Note: This review is 100% of my own words. No products were provided to me in exchange for this review. I have linked to items on Amazon with my associates account.
As a runner and triathlete, having data is my jam! It is really important that I have a product that is accurate, easy to use, breaks down data properly and integrates well with multiple applications and systems for reviewing this data.
I started out using a Garmin 910xt and quickly moved into the upgraded version, the Garmin 920xt. This watch has served me well for a few years - but one of the biggest things I haven't been a fan of was moving between the Garmin 920xt during workouts then to my Apple Watch Series 1 during the day. Sure, data could be imported but it was just a 'pain'. This is why when the Apple Series 3 came out, I was ecstatic! This Series 3 has capability for swimming and in watch heart rate tracking.
The Positives
These are a quick bullet list of my favorite aspects of each:
Garmin 920xt:
- Bluetooth connectivity - can view texts notifications on watch
- Cycling data (power, speed, cadence)
- Running data (
- Battery life - up to 24 hours (I haven't tested this, but it served me well through an Ironman 10+ hours)
- Durability - I don't shy away from being rough with it
- Compatible with Apple, Windows, Android
- Garmin Connect integrates well with many different online programs
- VO2 Max levels
- Custom set HR and Power zones
- MOVE! - Watch can set to encourage you to move
- Recovery check - uses heart rate to determine your recovery
- Accessories to enhance use - running form, power/cadence
- Tracking is accurate - like the Garmin
- No cell phone needed - can make calls, listen to music
- Heart rate strap not needed - it is tracked from wrist
- Automatic detection of swim splits and type of stroke (this actually awed me!)
- Lighter weight and smaller wear than the Garmin
- Can use to find my phone (chronic phone-loser here)
- Wheelchair user functionality
- Shares activity with other Apple watch users
- Activity rings - visually see your daily progress + get prompts from watch
- Have to use a heart rate strap
- No music or phone capabilities (Not a deal breaker for me)
- Lack of cycling data (power, speed)
- Lack of real time swim splits
- Only compatible with Apple (but I'm an Apple fan so this isn't a deal breaker)
- running
- multisport (triathlon, aquathlon)
- cycling
- hiking/rucking
- running
- hiking/rucking
- Connectivity and tracking to cycling power meters and speed sensors
- Capability to push for a "split" in swimming and see the results on screen, not after the fact