TechRadar had the opportunity to try out Garmin’s newest rugged smartwatches, the Solar Instinct 3 and the AMOLED Inspire 3, during CES 2025. These watches boast durable designs suitable for outdoor activities like rock climbing, with the Solar Instinct 3 featuring a unique solar-powered display that ensures long-lasting battery life.
The Solar Instinct 3 comes with a non-touch monochrome display surrounded by a protective metal band embedded with a transparent solar panel, offering indefinite battery life when exposed to sunlight. On the other hand, the AMOLED Inspire 3 touts a colorful AMOLED screen and can last up to 24 days on a single charge.
Despite the watches’ rugged appearance, they provide comfortable wear and clear readability with various activity-tracking options. While both models offer notifications and GPS functionality, they lack calling capabilities. Priced at $399.99 and $449.99 respectively, the Garmin Instinct 3 watches are considered affordable options in the rugged smartwatch market.
Unique features include a built-in flashlight with adjustable brightness and a red light option. Overall, the Garmin Instinct 3 smartwatches are praised for their comfort, impressive screens, and long battery life, making them a compelling choice for those seeking a durable wearable device without the hefty price tag of high-end alternatives.