Garmin Unveils New Instinct 3 OLED Watches: Bigger Displays and Longer Battery Life in Rugged Designs
Garmin has officially completed its OLED revolution in the adventure watch market with the introduction of the Instinct 3. This latest model brings cutting-edge OLED display technology to the rugged Instinct series, already well-known for its durability and outdoor readiness.
Design and Display: A Rugged Revolution
The Instinct 3 maintains the series' signature robust design, featuring chunky bezels that rise above the screen to protect the high-quality display beneath. This model is available in two sizes, with the 45mm version boasting a 1.2-inch 390 x 390 pixel OLED screen, and the 50mm model stepping it up with a 1.3-inch 416 x 416 pixel OLED display. This design strategy not only enhances visual clarity but also upholds the watch's physical resilience, essential for the wear and tear of outdoor adventures.
Unmatched Battery Life and Functional Flexibility
Despite its sophisticated display technology, the Instinct 3 doesn't compromise on battery life. The larger 50mm model offers an impressive 24 days of usage, while the 45mm variant can run for 18 days on a single charge. Even with the "always on" display mode activated, users will enjoy substantial battery life—nine days and seven days, respectively. However, it's important to note that these watches are focused more on activity tracking and navigation rather than multimedia, as they do not support music playback directly from the watch or map downloads.
Navigation and Water Resistance: Tailored for the Outdoors
The Instinct 3 excels in navigational features, supporting route planning through the Garmin Connect app which syncs directly to the watch for breadcrumb trail navigation. Additionally, it boasts an exceptional 10ATM water resistance rating, ensuring reliability in diverse environments, from hiking in the rain to swimming in lakes.
Advanced Materials for Durability
The latest iteration of the Instinct series also sees an upgrade in materials. Moving away from the solely polymer build of its predecessors, the Instinct 3 OLED combines aluminium and fiber-reinforced polymer for enhanced durability and a premium feel, without sacrificing the watch's rugged appeal.
Beyond OLED: Alternative Instinct Models
For those not swayed by OLED screens, Garmin offers alternative models within the Instinct family. The Instinct 3 Solar features a transflective display that incorporates solar charging, boasting up to 40 days of battery life or even "unlimited" with sufficient solar exposure. Meanwhile, the more budget-friendly Instinct E provides a stripped-down version without the metal bezel or LED flashlight, focusing purely on essential features at a lower price point.
Pricing and Availability
Instinct 3 OLED 45mm: $449Instinct 3 OLED 50mm: $499Instinct 3 Solar 50mm: $449Instinct E 40mm: $299
All models will be available for order from Garmin starting January 10, offering a range of options for enthusiasts of all levels seeking a high-performance, durable outdoor watch.
Garmin's completion of the OLED transition with the Instinct 3 brings a new level of sophistication to its lineup of adventure watches. Whether you're a seasoned explorer or a casual hiker, the Instinct 3 series promises a blend of durability, advanced technology, and long-lasting performance to accompany you on every journey.