Garmin has long been a stalwart in the smartwatch arena, especially when it comes to devices designed for outdoor enthusiasts and athletes. Their latest offerings, the Garmin Instinct 3 and Fenix 8, represent the pinnacle of rugged design and performance in the adventure watch category. These models come equipped with various new features, and they cater to a wide range of users.

One of the standout options, the Garmin Instinct 3, is available in both AMOLED and MIP Solar variants, all wrapped up in an ultra-rugged design that retails for about $500. While it includes many essential features ideal for fitness tracking and outdoor adventures, there are some notable omissions. For instance, this model does not support offline maps, LTE connectivity, or a touchscreen. Despite these drawbacks, it remains a commendable midrange fitness watch that offers excellent value compared to higher-end models like the Garmin Fenix 8 or Enduro 3.

On the other hand, Garmin's Fenix 8 is the complete package, offering an extensive array of features along with outstanding battery longevity. Priced significantly higher at approximately $1,199, the Fenix 8 includes a bright AMOLED touchscreen, a new Garmin heart-rate sensor, and a plethora of additional functionalities. However, it lacks LTE support, which can be a disappointment for some users.

Considering their advanced features and robust designs, both the Instinct 3 and Fenix 8 quickly became recognized as two of the best long-lasting sports and adventure watches on the market. They are available in various case sizes and configurations, including options for AMOLED or MIP/Solar displays, ensuring that there's likely a fit for every style and preference.

The key question when comparing the two is whether the Fenix 8 is worth nearly double the cost of the Instinct 3. While the Fenix 8 clearly outshines the Instinct 3 on paper, this does not necessarily translate into better value for all users. Let’s delve deeper into how these two Garmin smartwatches stack up against each other and the specific user demographics they are designed to serve.

Design and Display

Both the Garmin Instinct 3 and Fenix 8 are ruggedly built for outdoor use, yet the Fenix 8 boasts a more premium aesthetic. The Instinct 3 features a combination of fiber-reinforced polymer and aluminum, resulting in a texture that feels softer and more rubber-like. In contrast, the Fenix 8 showcases a more upscale construction with steel or titanium casing and a choice between Gorilla Glass or sapphire cover glass.

Both models come with a commendable 10ATM water-resistance rating. However, the Fenix 8 goes a step further by offering dive capabilities and has achieved MIL-STD-810H certification, which adheres to military-grade durability standards. As a result, the Fenix 8 is heavier, with its steel variant weighing 74 grams and the titanium option weighing 64 grams, whereas the Instinct 3 is lighter at 59 grams.

Garmin ships both watches with silicone bands by default, but options for nylon and leather straps are also available. The Fenix 8 provides even more versatility with a metal band option that enhances its elegance for formal occasions.

The Fenix 8 can also be found in a wider range of case sizes, starting from 43mm, with additional options at 47mm and 51mm. In comparison, the Instinct 3 offers two sizes: 45mm and 50mm. While Garmin lists a 43mm model, that is actually the Instinct E, which is a budget-friendly alternative with a very different feature set.

Hardware and Features

When it comes to hardware and software features, the Fenix 8 stands out as the clear leader. It is equipped with either a 1.3-inch or 1.4-inch AMOLED display, while the Instinct 3 has a 1.2-inch AMOLED screen. Although there are MIP options available, they tend to provide inferior quality compared to AMOLED and are less responsive, though they do offer longer battery life with solar charging capabilities.

Details about the processor powering the Fenix 8 remain undisclosed, but the Instinct 3 operates on an ARM Cortex M4. The Instinct 3’s low-spec processor, combined with only 17MB of RAM and a meager 4GB of onboard storage, limits its software capabilities. For example, it does not support offline maps, and users might find themselves needing to delete saved workouts to make room for updates.

In terms of specifications, the two models have several distinct differences:

  • Display: Instinct 3: 1.2-inch (390x390) AMOLED; Fenix 8: 1.3-inch or 1.4-inch (416x416 / 454x454) AMOLED.
  • Weight: Instinct 3: 59g; Fenix 8: Stainless Steel: 74g, Titanium: 64g.
  • Battery Life: Instinct 3: Up to 24 days; Fenix 8: Up to 29 days.
  • Storage: Instinct 3: 4GB; Fenix 8: 32GB.
  • Heart Rate Sensors: Instinct 3: last-generation sensor; Fenix 8: Garmin Elevate v5 sensor.

The Fenix 8’s expansive features include advanced health sensors, sleep tracking capabilities, and additional widgets for hydration and electrolyte loss, ski maps, and strength training tools. Furthermore, it features robust offline mapping capabilities that make it an ideal choice for serious athletes and adventurers.

Which One Should You Buy?

Ultimately, the decision may boil down to the fact that the Garmin Instinct 3 can effectively challenge the Fenix 8 primarily due to its AMOLED upgrade this year. While it lacks a touchscreen, making navigation slightly cumbersome, the vibrant display and attractive color options enhance its sporty appeal.

For those who might miss features like offline maps and GPX exports, the higher price tags of the $900 Enduro 3 or the $1,100 Fenix 8 may be more suitable. If you frequently engage in rigorous workouts or participate in multiple sports, the Fenix 8's capabilities may justify the investment.

For the average user who desires a durable and functional adventure watch without breaking the bank, the Instinct 3 offers an unbeatable value. As long as you have your phone close by during outings, the Instinct 3 can sufficiently cater to your outdoor needs without compromising on quality.