Garmin Fenix 3 review

For an all-action outdoors sportswatch, the Fenix 3 is the best out there at the moment - Garmin has combined the choicest cuts of its earlier efforts to deliver a device that excels in most areas. Just be aware that a heart rate strap is required to get the most out of the running and exercise analysis tools, otherwise you'll have to be your own coach - unless you go for something like the Fenix 3 Sapphire HR, which costs a lot more.

We liked

There was plenty to like: the fast and accurate tracking, the wide variety of modes, the lengthy list of useful features, the intelligent interface and the addition of smartphone notifications. It's comfortable to wear and offers a strong battery life, and the app's good too.

We disliked

Some more analysis and coaching wouldn't go amiss but could be easily added in a future software update, while the screen isn't the most dazzling. Sleep tracking is pretty useless and it's unlikely many will make use of it.

All in all, it's another impressive watch from Garmin. The high price will put off casual users who want to record their steps and sleep, but for serious athletes trail running in the rain or building up to their next triathlon it's worth every penny you have to fork out. The new champion of sportswatches.

Verdict

The Garmin Fenix 3 is a fantastic smartwatch, but there is a cost attached to this - and if you really want the device to work to you then you have to pay out even more for the costly heart rate strap.

I would have liked the software to go deeper into my data but what is on offer is impressive. This is definitely a superlative device for those who are looking to improve their fitness.