Garmin Venu 3 vs. Vivoactive 6: Why the Older Model Still Holds an Advantage
Garmin has consistently been at the forefront of the fitness wearable industry, presenting an extensive selection of smartwatches designed for everyone from occasional users to world-class athletes. In April 2025, Garmin unveiled the Vivoactive 6, the newest addition to its well-liked entry-level smartwatch series. However, even though it’s the more recent model, the Vivoactive 6 does not entirely eclipse the earlier Garmin Venu 3, which was released in August 2023. In fact, the Venu 3 continues to deliver several significant enhancements that render it an appealing choice—provided you’re ready to invest a little extra.
Let’s delve into how these two timepieces stack up against each other and why the Venu 3 might still represent the superior option for certain users.
Design and Display: A Fusion of Style and Performance
Both the Garmin Vivoactive 6 and Venu 3 exude a sleek, contemporary aesthetic that seamlessly transitions from exercise to everyday wear. The Vivoactive 6 is equipped with a 42.2mm casing and is the lighter option, tipping the scales at just 37 grams including the strap. It features a 1.2-inch AMOLED display with a resolution of 390 x 390 pixels, safeguarded by Gorilla Glass 3.
Conversely, the Venu 3 is available in two sizes: the standard 45mm and the more compact 41mm Venu 3S. The larger model showcases a 1.4-inch AMOLED display with a crisper 454 x 454 resolution. It also sports a stainless steel bezel, imparting a more premium feel compared to the Vivoactive 6’s anodized aluminum.
Both devices utilize silicone bands, though the Vivoactive 6 accommodates typical 20mm quick-release straps for easy customization. The Venu 3 uses 22mm or 18mm bands based on the variant.
Winner: Venu 3 for its superior materials and more expansive, higher-resolution display.
Sensors and Health Monitoring: The Venu 3’s Strength
A notable distinction between these two devices is found in their sensor technology. The Vivoactive 6 employs Garmin’s older Elevate v4 heart rate sensor, which does not feature ECG capability or skin temperature detection. This is a significant drawback, particularly since the Venu 3, despite its age, is equipped with the advanced Elevate v5 sensor that supports ECG and skin temperature tracking.
Moreover, the Venu 3 incorporates a barometric altimeter, enabling it to monitor elevation changes during activities like hiking or trail running—something the Vivoactive 6 is incapable of.
Winner: Venu 3 for its superior health tracking functions.
Fitness Features: Similarities with Distinctions
Both smartwatches present a comprehensive set of fitness features, such as:
– Sleep Coach and nap tracking
– Advanced Body Battery energy monitoring
– Animated on-screen workouts
– Garmin Coach
– VO2 Max assessments
– Recovery time and morning updates
However, the Venu 3 includes additional amenities like a jet lag advisor and more precise elevation tracking due to its altimeter. It also provides a built-in microphone and speaker for voice assistant functionality and on-wrist phone calls—features that are absent from the Vivoactive 6.
Winner: Venu 3 for enhanced convenience and coaching features.
GPS and Navigation: A Mixed Outcome
Both watches are compatible with GPS, GLONASS, and GALILEO satellite systems in All-Systems mode. The Vivoactive 6 enhances its offerings with support for QZSS and BeiDou, potentially improving location precision in specific areas. Nevertheless, neither model supports dual-band GPS, a feature available in more sophisticated Garmin devices like the Forerunner and Fenix series.
Winner: Vivoactive 6 for expanded satellite system compatibility.
Battery Performance and Charging
Both models showcase commendable battery longevity. The Vivoactive 6 provides up to 11 days of use on a single charge, while the Venu 3 can extend up to 14 days. However, heavy reliance on GPS and music streaming significantly affects these durations. Both utilize Garmin’s proprietary charging cable.
Winner: Venu 3 for superior battery life.
Price and Value
Priced at $299.99, the Vivoactive 6 is a more budget-friendly option for those seeking a stylish, capable smartwatch without overspending. The Venu 3, featuring enhanced attributes and a premium design, is priced at $449.99—a $150 difference.
If ECG, skin temperature tracking, or a built-in mic and speaker aren’t essential for you, the Vivoactive 6 provides excellent value. However, if those features are important, the Venu 3 warrants its higher price tag.
Winner: Vivoactive 6 for cost-conscious shoppers; Venu 3 for users desiring enhanced functionalities.
Final Conclusion: Which One Should You Opt For?
– Select the Garmin Vivoactive 6 if:
– You’re looking for a lightweight, stylish smartwatch at
