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Garmin Venu 3S Review | 126 Data compared

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  • Avg. price in UK: ~£310
  • Avg. price in US: ~$450
  • Screen size: 1.2 inch
  • Battery life: 10 day/s
  • Display type: AMOLED

Garmin Venu 3S review. Compare 126 technical specifications and user reviews to see how it ranks among smartwatches and if it is worth buying.

8.0

Overall score

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

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

Score components:

90.0%

7.9

Technical Score

10.0%

9.3

User score

Excellent
7.9

Technical Score

What it is: An assessment of the smartwatch's technical performance, covering eight key areas: performance & hardware, software, camera, connectivity, display, battery, audio, and design.

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

Score components:

24.0%

8.2

Health

21.0%

9.1

Fitness

16.0%

5.9

Battery

14.0%

8.8

Smart features

12.0%

7.4

Connectivity

9.0%

7.2

Display & Design

4.0%

7.8

Hardware

Very good
9.3

User score

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

When it matters: When you want to know how a smartwatch handles daily tasks and how reliable it remains over time according to user feedback.

Score components:

70.0%

9.0

User reviews

30.0%

10

Popularity

User score:
United Kingdom
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4.8
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4.6
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4.1
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3.7
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4.8
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United States
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4.5
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4.7
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4.8
(167)
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4.3
(117)
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4.3
(18)
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4.8
(18)

(Reviews last updated: April 2026)

Exceptional
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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 Venu 3S is a premium 41mm health-focused smartwatch featuring a vibrant 1.2-inch AMOLED touchscreen with Corning Gorilla Glass 3 and a 5 ATM water resistance rating. It offers up to 10 days of battery life in smartwatch mode (5 days with always-on display), and includes advanced sensors such as the Elevate V5 heart rate monitor, Pulse Ox, and a barometric altimeter. Key characteristics include a built-in speaker and microphone for on-wrist calling and voice assistant access, alongside more than 30 preloaded sports apps and specialized features like sleep coaching, nap detection, and wheelchair-specific tracking. Main pros are its lightweight 40g design, exceptionally accurate GPS and heart rate tracking, and deep 'Body Battery' energy monitoring insights. However, notable cons include its high premium price, the lack of on-watch mapping or breadcrumb navigation, and limited smart functionality for iPhone users who cannot respond to texts directly from the device.

    Technical Specifications of smartwatch Garmin Venu 3S

    Technical Score

    What it is: An assessment of the smartwatch's technical performance, covering eight key areas: performance & hardware, software, camera, connectivity, display, battery, audio, and design.

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

    Score components:

    24.0%

    8.2

    Health

    21.0%

    9.1

    Fitness

    16.0%

    5.9

    Battery

    14.0%

    8.8

    Smart features

    12.0%

    7.4

    Connectivity

    9.0%

    7.2

    Display & Design

    4.0%

    7.8

    Hardware

    7.9
    Garmin Venu 3S has a technical score of 7.91 points, which is higher than 84.9% of smartwatches.
    User score

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

    When it matters: When you want to know how a smartwatch handles daily tasks and how reliable it remains over time according to user feedback.

    Score components:

    70.0%

    9.0

    User reviews

    30.0%

    10

    Popularity

    User score:
    United Kingdom
    amazon
    4.8
    (172)
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    4.6
    (106)
    amazon
    4.1
    (23)
    amazon
    3.7
    (20)
    amazon
    4.8
    (18)
    amazon
    4.2
    (17)
    amazon
    5.0
    (7)
    amazon
    3.3
    (3)
    amazon
    3.6
    (2)
    amazon
    4.0
    (1)
    United States
    Amazon_logo.png
    4.5
    (6022)
    Amazon_logo.png
    4.7
    (370)
    Amazon_logo.png
    4.8
    (167)
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    4.3
    (117)
    Amazon_logo.png
    4.3
    (18)
    Amazon_logo.png
    4.8
    (18)

    (Reviews last updated: April 2026)

    9.3
    Garmin Venu 3S has a user score of 9.32 points, which is higher than 92.3% of smartwatches.
    Popularity
    What it is: An indicator based on the number of reviews received by the smartwatch.
    When it matters: When you prefer to purchase a product chosen and reviewed by many other consumers.
    10
    Garmin Venu 3S has a popularity of 10 points, which is higher than 52.6% of products in this category.
    Ratio quality/price

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

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

    Score components:

    60.0%

    8.0

    Overall score

    40.0%

    8.9

    Price

    8.3
    Garmin Venu 3S has a quality-to-price ratio of 8.3 points, which is higher than 83.1% of products in this category.
    Brand name
    What it is: The company that designs, sells, and supports the watch.
    When it matters: When brand ecosystem, style, or support matters to you.

    Importance: MEDIUM

    Garmin
    Heart rate monitor
    What it is: A built-in sensor that measures your pulse directly from the wrist.
    When it matters: When you want health data from your wrist during the day or night.

    Importance: HIGH

    yes
    Garmin Venu 3S includes a heart rate monitor. 90.4% of smartwatches include a heart rate monitor.
    Blood oxygen monitoring
    What it is: A wrist-based feature that estimates blood oxygen saturation over time.
    When it matters: When you want health data from your wrist during the day or night.

    Importance: HIGH

    yes
    Garmin Venu 3S supports blood oxygen monitoring. 64.4% of smartwatches support blood oxygen monitoring.
    Readings are for wellness use, not medical diagnosis.
    ECG
    What it is: The ability to record a single-lead electrocardiogram from the wrist.
    When it matters: When you want health data from your wrist during the day or night.

    Importance: HIGH

    yes
    Garmin Venu 3S supports ECG. 15.1% of smartwatches support ECG.
    Availability may vary by region or model version. May require a compatible phone, software version, or app setup.
    Irregular heart rate warnings
    What it is: Notifications that flag heart-rate patterns which appear unusually irregular.
    When it matters: When you want health data from your wrist during the day or night.

    Importance: MEDIUM

    yes
    Garmin Venu 3S supports irregular heart rate warnings. 43.7% of smartwatches support irregular heart rate warnings.
    Show more
    Accelerometer
    What it is: A motion sensor that measures acceleration, steps, gestures, and general movement.
    When it matters: When you track workouts and want better training data.

    Importance: MEDIUM

    yes
    Garmin Venu 3S includes an accelerometer. 99.1% of smartwatches include an accelerometer.
    Barometer
    What it is: A pressure sensor used for altitude changes, elevation estimates, and weather-related context.
    When it matters: When you run, ride, hike, or navigate without relying on your phone.

    Importance: MEDIUM

    yes
    Garmin Venu 3S includes a barometer. 45.6% of smartwatches include a barometer.
    Gyroscope
    What it is: A motion sensor that measures rotation and helps interpret wrist movement more accurately.
    When it matters: When you track workouts and want better training data.

    Importance: MEDIUM

    yes
    Garmin Venu 3S includes a gyroscope. 64.6% of smartwatches include a gyroscope.
    Cadence sensor
    What it is: A sensor input used to measure step or pedal rhythm during training.
    When it matters: When you track workouts and want better training data.

    Importance: MEDIUM

    yes
    Garmin Venu 3S includes a cadence sensor. 20.1% of smartwatches include a cadence sensor.
    Cadence may require external sensor/app pairing on some models.
    Distance tracking
    What it is: The ability to measure how far you move during walks, runs, rides, or other activities.
    When it matters: When you track workouts and want better training data.

    Importance: MEDIUM

    yes
    Garmin Venu 3S supports distance tracking. 95.7% of smartwatches support distance tracking.
    Show more
    Battery life
    What it is: The typical endurance the watch can deliver on a full charge under the stated usage pattern.
    When it matters: When you do not want to charge the watch too often.

    Importance: HIGH

    Good value: >=7 days

    10 day/s
    Garmin Venu 3S offers a battery life of 10 day/s which is longer than that of 63.3% of smartwatches and equal to that of 6.7% of smartwatches.
    Up to 20 days in battery saver.
    Battery life in training mode
    What it is: The expected endurance while workout tracking and related training functions are active.
    When it matters: When you do not want to charge the watch too often.

    Importance: HIGH

    Good value: >=36.8 h

    21 h
    Garmin Venu 3S lasts 21 h in training mode which is longer than 53.6% of smartwatches and equal to that of 1.9% of smartwatches.
    Battery life with GPS on
    What it is: The expected runtime when satellite tracking stays active throughout use.
    When it matters: When you do not want to charge the watch too often.

    Importance: HIGH

    Good value: >=35 h

    21 h
    Garmin Venu 3S lasts 21 h with GPS on which is longer than 52.8% of smartwatches and equal to that of 3.4% of smartwatches.
    Battery power
    What it is: The battery capacity, usually measured in milliampere-hours (mAh).
    When it matters: When you do not want to charge the watch too often.

    Importance: HIGH

    Good value: >=397 mAh

    259 mAh
    Garmin Venu 3S has a battery capacity of 259 mAh which is smaller than the batteries in 69.1% of smartwatches of smartwatches.
    Charge time
    What it is: The time needed to recharge the battery from empty to full or to a stated percentage.
    When it matters: When you want to top up the battery quickly.

    Importance: HIGH

    Good value: <=102 min

    ?
    Show more
    Operating system
    What it is: The software platform that runs the watch interface, apps, and core functions.
    When it matters: When you care about apps, features, and long-term support.

    Importance: HIGH

    Garmin OS
    Garmin Venu 3S runs Garmin OS which is more advanced than the operating system in 71.1% of smartwatches and the same as that in 7.7% of smartwatches.
    Software update frequency
    What it is: Shows how actively the watch is still updated: regular means ongoing updates throughout active support, occasional means updates every few months or only from time to time, and ended means active software support has mostly stopped.
    When it matters: When you care how actively the watch is still supported with fixes, patches, and new features.

    Importance: MEDIUM

    occasional
    Garmin Venu 3S has occasional software update support which is more active than that of 57.6% of smartwatches and equal to that of 36.2% of smartwatches.
    Updates are typically released about every 3 months.
    Third-party app support
    What it is: Support for installing or using apps from developers beyond the watch maker.
    When it matters: When you care about apps, features, and long-term support.

    Importance: MEDIUM

    yes
    Garmin Venu 3S supports third-party apps. 47.6% of smartwatches support third-party apps.
    Notifications
    What it is: Mirroring of calls, messages, apps, or other alerts on the watch.
    When it matters: When you want to check alerts without taking out your phone.

    Importance: MEDIUM

    yes
    Garmin Venu 3S supports notifications. 99.9% of smartwatches support notifications.
    Voice assistant support
    What it is: Support for a voice assistant that can answer queries or trigger actions from the wrist.
    When it matters: When you want to control the watch or reply without typing.

    Importance: MEDIUM

    yes
    Garmin Venu 3S supports voice assistants. 68% of smartwatches support voice assistants.
    Show more
    Cellular module
    What it is: Built-in mobile connectivity that can keep the watch online away from the phone.
    When it matters: When you want calls, messages, or data without your phone nearby.

    Importance: HIGH

    no
    Garmin Venu 3S does not include a cellular module. 17.2% of smartwatches include a cellular module.
    SIM cards
    What it is: The number or type of SIM options the watch accepts for cellular service.
    When it matters: When you want calls, messages, or data without your phone nearby.

    Importance: LOW

    Good value: eSIM support

    0
    GPS
    What it is: Built-in satellite positioning that lets the watch record location during outdoor activity.
    When it matters: When you run, ride, hike, or navigate without relying on your phone.

    Importance: HIGH

    yes
    Garmin Venu 3S supports GPS. 56.1% of smartwatches support GPS.
    Galileo support
    What it is: Support for Galileo satellites alongside other positioning systems.
    When it matters: When you run, ride, hike, or navigate without relying on your phone.

    Importance: MEDIUM

    yes
    Garmin Venu 3S supports Galileo navigation. 38.7% of smartwatches support Galileo navigation.
    Compass
    What it is: A directional sensor that helps the watch determine heading and orientation.
    When it matters: When you run, ride, hike, or navigate without relying on your phone.

    Importance: MEDIUM

    yes
    Garmin Venu 3S includes a compass. 49.3% of smartwatches include a compass.
    Show more
    Screen size
    What it is: The diagonal measurement of the visible display area, usually expressed in inches.
    When it matters: When you want the screen to be easy to read at a glance.

    Importance: HIGH

    Good value: >=1.5 inch

    1.2 inch
    Garmin Venu 3S has a screen size of 1.2 inch which is smaller than the screens of 85.5% of smartwatches and equal to those of 7.8% of smartwatches.
    Display type
    What it is: The screen technology used by the watch, such as AMOLED, OLED, or memory-in-pixel LCD.
    When it matters: When you want the screen to be easy to read at a glance.

    Importance: HIGH

    AMOLED
    Garmin Venu 3S uses a AMOLED display type which is more advanced than that of 48.8% of smartwatches and the same as that of 51.3% of smartwatches.
    Resolution
    What it is: The total number of pixels available on the watch display.
    When it matters: When you want the screen to be easy to read at a glance.

    Importance: MEDIUM

    Good value: >=416 x 416

    390 x 390
    Garmin Venu 3S has a display resolution of 390x390 which is higher than that of 60.9% of smartwatches and equal to that of 6.1% of smartwatches.
    Pixel density
    What it is: The number of pixels packed into each inch of the display.
    When it matters: When you want the screen to be easy to read at a glance.

    Importance: MEDIUM

    Good value: >=326 ppi

    460 ppi
    Garmin Venu 3S has a pixel density of 460 ppi which is higher than that of 79.5% of smartwatches and equal to that of 5% of smartwatches.
    Display brightness
    What it is: The peak brightness the display can reach, usually expressed in nits.
    When it matters: When you want the screen to stay readable outdoors and in strong sunlight.

    Importance: HIGH

    Good value: >=1000 nits

    500 nits
    Garmin Venu 3S reaches 500 nits nits of display brightness, which is lower than that of 70% of smartwatches and equal to that of 15.5% of smartwatches.
    Show more
    CPU speed
    What it is: The clock speed of the watch processor, usually expressed in GHz or MHz.
    When it matters: When you want apps and menus to feel smooth.

    Importance: MEDIUM

    Good value: Modern standard

    ?
    Processor model
    What it is: The processor model is the chipset or SoC that powers the watch's performance, connectivity, and efficiency.
    When it matters: When you care about app responsiveness, platform generation, and long-term feature support.

    Importance: LOW

    Good value: modern smartwatch chipset

    ?
    RAM
    What it is: The amount of working memory available for apps, watch faces, and background tasks.
    When it matters: When you want apps and menus to feel smooth.

    Importance: MEDIUM

    Good value: >=1 GB

    8 GB
    Garmin Venu 3S has 8 GB of RAM which is larger than the RAM in 91% of smartwatches and equal to that of 1.9% of smartwatches.
    Internal storage
    What it is: Built-in storage for apps, music, watch faces, and other local data.
    When it matters: When you want more room for apps, music, or offline data.

    Importance: MEDIUM

    Good value: >=8 GB

    8 GB
    Garmin Venu 3S uses 8 GB for internal storage which is larger than that of 67.6% of smartwatches and equal to that of 12.1% of smartwatches.
    External memory slot
    What it is: A slot for expandable storage such as a memory card, if the watch provides one.
    When it matters: When you want more room for apps, music, or offline data.

    Importance: LOW

    no
    Garmin Venu 3S does not include an external memory slot. 0.3% of smartwatches include an external memory slot.
    Show more

    Garmin Venu 3S vs the average smartwatch

    • Has ECG
      Garmin Venu 3S supports ECG, the average smartwatch does not. 15.1% of smartwatches support ECG.
      Availability may vary by region or model version. May require a compatible phone, software version, or app setup.
      What it is: The ability to record a single-lead electrocardiogram from the wrist.
      When it matters: When you want health data from your wrist during the day or night.

      Importance: HIGH

      Garmin Venu 3S supports ECG, the average smartwatch does not. 15.1% of smartwatches support ECG.
    • Has NFC
      Garmin Venu 3S supports NFC, the average smartwatch does not. 42.5% of smartwatches support NFC.
      What it is: Near-field communication hardware used for payments, pairing, or quick tap-based actions.
      When it matters: When you want to pay quickly or pair devices with a tap.

      Importance: HIGH

      Garmin Venu 3S supports NFC, the average smartwatch does not. 42.5% of smartwatches support NFC.
    • Has temperature sensor
      Garmin Venu 3S includes a temperature sensor, the average smartwatch does not. 22.3% of smartwatches include a temperature sensor.
      What it is: A sensor that records skin or wrist temperature changes and longer-term trends.
      When it matters: When you want health data from your wrist during the day or night.

      Importance: MEDIUM

      Garmin Venu 3S includes a temperature sensor, the average smartwatch does not. 22.3% of smartwatches include a temperature sensor.
    • Has HRV tracking
      Garmin Venu 3S supports HRV tracking, the average smartwatch does not. 38.2% of smartwatches support HRV tracking.
      What it is: Measurement of heart-rate variability, the change in timing between heartbeats.
      When it matters: When you want health data from your wrist during the day or night.

      Importance: MEDIUM

      Garmin Venu 3S supports HRV tracking, the average smartwatch does not. 38.2% of smartwatches support HRV tracking.
    • 7 GB more RAM
      Garmin Venu 3S has more RAM than the average smartwatch (8 GB vs 1 GB). The average smartwatch includes 1 GB of RAM.
      What it is: The amount of working memory available for apps, watch faces, and background tasks.
      When it matters: When you want apps and menus to feel smooth.

      Importance: MEDIUM

      Good value: >=1 GB

      Garmin Venu 3S has more RAM than the average smartwatch (8 GB vs 1 GB). The average smartwatch includes 1 GB of RAM.8 GB vs 1 GB
    • Includes crash detection
      Garmin Venu 3S supports crash detection, the average smartwatch does not. 11.5% of smartwatches support crash detection.
      Requires paired phone/network and/or specific activities for automatic alerts.
      What it is: Detection of severe impacts or crashes that can trigger emergency workflows.
      When it matters: When you want extra help in an emergency.

      Importance: HIGH

      Garmin Venu 3S supports crash detection, the average smartwatch does not. 11.5% of smartwatches support crash detection.
    • Supports Emergency SOS
      Garmin Venu 3S includes Emergency SOS, the average smartwatch does not. 42.4% of smartwatches include Emergency SOS.
      paired phone required
      What it is: An emergency feature that can contact help or alert trusted people from the watch.
      When it matters: When you want extra help in an emergency.

      Importance: HIGH

      Garmin Venu 3S includes Emergency SOS, the average smartwatch does not. 42.4% of smartwatches include Emergency SOS.
    • More advanced operating system
      Garmin Venu 3S runs a more advanced operating system than the average smartwatch (Garmin OS vs Proprietary OS).
      What it is: The software platform that runs the watch interface, apps, and core functions.
      When it matters: When you care about apps, features, and long-term support.

      Importance: HIGH

      Garmin Venu 3S runs a more advanced operating system than the average smartwatch (Garmin OS vs Proprietary OS).Garmin OS vs Proprietary OS
    • Has ECG
      Garmin Venu 3S supports ECG, the average smartwatch does not. 15.1% of smartwatches support ECG.
    • Has temperature sensor
      Garmin Venu 3S includes a temperature sensor, the average smartwatch does not. 22.3% of smartwatches include a temperature sensor.
    • Has HRV tracking
      Garmin Venu 3S supports HRV tracking, the average smartwatch does not. 38.2% of smartwatches support HRV tracking.
    • Supports VO2 max
      Garmin Venu 3S measures VO2 max, the average smartwatch does not. 49.3% of smartwatches measure VO2 max.
    • Has irregular heart alerts
      Garmin Venu 3S supports irregular heart rate warnings, the average smartwatch does not. 43.7% of smartwatches support irregular heart rate warnings.
    • Has sweat tracking
      Garmin Venu 3S tracks perspiration, the average smartwatch does not. 11% of smartwatches track perspiration.
    • Has weight tracking
      Garmin Venu 3S supports weight tracking, the average smartwatch does not. 39.2% of smartwatches support weight tracking.
    • Supports water intake tracking
      Garmin Venu 3S tracks water intake, the average smartwatch does not. 48.2% of smartwatches track water intake.
    • Has barometer
      Garmin Venu 3S includes a barometer, the average smartwatch does not. 45.6% of smartwatches include a barometer.
    • Has cadence sensor
      Garmin Venu 3S includes a cadence sensor, the average smartwatch does not. 20.1% of smartwatches include a cadence sensor.
    • Has external HR monitor
      Garmin Venu 3S supports external heart rate monitor compatibility, the average smartwatch does not. 41.3% of smartwatches support external heart rate monitor compatibility.
    • 3 day/s longer battery life
      Garmin Venu 3S offers 10 day/s of battery life, while the average smartwatch offers 7 day/s.
    • Has NFC
      Garmin Venu 3S supports NFC, the average smartwatch does not. 42.5% of smartwatches support NFC.
    • Has compass
      Garmin Venu 3S includes a compass, the average smartwatch does not. 49.3% of smartwatches include a compass.
    • Supports Wi-Fi
      Garmin Venu 3S supports Wi-Fi, the average smartwatch does not. 43.4% of smartwatches support Wi-Fi.
    • Supports ANT+
      Garmin Venu 3S supports ANT+, the average smartwatch does not. 9.5% of smartwatches support ANT+.
    • Supports Galileo
      Garmin Venu 3S supports Galileo navigation, the average smartwatch does not. 38.7% of smartwatches support Galileo navigation.
    • Newer Bluetooth version
      Garmin Venu 3S supports a newer Bluetooth version than the average smartwatch (5.2 vs 5.0). The average smartwatch uses 5.0.
    • Stronger display glass
      Garmin Venu 3S uses Corning Gorilla Glass 3 display glass, while the average smartwatch uses mineral glass.
    • 134 ppi higher pixel density
      Garmin Venu 3S has a higher pixel density than the average smartwatch (460 ppi vs 326 ppi). The average smartwatch display reaches 326 ppi.
    • 4 mm narrower band
      Garmin Venu 3S has a narrower band width than the average smartwatch (18 mm vs 22 mm). The average smartwatch band is 22 mm wide.
    • Includes crash detection
      Garmin Venu 3S supports crash detection, the average smartwatch does not. 11.5% of smartwatches support crash detection.
    • Supports Emergency SOS
      Garmin Venu 3S includes Emergency SOS, the average smartwatch does not. 42.4% of smartwatches include Emergency SOS.
    • More advanced operating system
      Garmin Venu 3S runs a more advanced operating system than the average smartwatch (Garmin OS vs Proprietary OS).
    • Supports third-party apps
      Garmin Venu 3S supports third-party apps, the average smartwatch does not. 47.6% of smartwatches support third-party apps.
    • More frequent updates
      Garmin Venu 3S receives occasional software updates, while the average smartwatch receives ended updates.
    • 7 GB more RAM
      Garmin Venu 3S has more RAM than the average smartwatch (8 GB vs 1 GB). The average smartwatch includes 1 GB of RAM.
    • 4 GB more storage
      Garmin Venu 3S offers more internal storage than the average smartwatch (8 GB vs 4 GB). The average smartwatch provides 4 GB of storage.
    • 2 year/s newer release date
      Garmin Venu 3S has a newer release date than the average smartwatch (2023 vs 2021). The average smartwatch was released in 2021.

    Total
    Overall
    Health
    Fitness
    Battery
    Connectivity
    Display & Design
    Smart features
    Hardware
    • No routes
      Garmin Venu 3S does not support route support, the average smartwatch does. 50.4% of smartwatches support route support.
    • 50 fewer exercise profiles
      Garmin Venu 3S supports fewer exercise modes than the average smartwatch (30 vs 80). The average smartwatch supports 80 exercise modes.
      Reported as at least 30 exercise modes.
    • 41 mAh smaller battery capacity
      Garmin Venu 3S has a smaller battery capacity than the average smartwatch (259 mAh vs 300 mAh). The average smartwatch battery is 300 mAh.
    • 0.2 inch smaller screen size
      Garmin Venu 3S has a smaller screen size than the average smartwatch (1.2 inch vs 1.4 inch). The average smartwatch screen is 1.4 inch.
    • 100 nits lower display brightness
      Garmin Venu 3S has lower display brightness than the average smartwatch (500 nits nits vs 600 nits nits). The average smartwatch reaches 600 nits nits.
    • No smart alarm
      Garmin Venu 3S does not support a smart alarm, the average smartwatch does. 52.7% of smartwatches support this feature.
      No native smart alarm; third-party app required.
    • No camera remote control
      Garmin Venu 3S does not include built-in camera remote control, the average smartwatch does. 85.2% of smartwatches that are equipped with a camera include built-in camera remote control.
      Not built-in; available only via third-party apps.
    • 0.2 inch smaller screen size
      Garmin Venu 3S has a smaller screen size than the average smartwatch (1.2 inch vs 1.4 inch). The average smartwatch screen is 1.4 inch.
      What it is: The diagonal measurement of the visible display area, usually expressed in inches.
      When it matters: When you want the screen to be easy to read at a glance.

      Importance: HIGH

      Good value: >=1.5 inch

      Garmin Venu 3S has a smaller screen size than the average smartwatch (1.2 inch vs 1.4 inch). The average smartwatch screen is 1.4 inch.1.2 inch vs 1.4 inch
    • No smart alarm
      Garmin Venu 3S does not support a smart alarm, the average smartwatch does. 52.7% of smartwatches support this feature.
      No native smart alarm; third-party app required.
      What it is: A smart alarm tries to wake you during a lighter sleep phase within a chosen time window instead of at one fixed minute.
      When it matters: It matters if you wear your smartwatch overnight and want a gentler wake-up based on your sleep pattern rather than a standard fixed alarm.

      Importance: LOW

      Garmin Venu 3S does not support a smart alarm, the average smartwatch does. 52.7% of smartwatches support this feature.
    • No routes
      Garmin Venu 3S does not support route support, the average smartwatch does. 50.4% of smartwatches support route support.
      What it is: Support for following saved routes, courses, or turn guidance during activities.
      When it matters: When you run, ride, hike, or navigate without relying on your phone.

      Importance: LOW

      Garmin Venu 3S does not support route support, the average smartwatch does. 50.4% of smartwatches support route support.
    • No camera remote control
      Garmin Venu 3S does not include built-in camera remote control, the average smartwatch does. 85.2% of smartwatches that are equipped with a camera include built-in camera remote control.
      Not built-in; available only via third-party apps.
      What it is: Remote shutter control that lets the watch trigger a paired camera or phone camera.
      When it matters: When you want to control your phone camera from the watch.

      Importance: LOW

      Garmin Venu 3S does not include built-in camera remote control, the average smartwatch does. 85.2% of smartwatches that are equipped with a camera include built-in camera remote control.
    • 100 nits lower display brightness
      Garmin Venu 3S has lower display brightness than the average smartwatch (500 nits nits vs 600 nits nits). The average smartwatch reaches 600 nits nits.
      What it is: The peak brightness the display can reach, usually expressed in nits.
      When it matters: When you want the screen to stay readable outdoors and in strong sunlight.

      Importance: HIGH

      Good value: >=1000 nits

      Garmin Venu 3S has lower display brightness than the average smartwatch (500 nits nits vs 600 nits nits). The average smartwatch reaches 600 nits nits.500 nits vs 600 nits
    • 41 mAh smaller battery capacity
      Garmin Venu 3S has a smaller battery capacity than the average smartwatch (259 mAh vs 300 mAh). The average smartwatch battery is 300 mAh.
      What it is: The battery capacity, usually measured in milliampere-hours (mAh).
      When it matters: When you do not want to charge the watch too often.

      Importance: HIGH

      Good value: >=397 mAh

      Garmin Venu 3S has a smaller battery capacity than the average smartwatch (259 mAh vs 300 mAh). The average smartwatch battery is 300 mAh.259 mAh vs 300 mAh
    • 2.38x more expensive
      Garmin Venu 3S is more expensive than the average smartwatch (£310 vs £130).
      Garmin Venu 3S is more expensive than the average smartwatch (£310 vs £130).£310 vs £130
    • 50 fewer exercise profiles
      Garmin Venu 3S supports fewer exercise modes than the average smartwatch (30 vs 80). The average smartwatch supports 80 exercise modes.
      Reported as at least 30 exercise modes.
      What it is: The number of workout types or exercise profiles the watch can recognize or track.
      When it matters: When you track workouts and want better training data.

      Importance: LOW

      Good value: >=100

      Garmin Venu 3S supports fewer exercise modes than the average smartwatch (30 vs 80). The average smartwatch supports 80 exercise modes.30 vs 80
    Total
    Overall
    Fitness
    Battery
    Display & Design
    Smart features

    Graphic comparison of Garmin Venu 3S and other Smartwatches

    Attribute category
    Attribute
    No results found

    Third-party reviews

    United Kingdom
    amazon
    4.8
    172 Reviews
    Amazon_logo.png
    4.6
    106 Reviews
    amazon
    4.1
    23 Reviews
    amazon
    3.7
    20 Reviews
    amazon
    4.8
    18 Reviews
    amazon
    4.2
    17 Reviews
    amazon
    5.0
    7 Reviews
    amazon
    3.3
    3 Reviews
    amazon
    3.6
    2 Reviews
    amazon
    4.0
    1 Reviews
    United States
    Amazon_logo.png
    4.5
    6022 Reviews
    Amazon_logo.png
    4.7
    370 Reviews
    Amazon_logo.png
    4.8
    167 Reviews
    Amazon_logo.png
    4.3
    117 Reviews
    Amazon_logo.png
    4.3
    18 Reviews
    Amazon_logo.png
    4.8
    18 Reviews

    (Reviews last updated: April 2026)

    What customers like about Garmin Venu 3S?

    • Exceptional battery life, often lasting 7–10 days on a single charge.
    • Bright and clear AMOLED touchscreen display that is easy to read even in sunlight.
    • Stylish and compact 41mm design with diverse color options like soft gold and sage gray.
    • Highly accurate GPS and heart rate tracking performance across various sports.
    • Useful health features including advanced sleep coaching, nap detection, and body battery monitoring.
    • Integrated speaker and microphone for taking calls and accessing phone voice assistants.

    What customers dislike about Garmin Venu 3S?

    • High price point compared to other fitness trackers and entry-level smartwatches.
    • Steeper learning curve for setup and customisation compared to more 'plug-and-play' options like the Apple Watch.
    • Inconsistent sleep tracking accuracy for some users, occasionally missing wake-up times.
    • No onboard LTE option, requiring a nearby smartphone for calls and texts.
    • Limited third-party app selection compared to Wear OS or watchOS ecosystems.

    Expert reviews

    I
    independent.co.uk
    29/09/2023
    Summary of the review
    Garmin Venu 3 review: We test the smartwatch designed to monitor all areas of health
    T
    techradar.com
    16/10/2023
    Summary of the review
    Garmin Venu 3 review
    W
    womanandhome.com
    26/07/2024
    Summary of the review
    Garmin Venu 3 review: Might just be the perfect tracker
    D
    dcrainmaker.com
    30/08/2023
    Summary of the review
    Garmin Venu 3 In-Depth Review: More Sleep Analytics, Power Meter Support, and More
    Z
    zdnet.com
    27/02/2026
    Summary of the review
    This Garmin smartwatch convinced my daughter to switch over from Fitbit
    F
    femmecyclist.com
    29/03/2024
    Summary of the review
    Garmin Venu 3/3S Review - Femme Cyclist
    T
    telegraph.co.uk
    24/03/2025
    Summary of the review
    Garmin Venu 3S review: is this the best fitness tracker for most athletes?
    F
    fitness-tracker-test.info
    27/08/2023
    Summary of the review
    Garmin Venu 3 / 3S – Everything you need to know
    (Translated)Show original
    C
    computerbild.de
    04/08/2025
    Summary of the review
    Garmin Venu 3(S) Review: A Sports Watch with Unique Features
    (Translated)Show original
    T
    test.de
    14/11/2025
    Summary of the review
    Garmin Venu 3S Review - Stiftung Warentest
    (Translated)Show original
    C
    ciclista.net
    02/11/2025
    Summary of the review
    Garmin Venu 3S Review: One Year with the Sport Smartwatch
    (Translated)Show original
    C
    capital.fr
    12/07/2024
    Summary of the review
    Garmin Venu 3 Review: Can This Sports Watch Rival the Smartwatch Giants?
    (Translated)Show original
    L
    lesnumeriques.com
    30/08/2023
    Summary of the review
    Garmin Venu 3 and 3S watches: longer battery life and wheelchair mode
    (Translated)Show original
    M
    montre-cardio-gps.fr
    20/10/2023
    Summary of the review
    Garmin Venu 3 Review: Moving Upmarket with More to Offer
    (Translated)Show original
    Z
    zdnet.fr
    25/04/2024
    Summary of the review
    Garmin Venu 3 Review: It Convinced My Daughter to Ditch Her Fitbit
    (Translated)Show original
    T
    test-achats.be
    27/02/2026
    Summary of the review
    Garmin Venu 3S (010-02785-00) Review - Testachats
    (Translated)Show original
    W
    www2.u-trail.com
    04/05/2025
    Summary of the review
    The Garmin Venu 3S is the best watch for sports. Further analysis confirms its advanced capabilities and high-end positioning.
    (Translated)Show original
    L
    lesnumeriques.com
    20/05/2024
    Summary of the review
    Garmin Venu 3S Review: Compact, more connected, and as sporty as ever
    (Translated)Show original
    E
    es.root-nation.com
    12/02/2026
    Summary of the review
    Garmin Venu 3 Smartwatch Review - Root-Nation.com
    (Translated)Show original
    C
    correrunamaraton.com
    26/09/2023
    Summary of the review
    Garmin Venu 3 Review: AMOLED Display and a Deep Focus on Sleep
    (Translated)Show original
    H
    hardloopzone.nl
    18/01/2026
    Summary of the review
    Garmin Venu 3 Review 2026 (including 3S details)
    (Translated)Show original
    I
    id.nl
    19/11/2023
    Summary of the review
    Garmin Venu 3 and Garmin Vivoactive 5 Review - For 'Everyday' People
    (Translated)Show original
    G
    gps.nl
    30/08/2026
    Summary of the review
    Garmin Venu 3S soft gold french gray with leather band - Specifications
    (Translated)Show original
    T
    test-aankoop.be
    Onbekend
    Summary of the review
    Garmin Venu 3 (010-02784-00 or 010-02784-01) - Test Purchase Review
    (Translated)Show original
    H
    hrdlpn.nl
    18/01/2026
    Summary of the review
    Garmin Venu 3 Review 2026 - HRDLPN.nl
    (Translated)Show original

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