Updated 18 Sep 2018
Garmin
Vivosmart 3
Snapshot: The Garmin Vivosmart 3 is waterproof, but has no GPS. It works with both iOS and Android phones.
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Test results
Overall score
Fitness functions
Smart functions
Ease of use
Battery
Good points
- OK for fitness functions.
- Accurate fitness sensors.
- OK for smart functions.
- OK to use.
- OK battery.
- Good features.
- Can be worn while swimming.
- Works with both iOS and Android.
But
- Just OK for apps.
- Doesn't have GPS.
How we test
Overall score is based on:
Fitness functions (25%). Includes sleep tracking and assessments of fitness apps. Also includes Sensor accuracy which assesses the precision of sensors such as heart rate monitors and step counters.
Smart functions (25%). Includes phone functions, social media and voice recognition.
Ease of use (25%). Includes set-up, usability, and build quality.
Battery (15%). Includes battery life and recharge time.
App (5%). Assesses base app on phone.
Features (5%). Assesses available features.
Price is based on a September 2018 survey.
Key data
Model
Avg price
Type
More test results (/10)
Apps
Features
Sensor accuracy
Heart rate accuracy
Brand survey results
Brand reliability (%)
Brand satisfaction (%)
Specifications
Weight (g)
Battery life (tested, hours)
Time to fully charge from 0% (mins)
Charge gained from 0% in 30 minutes (%)
Features
Heart-rate monitor
Sleep tracker
Water resistant
Can swim with
Bluetooth
NFC
GPS
Works with iOS
Works with Android
Touchscreen
Clock display
Text message notification/read/reply
Make and receive calls
Music control
Navigation
Control phone camera
Member reviews
"Worked great until the strap broke"
29 Sep 2018, Derek & Sarah B.
Product use: 6 months or more
Pros:
Did what it said on the box, text/phone alerts were very handy.
Cons:
The strap broke after about 15 months and is not (easily) replaceable. It seems to be a known problem with these devices so its something to watch out for. Some of the newer versions of these types of device have a standardised strap which is probably a better bet.
Recommend it?
Maybe, it depends on what you're after.
"It's real good"
28 Jul 2018, A M M.
Product use: 1 month or less
Pros:
Really easy to use, and great functionality. It's easy to control your music and view the weather. If you choose so, every notification from your phone can come to this watch, meaning you can receive Instagram Direct Messages and updates, Texts, game notifications, News, and much more. Hidden display works really well.
Cons:
Not much, but the screen is a little small and rarely, you end up pressing the wrong button. Not many watch face options, and the accelerometer doesn't always recognise it when you lift your wrist. Only minor things, really.
Recommend it?
Yes, I recommend this product.
