# Evaluating the Polar Vantage M3 Alongside Garmin Fenix 8 and COROS HR Monitors: An In-Depth Analysis
The Polar Vantage M3 represents Polar’s newest entry in its range of fitness timepieces, providing a budget-friendly alternative to its high-end models while still encompassing numerous premium features. With a price tag of $399, it competes in a crowded market with the Garmin Fenix 8 and COROS HR monitors. Featuring dual-band GPS and a 4th-generation Elixir OHR (optical heart rate) sensor, the Vantage M3 aims to deliver dependable performance for runners and fitness fans alike. To evaluate these assertions, I assessed the Vantage M3’s GPS precision against the Garmin Fenix 8 and its heart rate (HR) tracking against the COROS HRM armband and Polar H10 chest strap.
Here’s what I learned after several weeks of testing the Vantage M3 across a variety of activities, including running, walking, and track workouts.
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## **Polar Vantage M3 GPS Precision**
### **Comparison with Garmin Fenix 8**
The Garmin Fenix 8 is frequently lauded as a benchmark for GPS precision, owing to its dual-band GPS capabilities. The Polar Vantage M3, similarly equipped with dual-band GPS, exhibited commendable performance in most situations. Throughout my trials, the Vantage M3 consistently recorded distances and routes with minimal error when compared to the Fenix 8.
For instance:
– In a 6.23-mile run, the Vantage M3 registered 6.23 miles while the Fenix 8 noted 6.22 miles.
– During a 3.27-mile walk, both devices reported the same distance.
Nevertheless, there were some occasional inconsistencies. At times, the Vantage M3 veered slightly off course, especially in shaded areas or near buildings, resulting in minor zig-zagging. While such variances were slight and unlikely to concern casual users, they could stand out to athletes desiring precise measurements.
### **Track Performance**
During a track run, the Vantage M3 outperformed many other dual-band GPS watches I have tested. Although it didn’t adhere perfectly to the first lane, it provided one of the more accurate readings I have encountered in this demanding environment. Still, Garmin’s Fenix 8 maintained a slight advantage in consistency.
### **Conclusion on GPS Precision**
The GPS precision of the Vantage M3 is remarkable for its price range. While it falls short of matching the Fenix 8’s leading accuracy, it remains competent and is more than adequate for the majority of runners and fitness enthusiasts.
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## **Heart Rate Precision: Polar Vantage M3 vs. COROS and Polar H10**
### **General Insights**
The heart rate monitoring of the Vantage M3 proved generally dependable during steady-state runs, with average HR readings closely aligning with those from the COROS HRM armband and Polar H10 chest strap. For example:
– In an 11/13 run, the Vantage M3 reported an average HR of 146 bpm, against 147 bpm on the COROS HRM.
– During an 11/23 run, the Vantage M3 tracked 168 bpm, just 1 bpm lower than the Polar H10.
However, the Vantage M3 encountered difficulties in specific situations:
1. **Track Workouts:** In a track run, the HR readings from the Vantage M3 were inconsistent, occasionally dropping as much as 20 bpm below the actual HR indicated by the COROS HRM. This could be a concern for athletes monitoring anaerobic activity.
2. **Walking Activities:** The HR graphs generated during walking activities displayed notable fluctuations, with the Vantage M3 frequently lagging or surpassing the actual HR by 5–10 bpm for extended durations. While the average HR for these activities was precise, the erratic graphs indicate potential improvements needed in Polar’s HR algorithm.
### **Conclusion on HR Precision**
For steady-state runs, the Vantage M3 provides reliable HR data that is comparable to pricier external monitors. However, its performance during high-intensity or low-effort activities shows a need for enhancement. Serious athletes may wish to use the Vantage M3 in conjunction with an external HR monitor for more accurate tracking.
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## **Polar Vantage M3 Compared to Rivals**
The Vantage M3 operates within a competitive landscape of mid-range running watches, going head-to-head with models such as the Garmin Forerunner 265, COROS PACE Pro, and Suunto Race S. Here’s how it compares:
### **Advantages**
– **Design:** The Vantage M3 is lightweight and sleek, making it suitable for all-day wear.
– **Features:** It is packed with advanced functionalities like ECG, skin temperature tracking, Strava route integration, and topographical maps.
– **Value:** Priced at $399, it provides many of the same features as the $599 Vantage V3, making it an attractive option for cost-conscious runners.
