Garmin Vivoactive 3

This is a really solid device – Great design, well thought through, exceptionally well engineered and links into the already existing Garmin ecosystem.

As a sports watch first and ‘smartwatch’ second, the Vivoactive 3 gets plenty right. It features almost everything you’d want from a workout tracking perspective, save for some of the more advanced coaching aspects seen in Garmin’s more expensive dedicated fitness wearables.

Despite its sleek design, though, the Vivoactive 3 tracks practically every activity you could want (although some might be disappointed there’s no open-water swimming app) and has the best optical heart rate sensor I’ve tested in a wrist-borne tracker.

It accurately and reliably captures workout data for a number of sports and is an excellent option at $300.

With smart notifications, GPS, sports tracking to rival high-end devices, an on-board payment system and a subtle, stylish design, Garmin has created a versatile wearable with true mainstream appeal.

I’m impressed – the Garmin Vivoactive 3 really is one special fitness watch. It ticks pretty much all the boxes: it’s usable and accurate, has GPS, altimeter and heart rate sensors, it tracks your swims on top of all the regular fitness activities – plus a few extra &ndash...More

Get this watch if fitness features are of paramount importance to you. The Vivoactive 3 is a much more capable fitness-tracking smartwatch than the Fitbit Ionic or Apple Watch Series 3. However, the Apple Watch Series 3 is still the best smartwatch for iOS users. $279.99Amazon

The Vivoactive 3 is a great product that just seems a little lost, toeing the line between a fitness tracker and a smartwatch. It's one of the smartest — and priciest fitness trackers that we have tested, but it still has some work to do to claim an award.

The Garmin Vivoactive 3 is a big improvement on the HR in design that also beefs up its sports tracking. Not only that, but it's better as an all-day health tracking device, and paired with the new Connect app.

The Garmin Vivoactive 3 is just as comfortable being a high-end activity tracker as it is being your daily fitness tracking wearable. In this regard, it's one of the most versatile smart fitness watches around.