Garmin Venu 3 vs 3S: Which One is the Best Fit For You?

Garmin’s Venu series has been a game-changer in the world of smartwatches, particularly for those who prioritize health and fitness. With the release of the Garmin Venu 3 and Venu 3S, users are now faced with the challenging decision of choosing between two advanced devices that, at first glance, seem quite similar. But as with most tech products, the devil is in the details. This article aims to help you navigate these details, thoroughly comparing the Garmin Venu 3 and the Garmin Venu 3S. Whether you’re looking for the best overall option, the most cost-effective choice, or the device that excels in health monitoring, we’ve got you covered.

Let's dive into the comparison and see which stands out for your needs.

Garmin Venu 3 vs 3S: The Verdict

When comparing the Garmin Venu 3 and the Venu 3S, it’s crucial to consider what you’re looking for in a smartwatch. Both devices share a multitude of features, including advanced health monitoring, fitness tracking, and smart functionalities. However, they cater to slightly different audiences due to variations in size, battery life, and price. Here’s the breakdown:

• Best Overall: Garmin Venu 3
• The Venu 3 edges out as the best overall due to its larger display, which makes it easier to read data, and slightly better battery life. This model is ideal for users who want a robust smartwatch experience without compromising on screen size or longevity.
• Best by Price: Garmin Venu 3S
• While both models are priced similarly, the Venu 3S often comes with slight discounts, making it the more budget-friendly option. This is particularly beneficial for users who prefer a more compact watch and are looking to save a bit of money.
• Best for Health Monitoring: Tie
• Both the Venu 3 and 3S offer identical health monitoring features, including heart rate tracking, sleep analysis, and advanced wellness insights. Therefore, the choice comes down to personal preference regarding size and comfort.
• Best for Smaller Wrists: Garmin Venu 3S
• With a smaller, lighter design, the Venu 3S is perfect for those with smaller wrists or who prefer a more discreet smartwatch. It offers the same powerful features as the Venu 3 but in a more compact form factor.

If these options seem to meet your needs, keep reading for a more detailed breakdown of their features. Alternatively, if you’re looking for something slightly different, we’ll also suggest some compelling alternatives.

Garmin Venu 3 vs 3S: Detailed Comparison

In this section, we’ll delve into the key features that differentiate the Garmin Venu 3 from the Venu 3S. This comparison will cover essential aspects such as design, battery life, health monitoring, and price, giving you all the information you need to make an informed decision.

Design and Display

• Garmin Venu 3:
• The Venu 3 boasts a larger 1.4-inch AMOLED display with a resolution of 454 x 454 pixels, offering crisp visuals and an immersive experience. The watch has a 45mm case, which makes it more prominent on the wrist but also provides a larger screen area for data visualization.
• This model is slightly heavier, weighing around 50 grams, which is something to consider if you prefer a more substantial feel on your wrist.
• Garmin Venu 3S:
• The Venu 3S features a smaller 1.2-inch AMOLED display with a resolution of 390 x 390 pixels. While the display is slightly less sharp due to the reduced size, it’s still incredibly vibrant and easy to read.
• The 3S is designed with a 41mm case, making it more suitable for smaller wrists or users who prefer a more understated look. It’s also lighter at approximately 38 grams, ensuring comfort during prolonged wear.

Winner: The Garmin Venu 3 wins in terms of display size and resolution, making it the better choice if a larger screen is important to you. However, if you prefer a smaller and lighter watch, the Venu 3S is the way to go.

Battery Life

• Garmin Venu 3:
• The Venu 3 offers up to 10 days of battery life in smartwatch mode, which drops to about 20 hours when using GPS continuously. The battery life is commendable and ensures that you won’t need to recharge your watch too frequently.
• Garmin Venu 3S:
• The Venu 3S, due to its smaller size, offers slightly less battery life, with up to 8 days in smartwatch mode and around 18 hours with continuous GPS use. While still impressive, it doesn’t quite match the endurance of the Venu 3.

Winner: The Garmin Venu 3 takes the lead with its longer battery life, making it more suitable for those who need a watch that can last longer between charges.

Health Monitoring

Both the Venu 3 and Venu 3S are equipped with Garmin’s advanced health monitoring features. These include heart rate tracking, SpO2 monitoring, sleep analysis, stress tracking, and women’s health tracking, among others.

• Advanced Health Features:
• Both models come with Garmin’s new Body Battery Energy Monitoring, which gives you a real-time assessment of your energy levels throughout the day. Additionally, they offer features like the Health Snapshot, which allows you to record a 2-minute session to capture key stats like heart rate, heart rate variability, and blood oxygen levels.
• Sleep Tracking:
• Sleep tracking is equally robust on both devices, offering detailed insights into your sleep patterns, including stages (light, deep, REM), movement, and respiration rate.

Winner: It’s a tie in health monitoring, as both models offer identical features that are top-notch in the smartwatch market.

Smart Features

• Garmin Venu 3:
• The Venu 3 supports music storage and playback, contactless payments via Garmin Pay, and smart notifications. It also comes with a speaker and microphone, enabling users to take phone calls directly from the watch when connected to a smartphone.
• Garmin Venu 3S:
• The Venu 3S includes all the same smart features as the Venu 3, with no compromises despite its smaller size.

Winner: Another tie here, as both watches provide the full suite of Garmin’s smart features.

Price

• Garmin Venu 3:
• Typically, the Venu 3 is priced slightly higher due to its larger size and longer battery life. However, the difference is often marginal and might not be a deal-breaker for most buyers.
• Garmin Venu 3S:
• The Venu 3S, while similarly priced, can sometimes be found at a slightly lower cost, especially during sales or promotions.

Winner: The Garmin Venu 3S may take the lead if you can find it on sale, making it the better option for budget-conscious buyers.

3 Alternatives to Garmin Venu 3 and 3S That Might Fit Better to Your Needs

While the Garmin Venu 3 and Venu 3S are outstanding choices in the smartwatch market, they might not be the perfect match for everyone. Whether you're seeking superior sound quality, specialized fitness tracking, or a smartwatch that seamlessly integrates with your existing tech ecosystem, exploring alternative options can lead you to the ideal wearable. Here are three compelling alternatives that might cater to your specific needs better than the Venu 3 or Venu 3S.

1. Aether X: Superior Sound Quality and Avant-Garde Design

Aether X stands out not just as a smartwatch but as a statement piece that merges technology with high fashion. This limited-edition designer smartwatch, powered by TikTik, is for those who prioritize both functionality and aesthetics. If you're someone who values the sound quality of your wearable, Aether X could be the perfect choice for you.

Features and Benefits:

• Unmatched Sound Quality: Aether X is specifically designed to deliver an exceptional audio experience. Equipped with advanced sound engineering, it outperforms the average smartwatch in terms of music playback and podcast listening. Whether you're working out, commuting, or simply relaxing, Aether X ensures that your audio experience is immersive and high-fidelity.
• Voice-Activated Controls: The Aether X is also packed with cutting-edge voice-activated controls, allowing you to manage your smartwatch hands-free. This feature is particularly useful when you're on the move, enabling you to control your music, respond to messages, or check notifications without touching the screen.

2. Fitbit Sense 2: The Ultimate Tool for Stress Management

When it comes to holistic health tracking, the Fitbit Sense 2 is a formidable contender. While Garmin excels in offering a comprehensive fitness tracking experience, the Fitbit Sense 2 takes stress management and overall wellness monitoring to the next level. It’s a smartwatch designed for individuals who are as concerned about their mental well-being as they are about physical fitness.

Features and Benefits:

• Electrodermal Activity (EDA) Sensor: The EDA sensor is the standout feature of the Fitbit Sense 2, capable of detecting minute changes in the sweat level of your skin, which are linked to stress responses. This real-time monitoring allows you to understand how your body reacts to various situations, providing actionable insights to help manage stress.
• Advanced Sleep Tracking: Sleep is a critical component of wellness, and Fitbit Sense 2 excels in this area. It not only tracks your sleep stages (light, deep, and REM) but also provides a Sleep Score that gives you a comprehensive understanding of your sleep quality. The watch also offers insights and tips to improve your sleep patterns.
• Mindfulness and Relaxation Tools: Fitbit Sense 2 isn’t just about identifying stress; it’s also about managing it. The watch includes guided breathing exercises and mindfulness sessions that you can access at any time, helping you relax and regain balance during stressful moments.

3. Apple Watch Series 9: Best for iPhone Users and a Rich App Ecosystem

For users deeply embedded in the Apple ecosystem, the Apple Watch Series 9 represents the pinnacle of seamless integration, offering an experience that is closely tied to the functionality and design philosophy of iOS. While Garmin offers robust features across multiple platforms, the Apple Watch Series 9 is particularly well-suited for iPhone users who want a smartwatch that works effortlessly with their other Apple devices.

Features and Benefits:

• Seamless iOS Integration: The Apple Watch Series 9 integrates perfectly with your iPhone, offering features like instant messaging, call handling, and seamless access to Siri. It allows you to respond to texts, answer calls, and even control your smart home devices directly from your wrist without any compatibility issues.
• Extensive App Ecosystem: The Apple Watch boasts the most extensive app ecosystem available for smartwatches, with thousands of apps designed specifically for the watchOS. Whether you need apps for fitness, productivity, finance, or entertainment, the Apple Watch has you covered.
• Advanced Fitness Tracking: Although primarily known for its smart features, the Apple Watch Series 9 doesn’t lag in fitness tracking. It includes advanced metrics for workouts, heart rate monitoring, ECG, and blood oxygen level tracking, making it a versatile choice for fitness enthusiasts who also value smart functionalities.

Conclusion

Choosing between the Garmin Venu 3 and Venu 3S ultimately depends on your personal preferences and priorities. The Venu 3 is the best overall for those who prefer a larger display and longer battery life, while the Venu 3S caters to users who favor a smaller, lighter design. Both watches offer identical health monitoring features, making them excellent choices for anyone focused on fitness and wellness.

However, if neither of these models fully meets your needs, consider exploring alternatives like the Aether X for better sound quality, the Fitbit Sense 2 for superior stress management, or the Apple Watch Series 9 for seamless integration with iOS devices.

Whatever your choice, you’re sure to find a smartwatch that enhances your lifestyle, keeping you connected, healthy, and stylish.