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Garmin Venu 3S and the Garmin Vivoactive 5 have some key differences. Garmin Venu 3 is the newer model and more advanced option with built-in speaker, nap detection, and a refined heart rate sensor, while Vivoactive 5 is a more budget-friendly model that still delivers excellent core performance. This comparison will walk you through key differences so you can confidently decide which one fits your needs best.
Feature-by-Feature Breakdown
Processor:- Garmin Venu 3S features an updated faster chip that improves responsiveness when switching between apps.
- Garmin Vivoactive 5 uses a standard processor which delivers slower transitions.
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Display:- Garmin Venu 3S has a 1.2-inch AMOLED display that provides higher brightness for better outdoor readability.
- Garmin Vivoactive 5 also uses a 1.2-inch AMOLED display with slightly less brightness optimization.
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On-Wrist Calls:- Garmin Venu 3S supports Bluetooth calling that allows quick phone conversations directly from the watch.
- Garmin Vivoactive 5 does not support on-wrist calling.
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Multi-band GPS:- Garmin Venu 3S features multi-band GPS that improves location accuracy in cities and trails.
- Garmin Vivoactive 5 relies on standard GPS tracking.
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Skin Temperature:- Garmin Venu 3S supports skin temperature tracking that helps monitor nightly variations.
- Garmin Vivoactive 5 does not support skin temperature tracking.
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Jet Lag Advisor:- Garmin Venu 3S has a jet lag advisor that provides light and sleep guidance during travel.
- Garmin Vivoactive 5 does not include jet lag advisor features.
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VO2 Max:- Garmin Venu 3S features VO2 Max measurement that delivers improved accuracy with its newer sensors.
- Garmin Vivoactive 5 includes VO2 Max tracking at a standard accuracy level.
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ECG:- Garmin Venu 3S includes ECG support that helps detect irregular heart rhythms for advanced heart monitoring.
- Garmin Vivoactive 5 does not support ECG functionality.
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HR Sensor:- Garmin Venu 3S includes the Gen 5 Elevate HR sensor that improves accuracy during high-intensity workouts.
- Garmin Vivoactive 5 uses the Gen 4 Elevate HR sensor with standard accuracy.
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Wheelchair Mode:- Garmin Venu 3S features a wheelchair mode that tracks pushes and tailored activity metrics.
- Garmin Vivoactive 5 does not include wheelchair mode.
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Body Battery naps:- Garmin Venu 3S supports Body Battery with nap detection to give a clearer picture of daily energy levels.
- Garmin Vivoactive 5 tracks Body Battery without nap detection.
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Specs at a Glance
| Feature | Garmin Venu 3s | Garmin Vivoactive 5 |
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| Processor | Updated faster chip | Standard chip |
| RAM | Higher for smooth performance | Standard RAM |
| Battery Life | Up to 10 days (Smartwatch mode), 21 hours GPS | Up to 11 days (Smartwatch mode), 21 hours GPS |
| ECG | Supported | Not supported |
| Body Battery naps | Advanced tracking | Basic Body Battery only |
| Sleep Coach | Yes | Yes |
| Wheelchair Mode | Yes | No |
| Meditation | Yes | Yes |
| HR Sensor | Gen 5 Elevate | Gen 4 Elevate |
| On-Wrist Calls | Yes | No |
| Multi-band GPS | Yes | No |
| Jet Lag Advisor | Yes | No |
| Skin Temperature | Yes | No |
| VO2 Max | Yes with more accuracy | Yes |
Who Should Buy What?Buy the Garmin Venu 3S if you:- Want advanced health tracking including ECG and skin temperature.
- Need features like on-wrist calling, wheelchair mode, and nap detection.
- Prefer premium accuracy with Gen 5 HR sensor and multi-band GPS.
- Travel often and value the jet lag advisor.
- Are willing to pay more for the most advanced Garmin features.
Check Garmin Venu 3s Best Price Buy the Garmin Vivoactive 5 if you:- Do not need on-wrist calls, ECG, or multi-band GPS.
- Want a lightweight design with long smartwatch battery life.
- Value meditation and sleep coaching without advanced extras.
- Are upgrading from an older Garmin and want a simple, budget-friendly option.
Check Garmin Vivoactive 5 Best Price |
Winner by Category
| Category | Winner |
|---|
| Processor | Garmin Venu 3S |
| Display | Garmin Venu 3S |
| ECG | Garmin Venu 3S |
| Body Battery naps | Garmin Venu 3S |
| Wheelchair Mode | Garmin Venu 3S |
| HR Sensor | Garmin Venu 3S |
| On-Wrist Calls | Garmin Venu 3S |
| Multi-band GPS | Garmin Venu 3S |
| Jet Lag Advisor | Garmin Venu 3S |
| Skin Temperature | Garmin Venu 3S |
| VO2 Max | Garmin Venu 3S |
| Internal Storage | Garmin Venu 3S |
What They Have in Common
- AMOLED Touchscreen Display: Both the Garmin Venu 3S and Vivoactive 5 feature bright AMOLED touchscreens, providing vibrant colors and excellent visibility indoors and outdoors.
- Comprehensive Health Tracking: Each watch includes 24/7 heart rate monitoring, sleep tracking, stress tracking, and SpO₂ measurement, making them powerful tools for maintaining overall health awareness.
- Built-in GPS: Both models have integrated GPS, GLONASS, and Galileo support, allowing users to accurately track outdoor runs, walks, and cycling without needing a phone.
- Fitness and Sports Modes: Each device supports a wide range of sports and fitness profiles – including strength training, yoga, and cardio—so users can record and analyze nearly any type of workout.
- Smartwatch Features: Both watches offer notifications, music storage and playback, and contactless payments via Garmin Pay, giving them everyday smartwatch functionality beyond fitness tracking.
FAQ (Quick Answers)
Does the Garmin Venu 3S support ECG?
Yes, the Garmin Venu 3S supports ECG, which allows users to detect irregular heart rhythms directly from the watch. The Garmin Vivoactive 5 does not include this feature.
Which watch has better battery life, the Garmin Venu 3S or the Garmin Vivoactive 5?
The Garmin Venu 3S lasts up to 10 days in smartwatch mode, while the Garmin Vivoactive 5 lasts slightly longer with up to 11 days. Both provide about 21 hours of GPS use.
Can both watches track naps?
The Garmin Venu 3S includes nap tracking as part of its Body Battery system, giving a more accurate view of recovery. The Garmin Vivoactive 5 does not detect naps automatically.
Do both models have a sleep coach?
Yes, both the Garmin Venu 3S and the Garmin Vivoactive 5 have a sleep coach that provides insights and recommendations based on sleep patterns.
Which watch supports on-wrist calls?
The Garmin Venu 3S supports Bluetooth on-wrist calls with a built-in microphone and speaker. The Garmin Vivoactive 5 does not include this feature.
Is multi-band GPS available on both watches?
The Garmin Venu 3S supports multi-band GPS for greater accuracy in difficult environments. The Garmin Vivoactive 5 relies on single-band GPS only.
Can either watch help with jet lag?
The Garmin Venu 3S includes a jet lag advisor that suggests light exposure and sleep adjustments during travel. The Garmin Vivoactive 5 does not include jet lag features.
Do these watches support skin temperature tracking?
The Garmin Venu 3S tracks nightly skin temperature changes to give more insight into health trends. The Garmin Vivoactive 5 does not support this function.
Which heart rate sensor is used in these models?
The Garmin Venu 3S uses the Gen 5 Elevate heart rate sensor for improved accuracy, while the Garmin Vivoactive 5 uses the Gen 4 Elevate sensor with standard precision.