When Garmin released the Venu 3 series, it solidified its position as a leader in the “wellness smartwatch” category. Unlike the rugged Fenix or the run-centric Forerunner series, the Venu line is designed for those who want a balance of high-end fitness tracking and elegant, everyday aesthetics. However, the primary dilemma for most buyers is choosing between the flagship Venu 3 and its smaller sibling, the Venu 3s.
While both watches share the same DNA and internal software, the differences in physical dimensions, battery longevity, and wrist presence are significant enough to warrant a deep dive. This guide explores every nuance to help you decide which model belongs on your wrist.
Design and Physical Dimensions
The most immediate difference between the Venu 3 and the Venu 3s is the size. Garmin has long used the “s” suffix to denote “small,” and that remains true here.
- Garmin Venu 3: Features a 45mm case. It is designed for medium to large wrists and offers a more commanding presence.
- Garmin Venu 3s: Features a 41mm case. This is ideal for those with smaller wrists or users who prefer a more discreet, lightweight timepiece that doesn’t snag on shirt sleeves.
The weight difference is also notable. The Venu 3 weighs approximately 47g with the silicone band, whereas the Venu 3s drops down to 40g. While 7 grams sounds negligible, it is noticeable during high-intensity workouts or while sleeping—a key consideration given the Venu 3’s advanced sleep-tracking capabilities.
Display Quality and Screen Real Estate
Both watches utilize stunning AMOLED touchscreens, which provide deep blacks and vibrant colors that rival the Apple Watch or Samsung Galaxy Watch. However, the screen size impacts how much data you can see at a glance.
- Venu 3: Boasts a 1.4-inch display with a resolution of 454 x 454 pixels.
- Venu 3s: Features a 1.2-inch display with a resolution of 390 x 390 pixels.
The larger screen on the Venu 3 is objectively easier to read, especially when viewing complex charts, notification text, or the new “Wheelchair Mode” layouts. If you find yourself squinting at small text, the 1.4-inch display of the Venu 3 provides a more comfortable user experience. Both models use Corning Gorilla Glass 3 for durability and feature a stainless steel bezel that adds a touch of premium flair.
Battery Life: The Great Divider
In the world of smartwatches, larger cases usually mean larger batteries. This is where the Venu 3 pulls ahead of the Venu 3s.
- Venu 3 Battery Life:
- Smartwatch mode: Up to 14 days
- Battery Saver mode: Up to 26 days
- GPS-only GNSS mode: Up to 26 hours
- Venu 3s Battery Life:
- Smartwatch mode: Up to 10 days
- Battery Saver mode: Up to 20 days
- GPS-only GNSS mode: Up to 21 hours
A four-day difference in smartwatch mode is substantial. If you are an endurance athlete or someone who dislikes the ritual of frequent charging, the Venu 3 is the clear winner. However, even the 10-day lifespan of the Venu 3s is far superior to most competitors in the smartwatch market, which often require daily charging.
Shared Features: What remains the same?
It is important to note that Garmin does not “gate” features behind the larger model. Whether you choose the 3 or the 3s, you are getting Garmin’s most advanced health sensors and smart features.
1. Sleep Coach and Nap Detection: Both models introduced the Sleep Coach, which provides a “sleep need” score based on your activity, stress, and HRV. They are also the first Garmins to officially detect and log naps, integrating that data into your Body Battery energy monitoring.
2. Voice Functionality: Both watches include a built-in microphone and speaker. When paired with a compatible smartphone, you can take calls directly from the wrist or summon your phone’s voice assistant (Siri, Google Assistant, or Bixby) to send texts and control smart home devices.
3. Elevate Gen 5 Heart Rate Sensor: Both utilize the latest Gen 5 optical heart rate sensor. This sensor is hardware-ready for ECG (Electrocardiogram) features and provides improved accuracy during vigorous movement compared to previous generations.
4. Wheelchair Mode: A significant step in inclusivity, both models feature a dedicated mode for wheelchair users. It tracks pushes rather than steps and includes specialized preloaded workouts.
Color Options and Aesthetics
Garmin has tailored the color palettes of these two watches to match their likely demographics.
- Venu 3 colors tend to be more traditional and neutral: Whitestone/Silver and Black/Slate.
- Venu 3s offers a wider, more fashion-forward variety: Pebble Gray/Slate, Sage Gray/Silver, French Gray/Soft Gold, Dust Rose/Soft Gold, and Ivory/Soft Gold.
The 18mm band size of the Venu 3s gives it a more “jewelry-like” appearance, whereas the 22mm band of the Venu 3 looks like a traditional sport watch. Both use industry-standard quick-release bands, allowing for easy customization with leather, metal, or nylon straps.
Performance and GPS Accuracy
Under the hood, both watches are identical. They feature All-Systems GNSS, which means they can access multiple satellite constellations simultaneously for high-accuracy tracking in challenging environments like dense forests or urban canyons. Neither model features Multi-Band (L1+L5) GPS, which is reserved for the more expensive outdoor lines, but the accuracy remains excellent for road running, cycling, and hiking.
Internal storage is also identical, allowing you to download hundreds of songs from Spotify, Deezer, or Amazon Music for phone-free listening via Bluetooth headphones.
Which One Should You Buy?
The choice between the Venu 3 and Venu 3s ultimately comes down to two factors: Wrist size and Battery preference.
Choose the Garmin Venu 3 if:
- You have a wrist circumference larger than 155mm.
- You prioritize maximum battery life (14 days).
- You prefer a larger screen for easier data reading and notification management.
- You want a bold, traditional watch aesthetic.
Choose the Garmin Venu 3s if:
- You have a smaller wrist (below 150mm) or prefer a lightweight feel.
- You want more color variety, such as Soft Gold or Sage Gray.
- You find 45mm watches too bulky for sleeping.
- You don’t mind charging your watch a few days earlier in exchange for better ergonomics.
Final Thoughts
The Garmin Venu 3 and Venu 3s represent the pinnacle of Garmin’s lifestyle-wellness category. By offering two distinct sizes without compromising on internal tech, Garmin ensures that every user—regardless of wrist size—can access top-tier health metrics like Body Battery, HRV Status, and Nap Detection.
If you are looking for a watch that transitions seamlessly from a morning yoga session to a formal dinner, the Venu 3 series is arguably the best all-around option on the market today. The “s” version is a masterpiece of miniaturization, while the standard Venu 3 is a battery powerhouse that refuses to quit. Whichever you choose, you are getting one of the most comprehensive health-tracking experiences available in 2024.
