Great review. I have had my Venu for a week now. I don't know what I would do without it now. It has got me to be more active in every way. Great watch even if I'm 80 years old. I still love my gadgets, like my Venu 3. Very comfortable and easy to use. 😊
I had my Venu 3 for about 4 days now, it´s amazing in every way, everything you want from a smartwatch and a training watch, its down to 74% battery after 4 days of use, very good
Your a funny dude u know.. It's just bad with a very laggy interface.. How can u say it's good? Compared to a Apple watch/Samsung 5 or 6 and Huawei GT4/4 Pro this Venu 3 watch feels very cheap lol..
Yes!! I have two sitting in a drawer and one on my wrist, I want to upgrade but I can’t justify a 4th Garmin 🫣 - especially when the other 3 still work.
It wouldn't make sense because the pace of the market is constantly evolving so the chips and components they use devalue very fast once the next watch with better components comes up
Great review mate and thank you. I just bought one for my wife and gave it to her a few minutes ago. Hopefully enough brownie points to get me through the day (it is late afternoon after all)! Seriously - many thanks and cheers and Happy New Year from Sydney - Dave
Nice shot; popup on watch recommending doing some yoga, meditation etc. then a burger and chips come into view! On the watch. It looks great but that price tag is eyewatering. And the same £449 in UK! Ouch.
Thanks for your review. I am the owner of a now, non-functioning VivoActive 4 because on a whim, I decided to take an introductory scuba diving lesson at Hastings Reef (Northern part of the Great Barrier Reef). It was well after we submerged to more than 25 feet did I realize that my tried, true, and trusty friend (my Vivoactive 4), was most likely not designed for this sport. And, yes, indeed, it no longer functions. I'm middle-aged. I'm not a performance athlete. I exercise 3-5 times a week. I use the Garmin watches to keep track of my over health. My workouts include strength, cardio, yoga, swimming, and walking. I no longer can run do to hip issues.. I need to replace my watch. I'm not impressed that the next generation of VivoActive doesn't have the altitude component (steps, inclinces, etc). So, I'm looking at the Venu series. Based on your reviews, this seems to be the most appropriate watch for me and my lifestyle. I'd appreciate any more insight that you may have. Also, I'm scheduled to be certified in diving this February with my 16 year old son. So, the watch needs to be able to withstand another dive or two. :-) Thank you for your consideration!
As owner of a Venu 1 I can confirm that the watch and the Garmin ecosystem perform very well. There is a big risk with OLED screens though. After 2 years and 6 months I found myself with a screen that is practically unusable due to burn (dead pixels). Garmin refuses to replace the screen. The repair cost is more than half the original purchase price... I never activated the Always On Display and the watch did not suffer any damage.
Interesting, im 4 years into mine and while it has plenty of chips and scratches from rock climbing and automotive work, screen is still as beautiful as day one. I do have the screen on for the shortest duration possible at a lower brightness to keep the battery life going as much as possible.
Picked up the Venu 2 S for my wife last year, but was unaware at the time of how valuable the HRV metric is to understanding the body's training readiness. Am considering upgrading and selling the Venu 2 S, especially after your excellent review. Thanks for another informative video.
@@chriscotton4207same story:) I was watching it, read articles about release dates, expected it this early fall. But then suddenly 💥boom, I see the reviews by DC R. and DesFit guys. When did they manage to do that?😅
So great, thanks for this review, my Venu 3S comes today! also love that you are in the Netherlands, which is where I live, too! Thanks so much for this!
That was a very comprehensive and well documented presentation. My heart was set on the Venu 2 Plus since it first came out, but due to the lack of some basic features that I wanted, I looked elsewhere and ended up with an Amazfit with their well known by now, inconsistent and inaccurate HR sensors. A full refund is pending because of a screen fault that it developed fifteen months after the purchase. I was considering the new Huawei GT 4 Pro but wasn't so sure about it. And now I know why. This is the watch I want and this is going to be the next smartwatch on my wrist. Thanks D.C!
Added that point in another comment. I understand why the 265 has different features, but why does the 965 not have the new Venu features? Weird segmentation block there unless they add them later...
One thing that’s awesome about the venu 3 is the golf stat tracking. I’m looking to buy a Garmin watch as my Apple Watch has awful battery and lackluster features. I’ve been looking at the forerunner 256 and venu 3 and the venu 3 seems to do more well the forerunner does less but does them better (forerunner does not have the golf stat tracking)
Great review. Thank you. I would definitely buy Venu 3S for my wife :) Glad to know I did not buy 2S a month ago and hope for new unit to come in a few weeks.
Damn, I want a watch which just combines Venu 3 and Forerunner 265. Basically, a smart watch with 5 buttons which supports in-depth workout data (and their training readiness). Not sure what to wait for here.
For me, sleep tracking is a priority, so I'll be looking forward to The Quantified Scientist's analysis. Unfortunately, Garmin has always been near the bottom when it comes to sleep phase accuracy. Looks like a nice upgrade in lots of other areas though.
His videos are super useful anecdotally I've tried literally all the main brands and weirdly Fitbit was the most accurate.. I found it way more accurate than my Apple watch 7... But I hate Fitbits devices. Garmin's sleep tracking for me on my Fenix 7 and before that Vivomove has been so bad it's almost pointless. I've got a 2 year old that STILL wakes up once or twice a night... But I consistently get 80 to 90 scores. 🤣👍🏻
Wouldnt suprise me if QTS absolutely trash the Venu 3 as he has been doing with any Garmin device. Hes always been a Garmin-hater and is biased towards Apple products. He once scored Apples heart rate correlation value above 1.0 which is impossible - there is such a big difference between his test results and the results ray, desfit, chase the summit and fit Gear Hunter is getting that something is off. Truth is Garmins new sensor is catching up to Apples accuracy
@@mortenvinther8940Very true. The effort he is putting is very admirable. But it's just one sample size and something which is not very convincing to make a critical decision. But more similarities now with regard to the Samsung 6 series. Inaccuracies seem more consistent across many reviews.
I've always had fenix watches and just sold my 6x pro so not sure I might get this now as my upgrade instead of the epix 2. Great review and some nice details thanks. Good food for thought
Great review, as usual. Thanks to your and DesFit videos I made the leap and bought the Venu 2 S last year. So happy with it. I hope they will add the nap tracking to older models via an update as well, as I plan on using this watch till it completely gives up. :)
any info on the new features coming to older watches? like body battery details and nap tracking to forerunners 255/265 and 955/965… we’ve been wanting this for a long time hahahah
Always appreciate the thoroughness of the reviews. One thing I didn't hear you mention (you may have?) is that the Venu 2plus case has a metal back vs. the Venu 3 appears to have a plastic back. I really appreciate the metal back on the Venu 2 plus (perfect watch to wear to work and bike commuting and casual runs/hikes).
Is the new sleep tracking going to be updated to the Forerunners? If so, I am not sure why anyone would pick this over the Forerunner 265, to be honest. You need your phone next to you anyway to use the calling feature, so one might as well just use the phone directly.
My old school original 8mm thick Vivoactive had a 3 week battery life and now although tons more features, the battery life isn't great so we have to charge it more frequently. Do you know if this Venu 3 has the Qi wireless charging capability? Seems a shame that this watch (which includes the nice speaker and microphone for taking calls) costs $450 and a basic Apple Watch SE costs $250 and has the mic and speaker. I prefer Garmin's software and stats though.... Thanks for the incredible review as always!
Ray the hype leading up to the release talked about temperature. So, you didn't mention it so I assume not there now? Coming in the future? Thanks and great review as always!!
That's the problem with rumors...they aren't always true. I suspect the hardware/sensor is capable of it, but it's definitely not a feature enabled today.
Thanks for the review! Any info about the porting of the nap feature to other watches? I'm sure the flagships will get it, but Instinct2? F6 series? Thanks! (Also: There has been 2-3 releases of Venu since VA4, do you think the MIP display is discontinued in this segment?)
This will be my purchase once the battery on my Venu starts to struggle, if I manage to wait that long. Super happy with Venu 2 and I know I'll be even more so with the 3.
Venu is missing various running features, outdoor rec, and cycling features. It obviously has its own added benefits, but there's definitely some big differences.
Yup, that's a question for COROS. They decided not to send me one, and then their other CEO (they have two, this one in China) started a smear campaign against me. Happy to test it though once the unit I ordered comes in - just as I always do with real-world data and showing said data.
@@deusn323 Specifically, he was displeased at the COROS Heart Rate Sensor accuracy testing where a single test (out of the many both myself and wife did), showed it was slightly inaccurate. He went onto say I had purposefully worn it loose (a fun idea, but technically impossible with their strap design as it'd just slide down and flap around entirely). Nevermind that every other reviewer also showed minor inaccuracy issues too. I suspect he didn't like that I in that same review pointed out how inaccurate the COROS APEX 2 PRO optical HR sensor was, and that it kinda made for a good reason to buy the COROS HR sensor.
I was really starting to like Coros more and more but reading this made Coros go down a lot of notches as far as I am concerned. I hope it will not influence you in any way from doing the great work you do. As a lot of us sportspeople really appreciate your hard work and opinion!
Ray - been waiting patiently for your Suunto Race review and loved that one today and this one. But I’m so unsure where to go on BF!! I want accurate HRM and Sleep monitoring but don’t need to be smartwatched to bits or have to charge too regularly. All rooads led to Fenix 7, Venu 3 or Race - but with a budget (ish) and being a cyclist (getting old) not runner I then went to Venu 3, especially after seeing the sleep accuracy video by The Quantified Scientist. Hoping you agree, as I’ve flip flopped a lot?!! Thanks as ever.
Brilliant thanks. I recently bought an Edge 840 and love the fitness insights. I’m now trying to decide which Garmin wearable to use off the bike, as my Ultra doesn’t share data with Connect. I walk/hike but not sure which Garmin (there are so many) would suit. This could do the job perhaps or a Forrunner. Could I ask for any pointers please?
Same here -- my Edge does all I need when biking and I can't run (bad knees), but would be interested to track my (lack of) fitness as a whole. Venu3, FR265, Apple Watch?
Like you I mainly cycle and use an Edge 530 with an HRM strap. I recently bought a Venu 2 Plus to complement the data when I don’t ride. Only issue is now thinking if worth returning it for the Venu 3
For me one of the most important feature that is missing on Venu2 compared to Forerunner series is the ability to "resume-later". Does that feature exist on Venu3?
Yes, that is a great feature for hiking. Resume after the long pause at the summing or hut. My brother continually dismisses the 15 min prompts for activity stopping in paused mode.
@@KoRnholio8 Yes, so it is almost unusable for hiking. Years before, i switched from the Venu 1 to a forerunner 245 because this missing feature (at this time, hiking where not on the Venu). It seems that garmin thinks that only heavy Fenix users go to a hike and needs a break ;) I don´t understand it...
This is the problem with the Garmin line-up that it’s little details like resume-later that seem so trivial but would be a deal breaker if you actually use them. They give you hope that maybe you might not need to spend $800+ dollars on another Fenix and then there’s little gotcha’s like this to trip you up. Personally, resume later isn’t something I’d miss but I’m sure there’d be something else that I use regularly on my Fenix 6 that will be missing, I just haven’t worked out what yet!
Great review, the one thing I didn’t find in it though and would like to know is if there is any function in Venu 3 that shows fitness readiness and recommends workout for the day. Thanks
Is it fair to say that the Venu 3 is a better pick over the 265 for someone that does an equal mix of HIIT sprinting/weight lifting/cycling/walks ? It seems like its more of an all-rounder versus the 265 which is very running centric. The 5th gen HR monitor looks like a big upgrade for accurately tracking HR for HIIT hill sprints and weight lifting.
I’m always confused about the venu vs like the forerunner 265. My mom is a runner, I’m getting her a Garmin so she can sync her training peaks plan (she’s currently using an AW). Prior to this launch I figured the Forerunner 265 was the way to go, now with the Venu 3 I’m not sure which one. Seems like a lot of overlap
@@gabesalvador There is actually lots of useful running things on the Venus that Garmin leaves out like Training Load/Effect, PacePro, Course Navigation, Daily Suggested Workouts, Trail Running, Track mode, etc.
It has become a really annoying segmentation issue IMO. And so you'd think, well maybe the 965 combines the Venu specific features with the 265 right? Nope. So the Venu ultimately just has specific smart and health features not available on the other watches which is super weird. As said, basically, how much do running metrics matter. To me, I still prefer those, but I'd love to have the extra Venu features...
@@Trulstor, likely not because they need something to differentiate them; otherwise there wouldn't really be much point. I am however surprised that they haven't announced any plan to add those Venu software features to the more expensive FR965 (that's the confusing one for me).
I have had my vivoactive 3 since 2019 and I am looking at getting a new watch. I was initially looking at the vivoactive 5 but some things that you mentioned in there sees that the venu 3 is a better fit for me. I want the phoenix 7 but it's a bit too far out of my price range. One thing I have been noticing is that when I run under trees, my GPS does some weird things and says I'm running at 7min/km which is not true. This video is very helpful and I have enjoyed all the data comparisons from the same workouts.
Hi Ray, thanks for all the great vids! Do you think other watches besides the Venu series will get the Gaming profile too? Like the Forerunner 965 for instance or the Epix/Fenix series?
Thank you for the great surprise review really didn't see this one coming. Venu 2 got a pass from me mostly due to not supporting cycling power and was looking at Forerunner 255/265 instead. I wonder for Venu 3 does the extra power parameter like normalised power hence TSS at least got recorded after the activity is uploaded to Garmin Connect?
This is me. Let us know Ray! I'm surprised you don't think this is a watch with major updates. It's the first time garmin has PM support on a smart watch?
Great review. I currently have a Venu (bought in 2021) the display has gone a bit wacky. I am trying to choose between the Vivoactive 5 or the venu 3S. I am a pool and open water swimmer and do the occasional bike ride and hikes. Thoughts?
Great review. Im curious about a couple of items. I have the old Garmin Venu 2 and I absolutely love it except for a couple of items. It does not play well with Iphones, and 2, the sensor for elevation is messed up. From what I have read the elevation is a common flaw on the Venu 2 due to where the sensor is located on the watch because it gets clogged with sweat/dirt/etc…. Do you know if this has changed? My Venu 2 will log me as climbing stairs or gaining elevation when I havent moved in hours. I have woke up to my watch giving me a notification that I hit my goal of 10 flights of stairs when I had been sleeping for 7-8 hours. Lol. Thank you sir and you are always the person I turn to for fitness watch reviews.
I just wish they would put full golf function on the venu devices! I have the first venu and it's the only thing I want. I would love solar but understand the fit would be tough with the size and screen.
I slept with my Epix 2 for a year, loved the morning report body batterie initially, but after a while, if you’re tired, it’s just like someone telling you in your face every day: “ you look like shit”. A limit for me of being monitored 24/7. You could get worried (not helping)
Thanks for this review. Great stuff. I have the Fenix 6 Pro Sapphire. I'd like to upgrade to a watch with the new display screen and touch. I'm looking at the Fenix 7 Pro but TBH it has a lot of features that I never used on the 6 so thinking I don't need the 7. However, I do hike a lot and wondering how the Venu really handles hiking. I rarely do backpacking but have. Garmin eTrex if I do that. Otherwise I use the HIIT and skiing trackers. So do you think I can get away with the Venu for day hiking (i.e. 10-15 miles) that can give me all the tracking, breadcrumbs, elevation, compass, etc?
Thx 😀👍 What is the difference between "Stress" and "HRV" ? And more important : Why the Forereunner 255,265 with the old Sensor have it but not the Venu 2/s ? Also if u could ask: Does the Venu3s also has ECG hardware ? But thats all pretty boring from a Health perspective. I now already bought a cheap iphone se2 and will order a Apple Watch 6.
They need to scrap the stress metric as it just adds confusing. Same for recovery time - it's recovery time for next (undefined by garmin) workout. Training Status and Stamina are other unnecessary poor guestimation metrics. Acute Training Load, Resting HR and HRV - These are the scientifically validated metrics that need to be focused on.
Like that HRV they added... wish Samsung would add that to the Galaxy watch... Pushing 60 and would like to keep and eye on that HRV... Thanks for the vid!
Thank you very much for this in depth review! I am a swimmer, but not a triathlete and looking mainly for swimming functions in pools - such as the Garmin Swim. Unfortunatley the swim is lacking in a lot of other features and I also like the Venu 3 a lot better in from of looks. --> Does the Garmin Venu 2 now also support creating and uploading trainings for swimming in the pool? The Venu 2 unfortunately is / was not compatible for that. Which is why opted out of buying it and am still searching...
I bought the Venu 2 and thought swimming was supported. I hopped into the sea and tried to find the Open water mode but there is none. So I ordered a Polar watch which is developed for athletes and not as a competition to Apple and Samsung watches.
Thanks, Ray! I'm hesitating between FR265 and Venu3 (S)... maybe you could make a comparison? This would be great! I've two questions about Venu3: - Does it have Training Readiness (like 265)? - Does it include Triatlon? Maybe someone can answer these. Thanks in advance!
Yes, please. I am in a similar situation and trying to decide between these 2 watches. I have always had a Forerunner but some of the extra smart watch features of the Venue are appealing. It is confusing figuring out what running specific feature I might be missing in the Venue vs the Forerunner. I detailed comparison would be really helpful.
Hi, are there any insides about possible release date for Venu 4? I want a new watch for my wife, but don't understand what to do, to buy Venu3 now or wait for Venu4?
Thanks for the review. How does this compare to the Forerunner 965? I'll be looking to use it mainly as a general health & fitness tracker and my main sports activity is cycling. Which of these 2 would you recommend?
Thanks Ray, I'm riding out a Venu (1), screen failing... this V3 seems compelling, I like the larger font too. My main disappointment with the V1 was Bluetooth connectivity to my Jabra earbuds; with the watch on my left wrist, my body would block the connection to the receiver in the right earbud causing music dropout. Switching wrists fixed it. To be fair Garmin had a disclaimer on compatible headphones, but a better/stronger BT signal certainly would help make the half meter connection from my wrist to ear more consistent. Any feedback? Also, any word from garmin on the screen lifespan/quality?
Funny, I have the Venu 1 and Jabra earbuds also. But I don't really use them together much because the Jabras have fit issues for me. Didn't notice any connection issues.
Garmin kindly sent me an out of warranty replacement for my VENU, I just got it and will test to see if the BT connectivity issues are still there.@@renaissancemaneric8019
Another awesome review, question, the bracelet attachment, I returned my Venue 2 plus because the band attachment kept releasing while I was wearing it. Is it the same design?
Great reveiw. Any reason why Garmin Venu 3 is not having the stainless steel back like Venu 2 Plus, which looks for robust. Instead it is going back to the old school plastic/fiber back like Venu 2 and Venu.
Its a pretty underrepresented reason: Weight and cost. Also Robustness is not that different in normal day usage, even as a Bricklayer ^^. For running and all other swinging arm sports ists pretty important that the watch is as light as it could be. Because the meassurement will get unprecise if the Watch whobles around. And wearing the Watch to tight also is bad for the sensors. For me i like that, its function over form but i respect that people want nice materials even if it isnt the best idea for the purpose.
@@residentCJ thanks for that but my point was bit different..If you see be it Venu or Venu Sq both models have same form factors with a fiber body at the back..my question why only Venu 2 plus got a steel back, even there Garmin might have thought the cost and weight factor, and they could have released it with a fiber back. So is it like Venu plus has some extra sensors or something for which only Venu Plus has that kind of build and not the older venus as well the very latest one, i.e Venu 3. Secondly do you think they are restricting these kind of a build with the Plus/Pro models only and in that case are we expecting a Venu 3 plus as well soon rather than later.
@@2385boris The main reason why venu2plus has metal backside is meassuring ecg, it needs metal on skin to electrically conductive. I dont know why they had to make the complete backside Metal. As Ray mentioned the "Hardware" of the Venu3 is capable of meassuring ecg. I never touched a venu3 , i dont know if the backside is (not) painted? metal. Or maybe they only have a small point on the backside thats metal. but fact is, IF it can meassure ecg with software update (i wouldnt count on it ^^) it has to have a bit metal on the backside. If they will deliver a software update i dont see the point of a venu 3 plus. But we live in inflation. Manufactureres reduce developement and increase product releases to make more money. I think when they bring ecg update for venu3 and the price drops 15% its ok. But mainly because theres no real competition on Android with this batterylife and App quality for Health metrics. Fitbit wants monthly payments for the most interesting metrics and huawei and samsung are not the precise in meassuring.
Great review. I have had my Venu for a week now. I don't know what I would do without it now. It has got me to be more active in every way. Great watch even if I'm 80 years old. I still love my gadgets, like my Venu 3. Very comfortable and easy to use. 😊
I had my Venu 3 for about 4 days now, it´s amazing in every way, everything you want from a smartwatch and a training watch, its down to 74% battery after 4 days of use, very good
does it have trail or hiking mode?
Your a funny dude u know.. It's just bad with a very laggy interface.. How can u say it's good? Compared to a Apple watch/Samsung 5 or 6 and Huawei GT4/4 Pro this Venu 3 watch feels very cheap lol..
@@Tha-King-Arthur i have had both galaxy watch 5 and apple watch 8 and the venu 3 is way better for my needs
@@Tha-King-Arthuryour also funny dude.
@@Tha-King-Arthurprobably because it has way more features then the apple watch and better battery life then all of those
You are my go-to reviewer every time a new Garmin Watch comes out. Cheers and wish you all the best !
Man I wish Garmin had a trade-in program! Great review!!
YES!😤😤
Instant purchase if they did
Yes!! I have two sitting in a drawer and one on my wrist, I want to upgrade but I can’t justify a 4th Garmin 🫣 - especially when the other 3 still work.
It wouldn't make sense because the pace of the market is constantly evolving so the chips and components they use devalue very fast once the next watch with better components comes up
@@denisea.9033 What 3 do you have?
You know you can trust the watch review from the man with 3 tan lines! Always be testing.
Great review mate and thank you. I just bought one for my wife and gave it to her a few minutes ago. Hopefully enough brownie points to get me through the day (it is late afternoon after all)!
Seriously - many thanks and cheers and Happy New Year from Sydney - Dave
That's a hell of a review. Thanks man!!
tempted to upgrade form the Venu to the 3, as adds some of the features I wanted before.
Nice shot; popup on watch recommending doing some yoga, meditation etc. then a burger and chips come into view!
On the watch. It looks great but that price tag is eyewatering. And the same £449 in UK! Ouch.
You're welcome. 🤣
I can’t believe that the UI looks 10x better than in top models that are 2x more expensive!! And it also have more features!
higher model with equivalent feature are probably on the way too
Garmin said it won't update the UI of the fenix and epix...
Thanks for your review. I am the owner of a now, non-functioning VivoActive 4 because on a whim, I decided to take an introductory scuba diving lesson at Hastings Reef (Northern part of the Great Barrier Reef). It was well after we submerged to more than 25 feet did I realize that my tried, true, and trusty friend (my Vivoactive 4), was most likely not designed for this sport. And, yes, indeed, it no longer functions. I'm middle-aged. I'm not a performance athlete. I exercise 3-5 times a week. I use the Garmin watches to keep track of my over health. My workouts include strength, cardio, yoga, swimming, and walking. I no longer can run do to hip issues.. I need to replace my watch. I'm not impressed that the next generation of VivoActive doesn't have the altitude component (steps, inclinces, etc). So, I'm looking at the Venu series. Based on your reviews, this seems to be the most appropriate watch for me and my lifestyle. I'd appreciate any more insight that you may have. Also, I'm scheduled to be certified in diving this February with my 16 year old son. So, the watch needs to be able to withstand another dive or two. :-) Thank you for your consideration!
LOL at 4:40 Love the review, as always, I rely on you to tell me all I need to know at first glance with any new Garmin device. Thank you!
As owner of a Venu 1 I can confirm that the watch and the Garmin ecosystem perform very well. There is a big risk with OLED screens though. After 2 years and 6 months I found myself with a screen that is practically unusable due to burn (dead pixels). Garmin refuses to replace the screen. The repair cost is more than half the original purchase price... I never activated the Always On Display and the watch did not suffer any damage.
Interesting, im 4 years into mine and while it has plenty of chips and scratches from rock climbing and automotive work, screen is still as beautiful as day one. I do have the screen on for the shortest duration possible at a lower brightness to keep the battery life going as much as possible.
So your screen is dead but the watch did not suffer any damage? How should one understand this?
Picked up the Venu 2 S for my wife last year, but was unaware at the time of how valuable the HRV metric is to understanding the body's training readiness. Am considering upgrading and selling the Venu 2 S, especially after your excellent review. Thanks for another informative video.
Can you please tell me lug to lug measure of venu 2s?
These updates seem pretty substantial to me. HRV is probably one of the single measures that I reference the most in my day to day planning.
thanks DCR. your review convinced me to upgrade from my very well used venu 1
God Garmin was sneaky with this release. Havent seen it in the shops.
I've been watching it and new it was coming out. But there was no marketing at all
The Venu Sq firesale they had last month hinted at it.
Don’t use the creators name if your not praying to him…Exodus 20:7
Me either
@@chriscotton4207same story:) I was watching it, read articles about release dates, expected it this early fall. But then suddenly 💥boom, I see the reviews by DC R. and DesFit guys. When did they manage to do that?😅
Excellent and thorough review! Thanks. This one is making it's way to the top of my list
So great, thanks for this review, my Venu 3S comes today! also love that you are in the Netherlands, which is where I live, too! Thanks so much for this!
How do you like your garmin?
Great review, thank you.
How would you compare the Venu 3s with the Vivoactive 5?
No multiband but performs better vs some more expensive watches with multiband (coros)
Nicely done Garmin 👍
My Amazfit was a multiband and it was performing worse than this one.
U can't get extra bands?
@bradonvega4965 I was talking about satellites bands
@@bradonvega4965 He meant GPS bands, not wrist bands.
I’m planning an upgrade to the 965 this fall. I really hope the new wellness features and the LARGER FONT option make it over!
Great review! Loved how comprehensive the reporting was. 🎉
That was a very comprehensive and well documented presentation. My heart was set on the Venu 2 Plus since it first came out, but due to the lack of some basic features that I wanted, I looked elsewhere and ended up with an Amazfit with their well known by now, inconsistent and inaccurate HR sensors. A full refund is pending because of a screen fault that it developed fifteen months after the purchase. I was considering the new Huawei GT 4 Pro but wasn't so sure about it. And now I know why. This is the watch I want and this is going to be the next smartwatch on my wrist. Thanks D.C!
Great video, thanks! I finally got the Venu 3 over the Galaxy 6. My only regret is not buying it sooner!
Are you happy with your purchase after 2-3 months? Any issues?
I jùst bought mine over the weekend. I tested the ecg and it works now.
Thank you for the great review. Would you do a video comparing the Venu 3 versus Forerunner 265? Thanks
Ray when do you think we will see sleep coach on FR965?
Thanks for the review! Any idea whether some of the new features (e.g., sleep coach, etc.) will be added via software update to FR965?
I am hoping to see some/all of these on the Fenix 7 Pro...🤞
Added that point in another comment. I understand why the 265 has different features, but why does the 965 not have the new Venu features? Weird segmentation block there unless they add them later...
One thing that’s awesome about the venu 3 is the golf stat tracking. I’m looking to buy a Garmin watch as my Apple Watch has awful battery and lackluster features. I’ve been looking at the forerunner 256 and venu 3 and the venu 3 seems to do more well the forerunner does less but does them better (forerunner does not have the golf stat tracking)
Kudos for the great review! Looks like it's very much worth its price.
Great review. Thank you. I would definitely buy Venu 3S for my wife :) Glad to know I did not buy 2S a month ago and hope for new unit to come in a few weeks.
Damn, I want a watch which just combines Venu 3 and Forerunner 265. Basically, a smart watch with 5 buttons which supports in-depth workout data (and their training readiness). Not sure what to wait for here.
I agree. We can dream!
Agree with you !!!!!!
Super useful! Thanks for the review! Top notch
Could you please consider comparing the Venu 3 and Epix series? Thanks!
For me, sleep tracking is a priority, so I'll be looking forward to The Quantified Scientist's analysis. Unfortunately, Garmin has always been near the bottom when it comes to sleep phase accuracy. Looks like a nice upgrade in lots of other areas though.
It's not that Garmin has been near the bottom. It's all about Apple being so high at the top that nobody can compete.
His videos are super useful anecdotally I've tried literally all the main brands and weirdly Fitbit was the most accurate.. I found it way more accurate than my Apple watch 7... But I hate Fitbits devices. Garmin's sleep tracking for me on my Fenix 7 and before that Vivomove has been so bad it's almost pointless. I've got a 2 year old that STILL wakes up once or twice a night... But I consistently get 80 to 90 scores. 🤣👍🏻
Wouldnt suprise me if QTS absolutely trash the Venu 3 as he has been doing with any Garmin device. Hes always been a Garmin-hater and is biased towards Apple products. He once scored Apples heart rate correlation value above 1.0 which is impossible - there is such a big difference between his test results and the results ray, desfit, chase the summit and fit Gear Hunter is getting that something is off. Truth is Garmins new sensor is catching up to Apples accuracy
@@mortenvinther8940Very true. The effort he is putting is very admirable. But it's just one sample size and something which is not very convincing to make a critical decision. But more similarities now with regard to the Samsung 6 series. Inaccuracies seem more consistent across many reviews.
More accurate as compared to what? What kind of certified or medical grade gear are you using to corroborate? @@RMILLSMMA
I've always had fenix watches and just sold my 6x pro so not sure I might get this now as my upgrade instead of the epix 2. Great review and some nice details thanks. Good food for thought
Thank you for a good review! Missing of LTE is a problem for me.
Great review, as usual. Thanks to your and DesFit videos I made the leap and bought the Venu 2 S last year. So happy with it. I hope they will add the nap tracking to older models via an update as well, as I plan on using this watch till it completely gives up. :)
Great review thanks! Current Apple Watch user here but I am up for a battery service/replacement and am seriously considering the Venu 3.
I LOVE the venu!
Great review! Thank you!
As ever, excellent review DC!
Great review, thanks! Is there in watch jumping rope activity?
any info on the new features coming to older watches? like body battery details and nap tracking to forerunners 255/265 and 955/965… we’ve been wanting this for a long time hahahah
Always appreciate the thoroughness of the reviews. One thing I didn't hear you mention (you may have?) is that the Venu 2plus case has a metal back vs. the Venu 3 appears to have a plastic back. I really appreciate the metal back on the Venu 2 plus (perfect watch to wear to work and bike commuting and casual runs/hikes).
If they did change it from metal to plastic, that'd be super disappointing.
I agree --- great review, but the plastic back is a big change to overlook
Great review. As always super useful. Thank you
Is the new sleep tracking going to be updated to the Forerunners? If so, I am not sure why anyone would pick this over the Forerunner 265, to be honest. You need your phone next to you anyway to use the calling feature, so one might as well just use the phone directly.
My old school original 8mm thick Vivoactive had a 3 week battery life and now although tons more features, the battery life isn't great so we have to charge it more frequently. Do you know if this Venu 3 has the Qi wireless charging capability? Seems a shame that this watch (which includes the nice speaker and microphone for taking calls) costs $450 and a basic Apple Watch SE costs $250 and has the mic and speaker. I prefer Garmin's software and stats though.... Thanks for the incredible review as always!
Ray the hype leading up to the release talked about temperature. So, you didn't mention it so I assume not there now? Coming in the future? Thanks and great review as always!!
That's the problem with rumors...they aren't always true. I suspect the hardware/sensor is capable of it, but it's definitely not a feature enabled today.
Thanks so much for review
Thanks for the review! Any info about the porting of the nap feature to other watches? I'm sure the flagships will get it, but Instinct2? F6 series? Thanks! (Also: There has been 2-3 releases of Venu since VA4, do you think the MIP display is discontinued in this segment?)
Thank you for mentioning the ecg feature. A must-have for me. Is there any news on this?
This will be my purchase once the battery on my Venu starts to struggle, if I manage to wait that long. Super happy with Venu 2 and I know I'll be even more so with the 3.
Great review! I like it!
Will the new sleep coach features be available on the fenix 7 series any time soon?
The pro version that just came out?
The sleeping coach feature also comes to the Fenix series? The nap feature is really good. I love that big burger.
Venu 3 = FR265 - triathlon + various modes + mic/speaker + bigger display?
Oh. You think theres a workaround for this in the future? 😅
Venu is missing various running features, outdoor rec, and cycling features. It obviously has its own added benefits, but there's definitely some big differences.
Hey Ray 👋🏼 What happened to the review of the COROS Pace 3? COROS not playing nice?
Yup, that's a question for COROS. They decided not to send me one, and then their other CEO (they have two, this one in China) started a smear campaign against me. Happy to test it though once the unit I ordered comes in - just as I always do with real-world data and showing said data.
So one of the CEO’s is afraid of an unbiased opinion?
@@deusn323 Specifically, he was displeased at the COROS Heart Rate Sensor accuracy testing where a single test (out of the many both myself and wife did), showed it was slightly inaccurate. He went onto say I had purposefully worn it loose (a fun idea, but technically impossible with their strap design as it'd just slide down and flap around entirely). Nevermind that every other reviewer also showed minor inaccuracy issues too. I suspect he didn't like that I in that same review pointed out how inaccurate the COROS APEX 2 PRO optical HR sensor was, and that it kinda made for a good reason to buy the COROS HR sensor.
I was really starting to like Coros more and more but reading this made Coros go down a lot of notches as far as I am concerned. I hope it will not influence you in any way from doing the great work you do. As a lot of us sportspeople really appreciate your hard work and opinion!
Was so excited for the 12 speed mechanical Shimano 105, that I missed this for a day. Which usually never happens with Ray's videos!
Ray - been waiting patiently for your Suunto Race review and loved that one today and this one. But I’m so unsure where to go on BF!!
I want accurate HRM and Sleep monitoring but don’t need to be smartwatched to bits or have to charge too regularly. All rooads led to Fenix 7, Venu 3 or Race - but with a budget (ish) and being a cyclist (getting old) not runner I then went to Venu 3, especially after seeing the sleep accuracy video by The Quantified Scientist.
Hoping you agree, as I’ve flip flopped a lot?!!
Thanks as ever.
Fantastic in depth review. Does it sync with Strava?
yes
Brilliant thanks. I recently bought an Edge 840 and love the fitness insights. I’m now trying to decide which Garmin wearable to use off the bike, as my Ultra doesn’t share data with Connect. I walk/hike but not sure which Garmin (there are so many) would suit. This could do the job perhaps or a Forrunner. Could I ask for any pointers please?
Same here -- my Edge does all I need when biking and I can't run (bad knees), but would be interested to track my (lack of) fitness as a whole. Venu3, FR265, Apple Watch?
Like you I mainly cycle and use an Edge 530 with an HRM strap. I recently bought a Venu 2 Plus to complement the data when I don’t ride. Only issue is now thinking if worth returning it for the Venu 3
Thanks for the review, does this watch have a rope skipping mode?
For me one of the most important feature that is missing on Venu2 compared to Forerunner series is the ability to "resume-later". Does that feature exist on Venu3?
Sadly no resume later.
Yes, that is a great feature for hiking. Resume after the long pause at the summing or hut. My brother continually dismisses the 15 min prompts for activity stopping in paused mode.
@@KoRnholio8 Yes, so it is almost unusable for hiking. Years before, i switched from the Venu 1 to a forerunner 245 because this missing feature (at this time, hiking where not on the Venu). It seems that garmin thinks that only heavy Fenix users go to a hike and needs a break ;) I don´t understand it...
This is the problem with the Garmin line-up that it’s little details like resume-later that seem so trivial but would be a deal breaker if you actually use them. They give you hope that maybe you might not need to spend $800+ dollars on another Fenix and then there’s little gotcha’s like this to trip you up. Personally, resume later isn’t something I’d miss but I’m sure there’d be something else that I use regularly on my Fenix 6 that will be missing, I just haven’t worked out what yet!
So it looks like, besides the new heart rate V5 sensor, 20/21 new features are on the Vivoactive 5 as well, thats pretty cool!
Great review, the one thing I didn’t find in it though and would like to know is if there is any function in Venu 3 that shows fitness readiness and recommends workout for the day. Thanks
Is it fair to say that the Venu 3 is a better pick over the 265 for someone that does an equal mix of HIIT sprinting/weight lifting/cycling/walks ? It seems like its more of an all-rounder versus the 265 which is very running centric. The 5th gen HR monitor looks like a big upgrade for accurately tracking HR for HIIT hill sprints and weight lifting.
I’m always confused about the venu vs like the forerunner 265. My mom is a runner, I’m getting her a Garmin so she can sync her training peaks plan (she’s currently using an AW). Prior to this launch I figured the Forerunner 265 was the way to go, now with the Venu 3 I’m not sure which one. Seems like a lot of overlap
I think it will boil down to the importance of either taking/making calls on the watch (Venu) or additional sports profiles / recovery metrics (265)
@@gabesalvador There is actually lots of useful running things on the Venus that Garmin leaves out like Training Load/Effect, PacePro, Course Navigation, Daily Suggested Workouts, Trail Running, Track mode, etc.
It has become a really annoying segmentation issue IMO. And so you'd think, well maybe the 965 combines the Venu specific features with the 265 right? Nope. So the Venu ultimately just has specific smart and health features not available on the other watches which is super weird.
As said, basically, how much do running metrics matter. To me, I still prefer those, but I'd love to have the extra Venu features...
Do you think these updates that the venu has will come to the 265?
@@Trulstor, likely not because they need something to differentiate them; otherwise there wouldn't really be much point. I am however surprised that they haven't announced any plan to add those Venu software features to the more expensive FR965 (that's the confusing one for me).
I have had my vivoactive 3 since 2019 and I am looking at getting a new watch. I was initially looking at the vivoactive 5 but some things that you mentioned in there sees that the venu 3 is a better fit for me. I want the phoenix 7 but it's a bit too far out of my price range. One thing I have been noticing is that when I run under trees, my GPS does some weird things and says I'm running at 7min/km which is not true.
This video is very helpful and I have enjoyed all the data comparisons from the same workouts.
Very detailed video. Could you please let us know how many nits is the screen brightness ?
Sadly Garmin doesn't release that metric, but I'm pretty sure it's 1,000 nits, knowing the display they use.
@@Dcrainmaker thank you for the info.
Hi Ray, thanks for all the great vids! Do you think other watches besides the Venu series will get the Gaming profile too? Like the Forerunner 965 for instance or the Epix/Fenix series?
What is the gaming one for
Thank you for the great surprise review really didn't see this one coming. Venu 2 got a pass from me mostly due to not supporting cycling power and was looking at Forerunner 255/265 instead. I wonder for Venu 3 does the extra power parameter like normalised power hence TSS at least got recorded after the activity is uploaded to Garmin Connect?
I was in the same position, hopefully it does.
This is me. Let us know Ray! I'm surprised you don't think this is a watch with major updates. It's the first time garmin has PM support on a smart watch?
Great review. I currently have a Venu (bought in 2021) the display has gone a bit wacky. I am trying to choose between the Vivoactive 5 or the venu 3S. I am a pool and open water swimmer and do the occasional bike ride and hikes.
Thoughts?
Good stuff so far, minute 8
Great video ! Does it have a temperature sensor ? Like predicted ?
Great review. Im curious about a couple of items. I have the old Garmin Venu 2 and I absolutely love it except for a couple of items. It does not play well with Iphones, and 2, the sensor for elevation is messed up. From what I have read the elevation is a common flaw on the Venu 2 due to where the sensor is located on the watch because it gets clogged with sweat/dirt/etc…. Do you know if this has changed? My Venu 2 will log me as climbing stairs or gaining elevation when I havent moved in hours. I have woke up to my watch giving me a notification that I hit my goal of 10 flights of stairs when I had been sleeping for 7-8 hours. Lol. Thank you sir and you are always the person I turn to for fitness watch reviews.
Does it have the daily workout suggestions?
I just wish they would put full golf function on the venu devices! I have the first venu and it's the only thing I want. I would love solar but understand the fit would be tough with the size and screen.
I slept with my Epix 2 for a year, loved the morning report body batterie initially, but after a while, if you’re tired, it’s just like someone telling you in your face every day: “ you look like shit”. A limit for me of being monitored 24/7. You could get worried (not helping)
Great video again Ray! Thank you! on 2:05 you mention another youtuber "desde"? Couldnt quite hear her name correct, do you have a link?
No problem, DesFit - here ya go: www.youtube.com/@DesFit
Desfit.
Thanks! @@Dcrainmaker
Thanks for this review. Great stuff. I have the Fenix 6 Pro Sapphire. I'd like to upgrade to a watch with the new display screen and touch. I'm looking at the Fenix 7 Pro but TBH it has a lot of features that I never used on the 6 so thinking I don't need the 7. However, I do hike a lot and wondering how the Venu really handles hiking. I rarely do backpacking but have. Garmin eTrex if I do that. Otherwise I use the HIIT and skiing trackers. So do you think I can get away with the Venu for day hiking (i.e. 10-15 miles) that can give me all the tracking, breadcrumbs, elevation, compass, etc?
Thx 😀👍 What is the difference between "Stress" and "HRV" ? And more important : Why the Forereunner 255,265 with the old Sensor have it but not the Venu 2/s ?
Also if u could ask: Does the Venu3s also has ECG hardware ?
But thats all pretty boring from a Health perspective. I now already bought a cheap iphone se2 and will order a Apple Watch 6.
They need to scrap the stress metric as it just adds confusing. Same for recovery time - it's recovery time for next (undefined by garmin) workout. Training Status and Stamina are other unnecessary poor guestimation metrics. Acute Training Load, Resting HR and HRV - These are the scientifically validated metrics that need to be focused on.
@DCrainmaker . Please can you give me a information if both venues 2 and 3 watches have tennis and open swim app?
Great review .
Bojan
Was hoping to see the spo2 accuracy review...would you add that to this?
Like that HRV they added... wish Samsung would add that to the Galaxy watch... Pushing 60 and would like to keep and eye on that HRV... Thanks for the vid!
Nice review. Please would you say that the 45mm is too big for women? I feel it is. I’m looking to buy this.
What should I choose? Venu 3 or forerunner 265 😮😅
What did you pick?? I’m stuck
Thank you very much for this in depth review!
I am a swimmer, but not a triathlete and looking mainly for swimming functions in pools - such as the Garmin Swim.
Unfortunatley the swim is lacking in a lot of other features and I also like the Venu 3 a lot better in from of looks.
--> Does the Garmin Venu 2 now also support creating and uploading trainings for swimming in the pool? The Venu 2 unfortunately is / was not compatible for that. Which is why opted out of buying it and am still searching...
I bought the Venu 2 and thought swimming was supported. I hopped into the sea and tried to find the Open water mode but there is none. So I ordered a Polar watch which is developed for athletes and not as a competition to Apple and Samsung watches.
I bought Venu 2, 1 year ago. Kinda want to upgrade but i still do like the Venu 2. Don't know if i need all the new stuff on the new one. We'll see.
Naps and evening report would be nice to have on my 965! Also wonder why still no red shift even on the bata upgrade
If they don't add that stuff to the FR965 I'm not sure what to say... there's been no announcement of that though who knows
That’s exactly what I was thinking. You’d hope they add this to their higher end models.
Thanks, Ray! I'm hesitating between FR265 and Venu3 (S)... maybe you could make a comparison? This would be great! I've two questions about Venu3: - Does it have Training Readiness (like 265)? - Does it include Triatlon? Maybe someone can answer these. Thanks in advance!
Yes, please. I am in a similar situation and trying to decide between these 2 watches. I have always had a Forerunner but some of the extra smart watch features of the Venue are appealing. It is confusing figuring out what running specific feature I might be missing in the Venue vs the Forerunner. I detailed comparison would be really helpful.
Hi, are there any insides about possible release date for Venu 4? I want a new watch for my wife, but don't understand what to do, to buy Venu3 now or wait for Venu4?
Same !
Thanks for the review. How does this compare to the Forerunner 965? I'll be looking to use it mainly as a general health & fitness tracker and my main sports activity is cycling. Which of these 2 would you recommend?
Thanks Ray, I'm riding out a Venu (1), screen failing... this V3 seems compelling, I like the larger font too. My main disappointment with the V1 was Bluetooth connectivity to my Jabra earbuds; with the watch on my left wrist, my body would block the connection to the receiver in the right earbud causing music dropout. Switching wrists fixed it. To be fair Garmin had a disclaimer on compatible headphones, but a better/stronger BT signal certainly would help make the half meter connection from my wrist to ear more consistent. Any feedback? Also, any word from garmin on the screen lifespan/quality?
Funny, I have the Venu 1 and Jabra earbuds also. But I don't really use them together much because the Jabras have fit issues for me. Didn't notice any connection issues.
Garmin kindly sent me an out of warranty replacement for my VENU, I just got it and will test to see if the BT connectivity issues are still there.@@renaissancemaneric8019
Another awesome review, question, the bracelet attachment, I returned my Venue 2 plus because the band attachment kept releasing while I was wearing it. Is it the same design?
Does the Venu 3 have maps on there as well for navigation like the Forerunner 965? Would be good to have a comparison between those watches as well.
No Maps, I think it can have maps with 3rd party support.
Auch. Just upgrades from my VENU 2 to an 965 because i missed recovery status.
I guess the Venu 2 is now discontinued :/ We never got that morning report feature or any of the UI improvements
Wow, nice watch.
Great reveiw. Any reason why Garmin Venu 3 is not having the stainless steel back like Venu 2 Plus, which looks for robust. Instead it is going back to the old school plastic/fiber back like Venu 2 and Venu.
Its a pretty underrepresented reason: Weight and cost. Also Robustness is not that different in normal day usage, even as a Bricklayer ^^.
For running and all other swinging arm sports ists pretty important that the watch is as light as it could be. Because the meassurement will get unprecise if the Watch whobles around.
And wearing the Watch to tight also is bad for the sensors.
For me i like that, its function over form but i respect that people want nice materials even if it isnt the best idea for the purpose.
@@residentCJ thanks for that but my point was bit different..If you see be it Venu or Venu Sq both models have same form factors with a fiber body at the back..my question why only Venu 2 plus got a steel back, even there Garmin might have thought the cost and weight factor, and they could have released it with a fiber back. So is it like Venu plus has some extra sensors or something for which only Venu Plus has that kind of build and not the older venus as well the very latest one, i.e Venu 3. Secondly do you think they are restricting these kind of a build with the Plus/Pro models only and in that case are we expecting a Venu 3 plus as well soon rather than later.
@@2385boris The main reason why venu2plus has metal backside is meassuring ecg, it needs metal on skin to electrically conductive. I dont know why they had to make the complete backside Metal.
As Ray mentioned the "Hardware" of the Venu3 is capable of meassuring ecg.
I never touched a venu3 , i dont know if the backside is (not) painted? metal. Or maybe they only have a small point on the backside thats metal.
but fact is, IF it can meassure ecg with software update (i wouldnt count on it ^^) it has to have a bit metal on the backside.
If they will deliver a software update i dont see the point of a venu 3 plus. But we live in inflation. Manufactureres reduce developement and increase product releases to make more money.
I think when they bring ecg update for venu3 and the price drops 15% its ok. But mainly because theres no real competition on Android with this batterylife and App quality for Health metrics.
Fitbit wants monthly payments for the most interesting metrics and huawei and samsung are not the precise in meassuring.
Great review! One question, this or Forerunner 965?