What new features have been added to the Garmin Instinct 3?
The Garmin Instinct 3 introduces several enhancements over its predecessor, the Instinct 2:
- Display Options: Offers both vibrant coloured AMOLED and traditional monochrome MIP Solar displays,
catering to those who prefer the brightness and clarity of the AMOLED displays over the extreme battery efficiency of the Solar versions.
- Significantly improved contrast ratio on MIP Solar display, making the display much easier to read.
- Enhanced Solar Charging: The Solar models feature a new solar layer, increasing solar charging
efficiency by five times compared to the Instinct 2 Solar.
- Built-in Flashlight: The super-handy LED flashlight feature is now available on all Instinct 3 models.
- Advanced GNSS Support: Incorporates multi-band/dual-frequency GNSS for improved accuracy in challenging
environments, along with Garmin's SatIQ feature for optimal satellite selection and battery management.
- Health and Fitness Enhancements: Add features like Nap Detection, Sleep Coach, Training Load Focus, and
Training Load Ratio to provide comprehensive health insights.
- Garmin Pay Contactless payment support is now standard across all Instinct 3 models
- Design and Durability: Features a metal-reinforced bezel for added durability
- New color options to suit various styles.
What features are missing from the Garmin Instinct 3?
While the Garmin Instinct 3 series introduces several enhancements, it notably lacks certain features found in other Garmin models:
- Heart Rate Sensor:The Instinct 3 continues to use Garmin's older Elevate V4 optical
heart rate sensor, missing out on
the improved accuracy and additional functionalities, such as ECG capabilities, offered by the newer V5 sensor.
-
Mapping: Unlike some competitors in its price range, the Instinct 3 does not
support onboard/offline maps, limiting its navigation to basic breadcrumb routing without detailed topographical information.
- Touchscreen:Even with the introduction of a high-res AMOLED display option, the Instinct series still
lacks a touchscreen option, relying solely on button navigation, which may affect ease-of-use for some users.
Which edition of the Garmin Instinct 3 should I choose?
Choose the AMOLED Instinct 3 if you prioritise:
- Vibrant, High-Resolution Display: sharper colors, deeper blacks, and better contrast, making it easier to read indoors and in dim environments.
- Better Aesthetics & Modern Look: for a sleek, smartwatch-like experience, AMOLED looks more premium compared to the traditional MIP display.
- Enhanced Smart Features:AMOLED models support Always-On Display (AOD), improving at-a-glance readability. There is also a wider selection of watch faces and animations.
- Indoor & Nightime Visibility: AMOLED screens are better for low-light environments and indoor use
- All the above over battery life: The AMOLED model still has great battery life, but requires more frequent charging than the Solar version.
Choose the MIP Solar Instinct 3 if you prioritise:
- Extreme Battery Life & Solar Charging: with the potential of unlimited battery life in smartwatch mode
- Infrequent charging: best for long outdoor adventures or when charging frequently is inconvenient.
- Outdoor & Direct Sunlight Readability: MIP displays perform best under direct sunlight, making it ideal for hikers, runners, and outdoor adventurers.
- Better battery efficiency:The Solar model lasts significantly longer in GPS mode, making it perfect for ultramarathons, multi-day hikes, and extended outdoor use.
- Classic Instinct ruggedness: The MIP version maintains the classic Instinct look and durability, with a screen designed to be easier on the eyes in bright outdoor settings.
In summary, if you want a vibrant, modern-looking smartwatch with crisp visuals, go for the AMOLED Instinct 3. If, on the other
hand, you need extreme battery life, solar charging, and the best outdoor visibility, the Instinct 3 Solar is the better choice.
Does the Garmin Instinct 3 have Maps?
The Garmin Instinct 3 series does not come with preloaded topographic or street maps. Instead, it offers
basic navigation features such as breadcrumb trails and waypoint navigation. While the watch displays your route as a line on the screen
and can show city names, it lacks detailed mapping capabilities.
Does the Garmin Instinct 3 have music download and playback?
The Garmin Instinct 3 series does not support onboard music storage or playback. While it allows
for basic music control - such as play, pause, skip, and volume adjustment - on a connected smartphone, it lacks the capability to
store music files directly on the device. This means you cannot download or play music from streaming services like Spotify,
Amazon Music, or YouTube Music directly from the watch.
Is the Garmin Instinct 3 touchscreen?
No, the Garmin Instinct 3 series does not feature a touchscreen interface, even on models
equipped with AMOLED displays. Instead, it relies on Garmin's traditional five-button navigation system for all interactions.
Does the Garmin Instinct 3 have a built-in flashlight?
Yes, all models in the Garmin Instinct 3 series feature an LED flashlight with both white and red light options.
What customization options are available on the Garmin Instinct 3?
Users can customise watch faces, data fields, and utilise various widgets. The device is also compatible with the Connect IQ Store for
additional apps and watch faces.
