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The best Suunto Comparison you need for 2021

Here we’re going to dive into a Suunto comparison. Suunto us a multisport smartwatch brand from Finland, known best for the Suunto 9 watch. Furthermore, Suunto watches are well-known for their durability and high-quality build, enduring battery life and custom battery modes. So if you’re into ultramarathons, a Suunto will be the first brand you want to research.

Product	Rating
Suunto 9 Baro GPS Sports Watch, Black	No ratings yet	Check Amazon Price
Suunto 7 GPS Sports Smart Watch, Black Lime	No ratings yet	Check Amazon Price
Suunto 5 Lightweight GPS Sports Watch, All Black		Check Amazon Price
Suunto Spartan Sport (Wrist - Hr), Black		Check Amazon Price
Suunto Traverse Alpha - Foliage	No ratings yet	Check Amazon Price

Introduction to the Suunto Comparison

You know you can rely on a Suunto watch for being accurate thanks to the brand’s history. To explain, the founder of Suunto, Tuomas Vohlan, patented his liquid-filled compass 80 years ago. Now, this was a revolution because it provided a new level of accuracy in readings compared to dry compasses. And the company has only done more and better things in the 80 years since. Somehow, they’re still not as well-recognised as Fitbit or Garmin, but athletes in the know respect their wearables.

So, before investing in a Suunto watch, there are some things to think about. Firstly it’s going to be the price. As we said, the Suunto 9 is the most popular, but it’s the most pricey and you might not require all the functions it has to offer.

Therefore, the Suunto 3 or 5 might strike a better balance between functionality and price (the former being cheaper) with standard fitness tracking features.

At SuperWatches we like to recommend models with built-in GPS, as indeed you get with the Suunto 9 and Suunto 5. Meaning, you can be free of your smartphone whilst you’re out running, say. Of course, if you enjoy listening to music as you go, none of these will suit you as they don’t offer onboard music storage.

Instead, you get a decent multisport feature. For example, your Suunto would track your activities in minute detail. Like laps, lap pace (in real-time), and your max and averages, including for sports like cycling and swimming.

Suunto 9 Baro

First in our Suunto Comparison is the Suunto 9 Baro is all but the same watch as the Suunto 9 but with 2 differences. Firstly, the obvious one, being the addition of a barometer. Secondly, it has sapphire crystal glass protecting the display, meaning it’s scratch-proof. And for these two additions, you’ll have to pay 20% on top of the Suunto 9 price, but we think it’s well worth it.

Additionally, the Suunto 9 Baro’s features will be loved by mountaineers and trail runners who like to know the altitude differences during their sessions. More, the Suunto 9 Baro has a storm alarm which will let you know when you might want to skip that particular day or seek shelter if you’re already out. However, the good news is that these additional features don’t negatively affect the battery life, which is key for anyone who likes outdoor adventures.

Essentially, the Suunto 9 Baro contains all the features the brand could throw at it. Without them, the Suunto 9 is a lighter watch by 9g and is rightly a cheaper option.

Considering what you pay, you certainly get a lot of watch! And a big one at that. Compared to even Garmins, known for their bulk, the Suunto 9 and 9 Baro are sturdy pieces.

Although the Suunto 9 doesn’t have the barometer, it does have some redeeming features. Namely, the wrist-based heart rate monitor, touch screen, water-resistance up to 100m, vibration motor and battery modes enabling up to 120 hours of use.

Finally, the onboard compass is precise, too with a combination of GPS, GLONASS, QZSS and GALILEO.

Suunto 7

Next in our Suunto Comparison, we’re going to discuss the Suunto 7. And it’s niche because it fits into a strange corner of the market; somewhere between expensive fitness tracker and casual running watch. In fact, it’s more expensive than the Apple Watch 6 and Garmin Venu.

Now, that’s not to say it’s not a good watch! Indeed, the Suunto 7 has a lot to offer; a bright display, smart features, accurate HRM and on-board GPS. Plus, it has offline maps and heatmaps for running and cycling.

As for controls, it has a touchscreen and push buttons, which some runners find really useful. Inside is Wear OS software, providing navigational shortcuts for further ease of use.

If we were to create a spectrum from the Fitbit Versa 3 to the Garmin Forerunner 945, the Suunto 7 sits marginally closer to the latter. However, the Versa does beat the Suunto when it comes to battery life. Specifically, you can expect about two days between charges, which isn’t fantastic compared to dedicated running watches and even its siblings.

Finally, the biggest drawback with the Suunto 7 is the price because despite being a competitor to Apple, we can’t see anyone opting for a Suunto 7 over the Apple Watch.

Read our full review, here.

Suunto 5

So, the next model in our Suunto Comparison is the Suunto 5. What’s good about the Suunto 5? Firstly, it’s lightweight and compact compared to the others. So if you’re not looking for a bulky device, this is a great choice.

Despite being lighter, it has all the features the Suunto 9 has to offer you, including the two-week battery life and battery modes, global positioning and a wrist-based HRM.

Although you can’t have everything for a lower price, naturally, you compromise on the screen quality, 218 x 218px resolution. Now, that might not actually be an issue for you unless you get a lot of notifications, as some have said the small font is hard to read during exercising. But, really, you should be focussed on your session anyway!

All in all, it’s a wonderful everyday tracker, which is what it was designed to be. After you finish running, the Suunto 5 will tell you some handy post-run data, which is far more in-depth than any Fitbit or Apple Watch can currently give you.

Read our full review, here.

Suunto Spartan Sport Wrist HR

Second to last of our Suunto Comparison, the Suunto Spartan Sport Wrist HR is what the Apple SE is to the Series 6; a slightly leaner version in terms of features. Namely, it has the same screen and build, but it doesn’t have the fancy GPS or battery modes. However, some think it looks better.

For what you pay, you get a capable multisport smartwatch that is sturdy and water-resistant to 100m, offering two weeks battery in ‘Time’ mode. And as you’re not getting the battery modes, you’ll get 40 hours of battery life in activity mode.

Suunto Traverse Alpha

The final model of our Suunto Comparison, the Suunto Traverse Alpha. Although it offers less resolution of 128 x 128 pixels, it can track hunting and fishing!

This mode is useful for providing information like moon phase, sunrise alert, shot detection, weather and can be used during nighttime. Specifically, Suunto thinks they’re catering to a neglected market.

Additional to these features, you get sapphire crystal glass, scratch-proof, a water-resistant stainless steel case, 100 hours battery life and a backlight that doubles up as a flashlight.

That’s it for now, we hope you enjoyed our Suunto comparison article! If you’re interested to see how the Suunto 9 stacks up against another market-leader, check out our review against the Garmin Fenix 6, here.

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Maygen is a multifaceted writer, proofreader and an experienced smartwatch industry writing and editing professional.

How to discover which Garmin is right for you in 2021

Knowing which Garmin is right for you won’t be a difficult task with our comparison. There’s something for every user and budget. If you’re an athlete or a more casual smartwatch user with fitness interests, there’s a Garmin that will suit you.

Newbies will want to opt for the Forerunner 30, whereas the more serious athletes should look to the Garmin Fenix 6.

Note, this list isn’t definitive as there are many fantastic Garmin wearables you could consider. So, treat this as an overview of the spectrum that’s on offer.

Ultimately, none of the watches we recommend here will let you down, but we recommend you go on to read the full reviews of the ones you like the sound of here.

Here’s a quick overview of the models we’ve reviewed here

Garmin fenix 6, Premium Multisport GPS Watch, Heat and Altitude Adjusted V02 Max, Pulse Ox Sensors and...

Garmin Forerunner 35 Watch, Black - International Version - US warranty

Garmin 010-02063-00 Forerunner 945, Premium GPS Running/Triathlon Smartwatch with Music, Black

Forerunner 45 GPS Watch - Black

Garmin Fenix 6

The Garmin Fenix 6 is a fantastic outdoor tracking device. In fact, some hail it as the king of multisport wearables. But, if you like this device and worry about the battery life, you can check out the Fenix 6 Pro Solar, which is truly the very top of the line.

The Fenix 6 knows how to track most outdoor activities with GPS and a heart rate monitor. The cool thing is, it works even underwater (offering a 10ATM rating).

GPS catches on quickly and remains reliable and accurate. More, the battery won’t die on you too quickly in GPS mode, offering up to 36 hours. Altogether, this watch is a robust and reliable offering for outdoor enthusiasts.

However, the price tag may unsteady you and if you’re not there, maybe check out the predecessor, the Fenix 5 Plus. If the cost is still a factor, don’t worry, keep reading.

See how the Garmin Fenix 6 stacks up against the Suunto 9, here.

Garmin Forerunner 35

Jumping way down the price range here with the Forerunner 35. This is a more budget range watch with some decent functionality.

Notably, the biggest differentiator between the 35 and others was the introduction of a heart rate monitor. Because with a lot of Garmin models, you’ll want to check if you need to purchase an additional HRM strap.

The Forerunner 35 is lightweight and sleek. Specifically designed for those who go on a daily walk or run. More, it offers GPS which will keep an eye on your distance, intervals and pace. As it has the Garmin Elevate wrist hrm, there’s no need to bring your phone with you.

Garmin Forerunner 945

The Forerunner 945 is considered to be the best for runners. Granted it doesn’t have as many features as the Fenix 6, but that’s more of a multisport watch. So, if you’re into marathons, consider this one.

The hrm and GPS are incredibly accurate. Plus, the colour maps and two weeks battery life (when GPS mode is switched off) is highly-praised by runners.

While this is a watch for runners, it can track more than just the one sport. In fact, it offers 30 built-in activities.

However, if you’re a casual runner or gym-goer, keep reading as this may not be the Garmin for you. Mostly, this will suit those who want to keep a close eye on their data. Read our Garmin Fenix 6 versus Forerunner 945 article, here.

Garmin Forerunner 45

Next is the Forerunner 45, the successor of the Forerunner 35, released just shy of 2 years ago. As such, there are a few nice wellness additions which make the 45 stand out.

Whilst you get everything you would expect; a hrm, sleep tracking and smart features, you also get the new Body Battery feature.

Now, this is a metric from Garmin that we saw initially on the Vivofit 4. Specifically, it monitors your heart rate variability, stress and general activity to calculate an overall energy level, so you know the optimum time to train, so you don’t overdo it.

Overall, the 45 is a capable and inexpensive watch.

Garmin vivoactive 4S, Smaller-Sized GPS Smartwatch, Features Music, Body Energy Monitoring, Animated Workouts,...

Garmin Instinct Solar, Solar-Powered Rugged Outdoor Smartwatch, Built-in Sports Apps and Health Monitoring,...

Garmin 010-01769-01 Vivoactive 3, GPS Smartwatch with Contactless Payments and Built-In Sports Apps, Black...

Garmin Forerunner 645 Music, Gps Running Watch With Contactless Payments, Wrist-Based Heart Rate And Music,...

Garmin Vivoactive 4S

Speaking of the Vivoactive, here’s the 4S. This has a much more modern design which is no larger than a typical smartwatch. Something unheard of when it comes to Garmin, traditionally known for their bulky wearables.

The Vivoactive 4S is only 40mm by 12.7mm and is a slimmer version of the 4.

More, it offers superb fitness tracking and built-in GPS that takes only a couple of seconds to find your location. Meaning you get an accurate record of your run or ride.

Finally, a nice touch is the sleep, and Sp02 tracking sensors which will keep an eye on you whilst you snooze at night.

Garmin Instinct Solar

The Instinct Solar grabs energy from the sun and has a potentially indefinite battery life thanks to the Power Glass screen. Even in GPS mode, good sunlight can ensure you can use this watch for days rather than hours.

Additionally, the Instinct range’s cool feature is the dual display that will show you information in a small window. If you’re using a Garmin, it’ll be because you’re interested in data and this feature is excellent for showing you exactly what you want at a glance.

However, that said, it is a bulky watch – not a surprise to many. So really this is a watch for outdoor enthusiasts more than wearing in the office, but that really is up to you. Luckily, the design means it’s incredibly robust and resistant to knocks from climbing and kayaking activities.

Read our Garmin Instinct Solar comparison, here.

Garmin Vivoactive 3

Next, the Vivoactive 3 is another data-oriented watch with excellent GPS and hrm, another great option for runners or those interested in their general activity levels.

The 3rd generation sees the addition of Garmin Pay and third-party apps like Accuweather and Uber. More, you can pick a watch face that suits you from the Connect IQ app.

Also, you get 15 sport mode options and 5ATM water-resistance. Meaning this is a great multisport option if you do a lot of different sports. It’ll give you a good 13 hours battery life which is more than enough to track your training sessions.

Finally, with a stainless steel bezel, it’s also a better-looking option compared to the Forerunners.

Read our full review, here.

Garmin Forerunner 645 Music

Finally, on the list, the Forerunner 645 Music is possibly the best value for money. Whilst it isn’t the only Garmin watch you can use for playing music, it’s the most convenient. As you can store around 500 songs on an offline playlist, so there’s no need to cart your phone around.

Again, a stainless steel bezel really makes the design of this model pop in comparison to clothes. With a decent multisport offering, you can wear it all the time, anywhere you like except if you’re into open water swimming or triathlons, which it doesn’t track.

All in all, this is a good-looking piece which would suit people who walk or cycle to work every day. Listen to music as you go, track your activity and no need to change your watch to suit your attire.

Have you found your perfect Garmin watch? Let us know in the comments.

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Maygen is a multifaceted writer, proofreader and an experienced smartwatch industry writing and editing professional.

Coros Apex Pro – Why this is a great watch for adventure lovers

Coros is underestimated when it comes to making great watches. Better known for their offerings aimed at distance and trail runners, mountain climbers and hikers of the US, over in Europe it’s a different story.

The Coros Apex Pro succeeds the Apex and sits at the top end of the premium sports watch market.

At a glance

If you’re used to Garmin, Suunto or Matrix, the Apex Pro is going to look more like a fashion watch. Being slimline and lightweight is a strange thing considering how much technology it’s packing inside. And once you’ve got it on, you’ll notice the silicone strap is soft, too. It has a heart rate monitor and oximeter in the belly, but you barely notice it on your skin where they’ve spared the weight in the use of titanium alloys, giving you a device weighing only 59g.

Overall, the feel is still one of high-quality, despite the weight. You get sapphire glass with an anodised body, and together you know this watch will last for years. Now, some might not be a fan of the bright green 22mm strap, but it also comes in black. Or, because the strap is interchangeable, you can put whatever you want on it.

Although the Apex Pro is aimed at triathletes and serious runners, it still comes with many sports functions (21 modes, to be exact). It’s best used with the Coros app, which is updated regularly. So your watch will improve with age, offering more functionality as the updates come in.

COROS APEX Pro Premium Multisport GPS Watch with Heart Rate Monitor, 40h Full GPS Battery, 24/7 Blood Oxygen...

Titanium bezel with high-grade fiber watch body with touch screen enabled Sapphire glass
Stunning battery life with 30 days of regular use, 40 hours in full GPS mode and 100 hours in...
24/7 blood oxygen monitoring with altitude acclimatization assistance, wrist-based SpO2 sensor,...

Fitness tracking

There is both real-time and post-training data for you to analyse including:

Barometric pressure
Altitude profile and levels
Distance covered
Heart rate
Calories burned
Stairs climbed
Steps

What’s more, you can configure your Apex Pro watch face to show the information you want.

Navigation

Here is where a lot of brands will let you down. Because they’ll give you all the data, you could want, but make menu navigation so difficult you can’t get to it through all the options. However, the Apex Pro doesn’t do this. Used in conjunction with the Apex app, you can see your data in a clear graphical depiction, including demonstrating what muscles you’ve worked.

Firstly, you navigate your watch through a three-button format. Secondly, you use your crown to scroll, adopting a push motion to lead you smoothly to the sub-menu you’ve selected. Thirdly, the top button wakes the backlight so you can have the watch in night mode, which is not a drain on the battery, either. Finally, the button at the bottom will lead you back up the menu you were using.

Screen

The LED screen is very clear. But, when you set the watch up, be mindful of what watch face you choose. Because colours and styles are abundant, you could easily overload the data you want to be presented and end up not being able to see any of it. So the advice is that less is more.

To add, the screen itself is a touchscreen. And it’s nice to have this and the buttons depending on the activity you’re doing and how easy it is to scroll or click. When it comes to any device with a crown bezel, it’s really common to knock it during an activity, thus waking it, and going through all sorts of menus when you didn’t mean to. As a result, the Apex Pro has an automatic lock that prevents this from happening; press down on the crown.

COROS APEX Pro Premium Multisport GPS Watch with Heart Rate Monitor, 40h Full GPS Battery, 24/7 Blood Oxygen...

Titanium bezel with high-grade fiber watch body with touch screen enabled Sapphire glass
Stunning battery life with 30 days of regular use, 40 hours in full GPS mode and 100 hours in...
24/7 blood oxygen monitoring with altitude acclimatization assistance, wrist-based SpO2 sensor,...

Battery life

The Apex Pro is a beast of a watch with 40 hours of use when you’re using every feature it has to offer. Including GPS mapping and all sensors firing. Which, when you remember it’s not a heavy watch, is an impressive feature given the capacity onboard.

If you don’t rely on the bells and whistles and turn them off, you can get up to 30 days between charges. Again, not something to be sniffed at. Moreover, it only takes around 2.5 hours to charge fully, so you don’t have to leave it overnight if you don’t want to.

If you want to preserve battery life, you can turn off specific features. What’s more, when in Running Mode you can use UltraMax GPS Mode. This ensures all sensors and algorithms used for accuracy are off and instead utilise the gyro, compass and barometer for an educated guess. Doing this will cost you the finite GPS details, but you’ll get a longer battery life out of it when you need it.

Heart Rate Monitor

No heart rate monitor on a fitness tracker is ever without some inaccuracies. But, the Apex Pro holds its own and when compared to other devices, will give you very similar readings. So the device is useful if you’re into knowing your heart rate zones rather than accurate reading of bpm or your resting heart rate.

As with the likes of Fitbit, you get a visual representation of your heart rate zones in a traffic light format.

Oximeter

Any watch catering to mountaineering and climbing should offer you a decent oximeter so you can monitor your SpO2 because this is vital in assessing your altitude acclimation. So when you enable this gesture on the Apex Pro, it’ll register your elevation above 2500 meters along with your SpO2. Then it compares this to your real-time heart rate to present you with the zones, so you know what’s safe.

GPS

GPS used to be sketchy at best when first introduced into sports watches. Now, Coros has an accurate and reliable offering, so long as you can get signal. Specifically, it might take a moment to get a signal. However, if it drops out, it’s quick to pick it back up again, alerting you with a gentle vibration.

Note: You do have to tell the Apex Pro when you’re starting some exercises as it won’t necessarily automatically register it. Don’t forget to hit ‘Go Now’.

Navigation

You’re able to preload your chosen route to the Apex Pro, using your app, which works with a good level of accuracy.

Overall

The Apex Pro is a nice alternative to bulky sports watches. It’s lightweight and slim but made of durable materials. Plus, you don’t have to worry about the battery running out.

The real-time information is a great feature for those who love detail, easily accessible thanks to the crown bezel.

You can also set the watch to tell you when to have a drink or snack. Something people often forget about.

The app isn’t overly complicated and offers some cool features like a heatmap of the muscles you’ve used.

Alternatives to consider:

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Maygen is a multifaceted writer, proofreader and an experienced smartwatch industry writing and editing professional.

Is the latest Garmin Forerunner 745 the impressive sports watch it aims to be?

Introduction

The Garmin Forerunner 745 succeeds the Garmin 735XT and is the watch for serious athletes lacking the budget for a Garmin Forerunner 945.

Garmin’s aim with the Forerunner 745 was to pack in all the sports features it could get into a smaller case than on the 735XT. Granted, it has more sensors such as a pulse oximeter and offers smart features such as onboard storage for music and contactless payments.

Garmin Forerunner 745, GPS Running Watch, Detailed Training Stats and On-Device Workouts, Essential Smartwatch...

swim, bike, run — do it all with a smartwatch that uses multiple satellite systems to accurately...
switch up your workout routine whenever you like with preloaded activity profiles for running,...
receive on-device run and cycling daily workout suggestions based on your current training load and...

As with its sibling devices, you get a device that’s accurate for those into running, swimming, cycling and some indoor activities such as rowing. What you now get with the Forerunner 745 is an abundance of metrics before and after your session. Plus, support for additional apps (found in the Connect IQ store) and sensors. With the addition of payments and music, it raises itself as a better smartwatch than others in the range. More, it pairs with any Android or iPhone.

All in all, the Forerunner 745 is a competent watch. Unfortunately, it could do with better battery life for the price, or, vice versa, it could be cheaper to compensate.

Released in September of 2020 and priced at $587.57 it’s around twice the price of the 735XT.

Design

It comes with a 22mm silicon interchangeable wristband and a waterproof rating of 5ATM, meaning you can shower or swim in it.

For those that want colour options, you get whitestone, magma red, black and neo tropic.

As you’ve come to love about Garmin, it has five physical buttons, a 1.2-inch display of 240 x 240 pixels, meaning it’s the same dimensions as the Forerunner 245, but not the Venu.

Garmin Forerunner 745, GPS Running Watch, Detailed Training Stats and On-Device Workouts, Essential Smartwatch...

Swim, bike, run — do it all with a smartwatch that uses multiple satellite systems to accurately...
Switch up your workout routine whenever you like with preloaded activity profiles for running,...
Receive on-device run and cycling daily workout suggestions based on your current training load and...

Ultimately, you won’t see any drastic changes to the traditional Garmin design. And why should they when the previous versions work so well?

Sensors and Metrics

Man using a heart rate strap with his Garmin

Firstly, you get GPS, GLONASS and Galileo to reliably track your outdoor adventures. More, you can upload a route before you head off, using Garmin’s native route finder, Koomoot or Strava. Also, you can use TracBack, a navigation feature to direct yourself home.

Secondly, the Garmin Elevate heart rate monitor is present. And on the back is ANT + and Bluetooth connectivity. These help you to pair other devices like the Varia or Garmin’s HRM straps. Even more still, there’s the addition on the SpO2 sensor, which is becoming standard on Garmin watches.

As for sports, you can track runs using the new running mode. Plus, indoor and outdoor cycling, open and pool swimming and triathlons. There are more, too. Skiing, yoga and hiking, to name some.

The additional sensors proving better and more accurate data make the Forerunner 745 feel like the upgrade from the 735XT. For example, you’ll see Load, Load Focus, Training Status; meaning you’ll know if you’ve got the balance right during your session. It’s not done yet, though. Also, you get altitude and heat acclimation data which tells you how well your body is adjusting to those demands from the terrain and other conditions. After a heavy session, it’ll calculate how long to rest to sufficiently recover. Once you have, it’ll let you know.

Suggested Workouts

Another important addition to the software is Suggested Workouts. Predominantly for cyclists and runners and serves up workouts that suit your training.

This works by scrolling through from the watch face to your widgets. Your suggestions will be informed by what is beneficial to your training. Furthermore, you can opt for the workout during a session, and you’ll be told if you’ve hit or fallen short of your goal pace or distance.

Smart Features

On the whole, the smartwatch experience is decent. You get notifications for Android and iPhone, but it works better for the former.

Garmin Pay is present.

The app store still isn’t groundbreaking, but there’s the dedicated Garmin Connect IQ app, where your data lives. Also, you can do things like changing your watch face and select widgets from here.

Similar to the Apple Watch, the Forerunner 745 has a new safety feature, like fall detection. But, you need to have your phone closeby for it to work.

Check out our comparison of Apple Watches to see if you think the SOS and fall detection feature is what you need.

Battery life

In terms of the battery life, the Forerunner 745 will give you a week in smartwatch mode compared to only 6 hours in GPS mode if you’re listening to music. However, without music, you can get 16 hours with GPS on. This is not much different from any other of the Forerunner series.

Compare it to the Fenix 6, though, and you’re going to miss out on the power management mode. Considering you can get better battery life for less, it’s certainly something Garmin will want to address.

Should I buy a Garmin Forerunner 745?

If you want in-depth training data including recovery advice, then the Forerunner 745 is for you. Also, if you have a 735XT and want an upgrade, go for it, you won’t regret it; the improvements are worthwhile. Garmin is known for accurate data so runners, swimmers and cyclists can rely on accurate data.

However, if you’re looking for something with long battery life, you can definitely find a watch with better stamina for less money. So, if you can afford it, the Forerunner 945 will suit you better.

Garmin Forerunner 745, GPS Running Watch, Detailed Training Stats and On-Device Workouts, Essential Smartwatch...

Swim, bike, run — do it all with a smartwatch that uses multiple satellite systems to accurately...
Switch up your workout routine whenever you like with preloaded activity profiles for running,...
Receive on-device run and cycling daily workout suggestions based on your current training load and...

If you enjoy our content, follow us on social media for our latest post updates

Maygen is a multifaceted writer, proofreader and an experienced smartwatch industry writing and editing professional.

Is the Suunto Ambit 3 Peak an Adventurers Best Friend?

Although the Suunto Ambit 3 Peak is no longer in production it is still an awesome outdoor GPS watch with a hardcore battery life.

Design

The Suunto Ambit 3 Peak is not a subtle watch. Because of this, the size is something you should think about, depending on the sports you participate in. For example, a classic rock climbers’ issue is often being unable to use a GPS device whilst climbing. But thanks to the smoothness of the case and external button for ease of use, the Suunto Ambit 3 takes away this trouble. There are no worries about losing the watch with the rigidity of the band, keeping the case secure to your wrist.

Suunto Ambit3 Peak HR Monitor Running GPS Unit, Black

Suunto Ambit3 peak delivers stable and accurate altitude and weather information with full...
Includes built in altimeter, barometer, compass and GPS with 100 meter water resistance
One of the most competitive battery hours in the market, 200 hours with 1 minute accuracy. Case...

Performance

The Ambit 3 is different from Garmin watches because of heart rate sensors. In fact, the Ambit 3 doesn’t have one. But you can get the Ambit 3 Peak HR version) or a separate heart rate strap. However, what you do get is a temperature sensor and altitude sensor instead – the former of which cannot currently be found on an Apple or Garmin.

Features

OK, this isn’t jam-packed with features, granted. Notably, you’ll find the Forerunner 945 will offer you more. Depending on how you look at it, the Ambit 3’s compromising nature might hold some appeal. Because it deliberately lacks things that you don’t necessarily need.

The Suunto Ambit 3 is for those who like outdoor sports and caters to those requirements only. For example, it has GPS, barometer, accelerometer and will tell you your speed, time, distance, laps and performance. Additionally, your smartphone notifications are also delivered on your wrist. So, yes, the Ambit can be seen as basic, or it can be seen as free from frills.

So if you’re looking for bells and whistles, head over to our review of the Suunto Core.

As the name suggests, the Ambit 3 Peak is particularly useful to people into mountaineering.

Use

Suunto is the king of rugged, wrist-mounted devices. Plus, their meticulous attention to detail means users have a very easy ride. Namely because of the inclusion of buttons on the side. And the Suunto Ambit 3 holds this feature, too. Another thing Suunto does well is triaging tasks. So your data will seamlessly sync from your watch, to app to desktop (when you sync it).

Again, only the necessities are on board the Suunto Ambit 3; start, stop, record, adjust the time, toggle between sports and navigate preloaded routes. Apart from that, everything will require setting up or customising, which you can do through the Suunto MovesCount site and app. Both are user-friendly and reliable.

You are able to configure the SuuntoAmbit 3 so it shows as much detail as you desire. Anything after that, you’ll have to create a dedicated sports mode for yourself. For example, you can set up a running mode which will show you distance per mile. Or, your cycling mode can show you speed in mph, distance and elapsed time. Similarly, swimming mode shows strokes per minute, elapsed time and distance.

Essentially, the customisation is unlimited with Suunto’s app as you have access to thousands of other users’ custom developments.

To reiterate again, the simplicity is the beautiful thing about this device. The Ambit is a remarkable watch, because it’s basic and you can truly make it your own.

Battery Life

The battery life of a GPS watch is always hard to test. Namely because users have different uses and the battery life of a device is open to many variables. For example, how long it’s in GPS mode, how the data is synchronized, to what device and reliance on smart notifications. So, what we can go on is anecdotal from user experience and the what the brand promises. Suunto claims the Ambit 3 will give you an astonishing 200 hours with GPS turned on. If not turned on, you’ll easily get over a week in smartwatch mode.

Accuracy

When it comes to accuracy, the Suunto Ambit 3 is sensational. Largely down to the fact Suunto incorporates a motion sensor which monitors the GPS data. How does that improve accuracy? Your wrist-mounted accelerometer will catch small errors in your running or walking rhythm. Then, when it senses these tiny irregularities, it will ignore the GPS location of that specific point and will instead, measure the distance and rate and come up with a calculation that makes more sense.

Ease of Set-Up

The Suunto Ambit 3 isn’t perfect but it does belong in the list of top-rated GPS watches. It’s easy to set up but it’ll take you some time. And once you do, you’ll find your device is tailored to your exact requirements and will be a faithful companion in your outdoor adventures. So, if you want something that is good to go straight out the box, this isn’t it. But if you’re a serious athlete with a keen interest in your own data, this is going to be great for you.

Value for money

Because the Suunto Ambit 3 is so highly customisable, it’s really great value for money. Suunto is a reputable brand, committed to continual software updates. So whilst it’s not cheap, it’s still not as expensive as others in the Suunto catalogue.

Conclusion

Suunto knows that athletes have a tolerance for bulky and rugged devices. However, with bulk comes a big screen and this is necessary for anyone on the go who only gets a split second to check their information. If you’re a swimmer, runner, hiker, or even a skier, you’ll never actively choose to have a heavy watch on your wrist. Luckily, Suunto (and granted, most Garmin) watches offer you a suitable solution that will last for years.

In conclusion, it seems that despite the growing desire of brands to stuff as much technology into sports watches as they possibly can, Suunto has found a perfect balance. The Suunto Ambit 3 is a demonstration of knowing when enough is enough.

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Maygen is a multifaceted writer, proofreader and an experienced smartwatch industry writing and editing professional.

The Garmin Vivoactive 4 – A Great Fitness Tracker

Overview

The Garmin Vivoactive 4 is the latest in the brand’s mid-range offering. Sure, it sits beneath the stylish Garmin Venu and triathlete-focussed Fenix 6, but that’s because it’s geared toward semi-serious fitness enthusiasts.

It offers decent fitness tracking and smartwatch features inside a design that resembles the latter more than the former. But, ultimately, it’s a great middle-ground piece for those who are serious about training but don’t want to change their watch to go back to the office after a session.

Now, the downside is that the screen is a little fiddly to use if you get it wet; which may put some outdoor-types off. Plus, Garmin’s app ecosystem leaves a little to be desired. So it has the good looks, but it doesn’t stand up against the likes of the new Apple Watch 6, for example.

Garmin vivoactive 4, GPS Smartwatch, Features Music, Body Energy Monitoring, Animated Workouts, Pulse Ox...

Keeps track of your energy levels, Pulse Ox (this is not a medical device and is not intended for...
Easily download songs to your watch, including playlists from Spotify, Amazon music or Deezer (may...
Record all the ways to move with more than 20 preloaded GPS and indoor sports apps, including yoga,...

Design

When switched off, you’d be forgiven for thinking the Garmin Vivioactive 4 was a Venu. Which isn’t a criticism, as it has a rounded metallic face which gives it a premium look. Unlike its chunky sibling, the Fenix 6.

The Garmin Vivoactive 4 is tough and usable. With options of a 40mm or 45mm case and many different straps to choose from, it’s easily customisable to suit your environment.

Also, it’s 5ATM water-resistant and has Gorilla Glass 3 on its Chroma screen. Meaning, it’ll stay with you in some underwater adventures and will survive the odd bump.

Inside

Inside the Garmin Vivoactive 4 are some pleasant surprises. For one, it comes with built-in storage for 500 songs. Plus the UI has had an update to make navigation easier using the touchscreen.

Furthermore, the UI changes are all positive. As with previous Vivo watches, you can scroll up and down your customised screens and get instant access to data such as your health stats, workout information, music controls and any other apps you have installed.

If you’re into hybrid watches you should know that, sadly, the Garmin IQ store is a little lacking, if any negatives need to be pointed out in the name of fairness. Meaning, outside of the dedicated Garmin Connect app, the app library has a limited offering, especially considering non-fitness apps. Even those apps that do work can feel a bit laggy compared to Fitbit apps, say; Nevermind the experience you get with an Apple Watch. If notifications and music controls are enough for you, then this is still a great shout.

Tracking

Fortunately, the Garmin Vivoactive 4 has great fitness tracking capability and that makes up for any smart feature shortcomings.

Of course, you get all the standard features that you would expect on a fitness tracker which includes accurate GPS and multiple activity tracking from jogging to yoga and skiing.

As for the more basic tracking, the Garmin Vivoactive 4 effortlessly matches the standard you should expect from a Garmin watch. Subsequently, the heart rate monitoring offers a decent breakdown of your intensity minutes during your workout.

Activities

What’s useful is the new guided workout animations for things like free weights and yoga. Similar to Fitbit, you get a graphical guide showing you how to do certain exercises. To access this, simply download it to the Connect app.

Extra Metrics and Sensors

Following this, there are some additional metrics that have been added by Garmin. Particularly, the ability to see your estimated sweat loss, pulse OX and respiration rate.

Firstly, when they say estimated sweat loss, it’s actually really hard to measure, but it does a decent job. You get this alongside a host of post-workout statistics, including a gauge of how well you performed, your heart rate zones and a recommendation for recovery times.

Secondly, the pulse OX sensor is a key update for the health-conscious out there. This will tell you how much oxygen is in your blood, which is a great indicator of your overall current health. And experiencing a significant drop can indicate a problem. Now, this is common on Fitbit models nowadays so it’s not only special to the Vivoactive range.

Finally, respiration tracking goes great with the guided breathing exercises. Liken to the Fitbit Sense, the Garmin Vivoactive 4 is interested in your stress levels and wellbeing and judges this based on your elevated heart rate. On the whole, this feature works pretty well and provides better data than the Fitbit can.

Battery life

The Garmin Vivoactive 4 claims to offer up to 8 days between charges and reports from users say this is true to life. However, to achieve this, you need to limit the use of the pulse OX tracking.

Specifically, you can happily track a 30 – 45 minute work out whilst listening to music and check your health metrics a few times – every day, for those 8 days.

As you’d expect, using the pulse OX and GPS will zap the battery down to maybe 3-5 days. In fact, that’s actually really good considering.

Garmin vivoactive 4S, Smaller-Sized GPS Smartwatch, Features Music, Body Energy Monitoring, Animated Workouts,...

Keeps track of your energy levels, Pulse Ox (this is not a medical device and is not intended for...
Easily download songs to your watch, including playlists from Spotify, Amazon music or Deezer (may...
Record all the ways to move with more than 20 preloaded GPS and indoor sports apps, including yoga,...

Should I buy the Garmin Vivoactive 4?

The Garmin Vivoactive 4 is not a cheap watch; sitting comfortably in the mid-range level. However, if you’re after a decent fitness tracker with in-depth metrics, a few smart features and a sleek design to boot, then it’s a solid choice.

The GPS is accurate and it serves runners and outdoor enthusiasts very well.

If a downside has to be pointed out, its that the app library is not a patch on competitors. So more casual users who are seeking a smartwatch with fitness features will be disappointed. If you’re such a user, head to our review of the Fitbit Versa 3 or Apple Watch SE, both in a similar price range.

Final say

The Garmin Vivoactive 4 is not a revolution from the Vivoactive 3 but it’s still a solid mid-range fitness tracker with smart features.

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Maygen is a multifaceted writer, proofreader and an experienced smartwatch industry writing and editing professional.

Maygen

Introduction to the Suunto Comparison

Suunto 9 Baro

Suunto 7

Suunto 5

Suunto Spartan Sport Wrist HR

Suunto Traverse Alpha

Here’s a quick overview of the models we’ve reviewed here

Garmin Fenix 6

Garmin Forerunner 35

Garmin Forerunner 945

Garmin Forerunner 45

Garmin Vivoactive 4S

Garmin Instinct Solar

Garmin Vivoactive 3

Garmin Forerunner 645 Music

At a glance

Fitness tracking

Navigation

Screen

Battery life

Heart Rate Monitor

Oximeter

GPS

Navigation

Overall

Introduction

Design

Sensors and Metrics

Suggested Workouts

Smart Features

Battery life

Should I buy a Garmin Forerunner 745?

Design

Performance

Features

Use

Battery Life

Accuracy

Ease of Set-Up

Value for money

Conclusion

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Overview

Design

Inside

Tracking

Activities

Extra Metrics and Sensors

Battery life

Should I buy the Garmin Vivoactive 4?

Final say

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