Comparing Fenix 5 and Fenix 3
Garmin, a well-known and respected brand in the world of wearables, has always strived to offer their customers high-quality, reliable, and advanced devices. Two of their popular products, the Fenix 3 and Fenix 5, offer a wide range of features and benefits for individuals with active lifestyles. Choosing the right watch is crucial as it helps you track your progress, monitor your health, and stay connected with the world. In this article, you will learn about the differences between the Garmin Fenix 3 and Fenix 5, their design, functionality, user interface, price, and more to help you make an informed decision.
Established in 1989, Garmin has built a strong reputation for itself as one of the leading manufacturers of GPS navigation and wearable technology. With a wide range of products catering to various needs and interests, their smartwatches and fitness trackers have become essential tools for fitness enthusiasts and athletes alike. This article focuses on a detailed comparison of the Garmin Fenix 3 and Fenix 5 so that you can choose the best device for your needs.
Design and Build
Garmin Fenix 3
The Garmin Fenix 3 features a durable build with a stainless steel bezel, fiber-reinforced polymer case, and a scratch-resistant sapphire glass display. The 1.2-inch Chroma LED display has a resolution of 218 x 218 pixels. The watch weighs 82 grams, making it relatively lightweight for a fitness tracker of its caliber.
Garmin Fenix 5
Released two years after the Fenix 3, the Garmin Fenix 5 comes with a stainless steel bezel, fiber-reinforced polymer case, and a chemically strengthened glass display. The watch sports a slightly higher resolution of 240 x 240 pixels on its 1.2-inch color display with touchscreen capabilities. The Fenix 5 weighs 85 grams, making it only slightly heavier than its predecessor.
Comparison of Design and Build Quality
Both Garmin Fenix 3 and Fenix 5 offer sturdy and durable designs, but the Fenix 5 comes with a slightly higher resolution screen equipped with touchscreen capabilities. The weight difference is minimal, and both watches are designed to withstand challenging conditions, suitable for adventurers and athletes.
Features and Functionality
Garmin Fenix 3
The Fenix 3 operating system allows for tracking active minutes, steps, and sleep, along with heart rate monitoring (when paired with a compatible heart rate monitor), as well as distance, cycling, and swimming. With a battery life ranging from 50 hours in GPS mode to up to 6 weeks in watch mode, the watch offers impressive longevity. The watch is compatible with Android, iOS, and features Bluetooth and Wi-Fi capabilities.
Garmin Fenix 5
With a similar operating system, the Fenix 5 tracks all the same metrics as the Fenix 3 but adds oxygen tracking and heart rate tracking directly through the watch. The Fenix 5 battery life is 2 weeks in smartwatch mode, offering users plenty of time between charges. The device is compatible with Android, iOS, and Windows phones and offers Bluetooth and Wi-Fi connectivity.
Comparison of Features and Performance
Both devices are feature-rich, but the Fenix 5 has an edge in terms of tracking capabilities, providing oxygen tracking and built-in heart rate monitoring. The Fenix 3 offers a longer battery life in GPS mode, while the Fenix 5 has a more extended smartwatch mode battery life, providing tailored advantages to different use cases.
User Interface and User Experience
Garmin Fenix 3
The Garmin Fenix 3 features a 1.2-inch Chroma LED screen that offers clear reading both in bright sunlight as well as indoors, interacting with the device through its physical buttons. The watch offers customizable data screens and apps through Garmin’s Connect IQ store. Fenix 3 is compatible with Android and iOS smartphones and offers phone, email, and text alerts.
Garmin Fenix 5
Equipped with a 1.2-inch touch screen, navigating through the Fenix 5 is more efficient and interactive. The watch has customizable displays, apps, and widgets through Garmin’s Connect IQ store. Compatibility with Android, iOS, and Windows smartphones offers phone, email, and text alerts.
Comparison of User Interface and User Experience
While both devices offer customizable features, the Fenix 5 has an advantage with its touchscreen, providing more interaction options. The Fenix 5's compatibility with Windows smartphones offers broader connectivity, but overall, the user experience for both watches is similar.
Price and Value
Garmin Fenix 3
With a price tag of $500, the Garmin Fenix 3 offers a great value for adventurers and athletes looking for a durable watch packed with features.
Garmin Fenix 5
At a slightly higher price of $599.99, the Garmin Fenix 5 provides added functionality, improved interface, and broader compatibility, offering users a more advanced fitness tracking experience.
Comparison of Price and Value
Both devices offer excellent value for their respective prices. The Fenix 3 is a more budget-friendly option while offering a wide range of features. However, for those looking for advanced features and interface, the slightly higher price of the Fenix 5 may be justified.
Conclusion
In summary, both Garmin Fenix 3 and Fenix 5 are excellent fitness tracking watches catering to various needs and preferences. The Fenix 3 is a reliable and more affordable option with an impressive battery life, while the Fenix 5 offers added functionalities, improved interface, and broader compatibility.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the main difference between Garmin Fenix 3 and Fenix 5?
The main difference between the two devices is the built-in heart rate monitoring and oxygen tracking in the Fenix 5, as well as its touchscreen interface.
Is the Fenix 5 worth the extra cost?
If built-in heart rate monitoring, oxygen tracking, and a touchscreen interface are essential features for you, the Fenix 5 may be worth the extra cost.
Are both Garmin Fenix 3 and Fenix 5 waterproof?
Yes, both devices have a water resistance rating of 10 ATM, making them suitable for swimming and other water activities.
Which one has a better battery life, Fenix 3 or Fenix 5?
Fenix 3 has a longer battery life in GPS mode (50 hours), while Fenix 5 has a longer battery life in smartwatch mode (2 weeks).
Is the Garmin Fenix 5 compatible with Windows phones?
Yes, unlike the Fenix 3, the Garmin Fenix 5 is compatible with Windows smartphones.
