Have you recently started working out? Or do you need to train for an upcoming running competition?
In any case, what you need right now is a reliable sports watch, and there are not many out there.
But here are three brands, Suunto, Garmin, and Polar, which are well-known for their sports watches, and you will surely be amazed by their service if you get one of these.
However, the actual question is – which one should you get?
The task of purchasing a suitable one can be challenging; hence, in this article, we will compare Suunto vs Garmin vs Polar.
We will be analyzing the recommended watches from all three of these brands, and we will also discuss their differences so you will know which one would be more apt for you.
Suunto vs Garmin vs Polar Comparison
| Suunto | Garmin | Polar | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Battery Life | Normally ranges around 5-7 days depending on the model you choose. | Usually offers 7-14 days of battery life in Smart-watch mode, depending on the model you choose | Battery life can range from 4-10 days depending on the model you choose to buy. |
| Design | We found these a tad bit bulkier, only relatively speaking. The positive aspect of this is that it results in sturdier watches. | offers a lot of attractive lightweight options | Both sleek and bulky designs available |
| Budget options | It offers mid-range to high-end option | Garmin offers a couple of decent budget watches like the Garmin Forerunner 45 | There a great midrange watches like Vantage M |
| Common Features | Heart rate monitoring, automatic spring tracking (highly suitable for runners), battery warnings, calorie cound ample of sports modes etc. are some of the common features you can expect in Suunto models You can easily find Touch screen and route navigation options in high-end models. | Garmin Smartwatches more or less is Multisport supportive, allows smart notifications, has a bunch of built-in sports apps and of course, GPS, Heart-rate monitoring etc. Touchscreen, incident detection, music control etc., are advanced features found generally in high-end Garmin models | Numerous sports settings, highly accurate optical heart rate sensors, mobile app connectivity and tracking, smart notifications, sleep tracking, Sensor fusion technology etc., are some of the common features. High end models include music capabilities etc. as well |
| Other | Strava-like app features to allow you to check out other people’s activities and progress too. | Garmin smartwatches allow access to Garmin coaches | Extensive data tracked which can be accessed through the app. Impressive and intuitive training features |
Choosing between Suunto, Garmin, and Polar can be quite difficult, given all of these are well-known brands that produce the most high-quality watches out there.
But if you are looking to get a sports watch then you will surely have to choose one over the others – and you must do it according to your own requirements.
All three brands come with their own share of benefits, which can be difficult to resist.
So, you need to go through their differences and then make up your mind regarding which one would suit your needs the most.
Design and Construction
The technical design of Suunto watches attracts almost everyone – it has a simple yet fancy look.
As for the construction, most of these watches are made to be waterproof, so you can expect them to last for a while.
Garmin watches, on the other hand, look very heavy-duty. In fact, they are built to be very sturdy as well – given they are mostly made of stainless steel and other sturdy materials for enhanced longevity.
For an innovative look and a lightweight body, Polar watches are the best option.
Although some of them are waterproof, they are still lighter than their counterparts, which will make you almost forget that there’s a watch on your wrist.
Functions
All of the watches from these brands can track your heart rate quite accurately.
But Polar watches can even show the number of calories burned and track your daily-life activities and sleep.
Garmin watches can provide multiple satellite receptions such as GLONASS, GPS, and 3-axis compass, but some watches from Polar and Suunto also contains these features.
On the other hand, Suunto watches can be paired with your smartphone, so you can receive smart notifications, and it can be used as a barometer.
But some fundamental and similar features are present in its counterparts as well.
Battery Life
At Roadweekly, we believe, If you need a sports watch that will provide the longest battery life, then Garmin watches are the way to go.
Although all three of the brands produce watches with long battery lives, Garmin just cannot be topped in this sector. The smartwatch mode of these watches can last for days with one full charge.
But Polar and Suunto watches offer reliable battery lives as well, which will last for hours—or days in some instances—on training time and in GPS mode. You will just have to make your pick according to your convenience.
How Well Does It Do As a Sports Watch?
As a sports watch, Suunto watches would be the most versatile one as it contains the most number of sports mode. So, if you are into multiple sports, this is the one for you.
On the other hand, Garmin watches will let you work-out for the longest periods without any hassle or interruptions.
It can track your heart rate and activities to provide you with all the stats that you need while training.
If you are a runner or are fond of personalized training programs, then Polar watches should be your best friend.
The devices of this brand contain features that will let you customize your sessions, so you can get the best results.
Price
It goes without saying that excellent sports watches will be a little expensive and so you need to spend wisely.
Therefore, all of the three brands produce costly devices without many exceptions.
The most expensive one, however, would be Garmin watches, as you will need to spend at least 400-500 dollars on them. But we can assure you that it will surely be worth it.
If you go lower than this price range, then you will be getting Polar watches – you can find a great one within 200-300 dollars.
Suunto watches are in the middle of both of these brands – you will need to spend around 300-400 dollars on these.
Suunto Watch
Whether you are looking for a companion for your adventures or your training sessions, Suunto watches will provide the best service in both cases.
The devices of this brand are quite versatile and serve the best as sports watches – as they contain several sport modes to suit your needs.
They contain other useful functions as well, which will add more convenience to your daily life activities; for instance, it can be used for heart rate tracking, reminders and notifications, and even as a barometer.
The battery life of these watches will surely let you use them for prolonged periods – whether you need it for GPS or just basic smartwatch activities.
To make things more user-friendly, it will also allow you to sync the device with your smartphone.
Suunto 9, GPS Sports Watch
Are you looking for a watch that can do it all – starting from keeping track of your heart rate to being a barometer?
In that case, you have stumbled across the perfect product for yourself because it adheres to all the mentioned requirements, along with a lot more.
The long and reliable battery life of the tool allows you to cover a great distance without any stops.
Even when you are on a long run, the FusedTrack feature of the device will provide top-notch track and distance accuracy – so you will always be getting preciseness.
What makes the watch even better is that it offers practicality like no other. Along with sport expertise, the device offers support for more than eighty sports, which makes it rather versatile and user-friendly for all sorts of people.
On the other hand, you won’t have to worry about whether or not the GPS will deteriorate the battery life because that will never be the case.
It has been designed in such a way that even if you use the GPS for prolonged periods, the battery life will remain excellent.
The reminders and battery modes of the watch will make life and sports much easier for you.
Along with that, the device also offers a training summary, which will include lap tables and graphs as well. The heart rate tracker will also be very convenient for you.
Are you worried about the device malfunctioning once it gets soaked in water?
Well, you have got nothing to fret about because the sapphire glass on the watch protects it from potential damage from water over 100 meters.
Unfortunately, you cannot adjust the data and settings on a Windows platform, which can be quite inconvenient for you.
On the other hand, the phone app cannot be installed on all phones, so you should check the compatibility before getting it.
Suunto 7, GPS Sport Smartwatch
Nowadays, the touch screen of a smartwatch is given a lot of importance along with its battery life.
Hence, such a device should contain both indiscriminately. With being a diverse smartwatch, this device will provide the benefits of a GPS sports watch as well.
As a result, you will be getting the best of both smartwatch features and sports expertise. The device can also be used as a barometer and a heart rate sensor.
On the other hand, there are plenty of features that make everything more convenient for its users.
For instance, it contains Google Pay, Google Assistant, Google Fit, Google Play, and other daily-life features such as weather and calendar.
When it comes to versatility, this device will surely never disappoint you. It supports more than seventy sport modes- including cycling, running, swimming, skiing, etc. Moreover, it also connects to sports services for extra benefits.
For further convenience, the watch will allow you to navigate routes even when you are offline.
That is because the maps download automatically when you connect them to Wi-Fi and charge it. Furthermore, it also comes with music controls.
The battery life goes a long way – 48h on smartwatch use, and 12h when you are using the GPS.
Moreover, the stainless steel bezel and the OLED touch screen will provide durability like no other. So, you won’t have to worry about replacing it anytime soon.
However, the device is not suitable for long sports activities – it is only suitable for short workouts.
On the other hand, the buttons on the watch feel quite cheap, which can be quite disappointing for the users.
SUUNTO Ambit3 Peak HR Running GPS Unit
GPS sports watches should be accurate and easy to use – or else, you will have a tough time dealing with them.
Fortunately, this device contains both of these features along with a lot more amazing aspects, which we will be discussing in this analysis.
With this watch, you will always be updated regarding the weather, thanks to its precise and stable weather and altitude information.
The device also ensures complete navigation, so if you are going someplace new, you won’t have to worry about getting lost.
Plus, the unit provides multiple functions that will make it your favorite in no time.
Along with a GPS and compass, it also comes with the functionalities of a barometer and altimeter. With this, you can monitor your heart rate effortlessly at all times.
When it comes to durability, this watch will exceed your expectations. Along with a heavy-duty casting, it ensures resistance to water over 100 meters.
Moreover, the case is made of polyamide, so you can expect it to accompany you for a long time.
The 200 hours battery life of the watch also provides 1-minute accuracy – which makes tracking and GPS navigation much more convenient for you.
So, even if you go someplace far, you won’t have to worry about the battery dying.
What makes the device even better is that you can connect it to your smartphone to sync your activities as well as to see notifications and calls on the watch.
Similarly, the watch contains other useful features that will make your experience with it much better.
Unfortunately, you might face a difficult time when pairing the watch to your phone or computer – it may require a few hours.
On the other hand, GPS and speed are not accurate at times, which can be highly inconvenient for the users.
Garmin Watch
While finding a practical smartwatch that is heavy-duty but suitable for daily wear is difficult, all of these facilities are included in all the Garmin watches.
Most of their devices are made of stainless steel and other sturdy materials; their screens are designed in a way that makes them readable even under sunlight.
To make sure you can navigate using the watch no matter where you are, it contains multiple satellite receptions such as GLONASS, GPS, and 3-axis compass.
On the other hand, you can also use the devices as a heart rate monitor, a barometric altimeter, or to receive notifications from your smartphone by pairing the two.
Most importantly, the battery life of Garmin watches will last for days! Hence, you won’t have to go through the hassle of charging it now and then.
Overall, if you want a durable and user-friendly sports watch, then you should definitely go for Garmin watches.
Our Opinion on Germin Watches
Great watches can make one’s life better – which is why a lot of people prefer this brand.
But if you aren’t sure about which one to get, then you should go through our analysis because we have picked some of the best ones available out there.
Garmin fēnix 5, Premium and Rugged Multisport GPS Smartwatch
It’s often difficult to find watches that offer both durability and top-notch quality of the material.
However, here’s one that provides both, which makes it an all-time fan favorite.
Find out more about the amazing aspects of this device in our comprehensive analysis.
When it comes to versatility, this device is surely above a lot of its other counterparts in the market.
The multisport GPS device offers a technology that will monitor your heart rate at all times, so you can get a lot done using this one device only.
On the other hand, the sturdy design of the product makes it suitable for adventures.
Its bezel, rear case, and buttons are made of stainless steel, which makes it long-lasting. The case itself, however, is made of fiber-reinforced polymer for ruggedness.
No matter where and when you are working out, you will be able to track your progress without any hassle.
The key stats will be easy to reach, thanks to its performance widget. Moreover, its display remains visible in sunlight, so you can conveniently workout during the day.
The features included in the device make things more convenient for you. If you connect the device to your smartphone, then you will be receiving smart notifications, and it will make automatic uploads to the online fitness community of the brand.
But that’s not all. The device also includes outdoor sensors, which include GLONASS satellite reception and GPS.
Along with that, it also offers a 3-axis compass along with a gyroscope and the benefits of a barometric altimeter.
Sadly, the pace calculation when running can be quite misleading from time to time, which can be inconvenient for the users.
Moreover, the screen of the device can hang when displaying information related to the weather.
Garmin Forerunner 235, GPS Running Watch
If you are looking for a durable watch that will provide top-notch mileage along with reliable battery life, then look no more.
The number of benefits that this device can provide is countless. It comes with a feature that will let you monitor your wrist-based heart rate.
Along with that, you can also use it for activity tracking and receiving notifications directly from your smartphone for further convenience.
The smart notifications include a lot of aspects of your smartphone. For instance, it will give you call alerts, and you can track incoming emails along with text messages.
In fact, you can also view your calendar reminders from the smartwatch, so you won’t miss out on anything.
You can easily customize the watch according to your requirements. With the same physical size, you can enlarge the screen by 44%.
Moreover, the display remains visible in sunlight, and its Transflective Memory in Pixel(MIP) makes it very convenient to view the values and stats.
What makes the device even better is that the device even contains audio prompts, which makes it all easier for you.
Using this feature, you can receive audio prompts from the paired smartphone, which includes lap times and laps.
If you are concerned about the battery giving up before you do during your workout session, then you have got nothing to worry about.
The smartwatch mode of the device can last up to nine days with a full charge, and you can use the GPS mode for eleven hours straight.
One of the biggest drawbacks of this device is that it goes into the auto workout mode, despite its settings.
On the other hand, the watch might stop charging after a few months of use, which can be quite disappointing for the users.
Garmin Fenix 6X Sapphire, Premium Multisport GPS Watch
If you need a watch that will efficiently work as both sleep and workout tracker, then you have stumbled across the ideal product for yourself.
Along with these facilities, the device can provide a lot more that will make your daily life more convenient for you.
The best part of this device is that it will guarantee longevity like no other. Its bezels are made of stainless steel, and it comes with a diamond-like carbon coating that ensures durability.
The 1.4-inch display is also sturdy and is readable under sunlight, so you don’t miss out on anything.
On the other hand, the battery performance of the device is splendid. It lasts up to 21 days on the smartwatch mode and 15 hours while running on GPS along with the music mode.
Moreover, the fully charged device can go on for 46 days while on the expedition GPS activity mode, and so on.
This device is one of the best for navigation. It comes with ski maps along with TOPO maps; you will also be getting Galileo, GLONASS, and GPS as well as 3-axis compass sensors.
In fact, the watch even provides the benefits of a barometric altimeter and a gyroscope.
It comes with enhanced training features, which offer pace guidance throughout the activity and provides training status estimates for a better understanding of your workouts.
Whether you need to monitor your sleep activity or your heart rate, this device will surely not disappoint you.
It provides the benefits of wrist heart rate monitoring and comes with PulseOx that will remain updated even when you are asleep.
However, the maps of some areas may be unavailable to the users, which means that you won’t be able to download it either.
On the other hand, the device may fail to pair with your smartphone, which can be quite inconvenient.
Our Opinion on Polar Watches
Polar Watch
A dependable, high-quality fitness tracker cannot be found everywhere – but Polar watches can provide the benefits of one along with a lot more indiscriminately.
These watches are undoubtedly the best for workouts; they will track your heart rate and show you the number of calories that you have burned right on your wrist.
Whether you need to run, workout, swim, or bike, the devices will let you make a personalized plan, which will provide you with the best suggestions and results.
But they are well-known for tracking sleep and other activities as well so that you can do your best the next time you are working out.
Most Polar watches come with a GPS function, which tracks distance, speed, pace, and even altitude to give you the most accurate stats.
Furthermore, the devices come with a lightweight design, so you won’t feel like there is anything on your wrist at all! Moreover, their waterproof build makes them suitable for swimming.
Overall, if you are looking for innovativeness in a lightweight device, then you should go for Polar watches.
POLAR IGNITE – Advanced Waterproof Fitness Watch
Lightweight and innovative watches that will improve your training sessions are tough to find.
However, here’s one that adheres to all of these requirements, along with a lot more, which will make it your favorite in no time!
To make the best out of your workouts, you need accurate tracking of your heart rate, and this watch will provide exactly that.
It does so by combining the optical sensors and bio-impedance electrodes, so you will have clear stats of the calories you are burning.
On the other hand, the device provides multiple features like receiving texts, emails, and phone calls, but along with that, it adheres to your fitness goals as well.
For that purpose, it suggests the best workouts that will ensure optimum results.
What sets this device apart from the rest of its counterparts is its nightly recharge feature.
When you are tired and sleeping, the watch will track your recovery while you are asleep, so you can make better and more thoughtful decisions in the morning.
But that’s not the end of it because this device knows how to take sleep tracking one notch higher.
The Sleep Plus Stages feature will provide the analysis you need of your sleep, so you can get the amount of rest needed to be fully energetic for your next workout session.
Even if your workout consists of taking long runs, this product has got your back.
The GPS watch can track distance, speed, and route like no other – and that too, without requiring your smartphone!
One of the major drawbacks of this device is that it may fail to sync to your smartphone and PC, so you may have to use it singularly.
On the other hand, the battery drains quite fast if you set the watch up for notifications.
Polar M430 GPS Running Watch
Are you looking for a reliable watch that will provide the most accurate stats of your running sessions?
In that case, look no further, because you have come across the ideal product for yourself. It has other stunning facilities that will only continue to amaze you.
With this device, you can simply track your heart rate by looking at your wrist.
The watch comes with an optical heart rate solution, which will provide you with the most accurate results. So you will be able to rely on it at all times without any worries.
If you are going on a long run on an unknown route, then you have got nothing to fret about as long as this watch accompanies you.
The integrated GPS system can track the route, speed, distance as well as altitude, so you will have all the information on your wrist.
What makes the device even better is that it comes with a built-in accelerometer.
Now, the benefit of this feature is that it will track your distance and pace, whether you are on a treadmill or a track.
You can even make personalized and adaptable running plans using this device, so you won’t be needing a trainer for the purpose.
The watch offers a running program, which will help you achieve your goals according to your convenience solely.
But that’s not all. The watch comes with features that will track your activities and sleep as well; that too, 24/7.
It will monitor the number of calories burned, and steps taken throughout the day and also provide you better insights on how much rest you should be getting.
However, the battery of the device is not very reliable, as it dies quickly ¬– so you will have to charge it now and then.
On the other hand, the heart rate monitor can show inaccurate results at times, which can be quite inconvenient for the users.
POLAR VANTAGE M –Advanced Running & Multisport Watch
If you are going to invest in a sports watch, then you should make sure that it’s worth the money.
Fortunately, the lightweight design and innovative features of this device will make it totally worth the investment.
Now, if you dislike the hassle of charging a watch every now and then, then you are going to love this one.
That is because it comes with an exceptionally long battery life, which can last up to 30 hours in training time. Hence, you can use this multisport GPS watch for prolonged periods.
Throughout your entire training session, the device will monitor your heart rate precisely.
The combination of optical sensors and bio-impedance electrodes will provide accuracy like no other – which will allow you to keep track of the calories you have burned during the workouts.
Whether you are into cardio or resistance training, this device will be suitable for you.
The Training Load Pro feature of the watch will provide an exceptional look into how your workouts and training affects your body, so you will be able to make better decisions regarding it.
When it comes to versatility, this product is surely at the top of the market. You can bike, run, and even swim with this watch on, thanks to its waterproof build.
Moreover, it will track long-distance runs and cycling quite precisely as well, so you have got nothing to worry about.
The device comes with fitness band options, which are customizable, so you can personalize the watch with your own style without any hassle.
Sadly, the display is a little too dark, and you may have a tough time viewing all the values and stats through it.
Conclusion
Even after knowing all the details of Suunto vs Garmin vs Polar, deciding on purchasing one can be quite tricky.
So, just remember your requirements when you are looking for a sports watch because that is what matters the most.