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Long gone are the days of using watches that could only tell you the time. In this era and time, the use of modern and sophisticated running GPS, watches are on the rise.
These watches are similar to smartwatches and will help you to track your progress when running or exercising.
You will also be able to plan your exercise regimen and monitor your heart rate. Moreover, some watches can also install maps and provide GPS services.
Fenix 3 and Forerunner 235 are two such watches. We have conducted a Fenix 3 and Forerunner 235 comparison to resolve any confusion you might have regarding your choice between them. Read ahead to get a detailed review and a comparison between the two products!
Table of Contents
Garmin Fenix 3 or Garmin Forerunner 235 GPS Watch?
Although both of these watches are extraordinary in their own terms, some distinct features in both will attract a different set of customers.
In order to help you understand better, we have listed these points of differences between these two watches:
Weight
If you don’t have any problem with a fancy running watch that weighs heavier, then the Fenix 3 will be a better choice for you.
This watch weighs 82 grams but is loaded with excellent features. On the other hand, the Forerunner 235 only weighs 42 grams, which makes it super light.
Screen Resolution and Pixel Density
The screen resolution of the Fenix 3 watch is 218×218 pixels, and the Forerunner 235 watch is 180×215 pixels.
In terms of pixel density, the Fenix 3 one has a higher one of 257 ppi, whereas the Forerunner one has a pixel density of 234 ppi.
Battery Life
When the watches are being used on their full capacity with the GPS mode on, the Fenix 3 watch serves you longer with a battery life of 20 hours.
But the Forerunner 235 watch’s battery life only lasts for 11 hours on this mode.
Barometer and Compass
If you are a serious runner, the Fenix 3 will be a better choice for you since this watch is equipped with a compass and a barometer. But the Forerunner 235 does not come with any of these.
It is more suited for casual wearers who prefer a great smartwatch that can integrate into their daily lives and help them to track their activities better.
Fenix 3 vs Forerunner 235 – Comparison in 2021
Last update on 2021-05-13 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
Garmin Fenix 3
The Fenix 3 watch is a delicate product from Garmin watches with a stylish Chroma display in gray color.
Its display is wide enough to showcase all the relevant information and measures about 1.2 inches.
And the best thing is, even in sunlight, you will clearly be able to view its screen.
The resolution is top-notch as well to make the readings more comprehensible.
As this is a watch specifically made to integrate itself into your daily life, you can also use it during swimming. It can have connectivity up to 100 meters depth of water.
The case of it is made of fiber-reinforced polymer that protects it from external damage.
Apart from having a GPS, this watch also features an Exo antenna made of steel.
Also, the antenna facilitates the tracking process of the GPS by giving a far more accurate position reading.
Moreover, you can always stay connected to the internet by using this watch’s wireless connectivity.
You can also enable its Wi-Fi hotspots and update the Garmin connect database with all of your relevant data.
The best thing about this watch is its battery life. Depending on your mode of use, the battery will last for different time durations.
For example, if you use the watch’s full capacity by enabling its GPS and training mode, the battery will serve you for 20 hours on a full charge.
If you keep it in the UltraTrac mode, it will last for 50 hours. And last but not least, the simple watch mode will make the battery last for as long as six weeks.
Product Specifications
PROS
CONS
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Garmin Forerunner 235
This watch, too, is another fantastic product from Garmin. Its high-tech and smart features make it a worthy opponent of the Fenix 3.
Unlike the Fenix 3, its heart rate monitoring device is wrist-based and therefore, getting a reading becomes much more comfortable.
The watch is also equipped with a GPS along with a display that is visible even in intense sunlight.
Its memory is trans reflective in pixel. Moreover, viewing its display is even more comfortable due to the sheer size of its screen.
Despite having a large screen, the watch’s overall size isn’t overwhelming and feels light on the wrist.
Besides, you can connect this watch to your smartphone and get audio prompts to guide you when you are busy.
The Forerunner 235 is very useful to keep track of your exercise regimen due to its ability to record lap times.
When you maintain this watch in the smartwatch mode, its battery will last for up to 9 days.
However, if you are using it on the GPS mode, the battery will only serve you for 11 hours if fully charged.
When you are running or doing some other work, keeping track of your notifications can be difficult.
But this watch solves this problem by providing smart reports that let you know about your incoming emails, call alerts, text messages, etc.
from your smartphone. As a result, you won’t miss out on important updates.
Product Specifications
PROS
CONS
Related Guide: Forerunner 620 vs Forerunner 235
Frequently Asked Questions
What can the Garmin Fenix 3 do?
The Garmin Fenix 3 watch is a great sports watch due to its ability to track different sporting activities.
It is also equipped with a heart rate monitor, GPS, and various other smartwatch features.
Can the Fenix 3 play audio?
No, this watch cannot play music. Smartwatches aren’t advanced enough to play audio yet directly, but some watches can play it via Bluetooth headphones.
Is the forerunner 235 waterproof?
Yes, it is. This watch has a water rating of 50 meters, making it suitable to use during different water-based activities.
Can you answer calls on Garmin Forerunner 235?
This watch can be connected to your smartphone to receive its notifications like text and call alerts.
But in order to answer calls or reply to texts, your phone needs to have an android OS.
Is the Garmin Forerunner 235 or Fenix 3 touch screened?
No, both of these watches are not touch screened. They use other mechanisms like metal bracelets, rubber bands, and buttons to control the watch.
Conclusion
So, we can conclude that both of the two watches are outstanding in terms of their features but are suitable for a different set of consumers.
While the Fenix 3 is more suited for exercise lovers and running enthusiasts, the Forerunner 235 can be used as a regular smartwatch to wear for daily use.
Therefore, we hope this article was able to resolve your dilemma regarding Fenix 3 and Forerunner 235.