Garmin Instinct 3 Review
– According to Grégory Chanez of nakan.ch, the review examines the Garmin Instinct 3 with a focus on its evolution in hardware while noting that the software updates do not match the extent of the physical enhancements. The device is offered in two variants: one with a transflective monochrome display featuring solar recharging and another with an AMOLED display without solar capability. Both variants are available in 45 and 50-millimetre sizes, with a smaller 40-millimetre option reserved for a basic edition.
Chanez explains that the hardware improvements include the addition of an integrated LED torch on every model, the introduction of an aluminium bezel on select variants, and significant upgrades in solar recharging performance for the Solar model. The AMOLED variant also benefits from increased storage capacity. Regarding software, the review outlines modest enhancements such as integrating advanced training load metrics, sleep coaching with nap tracking, automatic transitions for multisport profiles, and improved connectivity options. However, these updates are described as less substantial than the broader hardware modifications range.
source nakan.ch
The testing phase provided further insights into the device’s performance. In a nearly seven-hour cycling session with a 45-millimetre Solar model, the battery level dropped from approximately 79% to 41% under limited sunlight, falling short of the manufacturer’s claims. Heart rate measurements were evaluated in several scenarios: a threshold run yielded an average discrepancy of less than one beat per minute with a maximum difference of seven beats per minute; a varied pace run resulted in a slightly higher average deviation of 1.3 beats per minute; and during cycling, significant inconsistencies were observed with a maximum error reaching 38 beats per minute. Additionally, the GNSS and GPS performance generally provided consistent distance and route tracking compared to reference devices. Yet, altitude calibration showed irregularities over prolonged activities, with abrupt discrepancies noted at the start of some sessions.
Chanez further voices concerns regarding the navigation features, which remain limited to track recording without integrated mapping. He points out that this shortcoming is particularly noticeable in a market where competing devices offer more comprehensive cartographic functions. Moreover, the review highlights technical instabilities, including unexpected restarts during activity recordings and occasional issues with altitude tracking. These factors contribute to an ambiguous positioning of the Instinct 3, leaving its role between an outdoor watch and a dedicated sports device somewhat undefined, a point that the reviewer believes even Garmin appears to struggle with.
Overall, Grégory Chanez concludes that while the Garmin Instinct 3 fulfils its primary functions and delivers a familiar experience for long-time Garmin users, the observed inconsistencies and technical challenges cast doubt on its ability to decisively meet the expectations of both outdoor enthusiasts and sports professionals. His review is perhaps more critical than others from English-language sites.
More: nakan.ch