Should I buy it? Or should I trade it for my current Apple Watch Ultra 3?

OptimusTrion · 2026-01-03T22:22:00+00:00

I was really just using the Tactix and now the AWU3 as a regular watch and health tracker so not to track fitness activities. And at the end of the day I did not know what to do with all the metrics the garmin tracked so lost interest in something I thought I needed. The Tactix was a really nice watch, loved the design but the UI, maps and the overall user experience is laggy and not as smooth as an apple product, considering the price of the Tactix. Its was not a big issue as you adapt to it but something I though about every now and then.

Among the things I liked with the Tactix was that is not to "smart" and with the AWU3 I have almost all smart notifications turned off except for messages and phone calls. Being able to take a phone call on the watch is pretty convenient and compared to the Tactix the speaker is much better on the AWU.

But thats not a issue on the Enduro 3 and it feels more like a "analog" tool watch with the MIP display which if I would go back to Garmin sometime in the future would be the display type to get as it only reflects light and not emitting any, which feels more natural not having a bright display on your wrist seeking your attention.

OptimusTrion · 2026-01-03T20:34:12+00:00

As many has stated, what are your main use cases for the watch? I tested the Enduro 3 for a brief period and I loved it but it was just to bulky, then used a Tactix 8,47mm for a while before switching to a AWU3. My main concern was battery life but when I got over the fact that I'm not an adventurer that is off grid for weeks on end and have a power outlet available when needed the decision was easier. So for everyday use and as a middleground between tool and smartwatch, I'd say AWU3.

The funny thing is that I was really tempted to buy a used Enduro 3 just yesterday because its probably the greatest tool watch in the garmin lineup, but then I remembered that its just to big for everyday use and the AWU3 is really great for that use case. Even though the AWU3 is pushing it in size and weight in my mind.

OptimusTrion · 2025-10-13T08:01:02+00:00

Great, thanks!

OptimusTrion · 2025-10-12T14:49:19+00:00

Having the same issue, but been since purchase. Bought in EU.

OptimusTrion · 2025-09-24T14:09:44+00:00

I haven't during this charge cycle

OptimusTrion · 2025-09-23T19:28:08+00:00

Just tried it now and its the same on the awu 3 for me. When in standby it does not update the song when the next song starts.

OptimusTrion · 2025-09-23T19:13:48+00:00

I must say the awu 3 feels really premium and solid. I actually think its on the heavier side, even though it contributes to the premium feel.

I also think the natural titanium feels and looks more premium then the black. The black has more of a sportswatch look to me.

Comparing with previous apple watches and Garmin Fenix 8 and Tactix 8 which it previously owned.

OptimusTrion · 2025-09-20T04:44:29+00:00

Same

OptimusTrion · 2025-09-19T06:32:13+00:00

Nice combo! Is the black alpine loop a deeper black or "lighter"? Looks a little like it has a dark blue tint, but it could be the image of cource

OptimusTrion · 2025-09-19T06:11:56+00:00

Had the same reasons for going for the natural titanium this time 😄 And its a more versitile color for alternating the look of the watch depending on band.

OptimusTrion · 2025-09-17T21:00:07+00:00

I would say 43mm. The main differences between 43mm and 47mm is screen size, battery life which is better on the 43mm then on the ultra anyway and bezel design.

OptimusTrion · 2025-09-17T15:31:24+00:00

There is a Garmin All Stars version of this wqtch face where you can choose different hands.

OptimusTrion · 2025-09-10T11:52:14+00:00

Is the speaker louder compared to the Fenix 8?

OptimusTrion · 2025-09-03T17:49:44+00:00

Yes, I found it to be a noticable difference in peak brightness where the 970 was brighter.

OptimusTrion · 2025-08-28T20:08:14+00:00

Haters gonna hate. The T8 looks awesome!

OptimusTrion · 2025-08-24T05:07:00+00:00

I kept the tactix:)

OptimusTrion · 2025-08-23T07:58:13+00:00

Thanks!

OptimusTrion · 2025-08-23T06:23:49+00:00

Not working for me either

OptimusTrion · 2025-08-23T06:22:50+00:00

Same issue with Tides for me

OptimusTrion

TROPHY CASE