At CES 2025, Garmin debuted a new series of rugged smartwatches. The Instinct 3 consists of four hardy wearables that share many of the same components while each offering a handful of distinct features.
Garmin Instinct 3
Each of the four models sports a fiber-reinforced polymer case, scratch-resistant glass, plus a metal-reinforced bezel. Everything comes together to create a tough device capable of withstanding extreme temperatures, shock, and underwater submersion up to 100 meters. For outdoor assistance, Garman is giving the wearables a built-in flashlight with various intensities. Instinct 3 even has a red light mode to help you navigate in the dark and a strobe effect.
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Software features include around-the-clock health monitoring. Each smartwatch can track your daily steps, heart rate, and sleep habits, among other things. Smart notifications for texts or emails appear on the screen, according to Garmin, when paired with a compatible Apple or Android smartphone. Multi-band GPS supporting Garmin’s SatIQ tech is present to help guide you home.
Differences between the models are centered around the display. There are two options: an AMOLED watch face and a solar-powered screen. The former outputs vibrant colors, while the latter is more muted. It’s mostly grayscale, but a few highlights of color are present.
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Garmin states that the AMOLED Instinct 3 models can last up to 24 days (not hours, mind you) on a single charge. The solar-powered smartwatches are technically capable of lasting forever due to their “unlimited battery life.” According to Garmin, achieving this longevity requires users to expose the watch to “50,000 lux conditions” for about three hours per day outside. In other words, have the sun shine directly on the device.
Availability
The Instinct 3 series will be available for purchase on January 10. Similar to the displays, there are two size options: 45mm and 50mm. Prices for the AMOLED devices start at $450, and the solar-charging units start at $400. Colors include all-black plus Neo Tropic green.
If you want something cheaper, Garmin also revealed the Instinct E – 40mm. This mid-range smartwatch has a similarly rugged design and collection of features, although it lacks the impressive screen nor does its battery last as long — up to 14 days. Also rolling out on January 10, it will retail for $300.
