Garmin vívosmart 3 Large Review | 171 Data compared

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  • Avg. price in UK: ~£130
  • Avg. price in US: ~$140
  • Form factor: wristband
  • Battery life: 5 days
  • Screen size: 0.85 inch

Garmin vívosmart 3 Large review. Compare 171 technical specifications and user reviews to see how it ranks among fitness trackers and if it is worth buying.

7.5

Overall score

What it is: An overall evaluation of the fitness tracker's quality, based on technical analyses and user reviews.

When it matters: When you need a quick reference to identify the best fitness trackers on the market.

Score components:

80.0%

7.3

Technical Score

20.0%

8.2

User score

Very good
7.3

Technical Score

What it is: An assessment of the fitness tracker's technical performance, covering eight key areas: health tracking, sports features, connectivity, display, battery, smart features, design, and app support.

When it matters: When you want to compare fitness trackers based on technical performance and available features.

Score components:

20.0%

8.4

Sports & Navigation

20.0%

4.5

Battery

18.0%

8.4

Health

18.0%

6.4

Display

8.0%

8.3

Smart Features

8.0%

9.1

App & Wellness

4.0%

9.1

Connectivity

4.0%

8.1

Design & Durability

Very good
8.2

User score

What it is: A rating that combines user reviews and the total number of reviews received by the fitness tracker.

When it matters: When you want to know how a fitness tracker performs in daily use and how reliable it remains over time according to user feedback.

Score components:

70.0%

7.4

User reviews

30.0%

10

Popularity

User score:
United Kingdom
amazon
3.6
(1170)
amazon
3.9
(540)

(Reviews last updated: Jun 2026)

Excellent
  • 6.5
    Swimming

    Score components:

    28.0%

    10

    ATM rating

    24.0%

    4.0

    Open-water swim mode

    18.0%

    10

    Waterproof depth rating

    15.0%

    4.0

    GPS

    15.0%

    2.0

    Battery life

  • 6.3
    Kids

    Score components:

    30.0%

    2.0

    Battery life

    25.0%

    8.4

    Weight

    20.0%

    10

    ATM rating

    15.0%

    3.8

    Screen size

    10.0%

    9.8

    Price

  • garmin-vivosmart-3-large
  • garmin-vivosmart-3-large
  • garmin-vivosmart-3-large
  • garmin-vivosmart-3-large
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Best prices in UK

Best rankings

?

Available: ranking among products currently available (including other versions of this product).
All: ranking among all products in the database.

Verdict

The Garmin Vivosmart 3 Large is an ultra-slim fitness tracker measuring 18.5 mm wide and 9.8 mm thick, specifically sized for wrists with a circumference of 148–215 mm. It features a hidden 64 x 128 pixel OLED touchscreen embedded in a silicone unibody strap, delivering a lightweight 21.5g design that is waterproof to 50 meters (5 ATM). Key characteristics include 24/7 Garmin Elevate wrist-based heart rate monitoring, VO2 max estimation, fitness age tracking, and all-day stress monitoring with guided breathing exercises. Main pros include its comfortable, discreet form factor, accurate step counting, and a specialized strength training profile that automatically counts weightlifting reps and sets. However, notable cons include the lack of a built-in GPS, non-swappable bands that limit customization, and an integrated screen that can appear cloudy or difficult to read in direct sunlight.

Technical Specifications of Garmin vívosmart 3 Large

Technical Score

What it is: An assessment of the fitness tracker's technical performance, covering eight key areas: health tracking, sports features, connectivity, display, battery, smart features, design, and app support.

When it matters: When you want to compare fitness trackers based on technical performance and available features.

Score components:

20.0%

8.4

Sports & Navigation

20.0%

4.5

Battery

18.0%

8.4

Health

18.0%

6.4

Display

8.0%

8.3

Smart Features

8.0%

9.1

App & Wellness

4.0%

9.1

Connectivity

4.0%

8.1

Design & Durability

7.3
Garmin vívosmart 3 Large has a technical score of 7.31 points, which is higher than 62% of fitness trackers.
User score

What it is: A rating that combines user reviews and the total number of reviews received by the fitness tracker.

When it matters: When you want to know how a fitness tracker performs in daily use and how reliable it remains over time according to user feedback.

Score components:

70.0%

7.4

User reviews

30.0%

10

Popularity

User score:
United Kingdom
amazon
3.6
(1170)
amazon
3.9
(540)

(Reviews last updated: Jun 2026)

8.2
Garmin vívosmart 3 Large has a user score of 8.17 points, which is higher than 63.9% of fitness trackers.
Popularity
What it is: An indicator based on the number of reviews received by the fitness tracker.
When it matters: When you prefer to buy a product chosen and reviewed by many other consumers.
10
Garmin vívosmart 3 Large has a popularity of 10 points, which is higher than 60.1% of products in this category.
Ratio quality/price

What it is: An indicator that combines the fitness tracker's overall rating with its cost.

When it matters: When you are looking for a fitness tracker with a good balance between quality and price.

Score components:

60.0%

7.5

Overall score

40.0%

9.8

Price

8.2
Garmin vívosmart 3 Large has a quality-to-price ratio of 8.2 points, which is higher than 59.2% of products in this category.
Heart rate monitor
What it is: Sensor that measures heart rate in real time.
When it matters: When you care about live heart-rate feedback during training or resting trends outside of workouts.

Importance: HIGH

yes
Garmin vívosmart 3 Large supports heart rate monitoring. 40.2% of fitness trackers support heart rate monitoring.
Resting heart rate
What it is: Measures heart rate while resting.
When it matters: When deeper insight into sleep quality, recovery, or overall readiness matters more than raw numbers alone.

Importance: MEDIUM

yes
Garmin vívosmart 3 Large supports Resting heart rate. 52% of fitness trackers support Resting heart rate.
Tracks resting heart rate.
Fast/slow heart rate alerts
What it is: Alerts for heart rates that are too fast or too slow.
When it matters: When you want the tracker to warn you about unusual changes instead of only logging them.

Importance: LOW

yes
Garmin vívosmart 3 Large supports high and low heart rate alerts. 66.8% of fitness trackers support high and low heart rate alerts.
High heart rate alert only.
Irregular heart rate alerts
What it is: Warns of irregular or abnormal heart rhythms.
When it matters: When you want the tracker to warn you about unusual changes instead of only logging them.

Importance: LOW

no
Garmin vívosmart 3 Large does not support irregular heart rate alerts. 11.5% of fitness trackers support irregular heart rate alerts.
Blood oxygen sensor
What it is: Sensor that measures blood oxygen saturation.
When it matters: When blood oxygen readings are part of the health picture you want from the device instead of relying on heart rate and step count alone.

Importance: MEDIUM

no
Garmin vívosmart 3 Large does not have a blood oxygen sensor. 26.1% of fitness trackers have a blood oxygen sensor.
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GPS
What it is: Satellite navigation capability for positioning and tracking.
When it matters: When you train outdoors and want pace, distance, and route tracking without depending completely on your phone.

Importance: LOW

no
Garmin vívosmart 3 Large does not have GPS. 11% of fitness trackers have GPS.
Satellite systems supported
What it is: States which satellite navigation systems the device can use for positioning.
When it matters: When you train outdoors and want stronger positioning, route guidance, and navigation independence from your phone.

Importance: LOW

?
GNSS bands supported
What it is: Number and type of GNSS frequency bands supported.
When it matters: When you train outdoors and want stronger positioning, route guidance, and navigation independence from your phone.

Importance: LOW

no
Garmin vívosmart 3 Large does not support advanced GNSS bands. 8.9% of fitness trackers support advanced GNSS bands.
Galileo support
What it is: Supports Galileo satellite system.
When it matters: When you train outdoors and want stronger positioning, route guidance, and navigation independence from your phone.

Importance: LOW

no
Garmin vívosmart 3 Large does not support Galileo. 4.9% of fitness trackers support Galileo.
Acquires GPS faster
What it is: Shows whether the tracker includes features that help it lock onto satellite positioning more quickly at the start of an outdoor activity.
When it matters: When you train outdoors and want stronger positioning, route guidance, and navigation independence from your phone.

Importance: LOW

no
Garmin vívosmart 3 Large does not support faster GPS acquisition. 7.2% of fitness trackers support faster GPS acquisition.
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Notifications
What it is: Delivers smartphone notifications on the watch.
When it matters: When getting calls, messages, and app alerts on your wrist saves you from checking your phone constantly.

Importance: MEDIUM

yes
Garmin vívosmart 3 Large supports notifications. 27.5% of fitness trackers support notifications.
Vibrating alerts
What it is: Provides vibration-based notifications and alerts.
When it matters: When staying reachable from your wrist helps you avoid checking your phone constantly.

Importance: LOW

yes
Garmin vívosmart 3 Large supports vibration alerts. 16.3% of fitness trackers support vibration alerts.
Call control
What it is: Allows control of phone calls from the device.
When it matters: When staying reachable from your wrist helps you avoid checking your phone constantly.

Importance: LOW

yes
Garmin vívosmart 3 Large supports call controls. 59.4% of fitness trackers support call controls.
Accept/reject on the tracker; audio stays on the phone.
Call answering
What it is: Allows answering calls directly from the device.
When it matters: When staying reachable from your wrist helps you avoid checking your phone constantly.

Importance: LOW

no
Garmin vívosmart 3 Large does not support call answering. 1% of fitness trackers support call answering.
Calendar sync
What it is: Syncs calendar events with the connected device.
When it matters: When staying reachable from your wrist helps you avoid checking your phone constantly.

Importance: LOW

no
Garmin vívosmart 3 Large does not support calendar sync. 19.9% of fitness trackers support calendar sync.
Show more
Activity reports
What it is: Generates summaries and insights from activity data.
When it matters: When you want the app to motivate you with goals, reports, coaching, or progress feedback over time.

Importance: LOW

yes
Garmin vívosmart 3 Large supports activity reports. 5.7% of fitness trackers support activity reports.
via Garmin Connect
Goal setting
What it is: Allows setting personal fitness or activity goals.
When it matters: When you want the app to motivate you with goals, reports, coaching, or progress feedback over time.

Importance: LOW

yes
Garmin vívosmart 3 Large supports goal setting. 2.4% of fitness trackers support goal setting.
Achievements
What it is: Rewards progress and completed milestones.
When it matters: When you want the app to motivate you with goals, reports, coaching, or progress feedback over time.

Importance: LOW

yes
Garmin vívosmart 3 Large supports achievements. 24.3% of fitness trackers support achievements.
Inactivity alerts
What it is: Alerts when the user has been inactive for too long.
When it matters: When account rules, app costs, exports, or software flexibility affect whether the ecosystem suits you long term.

Importance: LOW

yes
Garmin vívosmart 3 Large supports inactivity alerts. 23.7% of fitness trackers support inactivity alerts.
Move reminders supported.
Coaching
What it is: Provides guided training and workout advice.
When it matters: When you want the app to motivate you with goals, reports, coaching, or progress feedback over time.

Importance: LOW

no
Garmin vívosmart 3 Large does not support coaching. 33% of fitness trackers support coaching.
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Bluetooth version
What it is: Version of Bluetooth supported by the device.
When it matters: When wireless stability, pairing quality, and long-term phone compatibility matter more than Bluetooth being a simple checkbox.

Importance: LOW

Good value: >=5.0

?
Maximum Bluetooth range
What it is: States the maximum Bluetooth connection range supported under normal conditions.
When it matters: When compatibility with your phone, computer, accessories, or wireless setup affects how well the tracker fits into your ecosystem.

Importance: LOW

Good value: >=10 m

10 m
Garmin vívosmart 3 Large offers a Bluetooth range of 10 m which is higher than that of 14.6% of fitness trackers and equal to that of 69.2% of fitness trackers.
NFC
What it is: Supports near-field communication for contactless features.
When it matters: When compatibility with your phone, computer, accessories, or wireless setup affects how well the tracker fits into your ecosystem.

Importance: LOW

no
Garmin vívosmart 3 Large does not have NFC. 10.1% of fitness trackers have NFC.
Wi-Fi connectivity
What it is: Connects to wireless internet networks.
When it matters: When the tracker should sync, update, or download data directly without always routing everything through the phone.

Importance: LOW

no
Garmin vívosmart 3 Large does not support Wi-Fi. 1.8% of fitness trackers support Wi-Fi.
Wi-Fi version
What it is: Version of Wi-Fi standard supported.
When it matters: When compatibility with your phone, computer, accessories, or wireless setup affects how well the tracker fits into your ecosystem.

Importance: LOW

no
Garmin vívosmart 3 Large does not support modern Wi-Fi. 1% of fitness trackers support modern Wi-Fi.
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Battery life
What it is: Total time the battery lasts on a full charge.
When it matters: When the tracker needs to last through travel, sleep tracking, long workouts, or several days between charges.

Importance: HIGH

Good value: >5 days

5 days
Garmin vívosmart 3 Large offers a battery life of 5 days which is shorter than that of 79.2% of fitness trackers and equal to that of 12.4% of fitness trackers.
Battery life with GPS on
What it is: Battery duration when GPS tracking is active.
When it matters: When you want fewer charging breaks during travel, longer workouts, sleep tracking, or continuous use.

Importance: LOW

Good value: >=8 hours

N/A
Battery life in training mode
What it is: Battery duration during active training sessions.
When it matters: When you want fewer charging breaks during travel, longer workouts, sleep tracking, or continuous use.

Importance: LOW

?
Battery life in power-saving mode
What it is: Battery duration when using power-saving mode.
When it matters: When you want fewer charging breaks during travel, longer workouts, sleep tracking, or continuous use.

Importance: LOW

N/A
Battery capacity
What it is: Energy storage capacity of the battery.
When it matters: When you want rough battery context behind the runtime claim instead of trusting the advertised hours alone.

Importance: MEDIUM

Good value: >=100 mAh

?
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Display
What it is: Main interface showing information and metrics.
When it matters: When easier reading at a glance and better day-to-day screen comfort matter to you.

Importance: LOW

yes
Garmin vívosmart 3 Large has a display. 24.1% of fitness trackers have a display.
Hidden monochrome OLED display.
Screen size
What it is: Physical size of the device’s display measured diagonally.
When it matters: When easier reading at a glance and better day-to-day screen comfort matter to you.

Importance: MEDIUM

0.85 inch
Garmin vívosmart 3 Large has a screen size of 0.85 inch which is smaller than that of 78.3% of fitness trackers.
Display type
What it is: Technology used for the screen, such as AMOLED or LCD.
When it matters: When display technology affects contrast, color quality, power efficiency, or how premium the screen feels.

Importance: MEDIUM

OLED
Garmin vívosmart 3 Large uses OLED display technology which is more advanced than that of 53% of fitness trackers and the same as that of 21.8% of fitness trackers.
Screen resolution
What it is: Total number of pixels displayed on the screen.
When it matters: When easier reading at a glance and better day-to-day screen comfort matter to you.

Importance: MEDIUM

64 x 128
Garmin vívosmart 3 Large has a screen resolution of 64x128 which is higher than that of 52.3% of fitness trackers.
Pixel density
What it is: Number of pixels per inch determining screen sharpness.
When it matters: When easier reading at a glance and better day-to-day screen comfort matter to you.

Importance: LOW

Good value: >=280 ppi

168 ppi
Garmin vívosmart 3 Large has a pixel density of 168 ppi which is lower than that of 81.4% of fitness trackers.
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Form factor
What it is: Overall physical design and shape.
When it matters: When materials, shape, and build details affect comfort, durability, or how discreet the device feels.

Importance: LOW

wristband
Hybrid design
What it is: Combines analog and digital display elements.
When it matters: When materials, shape, and build details affect comfort, durability, or how discreet the device feels.

Importance: LOW

no
Garmin vívosmart 3 Large does not support Hybrid design. 2.4% of fitness trackers support Hybrid design.
Designed for kids
What it is: Indicates whether the fitness tracker is explicitly designed for children, with child-focused sizing, branding, safety limits, or kid-oriented activity features.
When it matters: This matters when you want a tracker that is genuinely child-focused rather than just a smaller adult model.

Importance: LOW

no
Garmin vívosmart 3 Large is not designed for kids. 2.4% of fitness trackers are designed for kids.
No child-specific positioning found.
Replaceable watch band
What it is: Ability to replace the wristband with other styles.
When it matters: When strap comfort, fit, or the ability to swap bands matters for sport, style, or replacement.

Importance: LOW

no
Garmin vívosmart 3 Large does not have a replaceable watch band. 76.1% of fitness trackers have a replaceable watch band.
Band width
What it is: Width of the strap where it connects to the watch.
When it matters: When strap comfort, fit, or the ability to swap bands matters for sport, style, or replacement.

Importance: LOW

18 mm
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Garmin vívosmart 3 Large vs the average fitness tracker

  • Measures VO2 max
    Garmin vívosmart 3 Large supports VO2 max tracking, while the average fitness tracker does not. 22.5% of fitness trackers support VO2 max tracking.
    What it is: Measures maximum oxygen uptake during exercise.
    When it matters: When deeper insight into sleep quality, recovery, or overall readiness matters more than raw numbers alone.

    Importance: LOW

    Garmin vívosmart 3 Large supports VO2 max tracking, while the average fitness tracker does not. 22.5% of fitness trackers support VO2 max tracking.
  • Lower resting heart rate
    Garmin vívosmart 3 Large supports Resting heart rate, while the average fitness tracker does not. 48.2% of fitness trackers support Resting heart rate.
    Tracks resting heart rate.
    What it is: Measures heart rate while resting.
    When it matters: When deeper insight into sleep quality, recovery, or overall readiness matters more than raw numbers alone.

    Importance: MEDIUM

    Garmin vívosmart 3 Large supports Resting heart rate, while the average fitness tracker does not. 48.2% of fitness trackers support Resting heart rate.
  • Touchscreen
    Garmin vívosmart 3 Large has a touchscreen, while the average fitness tracker does not. 43.8% of fitness trackers have a touchscreen.
    What it is: Ability of the display to recognize touch input.
    When it matters: When smooth touch response and quicker on-screen interaction matter during workouts or daily use.

    Importance: LOW

    Garmin vívosmart 3 Large has a touchscreen, while the average fitness tracker does not. 43.8% of fitness trackers have a touchscreen.
  • Heart rate alerts
    Garmin vívosmart 3 Large supports high and low heart rate alerts, while the average fitness tracker does not. 33.5% of fitness trackers support high and low heart rate alerts.
    High heart rate alert only.
    What it is: Alerts for heart rates that are too fast or too slow.
    When it matters: When you want the tracker to warn you about unusual changes instead of only logging them.

    Importance: LOW

    Garmin vívosmart 3 Large supports high and low heart rate alerts, while the average fitness tracker does not. 33.5% of fitness trackers support high and low heart rate alerts.
  • Phone finder support
    Garmin vívosmart 3 Large supports phone finding, while the average fitness tracker does not. 49.5% of fitness trackers support phone finding.
    What it is: Helps locate a connected smartphone.
    When it matters: When staying reachable from your wrist helps you avoid checking your phone constantly.

    Importance: LOW

    Garmin vívosmart 3 Large supports phone finding, while the average fitness tracker does not. 49.5% of fitness trackers support phone finding.
  • Tracks elevation
    Garmin vívosmart 3 Large supports elevation tracking, while the average fitness tracker does not. 27.2% of fitness trackers support elevation tracking.
    What it is: Measures elevation gain and loss during activity.
    When it matters: When you train outdoors and want stronger positioning, route guidance, and navigation independence from your phone.

    Importance: LOW

    Garmin vívosmart 3 Large supports elevation tracking, while the average fitness tracker does not. 27.2% of fitness trackers support elevation tracking.
  • Tracks menstrual cycle
    Garmin vívosmart 3 Large supports menstrual cycle tracking, while the average fitness tracker does not. 41.7% of fitness trackers support menstrual cycle tracking.
    Includes menstrual-cycle tracking.
    What it is: Tracks menstrual cycle and related data.
    When it matters: When cycle tracking is part of your health routine and you want those records kept alongside the rest of your wearable data.

    Importance: LOW

    Garmin vívosmart 3 Large supports menstrual cycle tracking, while the average fitness tracker does not. 41.7% of fitness trackers support menstrual cycle tracking.
  • Ambient light sensor
    Garmin vívosmart 3 Large has an ambient light sensor, while the average fitness tracker does not. 15.8% of fitness trackers have an ambient light sensor.
    Auto brightness responds to ambient light.
    What it is: Adjusts brightness according to ambient light.
    When it matters: When visibility changes often between indoor, outdoor, daytime, and low-light conditions.

    Importance: LOW

    Garmin vívosmart 3 Large has an ambient light sensor, while the average fitness tracker does not. 15.8% of fitness trackers have an ambient light sensor.
  • Measures VO2 max
    Garmin vívosmart 3 Large supports VO2 max tracking, while the average fitness tracker does not. 22.5% of fitness trackers support VO2 max tracking.
  • Lower resting heart rate
    Garmin vívosmart 3 Large supports Resting heart rate, while the average fitness tracker does not. 48.2% of fitness trackers support Resting heart rate.
  • Heart rate alerts
    Garmin vívosmart 3 Large supports high and low heart rate alerts, while the average fitness tracker does not. 33.5% of fitness trackers support high and low heart rate alerts.
  • Tracks menstrual cycle
    Garmin vívosmart 3 Large supports menstrual cycle tracking, while the average fitness tracker does not. 41.7% of fitness trackers support menstrual cycle tracking.
  • Period notifications
    Garmin vívosmart 3 Large has period notifications, while the average fitness tracker does not. 32% of fitness trackers have period notifications.
  • Ovulation prediction
    Garmin vívosmart 3 Large predicts ovulation, while the average fitness tracker does not. 41.4% of fitness trackers predict ovulation.
  • Cycle start prediction
    Garmin vívosmart 3 Large predicts the start date, while the average fitness tracker does not. 42.2% of fitness trackers predict the start date.
  • Tracks elevation
    Garmin vívosmart 3 Large supports elevation tracking, while the average fitness tracker does not. 27.2% of fitness trackers support elevation tracking.
  • Built-in barometer
    Garmin vívosmart 3 Large has a barometer, while the average fitness tracker does not. 10.7% of fitness trackers have a barometer.
  • Auto lap
    Garmin vívosmart 3 Large supports auto lap, while the average fitness tracker does not. 19.9% of fitness trackers support auto lap.
  • Touchscreen
    Garmin vívosmart 3 Large has a touchscreen, while the average fitness tracker does not. 43.8% of fitness trackers have a touchscreen.
  • Ambient light sensor
    Garmin vívosmart 3 Large has an ambient light sensor, while the average fitness tracker does not. 15.8% of fitness trackers have an ambient light sensor.
  • Windows compatible
    Garmin vívosmart 3 Large is compatible with Windows, while the average fitness tracker is not. 22.3% of fitness trackers are compatible with Windows.
  • Mac OS X compatible
    Garmin vívosmart 3 Large is compatible with Mac OS X, while the average fitness tracker is not. 27.5% of fitness trackers are compatible with Mac OS X.
  • ANT+ support
    Garmin vívosmart 3 Large supports ANT+, while the average fitness tracker does not. 7.3% of fitness trackers support ANT+.
  • Phone finder support
    Garmin vívosmart 3 Large supports phone finding, while the average fitness tracker does not. 49.5% of fitness trackers support phone finding.
  • Call control
    Garmin vívosmart 3 Large supports call controls, while the average fitness tracker does not. 40.9% of fitness trackers support call controls.
  • Gesture control
    Garmin vívosmart 3 Large supports gesture controls, while the average fitness tracker does not. 40.8% of fitness trackers support gesture controls.
  • 1.2 mm thinner design
    Garmin vívosmart 3 Large is thinner than the average fitness tracker (9.8 mm vs 11 mm). The average fitness tracker has a thickness of 11 mm.
  • 14% lighter
    Garmin vívosmart 3 Large is lighter than the average fitness tracker (21.5 g vs 25 g). The average fitness tracker weighs 25 g.
  • Water intake tracking
    Garmin vívosmart 3 Large supports water intake tracking, while the average fitness tracker does not. 47% of fitness trackers support water intake tracking.
  • Available on PC
    Garmin vívosmart 3 Large is available on PC, while the average fitness tracker is not. 16.9% of fitness trackers are available on PC.
  • Points-based system
    Garmin vívosmart 3 Large supports a points-based system, while the average fitness tracker does not. 39.1% of fitness trackers support a points-based system.
  • 5 days shorter battery life
    Garmin vívosmart 3 Large has a lower battery life than the average fitness tracker (5 days vs 10 days). The average fitness tracker has 10 days of battery life.
  • 0.5 hours longer charging time
    Garmin vívosmart 3 Large has a higher charging time than the average fitness tracker (2 hours vs 1.5 hours). The average fitness tracker needs 1.5 hours to charge.
  • Lower screen resolution
    Garmin vívosmart 3 Large has a lower screen resolution than the average fitness tracker (64x128 vs 194x368). The average fitness tracker has a screen resolution of 194x368.
  • 0.19 inch smaller screen size
    Garmin vívosmart 3 Large has a lower screen size than the average fitness tracker (0.9 inch vs 1.04 inch). The average fitness tracker has a screen size of 1.04 inch.
  • 32% lower pixel density
    Garmin vívosmart 3 Large has a lower pixel density than the average fitness tracker (168 ppi vs 247 ppi). The average fitness tracker has a pixel density of 247 ppi.
  • No replaceable watch band
    Garmin vívosmart 3 Large does not have a replaceable watch band, while the average fitness tracker does. 75.7% of fitness trackers have a replaceable watch band.
  • 20 °C higher minimum operating temperature
    Garmin vívosmart 3 Large has a higher minimum operating temperature than the average fitness tracker (-20 °C vs 0 °C). The average fitness tracker supports a minimum operating temperature of 0 °C.
  • 5 days shorter battery life
    Garmin vívosmart 3 Large has a lower battery life than the average fitness tracker (5 days vs 10 days). The average fitness tracker has 10 days of battery life.
    What it is: Total time the battery lasts on a full charge.
    When it matters: When the tracker needs to last through travel, sleep tracking, long workouts, or several days between charges.

    Importance: HIGH

    Good value: >5 days

    Garmin vívosmart 3 Large has a lower battery life than the average fitness tracker (5 days vs 10 days). The average fitness tracker has 10 days of battery life.5 days vs 10 days
  • Lower screen resolution
    Garmin vívosmart 3 Large has a lower screen resolution than the average fitness tracker (64x128 vs 194x368). The average fitness tracker has a screen resolution of 194x368.
    What it is: Total number of pixels displayed on the screen.
    When it matters: When easier reading at a glance and better day-to-day screen comfort matter to you.

    Importance: MEDIUM

    Garmin vívosmart 3 Large has a lower screen resolution than the average fitness tracker (64x128 vs 194x368). The average fitness tracker has a screen resolution of 194x368.64x128 vs 194x368
  • 0.5 hours longer charging time
    Garmin vívosmart 3 Large has a higher charging time than the average fitness tracker (2 hours vs 1.5 hours). The average fitness tracker needs 1.5 hours to charge.
    What it is: Time required for a full charge.
    When it matters: When short charging windows matter and you do not want the tracker off your wrist for too long.

    Importance: MEDIUM

    Garmin vívosmart 3 Large has a higher charging time than the average fitness tracker (2 hours vs 1.5 hours). The average fitness tracker needs 1.5 hours to charge.2 hours vs 1.5 hours
  • 0.19 inch smaller screen size
    Garmin vívosmart 3 Large has a lower screen size than the average fitness tracker (0.9 inch vs 1.04 inch). The average fitness tracker has a screen size of 1.04 inch.
    What it is: Physical size of the device’s display measured diagonally.
    When it matters: When easier reading at a glance and better day-to-day screen comfort matter to you.

    Importance: MEDIUM

    Garmin vívosmart 3 Large has a lower screen size than the average fitness tracker (0.9 inch vs 1.04 inch). The average fitness tracker has a screen size of 1.04 inch.0.85 inch vs 1.04 inch
  • 32% lower pixel density
    Garmin vívosmart 3 Large has a lower pixel density than the average fitness tracker (168 ppi vs 247 ppi). The average fitness tracker has a pixel density of 247 ppi.
    What it is: Number of pixels per inch determining screen sharpness.
    When it matters: When easier reading at a glance and better day-to-day screen comfort matter to you.

    Importance: LOW

    Good value: >=280 ppi

    Garmin vívosmart 3 Large has a lower pixel density than the average fitness tracker (168 ppi vs 247 ppi). The average fitness tracker has a pixel density of 247 ppi.168 ppi vs 247 ppi
  • No replaceable watch band
    Garmin vívosmart 3 Large does not have a replaceable watch band, while the average fitness tracker does. 75.7% of fitness trackers have a replaceable watch band.
    What it is: Ability to replace the wristband with other styles.
    When it matters: When strap comfort, fit, or the ability to swap bands matters for sport, style, or replacement.

    Importance: LOW

    Garmin vívosmart 3 Large does not have a replaceable watch band, while the average fitness tracker does. 75.7% of fitness trackers have a replaceable watch band.
  • 85.7% more expensive
    Garmin vívosmart 3 Large is more expensive than the average fitness tracker (£130 vs £70).
    Garmin vívosmart 3 Large is more expensive than the average fitness tracker (£130 vs £70).£130 vs £70
  • 20 °C higher minimum operating temperature
    Garmin vívosmart 3 Large has a higher minimum operating temperature than the average fitness tracker (-20 °C vs 0 °C). The average fitness tracker supports a minimum operating temperature of 0 °C.
    What it is: Lowest temperature the device can safely operate at.
    When it matters: When you use the tracker in tougher temperatures, humidity, altitude, or outdoor conditions.

    Importance: LOW

    Garmin vívosmart 3 Large has a higher minimum operating temperature than the average fitness tracker (-20 °C vs 0 °C). The average fitness tracker supports a minimum operating temperature of 0 °C.20 °C vs 0 °C

Graphic comparison of Garmin vívosmart 3 Large and

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Third-party reviews

(Reviews last updated: Jun 2026)

What customers like about Garmin vívosmart 3 Large?

  • Extremely lightweight and comfortable for 24/7 wear
  • Fully waterproof (5 ATM), making it safe for swimming and showering
  • Advanced fitness metrics for its price, including VO2 Max and stress tracking
  • Includes a unique rep-counting feature for weightlifting
  • Solid battery life, typically lasting 5-6 days on a single charge
  • Discreet 'hidden' display that only activates when needed
  • Reliable heart rate monitoring and sleep tracking

What customers dislike about Garmin vívosmart 3 Large?

  • No built-in or connected GPS, limiting its appeal for serious runners
  • Display can appear 'cloudy' or blurry due to the silicone matte finish
  • Screen is difficult to read in direct sunlight
  • Non-replaceable bands; if the strap breaks, the entire unit may need replacing
  • Gesture-based screen activation can be laggy or unresponsive
  • Small screen makes reading long notifications difficult
  • Occasional Bluetooth syncing issues with the Garmin Connect app

Expert reviews

C
choose.co.uk
09/09/2018

Garmin Vivosmart 3 Review Summary The Garmin Vivosmart 3 is a lightweight, comfortable, and mid-range fitness tracker that is well-suited for everyday use, gym sessions, and swimming. On the positive side, it features an impressive battery life of five to six days, charges fully in just one hour, and is water-resistant up to 50 meters. It provides extensive tracking metrics...Read more

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techradar.com
20/02/2018

The Garmin Vivosmart 3 is a slim, lightweight, and waterproof fitness tracker that packs highly functional capabilities into a discreet, 21g silicone design. Geared specifically toward gym enthusiasts rather than dedicated runners, the wearable introduces advanced tracking metrics such as strength training rep counting, automated activity tracking, VO2 max estimations, and a...Read more

G
gearinstitute.com
31/01/2018

The Gear Institute review highlights the Garmin Vívosmart 3 as a comfortable, lightweight, and waterproof fitness tracker featuring effective stress-level monitoring, guided breathing exercises, and specialized weightlifting repetition tracking. However, the device is criticized for its small, hard-to-navigate screen, lack of integrated GPS, inaccurate automatic rep counting, and a...Read more

T
techgearlab.com
23/08/2017

The Garmin Vivosmart 3 is a middle-of-the-road fitness tracker designed for day-to-day use, though it falls short compared to competitors like Fitbit. On the positive side, it is comfortable to wear, has a low profile, and features a water-resistance rating of up to 5 ATM. It is exceptionally accurate at counting steps—averaging only a 0.56% discrepancy—and its heart rate sensor...Read more

C
cnet.com
06/08/2017

Garmin Vivosmart 3 Review Summary The Garmin Vivosmart 3 is a slim, highly comfortable, and fully waterproof activity tracker that marks a return to the hidden display and sleek aesthetics of the original Vivosmart model. Designed with a built-in heart-rate monitor providing 24/7 tracking, it introduces high-end metrics usually reserved for advanced running watches, such as VO2 max...Read more

T
trustedreviews.com
18/07/2017

The Trusted Reviews evaluation of the Garmin Vivosmart 3 highlights a mid-range tracker featuring a highly discreet, lightweight, and comfortable silicone design with a hidden, matte OLED touchscreen. Pros include strong 50-metre water resistance, a reliable five-day battery life, and effective, adaptive, dynamic step-goal tracking. Additionally, the device offers in-depth health...Read more

U
uk.pcmag.com
13/06/2017

The Garmin Vivosmart 3 review evaluates the $139.99 wearable as a highly capable and accurate fitness tracker housed in a plain, basic silicone bracelet design. It excels in advanced health metrics, providing users with a comprehensive overview of data like continuous heart rate monitoring, stress tracking, VO2 Max testing, and automatic step-goal adjustments. The review highly...Read more

M
mashable.com
16/05/2017

The Garmin vívosmart 3 is a $140 waterproof silicone fitness tracker specifically designed to bridge the gap between cardio tracking and weight room workouts. On the positive side, it features a comfortable, spartan design with an integrated OLED display that remains hidden when dormant. It delivers a solid five to six days of battery life and supports convenient lifestyle features...Read more

A
androidauthority.com
02/05/2017

The Garmin vívosmart 3 is a feature-rich fitness tracker priced around $139.99 that excels in gym environments but struggles with its design and interface. On the positive side, it delivers highly accurate VO2 max estimates, waterproof protection up to 50 meters, and an innovative heart rate variability feature for tracking daily stress. It stands out from competitors by offering a...Read more

D
dcrainmaker.com
12/04/2017

The Garmin Vivosmart 3 is a slim, lightweight, sub-$150 activity tracker designed to compete directly with the Fitbit Charge 2 and Alta HR. It introduces major feature upgrades, including 24/7 stress tracking utilizing heart rate variability (HRV), VO2Max estimations, a breathing relaxation timer, and a dedicated strength training mode that automatically tracks gym reps and sets....Read more

C
choose.co.uk
03/12/2018

The Apple Watch Series 4 acts as a premium, multi-functional smartwatch with a large, vibrant touchscreen, diverse customizable strap options, and robust connectivity including inbuilt GPS, Wi-Fi, and cellular options. It excels in user-friendly navigation, intuitive calorie tracking, and advanced heart health monitoring, including potential electrocardiogram functions. However, it...Read more

W
wareable.com
29/04/2017

The Wareable review highlights the Garmin Vivosmart 3 as a comfortable, lightweight, and waterproof fitness tracker with advanced features like rep counting, heart rate monitoring, stress tracking, and 5-day battery life. However, the device is limited by a lack of GPS, a low-visibility, smudge-prone display, non-interchangeable bands, and a complex companion app.

F
futurezone.at
28/07/2017

of the Garmin Vivosmart 3 The Garmin Vivosmart 3 is a highly functional, compact fitness tracker offered at an affordable retail price of €150, making it an appealing choice for hobby athletes who engage in various sports. Its primary strengths lie in its extensive feature set and lightweight, unobtrusive design, which comfortably accommodates gloves with wrist stabilizers during...Read more

C
chip.de
27/07/2017

The CHIP review concludes that the Garmin Vivosmart 3 is a highly convincing activity tracker that earns a "Good" overall test rating. Retailing for around €140, its primary pros lie in its redesigned, button-free form factor, which features a significantly slimmer profile and a screen that blends seamlessly into the silicone wristband. The device excels in baseline metrics,...Read more

C
chip.de
31/07/2017

The Garmin Vivosmart 3 is a highly capable, slim fitness tracker. It earned a "Good" (2.1) rating from CHIP's independent test center. Testing revealed that its standout strengths lie in its high tracking accuracy (featuring a 99.2% step precision), an extensive feature set, and comfortable ergonomics. Key pros highlighted in the review include an integrated continuous heart-rate...Read more

H
heise.de
17/05/2018

The Garmin Vivosmart 3 is a lightweight fitness tracker available in black, blue, and purple, featuring a fixed plastic wristband and a functional black-and-white touchscreen display. In testing, the tracker excelled due to its comfortable fit and exceptionally comprehensive Garmin Connect companion app, which delivers detailed long-term health metrics and data trends. Standout...Read more

F
fitnessarmband.eu
26/05/2021

The Garmin Vivosmart 3 is a lightweight, water-resistant (up to 50 metres) fitness tracker that offers accurate all-day activity metrics, including step counting, calorie tracking, and sleep analysis. It is praised for its high wearing comfort, sleek design, and an excellent, easy-to-use companion app (Garmin Connect). The optical heart rate monitor is highly accurate and performs...Read more

L
lesnumeriques.com
22/07/2017

The Garmin Vivosmart 3 is a mid-range fitness tracker launcher at €150 that delivers a solid, discreet experience for health monitoring but lacks essential hardware for outdoor sports. On the positive side, it stands out for its lightweight, highly discreet silicone design and full 5 ATM waterproofing up to 50 metres. It is packed with multiple tracking features, including steps,...Read more

W
watchgeneration.fr
27/02/2018

The Garmin Vivosmart 3 is a specialized, budget-friendly (€119.99) activity tracker designed for weightlifting, featuring automatic repetition counting and exercise recognition. Key advantages include an integrated heart rate sensor and altitude tracking, providing high value for strength training enthusiasts. However, the device is criticized for its banal design, uninspiring...Read more

M
montre-cardio-gps.fr
28/08/2017

The review of the Garmin Vivosmart 3 on Montre Cardio GPS frames the device as a direct, ultra-slim competitor to the Fitbit Charge 2, highlighting its shift toward a more discreet, lightweight (21g) form factor. A major pro of this activity tracker is its sleek, buttonless design featuring a hidden monochrome display that stays invisible until activated by a wrist gesture or a...Read more

C
cnetfrance.fr
28/08/2017

The Garmin Vivosmart 3 is highly praised by CNET as a slim, lightweight, and ultra-comfortable activity tracker packed with a broad suite of fitness and wellness metrics. Key positive features highlighted in the review include its full waterproofing (safe for swimming and showering), a built-in 24/7 heart-rate monitor, and a reliable 5-day battery life. It also stands out for...Read more

N
nakan.ch
11/06/2017

The Garmin Vivosmart 3 is a sleek, button-free fitness tracker that offers continuous optical heart rate monitoring, step tracking, floor climbing metrics, and automated sleep analysis. A major addition to this iteration is continuous stress tracking based on heart rate variability data. While the device lacks a built-in GPS module, it estimates workout distances for walking and...Read more

P
prorun.nl
07/06/2017

The Garmin Vivosmart 3 is a slim, sleek activity tracker designed to resemble a bracelet rather than a watch, featuring a discrete touchscreen display that blends into the band. Tested by ProRun, its standout health tracking capabilities include 24/7 heart rate monitoring, stress level scoring (1-100), a guided breathing timer for relaxation, and automatic VO2max and sleep cycle...Read more

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