this watch. I have an Apple watch series 1 and have been extremely disappointed with the battery life, it never lasts a full day. I am excited to try this watch and would be thrilled even if it only has enough battery with only 2-3 days of activity. Mine should be coming soon. Thank you for your in depth reviews and joyful presentation.
+rydeaz Thanks so much! I appreciate it! You should easily be able to get 2-3 days out of this if you’re not using GPS a ton over that time period. Enjoy!
I love your spin on reviews, definitely stand out from all the generic tech spec ones on RUclips. Great job!!
Love this video!!!! Thank you! After that, I decided to buy one for me! And I'm also thinking about going back to my English classes because... oooowwwwww.... you speak so fast!!!!!
😂Sorry about that! I’m trying but I guess good thing there is the .5 speed playback option in RUclips.
i thought he was speaking slow.
Priscilla Guerra did you buy one ? How did you like it
I have one and l love it.
I teach English and would be glad to help you ;)
This is an excellent review - clear, comprehensive, balanced, well paced, brings out information a user might not think of before purchasing, but which could matter. Liked and subscribed. Thank you!
Thanks! Glad it helped!
Just bought this. I love it!
Nice!
Des you could play Gengis Khan man, you'd look mean with a beard. Good reviews too
😂
Thanks for the great review. Had a hard time to choose between the forerunner 235 and this but after watching all the videos, I got myself a Vivoactive 3. Thumbs up for these videos!
I’ve had a FitBit for a few years now but want a little more... I’m still comparing the Versa Lite with the vivoactive 3, but your video has been SUPER helpful with questions I had about the Garmin. Leaning towards this one now. Thank you!
The VA3 will be quite a bit more capable than the Versa Lite. Not to say it’s a bad device but hard to compete in regards to fitness functionality.
Great summary. Nicely done reviews too. You’ve helped me make the decision to go with this watch.
Thanks! I’m glad it helped!
Just bought this from my cousin for $75. First Smartwatch. Glad I didn't pay retail. He upgraded to the Vivoactive 4.
Thanks for all your reviews. I've had my v3 for 2 weeks and love it. Battery is not as good as original bioactive so I'm keeping that for my camping trips but overall I'm more than happy with thus. Being female with tiny wrists it's still looks stylish and comfortable. Unlike the ionic which I tried on and was huge!
+Mel Taylor no doubt! Glad you’re enjoying it!
Great review and video, Des! You're becoming my "go to" now for reviewing fitness tech!
+Michelle Hunt Wow! Thanks so much Michelle! If there’s anything that you’d like see specifically, let me know and I’ll see what I can do.
DesFit Thanks, Des, I’m sure I’ll think of something soon!
6b
I'm considering upgrading from a Polar A370, which I chose mostly because of the similar size to the Fitbit Charge HR (because the Fitbit wrist heart rate wasn't very accurate). The Vivo Active 3 seems like a great option for a woman because it is smaller. It also appears to have many of the same features as the Polar A 370. Thanks for your review.
Thank you very much! I watched many of your videos, some more than once. Your reviews direct to conclusion. I was in between Garmin VA3 and Suunto Spartan Trainer. Finally I bought VA3-white. The reasons VA3 won are size, weight, app.
Ya, Garmin Connect is the benchmark for smartphone fitness apps dedicated to a particular device/company, and yes, the VA3 is extremely light!
3 weeks with VA3, my first activity tracker/sport watch, I really enjoy outdoor running and biking. I also play badminton, but no badminton program.
The blueish hue is from the backlight. The display is transflective, so you dont need a backlight at all when outdoors. As seen in your footage with it next to the Fenix 5, the display has deep blacks and very good contrast.
Loved the review. I'm using the vivoactive3 for a month, and your prediction was absolutely right. I increased my fitness activities a lot! Next year, maybe, i'll be looking for a more complete gps watch.
+Bruno Lourenço Reis that’s awesome to hear! Love it!
Your reviews are very thoughtful. Thanks for taking the time to share your thoughts and opinions.
Thanks and sure thing!
After 7 days of using this device I can say everything best about it. My VA3 (gunmetal) is very comfortable, battery is durable, great activity settings and, above all, watch looks GREAT! I'm satisfied with it.
REPLY
Just bought this and although old I am upgrading from a Vivoactive (1?). Bought it a the price point suggested so even if it’s not the latest, ur review confirms what I need it for and it will perform. I will def use it for all the data it can provide. Great 👍🏻 vid.
Thanks!!
Very thorough and nicely done reviews. Thanks a lot, Des. This helped me a lot with my decision process of buying this thing. Keep it up & best regards from Germany!
I've had my VA3 for a few weeks and really love it. I had bought the original square Vivoactive as my first Garmin device a few years ago, after having used Polar products forever. After that square VA, I went to the Forerunner 230 which I also liked a lot. I knew that I needed just a little more than the 230 was giving me, but I didn't want to spend the $$ on either a 735XT or even a Fenix 5S. So when the VA3 came out, I knew it was the right device for me. I use it running and biking, and overall the platform has much improved since the days of the 230. Cannot recommend it highly enough!! Get one!
Potz druze koji je bolji ovaj ili forerunner 220 dvoumim se između ta dva kod ovoga se mogu mjenjati pozadine a u 220 ne mogu jer je star dosta
One of the best reviewers out there. too bad Des missed the firstbeat features, the only reason am buying this watch.
Thanks! I was thinking of covering that but I think I may do more of a generalized video about FirstBeat with all Garmin devices rather than just one.
I have so much confidence in Des, I like the video before I watch it.
Thanks for all your effort, and I look forward to the day you pass the million subscriber mark!
+Kansokusha Kamui wow that is such a nice compliment! Thank you!
Just got this watch after watching the review. good recap! thank you
Thanks! Hope you enjoy your new watch!
Hey dude, how did the watch over an year? Did you ever wanted your watch had the capability to hold some songs on it and play it thru Bluetooth headset, so that you could go phone free for runs n workouts. Basically I'm torn between this and Music version. Interestingly, music version is cheaper on the Garmin website.
Thank you.
Hey Des, as you've always been my favorite fitness gear RUclipsr... If I were only active in indoor rowing, indoor cycling, weight lifting and open water swimming.. would the vivoactive 3 or 4 be acceptable for the open water swimming? I really can't afford the Fênix 6 and looking for the best solution for my needs. I'm open to other suggestions also, as long as it has a great display to read. Looking forward to hearing from you and thanks in advance.
Great review, thank you! Garmin finally put out an affordable, female friendly watch! I got tired of wearing those masculine running watches, but this one looks stylish and it's light weight.
It’s very lightweight! Hope you enjoy it!
Thank you, this helped a lot. - Yo Momma
Sure thing
Still have my Garmin Vivoactive 2 HR - love that shape - width Garmin had kept instead of the round shape.
Great video. I was torn between AW3 and this helped sway my decision to purchase the Garmin instead. So far this was the best review of the watch that I have viewed. Thanks Des
Wow, thanks so much! Appreciate it and enjoy!
Hi Des great review as always. Between the Vivoactive 3 and the Amazfit Stratos 2 which one would you consider buying? I mainly need it for everyday tracking and cycling/gym. Thanks
Thanks for this series. Your insight has helped me decide on my next watch.
+Michael Hilliard awesome! You’re welcome!
Desmond I love your channel, and appreciate your time to post detailed comments on products. Would love to know about gear fit 2 pro review from you
Great review Des, Would u recommend the vivoactive 3 for a triathlete ?
This vivioactive 3 seems like the perfect sweet spot for me! Thanks Des! The wrap up at the end honestly describes me, (and I found your helpful seriesafter I bought it, haha) but excited to upgrade from my dead Vivioactive HR (that one disappointed me for all the reasons you've explained in this series and more).
Glad you are enjoying it.
@@DesFit thanks for your insight, Des!
I just ordered this for just $70 to replace my aging Pebble Time collection. Looking forward to the changes.
From where did you buy it?
Hey! I’m trying to decide to get the Forerunner 45 (sale for 190$cad) or Vivo 3 (sale for 170$cad). I saw you made videos on both and I’m wondering which one you prefer! (I’m a runner on a track team and I swim and bike as well but it’s just for fun (I’m 14 girl btw) thank you!
I’ve looked at lots of reviews on sports watches and fitness trackers lately, so much so, I’ve not been as active! Lol Finally made a decision based on my tiny budget and what I’ll use it for. This is the watch for me. Can’t wait to put it on and get moving more. Great review. Thanks 😀
Thank you for this video, and all your video’s as they are great and truly appear to be your own thoughts. I am considering the VA3 or the AW3. When you do your review can you please include a review of the golf functions?
I'm getting this watch because of your review... fellow Fort Collins citizen!
Hope you enjoy it!
What do you think of this watch now?
@@whosthis1230 I still like it! long battery life when not in GPS mode, and all the notifications from my phone go here so I know what's on my calendar without getting out my phone! it's not too big or heavy which is nice. It's simple which is what I want - I don't really have any complaints!
Good video! Are these all standard watch faces?
Great review! I am currently considering this device and the AW3. When you do your comparison, can you please dive into a comparison of the VA3 with the AW3 workout app?
It seems like there is a lot you can do with the Garmin that you still can't do with the AW3. For instance, I haven't been able to find out whether or not the AW3 can do distance based intervals (it seems it only does time based intervals).
Thankyou soo much for this review, how you compared the watch to the treadmill and other devices gives me an understanding on how good the actual device is. Went through so many other videos of RUclips's explaining the watch in detail non of them did the comparison to the treadmill. I rely on counting my calories through the treadmill however mine broke so in replacement I'm buying this watch as a good alternative to counting calories while running. :)
Love the review! I am a Garmin Forerunner 235 user and I am wanting to switch to maybe a Samsung smartwatch or this but so worried that I won't get all the detail I have come to expect from my current watch. I don't necessarily need all that info but I enjoy looking at it.
Thanks for this review I'm looking at getting my first smart watch. Saw a bunch of runners in my running club use the Garmin but this convinced me.
Hope it works out well for you and happy running!
thanks for the review was helpfull and enjoyable.
i just got one and am glad someone agree's with me its a good choice for a starter as its more than most need.
i know im only going to use it for
hr
sleep
swimming
cycleing
walking distance's
hiking in the forrest
and indoor cycling
i think i may use it for music too but time will tell 2 days is better than my sons samsung watch it would only do a day befor eit needed a charge
Nice video Des. I also found the side swipe option quirky. When I was playing tennis today I could not get it to work. Also, the OHR didn't seem to record me much over 100, which was clearly off. The weather was in the mid 90s and that may have had something to do with it. Overall, it looks like a regular watch and is very comfortable to wear. The comfort is really good for a wearable.
+John Manley Interesting about your HR...I haven’t had any issues with cold nor hot weather, so maybe take that up with “the big G.” ;) Agreed on all your points, John, and thanks again!
My swimming works I love the design and love lightness I can sleep with it on without pain. I love this watch but battery life is not great? Thanks for the sensitivity comment I was wearing surfing and the heart rate came on as I’d knocked it. It has a surf setting on my phone but I don’t know how to set it so it measures on the watch. It is important that the heart rate monitor is off so I’m setting on pool swim. Everyone who sees it and hears about it loves if. I’m so happy I love it
Good video, pulled the trigger today on the Amazon price. I hope the wife likes it if not it's mine. I dig the bluetooth feature to wireless ear plugs
I also did get the wireless Apple ear plugs. Great video.
Des,
Checked out the VA3 at REI this week. With your detailed review I didn't need to play with the functions too much but just get a feel for how the touch screen and the swipe function works. Touch screen was excellent and I would say smoother than the Garmin Vivioactive HR that I currently wear. I am still disappointed on the clarity and brightness level of the Garmin screens. Since you advised to lower the screen brightness to extend battery life, this is a double wammy! I agree with your take on build quality. I like a watch with substance and I could not believe how light or perhaps delicate this watch is. The VA HR is more solid in my opinion. This was the biggest drawback of my observation. However I believe Garmin makes the best fitness watches with respect to options and functionality, but they do cut corners a bit on some of their watches to keep the price point in line. In the meantime I am going with the Viita Smartwatch as I don't need all of the fitness options provided by Garmin. The Viita has a solid stainless steel body, 320x290 color display and a 3-4 week battery life! Yes no 3rd party review but for $175 I am going to give it a try and wait for Garmin to release their next Vivioactive watch.
Another great and thorough video review. Thanks a lot.
Must say even though it looks way better than the previous model, the software looks a bit laggy and slow and the screen quality looks more like a bad cartoon compared to the screen of the Apple Watch and other OLED watches. Yes it might be a tad more fitness focussed but as you mentioned yourself the black looks blue and all in all the screen looks like something from an old phone before colour screens really took off or maybe a high end calculator - I might be overreacting a bit but the screen is the part you look and interact with all the time
Excellent video!! I also think that the quality of the color would have been better like the Fitbit Ionic!
For the Ionic and the VA3, how do you manually record laps?... For running.
I am still unsure which device I should buy!
Thanks!
+Jose Eduardo Tschen Thank you! The display on the Ionic really is very nice. In regards to manual laps, it was mentioned before that manual laps may be coming in a future firmware release but I haven’t heard anything recently for the VA3. I’d love to find out more about the Ionic if FitBit were to send me a review unit, but I’m still unsure if I will pick one up yet.
Been loving your reviews Des. What are your thoughts on Vivoactive 3 vs Fenix 3 to get a better build quality without the cost?
+Jason Aranda Thanks! It depends on your usage, but if you want durability, go for the fenix. However the native Strength app isn’t available for the fenix 3 so just keep that in mind.
I just bought this watch today mostly due to this review...I had Fenix 3hr before and I gotta say it’s a completely different feel. Although I absolutely love it,it’s light and responsive,packed with features and it was half the price of Fenix 3,but boy I am worried about the fragility of this watch!!! Definitely not for outdoors if anyone wondering.
Most definitely not for the outdoors! Coming from a 3HR...boy, that IS gonna be different for you.
Hi, i am considering to bye the vivoactive 3 (i had the vivoactive 2) but i like fenix 3 hr also, my question is between these two, which hr optical sensor works best.. Probably the VA3 comes with a new one or keeps the same as Fenix3hr?
Τάκης Πολ ji,well I don’t know if the sensor has been improved in any way,after few days I can say it seems pretty much same to me. Highly inaccurate for gym/strength training or steps climbing but good for running and all day HR monitoring,just as the F3 hr was for me. Either way I wouldn’t base my decision to buy on oHR accuracy, rather consider things like size,weight,durability,touchscreen vs button etc bcs that’s where most of the differences lies. also the battery life seems shorter vs Fenix 3 where I got easy 7 days and now V3 is more like 4.
The big upgrade to the sensor is the fact that it sits more flush and then with the VA3 it collects HR more often than 3HR. But from my experience with both, HR during activities was pretty good on both but maybe a little better on 3HR.
DesFit So nothing new sensor for VA3 (I mean hardware) apart the shape.. Still the choice is difficult, 300€ for a used 3HR (still under guarantee) or 265€ for a new VA3.. The activities that I practice most are running (indoor and outdoor), hiking, skiing, swimming (open sea), cross training and i definitely want 24/7 hr, sleep recording and in the same time comfortable in my medium size wrist.. (asking much? 😋)
Great review, thanks. I wish it also has a cellular LTE support. I'd like to leave my phone at home when I go for a run. Hopefully next vivoactive or forerunner series will have that feature.
Spot on review, just got mine. Keep up !
Nice! Enjoy and thanks!
Des, I have a forerunner 410. I like the pace feature on it while I run and the ahead/behind feature. Thinking about upgrading to VivoActive after watching your review. I play golf (have a G6) and my bike is gathering dust but I do have an Edge 500 for when I cycle. I don't have any other step/activity tracker. Do you think it is worth buying?
I have the va3 and you can pick 3 reply's that you can type out and put in the list for phone calls and a bunch for text . You do this in the garmin connect app and it adds it to the watch . In Garmin connect tap on the watch photo that's at the top . then tap on text responses . That will give you 2 lines the top one is respond to messages and the bottom on is respond to incoming calls . From there add a pre typed response or tap on one and you can back space a response and add your own words . Once you add the responces you want it will send them to the watch .
I've been following your reviews of the vivoactive 3. Love your videos! I've always been against an getting an Apple Watch but lately I've been considering the Apple Watch 3 this time around so I'm going to hold out and wait to see what you think 🤔
Thanks so much, Sarah! I should have something out later this week. I won't break it up into 4 episodes like the VA3 series, but I don't wait 3 weeks either to be able to fully test everything, so maybe just a 2 part series. Thanks again!
DesFit it's a tough choice. They're in the same general price range but look and feel so different. I love the look of a round Watch face but I like that you can see more on a square/rectangular screen. I'm so back and forth there's always going to be some kind of compromise whatever I go with. I guess I can always return whichever I choose if I end up changing my mind! I have had a Garmin for years so it's hard for me to abandon it for Apple. I appreciate your opinion!
I was in the same position as you. The AW3 is exciting and new, etc. But you really should think about for what purposes you need a watch. If you want a fancy watch which can also track your activity, go AW3. But if you really want to focus on sport (running, swimming, cycling, etc) I highly recommend a Garmin. They are more accurate, the battery will last you a lot longer on a single charge. (btw: Garmin watches can also give smart notifications). I chose the Garmin Forerunner 735XT, is almost on the same price level but performs much better. I also love the integration of Strava into. For sports, it is much more customizable. :) Hope this will help you.
Tobias Re so just for the sake of giving it a try I picked up an AW3 and returned it the next day. I have been a long time garmin user and the AW3 just does way too many things. The activity/exercise training felt secondary and I didn’t like having to open the “activity” app on the watch and scroll through it to see my info since that’s mostly use it for other than a watch . Im going to pick up a a VA3 or maybe some other garmin device soon.
+Sarah Day it will indeed be tough if you are already a Garmin user and are used to their way of doing things. These are similar conclusions and I’m actually wrapping episode 2 right now but for you, you probably made the right choice. However, I do have to say that it takes a while to get used the Apple system and I can see how it could work for some folks, but are going to leave plenty of others wanting more.
Skinny lugs are definitely an issue they broke on me in 3 months. Functions are all great tho
Really in-depth review. Helped me out a lot in my decision to purchase. Thanks!
Sure thing! Thank you!
Great review. Seems Garmin have hit the sweet spot. BUT how does it compare to the new Fitbit - What would be your choice ?
With thanks from Steve from Bath, UK.
Loved the review vids and just got one of these. I like it so far! The watch face you're using at 4:26 in this video (and several other times throughout all 4 videos), where'd you find that? Is it on the watch or through the IQ store? I didn't see it locally on the watch.
SC7. Should be available through Garmin Connect IQ.
Awesome, thanks a bunch!!!
Thanks, my HR finally developed an issue with the touch screen. The 3 looks like it’s replacement.
amazing review, thanks mate
Sure thing.
Another great video. I have a s0 apple watch and i'm really torn between getting the series 3 or the vivoactive 3. I look forward to the head to head and final review of the apple watch.
+Charlie Hustle Thanks again, Charlie!
Tw different kinds of screen tech, i bought this for the battery life, prefer becones easier to read in bright conditions, this is a fitness tracker with smart watch functions, apple is a snart watch with ftness tracker functions, i sold my apple watch as had to charge ut every third day, get five days from this little beauty😉
Hi Drs, just came across your video, I’m now a subbie, trying to soak up all information, I’m 66 & was very spoilt my daughter bought me a Garmin vivo3 🥰 I’m a little tech savvy or should I say get by lol, I mainly use mine for outdoor walking & treadmill & the usual, steps, heart, cal, distance. I do have a couple of questions IF YOU or ANYONE can help with, Q1 when on treadmill how do I calculate my steps? …. 1 walk 1hr+ & doesn’t read my steps, Q2. Do I have to wear it on my negative arm or can I have it on my leg to read steps? Thank you in advance, will watch more videos to get more savvy lol 😂
beautiful video! thank you! did the touchscreen give you problems? during the day did you ever find the screen changed?
+Guido Ambrosi absolutely it changed during the day and that’s why I definitely suggest to lock the touchscreen when not in use :) And thank you!
Great videos! very well explained. Do you think it worth on 2020?
For the current prices on the VA3, it's a hard watch to pass up. Thanks!
@@DesFit Thank you, Des! I appreciate!
Sure thing!
Nice range of comments here, from two years to recent months.
This might be a thing worth money at these times when nature needs less consumption.
Get the gunmetal rim color instead of silver. It's sexier and shows scratches less.
Hi.
What is the name of the digital wtachface?
Thanks Des I really appreciate your down to earth style and very comprehensive review this is the perfect Garmin for me :)
Hope you enjoy! Thanks!
Great review again. I would like to have seen some footage on the use of the Custom Workouts on this watch in combination with the touch screen interface. This is one of the selling points for me, to switch from my current VA HR to the VA3. And I think we are still waiting on the firmware update that enables manual lap via a double tap on the touchscreen. I am curious how well that will work...especially when running and/or in wet conditions.
+Patrick Craenmehr Thanks! I’ll probably do a stand-alone video on custom workouts that applies to more than just the VA3...kind of like the Strength Training video I published right before this one. I bet the lap option should work fine just like the AW as it’s similar but you are correct about how it would work in wet conditions. Thanks again!
Hi I have created a number of custom workouts for my 620 which ported across to the VA3 without issue. However the problem lies with the VA3 alerts. I hadn't realised that, unlike the 620, the VA3 does NOT have sound alerts. I should have checked this before purchase. This would be fine except that the VA3 vibration alert is so weak (even at the highest setting) that most of the time I don't feel it when running. This makes it impossible for me to use custom workouts or the run/walk timers which I depend on all the time when using the 620. It's interesting that I have not seen one reviewer mention the lack of a sound alert or the strength of the vibration alert. However I notice the lap alert more often than a timer or threshold alert and this may be due to a different pattern used. It's possible that a software update could improve the vibration alerts even though the hardware cannot be changed.
All the reviews I have seen say that the heart rate measurement of the VA3 compares well with using a belt. I have found my VA3 HR to vary quite a lot at times when compared to the 620 and belt. I even had one run when the VA 3 HR was reading well above what I have established to be my max HR over years of use with the 305 and 620.
I'm hoping these issues will improve with subsequent software updates.
Subscibing! Thank you for breaking things down and leaving a link tot he previous. I would like to ask being that I am just getting back into things and slowly becoming more active with each passing day I was wondering if this was worth an upgrade from my Vivosmart HR which is two years old?
There’s a lot more with the VA3 than the VSHR. I think it comes down to your budget. If you can afford it, and need more features then the VA3 is a great watch.
@@DesFit thank you. I'm still thinking on it. Main thing I'm hearing about VA3 lately is battery issues and holding a charge. Figured for about 120 more I could forego all those issues but budget is an issue lol
@Desfit Great videos! I'm coming from fitbit after four years. Crossing my fingwrs I'm making the right decision.
Question is during the winter months I'm running with a jacket and/or long sleeve shirt and I've seen the complaints about the screen being to sensitive but if it's locked it won't track runs?
Thank you Des for this thoroug review of the VA3. Personally my main sport is swimming but you didn't touch on that one at all. Like others I'm also considering the VA3 vs the upcoming Samsung Gear Sport assuming the latter has good swim tracking capabilities. Any thoughts on the Gear Sport and are you planning to review it as well? Thanks as always.
Which one did you get? How is it working for you?
@@JR-zw2vb Would like to know this too!
Im considering buying the vivoactive 3 for swimming but maybe there are better ones available. Im mainly concerned with accuracy when it comes to measuring laps, distance, strokes/strokes per min, swolf score, etc
@@thepainteditor I now have both (VA3 and Samsung Galaxy Watch 46mm)
had Fenix 3 titanium+HRM, VA1, and VA2 before... (all gone by now)
Samsung has caught up with swimming and other sport measurements. But it's still a smart watch + fitness capabilities.
Garmin is more sport activity watch (than a fitness) with little smartwatch capabilities.
I'm using Samsung with strata (free) and it's good for my simple activities so far. (Swim, run, walk, bike, hike, measuring water coffee intakes etc)
Both Garmin VA3 and Samsung Galaxy watch produces same results after over a mile of swim, respectively.
Some swear by Garmin, but after trying all VA lines, and Fenix3, I don't buy that. As long as it measures some, and keeps you happy and healthy either will do for me.
I keep VA3 as a sub for Golf. Because Samsung Galaxy requires a monthly premium for a golfzone app.
For smartwatch Samsung is pretty good. Unless you're an Apple user.
Let me know if you have any questions! Good luck!
@@JR-zw2vb Thanks for the feedback! This was very helpful.
One of the major things I liked about the VA3 over the samsung watch (active) is battery life, so that'll make a huge difference when deciding which watch to get. However, its nice knowing that these watches are pretty much neck-to-neck when it comes to results... I kind of just assumed that Garmins were more accurate. I'm planning on getting either one for $100 (used) so whichever Im able to find Ill try to get.
Cheers!
@@thepainteditor Garmin VA3 is superb for swims. If you can find the "music" line in that price range you've hit gold!
Upgraded from vivoactive first generation to this as a birthday gift and I was really happy with it first. However things got changed while using it. Watch may freeze somehow - it doesn't have a manual sleep mode, so it detects your sleep mode after you lay down (also by reduced HR I understood) and awake by your movement in the morning. In my total 35 days of use; it didn't wake up fm sleep mode for three mornings in different days and didn't count my steps at those mornings (after a soft reset, it went back to normal, but wasted step data :/ ). My primary and the biggest complains are regarding running app; first you can't get your avg. pace by metric (it only gives avg. pace based on miles while all my settings are arranged to kilometers); your run settings like laps and other things gone away after every run (for example I am using auto-laps at every 1K, but watch insists on to arrange it to 0,62K by itself strangely) and sometimes GPS is troubled & not correctly measuring the distance (especially on trails). Second issue is with the strenght training app; you can't adjust your sets and rest times for yourself (you can use a widget but I wish my brand new watch could do that). Also, it has a very very sensitive screen so I lock the screen before I sleep. While I sent my complains to Garmin Customer Service, I only got "we're working to fix these issues" replies, terrible CS btw. Not a good point? Of course it has: decent heart rate, good sleep tracking, very lightweight and good looking, good battery life. I am getting used to it & like it somehow, but I still pissed off with the avg. pace issue at most! I hope they can find a solution as soon as they do. Because endbuyers are not beta testers and Garmin does this to us so many times recently on other VA products.
I actually bright this watch and it is an amazing fitness tracker thanks
Battery life has gotten horable with software updates. I use mine for 1 hour then power down. By the next day it will be down to 10% or dead. This is while off. I usually love garmin but their lack of addressing this has really hurt my opinion of their support.
Good review other wise.
Hi Des, I recognize you've been doing a lot of testing the VA3. And thank you for all your good observations. But there's one thing I think should be mentioned. I'm returning my VA3 because of it. I simply cannot live with that one button. I have to lock the screen during wet winter exercises because the sleeve on my jacket or shirt keeps switching pages, and has even gotten itself into settings!
But with the screen locked I can do NOTHING during runs :/ I can't pause (ok there is autopause), or swipe to see the other screens. But most annoying to me is I can't take manual laps. The double-tap action is 50-50 at best anyway with winter gloves. And you know you want it to be spot on during those fast laps.
IMO Garmin should have added a couple of more buttons - the it would have been perfect for more serious runners.
Awesome review. Thank you!
Sure thing! Thanks!
Thank you so much for the time and effort you put into your reviews, it has been really helpful, subscribed!! :-)
+Francisca Sapag Thanks!
i am thinking about this watch or the Apple Watch 4. I will be using it for cycling and running and exercising.
I have a VA 3 and my colleague has an AW. Va pros: battery life and the reflective always on display. AW is better in terms of smart watch functionality, as well as a lot of useful stuff brought by the latest updates (and they will keep coming). Bottom line - I'd buy an AW if I had an iPhone.
@@Xdc5 Thanks for reply. I can get the VA3 Music through my health insurance for $161. As much as i want to the Apple watch 4 I might end up withe VA3 music at that price.
Great review videos. Really helped me make my mind up on what to get as my next Garmin ;) Keep up the great content.
Thanks!
danny2rod __ aa
Thank you for this review. Just to clarify -1. If I do not start/stop at the beginning of work out sessions it will not sync up with the connect app but will only retain for the day in the watch itself and I will end up losing that day's data for my monthly log? 2. What are my options here to listen to music w/o having to carry my phone and/or without having to pay for monthly music app. TIA!
Great video, Question - Do VA3 including vibration for support Deaf person cause can't hear a beep ?
awesome review, Des! Really like the format and your effort to take an unbiased point of reference. However, I am really curious concerning the upcoming comparison with the Apple watch, especially concerning being biased: you are an everyday Garmin user while having that Apple watch high that supposedly lasts for at least a couple of months. These two could actually outbalance each other ;-D
Keep up the good work! All the best from Hannover, Germany.
+Mathias Rhein It’s been an interesting experience testing both Garmin and Apple at the same time and that’s really the perspective I am trying to provide is from a long time Garmin owner. Thanks so much!
well, owning an apple watch grandpa myself and having ordered a va3 I am all the more curious for a second opinion ;-)
I like my Vivoactive 3 but I have had problems with watch faces changing unintentionally. Another oddity has been the stair counter. Roughly a month ago, the watch started telling me that I had climbed 7 or 8 or even 10 times my stair goal. I’m 67, live in Florida (flat...). I’m lucky if I actually go up one flight of stairs a day not 10 or 12 floors.
Thanks so much for this great review!! Can't wait to see your full review on the Apple Watch Series 3 👍🏾
+Brian Lancaster Been collecting A TON of information and data from testing and should have something out later this week! Thanks!
Hey man! Due to your previous reviews on the VA3, I ditched my Apple Watch Series 2 for this watch. And I love the stainless steel finish more so than the slate. To me it just looks classier, but of course that’s a matter of opinion. I know this is competing with the Apple Watch, but this watch is catered to people who want a fitness watch first and smart watch second. While the Apple Watch is great, Apple just doesn’t have the software and all of the health and activity statistics that you can get with a Garmin watch like the VA3. That is the primary reason I switched to this watch. So yes, the Apple Watch is a great smartwatch, but as far as a health and activity watch, it can’t compete with this Garmin watch.
I've had my Vivo Acctive 3 for about 18 months now and when it's working, I love it. I wear it as my every day watch, only take it off before bed and plug it into the charger. I use the GPS for tracking my bike rides and the battery life has been long enough to track a couple 6-7hr rides without fail.
However, 3 times since I've owned it, the touch screen has frozen and become completely unusable. The first time it was right after a long, cold weather bike ride. The next time was after a hot sauna session, and the last time (last week) just for no reason I could figure. Each time the screen froze in the watch mode, so it would still tell time, but I couldn't get it to do anything else, other than shut off by holding the button in for 10 seconds.
After the first time it froze, (after about 6 months of use) I called Gamin customer support and he told me to hold in the off button for 30 seconds after it shut down, which I did, 3 times, and it finally started working normally again. But the next two times the screen froze, no amount of shutting and restarting it would fix it. I called Garmin again and they said send it back for replacement, which I was about to do....when it started working normally again! It just started functioning all by itself, I hadn't just shut it down, this was after a week of being frozen!
That was about 2 months ago, but it just froze up again! This time it's been a week of frozen uselessness, but this time the watch set itself to some bizarre time zone, about 12:25 ahead of my actual time zone! So now it's useless even as a basic watch. I've already put it back in the original box it came in when I bought it (for $329!) and I'll be shipping it back to Garmin tomorrow. Hopefully they can fix or replace it.
I do love the watch when it's working for all the reasons listed in the above video, oh, but my strap tail keeper broke after about 1yr, so there's that. But I love the Garmin Connect app on my phone and tablet for tracking and storing my bike rides and other stuff I do when wearing the watch. As long as Garmin will support it and replace it, I'll keep using their stuff. I have a couple of their other GPS units, a 3 Pilot for my light airplane, and a hand held Etrex for hiking which I also use when sailing, both have been great. I hope they can fix my watch!