I agree with venu and vivoactive, but the forerunner(especially 955) has many differences. I fell the 955 and the fenix should be one with having a plastic option
@@DylanTK for me the fenix/epix series is a combination between the Venu and Forerunner Series. These both a subsets of the epix/fenix. Forerunner with a sports Focus (2xx Light Version) and venu/va with a smartwatch/health Focus (vivoactive as a Light Version). A combination between the VA and FR2xx as a fenix/epix-light would be great on the other hand.
Please make an in depth comparison between venu 3 vs vivoactive 5, it would be super helpful for people deciding between the 2 watches! I think another good Garmin to compare to both is the Instinct 2, besides the different screen type it has similar features and is priced in the middle of the vivoactive and venu.
I've had a vivoactive 4 for years now and love it. The loss of the altimeter stinks but realistically it only tracked stairs for me and that's not something that's a concern in my house full of stairs. I'm the person who needs a "casual" fitness watch and this fits that pretty well. I'm very happy with my vivoactive 4 and will likely ask for the vivoactive 5 for Christmas.
My 4 died after a brief trip into the sea last week. Beyond annoyed but the timing works for a 5 upgrade - though yeah, the loss of the barometer is baffling and only discovered by me an hour ago after it turned up. I just didn't think they'd be removing features like that within a range.
This watch seems like amazing value and a great choice for the more casually gym-go'er/runner/moderately active person, who thinks the price of the venu 3 is kinda steep, I like it! great review, thanks!
Yes absolutely. I stumbled on this watch and I am considering it more and more, and may in the end not get an Apple watch as I was supposed to initially.
As discussed the other day on the Instinct 2 series: Eventually Garmin will realize they're just making things messy and potentially killing their own products with that many confusing watch series models and "unpredictable" features releases.
yep, they should stop wasting time and effort on so many different models and focus on a couple models with all the features combined. They would be king in the sport/smart watch sector, especially as Apple just can't rival the battery life.
I went deep with all kinds of reviews. I basically figured you have to pick a price range you are comfortable with first. Lots of the 500+ are just full of stuff you might not need. Personally I found the 255 which is $300 to $350 has all I need. Just think about what you need, not only what is on it. If you don't need it, get a lower model. You should pay for what you need.
Basically it's the same, though it looks a tad less expensive, has 3 days less battery life, no floors count and you can't speak with it like you're on the phone. Oh, and it's something like 150$ dollars less than the Venu 3. Now you can pick which one you fancy.
The larger Venu has a 1.4” screen. That’s the most significant difference for the typical Vivoactive/Venu user. The lack of altimetry in the Vivoactive makes it a non-starter for me. A shame, as all the previous generations had it. But if that’s not important, the VA5 is better than the Venu 1, cheaper and has a more vivid 1.2” screen , the same size as the original Venu.
My Vivoactive 4 has been steady and reliable, but I like these upgrades and the price works. I would really like the Venu 3 for ECG and ability to take calls.
Same. Was excited about the Vivo 5 until heading about the lack of altimeter. As a cyclist and mountain biker, altimeter was really important. I'll hold on to my Vivo 4 until it croaks then look elsewhere, I guess.
I understand Garmin wants a wacth at this price point and this feature set. But isn't this the Venu Sq's spot? In my mind that was the baby Venu. Garmin needs to consolidate all these different models. I work at a retail store and it's confusing for people wanting to buy their first watch and complicated for the person selling it. People will stand literally for an hour trying to figure out what they want or not even buy a Garmin at all. I think Coros is doing a much better job at this.
I have a Vivoactive 4 and was looking to upgrade. It's really disappointing they removed the altimeter, it's basically makes tracking skiing/snowboarding useless and also no mic like the new Venu
@@moritztweber That's the plan now just disappointing to see features removed from the Vivoactive. I believe the 4 was $350 now the "replacement" is $450
@@moritztweberI don't need my watch to be a Bluetooth speaker when my phone can't be more than a couple of meters away. Also would have liked the VA line to stay on MIP, like Fenix vs. Epics. But the barometer is a feature that already was there
Yeah. Where I am at, they are selling the Venu 2 for like 319€, while the Vivoactive 5 isn't even available yet and will cost 299€...Unless the price drops to like 249€, you are better of with Venu 2 while stock still lasts...
Agree. Garmin just swimming in their sea of watch models. Got tired of deciding on the next upgrade with Garmin and just switched to Pace 3 myself, just keep it simple.
Basically a Venu 2 with Venu 3 software unlocked (HRV, nap detection, mornig reports, etc) but with an aluminum bezel and one size only. They should just have updated the Venu 2 software. Disappointed with Garmin's exasperated fragmentation of their offer.
17:35, yeah, same think im looking for a watch and is very hard to learn what doing all models to choose the best one for your pocket. Finally im stoped between: Venu 2 Plus, Forerunner 265, Vivoactive 5, Instinct 2 Solar and i still learn which is the best for me. But anyway any Garmin watches is good.
I've got a long history of Garmin watches, and the Vivoactive/Venu bracket is where I pitched my camp some years ago. I still have a Vivoactive HR, a Vivoactive 3, a Venu and a Venu 2+. I'll probably pick up the Venu 3 in a month or two. I kind of got the parallel marketing of the MIP VA4 and the amoled Venu 2/2+; it echoed the relationship between the Fenix and Epix, and the FR255/265, and 955/965. But it's getting a bit ridiculous. I agree that Garmin needs a watch at the $299 point. They could have taken the opportunity to merge and rebrand the Vivoactive, Venu and Forerunner lines into a single product tree with SKUs at 199, 299, 399, 499 and 599, with clear and logical distinctions between the products and an aspirational route to upgrade. Instead, this is a mess!
As a current owner of a VA4, neither is the successor I was looking for. I'd basically like a FR255 with touch. Will stay on my VA4 for as long as it holds up....
I disagree. The Forerunner clearly is aimed at runners that want to prepare for competitions while venu and VA are for more casual users that want SmartWatch features
Couldn’t agree with you more. Garmin needs to streamline their watch models because trying to tell my customers why this watch is basically a Venu but cheaper and why is it cheaper is just so confusing for them and frankly for myself also.
I don't understand why Garmin decides to compartmentalize their watch development teams. It is frustrating when these watches get featured the $1000 watches don't get even though the hardware supports it
I got this watch for Xmas I love it is great comfortable I've had on 4days straight8 only took off for 5mins it's got so many great features on it I would recommend this watch for sure especially if your not tech savvy it's easy to use
Not the watch I hoped for. Stay on MIP. Newer sensors. Hiking and open water swimming. Maybe daily training recommendations. That's what I wanted as a current VA4 owner. The VA5 should have been the "Venu 3 lite" or "LR" (like Light & Round", matching SQ for square)
Wow, im suprised how much off the sleep tracking is compared to the other devices at 3.37 - Its something thats really important to me and since my fenix7x got the same sensor it would mean its also completely off - fall asleep and wake-up times, yikes! Is this a hardware or software related issue to Garmin watches?
Without the transflective mip display its a disappointment, thats what sold me on the active line, as someone who is actively outside and prefers that always on display.
Great review. Do you know if this watch has a replaceable battery because it it’s starting to seem like all of these smart watches are somewhat disposable which is frustrating.
Altimeter removal is a deal-breaker for me. Another exclusive feature I loved about the Vivoactive line was the Transflective memory-in-pixel display. It allowed for an always on display that was perfectly visible even without a backlight in normal lit rooms and daylight. It gave the feel of a traditional watch where you could glance at it and read information without it needing change states. Also the increased battery life is a huge plus. I don't need a high definition display on my watch if it means losing those features. It's a fitness tracker first and foremost for me, and Garmin's initial appeal for me was the absence of gimmicky smart watch features I can do more easily with my smartphone in my pocket. I'm disappointed and will be looking at other lines from Garmin.
Looks like MIP is dead. So annoying. The AMOLED is great when you are playing with the watch, when it's new or if you are a reviewer, but I only look at my watch for the time (watch face) or when doing a work out. In both cases, MIP is superior, with lessor battery usage. For everything else, I use Garmin Connect.
I just bought the Vivoactive 5 because its one of the very few out on the market with a Wheelchair Mode. From what I've seen of other people with disabilities, Garmin's system is better than most of the competitors. I really hope that I can tweak the settings to match me, especially at this price point. For instance, my heart rate physiologically caps at 130, due to a damaged peripheral nervous system. I believe it can move with me to acknowledge that bit. It'll be interesting to see if it changes for energy expenditure accurately, seeing that most people don't have to bodily throw themselves out of bed. Your review has put some of my concerns to rest! Its nice to know that its as accurate as most other watches, or at least close enough to be effective. It took me a long while to finally decide to do this and only really to help monitor my general health. I don't expect perfection, just reminders and trackers. The music piece is actually a nice bonus as well.
I had a cardiac event a few months ago (died 3 times) and picked up a cheap watch to monitor my heart rate but when I say cheap I mean $19 so I think it's time to step up my game and have been waffling between this watch and the Samsung 6 and the Garmin Venue 3. I'm 65 so taking that into account and my "event" my extreme days are gone and consist mainly of Pickleball, hikes, walks and bike rides so this might work just fine,,,, thoughts?
On another note, how do you like being married to a triathlon age group Super Star? (Besides just being able to attach watches to her for your little review business 😜)
Really nice review. I have the vivoactive 4 for a year now, but after 2 weeks in the sea, it starts to act a little weird, with sometimes very slow charging, to fast drop in charge levels, to funny screens on restart. I assume this is because of the extended exposure to sea water. Hence I wanted to change the watch and get a casual watch (with touchscreen, Garmin Pay and open water swimming) and Vivoactive 5 seems to fit pretty well. I could figure this out because of your review, so thats a lot!! You are also totally write about crazy amount of models, doing very similar stuff and with different pricing etc. Videos like this one helps in deciding 👍
Vivoactive 5 is better technologically but it has some features removed that he lists at 8:38. Forerunner 255 is not a good option if you want something significantly better than that VA4
Would you please do a comparison video of the Vivoactive 5 and the Venu 3? It would be nice to know which features I wouldn't have if I went with this watch over the Venu 3.
I wanted Vivoactive 5 to be released so much but no MIP no buy. Should buy FR255 instead as it seems to be last one with a good screen. Amoled is nice but I hated that most on my dead venu 1 - always screen powering up when driving cars, any movement of hand might have power it up. MIP is better for me and garmin is killing it :/.
Ok so I was ALL IN until you said NO ECG... Darn.. I am looking for more health tracking like BP, ECG, Pedometer, Sleep quality, HRV etc.... What are you folks out there using these days that you could recommend for men?
I own a vivoactive 4 and while investigating the venus 3 this new vivoactive series came out. I dont get the different lines as they look too similar 🤷🏻♂️
3:38 I love these sort of comparison. If we can get these over more days, gives us a great understanding of these devices!! Thanks for sharing that. I really found that table SUPER insightful.
Finally a VivoActive 5! I’ve had a VivoActive 3 and currently have a VivoActive 4, which is getting near the end of its life. Personally I would pay £450 for the Venu 3 and thought my next watch will probably be another VivoActive 4 or Apple Watch SE. The VivoActive 5 is priced well at £280 and could be my next watch. Only downside I can think of is, no altimeter sensor. Garmin have not long bought out challenges or expeditions, this watch would be no good for getting the climbing badges in Garmin Connect.
So I'm not the only person thinking Garmin has too many models. The VA5 in my eyes sits where the original Venu series 1 did but with a better screen, battery, and electronics. Roughly the same size, form factor, price, etc. That's a good thing for a lot of people. But some of simply want a the VA5 / Venu 3 series with the maps of the Forerunner 965. While the 965 is a great watch, it's complete overkill, too large, and expensive. Don't even get me started ont he Fenix, Epix, or especially the Instinct series.
What"s missing is a 965s. But that the mapping Feature is only it the high end watches makes sense from my point of view. It only makes sense with Most of the other Features of the 965/epix/fenix. You could only remove a few like Running dynamics but you would end up with a watch only 100€ under the 965 which nearly nobody would buy.
I so wish it had a barometer / altimeter. The only thing that almost made me upgrade to the Venu 3. But the price of the Vivoactive 5 is much more reasonable considering all the features it has.
I was 2-year long user of VA4 and was perfectly satisfied with it, but time came to upgrade, so i am now on Fenix 7 SS, which brings me to the question; any insider info on adding Sleep Coach and Nap feature to fenix 7 range?
Great review, thank you. My vivoactive 3 music broke this weak after going to the indoor pool and I got myself the vivoactive 5. I hope it can withstand the water better. I also think Garmin should merge some of their watches but keep the price range. I've been using the vivoactive line for years now and they are good and also afordable.
Thanks for this. Looking at getting the Vivoactive 5. I'm hearing some reports of crashing or freezing. Did you or your wife encounter anything like that? As to why this exists, I'm fairly new to Garmin watches (currently wearing a used Fenix 5x Plus that's on its last breath) but the functionality, look and price were all really attractive to me. I'm at the beginning of the use of these types of devices on my health journey and expect I'll upgrade in a few years. For now, this looks great to me.
The Vivoactive 5 is the slimmest Garmin watch, except for the fitness bands, so I bought one as addition to my FR965. As a ballroom dancer, I need something to wear under a tailcoat. I formerly had the Polar Ignite series (9,5mm), but after switching to Garmin I needed something similar and with 11,1mm, the VA5 is as close as one could get. As much as I love the Garmin ecosystem, not everyone needs extreme endurance in bulky watches. I would luckily trade half of the battery time for a watch
Clearly the Venu 3, but it's hard to see all differences in a good overview. It has a more modern sensor, higher quality materials and smaller bezels, which might be the most obvious changes. Yet, I'm not certain if that justifies paying more than 400 Euro.
Would people pay £220 for the vivoactive 5 or pay £100 for a used well looked after vivoactive 4s...its the position I am in right now ....many thanks fm uk.
Yesterday I received Suunto Vertical bought for 320 E. Great build quality watch. Today Amazon made me thinking as I reserved this Garmin for 225 E. Would you guys downgrade to Garmin model and save 95E? I know they are two completely different watches. I love sapphire glass and stainless steal of the Suunto. On the other hand I would love to have Garmin soft. Their functions and HR sensors are just much better.
I'm interested in buying a Garmin sport/smartwatch. I exercise daily, do crossfit 3 times a week, I run regularly and like to go surfing. Anyone have an idea which Garmin would suit me best? I also like to keep the design elegant on my wrist. Thanks !!
Man i wish they didnt make the watch face smaller. My fat fingers will struggle. The vivoacrive for used to be my go to. But recently other smart watches have cought up with battery life and activity tracking.
I'm sure Garmin has some business reason for having so many similar models, but to me anyway it would make more sense to have 3. One for the budget fitness enthusiasts, one for a mid-range price point, and then of course a premium price point. Would be a lot less intimidating and confusing for those looking into Garmin watches, while simultaneously giving everyone options for their budget/preferred feature set.
I’d love to know what your best watch recommendation would be for best bang for your buck? As someone who isn’t a runner but interested in other sports (climbing, skateboarding, snowboarding, hiking) which watch would be best suited that’s not at the highest price point?
Any tips for GPS not working any more on the vivoactive 4s? I’ve already tried updating, resetting and restarting both phone and watch. Also tried keeping the watching searching for gps.
I decided yes, I'll get a Garmin, thought it would be easier once that was decided, but there is too much to think about. Tho I love the purple, so might just opt for that
I'm a 60 year old. One 10k a month, 4 walks a week non athletic person. I'm not splashing cash on the highest models. This is ideal. Definitely a market for the less athletic user.
Their lifestyle line up is confusing - should just kill off the Venu. Their runner line up is more simple. The hiking line up - merge the Epix and Fenix
As a newcomer to the wearable space I am also a bit confused by all the similar options. But I think it's also good that garmin offers consumers a budget version of the Venu 3 to forego the more advanced heart sensor and altimeter of the Venu 3 and save a lot of money. At least they are not doing a Fitbit and just drop the altimeter alltogether in the lastest model at that price point like with the Sense 2. From what I have seen in reviews so far, you will only really notice a difference between the Elevate 5 sensor and the older gen for HIIT or resistance training where the 4th gen lags a bit on heart frequency spikes. However, those lags don't seem to be dramatic enough on average bpm to really be a concern for an amateur and anyone serious enough to care about accuracy down a few bpm is just using a chest belt, no? I like to go bouldering so the altimeter of the Venu 3 would come in quite handy but on the other hand I think I don't want to wear a >350€ watch on my wrist for bouldering anyway...
Can someone tell me if the vivoactive 5 is water proof and flour proof. I'm a pizza chef and wondering if I can where it while getting covered in flour etc and am I able to swim with it. Any help would be appreciated. Thanks
Hello, can you please tell me if the watch shows resting calories? Also, does it calculate how many calories have been burned by monitoring heart rate or by counting footsteps? Thank you!
Can you please help me. I've been looking for months for an entry-level fitness, smartwatch. This watch appeals to me but as you say, there is so much to choose from.
I agree thay all those different watches are very confusing for customers. But also for Garmin. As they roll out updates to the watches, i noticed that they specs on the website are not updated timely or at all. For example, I have a Instinct 2s Solar which has Garmin pay on it, but last time i checked the website specs said it did not. A shame if that would be a deal breaker for someone.
Garmin needs to just merge Venu, Vivoactive, and Forerunner at this point. Wayyyyy too many similarities.
Agree
I agree with venu and vivoactive, but the forerunner(especially 955) has many differences. I fell the 955 and the fenix should be one with having a plastic option
I agree in terms of say FR265/Venu 3/VA5. Those three should all just be combined.
@@DylanTK for me the fenix/epix series is a combination between the Venu and Forerunner Series. These both a subsets of the epix/fenix. Forerunner with a sports Focus (2xx Light Version) and venu/va with a smartwatch/health Focus (vivoactive as a Light Version). A combination between the VA and FR2xx as a fenix/epix-light would be great on the other hand.
So, basically, it’s a round Venu SQ, that renews the Vivoactive trademark.
Please make an in depth comparison between venu 3 vs vivoactive 5, it would be super helpful for people deciding between the 2 watches! I think another good Garmin to compare to both is the Instinct 2, besides the different screen type it has similar features and is priced in the middle of the vivoactive and venu.
Garmin is absolutely batshit crazy. Their entire "product management" team should be fired.
I've had a vivoactive 4 for years now and love it. The loss of the altimeter stinks but realistically it only tracked stairs for me and that's not something that's a concern in my house full of stairs. I'm the person who needs a "casual" fitness watch and this fits that pretty well. I'm very happy with my vivoactive 4 and will likely ask for the vivoactive 5 for Christmas.
My 4 died after a brief trip into the sea last week. Beyond annoyed but the timing works for a 5 upgrade - though yeah, the loss of the barometer is baffling and only discovered by me an hour ago after it turned up. I just didn't think they'd be removing features like that within a range.
This watch seems like amazing value and a great choice for the more casually gym-go'er/runner/moderately active person, who thinks the price of the venu 3 is kinda steep, I like it! great review, thanks!
Yes absolutely. I stumbled on this watch and I am considering it more and more, and may in the end not get an Apple watch as I was supposed to initially.
The sleep coach and nap features are quite cool. I hope that these new widgets will be updated on the the first edition Epix Gen2 or Fenix 7 models.
As discussed the other day on the Instinct 2 series:
Eventually Garmin will realize they're just making things messy and potentially killing their own products with that many confusing watch series models and "unpredictable" features releases.
yep, they should stop wasting time and effort on so many different models and focus on a couple models with all the features combined. They would be king in the sport/smart watch sector, especially as Apple just can't rival the battery life.
Now we need comparison to Venu 3 please
As I’m totally confused how garmin releases watches and which one to get right now
and fenix 5 plus
I went deep with all kinds of reviews. I basically figured you have to pick a price range you are comfortable with first. Lots of the 500+ are just full of stuff you might not need. Personally I found the 255 which is $300 to $350 has all I need. Just think about what you need, not only what is on it. If you don't need it, get a lower model. You should pay for what you need.
Basically it's the same, though it looks a tad less expensive, has 3 days less battery life, no floors count and you can't speak with it like you're on the phone. Oh, and it's something like 150$ dollars less than the Venu 3. Now you can pick which one you fancy.
The larger Venu has a 1.4” screen. That’s the most significant difference for the typical Vivoactive/Venu user. The lack of altimetry in the Vivoactive makes it a non-starter for me. A shame, as all the previous generations had it. But if that’s not important, the VA5 is better than the Venu 1, cheaper and has a more vivid 1.2” screen , the same size as the original Venu.
My Vivoactive 4 has been steady and reliable, but I like these upgrades and the price works. I would really like the Venu 3 for ECG and ability to take calls.
So disappointed they removed Stairs. I feel like I need to stick with the Vivoactive 4 for this reason. Thanks for all of the great information!
Same. Was excited about the Vivo 5 until heading about the lack of altimeter. As a cyclist and mountain biker, altimeter was really important. I'll hold on to my Vivo 4 until it croaks then look elsewhere, I guess.
because of this downgrade I got 955 after vivoactive 4
I understand Garmin wants a wacth at this price point and this feature set. But isn't this the Venu Sq's spot? In my mind that was the baby Venu. Garmin needs to consolidate all these different models. I work at a retail store and it's confusing for people wanting to buy their first watch and complicated for the person selling it. People will stand literally for an hour trying to figure out what they want or not even buy a Garmin at all. I think Coros is doing a much better job at this.
I have a Vivoactive 4 and was looking to upgrade. It's really disappointing they removed the altimeter, it's basically makes tracking skiing/snowboarding useless and also no mic like the new Venu
why not buy a venu3 if you want all of its features?
@@moritztweber That's the plan now just disappointing to see features removed from the Vivoactive. I believe the 4 was $350 now the "replacement" is $450
@@tchomicz1992 the Barometer, i understand. I'm disappointed for that too, but the mic etc on the other hand...
@@tchomicz1992 the Vivoactive 4 was indeed a very good allrounder.
@@moritztweberI don't need my watch to be a Bluetooth speaker when my phone can't be more than a couple of meters away. Also would have liked the VA line to stay on MIP, like Fenix vs. Epics. But the barometer is a feature that already was there
They should have kept MIP for Vivoactive 5 and add solar. If you want a stripped down version of Venu 3 you can buy Venu 2.
Yeah. Where I am at, they are selling the Venu 2 for like 319€, while the Vivoactive 5 isn't even available yet and will cost 299€...Unless the price drops to like 249€, you are better of with Venu 2 while stock still lasts...
Agree. Garmin just swimming in their sea of watch models. Got tired of deciding on the next upgrade with Garmin and just switched to Pace 3 myself, just keep it simple.
Basically a Venu 2 with Venu 3 software unlocked (HRV, nap detection, mornig reports, etc) but with an aluminum bezel and one size only. They should just have updated the Venu 2 software. Disappointed with Garmin's exasperated fragmentation of their offer.
You sleep 5:30 hours?? You batter start taking your magnesium threonate
17:35, yeah, same think im looking for a watch and is very hard to learn what doing all models to choose the best one for your pocket. Finally im stoped between: Venu 2 Plus, Forerunner 265, Vivoactive 5, Instinct 2 Solar and i still learn which is the best for me. But anyway any Garmin watches is good.
I've got a long history of Garmin watches, and the Vivoactive/Venu bracket is where I pitched my camp some years ago. I still have a Vivoactive HR, a Vivoactive 3, a Venu and a Venu 2+. I'll probably pick up the Venu 3 in a month or two. I kind of got the parallel marketing of the MIP VA4 and the amoled Venu 2/2+; it echoed the relationship between the Fenix and Epix, and the FR255/265, and 955/965. But it's getting a bit ridiculous. I agree that Garmin needs a watch at the $299 point. They could have taken the opportunity to merge and rebrand the Vivoactive, Venu and Forerunner lines into a single product tree with SKUs at 199, 299, 399, 499 and 599, with clear and logical distinctions between the products and an aspirational route to upgrade. Instead, this is a mess!
As a current owner of a VA4, neither is the successor I was looking for. I'd basically like a FR255 with touch. Will stay on my VA4 for as long as it holds up....
Agree, I'm getting tired of Garmin´s model and premium price diversity.
I disagree. The Forerunner clearly is aimed at runners that want to prepare for competitions while venu and VA are for more casual users that want SmartWatch features
Couldn’t agree with you more. Garmin needs to streamline their watch models because trying to tell my customers why this watch is basically a Venu but cheaper and why is it cheaper is just so confusing for them and frankly for myself also.
I don't understand why Garmin decides to compartmentalize their watch development teams. It is frustrating when these watches get featured the $1000 watches don't get even though the hardware supports it
ugh... Removed barometric altimeter...Removed floors counted metric...
Completely agree on the final assessment.. Garmin has a confusing range of watchs and feature sets.
I got this watch for Xmas I love it is great comfortable I've had on 4days straight8 only took off for 5mins it's got so many great features on it I would recommend this watch for sure especially if your not tech savvy it's easy to use
Do you still recommend the watch?
Not the watch I hoped for. Stay on MIP. Newer sensors. Hiking and open water swimming. Maybe daily training recommendations. That's what I wanted as a current VA4 owner.
The VA5 should have been the "Venu 3 lite" or "LR" (like Light & Round", matching SQ for square)
Wow, im suprised how much off the sleep tracking is compared to the other devices at 3.37 - Its something thats really important to me and since my fenix7x got the same sensor it would mean its also completely off - fall asleep and wake-up times, yikes!
Is this a hardware or software related issue to Garmin watches?
One would think software
Without the transflective mip display its a disappointment, thats what sold me on the active line, as someone who is actively outside and prefers that always on display.
Great review. Do you know if this watch has a replaceable battery because it it’s starting to seem like all of these smart watches are somewhat disposable which is frustrating.
Is the nap detection automatic or do I need to set it? It seems to be not working automatically for me when I took a nap 😢
How is "Gaming" an available sport to track... while hockey, basketball, football, and soccer are not?
I need a couch potato fitness watch.
😂
Very surprising that a sports watch like this doesn't have sapphire crystal glass. Gorilla glass 3 gets scratched SO easily.
Why doesn't the Fenix 7x SS have the Sleep Coach?
Turn the always on display off! Since it is an amoled display now, you will suffer in-burns in your watch screen :(
Altimeter removal is a deal-breaker for me. Another exclusive feature I loved about the Vivoactive line was the Transflective memory-in-pixel display. It allowed for an always on display that was perfectly visible even without a backlight in normal lit rooms and daylight. It gave the feel of a traditional watch where you could glance at it and read information without it needing change states. Also the increased battery life is a huge plus. I don't need a high definition display on my watch if it means losing those features. It's a fitness tracker first and foremost for me, and Garmin's initial appeal for me was the absence of gimmicky smart watch features I can do more easily with my smartphone in my pocket. I'm disappointed and will be looking at other lines from Garmin.
What did you end up with??
Looks like MIP is dead. So annoying. The AMOLED is great when you are playing with the watch, when it's new or if you are a reviewer, but I only look at my watch for the time (watch face) or when doing a work out. In both cases, MIP is superior, with lessor battery usage. For everything else, I use Garmin Connect.
MIP is never superior lol
@@petervansan1054 Yeah, that's why AMOLED does not have a true always on mode, and needs the backlight to constantly come on, even in sunlight.
Great review, thanks! Disappointed they last the altimeter for stair tracking.
I just bought the Vivoactive 5 because its one of the very few out on the market with a Wheelchair Mode. From what I've seen of other people with disabilities, Garmin's system is better than most of the competitors. I really hope that I can tweak the settings to match me, especially at this price point. For instance, my heart rate physiologically caps at 130, due to a damaged peripheral nervous system. I believe it can move with me to acknowledge that bit. It'll be interesting to see if it changes for energy expenditure accurately, seeing that most people don't have to bodily throw themselves out of bed.
Your review has put some of my concerns to rest! Its nice to know that its as accurate as most other watches, or at least close enough to be effective. It took me a long while to finally decide to do this and only really to help monitor my general health. I don't expect perfection, just reminders and trackers. The music piece is actually a nice bonus as well.
Smells like a venu 2 without Barometer. But venu 2 is 20-40 € cheaper. Even the same HR Sensor.
No barometer is a shame
Not sure why they haven't added the call and text features to the thousand dollar Epix2 line-up. Would be a killer watch.
Very informative, what do you and your wife take for energy? Those exercise examples are next level, I would love to have that much energy
I had a cardiac event a few months ago (died 3 times) and picked up a cheap watch to monitor my heart rate but when I say cheap I mean $19 so I think it's time to step up my game and have been waffling between this watch and the Samsung 6 and the Garmin Venue 3. I'm 65 so taking that into account and my "event" my extreme days are gone and consist mainly of Pickleball, hikes, walks and bike rides so this might work just fine,,,, thoughts?
On another note, how do you like being married to a triathlon age group Super Star? (Besides just being able to attach watches to her for your little review business 😜)
Really nice review. I have the vivoactive 4 for a year now, but after 2 weeks in the sea, it starts to act a little weird, with sometimes very slow charging, to fast drop in charge levels, to funny screens on restart. I assume this is because of the extended exposure to sea water.
Hence I wanted to change the watch and get a casual watch (with touchscreen, Garmin Pay and open water swimming) and Vivoactive 5 seems to fit pretty well. I could figure this out because of your review, so thats a lot!!
You are also totally write about crazy amount of models, doing very similar stuff and with different pricing etc. Videos like this one helps in deciding 👍
Shouldn't take it into salt water...
I had my vivoactive 4s for 5 years it quit working and garmin sent me a garmin vivoctive 5 free of charge.worth reaching out
What?! I have a 4 I love it. I was sad when it seemed they moved on. I was researching so many watches and settled on 255, now I'm curious.
Vivoactive 5 is better technologically but it has some features removed that he lists at 8:38. Forerunner 255 is not a good option if you want something significantly better than that VA4
Would you please do a comparison video of the Vivoactive 5 and the Venu 3? It would be nice to know which features I wouldn't have if I went with this watch over the Venu 3.
Which is better? Vivoactive 5 or Venu Sq 2 Music?
Thats my question too. Because I get the venusq2 music with some Headphones for around 200€ Here in Germany
I wanted Vivoactive 5 to be released so much but no MIP no buy. Should buy FR255 instead as it seems to be last one with a good screen. Amoled is nice but I hated that most on my dead venu 1 - always screen powering up when driving cars, any movement of hand might have power it up. MIP is better for me and garmin is killing it :/.
They use a much better Algorithm now. You should give it a try!
Amoled is beautiful
Ok so I was ALL IN until you said NO ECG... Darn.. I am looking for more health tracking like BP, ECG, Pedometer, Sleep quality, HRV etc.... What are you folks out there using these days that you could recommend for men?
Another day, another new Garmin watch 🤣
I own a vivoactive 4 and while investigating the venus 3 this new vivoactive series came out. I dont get the different lines as they look too similar 🤷🏻♂️
It seems this watch doesn't have the triathlon option, is that right?
Is there find my phone function?
It is the identical weight, size, and shape of the Garmin Swim 2....and the Vivoactive 5 has Open Water Swim. Cost $50 more than the ancient Swim 2.
Just spent £200 more on what is practically the same watch but says Venu 3 on the box. Thanks Garmin!
Hi, does vivoactive 5 have built in maps (such as Fénix series with the new forerunners) that can be used for navigation (eg. during cycling)?
3:38
I love these sort of comparison.
If we can get these over more days, gives us a great understanding of these devices!! Thanks for sharing that. I really found that table SUPER insightful.
I just hope the sleep stuff gets updated on the other watches like the 255/955
Finally a VivoActive 5!
I’ve had a VivoActive 3 and currently have a VivoActive 4, which is getting near the end of its life. Personally I would pay £450 for the Venu 3 and thought my next watch will probably be another VivoActive 4 or Apple Watch SE. The VivoActive 5 is priced well at £280 and could be my next watch.
Only downside I can think of is, no altimeter sensor. Garmin have not long bought out challenges or expeditions, this watch would be no good for getting the climbing badges in Garmin Connect.
When you swim lengths with this watch, does it show you how many you have done on the screen in real time?
So I'm not the only person thinking Garmin has too many models. The VA5 in my eyes sits where the original Venu series 1 did but with a better screen, battery, and electronics. Roughly the same size, form factor, price, etc. That's a good thing for a lot of people.
But some of simply want a the VA5 / Venu 3 series with the maps of the Forerunner 965. While the 965 is a great watch, it's complete overkill, too large, and expensive. Don't even get me started ont he Fenix, Epix, or especially the Instinct series.
What"s missing is a 965s. But that the mapping Feature is only it the high end watches makes sense from my point of view. It only makes sense with Most of the other Features of the 965/epix/fenix. You could only remove a few like Running dynamics but you would end up with a watch only 100€ under the 965 which nearly nobody would buy.
Is there an airplane mode? I want to sleep in but would like to be on airplane mode for that.
Does ist supports a automatic training detection?
And if so, is it working precisely?
Great conclusion, totally agree ! What a mess it has become ^^
I so wish it had a barometer / altimeter. The only thing that almost made me upgrade to the Venu 3. But the price of the Vivoactive 5 is much more reasonable considering all the features it has.
buy Vivoactive 4
I was 2-year long user of VA4 and was perfectly satisfied with it, but time came to upgrade, so i am now on Fenix 7 SS, which brings me to the question; any insider info on adding Sleep Coach and Nap feature to fenix 7 range?
Vivoactive 5 downgrade from 4
AMOLED does not make any sense on Vivoactive line. They should´ve kept MIP to separate it from Venu.
Great review, thank you. My vivoactive 3 music broke this weak after going to the indoor pool and I got myself the vivoactive 5. I hope it can withstand the water better.
I also think Garmin should merge some of their watches but keep the price range. I've been using the vivoactive line for years now and they are good and also afordable.
Need a detailed comparison with Coros Pace 3
Just have to compare it to the New Coros Pace
Pretty different markets/focus groups though.
Thanks for this. Looking at getting the Vivoactive 5. I'm hearing some reports of crashing or freezing. Did you or your wife encounter anything like that?
As to why this exists, I'm fairly new to Garmin watches (currently wearing a used Fenix 5x Plus that's on its last breath) but the functionality, look and price were all really attractive to me. I'm at the beginning of the use of these types of devices on my health journey and expect I'll upgrade in a few years. For now, this looks great to me.
The Vivoactive 5 is the slimmest Garmin watch, except for the fitness bands, so I bought one as addition to my FR965. As a ballroom dancer, I need something to wear under a tailcoat. I formerly had the Polar Ignite series (9,5mm), but after switching to Garmin I needed something similar and with 11,1mm, the VA5 is as close as one could get.
As much as I love the Garmin ecosystem, not everyone needs extreme endurance in bulky watches. I would luckily trade half of the battery time for a watch
Which one is better, vivoactive 5 & venu 3s? By the way, I am also confused why not use MIP screen
Clearly the Venu 3, but it's hard to see all differences in a good overview. It has a more modern sensor, higher quality materials and smaller bezels, which might be the most obvious changes. Yet, I'm not certain if that justifies paying more than 400 Euro.
Venu 3 is better. New HR sensor, altimeter and speaker/voice.
Would people pay £220 for the vivoactive 5 or pay £100 for a used well looked after vivoactive 4s...its the position I am in right now ....many thanks fm uk.
Yesterday I received Suunto Vertical bought for 320 E. Great build quality watch. Today Amazon made me thinking as I reserved this Garmin for 225 E. Would you guys downgrade to Garmin model and save 95E? I know they are two completely different watches. I love sapphire glass and stainless steal of the Suunto. On the other hand I would love to have Garmin soft. Their functions and HR sensors are just much better.
I'm interested in buying a Garmin sport/smartwatch. I exercise daily, do crossfit 3 times a week, I run regularly and like to go surfing. Anyone have an idea which Garmin would suit me best? I also like to keep the design elegant on my wrist. Thanks !!
Man i wish they didnt make the watch face smaller. My fat fingers will struggle. The vivoacrive for used to be my go to. But recently other smart watches have cought up with battery life and activity tracking.
Garmin tells lot of data and square displays are better for that than circular displays.
But Most peaople Do not like the Look of a square watch.
Wife and I have the Venu SQ 2. We don't have a problem with square? 😢
I'm sure Garmin has some business reason for having so many similar models, but to me anyway it would make more sense to have 3. One for the budget fitness enthusiasts, one for a mid-range price point, and then of course a premium price point. Would be a lot less intimidating and confusing for those looking into Garmin watches, while simultaneously giving everyone options for their budget/preferred feature set.
It just looks like each line up is maintained by individual team and they are competing against each other's within the same company.
I’d love to know what your best watch recommendation would be for best bang for your buck? As someone who isn’t a runner but interested in other sports (climbing, skateboarding, snowboarding, hiking) which watch would be best suited that’s not at the highest price point?
Any tips for GPS not working any more on the vivoactive 4s?
I’ve already tried updating, resetting and restarting both phone and watch. Also tried keeping the watching searching for gps.
Sir, with your experience would you choose vivoactive 5 or instinct 2in terms of features? Don't care about colorfull and touch seen.
I decided yes, I'll get a Garmin, thought it would be easier once that was decided, but there is too much to think about. Tho I love the purple, so might just opt for that
I'm a 60 year old. One 10k a month, 4 walks a week non athletic person. I'm not splashing cash on the highest models. This is ideal. Definitely a market for the less athletic user.
Their lifestyle line up is confusing - should just kill off the Venu. Their runner line up is more simple. The hiking line up - merge the Epix and Fenix
As a newcomer to the wearable space I am also a bit confused by all the similar options.
But I think it's also good that garmin offers consumers a budget version of the Venu 3 to forego the more advanced heart sensor and altimeter of the Venu 3 and save a lot of money. At least they are not doing a Fitbit and just drop the altimeter alltogether in the lastest model at that price point like with the Sense 2.
From what I have seen in reviews so far, you will only really notice a difference between the Elevate 5 sensor and the older gen for HIIT or resistance training where the 4th gen lags a bit on heart frequency spikes. However, those lags don't seem to be dramatic enough on average bpm to really be a concern for an amateur and anyone serious enough to care about accuracy down a few bpm is just using a chest belt, no?
I like to go bouldering so the altimeter of the Venu 3 would come in quite handy but on the other hand I think I don't want to wear a >350€ watch on my wrist for bouldering anyway...
Can someone tell me if the vivoactive 5 is water proof and flour proof. I'm a pizza chef and wondering if I can where it while getting covered in flour etc and am I able to swim with it. Any help would be appreciated. Thanks
Hello, can you please tell me if the watch shows resting calories? Also, does it calculate how many calories have been burned by monitoring heart rate or by counting footsteps? Thank you!
This watch is way better than Apple, Google, or Samsung smart watches.
Can you please help me. I've been looking for months for an entry-level fitness, smartwatch. This watch appeals to me but as you say, there is so much to choose from.
Hey..How did you transfer gps track to PC? And how to put location on vivoactive and then navigate thoruh watch to that point? :)
As an ambulatory wheelchair user, I am switching to the Vivoactive 5.
Would the epix (gen 2) be a better purchase now in 2024 even though the epix is 2 years old?
Is Garmin pay the same as android pay . I have a Google pixel phone the watch must have nfc I presume
How does it compare in terms of accuracy in sleeptracking and stressmeasuring with the fitbit sense 2?
Really wish I could also connect this to my bike's power meter.
Giving it as many features as possible and a fancy new screen and yet taking the L on ECG
What are they thinking
I agree thay all those different watches are very confusing for customers. But also for Garmin. As they roll out updates to the watches, i noticed that they specs on the website are not updated timely or at all. For example, I have a Instinct 2s Solar which has Garmin pay on it, but last time i checked the website specs said it did not. A shame if that would be a deal breaker for someone.
if you go hiking with this watch, can you track how far up youve went? i mean if it doesnt have an altimeter?
Vivoactive 5 or galaxywatch 6? Goshhhhh... so hard to decide