Garmin Instinct 3 throws an AMOLED display into the mix & solar boost
Garmin has given its Instinct series a big overhaul with the Instinct 3, now offering an AMOLED display and improved solar charging. It’s still rugged and outdoor-ready, but some missing features might make you think twice.
The new AMOLED screen is definitely the highlight here. Garmin has now brought the Instinct series in line with the Forerunner and Fenix lines, which also offer AMOLED displays.
The Instinct 3’s screen is bright, vibrant, and super easy to read in any light. If you’re into the classic look, the MIP Solar models are still available and now come with way better solar efficiency and sharper visibility. You’ve got size options too: the standard 45mm, a larger 50mm for those who want a bigger screen, and the smaller 40mm Instinct E for a more compact option.
Solar charging has had a huge boost this time. Garmin says the new solar models are five times more efficient than the last generation. In ideal sunlight, they can keep going endlessly. Battery life is strong overall, with the AMOLED models offering up to 24 days of use.
Built to handle just about anything
The Garmin Instinct 3 doesn’t mess around when it comes to durability. Its metal-reinforced bezel and water resistance up to 100 meters make it as tough as ever. Certified to military standards, it shrugs off harsh conditions like extreme temperatures and drops.
Garmin also threw in a built-in flashlight, perfect for nighttime hikes or when you’re fumbling around in the dark. This was the one thing many Instinct fans were hoping for.
Other upgrades include multiband/dual-frequency GNSS/GPS, now available on all units and paired with the SatIQ feature. Previously, this was only offered on the Instinct 2X in the last generation.
On the software side, the Instinct 3 brings several new features: Hill Score, Endurance Score, Training Load Focus, Training Load Ratio, Multisport Auto Transition, Nap Detection, Sleep Coach, Muscle Map for strength workouts, and animated strength workout guides (exclusive to the AMOLED models). It also includes Garmin Share, Garmin Messenger compatibility, and Garmin Pay as standard across all models.
There are new colors too, including Electric Lime and Neotropic, if you’re looking to add some personality to your gear. Despite the modern touches, the watch keeps its rugged and functional vibe, staying true to the Instinct brand.
Great upgrades but a few letdowns
The Instinct 3 packs some improvements but also misses the mark in a few areas. The AMOLED models lose the secondary display window, which might disappoint fans of the classic design. There’s still no mapping feature, which feels like a big oversight for a watch geared toward outdoor adventures. You’ll have to make do with breadcrumb trails and basic navigation tools.
And while the device includes Garmin’s Elevate V4 heart rate sensor, it skips the newer V5 version, which offers better accuracy and ECG functionality. It’s a strange choice, especially since Garmin has started adding the V5 to many of its other devices. Lastly, there’s no touchscreen, even on the AMOLED models, which would’ve been a nice addition for smoother navigation.
Worth it or not?
The Instinct 3 nails it with solid durability, great battery life, and all the outdoor features you’d expect, plus that slick new AMOLED display. But it’s missing a few things that hold it back, like proper mapping, a touchscreen, and Garmin’s latest heart rate sensor. The big wins here are the fancy screen option, the built-in flashlight, and the improved GPS accuracy with multiband tech.
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The Instinct E is kind of a weird one, though. Its battery life is worse than the Instinct 2, which honestly makes the older model a better pick if you can still find it. The E feels like a budget option to tide people over once Instinct 2 stock runs out.
If you’re all about tough design and crazy long battery life, the Instinct 3 might be your vibe. But if you’re after more advanced features, it’s probably worth waiting for Garmin’s next move.
Pricing for the Instinct 3 series varies depending on the model you choose. The AMOLED versions are priced at $449 for the 45mm size and $499 for the 50mm, reflecting the premium display. The MIP Solar editions $50 less. The Instinct E models are priced at $299 for both the 40mm and 45mm sizes. You can check current pricing and availability on Garmin’s website.
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