Thanks for the great review! Your review of the VAHR helped me decide to get that 2 years ago, and I loved it. Unfortunately, it randomly died a few days ago, but this video convinced me to get the VA3M! Thanks for including so many activities in your reviews (running, cycling, swimming, golfing, weight training, etc), I think that sets your videos apart!! Can't wait to use it in the pool :D
why does it seem like you are slating the vivactive 3 music's HR sensor and tracking but praise the vivoactive 3's (without music)?..are they different? or have you changed your opinion about the HR sensor? great channel bro..
TheGtownman sensors are the same, the reason why they are giving different numbers is their size. I think it’s on 6:09 when Eric says that thinner watches have better accuracy. VAC3 music is a slightly thicker
Nice review, I have to disagree about the Stratos comparison though. I own both the FR 645m and the Stratos (having also owned the pace and the Garmin vivoactive hr) and have found a quite consistent underestimation of the Stratos (compared to a cheststrap) of approx 30-50bmp during biking and running (even after the recent firmware update). Don't get me wrong I still think the Stratos is great value but the OHR is really inaccurate at the moment, leading to greatly biased first beat estimates. The strange thing is that my amazfit pace was not this inaccurate; so I am still hoping amazfit will fix this issue with their algorithm. Until then the only advice (as a biomedical scientist specialized in optical heart rate measurement) would be to only use the Stratos with a chest strap during sports.
Thanks for weighing in. I’ll be the first to admit that the Amazfit sensor is subpar compared to the Garmin Elevate sensor. I have a general mistrust of just about every optical sensor though, and I would always recommend a chest strap for those that want/need accurate data, regardless of what activity they are tracking. All that to say: I appreciate your feedback!
Hi Eric, I can understand your general mistrust, though as a clinical specialist in this field (and having brought a OHR device to market as a Medical Device in the EU and USA) I can attest that OHR can be accurate enough (+/- 5-10 bmp) for medical purposes even compared to ECG measurement (you can find my open access publication here: mhealth.jmir.org/2017/2/e10/ ). That being said, for certain skin types or certain conditions, OHR are not suited and a general problem is that people disregard propper wearing/use instructions such as ensuring close skin contact and doing propper warming up (so that there is enough blood flow in the extremities in during cold conditions). Also, just like pixle peeping photographs, you should not zoom in too much on PPG/ECGs and look at the basic trends + parameters such as resting heart rate which are better health predicitors. But these large consistent differences that the Stratos is reporting are unacceptable though. Best of luck with your channel. If you ever want to do some more advanced statistical analyses to quantify your heart rate comparisons, I would be happy to help out.
Just to add: Full disclosure; I worked for Philips, though are no longer affiliated with them (or any other manufacturer of OHR devices) any more (now working as a data analist for 7 hospitals in NL).
YOu mention that VA3 and Music have the same display, touchscreen gives the same user experience and colors are the same? I don't love my VA3 and thinking of somehow upgrading for a better display.. . Thanks for the review!
Hey Eric... I don't think so HRM Swim is compatible with this (you mentioned it as compatible at 4:49)... both Tri & Swim have no listing of any of vivo series... Please chk again ... thank you for the review
Ah yes, thanks for the correction. So here’s what I found out: the HRM is compatible with the VA3M, but only as a waterproof heart rate monitor. The VA3M is not able to download the stored data on the chest strap itself. So what that means is that if the chest strap loses connectivity to the watch during the swim, The heart rate data will drop out during that time and be lost. And under water, The possibility of experiencing those dropouts is relatively high. So it’s not completely useless, but it definitely has limited functionality.
@@AMK83 yes, you can configure time interval on app... lots of new features on every firmware update, maybe some day will be possible to configure interval on the watch
Even NFC is limited on the Garmin watches. It works well when I've tried it on my VA3 but with very limited banking options. From speaking with Garmin about this I get the impression we are years away from being able to use American Express with it.
Galaxy S3 frontier vs vivoactive 3 music. Heeeelp, I can't decide if I want to upgrade my s3 to a vivo active 3 music or not. I think if I did I might miss the Bezel
make correction in the video ... VivoActive 3 cannot download the data from HRM SWIM after swim workout ... it doesn't have the feature and thus VA3 is not capable of measuring HR data by any means in SWIM mode - both - by Optics or by chest strap (even when used HRM-SWIM) ....
Great Post. Is the software (apart from music) any different from the vivoactive 3? Also, just saying, that protruding glass bezel scares the living heck out of me!!!!
Apart from the music, the software is the same. The only other real difference is that the original VA3 has a touch sensor on the side to swipe between screens (so you don’t have to block the touchscreen with your fingers). The new VA3Music did away with this.
Hi, i'm new in your channel and i like your reviews very much. So, i want to buy a smartwatch to use everyday and in the gym. What is your choices? Best Quality/Price? Thank you for your time.
Hi When charging the watch is it a case of simply plugging straight into the computer without touching the watch or do you need to turn it on first? I ask as getting it wrong could mean the difference between it getting a full charge or wrong charge resulting in the battery never ever getting fully charged from then on it
Hey Eric, could you do a fitness review of the Samsung Galaxy watch. Also it seems there's a workaround for connecting an external heart rate sensor with a watch face in that.
Thanks for the heads up man, I will search for those channels and report them. Thanks for looking out for me, definitely hurts my views and add revenue when they do that!
Hey I got a question, does playing music on those watches can disturb the activity tracking and give inaccurate data? And if yes which watch handles it better? Thanks!
Hey Eric, I wanted to ask your help since you are the encyclopaedia for wearables. I got a Vivoactive 3 and use it with my trusted old Scosche rhythm+ both recommended by you. I downloaded an app called Strength training plus from the connect IQ store. Though this app is fantastic, the moment I start it out stops using the Scosche and jumps back to the inbuilt optical HRM of VA3. The developer says it might be because Scosche is getting connected to the watch as a Bluetooth device and not as an Ant+ device. Do you know what should be done to make this app work with Scosche.
Hi. I may of misunderstood you but did you say the design of the face )glass) was different to that of the Vivoactive 3 or is the 3 exactly the same as the 3 Music (design wise) with just the added bonus of music capability? Thanks in advance. Great review
My Stratos is still working, yes. I think that Garmin and Polar always made the most reliable wearables, But it seems like Fitbit has finally caught up. Still...I think Garmin probably makes the most reliable.
Leaving out the “music feature”, vivoactive 3 music is more reliable (in terms of data fidelity and battery duration) and has more features than the vivoactive 3?
My understanding is that the differences are going to be pretty small. I did hear that some of the VA music devices got an upgraded Sony GPS, but I haven’t torn into them to confirm that. Other than that, there are not really going to be many differences
Would like to know this too! Im trying to find an accurate fitness tracker for swimming but it does seem that the VA3 would be best for what i want, especially at that price range.
Thanks Eric, awesome stuff as always! I've been trying to decide between the VivoActive 3 and Amazfit Stratos. Based on what you said and what I've read, the Amazfit doesnt have Gym & HIIT training workout modes and you have to choose the Elliptical mode which isn't as accurate vs the VivoActive 3. What mode do you use with the Amazfit for such workouts? Is it recommended if most of my workouts are circuit and gym based exercises?
You are correct, and so I use the indoor jogging (gps disabled) mode for when I lift weights. It’s sucks that it’s not as accurate, but it’s not as bad as you’d think.
Yes, IF you connect to an external hr sensor. If you don’t want that hassle, then the hr sensor on the VA3 is better, and I’d go that way. I personally prefer using the Amazfit with an external sensor.
Great comparison. I've been looking at these two. Moving from my fitbit blaze. In terms of "smartwatch" features, is one better than the other? And how's the OHR sensor at rest on the Stratos?
In terms of smart watch features the Garmin offers more. But not by much. The HR sensor on the Amazfit at rest is good. The VA3M is again better, but not by much.
Kinda interesting on the amazfit side, just curious aside from accuracy how about the overall software experience while on iPhone (since sometimes iPhone not playing well with third party accessories like this)? is it fluid and smooth or there is some hiccup here and there? I am looking forward to buy amazfit but not the stratos but the cheaper version amazfit pace which I see is pretty much the same except extra workout option, swim proof and some cosmetic differences.
I’ve got the older version vivoactive HR which I love but it has a rubber wrist band which causes a rash on my arm. I’ve looked at getting the newer version of the vivoactives but they only sell them now with a med-large wrist and I require the extra large band. Even getting a replacement band for my current one has become a night mare and very hard to find. Garmin are forcing people like myself with large wrist sizes to get the more expensive products like Fenix and the like for like $1500 a pop instead of the cheaper $400 vivoactive range which has totally pissed me off as I love the vivoactive HR If only they did a vivoactive with a large stainless steel band as I can not afford $1500 for the Fenix range.
Any information or thoughts on connectivity with BT Apple Airpods? Hearing mixed reviews on this VA3 blue tooth strength and connectivity in general.... my concern is with apple though.
May I know why treadmill vs vivoactive 3M distance are difference ? I.e : treadmill run 2km and vivoactive 3m showing 3.5km .. could this because of setting ? Can help please ...
I was convinced to buy this watch but I have a problem with the notifications. Even though the app shows that my phone and my watch are connected I don't get any incoming calls or messages or app notifications. Does anyone else has the same problem?
I don't understand why the heart rate monitor would be accurate when running but when lifting weights. The arms move much less when lifting dumbbells than when running. Weird...
It’s a common effect that is now well documented: unfortunately those kinds of exercises impede blood flow to the arms (muscles are contracted while reading) and throw off the accuracy.
The best for horse riding is actually the Apple Watch because you can download specific apps to track horseback riding. The only reason I know this is because my wife and daughter both ride.
It depends, if you are mostly triathlete (swimming, riding, running) then I would definitely tell you to go with the 645. If you do other exercises too like weightlifting or strength training, the VA3 would be better.
@@TechyAgentI usually run once a week and do calestenics in the park. So I'm worried about the recovery information and metrics. Not really sure which one to get. Also heart rate is better on 645 or the same? Thanks a lot for your reply!
I think the durability of the VA3 is probably going to be better long-term compared to the VA3 Music because of the different screen design. That being said I like the looks of the VA3 Music more.
Techy Agent would you go with the Samsung gear s3 or vivoactive??, which is tougher?? I had a vivosmart 3 liked the device hated the strap. The strap keeps breaking.
I've bought the Stratos and find it great for the price. Battery lasts about 4 days with a few workouts using GPS and music and the GPS is just as accurate as my phone. Plus I was really pleased with the look and quality feel of it.
Nice review Eric. On the topic of music, not too many have MP3 files on their computers any more. For the streams services, I would estimate that 99% of people have either Spotify, Apple, or Google music. Garmin is going with this on all their devices, but they have to seriously up their game to get at least one of the top music streaming services on board.
10000000% agree. Just to test the device I had to create new mp3s because I have had streaming services for 3 years now. While I appreciate their attempt, it does feel like they are releasing a product that is already irrelevant. Here is how I look at the Vivoactive: Getting an B+ in terms of what it tracks/accuracy. Getting a B in terms of build quality. Getting a C on the app design. Getting a D in terms of the smart watch experience (including music playback).
Techy Agent I agree with your opinions. Really, I think the best combo of a smartwatch and GPS watch is the Apple Watch 3. As an android user I am waiting for the next generation of Wear watches. I've read that they are going to make an entirely new chip set just for the Watch, which would be great. If it could match the AW3 I would be interested. The problem is that Google has not put any effort into making this happen in the past. I'm hoping for Google to make it happen this time.
Techy Agent They need to also improve Google Fit as that software is in severe need of improving. They just have not cared about this in the past. Hopefully they will get a viable product onto the market.
the screen/display quality on that watch is shockingly bad!!! My wife returned it in 5 min. after opening the box. Why do they offer color display as you can barely see colors so washed out it is??? Contrast like watches from 10 years ago or toys for little kids, resolution 220x220 - you can literally see all the squares from 0.5m distance - come on people its 2019!!!! They should be lawsuit for selling this crap for such a money....
I do like the look of this watch! Great information, Eric!!
Thanks Kendra! Yeah, I think it looks great, hopefully that glass is durable.
Thanks for the great review! Your review of the VAHR helped me decide to get that 2 years ago, and I loved it. Unfortunately, it randomly died a few days ago, but this video convinced me to get the VA3M! Thanks for including so many activities in your reviews (running, cycling, swimming, golfing, weight training, etc), I think that sets your videos apart!! Can't wait to use it in the pool :D
Exactly. So many exercise.
why does it seem like you are slating the vivactive 3 music's HR sensor and tracking but praise the vivoactive 3's (without music)?..are they different? or have you changed your opinion about the HR sensor? great channel bro..
TheGtownman sensors are the same, the reason why they are giving different numbers is their size. I think it’s on 6:09 when Eric says that thinner watches have better accuracy.
VAC3 music is a slightly thicker
Nice review, I have to disagree about the Stratos comparison though. I own both the FR 645m and the Stratos (having also owned the pace and the Garmin vivoactive hr) and have found a quite consistent underestimation of the Stratos (compared to a cheststrap) of approx 30-50bmp during biking and running (even after the recent firmware update). Don't get me wrong I still think the Stratos is great value but the OHR is really inaccurate at the moment, leading to greatly biased first beat estimates. The strange thing is that my amazfit pace was not this inaccurate; so I am still hoping amazfit will fix this issue with their algorithm. Until then the only advice (as a biomedical scientist specialized in optical heart rate measurement) would be to only use the Stratos with a chest strap during sports.
Thanks for weighing in. I’ll be the first to admit that the Amazfit sensor is subpar compared to the Garmin Elevate sensor. I have a general mistrust of just about every optical sensor though, and I would always recommend a chest strap for those that want/need accurate data, regardless of what activity they are tracking. All that to say: I appreciate your feedback!
Hi Eric, I can understand your general mistrust, though as a clinical specialist in this field (and having brought a OHR device to market as a Medical Device in the EU and USA) I can attest that OHR can be accurate enough (+/- 5-10 bmp) for medical purposes even compared to ECG measurement (you can find my open access publication here: mhealth.jmir.org/2017/2/e10/ ). That being said, for certain skin types or certain conditions, OHR are not suited and a general problem is that people disregard propper wearing/use instructions such as ensuring close skin contact and doing propper warming up (so that there is enough blood flow in the extremities in during cold conditions). Also, just like pixle peeping photographs, you should not zoom in too much on PPG/ECGs and look at the basic trends + parameters such as resting heart rate which are better health predicitors. But these large consistent differences that the Stratos is reporting are unacceptable though.
Best of luck with your channel. If you ever want to do some more advanced statistical analyses to quantify your heart rate comparisons, I would be happy to help out.
Just to add: Full disclosure; I worked for Philips, though are no longer affiliated with them (or any other manufacturer of OHR devices) any more (now working as a data analist for 7 hospitals in NL).
That’s very interesting! I’ll check out your article. In your opinion, who is making the best optical sensor right now?
I've got the Stratos and have found wearing the watch a little tighter than normal on runs seems to give better more consistent HR readings
YOu mention that VA3 and Music have the same display, touchscreen gives the same user experience and colors are the same? I don't love my VA3 and thinking of somehow upgrading for a better display.. . Thanks for the review!
Hey Eric... I don't think so HRM Swim is compatible with this (you mentioned it as compatible at 4:49)... both Tri & Swim have no listing of any of vivo series... Please chk again ... thank you for the review
Ah yes, thanks for the correction. So here’s what I found out: the HRM is compatible with the VA3M, but only as a waterproof heart rate monitor. The VA3M is not able to download the stored data on the chest strap itself. So what that means is that if the chest strap loses connectivity to the watch during the swim, The heart rate data will drop out during that time and be lost. And under water, The possibility of experiencing those dropouts is relatively high. So it’s not completely useless, but it definitely has limited functionality.
Techy Agent x
... loving my stratos! It's all I need for my triathlon!!
Nice!
Is there interval timer in the stratos?
@@AMK83 yes, you can configure time interval on app... lots of new features on every firmware update, maybe some day will be possible to configure interval on the watch
How is the battery
@@franciscolopez19867 if you use GPS 2h a day it will last 3 days, if you don't use gps neither sync the watch with phone it can reach 8 days
Even NFC is limited on the Garmin watches. It works well when I've tried it on my VA3 but with very limited banking options. From speaking with Garmin about this I get the impression we are years away from being able to use American Express with it.
I’ve only tried it with my Visa, but my local credit union card doesn’t work with it.
Techy Agent The connection is stronger than my cell phone's NFC, but limited banking options. With AW3, you can likely use any credit card.
Galaxy S3 frontier vs vivoactive 3 music. Heeeelp, I can't decide if I want to upgrade my s3 to a vivo active 3 music or not.
I think if I did I might miss the Bezel
make correction in the video ... VivoActive 3 cannot download the data from HRM SWIM after swim workout ... it doesn't have the feature and thus VA3 is not capable of measuring HR data by any means in SWIM mode - both - by Optics or by chest strap (even when used HRM-SWIM) ....
Great Post. Is the software (apart from music) any different from the vivoactive 3? Also, just saying, that protruding glass bezel scares the living heck out of me!!!!
Apart from the music, the software is the same. The only other real difference is that the original VA3 has a touch sensor on the side to swipe between screens (so you don’t have to block the touchscreen with your fingers). The new VA3Music did away with this.
Hi, i'm new in your channel and i like your reviews very much. So, i want to buy a smartwatch to use everyday and in the gym. What is your choices? Best Quality/Price? Thank you for your time.
Hi When charging the watch is it a case of simply plugging straight into the computer without touching the watch or do you need to turn it on first? I ask as getting it wrong could mean the difference between it getting a full charge or wrong charge resulting in the battery never ever getting fully charged from then on it
Hey Eric, could you do a fitness review of the Samsung Galaxy watch. Also it seems there's a workaround for connecting an external heart rate sensor with a watch face in that.
Just a heads up, if you search ”live Fenix 5 plus” there 3 accounts that have stolen videos from you
Thanks for the heads up man, I will search for those channels and report them. Thanks for looking out for me, definitely hurts my views and add revenue when they do that!
Looks like I was hit with a plagiarism bot: that video was uploaded by six or seven different RUclips accounts.
Hey I got a question, does playing music on those watches can disturb the activity tracking and give inaccurate data? And if yes which watch handles it better? Thanks!
Hey Eric, I wanted to ask your help since you are the encyclopaedia for wearables. I got a Vivoactive 3 and use it with my trusted old Scosche rhythm+ both recommended by you. I downloaded an app called Strength training plus from the connect IQ store. Though this app is fantastic, the moment I start it out stops using the Scosche and jumps back to the inbuilt optical HRM of VA3. The developer says it might be because Scosche is getting connected to the watch as a Bluetooth device and not as an Ant+ device. Do you know what should be done to make this app work with Scosche.
where can i find a recap of the differences between the music and the vanilla one version?
Is the vivoactive 3 HR sensor as accurate as the one on the vivoactive 3 music?
In theory it should be since they share the same sensor.
Did you pair the watch (Stratos & Vivoactive 3) with an iPhone? Did it work with the iPhone?
Yes, I paired both with an iPhone and they both work perfectly. Obviously both watches will work with android as well
Hi. I may of misunderstood you but did you say the design of the face )glass) was different to that of the Vivoactive 3 or is the 3 exactly the same as the 3 Music (design wise) with just the added bonus of music capability? Thanks in advance. Great review
The design is indeed a little different. Try searching the vivo active 3 and vivo active 3 music in google.
Another question after all this month is the Stratos still working? Which smartwatch you will consider more reliable Fitbit’s, Stratos, Samsung?
My Stratos is still working, yes. I think that Garmin and Polar always made the most reliable wearables, But it seems like Fitbit has finally caught up. Still...I think Garmin probably makes the most reliable.
Garmin vivoactive 3 music or apple watch 3...? Im debating helpp
Leaving out the “music feature”, vivoactive 3 music is more reliable (in terms of data fidelity and battery duration) and has more features than the vivoactive 3?
My understanding is that the differences are going to be pretty small. I did hear that some of the VA music devices got an upgraded Sony GPS, but I haven’t torn into them to confirm that. Other than that, there are not really going to be many differences
Techy Agent, Thanks!
how will you rate this for Squash ?/
which watch is better?
How does garmin compare to the stratos in swimming? You don't say anything about the stratos
Would like to know this too! Im trying to find an accurate fitness tracker for swimming but it does seem that the VA3 would be best for what i want, especially at that price range.
Thanks Eric, awesome stuff as always!
I've been trying to decide between the VivoActive 3 and Amazfit Stratos. Based on what you said and what I've read, the Amazfit doesnt have Gym & HIIT training workout modes and you have to choose the Elliptical mode which isn't as accurate vs the VivoActive 3.
What mode do you use with the Amazfit for such workouts? Is it recommended if most of my workouts are circuit and gym based exercises?
You are correct, and so I use the indoor jogging (gps disabled) mode for when I lift weights. It’s sucks that it’s not as accurate, but it’s not as bad as you’d think.
Well if that's the case, I guess the Amazfit is the winner :) Do you agree?
Yes, IF you connect to an external hr sensor. If you don’t want that hassle, then the hr sensor on the VA3 is better, and I’d go that way. I personally prefer using the Amazfit with an external sensor.
Ok perfect, thanks for the tip!
Great comparison. I've been looking at these two. Moving from my fitbit blaze. In terms of "smartwatch" features, is one better than the other? And how's the OHR sensor at rest on the Stratos?
In terms of smart watch features the Garmin offers more. But not by much. The HR sensor on the Amazfit at rest is good. The VA3M is again better, but not by much.
Wow nice watch were where u at when u hit the tire lol good vid do u know when that one vid will come out that I had with the 360 cam👍😀
Kinda interesting on the amazfit side, just curious aside from accuracy how about the overall software experience while on iPhone (since sometimes iPhone not playing well with third party accessories like this)? is it fluid and smooth or there is some hiccup here and there?
I am looking forward to buy amazfit but not the stratos but the cheaper version amazfit pace which I see is pretty much the same except extra workout option, swim proof and some cosmetic differences.
Hi, pls wat HRM can I get with this? Should I go for a Garmin or a schoche rhythm plus
How do you feel about the curved glass on the screen? Have you ever been worried about it breaking?
It’s a concern, but a small one. Garmin uses a pretty strong glass, so it should hold up well.
I’ve got the older version vivoactive HR which I love but it has a rubber wrist band which causes a rash on my arm. I’ve looked at getting the newer version of the vivoactives but they only sell them now with a med-large wrist and I require the extra large band. Even getting a replacement band for my current one has become a night mare and very hard to find. Garmin are forcing people like myself with large wrist sizes to get the more expensive products like Fenix and the like for like $1500 a pop instead of the cheaper $400 vivoactive range which has totally pissed me off as I love the vivoactive HR
If only they did a vivoactive with a large stainless steel band as I can not afford $1500 for the Fenix range.
Any information or thoughts on connectivity with BT Apple Airpods? Hearing mixed reviews on this VA3 blue tooth strength and connectivity in general.... my concern is with apple though.
May I know why treadmill vs vivoactive 3M distance are difference ? I.e : treadmill run 2km and vivoactive 3m showing 3.5km .. could this because of setting ? Can help please ...
I was convinced to buy this watch but I have a problem with the notifications. Even though the app shows that my phone and my watch are connected I don't get any incoming calls or messages or app notifications. Does anyone else has the same problem?
How can I turn off the rep counting for strenght Workout? I would do it like you without stopping my rest pause and all that
You can use another mode, I think there should be one for “cardio” that will use your heart rate in order to estimate calories
Techy Agent you did it also in this way?
Does it have ski tracking and trackback function ?
Can you replace the battery in the stratos?
I compare vivoactive 3 music against forerunner 645.. i think forerunner 645 is better than this... any idea?
Yes it’s better.
Awesome video.
I don't understand why the heart rate monitor would be accurate when running but when lifting weights. The arms move much less when lifting dumbbells than when running. Weird...
It’s a common effect that is now well documented: unfortunately those kinds of exercises impede blood flow to the arms (muscles are contracted while reading) and throw off the accuracy.
@@TechyAgent Good to know, thanks Eric!!
Hi , please one question, i already asked the question, is there interval timer in the stratos ?
There is not an interval timer on the Stratos
Yes
Can we load bought iTunes music files and play from the Vivoactive music? Or it only plays MP3 file format?
It only plays MP3 file format
And the subtitules?
Do you know if this would be any good for horse riding?
The best for horse riding is actually the Apple Watch because you can download specific apps to track horseback riding. The only reason I know this is because my wife and daughter both ride.
Hi would you buy the amazfit over the ionic
thanks
It depends. For gps based cardio, no. But the Ionic is better lifting weight and other gym based exercise.
Techy Agent
which do you think is best to buy from ionic or vivoactive music
I mainly want it for outdoor running thanks
For weightlifting again I would go with Ionic.
VA3 or 645? Music both of course
It depends, if you are mostly triathlete (swimming, riding, running) then I would definitely tell you to go with the 645. If you do other exercises too like weightlifting or strength training, the VA3 would be better.
@@TechyAgentI usually run once a week and do calestenics in the park. So I'm worried about the recovery information and metrics. Not really sure which one to get. Also heart rate is better on 645 or the same? Thanks a lot for your reply!
Do they both show pace while running (not only per mile)??
Yes, both show current pace and average pace
What do you think of durability of the vivoactive 3?
I think the durability of the VA3 is probably going to be better long-term compared to the VA3 Music because of the different screen design. That being said I like the looks of the VA3 Music more.
Techy Agent would you go with the Samsung gear s3 or vivoactive??, which is tougher?? I had a vivosmart 3 liked the device hated the strap. The strap keeps breaking.
I have the VA3 stainless still and love it i m not worry about the music at all it feel more stronger than VA3 music plus for me better looking
Hey! Wondering if someone could help me out. Should i get Vivoactive 3 music or the Forerunner 735 XT? Both on Sale on Amazon, £179.99 and £216.95.
The price though... Btw don't you do too much of intensive exercises?
Yeah, that price is still up there! That’s why I continue to recommend the Amazfit Stratos.
Too much intensity exercise? I don’t think I do too much?
I've bought the Stratos and find it great for the price. Battery lasts about 4 days with a few workouts using GPS and music and the GPS is just as accurate as my phone. Plus I was really pleased with the look and quality feel of it.
Strava compatibility of Amazfit?
Yep, if you have the international version, it does have a Strava compatibility
You can add the Strava account onto the amazfit app and it syncs up
Nice review Eric. On the topic of music, not too many have MP3 files on their computers any more. For the streams services, I would estimate that 99% of people have either Spotify, Apple, or Google music. Garmin is going with this on all their devices, but they have to seriously up their game to get at least one of the top music streaming services on board.
10000000% agree. Just to test the device I had to create new mp3s because I have had streaming services for 3 years now. While I appreciate their attempt, it does feel like they are releasing a product that is already irrelevant. Here is how I look at the Vivoactive: Getting an B+ in terms of what it tracks/accuracy. Getting a B in terms of build quality. Getting a C on the app design. Getting a D in terms of the smart watch experience (including music playback).
Techy Agent I agree with your opinions. Really, I think the best combo of a smartwatch and GPS watch is the Apple Watch 3. As an android user I am waiting for the next generation of Wear watches. I've read that they are going to make an entirely new chip set just for the Watch, which would be great. If it could match the AW3 I would be interested. The problem is that Google has not put any effort into making this happen in the past. I'm hoping for Google to make it happen this time.
I would LOVE to see android wear focus on health and fitness.
Techy Agent They need to also improve Google Fit as that software is in severe need of improving. They just have not cared about this in the past. Hopefully they will get a viable product onto the market.
Exactly, from the hardware to the software, they need to update the health and fitness side. More than update really, a total refresh.
Unfortunately Garmin did leave out open water swimming from the Vivoactive 3.
That is true!
Techy Agent Also, the HR straps for swimming do not work with the Vivoactive 3.
batery life???
The best cardio jump rope 153
Jumping rope is INTENSE. It’s one of my favorite cardio exercises.
"Physical mp3s" xD
How does Garmin Pay work if it works at all?
hi we see u at the ymca
pool
Garmin GPS
the screen/display quality on that watch is shockingly bad!!! My wife returned it in 5 min. after opening the box. Why do they offer color display as you can barely see colors so washed out it is??? Contrast like watches from 10 years ago or toys for little kids, resolution 220x220 - you can literally see all the squares from 0.5m distance - come on people its 2019!!!! They should be lawsuit for selling this crap for such a money....