• Skip to primary navigation
  • Skip to main content
  • Reviews
  • Guides
  • Brands
  • Comparisons
Superwatches - Smartwatches for smart healthy people

SuperWatches

Super Smartwatches and Wearables

  • News
  • About Us

diving watches

Suunto vs Garmin

Choosing a watch - garmin/suunto

Which Brand of SmartWatch is Right for You?

Whether you’re in the market for an upgrade or have decided now is the time for your first GPS watch, the market can be daunting. There are some great brands with a variety of features and significant price differences. We’re going to look at two of the best names; Suunto and Garmin.

If you already have a watch, there’s a chance you already know some of the features that you require. If, however, this is your first purchase, don’t be tempted to buy the one someone suggests to you. Because it may not have all the features you are looking for.

Two of the more popular brands of GPS watch that are available to buy now are Suunto and Garmin. The truth is both make great running watches, Garmin devices are usaully slightly more expensive but it also depends on the model you choose. So let’s take a look.

So Who is Garmin?

Based in Olathe, Kansas and founded in 1989, Garmin Ltd is an American company who originally began life as Pronav. They have a background in specialising in GPS technology for a variety of applications from aviation to marine, automobile to outdoor activities. More recently, they moved into activity trackers following the development of wearable technology.

Reduced Price
Garmin 010-02064-00 Instinct, Rugged Outdoor Watch with GPS, Features Glonass and Galileo, Heart Rate...
Garmin 010-02064-00 Instinct, Rugged Outdoor Watch with GPS, Features Glonass and Galileo, Heart Rate...
  • Rugged GPS watch built to withstand the toughest environments
  • Constructed to U.S. Military standard 810G for thermal, shock and water resistance (rated to 100...
  • Built in 3 axis compass and barometric altimeter, plus multiple global navigation satellite systems...
Check Amazon Price

Over the years, Garmin has grown from the small company – whose first customer was the US Army – to where they are today.  Now, they sell their products on a global scale and hold a variety of patents. 

Garmin sells a range of incredibly popular vehicle trackers as well as walking and diving GPS. They also count the Vivo series of fitness trackers in their range with popular models including Vivofit, Vivosmart and the Vivoactive.

Who is Suunto?

F ounded in 1936, Suunto Oy is a Finnish company with its headquarters in Vantaa, Finland. The company name is derived from the Finnish word “Suunto” which means ‘direction’.

The company has expanded over the years and now employs over 300 people all over the world with its products selling in over 100 countries.

In addition to compasses, the company produce diving watches, computers and instruments, sports watches and other lifestyle watches.

Review a list of the most popular Suunto watches on Amazon.

Reduced Price
Suunto 3 Fitness Tracker Sports Watch, Slate Grey
Suunto 3 Fitness Tracker Sports Watch, Slate Grey
  • Suunto 3: This fitness tracker sports watch accurately tracks steps, exercise, stress, and recovery;...
  • A Life In Balance: This fitness watch delivers a holistic view of your daily activity, including...
  • Get Connected: Connect to your favorite sports apps and services from the Suunto app to get more...
Check Amazon Price

How to choose a GPS watch for running

It’s essential to remember both Suunto and Garmin are well known for very high-quality tracker watches.  So, whichever brand you pick, you can’t go wrong. Of course, both brands offer different features. Ultimately, what you should be looking at when choosing a GPS watch for running are the features. Look at things like display, tracking modes and activities, and the app you need to use it. There are models to suit different needs and budgets from each brand. 

Ask yourself, do you want:

  • A basic watch that just tracks races and training?
  • A multi-sport watch that will manage a varied selection of sport?
  • A watch that constantly tracks everything you do?

These questions start your search for the right tracker. If you already have a watch and there are features you don’t particularly like, maybe you might want to change brands. If you love what you have and want an upgrade, it might be better to stick with what you know.

Feature comparison

Most basic GPS watches include the same data-tracking features. For example, pace, distance, calorie tracking and likely heart rate. However,  some cheaper GPS watches do not have a HRM. They will, however, differ in terms of the hardware, alerts, training tools and data management.

To compare Suunto and Garmin, we will break the features down and look at them individually. 

Tracking and display

Both brands offer watches that display customisable real-time data. For example, pace, distance, time, calories burnt and heart rate. Also, at the touch of a button, they both offer summary information; average pace, elevation gain and stride count. This can be valuable information for any runner in training.

In terms of tracking and display, there is little difference between the brands. However, in terms of digital customisation, there is one big one. The Fenix 5X Plus from Garmin allows the user to change the data screen during a workout. All the models available from Suunto require any custom changes to be made through the Movescount app.

The GPS tracking from both models is superb.

  • The Garmin Fenix 5X Plus with its handy mid-workout data changing is slightly more workout friendly.

Battery Life

The Suunto 9 is rather clever when it comes to battery life. This model features three battery modes and tells you how much battery is left. If the watch notices your battery is running out, it will suggest you switch to a different mode to prolong battery life. Depending on the mode, users get between 25 to 120 hours from the battery.

Both the Forerunner 935/945 and the Fenix 5 from Garmin have various battery mode settings and a battery life ranging from 24 hours in GPS mode to 60 hours in the UltraTrac battery saver mode. This mode shuts off GPS periodically and relies on an accelerometer to calculate distance and speed.

  • Suunto 9 offers the better battery life

Mapping and navigation

When it comes to new routes, whether you know the area or not, both brands provide superb navigational features. The Fenix series from Garmin offers colour topographic mapping capabilities. However, due to the size of the screen, this may not be ideal for many users.

All watches from Suunto offer GPS downloads that display a “breadcrumb” map and the direction you need to follow.

Of course, Suunto is also known for barometric and altimeter functions, which are great for off-trail running.

  • While both brands offer very similar features, the Suunto watches have the edge with their added altimeter and barometric functions and, of course, map size. 
Reduced Price
Garmin vívoactive 3, GPS Smartwatch Contactless Payments Built-In Sports Apps, Black/Slate
Garmin vívoactive 3, GPS Smartwatch Contactless Payments Built-In Sports Apps, Black/Slate
  • Garmin Pay contact less payment solution lets you pay for purchases with your watch (available for...
  • Personalize your watch with thousands of free watch faces, apps and widgets from our Connect IQ...
  • More than 15 pre loaded GPS and indoor sports apps, including yoga, running, swimming and more; Lens...
Check Amazon Price

Heart rate monitoring

The higher-end watches from both brands include optical heart rate or wrist-based monitoring.

Models like the Ambit 3 Peak from Suunto have an optional heart rate belt instead. The type of monitor you prefer is very much down to personal choice. 

In addition to monitoring heart rate, the Garmin Fenix 5 also tracks wellness on a 24/7 basis. This includes your sleep metrics, which some users might find handy.

  • If a heart rate belt is for you, then you will probably prefer the Ambit 3 Peak
  • If you want to track everything, then the Fenix 5 from Garmin is the watch for you.

Suunto and Garmin Apps and Data Management

If you are changing brands, this is where you will notice the most difference.

Suunto did use Movescount until very recently. However, the Suunto app is now live. You can transfer your data, though. All of the watches have the ability to analyse your data and synchronise, upload photos and workout descriptions and send notifications from your phone to your watch. The Spartan collection, Suunto 3 Fitness and Suunto 9 also allow for 24/7 synchronisation of data. This includes things like calories burnt, steps and route planning.

All Garmin models use Connect – this offers similar features to Movescount and the ability to build courses, create workouts and even challenge your friends to competitions.

  • There is very little to choose between both brands. Although, it is worth remembering that with the move from Movescount to the Suunto app coming up, there may be new ways of doing things that you will need to learn.
Preview
Suunto Core All Black Military Men's Outdoor Sports Watch - SS014279010
Suunto 7 GPS Sports Smart Watch, Black
Garmin Forerunner 235, GPS Running Watch, Black/Gray
Garmin Instinct Solar (Tidal Blue) Power Bundle | +PlayBetter 2200mAh Portable Charger & HD Screen Protectors...
Title
Suunto Core All Black Military Men's Outdoor Sports Watch - SS014279010
Suunto 7 GPS Sports Smart Watch, Black
Garmin Forerunner 235, GPS Running Watch, Black/Gray
Garmin Instinct Solar (Tidal Blue) Power Bundle | +PlayBetter 2200mAh Portable Charger & HD Screen Protectors...
Ratings
-
-
-
Price/Performance
Price Details
Check Amazon Price
Check Amazon Price
Check Amazon Price
Check Amazon Price
Preview
Suunto Core All Black Military Men's Outdoor Sports Watch - SS014279010
Title
Suunto Core All Black Military Men's Outdoor Sports Watch - SS014279010
Ratings
-
Price/Performance
Price Details
Check Amazon Price
Preview
Suunto 7 GPS Sports Smart Watch, Black
Title
Suunto 7 GPS Sports Smart Watch, Black
Ratings
-
Price/Performance
Price Details
Check Amazon Price
Preview
Garmin Forerunner 235, GPS Running Watch, Black/Gray
Title
Garmin Forerunner 235, GPS Running Watch, Black/Gray
Ratings
-
Price/Performance
Price Details
Check Amazon Price
Preview
Garmin Instinct Solar (Tidal Blue) Power Bundle | +PlayBetter 2200mAh Portable Charger & HD Screen Protectors...
Title
Garmin Instinct Solar (Tidal Blue) Power Bundle | +PlayBetter 2200mAh Portable Charger & HD Screen Protectors...
Ratings
Price/Performance
Price Details
Check Amazon Price

Which Tracker? Suunto or Garmin?

Ultimately the choice in tracker between the 2 makes really will come down to personal choice and the features that they both offer. They are both excellent brands that offer real value for money in the field of tracking devices.

Here we have put together a small comparison of a few models from each brand in different price brackets:

Reduced Price
Garmin fenix 6 Sapphire, Premium Multisport GPS Watch, Features Mapping, Music, Grade-Adjusted Pace Guidance...
Garmin fenix 6 Sapphire, Premium Multisport GPS Watch, Features Mapping, Music, Grade-Adjusted Pace Guidance...
  • Fit for performance with rugged, sophisticated design that features an always-on 1.3 inches (18%...
  • Enhanced estimated wrist heart rate and Pulse Ox to support advanced sleep monitoring and altitude...
  • Advanced training features include PacePro for grade-adjusted pace guidance throughout your activity...
Check Amazon Price
Suunto Core All Black Military Men's Outdoor Sports Watch - SS014279010
Suunto Core All Black Military Men's Outdoor Sports Watch - SS014279010
  • An altimeter tracks your vertical movement, a barometer tells the Trend in air pressure, and a...
  • Suunto core tracks both the weather and the sun for you; Operating temperature: 20° C to +60° C /...
  • A weather Trend graph and storm alarm along with preset sunrise/sunset times for over 400 locations...
Check Amazon Price

If you’re interested in reading more, we compared Suunto to the more cost-accessible Fitbit, here.

Avatar
Joanne Jeffries

A highly motivated all-round writing professional with experience in writing about modern technology.

February 22, 2021 By Joanne Jeffries Leave a Comment Filed Under: Buying Guides, Featured Posts, Reviews Tagged With: diving watches, Garmin, Garmin Fenix 5, running watches, Suunto, trail running watches

The Best Garmin Diving Watch: Garmin Descent MK2

Garmin Descent MK2

When Garmin released the Descent MK2, they changed the world of diving! This smartwatch not only offers the traditional diving tools but doubles up as a fitness tracker and smartwatch with notifications. This means that once you have purchased it, you will probably never take it off again!

How Well Is the Garmin Descent MK2 Designed?

The Garmin Descent MK2 is built to wow and will look ultra-sleek when you put it on. It has a 1.4-inch screen that is made from sapphire crystal. The case is made from fiber-reinforced polymer and metal. It weighs in at 103.8g and is seriously comfortable when it is on your wrist because of the smooth silicone strap.

The screen displays the date and time and has a stainless steel bezel so that you can work your way through the different menu items. These include the all-important diving and fitness features that will keep you safe when you are underwater.

How Good Is the MK2 Battery Life?

When it comes to battery life, there are many different modes to choose from with a range of lifespans:

  • Smartwatch battery lasts up to 16 days.
  • GPS battery life is a maximum of 48 hours.
  • GPS and music playback will run for 15 hours.
  • Max Battery GPS provides up to 96 hours.
  • Dive Mode lasts for a total of 80 hours.
  • Battery Saver gives you up to 50 days of use.
  • Expedition GPS Mode provides up to 35 days.

These modes certainly give you plenty of options. Furthermore, they go to show just how varied this watch is for all aspects of your life.

Garmin Descent Mk2, Watch-Style Dive Computer, Multisport Training/Smart Features, Stainless Steel with Black...
Garmin Descent Mk2, Watch-Style Dive Computer, Multisport Training/Smart Features, Stainless Steel with Black...
  • Advanced, watch-style dive computer with 1.4” color sunlight-readable display (36% larger than...
  • Six dive modes as well as multi-GNSS support and ABC sensors — including an underwater compass —...
  • Features enhanced wrist-based heart rate estimates and Pulse Ox (this is not a medical device)...
Check Amazon Price

What Diving Features Does this watch have?

When it comes to diving, this watch will help you no matter how long you have been interested in this pastime. Not only will it help to guide you and keep you safe when you are new to diving, but it will also offer more advanced functions for both open and closed circuit use, such as gauge only, PP02 setting, and nitrox to 100%.

The other great thing about this diving watch is that it can be used for many different diving uses with modes like Apnea and Spearfish. When it comes to finding your bearings, the in-built compass will guide you where you need to go and keep you in the right place as you travel through the water. You can even store the data for up to 200 dives. This allows you to monitor and evaluate your progress over time and download it directly to your smartphone for use when you are back on land.

You can dive up to 100m with this device. Furthermore, you can find out all the tidal information you need to know through the Connect IQ technology. The best thing is that the casing is truly watertight. It will not flood as long as you do not take it beyond its dive limit. To access the menu and functions, you simply press on the watch buttons to get to where you need without any hassle.

Other Features

This watch is built to stay on your wrist all day long. There is a huge range of sports tracking options. These will go with you whether you are in the water, on land, or flying through the air and enable you to track everything. There is also a range of fitness workouts to follow, meaning that you will be in the best condition of your life!

In addition to tracking your sporting adventures, the Descent MK2 works to tell you exactly how you are doing. Consequently, you are never left wondering about your performance. From oxygen saturation levels to heart rate, calorie goals, and hydration levels, this watch will let you know how well your body is handling what you are throwing at it.

There is even a barometric altimeter, gyroscope, accelerometer, and thermometer ready for you to use. These features will help you understand the conditions in which you are working. The Descent MK2 provides you with all the information you need to maximize your efforts, no matter what you are up to.

You can also use this watch to help you with day to day life. Texts, emails, and other notifications are delivered to your wrist with ease. You can be confident that no matter where you are, you will always be contactable to the people that need you the most.

Pros and Cons Of the Garmin Descent MK2

If you like the sound of this diving watch, take a moment to check out the main pros and cons so that you can be fully informed before you decide whether to proceed or not:

Pros
  • Wide range of diving features that will keep you excited about heading into the water.
  • Multi-sports tracking for when you are on land.
  • Notifications are delivered directly to your wrist.
  • Up to 100m dive capability.
  • Excellent battery life options to select from.
  • Expert design means a low chance of your watch flooding.
  • Works well for both novice and expert divers.
Cons
  • The price tag is hefty and can be off-putting if you are only just starting with diving.
  • The music and GPS usage time are not great, and so you will need to be careful how much battery you are draining when you are planning a dive.
Garmin Descent Mk2i, Watch-Style Dive Computer with Air Integration, Multisport Training/Smart Features,...
Garmin Descent Mk2i, Watch-Style Dive Computer with Air Integration, Multisport Training/Smart Features,...
  • Advanced, watch-style dive computer with 1.4” color sunlight-readable display (36% larger than...
  • With six dive modes as well as multi-GNSS support and ABC sensors — including an underwater...
  • Pair with the Descent T1 transmitter (sold separately) for integrated pressure monitoring on up to 5...
Check Amazon Price

Should I Buy the Garmin Descent MK2?

The best thing about this smartwatch is that it can be used by both novice and expert divers and will provide clear information that is easy to understand and utilize. If you are starting with diving, then this watch will be the companion that you need as you grow in confidence under the water.

If you want a super reliable diving watch that can provide you with fitness tracking, body stats and let you know when someone is trying to reach you, then this is the watch for you. Buy yours today; you won’t regret it.


Follow Us

facebook instagram twitter download on pinterest tumblr
Avatar
Superwatches
www.superwatches.com

December 13, 2020 By Superwatches Leave a Comment Filed Under: Brands, Fitness & Sports Watches, Reviews Tagged With: dive watches, diving watches, fitness tracker reviews, Garmin, garmin descent mk2, multisport watches, sports watch reviews

SUUNTO Zoop Novo Scuba Diving Wrist Computer

Diver entering the water

Looking for a scuba diving computer but find yourself confused over which one to get? Our review of the Zoop Novo will help you to make an informed choice.

What’s the Fuss About the SUUNTO Zoop Novo Wrist Scuba Diving Computer?

SUUNTO are world leaders in wrist diving computers. The Finnish company has a wealth of knowledge when it comes to making equipment that will last.

The SUUNTO Zoop Novo is a budget-friendly diving computer. It is the perfect choice for novice or learner divers. There is a wealth of features that help you track everything you want and measure how deep you are. So you can be certain you are where you want to be. We like the clean design and ease of use with this computer. Furthermore, we are happy with the performance levels it offers. You may also want to view alternatives from Suunto such as the Suunto D5.

What Has SUUNTO Included in the Zoop Novo Scuba Diving Wrist Computer?

The Zoop Novo is packed with features. These will make it easy to track your dive and keep you safe when you are in the water. There is a button-operated menu that will take you through the diving modes you can choose from:

  • Air Mode – this is used when undertaking your dives on air. Select this option. You will be able to monitor your dive time, depth and no-deco time. And be able to see what the time is.
  • Nitrox Mode – choose this more if you want your computer to be set for 21 to 50% oxygen content.
  • Gauge Mode – Select this mode and your computer will work as a bottom timer. It will show you the time, depth and temp of your dive. This mode is ideal for when you plan dives via computer software or by calculating your own decompression time.
  • Free Dive Mode – this mode will help you to see your depth, dive time, max depth and the surface time of each of your free dives.
  • Off Mode – this mode is when the computer is turned off and not activated when you are in the water.

In reality, you can typically expect to use the Air and Nitrox modes the most. It is simple to let the computer calculate everything for you.

Other features include three personal adjustment abilities as well as three altitude adjustments. When you have it the way you want it all you need to do it strap it to your wrist and start your dive; it really is that simple.

What Does the SUUNTO Zoop Novo Scuba Diving Wrist Computer Look Like?

The Zoop Novo has an attractive and functional design that is similar to the original Zoop. However, there are key changes that have made it easier to read and use when you are in the water. There are three colour options and the protection glass is more raised on this model. The display is squared, and the digits are all clearly displayed for ease of use.

This is a computer that is made with ease of use in mind. You can remove the battery and replace it quickly without much fuss. This is a diving computer that is focused on offering the practical features. Rather than focusing on style over substance.

The Zoop Novo automatically starts as soon as you jump in, then starts up dive mode when you start to descend. You can turn on the backlight so that your screen is always clear to read. Whatever your depth, there is a feature that will let you log a bookmark whenever you want to measure the time, depth and temp. You can then check the analysis when you come back up.

When you start your ascent, you will be guided by bars on the display that will check you do not go over the 10m/min rate. The computer will give you a countdown before you can hit the surface in a bid to stop a nitrogen build-up.

If you are planning multiple dives over a short space of time, then the Zoop Novo will allow you to record up to 140 hours of dives ready to be uploaded to your computer via a USB when you are ready. This information can then be tracked and analysed to give you clear feedback on each dive.

What Concerns Are There With the SUUNTO Zoop Novo Scuba Diving Wrist Computer?

If you are looking for a diving computer that is the height of style over functionality, then this is not the one for you. There has been negative feedback on the basic nature of the Zoop Novo, but it is made with the novice diver in mind. Make sure that you are looking for a simple to use and basic model before spending your money as you may end up disappointed. However, if you want something that is easy to use and tracks the must-have info, then you are bound to love the Zoop Novo.

dving watch

Why Should I Buy a SUUNTO Zoop Novo Scuba Diving Wrist Computer?

If you have been considering getting a diving computer to track your dives, then the Zoop Novo is a great choice. It is a basic model that is the perfect choice for any new diver who wants to track and analyse their dives. However, this is not the model for any hardcore diver or free diver as it is not efficient enough for this type of diving.

Zoop Novo will help you to know what is going on when you are in the water. It will give you the chance to see how you are progressing over time from the downloadable data from each dive. SUUNTO has made a great diving computer with the Zoop Novo, and we are happy to highly recommend it.

Follow Us

Facebook Instagram Twitter Pinterest
Avatar
Jacquelyn Ellis
www.superwatches.com

December 22, 2020 By Jacquelyn Ellis Leave a Comment Filed Under: Fitness & Sports Watches, Reviews Tagged With: diving watches, Fitness tracker, sports watch, Suunto

Swimming Watches – What Are They Really?

Swimming watches

The term ‘water-resistant’ is seen as standard on most smartwatches today so what makes the difference with swimming watches? It’s a useful feature that protects the tech that lies within watches, but there’s actually more to this function than you might realise.  

What does ‘waterproof’ actually mean?

No watch is 100% waterproof. There is a limit to the amount of water pressure any watch can handle and while the word might suggest that it won’t take in water under any circumstance, this isn’t the case. A water-resistant watch may simply resist a shower, or be suitable for deep diving – you need to know which before getting it wet.

If you’ve invested in an expensive multisport watch, for example, it’s important to get it tested annually. The rating only applies to it when you get it out of the box. Don’t expect it to offer the same thing five years later.

How is it measured?

Watches are rated by ATMs or atmospheres. 1ATM is about 10m. 

Should I get a diving watch if I’m a swimmer?

Divers watches can stand very deep depths – up to 200m in some cases. They have few openings to limit vulnerability to water ingress. If your interests extend to scuba diving, surfing, boating or anything of that ilk, you’re advised to get a diving watch.

If you’re a triathlete, however, there are multisport watches that will suit you better, offering accurate performance data and fitness tracking. 

testing swimming watches

Testing a watch for swimming

If the advert boasts that the watch is water-resistant to 30m it doesn’t mean you can dive 30m with it on, as many times as you like, and expect the watch to keep working. It’s the biggest misconception. 

During testing, in a lab, the watch will undergo a pressure test that mimics water pressure, which is actually done under only 10cm of water, over the course of 60 minutes. The ATM measurement is given following this test.

The key thing to remember is that this test is done in still water. In real-life situations, water is not static. Imagine a wave coming at you, a hose being sprayed, or the impact of you diving into a pool; this will change the water pressure instantly.

Understanding the ratings

There is a range of classifications for watches that can be used in water – here’s a quick guide:

  • If there’s nothing stated at all about water resistance, you shouldn’t get it wet at all.
  • Water-resistant means you can splash it, but not submerge it.
  • 30m – This can withstand rain and hand-washing type splashes but you shouldn’t wear it during lengthy swimming sessions or diving.
  • 50m – Some swimming and water sports on the surface, rather than under it. Still not good for diving.
  • 100m – Can be used underwater. Good for swimming and diving and most water sports.
  • 200m – Pretty much anything except for really deep water dives.
Swimming Watches

What should I buy?

Swimming-dedicated trackers range from budget models ideal for casual swimmers who are interested in lap times, up to complex analytical data gathering multisport watches for triathletes. The right watch for you depends on exactly what you need from it.

Summary

Swimming trackers have been trending for a while now – no surprise considering the amount of complicated tech being packed into smartwatches. Even if a waterproof watch isn’t being used to monitor and analyse swimming data, the waterproofing will protect the expensive hardware in the case.

The choice isn’t plentiful, yet. A lot of fitness trackers will boast their waterproof features, but look carefully at the classification and understand what you can and cannot do with them. Realise too that an overall fitness tracker won’t provide extensive swim-specific data.

There are some great features to look out for, like automatic detection of your stroke, lap and distance tracking in the pool and GPS capability to monitor your open water sessions. If you can get hold of one with a heart rate monitor you’ll also know your calorie burn and efficiency. All these features offer insights that will help you to get the most out of your training.

Follow Us

Facebook Instagram Twitter Pinterest
Maygen
Maygen

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

December 13, 2020 By Maygen Leave a Comment Filed Under: Buying Guides Tagged With: diving watches, sport watches, swimming watches, waterproof watches

The Suunto D5 Review

Suunto D5 Diving Watch

We couldn’t wait to introduce the Suunto D5. Suunto was an early entrant into the market for electronic dive computers. Having launched its SME-ML model back in the late 1980s. This innovative unit was considerably smaller than its rivals. Around the same size as a depth-gauge so that it would fit neatly onto the wrist. Even better, it was more affordable. It’s no wonder that the Suunto brand is still around while its two main rivals from back then are long gone.

Today, the Suunto brand remains one of the top contenders in the dive computer field. It offers a diverse variety of products. These suit both the requirements of recreational divers and those who want to push the boundaries of technical diving. The D5 is one of Suunto’s latest releases – a wristwatch-style computer that is designed with recreational divers in mind. Despite being created for this market, it’s capable of handling advanced recreational diving. It’s possible to switch between 3 air/nitrox mix notifications when underwater.

What’s The Suunto D5’s Design Like?

The Suunto D5 is designed for wear as a dress watch. For this reason, the brand has really focused on its choice of straps. For diving, its Zulu strap is designed to be just as secure as a NATO strap. It passes through two pins to guard against loss of the device. There are even extension straps available to accommodate people with larger wrists and thicker dive suits. With so many different casing colours and straps, it couldn’t be easier to keep track of your own unit even when you’re diving with someone else who owns one.

The D5 features relatively large numbers, and this makes it quite simple to see the information onscreen. Thanks to the custom functions, it’s possible to change the layout of the screen to suit your own needs and preferences. The screen is illuminated at all times by a powerful, adjustable-intensity LED.

What About The Suunto D5’s Features?

The D5 features an RGBM algorithm – the Fused 2 Buhlmann 16gf – which was designed by the Suunto brand itself to minimize silent bubbles.
The D5 is different from its other dive computers since it allows shorter decompression times after a deep-air dive. It’s capable of handling nitrox and regular air along with two extra switchable nitrox decompression mixtures up to 99% oxygen. It’s possible to adjust the algorithm to allow for different amounts of liberalism or conservatism. Altitude ranges can be manually selected and so can maximum oxygen partial pressures.
Dives can be logged and viewed onscreen, transferred onto paper or sent wirelessly to a smartphone thanks to the Suunto app.

It’s also possible to integrate the D5 with your stage tanks and main cylinder thanks to the Suunto POD. You’ll need one for each cylinder to predict how much gas remains, based on the breathing rate. There is even a gauge mode to suit those who want to plan dives with tables as well as a freediving mode.

What Are The Suunto D5s Dive Capabilities?

Alarms are integrated into the Suunto D5’s design which can be pre-set to give an alert at set times and depths. There is both an audible and a graphic warning to make sure that the alert is noticed by the user. The device even vibrates to ensure that you remain informed about your air, depth and time.

The deco feature allows you to link with the POD to the gas supply so you can see roughly how long you can expect it to last. You’ll also be able to view your total ascent time so you can judge whether you have sufficient breathing gas to cover that time. The D5 will indicate your optimal decompressing depth and ceiling so you have the information at your fingertips to help you decide how far you want to take things. There’s even a deep-stop option that comes into use on a no-stop dive to ask for a short stop at about half of the greatest depth attained.

Another excellent feature is the electronic compass. This has an easily visible degree scale which is set around the perimeter of the device. You’re also able to present your heading so you can easily navigate back to the exit point.

Deep diving

What Are The Main Advantages of The Suunto D5?

  • A long-life rechargeable Lithium-Ion Battery
  • The software can be updated
  • Water-resistant down to 328 feet (100 meters)
  • Several modes including gauge, digital compass, free dive and air/nitrox options
  • Wireless tank pressure can be monitoring
  • There is a wireless Bluetooth mobile connection with the Suunto app for syncing data
  • A choice of straps including exchangeable leisure and silicone straps
  • There are vibrating, audible and visual alarms and alerts

What Are The Main Disadvantages Of The Suunto D5?

  • The Plan mode may be too simple – there’s no ability to run a complete depth/time simulation

Should I Buy The Suunto D5 Dive Computer?

If you’re a keen recreational diver who tackles a range of dive types including those which are more advanced, the Suunto D5 could be the ideal choice for you. Its well-thought-out design allows users to easily read the display, even in the darkest areas while its audible, visual and vibrating alarms ensure that you won’t miss key alerts for your own safety. Always worth comparing Suunto vs Garmin and more specifically you may want to review Garmin Descent MK1.

This device boasts user-updatable features as well as the capability to switch between three nitrox/air mixes. This makes it an excellent choice for more able divers who are keen to push their boundaries underwater. There is even the facility to sync data to social media from the D5, so this adds up to one pretty impressive dive computer.

The interchangeable straps only add to the style and visual appeal of this device. It can be worn out of the water just as easily as in it, and this makes the Suunto D5 a great choice for all kinds of recreational divers.

Follow Us

Facebook Instagram Twitter Pinterest
Avatar
Jacquelyn Ellis
www.superwatches.com

December 13, 2020 By Jacquelyn Ellis 1 Comment Filed Under: Fitness & Sports Watches, Reviews Tagged With: diving watches, Suunto D5 Review, suunto reviews, swimming watches, watches for diving, waterproof watches

Amazfit GTR Review – Fashion Meets Function

Amazfit GTR

If bulky and easily noticeable smartwatches aren’t your style, you might want to check out Amazfit GTR by Huami. Its elegant design stands out among the the usual tech-oriented watches which may not be everyone’s cup of tea.

GTR is one of several recent smartwatch releases by Huami which provides high-quality wearable tech at a relatively affordable price. You might want to check out the details of their other releases to make the right choice for your lifestyle: Amazfit Stratos 3, Amazfit GTS, Amazfit Nexo, Amazfit Verge Lite and Amazfit BIP Lite. 

If you prefer to match your wearable tech to your personality and style, the GTR has a lot to offer. We’ve compiled everything you need to know about this smartwatch in order to help you make the correct choice. 

Features

Battery lasts up to 24 daysSleep analysis
12 Sports modesRemotely control your music app
WaterproofAvailable in 47mm and 42mm
AMOLED displayHeart rate monitoring

Appearance And Design

The Amazfit GTR comes in two size variations, 47mm and 42mm. The watch body is made from titanium for durability while the microcrystalline zirconium ceramic bezel gives the dial a more elegant look.

The 47mm GTR has a standard edition and a glitter edition made with sparkle cubic zirconia Austrian Crystals. It utilizes a 1.39” AMOLED display with a resolution of 456 x 456 pixels. The touch screen is made from Corning Gorilla Glass 3 and has an anti-fingerprint coating. the always-on feature is not present in this version. Additionally, it comes with a 22mm strap, which is made from leather or fluororubber, depending on the version.

The 42mm version has four colours: Starry Black, Cherry Blossom Pink, Moonlight White and Coral Red. It also has a glitter edition for a further refined look. Its 1.2”AMOLED display has a display resolution of 390x390pixels. The strap varies in colour depending on your choice, and is slightly thinner at 20mm. This GTR does have an always-on display.

Both variants have a power button and a function button on the body. The power button can be used to close the screen, return to the main dial and shut down the device after a 10-second press. The function button allows you to set a quick access function to customise the device according to your needs.

Battery

According to the manufacturer, the 47mm smartwatch has an impressive battery life of 24 days in ordinary usage. If you turn off the fitness tracking features, its life can be extended to 74 days as a basic watch. The 42mm version is less frugal on power – typical usage will give you 12 days while basic watch mode extends to 34 days.

Both smartwatches can be fully charged in around two hours and use a LiPo battery.

Functionality

Aside from looking like fashionable wearable tech, GTR does aim to provide users with the smartwatch functionality, which consists of:

Live Connection

From notifying you about calls to setting up reminders, the GTR will never let you miss an alert. You can integrate the smartwatch to provide utility to elevate your lifestyle. Get reminders to move or set your own alarms for various tasks without relying on your phone. You can view most of your notifications from different apps on the device, minimising distractions. There is no microphone, speaker or keyboard so you’ll need to have your phone in order to respond to notifications or calls.

Up To 12 Fitness Activity Modes

In order to help you accurately understand your fitness activities, the Amazfit smartwatch has 12 distinct modes:

RunningIndoor Cycling
TreadmillOpen Water Swimming
Trail RunningPool Swim
WalkingClimbing
EllipticalSkiing
Outdoor CyclingExercise

The smartwatch is waterproof up to 5ATM, making it suitable for basic swimming. However it is not recommended for scuba diving, deep water diving and high-speed water sports.

BioTracking

Aside from the physical sports aspects, the watch comes with its proprietary BioTracker sensors which help analyse performance, heart rate and sleep. It alerts you on any irregularities and allows you to recalibrate your lifestyle accordingly.

Music Playback

You can remotely control your music player with the GTR so you can get an uninterrupted, hands-free listening experience. You can perform basic functions like playing, pausing or skipping tracks, as well as volume control, all from the touch screen.

In-built GPS Tracking

Whether you’re out on a run or need to evaluate your pace, the device’s GPS framework helps to gather the data you’ll need. Having on-device functionality allows for an accurate reading while enabling better battery management.

Activity Sync and App

All your tracked data is neatly presented in an accompanying app with further analytics to help you make sense of your readings. It completes the whole smartwatch experience by providing you with historical records to understand your performance better. Additionally, it also allows you to customise your watch faces and customise notifications according to your own preference.

Main AdvantagesMain Disadvantages
Fashionable covert designGPS, sleep and heart rate tracking can be slightly inaccurate
Customizable watch facesLimited features available
12 Activity modes including swim track
Heart rate monitoring
Long lasting battery

Summary

The Amazfit GTR offers the functionality of a sports watch with the design elegance of traditional watches. While there are some limitations, it does deliver on its basic premise and provides you with analysis you could use to improve your daily life. All in all, if you’re looking for a covert smartwatch without much of the frills and bulk of traditional wearable tech, the GTR is definitely worth checking out.

Follow Us

Facebook Instagram Twitter twitter
Emma Morris
Emma Morris

Emma is an experienced Virtual Assistant and is our Copy and Visual Editor and Social Media Manager. When not working, Emma enjoys life with her little girl, partner and Jack Russell Terrier in the lovely countryside of the South West UK.

December 13, 2020 By Emma Morris Leave a Comment Filed Under: Fitness & Sports Watches, News, Reviews Tagged With: Amazfit, cycling watches, diving watches, trail running watches, Xiaomi

  • Go to page 1
  • Go to page 2
  • Go to Next Page »

Affiliate Disclosure: Superwatches.com is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program. As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchase.
Our participation in affiliate programs is at no extra cost to you.

Copyright © 2021 · Superwatches.com · Privacy · FAQ · Terms · Contact us[rank_math_breadcrumb]

We use cookies on our website to give you the most relevant experience for repeat visits. By clicking “Accept”, you consent to the use of cookies.
Cookie settingsACCEPT
Privacy & Cookies Policy

Privacy Overview

This website uses cookies to improve your experience while you navigate through the website. Out of these, the cookies that are categorized as necessary are stored on your browser as they are essential for the working of basic functionalities of the website. We also use third-party cookies that help us analyze and understand how you use this website. These cookies will be stored in your browser only with your consent. You also have the option to opt-out of these cookies. But opting out of some of these cookies may affect your browsing experience.
Necessary
Always Enabled

Necessary cookies are absolutely essential for the website to function properly. This category only includes cookies that ensures basic functionalities and security features of the website. These cookies do not store any personal information.

Non-necessary

Any cookies that may not be particularly necessary for the website to function and is used specifically to collect user personal data via analytics, ads, other embedded contents are termed as non-necessary cookies. It is mandatory to procure user consent prior to running these cookies on your website.

SAVE & ACCEPT