Garmin fitness watches can cost more than $1,000, but several capable models are currently available for less than $300. The Garmin Vivoactive 5 and Forerunner 165 are each discounted to around $200, while the older Venu 3 is on sale for $299. These watches offer features ranging from sleep and stress tracking to detailed running metrics and ECG-capable heart-rate monitoring.
For more wearable recommendations, check out our guides to Garmin watches, smartwatches, smart rings, and sleep trackers.
Love WIRED? Add us as a preferred source on Google to see more of our coverage.
Garmin Vivoactive 5 for $198 ($102 off)
The Vivoactive 5 is a strong first Garmin watch and is currently 34 percent off. Although it is an older model that launched in 2023, it includes many of Garmin’s core fitness and health features, including detailed fitness metrics, Body Battery—an estimate of your energy throughout the day—sleep coaching, and stress tracking. It is also smaller, lighter, and somewhat sleeker than Garmin’s outdoor-focused watches.
Garmin Forerunner 165 for $197 ($53 off)
The Forerunner 165 is a compelling value for runners who are new to Garmin watches. It has a bright, colorful touchscreen and Garmin’s traditional five-button control layout, with three buttons on the left side and two on the right. The physical buttons make the watch easier to operate while running outdoors, including when wearing gloves.
Garmin rates the battery life at up to 11 days. The watch also includes detailed running and training features, such as running data, Garmin training plans, daily recommended workouts, and training-effectiveness measurements based on aerobic and anaerobic load.
Garmin Venu 3 for $299 ($151 off)
The Venu 3 is another 2023 model included in the sale. It can be thought of as a more polished version of the Vivoactive, with a stainless-steel bezel that gives the watch a more refined appearance. It also has a built-in speaker and microphone for taking calls from your wrist.
Despite its age, the Venu 3 includes Garmin’s Elevate 5 heart-rate sensor, which is designed to provide more accurate data, along with an ECG sensor.
Power up with unlimited access to WIRED. Get in-depth reporting and subscriber-only content. Subscribe now.
Source: www.wired.com