This product has been discontinued by the manufacturer. It's been replaced by the Garmin Forerunner 945, you may want to check out that review instead.
(Note: My Fenix3 In-Depth Review is now published and available here, go forth and enjoy all the details there instead!)
Today, Garmin announced the latest iteration of their Fenix lineup with the Fenix3 multisport GPS watch. Described at its simplest – the Fenix3 takes the navigation and hiking functionality of Fenix2 and merges it with virtually all of the new functions found on the Garmin FR920XT watch. Except one difference: It leaves behind the plastic look of the FR920XT and introduces everything from a metal link band to different glass options.
As I noted above, this watch is really about a tribal merge between the functionality found on the FR920XT and the Fenix lineup. Historically speaking the Fenix lineup has always been aligned more to the Outdoor/Hiking crowd than the runner/cyclist crowd. While the Fenix2 changed that a fair bit in becoming a multisport watch, there were always little reminders that it wasn’t quite of the same bloodline as the Forerunner series.
That all disappears now with the Fenix3. This watch shares more in common with the Forerunner series than the Fenix series, from the ground up. However, it doesn’t do away with any of the Fenix family features – namely navigation related.
To keep it straight forward and to the point, here’s the run-down of all the new functionality found in the Fenix3 that weren’t present in the Fenix2:
Added WiFi connectivity: This allows you to upload workouts the moment you walk through your door. Added concurrent Bluetooth Smart/ANT+: While the Fenix2 had limitations on using one or the other at the same time, that limitation goes away here. 100m waterproofing: This is an increase from 50m waterproofing. New GPS antenna: The Fenix3 includes a new EXO GPS antenna which includes GLONASS support. New color screen: This screen and user interface looks virtually identical to the FR920XT, except in the body of the rounded Fenix watch face. It’s not HD-color like some smart watches, but it’s better than the FR620 and inline with the FR920XT. Connect IQ support: This will enable you to download apps, watch faces and other customizations for the Fenix3…starting today for watch faces and data fields, with apps coming shortly. Daily Activity Tracking: This will track steps, sleep, and how much couch surfing you’re really doing during the day. Virtual Racer: This adds in the capability to race against past performance and downloaded courses. Metronome: This audible/vibration alert was added on the FR920XT to be used for running cadence drills. Personal Records (PR’s): This will let you know when you’ve hit your best times against standard distances like 1-mile, 5K, and other common brag-able reference markers. Cycling Dynamics & Di2 support: These won’t be available at launch, but are being looked at for a post-launch update. Cycling VO2Max: In addition to already supporting running VO2Max, the Fenix3 adds in support for cycling VO2Max for those with a power meter. Multiple bike sensors: The Fenix2 didn’t support multiple bike profiles, the Fenix3 mirrors the FR920XT and allows you to pair to as many sensors as you’d like to save for automatic recognition as you change bikes. FirstBeat HRV/RR: This data will now be included in recorded files.
Addition of Activity Profiles: Now you can create highly customized activity profiles just like on the FR920XT and Edge 510/810/1000 devices. Multisport mode supports pool mode: Unlike the Fenix2, the Fenix3 allows you to choose the pool within a multisport event. Alpine Ski & Snowboard Mode: While this was technically on the Fenix2, I call it out simply because very few people realized it was there. Auto Climb Feature: This mode will automatically change your display fields when climbing. For example, you can set to show elevation, ascent, and grade fields as you start to run uphill.
Of course, what you see above might be somewhat familiar for Garmin FR920XT users. It is in effect almost every software feature on the FR920XT coming to the Fenix3 (yup, even that Ski mode recently hit the FR920XT). The key software differences then between the Fenix3 and the FR920XT becomes the additional more detailed navigation related functions found on the Fenix lineup that aren’t on the FR920XT.
The bands and watch materials:
Some of the biggest changes to the Fenix3 isn’t actually the software, but the hardware itself. It simply doesn’t look like any previous Garmin device…it actually looks physically attractive. The Fenix3 comes in three different models, which are:
Fenix3 Gray – $499/$549 with HR bundle (shown above left)
Fenix3 Silver – $499/$549 with HR bundle (shown above right)
Fenix3 Sapphire – $599, no HR included (shown above middle)
The Sapphire edition refers to the glass used on the exterior of the display, which is a harder material. It’s become popular with watch makers of late, as it implies being stronger. In reality, I’ve never heard of any recent non-Sapphire Garmin or Suunto high end GPS device actually having their display cracked/broken in regular (or even non-regular use). But to each their own.
In addition to the three Fenix3 models, there’s also a slew of different band options – which allows you to mix and match the different bands seen, including the metal band option seen below normally attached to the Sapphire unit.
Product Comparison Tool:
Now, it’s probably getting a bit confusing with some of these recent models as to how the FR920XT, Fenix3 and Epix all differ. In many ways, they’re basically the same base functionality with the material aspects of the watch and navigation capabilities being the difference. Here’s a nifty little over-simplified visual overview of the differences that I whipped up:
But, for those of you who are more spec oriented, here’s the full rundown of specs. Note that my charts don’t fully cover materials yet (like the glass front and band types), so this is more from a technical feature set level.
In many ways, I think the Fenix3 is cosmetically speaking what many FR920XT users have been asking for – something that doesn’t look like a plastic watch. And no doubt, with its weight and design, it certainly delivers there. But would-be consumers also got something they probably didn’t want: A $50 price jump over the FR920XT, or a $100 price jump over the Fenix lineup previously.
Garmin argues that the price bump is justified, saying: “Based on the comprehensive feature set and premium materials used, we had to put this at a higher price point. Fenix 3 uses stainless steel, a mineral glass or sapphire lens, and although the 920 is a great watch it’s all plastic.”
While I’m horrible at picking apart prices, I suspect that Garmin also feels that given semi-competitive offerings on the market are in the same price range, that they can probably charge more. While I think there’s some validity to that line of thought, we’re also seeing the floor drop out below connected watch makers as so many new entrants come onboard – be it Apple or other consumer electronic makers. Time will tell whether or not this works out for Garmin.
Still, the Fenix3 is an impressive watch. It is basically a FR920XT with advanced navigation features and a very clean external look, and to that end it does its job very well. While I’ve spent a bit of time toying with it, I’ll be waiting until I have a final production unit to make any final opinions on it. But, so far, so good.
Garmin is saying that the Fenix3 will ship in Q1 2015 (so by March), though it sounds like that might be quite a bit sooner rather than later. In any case, once I do have a final hardware and software version – expect about 3-4 weeks later for an in-depth review from me.
First though, here’s an 8-minute YouTube video I’ve put together walking through some features and allowing you to see the display quality and responsiveness a bit.
Fenix3 Video & Photo Galleries:
In addition, here’s three different galleries of Fenix3 photos I’ve shot, along with a video playlist that I’m constantly adding to. These are all shot on final hardware units. The videos are show mostly on final software Thus, there may be minor differences between now and release of the final software/firmware versions.
Video Playlist: This playlist starts with the final Fenix3 unit unboxing, and then moves into how it works, before going into videos on different Fenix3 functions. The little drop-down in the upper left allows you to change the video to other videos in the playlist. Keep checking back for new ones!
First Gallery: A mixed collection of shots
Second Gallery: Comparison Shots with a variety of watches
Fenix3 front, Fenix2 Center, Epix rear.
Fenix3 front, Epix in the back
Fenix2 front, Epix in the back
Vivoactive in the front, Fenix3 in back
Vivoactive in the front, Epix in the back.
Left to right: Fenix3, FR920XT, Vivoactive
Left to right: Fenix3, FR920XT, Vivoactive
Left to right: Epix, Fenix3, FR920XT, Vivoactive
Left to right: Polar V800, Fenix3
Left to right: Polar V800, Fenix3
Left to right: FR920XT, Polar V800, Fenix3
Front is Fenix3, back is Fenix2
Left to write: Suunto Ambit3 , Fenix3 Sapphire, Fenix3 Grey
Left to right: Suunto Ambit3, Fenix3 Sapphire
Left to wright: Suunto Ambit3, Fenix3 Grey
Left to right: Fenix3 Grey, Fenix3 Sapphire
Third Gallery: Just a lot of photos of the watch screens
This is just a boatload of photos from using the Fenix3, different sport modes, different layouts, different features and functions.
With that – thanks for reading, and feel free to drop any questions below (though to keep things tidy, try and keep this post for Fenix3 questions, and the Epix post for Epix questions).
Pre-Orders:
Note: You can pre-order the Fenix3 through Clever Training today (all three versions and associated bundles), as well as various accessory bands. The units will ship as soon as Garmin starts shipping, which is currently slated for Q1 2015.
It just depends on how much you value accurate temperature readings off the skin. For most people, it doesn’t likely matter. For some, it’s more important.
Garmin have emailed Cotswold Outdoor HQ today and apparently the release has been delayed. It’s been (tentatively) pushed back to next week, but this is obviously subject to change.
Hopefully this means that the devices will come preloaded with improved firmware and less issues out of the gate, rather than it just being held up in transit and sitting on a dock in Taiwan… which I guess is equally feasible.
My local store (Central London) where I’m waiting for it to be delivered. The guy on the phone made it clear that an email had been received notifying them if the delay, but that this can change… Happy it’s gone the other way! Especially after calling Garmin UK and being told they expecting a mid March release.
It’s a shame that CO cancelled my order with no notification. After e-mails and phone calls you still haven’t reinstated the order. I think I’ll wait for Amazon to stock it now.
I always order a backup charger and wanted the silver watch face but not the red band, so i made a second order to CT(on the vip program) for the pre-order on the black band for the F3 and a spare charger. Of course I ordered a TShirt to aid in some marketing for CT. The band was on pre-order with the same Feb 19th timeline as the watch. So now I am sitting here wearing my CT tshirt, starting at a F3 band and watching F3 videos really hoping I ordered early enough to get on the first order out for CT. : )
Forgive me if it’s already posted (I’m on mobile) but CT has received them :) just got this email
……………..
Thank you for your recent pre-order and anticipation of the release for the Garmin Fenix 3. Good news, we have started to receive shipments of the Garmin Fenix 3 units and are working to fulfil the first set of orders! We have a second shipment arriving next week and we’re expecting to see more units the following week. As units become available we will continue to fulfill orders based on the date in which each order was placed. As soon as your order is processed, we will notify you with the tracking information for your convenience as well as continue to update you on the status of availability each Friday until your order has been fulfilled. If you have any questions regarding your pre-order, please contact our customer service department at sales@clevertraining.com.
I just got the following update from Clever Training (my order was back on Jan 10th).
Dear Joseph,
Thank you for your recent pre-order and anticipation of the release for the Garmin Fenix 3. Good news, we have started to receive shipments of the Garmin Fenix 3 units and are working to fulfil the first set of orders! We have a second shipment arriving next week and we’re expecting to see more units the following week. As units become available we will continue to fulfill orders based on the date in which each order was placed. As soon as your order is processed, we will notify you with the tracking information for your convenience as well as continue to update you on the status of availability each Friday until your order has been fulfilled. If you have any questions regarding your pre-order, please contact our customer service department at sales@clevertraining.com.
Just got off the horn with CT, looks like the first batch of orders they got today were for the Sapphire model only and have already all been allocated. They also mentioned that another small batch is expected next week, however, they will likely all be of one style. Finger crossed that its a batch of grey units (I ordered the grey model on 1/6/15)!
1/7 early evening Sapphire order here still hoping they are “fulfilling” mine. Got the standard email nothing else yet. Been checking way more than I should.
Same here, I ordered my Sapphire on 1/7 but I ordered an additional wrist band and charger. Hope they understand that it’s the watch that I am really waiting for and that the rest can be shipped later (to make sure I just reached out to them).
Now I’m just angry with myself that I didn’t pay for next day delivery…
Did anyone notice how Amazon USA has been changing availability dates? last week and for a while it was March 1, three days it was April 10 and now it is April 13. Not sure what is going on. I am more included to cancel my order (since Jan 10) and wait until the start of my next marathon training in June or July. My April 12 will be missed and I won’t wear it until I have run with it at least a couple of long run.
Keep in mind that virtually all online retailers on the internet that show availability dates on their site, are doing so for new orders, not existing orders. Thus, in the case of Amazon, this would be for a new order placed at that time.
For the purpose of info sharing. My order was placed on Jan 23 (not Jan 10 like stated before), still Amazon is not giving me an estimated shipping date for my existing order from that date. I get the usual message: “We need a little more time to provide you with a good estimate….”. My order is for Gray bundle
Ah, I didn’t see it until I turned on 1-click buying. I ordered the sapphire from Amazon on Jan 18th and still no update on a shipping date. I ordered my accessories from CT. Thanks for all the great info Ray!
I saw somewhere a Clever Training Jan 5 sapphire guy that didn’t get word of shipping yet. Their email said “working to fulfill” so either they only got very few and couldn’t even get through first day orders or perhaps they simply just didn’t get them out yet. I’m hoping that’s the case anyways. Ray indicated they would turn them around right away but perhaps they got them too late in the day yesterday to get them back out same day. The good news at least is things are definitely happening and hopefully in the next couple weeks all of us that have been waiting over a month will have our new toys in hand.
For those of us waiting in the U.S.A. Not sure if you were all aware, but the entire West Coast has been having Port Labor Union work stoppages and are not off-loading freighters the last two weeks; REI even stated that many of their products for receipt & delivery have been pushed back for this very reason.
I’ve got a Jan 5th order for the Sapphire; haven’t heard anything yet. I’m assuming they ran out of time yesterday to turn things around with the shipping companies. I’ve waited this long I can wait a little longer :)
Where do you these are being made? of course their shipping across the Pacific, plus this was confirmed from REI”s headquarters. I placed my Order back in early January, live in CAL, and following up continuously because they keep pushing the date, then REI mentioned the West Coast Port issues, and the the light came on… Lol
The West Coast port issues would have no impact on Fenix3’s. All Garmin products are made in Taiwan (except a handful of Marine/Aviation units made in the USA)*. Early in product cycles, Garmin uses air shipping to get products to Olathe, not ships. Eventually once they catchup, they switch over to containers.
Note that last week was the Chinese New Year, which does include Taiwan and was why the Garmin Factor was shut down for 7 days.
On the CT shipping, they arrived at roughly 2PM yesterday, and went directly back out again to customers (they did actually text me a photo of one Sapphire box in hand).
Obviously, it doesn’t yet appear as there is any overlap between the 168 subscribers of this post’s comments and the lucky ones from yesterday. But, it’s also only been about 24 hours…perhaps those people aren’t quite as attached to the interwebs as the rest of us.
Ray, all due respect and many Thanks for absolutely everything (I’ve learned so much from your Blogs and Reviews), and I hope that is the case, but according to the very same link you posted regarding Garmin shipments, they do ship by Freight from Taiwan….
“Once everything is ready for production, the folks in Olathe hand it over to the folks in Taiwan to build. Garmin runs its own manufacturing facilities there, which produce the majority of Garmin products (exceptions seen later in the ‘Odds and Ends’ section). As noted, most technology companies partner with various companies in Asia to do the actual build – simply due to lack of demand to own and run a manufacturing facility 24×7.
The units are then shipped from Taiwan to Vancouver via ship (except rare occasions via aircraft for catch-up/late products). From Vancouver, the products make their way across the border via truck to Olathe. In Olathe, distribution occurs in the massive warehouse below out to various retailers (or external distributors). The warehouse can house two 747’s end to end.”
Hence may be why our REI Headquarters Reps are advising that the Union Labor Port Delays are their Reason for their delayed Fenix 3 shipments to their U.S. Customers that should have already been delivered to those in the queue all the way through yesterday? Not trying to stir a debate, my intent is to only advise REI customers as to why our U.S. delivery dates continue to push back from week to week, and now are citing March and even early April now…. (Fingers crossed, your sources are correct, believe me I am just as Anxious to receive my Saphire Fenix 3 as everyone else.)
Because you missed the part where it says: “except rare occasions via aircraft for catch-up/late products”. ;)
I don’t know why REI is saying that the west coast delay, since there is little basis for it. Like any big company, different REI reps often speculate on things to get people off a phone, those messages aren’t consistent. Garmin has virtually never boat-shipped first release products. Second, the quantities produced for the first and second shipments are so small it’d cost more to load a container than it would to fly.
Ultimately, any advice on dates is mostly still a guesstimate since Garmin hasn’t released weekly quantity distributions (they never actually do).
In which Intervall does the F3 shows the actual pace? I read about the 920xt that they will show the pace online in 5 sec steps. Does the F3 do this the same?
I wonder why there a many apps in the IQ Store who will show the pace in a 1 sec Intervall.
Yes the 920 is in 5 sec increments. Apparently all the newer garmins are the same. My Fenix 2 did it as well. So we’d have to assume the Fenix 3 would be too
I use Lap Pace with Lap set to 1 mile on my 620, avoids looking down during a time aberration during instant pace and gives a better idea how I am doing.
I use actual pace but really don’t like it compared to the way the 310 and 910 showed 1 sec actual pace but it looks like all Garmin running watches will be like this from now on
thanks for another great review :)
i have just ordered the new Garmin Fenix 3 and cannot wait till it arrives (delivery date feb 28)
now i have a question,sofar i has been using the trainingplans from endomondo just exporting that from endo as TCX files and uploading to my garmin 310xt via training center..
how can i get those files into the new Fenix ? or is that at all possible
Just received a Cotswoldoutdoor update, which I didn’t expected, so that’s nice:
“Good Morning,
We are aware that you are still awaiting the delivery of your pre order for the Fenix 3 Performer GPS HRM.
Unfortunately whilst we were been able secure all of the stock available for the UK from the initial delivery, Garmin was not able to deliver the full quantity that we had ordered. We have therefor allocated the stock based on date order and unfortunately this means that we are unable to send you your Fenix 3 from this first batch. Garmin UK are expecting additional stock by mid-March and we will keep you updated as we find out more detail from them. Garmin have assured us that our confirmed customer pre orders will take top priority from the next batch that they receive.
Please accept our apology for the delay but given the high demand and limited supply we would advise at this stage that you retain your pre-order with us to maintain your place in the queue. Please be assured that we will do our very best to expedite delivery of your Fenix 3 as soon as more stock becomes available to us.
If you wish to discuss this further, please do not hesitate to contact us.
Kind Regards
Ben
The Cotswold Team”
I don’t take the part of “Garmin have assured us that our confirmed customer pre orders will take top priority from the next batch that they receive” so seriously.. but still a nice thought :).
And I’m also not surprised because I only ordered mid Feb, 15th I think, so: thumbs up and keep on waiting and yearning for my F3 :)
+1, just received the same email. FWIW I placed my order on 26th January.
However, I called CO just before getting the email and was told that their first batch is being delivered from Garmin today, and they have another batch arriving on 3rd March… Here’s hoping I make it onto that shipment.
Still gutter that I sold me F2 quite so early. Although resorting to running with my phone has certainly been an eye opener.
Sorry for the delay, but on the other hand it make me feel better of having cancelled my pre-order (mostly due to a preference in look for the 920xt, which I know lots of readers/writers here won’t agree).
Just spoke to them – I am in the first batch (yippee!) – it was a Sapphire ordered on 12/1. They said I would have it by the end of next week though, which seemed a bit of a delay, though she said they are sent next day delivery as soon as they have them, so may be earlier than that. She said her colleague was just working through sending all the emails out…
Yes that makes sense though she definitely said it was the first batch – I don’t think they have them yet – they just have notification of what they are getting from Garmin (200 watches I think she said) – and I think they are just being cautious by saying end of next week, but time will tell :)
“We are aware you are still awaiting the delivery of your pre order for Fenix 3 Sapphire GPS HRM.
As you may be aware, we have experienced some delays with the supplier but you should take receipt of your unit towards the end of this week or beginning of next week.”
I have been trying to find out in the manual how the Fenix 3 handles calorie counting when using it as an activity monitor.
I am using a Garmin 610 and a Fitbit today trying to lose the last extra kilos and with that combination I am supposed to add up calories from exercises and steps.
On the Fenix 3 I guess that should be handled automatically, counting base calorie burn plus extra from movement, with better accuracy when doing a workout with HR monitor.
What confuses me though is that there is no clear explanation in the manual (or elsewhere) that I have found.
Has someone seen an explanation from Garmin or if not is this something that Ray may add as part of his review?
+1. Very curious as well. I am looking to consolidate devices. I currently have a Fenix 2, Fitbit one and Basis Peak (which is shortly going back to Rei toward purchase of F3 or Epix, once they have their 20% member discount) I am amazed at how close calorie metrics are between the Peak and Fitbit devices, even though fitbit does not have the 24/7 heart rate monitoring. If Garmin is in the same ballpark all the more reason to upgrade, besides all if the other said reasons :)
Sorry the double post. I was not aware of the member discount not applying to activity trackers/gps watches etc. Is this new? My Basis Peak was ordered mid November 2014.
I believe the REI restriction is on GPS devices, and the Basis Peak doesn’t have GPS, does it? The F3 would be restricted.
As for activity tracking, between the Fitbit One, Jawbone Up, and Garmin, they’re all pretty close. Most to least generous in that order. F3 has replaced my F2 and Vivosmart.
Steps, calories, etc all get broken down by activity in Garmin Connect. The algorithms are not published, to my knowledge.
Thanks for clearing that up. At least the returning of the Peak will effectively reduce the price of whichever gps device I eventually decide to purchase. Waiting on F3 and/or Epix full reviews :)
Interesting that the Basis Peak was included; being online it may have slipped through the cracks.
Here’s info from the 2014 anniversary (spring) 20% sale: link to slickdeals.net
Activity trackers were specifically excluded then but were not in prior years as I recall. GPS devices have been excluded for quite some time.
I confirmed with REI a few months ago that the 20% off member discount does not apply to Garmin products. I certainly wished it did, but as you see on their website you would qualify for a $50 dividend come next year!
I just looked at the exclusions for the Fall 2014 member discount and it appears gps units were excluded but it did not mention activity trackers. link to goo.gl
I don’t know if I should go for this one, or wait for the Ambit 4? I’ve always been a fan of the Ambit series and it seems like this one is still a bit pricey for its feature set + it doesn’t really bring something new that is really relevant to me. Anyone here that has experience going from an Ambit 3 to this and tell me why he thinks this one is better?
Out of the box they mostly do the same thing (lot’s of little differences) but Garmin’s (Connect IQ) field, widget, app platform seems WAY more powerful than what Suunto is providing. If the Fenix 3 is even half as popular as the demand seems to be I imagine there will be a very large set of unique “features” that become available by third-parties.
I have never had an ambit but always been close to buying one but the lack of a proper workout features has always put me off. It something once you’ve lived with & used its hard to live without.
Having played in the Suunto Ambit playground for a few months, there were some striking differences to me.
1. No vibration alerts
2. Inability to configure watch without Movescount and internet access
3. Inability to add alerts. On the Garmin it’s child play to add an alert every 10 minutes to remind me to drink or add alerts for HR to high, Power to high, cadence to low..etc
4. Inability to make custom workouts
5. Pool swimming was a travesty out of the box.
6. Apps on the app store were pretty lame and IMO were necessary to add functionality that was missing in the device.
However It DID look better then any Garmin watch…..until now.
As for price, I’ve always found the Suunto watches to be more expensive then their Garmin counterparts. I can’t imagine the Ambit 4 will undercut the fēnix3 by much.
sorry for the lame colleague of mine: who has no interest in such a watch, what so ever. Sorry you guys had to wast energy on his question while he is being totally uninterested and probably laughing at the many responses he didn’t expect… some people never grow a brain or respect :)
Sorry for not reading through the 2,000 comments but I’m wondering about the metal band of the Sapphire model. In my mind all I can see is being bald on that part of my wrist because the hairs have gotten eaten up by the band. The metal band itself retails for $129 on the Garmin site so I’d hate to order the most expensive watch they have only to change out the band to the plastic one when I could have saved money and ordered the base model.
How is that metal band? I wonder what the long-term effects of sweat and salt will do to it. Looks like it picks up fingerprints well . Seems like one of those things where you can’t have a watch that takes a beating when you run/bike and yet looks good when you’re out to dinner. Appreciate any feedback.
I’ve been running with my phone and a pebble steel (with a stainless steel band) and this has convinced me going with a steel band on a sports watch is a bad idea because:
1) I have it sized so it can slide about about 3cm, but even with a little give, when I put it on over a long-sleeves wool shirt (with thumb holes) it’s uncomfortably tight and even seems to lower blood circulation (and that hand gets colder). So for half the year (I live in Minnesota) I’d have to either to choose to put an extra link back in and have a baggy watch for “every-day” use or an uncomfortable watch for running.
2) I hear there’s not a good way to attach the Fenix 3 to a bike when using the steel band (the Garmin bike mount doesn’t work with it?)
3) Nothing really beat’s plastic for cleaning off sweat and grime.
I have been thinking about this and I wonder if using an insert under the band made of foam or similar material might not be a great accessory. Basically used to tighten for use during activities while leaving looser for every day wear. Might try making a protype if / when I actually get an F3.
That could address my main annoyance. I also think a a stretch metal band like: link to amazon.com
could provide a good compromise between form and functionality.
Hey you are right. When I looked on the accessories page on Garmin it was right there directly below the Quick Connect called “Leave it on your Wrist”…. Even more savings.
I did not see any mention of using another brand of HRM with the F3 to get running dynamics other than just BPM. I have a Wahoo Ticker R HRM and wondering if the F3 will be able to calculate running dynamics. Does anyone know the answer to that question? Thanks!
You won’t get running dynamics – just cadence from the watch and HR from the tickr. As I understand it Garmin have not opened up running dynamics to other companies.
Ray..dumb question but maybe you know the answer. I see on the Vivoactive it will connect with the golf approach courses Garmin supports. Will the Fenix do that by any chance?
Ok, so here is my dilemma…Have a Garmin Edge 800 and a Suunto Ambit 2s…..and I am getting sick and tired of having 2 devices….I know the Ambit 2s can do cycling…..but since I have had it is has way over calculated speed and distance…..I am also tired of uploading the data from 2 devices to Garmin Connect for my tri coach to analyze as most, if not all of the time….the FIT files never upload correctly to Connect.
I am considering selling both the Suunto Ambit 2s and the Edge 800 and buying either the Fenix 2 or 3….
For Triathlon training and analysis, I want to go with one device…..I don’t care which model I get but it seems like the 3 being newer would be the better choice….but for $100 less I can pickup a Fenix 2 now….instead of waiting for the 3 to ship….
I read alot of negative stability comments on the Fenix 2 however, so now I am torn….any thoughts?
I owned a Fenix 2 and likde a lot of things about it until I started having GPS issues (wouldn’t lock onto sats) combined with some hardware limitations like live tracking and no hr monitoring. With that said I have pre-ordered a Fenix 3. My advice if you decide to go with the F2 would be to buy it from someone like REI that has a reasonable return policy if you have any issues with it. I will say that some of the limitations that the F2 seem to have been resolved with the F3 (most notably the simultaneous ant+ and Bluetooth issue). I’ve never dealt with clever training like advertised on the site so I have no experience with their return policy but REI gave me back my money no questions asked. Good luck
Hi Chris, if you primarily want the watch for tri training, I would go the 920xt. Its form is more suited to training over looks (that being said it is better looking than the 910xt and I loved my 910xt, used it for cycling (sold my 500 to get it), running and swimming). A quick release kit is will no doubt come out for it, would not bank on the Fenix 3 getting one. It is lighter. The buttons on the front are easier to use when doing intervals (be they swimming or running)..
That being said, I am getting the Fenix 3 because all I really want/need it for, training wise, is swimming (I have a 210 for running and a 510 for cycling). You may miss the extra screen size of the 800 but the auto uploading of data really is awesome..
Jason’s comment is the first I have ever heard on the HR problem front. I’ve had 2 F2’s on which I have recorded at least 100 Activities wearing any of four different HRM’s without any problems whatsoever on that front.
I really only have two problems with my current F2. 1) it occasionally corrupts a fit file and takes a dump (aka locks up, freezes, auto-reboots, auto-pauses an activity. I have experienced this with two separate F2’s now but Ray says I’m just lucky that way. 2) the sensors cannot be configured for specific activities so if, for instance, the foot pod is turned on in settings but not present at start you will get no speed and no distance while running, hiking, kayaking, skating even with a perfect satellite lock. I am waiting to see if these two shortcomings have been solved in the f3.
If I were a tri-guy—as you obviously are coach and all—I think it would be a no brainer to buy the 920 which already has a quick release. The only real advantage the F3 seems to enjoy over the 920 is that it is better looking and even then, it is still a $500 plastic watch.
The limitation of no heart rate while using live tracking is a known hardware limitation as the unit cannot use ant+ and Bluetooth simultaneously. Your either able to use livetrack or monitor your heart rate but not both concurrently. Additionally the unit will not record ant+ sensors while in ultra-trac mode either. The F3 from my understanding will allow both ant+ and Bluetooth to be used at the same time. Not sure if it will allow the hrs recording while in ultratrac mode or not.
Frank, thanks for the guidance…I am thinking the 920 may be the way to go…..I am not overly concerned about the “appearance”…..Hell I wear my Ambit 2S daily…and it is not “pretty”….
This is the answer that I received from CT today. I ordered on Jan 13
“Thank you for your inquiry and patience in processing this order. Unfortunately the units recently received were the Sapphire version and have already been allocated. We do expect another small shipment this week and will continue to work through our queue. I am not told what style or quantity will be included in this shipment at this time. Once we are able to fulfill your order, we will update you with tracking for your convenience. “
This is the answer that I received from CT today. I ordered on Jan 13
Thank you for your inquiry and patience in processing this order. Unfortunately the units recently received were the Sapphire version and have already been allocated. We do expect another small shipment this week and will continue to work through our queue. I am not told what style or quantity will be included in this shipment at this time. Once we are able to fulfill your order, we will update you with tracking for your convenience.
Today’s answer from CT. I ordered on Jan 13
Thank you for your inquiry and patience in processing this order. Unfortunately the units recently received were the Sapphire version and have already been allocated. We do expect another small shipment this week and will continue to work through our queue. I am not told what style or quantity will be included in this shipment at this time. Once we are able to fulfill your order, we will update you with tracking for your convenience.
Wohoo, just got an email from Cotswolds: “We are pleased to advise that your recently placed order with us has been despatched for delivery”
Ordered the Grey HRM on Jan 20.
Thanks to whoever shared the discount code…
That is exciting, it means Garmin have started shipping Grey models.. Saweet… Great you will have yours to play with very soon.. I am jealous..
I predict emails from CT within a week announcing early orderers should start watching out for the courier.. ;-)
Disclaimer: Please don’t take my prediction as gospel and continue to manage your expectations… I have no idea when CT will actually be getting their first delivery… Just going out on a limb and making a prediction…
After receiving an email saying it was going to be delivered around mid-March, I just received an order dispatched email from Cotswold Outdoor… Not sure what’s going on but happy if it does turn up tomorrow. Will keep you posted. :-)
So, having let doubt get the better of me, after yesterday’s email and not being able to pull up the tracking details online… I decided to give CO a call for confirmation. Although I’m still down as a mid-late March recipient, my order has been processed and dispatched. Maybe they got lucky and had an earlier shipment arrive from Garmin, or maybe a bunch of people cancelled and I got bumped up the list… in any case, it’s in the delivery system and should be with me tomorrow.
I don’t think I can remember a time when I was this hung up about receiving a toy, but hey, it’s still fun right. ;-)
On the Garmin website it states that the Fenix 3 does not have auto lap. The 920XT does. What does this mean? When running, it will not trigger when you completed a lap and the pace of that lap? This is something I definitely need when running a race.
But where to find the manual? I see all other manuals on Garmin.com just no F3 manual. Or Quick Start for that matter. I really want to read it thoroughly before placing my order.
Just rang 99 Bikes in Australia who have it at the cheapest local price on pre-order.
Asked when they expect them in, they rang the supplier and got back to me to say within a couple of days!…
So I placed an order for the Grey bundle .
Looking forward to this, as my previous watch was a Suunto Ambit 2
99 Bikes have my Bundle in.
They actually had it last week, apparently tried to get a hold of me.
No problems though will be picking it up tonight. Hopefully it won’t be to difficult to master coming from an Ambit 2.
99 Bikes contacted me on Tue 3rd March to say it would be in stock at the supplier by Fri 6th and they should expect to receive it by 11th March so not too much longer for me to wait now.
Well early adopters should expect a few teething issues on a new product. As long as the hardware is solid everything else can be fine tuned over time with software/firmware updates.
I know many of you have been trying to ferret out all the tiny software differences between the Fenix3 and past Fenix units, as well as the FR920XT.
As part of my In-Depth Review, I’ve compiled a table of all the differences I could find. I then had the Fenix product team validate this table. Finally, in an effort to ensure no stone is left unturned, I’m putting a draft version of this table at the below link
If you have specific changes related to that table, please post them in the comments section of that specific post. Definitely happy to ensure it’s fully accurate before the review. Note that upon publishing of the review next week, I’ll remove that draft page and it’ll be incorporated into the review itself. Thanks!
REI online rep just typed that garmin has pushed out date again and rei is expecting gray/hrm bundle units mar 13, the rep said i wont have it until mar 18
Beginning of Feb. However since then the est date has changed from mar 1 to feb 27 to mar 4 to mar 1 to mar 18. Kind of all over the place. Meanwhile I also have an order with CT.
We, those the faithful that pre-ordered from CT, will get our F3 eventually. We will likely never know, but perhaps CT got their bulk pre-orders into Garmin later/after than REI and Cotswords, and Walmart, and everyone else that seems to be starting shipping on these. Thus, they (and we) are all delayed because the CT bulk order is being filled in the order Garmin got all the other bulk orders in.
Thinking you hit the nail on the head. REI had a huge “pre-order” (and others) prior to CT order therefore now why we are seeing people that ordered from REI in February already having theirs shipped while finally yesterday did we see a 1/5 CT person getting a shipping notice. I’m 1/7 and nothing yet. I called there today to be told no dice on shipping this week. I called because I am going on a business trip next week for a couple weeks and once hearing that I changed my shipping address to the hotel. Hopefully the thought of having to switch it back if nearing the end of the trip without shipping will not have to happen.
So far I’m very impressed. The build quality is fantastic and although there’s not a huge difference in weight from the F2, it seems to be distributed far better, so it feels lighter.
Took a while for the first GPS fix… Is there a way to preset a geographical area, to speed up the GPS/GLONAS lock?
I think it stores the satellite positions from your last GPS fix, so unless you have flown somewhere, future fixes should be faster. Also I believe it caches the satellite map for the next week each time it connects to WiFi.
I am torn between the sapphire model and the silver model. How much validity is there behind the anti scratch with sapphire vs what is offered on the silver model? The extra money isn’t an issue, but I like the look of the silver bezel.
I read your comment: “The Sapphire edition refers to the glass used on the exterior of the display, which is a harder material. It’s become popular with watch makers of late, as it implies being stronger. In reality, I’ve never heard of any recent non-Sapphire Garmin or Suunto high end GPS device actually having their display cracked/broken in regular (or even non-regular use). But to each their own.”
I am new to the multi sport watch market and have never owned a garmin, Has scratching (not concerned with “broken or cracked” as mentioned above) the face been an issue with previous garmin models? (fenix 2 or others: assuming the glass is similar to what is offered in the fenix 3 silver). Also, why is it that the numbers are more bold 1-15 on the sapphire model?
Re the saphire debate – I currently own a non saphire Suunto Ambit2. I am not gentle with it. I train for and race in off road duathlons and triathlons and wear it to crossfit class 3 days a week. After 2 years I have 2 tiny scratches on the face that are only visible from a certain angle. The next watch I get will be saphire, but if you take better care of your stuff than I do, I wouldn’t think it necessary.
I have a fr610 that I trail run, MTN Bike and OCR in.
I do have some fine scratches in the face of the device.
To be clear, these scratches are not impairing the ability to read the device, it’s just bad enough to where I would want to wear it “out on the town” or an everyday watch.
This will probably make some of you happy and others sad. I placed an REI order on 2/3 and got my notification that the item is at the store ready for pickup today. I live in WA, near REI’s distribution centers (or at least one of them). Sapphire version if it helps solve the mess Garmin got themselves into with this launch.
@Iovmac, Frustrating ;) I ordered a Gray HR bundle on Jan 14 from REI and mine hasn’t shipped yet. I think the supply to demand ratio was better for the Sapphire (and maybe the non-bundled units). REI said in a live chat session that it could ship 2/27 though.
@Sameer, that question seems hugely dependent on the individual. I think it’s too big for me to want to wear it as an everyday watch but the additional size allows for a larger screen, larger buttons and a bigger battery, which I suspect will make it tremendously more useable while engaged in physical activities (which seems like the use-case garmin should optimize for).
1/19 -False alarm!!
I recently added an item to the order. a garmin/speed & cadence sensor that just shipped and my order says completed. Called up and it’s still backordered.
oh well – we’ll just have to wait for REI to full all their orders. ha
I just got word that wildfire Sports in Australia have sent out all preorders for the sapphire model. They even have a few spare. No word on grey or red.
It is quite large, but it’s very light, once you’ve had it on for a few minutes you tend to forget about it. I think it will have to go over top some of the tighter fitting compression tops :) but that’s fine.
I am really interested about a picture I saw on the Garmin/Fenix website that shows a picture of the watch with it displaying “push-up’s” on the screen of the watch. However, I can’t find the “push-up’s” app. has anyone found this? here is a link to the picture on the Garmin website… link to fenix3.garmin.com If you scroll to the “connect IQ” section you will see it. Where can I get this pushup app? Any type of weight training app would be great but I haven’t found anything like it in connectIQ.
I can’t help with the app, but I can say that looks like a timer, not a counter. It looks like they are doing an interval work out, and have 23 seconds left on their push-ups interval, and then it is time to run.
I just also purchased the F2 in September. I expected the F3 to be around eventually but as with any device I usually always wait at least 2 cycles before “upgrading”. Otherwise unless you need a specific feature, which you probably do not, the F2 is a damn fine gps device.
yes I remove the links out of my watch band right away. What you want to do is take an equal amount of links off of each side. If you don’t the watch won’t conform to your wrist correctly. I only thought I’d have to take off two links but I actually had to take off four links for an average sized wrist. The links push out if you look at the back of the watchband you will see arrows on the links that are able to be removed. Push the pins out in the direction of the arrows and the pin will pop out. I used a lead pencil to push the pins out. A paperclip may also work but like I said I just used a lead pencil without any lead in it. It’s actually very easy
Ray, could you add REI under your “Buy Now:” (left column) as a 3rd option, as I’m already an REI member, and would also like to support your site w/ my Fenix 3 Saphire purchase.
Bah, I just got an email from REI saying my order for a Gray HR bundle on Jan 14th was canceled (while the Fenix3 is still available for order on their website!) This is after I sent them an email explicitly stating I wanted to keep my pre-order active. I called them and they said there was “no way” I could be put back in the order queue but I could place a new order (and start at the end again…)
On the bright side I’ll probably be supporting Ray via Clever Training now. I typically buy things from REI because I respect their customer service but not so much any more…
Thanks for the heads up. After posting here I think I saw a post you made about it in a Garmin forum. It’s such bizarre (bad) behavior coming from a company that I’ve typically been happy with. I sent them a strongly-word but civil email about it and am curious what kind of response I’ll get. This will be my first sports watch and I was pretty excited… Now I wonder how many more weeks I’ll be waiting.
can you chose which notification is send to you phone (Iphone in this case) and which you don’t want to have?? Because I can’t find it any where.. also not on my phone
for exmaple, messenger, yeah I don’t need that one on my watch…
Second: emails, only just of 1 account, is it possible?
You can actually does this on iPhone. Settings > notifications > select the app (or mail then the account) then if you have a banner on the the watch gets those notifications. Simples! :)
Oh I see – personally – configuring different notifications for phone and watch is step too far. Not sure I would ever need that. Works great as it is for me on iPhone (I have Android and WP too, but iPhone is my favourite – of course YMMV)
I’m just going to delete most notifications! It only takes up your time and attention! It gives your social/phone addiction (if you have one, me a little bit) just more juice!
Only work related emails (if that works) are going on there, and text + phone! no more messenger, whatsapp and all that stuf! :). Making life simpler and more relaxed!
On the iPhone in settings only notifications that have a banners are put on the watch. You can still have applications notify you on the phone only, just don’t give them a banner.
You can customize banners to your hearts delight.
You can have a single email account go to your watch. You can even have only specific people show up on your watch (If you make them VIPs and give VIP banners)
Olu,
While generally true, it is actually only items that end up in the “Notification Center” end up going to the watch. I have at least two items where the “banner setting” doesn’t match “going to the watch”.
1. App updates. Whenever the App store updates an App, it throws that info into the notification center, even without a banner. So those show up on the watch when I get home to my WiFi.
2. For some reason Exchange e-mail banners do not show up in the notification center unless the conversation is marked “Notify Me” or the sender is a VIP (and VIP notifications are turned on).
But yes, generally you can customize what gets sent to the watch, but it has to (sort of) match the banners on the phone.
I’ve noticed the App store updates coming through. Apple apps are notorious for annoyingly not following the rules.
I have 2 exchange accounts, I’ll give those a try and see what happens. I generally use the VIP function for email notifications. I just don’t want emails going to my watch (except for my wife and a select few).
I’m not sure sbout point 1 (I’m going to test) but point 2 is certainly not my experience with our Exchange account – it works exactly like you’d expect (it’s office 365 but I don’t think that makes a difference here) so strange you are getting that. For clarity the settings I have in Notifications > Mail > Exchange Settings are:
Show in notification centre : on
Notification sound : none
Badge app icon: on
Show in lock screen: off
Alert style when unlocked: banners
The garmin connect app needs to handle these option form my point of view.. (probably is so with the android version).. makes it a lot easier!
I can’t get a notification just on phone (always goes trough to my phone!)
I put just allow notification on, all the rest off, my watch still received it! (so: no sound, no badge app icon, no show on lock screen, no allert style when unlocked …) I get everything from that damn phone!
It’s all or notting!
for the mailing part, maybe I need to try that VIP thing, when I feel for it :), because all other setting, like the above don’t work!
Ian, you are correct. I didn’t drill into the account setting for my exchange mail. It did indeed have “show in Notification Center” turned off, with banners on. That will probably fix that issue for me.
On the previous screen all of my email said the same thing (Sounds, Badges, Banner). I didn’t realize there was a separate setting for Notification Center.
Hi Ray,
you say multiple bike support is present, it is only different then in the 910xt. How much different.
as I have an MTB (cadence only + tempe + hr), racing (cadence+speed + tempe + hr + power), touring (cadence+speed + hr + tempe). In summary that is a total of 6 different ant sensors (as tempe and hr are carried over).
Can i still make different bike profiles which will be auto recognised by the presence of the different cadence sensors?
I am still in big doubt between the 920 and fenix3, help me…. :) (do you have an estimation for the fenix in depth review?)
The way it works with the FR920XT/Fenix3 is that there’s a sensor pool. So you pair all your sensors once (from everything), and then when you head out on a ride, it just automatically picks up which ones have been turned on (because you moved the bike). In the event of a conflict, it simply asks you which ones to use for that ride.
It works beautifully, and is honestly the single best feature (in my mind) that Garmin implemented in 2014 (with the Edge 1000 initially).
The Fenix3 in-depth review will be out on or by next Thursday, March 5th.
Does that mean I can have different HR sensors and the watch automatically picks up the one that is present without any repairing? Currently with my Ambit 2 I can only pair either my Scoche Rhythm+ or the Suunto HRM.
Ray,
After REI frustrating canceled my Jan 14 (grey HR bundle), I placed an order with Clever Training. I hope this helps you continue with the excellent service you provide for the community.
While I stand totally behind support Ray for his outstanding site, I have to admit that I’m getting frustrated with CT at this point in time. Seeing that REI shipped F3 left and right and still having no idea when my Sapphire is finally shipping is a bit annoying. For those who preordered other devices (like the 920) with them – was it that bad before as well?
Ray, maybe you can add another site to your buying options? Or have a word with them on their communication strategy? I believe that everyone here loves what you do for the community of sports tech nerds and loves to support you, but CT is at this point just under par…
under pay compared to whom? garmin themselves hasn’t shipped their pre-order. amazon hasn’t. so REI got into the queue first. somebody had to be first and second, etc. has has been explained as nauseum is that garmin never has giant first shipments. just to guard against manufacturer issues.
I anxious to, but for pete’s sakes. Chill. it’s getting February. garmin said 1st quarter. that’s doesn’t end till end of March.
Communication is under par. Sending out the same email for weeks is less than I expect. Maybe I expect too much. Happy for you if your standard is lower.
On the other hand, I think it would be great if Ray had more referral sites, as many people who read his blog, still order from neither CT nor Amazon.
Trust me, there’s nothing more important at Clever Training. And, there’s nothing that we don’t talk about more. I talk to them about Fenix3 order status every morning when they wake up, every lunch time, and every time before they head to bed (well after they’ve left the office).
They’ve communicated as best as they possibly can (weekly) given the limited information that Garmin is providing. I’m optimistic we’ll see some solid movement in next week’s arrival, but they just don’t have the numbers yet to be sure on that. That’s one of the things I like about Clever – they aren’t going to lie to keep folks happy. Many other retailers keep promising things they can’t deliver. CT is only promising the details Garmin provides them (+ a fluff factor for Garmin’s delays). Sometimes, Garmin doesn’t hit their delivery estimates, unfortunately, that’s not new.
It’s not a case of being ‘in the queue’ late. CT has a massive pre-order in there just like REI, well before product announcement. It’s really a case of a single individual at Garmin making the decision to grant REI the first shipment, without telling other retailers or even other Garmin employees.
All that said, I do very much appreciate the support of Clever Training, which in turn supports the site.
Fot anyone not happy with CT I don’t get it. The problem is out of their control and you’re getting the watch cheaper than anywhere else. Also I emailed support and got a response in less than 10 minutes. What more can you expect?
The problem I have with any company’s pre-order and/or back-order process, is that you are totally blind to how deep in line you are, not to mention any ETA’s. IF I’m number 4 of 400 or 395/400, this might help me decide whether or not I want to play that waiting game, especially if I’m paying up-front. At least if I physically pull up to a business, and see a line of people wrapped around the building, I’ll can easily decide whether or not to come back at a later date & time.
Hi Ray,
thank you for the background. I do appreciate that you do the community communication for CT. I do like CT, they are very responsive and very friendly – and you can see from the threads here and on Garmin Forums that REI is not golden throughout (cancelling pre-orders). So everyone can make their own choices where to (pre-) order. I stick with CT.
That doesn’t mean that I don’t think they could be better. I wish that they would provide the guidance that you provide here through email in their weekly email update rather than sending the same email week after week. Take this as constructive feedback and not as a rant against CT. Maybe my nerdy impatience got me.
So, all good I’ll be waiting – impatiently though :).
It is laughable sometimes. Garmin stated first quarter 2015. There is still over a month before that promise is missed. Although, technically they have hit the target as there have been shipments to those lucky few who went through REI. REI in this instance was chosen to receive the first batch (the guinea pigs so to speak)..
Next time around it will more than likely be another seller.
Anyone who placed an order with anyone should have set their expectations for end of March.
People are now acting like school kids because other people received theirs first.. Boo hoo.. #firstworldproblems I assume you are grownups.. If you really want a watch now, be a man and go get yourselves a Richard Mille..
Now, let me go check my email, see if the weekly update from CT has arrived yet (yes, I am excited about getting my watch.. But I realise I have to wait.. Half the fun)..
chill on the self righteous condescension. This is simply a poor release. This just isn’t how releases are handled in 2015. The fact that Garmin didn’t even know it had been released to rei until after the fact and then couldn’t even day when it would be released- and then all off a sudden their Twitter feed says it was released after their fact? It’s not that big of a deal, really, and I get your point on that, but people have a right to be annoyed with Garmin. Maybe you’re not-that’s fine too. But the fact is people nowadays expect more clarity as part of the pre-order process and Garmin clearly had no idea how to manage that.
I for one sure am irrationally excited. Maybe the review here will have some negative things to say about it and I’ll quit looking forward to it like a “school kid” looks forward to Christmas ;)
Dang. I just got the standard deal from CT/Garmin. The preorder I made, didnt come with promises of delivery timeframe. Didnt promise Jan/Feb or even March. Didnt promise timely communication, or really any. Didnt promise I would be jumped to the first in line, or because I bought a VIP membership I would be placed before the bulk orders from other stores, including the one that clearly had dibs on first shipments as they all but had a joint release party. Where did you guys order from, that promises from Garmin and CT were broken, and expectations we so far off. I only ask since I want to avoid ordering from them in the future. I’ll stick with CT and help support DC Ray. My F2 will just keep getting use into the new sheriff arrives. :)
Cool, I still don’t see how it is a poor release.. From what I read, before I placed my preorder, from readily available information was the F3 was expected Q1 2015. It is still Q1 2015 and a fair few folk out there are running/swimming/hiking/sleeping etc with their Fenix 3s.
Job done Garmin..
I look forward to next week, I think it could be the week… (fingers crossed)..
Ryan I totally agree with you! (sorry I am a lucky bastard that has his F3 already)
I order very late (15 feb) at Cotswoldoutdoor.. and I knew I would be waiting a long time! I got even more excited when people from REI got there watches! But I didn’t freak out and start dissing Garmin for that (that being a release before there annouced release.. So hell! Good job Garming)..
I got a email saying I won’t make the first batch: well obviously, I ordered the 15 and received the mail on 23.. So wasn’t surprised at all!
Then a day later I got another email: order was shipped…
So off course I’m happy… but if I had to wait another 2 weeks, well so be it.. It still in Q1..
It’s also like Ray says: CT doesn’t promise a date if they don’t got it from Garmin, which is a very good and professional thing!
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Is the tempe sensor useful with the f3?
It just depends on how much you value accurate temperature readings off the skin. For most people, it doesn’t likely matter. For some, it’s more important.
What are the differences between the HRM-Run and Soft Strap Premium Heart Rate Monitor?
Does one cause more or less chafing, as the one I use with my fr610, I need to wrap gauze around to prevent chafing on longer runs.
Are they comparible in accuracy?
This explains the differences: link to dcrainmaker.com
Ordered Fenix 3 via Clever Training two days ago! Thanks again for this blog and keep up the great work, please!
Thanks for the support Billy!
Hi Ray,
When we can have your Fenix3 in-depth review?
Looking forward into it…
Thanks in advance Ray…
I believe Ray said it would be around March 5th.
Ok noted thanks Bart & Ray..!!!
Garmin have emailed Cotswold Outdoor HQ today and apparently the release has been delayed. It’s been (tentatively) pushed back to next week, but this is obviously subject to change.
Hopefully this means that the devices will come preloaded with improved firmware and less issues out of the gate, rather than it just being held up in transit and sitting on a dock in Taiwan… which I guess is equally feasible.
Where did you get this info from David?
First stock arrived at Garmin UK today and we’ll be able to begin dispatching as soon as they reach our warehouse (which will be very soon).
Woohoo! Hope I’m in the first shipment (ordered 12th Jan!)
Cheers
Ian
Great News!
My local store where I’m waiting for it to be delivered…
My local store where I’m waiting for it to be delivered.
My local store (Central London) where I’m waiting for it to be delivered. The guy on the phone made it clear that an email had been received notifying them if the delay, but that this can change… Happy it’s gone the other way! Especially after calling Garmin UK and being told they expecting a mid March release.
Sorry about the dupes, my phone was saying there was an error posting.
It’s a shame that CO cancelled my order with no notification. After e-mails and phone calls you still haven’t reinstated the order. I think I’ll wait for Amazon to stock it now.
Is there any news regarding a replacement for the Tactix using a more modern base platform?
Ray,
I always order a backup charger and wanted the silver watch face but not the red band, so i made a second order to CT(on the vip program) for the pre-order on the black band for the F3 and a spare charger. Of course I ordered a TShirt to aid in some marketing for CT. The band was on pre-order with the same Feb 19th timeline as the watch. So now I am sitting here wearing my CT tshirt, starting at a F3 band and watching F3 videos really hoping I ordered early enough to get on the first order out for CT. : )
Forgive me if it’s already posted (I’m on mobile) but CT has received them :) just got this email
……………..
Thank you for your recent pre-order and anticipation of the release for the Garmin Fenix 3. Good news, we have started to receive shipments of the Garmin Fenix 3 units and are working to fulfil the first set of orders! We have a second shipment arriving next week and we’re expecting to see more units the following week. As units become available we will continue to fulfill orders based on the date in which each order was placed. As soon as your order is processed, we will notify you with the tracking information for your convenience as well as continue to update you on the status of availability each Friday until your order has been fulfilled. If you have any questions regarding your pre-order, please contact our customer service department at sales@clevertraining.com.
Kind Regards,
Clever Training Team
I just got the following update from Clever Training (my order was back on Jan 10th).
Dear Joseph,
Thank you for your recent pre-order and anticipation of the release for the Garmin Fenix 3. Good news, we have started to receive shipments of the Garmin Fenix 3 units and are working to fulfil the first set of orders! We have a second shipment arriving next week and we’re expecting to see more units the following week. As units become available we will continue to fulfill orders based on the date in which each order was placed. As soon as your order is processed, we will notify you with the tracking information for your convenience as well as continue to update you on the status of availability each Friday until your order has been fulfilled. If you have any questions regarding your pre-order, please contact our customer service department at sales@clevertraining.com.
Kind Regards,
Clever Training Team
Just got off the horn with CT, looks like the first batch of orders they got today were for the Sapphire model only and have already all been allocated. They also mentioned that another small batch is expected next week, however, they will likely all be of one style. Finger crossed that its a batch of grey units (I ordered the grey model on 1/6/15)!
Me too – What time on 1/6/15? :) JK.
1/7 early evening Sapphire order here still hoping they are “fulfilling” mine. Got the standard email nothing else yet. Been checking way more than I should.
Same here, I ordered my Sapphire on 1/7 but I ordered an additional wrist band and charger. Hope they understand that it’s the watch that I am really waiting for and that the rest can be shipped later (to make sure I just reached out to them).
Now I’m just angry with myself that I didn’t pay for next day delivery…
Did anyone notice how Amazon USA has been changing availability dates? last week and for a while it was March 1, three days it was April 10 and now it is April 13. Not sure what is going on. I am more included to cancel my order (since Jan 10) and wait until the start of my next marathon training in June or July. My April 12 will be missed and I won’t wear it until I have run with it at least a couple of long run.
Where do you see that? I have only seen “temporarily unavailable” since yesterday.
To the right below the button “Buy Now with 1 Click” it says
Delivery by Monday, April 13
(Free Shipping)
Keep in mind that virtually all online retailers on the internet that show availability dates on their site, are doing so for new orders, not existing orders. Thus, in the case of Amazon, this would be for a new order placed at that time.
For the purpose of info sharing. My order was placed on Jan 23 (not Jan 10 like stated before), still Amazon is not giving me an estimated shipping date for my existing order from that date. I get the usual message: “We need a little more time to provide you with a good estimate….”. My order is for Gray bundle
Ah, I didn’t see it until I turned on 1-click buying. I ordered the sapphire from Amazon on Jan 18th and still no update on a shipping date. I ordered my accessories from CT. Thanks for all the great info Ray!
Release date was March 1, still no estimated shipping from Amazon.
No shipping info for anyone from CT yet huh? Seems odd. Oh well, back to waiting.
I saw somewhere a Clever Training Jan 5 sapphire guy that didn’t get word of shipping yet. Their email said “working to fulfill” so either they only got very few and couldn’t even get through first day orders or perhaps they simply just didn’t get them out yet. I’m hoping that’s the case anyways. Ray indicated they would turn them around right away but perhaps they got them too late in the day yesterday to get them back out same day. The good news at least is things are definitely happening and hopefully in the next couple weeks all of us that have been waiting over a month will have our new toys in hand.
For those of us waiting in the U.S.A. Not sure if you were all aware, but the entire West Coast has been having Port Labor Union work stoppages and are not off-loading freighters the last two weeks; REI even stated that many of their products for receipt & delivery have been pushed back for this very reason.
I’ve got a Jan 5th order for the Sapphire; haven’t heard anything yet. I’m assuming they ran out of time yesterday to turn things around with the shipping companies. I’ve waited this long I can wait a little longer :)
I’d doubt Garmin is shipping these by sea.
Where do you these are being made? of course their shipping across the Pacific, plus this was confirmed from REI”s headquarters. I placed my Order back in early January, live in CAL, and following up continuously because they keep pushing the date, then REI mentioned the West Coast Port issues, and the the light came on… Lol
The West Coast port issues would have no impact on Fenix3’s. All Garmin products are made in Taiwan (except a handful of Marine/Aviation units made in the USA)*. Early in product cycles, Garmin uses air shipping to get products to Olathe, not ships. Eventually once they catchup, they switch over to containers.
Note that last week was the Chinese New Year, which does include Taiwan and was why the Garmin Factor was shut down for 7 days.
*Details on how the product lines work here: link to dcrainmaker.com
On the CT shipping, they arrived at roughly 2PM yesterday, and went directly back out again to customers (they did actually text me a photo of one Sapphire box in hand).
Obviously, it doesn’t yet appear as there is any overlap between the 168 subscribers of this post’s comments and the lucky ones from yesterday. But, it’s also only been about 24 hours…perhaps those people aren’t quite as attached to the interwebs as the rest of us.
Ray, all due respect and many Thanks for absolutely everything (I’ve learned so much from your Blogs and Reviews), and I hope that is the case, but according to the very same link you posted regarding Garmin shipments, they do ship by Freight from Taiwan….
“Once everything is ready for production, the folks in Olathe hand it over to the folks in Taiwan to build. Garmin runs its own manufacturing facilities there, which produce the majority of Garmin products (exceptions seen later in the ‘Odds and Ends’ section). As noted, most technology companies partner with various companies in Asia to do the actual build – simply due to lack of demand to own and run a manufacturing facility 24×7.
The units are then shipped from Taiwan to Vancouver via ship (except rare occasions via aircraft for catch-up/late products). From Vancouver, the products make their way across the border via truck to Olathe. In Olathe, distribution occurs in the massive warehouse below out to various retailers (or external distributors). The warehouse can house two 747’s end to end.”
Hence may be why our REI Headquarters Reps are advising that the Union Labor Port Delays are their Reason for their delayed Fenix 3 shipments to their U.S. Customers that should have already been delivered to those in the queue all the way through yesterday? Not trying to stir a debate, my intent is to only advise REI customers as to why our U.S. delivery dates continue to push back from week to week, and now are citing March and even early April now…. (Fingers crossed, your sources are correct, believe me I am just as Anxious to receive my Saphire Fenix 3 as everyone else.)
Because you missed the part where it says: “except rare occasions via aircraft for catch-up/late products”. ;)
I don’t know why REI is saying that the west coast delay, since there is little basis for it. Like any big company, different REI reps often speculate on things to get people off a phone, those messages aren’t consistent. Garmin has virtually never boat-shipped first release products. Second, the quantities produced for the first and second shipments are so small it’d cost more to load a container than it would to fly.
Ultimately, any advice on dates is mostly still a guesstimate since Garmin hasn’t released weekly quantity distributions (they never actually do).
In which Intervall does the F3 shows the actual pace? I read about the 920xt that they will show the pace online in 5 sec steps. Does the F3 do this the same?
I wonder why there a many apps in the IQ Store who will show the pace in a 1 sec Intervall.
Yes the 920 is in 5 sec increments. Apparently all the newer garmins are the same. My Fenix 2 did it as well. So we’d have to assume the Fenix 3 would be too
How is this in practice? Are you as well just relying on av mile pace for something like a race?
I use Lap Pace with Lap set to 1 mile on my 620, avoids looking down during a time aberration during instant pace and gives a better idea how I am doing.
I use actual pace but really don’t like it compared to the way the 310 and 910 showed 1 sec actual pace but it looks like all Garmin running watches will be like this from now on
Hi Ray
thanks for another great review :)
i have just ordered the new Garmin Fenix 3 and cannot wait till it arrives (delivery date feb 28)
now i have a question,sofar i has been using the trainingplans from endomondo just exporting that from endo as TCX files and uploading to my garmin 310xt via training center..
how can i get those files into the new Fenix ? or is that at all possible
Just received a Cotswoldoutdoor update, which I didn’t expected, so that’s nice:
“Good Morning,
We are aware that you are still awaiting the delivery of your pre order for the Fenix 3 Performer GPS HRM.
Unfortunately whilst we were been able secure all of the stock available for the UK from the initial delivery, Garmin was not able to deliver the full quantity that we had ordered. We have therefor allocated the stock based on date order and unfortunately this means that we are unable to send you your Fenix 3 from this first batch. Garmin UK are expecting additional stock by mid-March and we will keep you updated as we find out more detail from them. Garmin have assured us that our confirmed customer pre orders will take top priority from the next batch that they receive.
Please accept our apology for the delay but given the high demand and limited supply we would advise at this stage that you retain your pre-order with us to maintain your place in the queue. Please be assured that we will do our very best to expedite delivery of your Fenix 3 as soon as more stock becomes available to us.
If you wish to discuss this further, please do not hesitate to contact us.
Kind Regards
Ben
The Cotswold Team”
I don’t take the part of “Garmin have assured us that our confirmed customer pre orders will take top priority from the next batch that they receive” so seriously.. but still a nice thought :).
And I’m also not surprised because I only ordered mid Feb, 15th I think, so: thumbs up and keep on waiting and yearning for my F3 :)
+1, just received the same email. FWIW I placed my order on 26th January.
However, I called CO just before getting the email and was told that their first batch is being delivered from Garmin today, and they have another batch arriving on 3rd March… Here’s hoping I make it onto that shipment.
Still gutter that I sold me F2 quite so early. Although resorting to running with my phone has certainly been an eye opener.
Sorry for the delay, but on the other hand it make me feel better of having cancelled my pre-order (mostly due to a preference in look for the 920xt, which I know lots of readers/writers here won’t agree).
Yea well I ordered in early January and got the same :( I also don’t like that they are saying mid March.
How early in Jan did you order? I ordered on 12th but have not had that email as yet…
I ordered a Sapphire bundle on 12/1 as well – no email as yet.
Just spoke to them – I am in the first batch (yippee!) – it was a Sapphire ordered on 12/1. They said I would have it by the end of next week though, which seemed a bit of a delay, though she said they are sent next day delivery as soon as they have them, so may be earlier than that. She said her colleague was just working through sending all the emails out…
Sounds like your order is being processed out of the second batch, if they’re coming in on the third and you’re getting it at the end of the week.
Yes that makes sense though she definitely said it was the first batch – I don’t think they have them yet – they just have notification of what they are getting from Garmin (200 watches I think she said) – and I think they are just being cautious by saying end of next week, but time will tell :)
Latest email just received from Cotswold:
“We are aware you are still awaiting the delivery of your pre order for Fenix 3 Sapphire GPS HRM.
As you may be aware, we have experienced some delays with the supplier but you should take receipt of your unit towards the end of this week or beginning of next week.”
So that’s all good :)
I have been trying to find out in the manual how the Fenix 3 handles calorie counting when using it as an activity monitor.
I am using a Garmin 610 and a Fitbit today trying to lose the last extra kilos and with that combination I am supposed to add up calories from exercises and steps.
On the Fenix 3 I guess that should be handled automatically, counting base calorie burn plus extra from movement, with better accuracy when doing a workout with HR monitor.
What confuses me though is that there is no clear explanation in the manual (or elsewhere) that I have found.
Has someone seen an explanation from Garmin or if not is this something that Ray may add as part of his review?
+1. Very curious as well. I am looking to consolidate devices. I currently have a Fenix 2, Fitbit one and Basis Peak (which is shortly going back to Rei toward purchase of F3 or Epix, once they have their 20% member discount) I am amazed at how close calorie metrics are between the Peak and Fitbit devices, even though fitbit does not have the 24/7 heart rate monitoring. If Garmin is in the same ballpark all the more reason to upgrade, besides all if the other said reasons :)
Heather, have you been successful in getting REI to apply the 20% member discount to GPS devices/activity trackers despite them being excluded?
Yes, that is how I purchased my Basis Peak. It cost me $158 instead of $200 that is was listed as. I purchased it online when it first came out.
Yes, that is how I purchased my Basis Peak. It cost me $159.89 instead of $200 that is was listed as. I purchased it online when it first came out.
Sorry the double post. I was not aware of the member discount not applying to activity trackers/gps watches etc. Is this new? My Basis Peak was ordered mid November 2014.
I believe the REI restriction is on GPS devices, and the Basis Peak doesn’t have GPS, does it? The F3 would be restricted.
As for activity tracking, between the Fitbit One, Jawbone Up, and Garmin, they’re all pretty close. Most to least generous in that order. F3 has replaced my F2 and Vivosmart.
Steps, calories, etc all get broken down by activity in Garmin Connect. The algorithms are not published, to my knowledge.
Thanks for clearing that up. At least the returning of the Peak will effectively reduce the price of whichever gps device I eventually decide to purchase. Waiting on F3 and/or Epix full reviews :)
Interesting that the Basis Peak was included; being online it may have slipped through the cracks.
Here’s info from the 2014 anniversary (spring) 20% sale: link to slickdeals.net
Activity trackers were specifically excluded then but were not in prior years as I recall. GPS devices have been excluded for quite some time.
I confirmed with REI a few months ago that the 20% off member discount does not apply to Garmin products. I certainly wished it did, but as you see on their website you would qualify for a $50 dividend come next year!
I just looked at the exclusions for the Fall 2014 member discount and it appears gps units were excluded but it did not mention activity trackers. link to goo.gl
I don’t know if I should go for this one, or wait for the Ambit 4? I’ve always been a fan of the Ambit series and it seems like this one is still a bit pricey for its feature set + it doesn’t really bring something new that is really relevant to me. Anyone here that has experience going from an Ambit 3 to this and tell me why he thinks this one is better?
P.S.: Jasper, get back to work!
Out of the box they mostly do the same thing (lot’s of little differences) but Garmin’s (Connect IQ) field, widget, app platform seems WAY more powerful than what Suunto is providing. If the Fenix 3 is even half as popular as the demand seems to be I imagine there will be a very large set of unique “features” that become available by third-parties.
I have never had an ambit but always been close to buying one but the lack of a proper workout features has always put me off. It something once you’ve lived with & used its hard to live without.
Having played in the Suunto Ambit playground for a few months, there were some striking differences to me.
1. No vibration alerts
2. Inability to configure watch without Movescount and internet access
3. Inability to add alerts. On the Garmin it’s child play to add an alert every 10 minutes to remind me to drink or add alerts for HR to high, Power to high, cadence to low..etc
4. Inability to make custom workouts
5. Pool swimming was a travesty out of the box.
6. Apps on the app store were pretty lame and IMO were necessary to add functionality that was missing in the device.
However It DID look better then any Garmin watch…..until now.
As for price, I’ve always found the Suunto watches to be more expensive then their Garmin counterparts. I can’t imagine the Ambit 4 will undercut the fēnix3 by much.
sorry for the lame colleague of mine: who has no interest in such a watch, what so ever. Sorry you guys had to wast energy on his question while he is being totally uninterested and probably laughing at the many responses he didn’t expect… some people never grow a brain or respect :)
Sorry for not reading through the 2,000 comments but I’m wondering about the metal band of the Sapphire model. In my mind all I can see is being bald on that part of my wrist because the hairs have gotten eaten up by the band. The metal band itself retails for $129 on the Garmin site so I’d hate to order the most expensive watch they have only to change out the band to the plastic one when I could have saved money and ordered the base model.
How is that metal band? I wonder what the long-term effects of sweat and salt will do to it. Looks like it picks up fingerprints well . Seems like one of those things where you can’t have a watch that takes a beating when you run/bike and yet looks good when you’re out to dinner. Appreciate any feedback.
I’ve been running with my phone and a pebble steel (with a stainless steel band) and this has convinced me going with a steel band on a sports watch is a bad idea because:
1) I have it sized so it can slide about about 3cm, but even with a little give, when I put it on over a long-sleeves wool shirt (with thumb holes) it’s uncomfortably tight and even seems to lower blood circulation (and that hand gets colder). So for half the year (I live in Minnesota) I’d have to either to choose to put an extra link back in and have a baggy watch for “every-day” use or an uncomfortable watch for running.
2) I hear there’s not a good way to attach the Fenix 3 to a bike when using the steel band (the Garmin bike mount doesn’t work with it?)
3) Nothing really beat’s plastic for cleaning off sweat and grime.
I have been thinking about this and I wonder if using an insert under the band made of foam or similar material might not be a great accessory. Basically used to tighten for use during activities while leaving looser for every day wear. Might try making a protype if / when I actually get an F3.
That could address my main annoyance. I also think a a stretch metal band like: link to amazon.com
could provide a good compromise between form and functionality.
They have such an insert. Its called the black plastic band :) Best part is that you save yourself $100 :)
Hey you are right. When I looked on the accessories page on Garmin it was right there directly below the Quick Connect called “Leave it on your Wrist”…. Even more savings.
I did not see any mention of using another brand of HRM with the F3 to get running dynamics other than just BPM. I have a Wahoo Ticker R HRM and wondering if the F3 will be able to calculate running dynamics. Does anyone know the answer to that question? Thanks!
Hi John
You won’t get running dynamics – just cadence from the watch and HR from the tickr. As I understand it Garmin have not opened up running dynamics to other companies.
Ok, Thanks Ian.
Ray..dumb question but maybe you know the answer. I see on the Vivoactive it will connect with the golf approach courses Garmin supports. Will the Fenix do that by any chance?
Ok, so here is my dilemma…Have a Garmin Edge 800 and a Suunto Ambit 2s…..and I am getting sick and tired of having 2 devices….I know the Ambit 2s can do cycling…..but since I have had it is has way over calculated speed and distance…..I am also tired of uploading the data from 2 devices to Garmin Connect for my tri coach to analyze as most, if not all of the time….the FIT files never upload correctly to Connect.
I am considering selling both the Suunto Ambit 2s and the Edge 800 and buying either the Fenix 2 or 3….
For Triathlon training and analysis, I want to go with one device…..I don’t care which model I get but it seems like the 3 being newer would be the better choice….but for $100 less I can pickup a Fenix 2 now….instead of waiting for the 3 to ship….
I read alot of negative stability comments on the Fenix 2 however, so now I am torn….any thoughts?
I owned a Fenix 2 and likde a lot of things about it until I started having GPS issues (wouldn’t lock onto sats) combined with some hardware limitations like live tracking and no hr monitoring. With that said I have pre-ordered a Fenix 3. My advice if you decide to go with the F2 would be to buy it from someone like REI that has a reasonable return policy if you have any issues with it. I will say that some of the limitations that the F2 seem to have been resolved with the F3 (most notably the simultaneous ant+ and Bluetooth issue). I’ve never dealt with clever training like advertised on the site so I have no experience with their return policy but REI gave me back my money no questions asked. Good luck
Hi Chris, if you primarily want the watch for tri training, I would go the 920xt. Its form is more suited to training over looks (that being said it is better looking than the 910xt and I loved my 910xt, used it for cycling (sold my 500 to get it), running and swimming). A quick release kit is will no doubt come out for it, would not bank on the Fenix 3 getting one. It is lighter. The buttons on the front are easier to use when doing intervals (be they swimming or running)..
That being said, I am getting the Fenix 3 because all I really want/need it for, training wise, is swimming (I have a 210 for running and a 510 for cycling). You may miss the extra screen size of the 800 but the auto uploading of data really is awesome..
Good luck with your decision..
Thanks for the response Jason…
I train using HR pretty extensively….are you saying the F2 has issues with HR monitoring? Was this a hardware issue or a firmware issue (if you know)?
Thanks
Chris
Jason’s comment is the first I have ever heard on the HR problem front. I’ve had 2 F2’s on which I have recorded at least 100 Activities wearing any of four different HRM’s without any problems whatsoever on that front.
I really only have two problems with my current F2. 1) it occasionally corrupts a fit file and takes a dump (aka locks up, freezes, auto-reboots, auto-pauses an activity. I have experienced this with two separate F2’s now but Ray says I’m just lucky that way. 2) the sensors cannot be configured for specific activities so if, for instance, the foot pod is turned on in settings but not present at start you will get no speed and no distance while running, hiking, kayaking, skating even with a perfect satellite lock. I am waiting to see if these two shortcomings have been solved in the f3.
If I were a tri-guy—as you obviously are coach and all—I think it would be a no brainer to buy the 920 which already has a quick release. The only real advantage the F3 seems to enjoy over the 920 is that it is better looking and even then, it is still a $500 plastic watch.
The limitation of no heart rate while using live tracking is a known hardware limitation as the unit cannot use ant+ and Bluetooth simultaneously. Your either able to use livetrack or monitor your heart rate but not both concurrently. Additionally the unit will not record ant+ sensors while in ultra-trac mode either. The F3 from my understanding will allow both ant+ and Bluetooth to be used at the same time. Not sure if it will allow the hrs recording while in ultratrac mode or not.
Frank, thanks for the guidance…I am thinking the 920 may be the way to go…..I am not overly concerned about the “appearance”…..Hell I wear my Ambit 2S daily…and it is not “pretty”….
This is the answer that I received from CT today. I ordered on Jan 13
“Thank you for your inquiry and patience in processing this order. Unfortunately the units recently received were the Sapphire version and have already been allocated. We do expect another small shipment this week and will continue to work through our queue. I am not told what style or quantity will be included in this shipment at this time. Once we are able to fulfill your order, we will update you with tracking for your convenience. “
This is the answer that I received from CT today. I ordered on Jan 13
Thank you for your inquiry and patience in processing this order. Unfortunately the units recently received were the Sapphire version and have already been allocated. We do expect another small shipment this week and will continue to work through our queue. I am not told what style or quantity will be included in this shipment at this time. Once we are able to fulfill your order, we will update you with tracking for your convenience.
Today’s answer from CT. I ordered on Jan 13
Thank you for your inquiry and patience in processing this order. Unfortunately the units recently received were the Sapphire version and have already been allocated. We do expect another small shipment this week and will continue to work through our queue. I am not told what style or quantity will be included in this shipment at this time. Once we are able to fulfill your order, we will update you with tracking for your convenience.
Sorry, there was an error with my browser
Wohoo, just got an email from Cotswolds: “We are pleased to advise that your recently placed order with us has been despatched for delivery”
Ordered the Grey HRM on Jan 20.
Thanks to whoever shared the discount code…
+1
Ordered mine on the 21st Jan
That is exciting, it means Garmin have started shipping Grey models.. Saweet… Great you will have yours to play with very soon.. I am jealous..
I predict emails from CT within a week announcing early orderers should start watching out for the courier.. ;-)
Disclaimer: Please don’t take my prediction as gospel and continue to manage your expectations… I have no idea when CT will actually be getting their first delivery… Just going out on a limb and making a prediction…
After receiving an email saying it was going to be delivered around mid-March, I just received an order dispatched email from Cotswold Outdoor… Not sure what’s going on but happy if it does turn up tomorrow. Will keep you posted. :-)
+1 cant track it yet tho
Same
So, having let doubt get the better of me, after yesterday’s email and not being able to pull up the tracking details online… I decided to give CO a call for confirmation. Although I’m still down as a mid-late March recipient, my order has been processed and dispatched. Maybe they got lucky and had an earlier shipment arrive from Garmin, or maybe a bunch of people cancelled and I got bumped up the list… in any case, it’s in the delivery system and should be with me tomorrow.
I don’t think I can remember a time when I was this hung up about receiving a toy, but hey, it’s still fun right. ;-)
wait whuuuut? Mine to :o .. idd confusing!
Looks like Cotsworld is now UK – REI…. Orders placed there will also now be delivered prior to CT orders it seems.
Ray, is it possible that the UK is having them delivered before CT? I ordered mine on Jan 5th from CT and still no news. Happy for you guys in the UK!
On the Garmin website it states that the Fenix 3 does not have auto lap. The 920XT does. What does this mean? When running, it will not trigger when you completed a lap and the pace of that lap? This is something I definitely need when running a race.
The Fenix 3 has Autolap. That is written in the manual.
But where to find the manual? I see all other manuals on Garmin.com just no F3 manual. Or Quick Start for that matter. I really want to read it thoroughly before placing my order.
there for english version
link to support.garmin.com
Someone posted a link here.. can’t remember who, or when… I think it was a link to garmin website..
there for englih version
link to support.garmin.com
(was just going to post it) Found it! :p
It has Autolap by distance but not by position
Thanks Markus B and Laurent.
Just rang 99 Bikes in Australia who have it at the cheapest local price on pre-order.
Asked when they expect them in, they rang the supplier and got back to me to say within a couple of days!…
So I placed an order for the Grey bundle .
Looking forward to this, as my previous watch was a Suunto Ambit 2
Calling Pushy’s in Australia NOW who have my Sapphire pre-order waiting…last i spoke to them they said expect 1st/2nd week of March.
I have a pre order with 99 bikes for the grey/black model and have not yet received a call to say it has arrived as yet.
99 Bikes have my Bundle in.
They actually had it last week, apparently tried to get a hold of me.
No problems though will be picking it up tonight. Hopefully it won’t be to difficult to master coming from an Ambit 2.
99 Bikes contacted me on Tue 3rd March to say it would be in stock at the supplier by Fri 6th and they should expect to receive it by 11th March so not too much longer for me to wait now.
Did you get yours yet Striff?
yes have it for just over a day now.
Not to happy with all the glitches, and seems to be step down from the Ambit 2 I had in a lot of areas.
Oh noes, I guess that is both good and bad.
Well early adopters should expect a few teething issues on a new product. As long as the hardware is solid everything else can be fine tuned over time with software/firmware updates.
Just hope my unit is free of any defects!
Ordered Fenix 3 Sapphire + HRM via Clever Training yesterday! Thanks again for this blog and keep up the great work, please!
You ordered HRM separately it would seem, as there is “sapphire” bundle that I see.
Yeah, I ordered the Fenix 3 and the HRM separately. All in one order. Sorry I made a mess.
I know many of you have been trying to ferret out all the tiny software differences between the Fenix3 and past Fenix units, as well as the FR920XT.
As part of my In-Depth Review, I’ve compiled a table of all the differences I could find. I then had the Fenix product team validate this table. Finally, in an effort to ensure no stone is left unturned, I’m putting a draft version of this table at the below link
link to dcrainmaker.com
If you have specific changes related to that table, please post them in the comments section of that specific post. Definitely happy to ensure it’s fully accurate before the review. Note that upon publishing of the review next week, I’ll remove that draft page and it’ll be incorporated into the review itself. Thanks!
REI online rep just typed that garmin has pushed out date again and rei is expecting gray/hrm bundle units mar 13, the rep said i wont have it until mar 18
Josh,
When did you place your pre-order? Thanks.
Beginning of Feb. However since then the est date has changed from mar 1 to feb 27 to mar 4 to mar 1 to mar 18. Kind of all over the place. Meanwhile I also have an order with CT.
Congrats Josh!
i keep telling myself we saved on tax and on 10% and it will be worth the weight with clever training.
it’s clear that REI has the priority over everyone else.
I’m just so tired of running with my bulky iphone… fenix 4 rumors should be out by the time we get our watches..
Got mine delivered from Cotswold’s today.
Does anyone know how to change the location format? I want set it to UK GRID.
Thanks
Comment 2000! New record for a preview right?
congrats 2000! you win a free Garmin Fenix 3! But it’s on indefinite back order ;)
Badum tsh :D you made my day Gabe (also with the Fenix 4 rumors ;-) )
We, those the faithful that pre-ordered from CT, will get our F3 eventually. We will likely never know, but perhaps CT got their bulk pre-orders into Garmin later/after than REI and Cotswords, and Walmart, and everyone else that seems to be starting shipping on these. Thus, they (and we) are all delayed because the CT bulk order is being filled in the order Garmin got all the other bulk orders in.
Thinking you hit the nail on the head. REI had a huge “pre-order” (and others) prior to CT order therefore now why we are seeing people that ordered from REI in February already having theirs shipped while finally yesterday did we see a 1/5 CT person getting a shipping notice. I’m 1/7 and nothing yet. I called there today to be told no dice on shipping this week. I called because I am going on a business trip next week for a couple weeks and once hearing that I changed my shipping address to the hotel. Hopefully the thought of having to switch it back if nearing the end of the trip without shipping will not have to happen.
It arrived today from CO, ordered on 26/01.
So far I’m very impressed. The build quality is fantastic and although there’s not a huge difference in weight from the F2, it seems to be distributed far better, so it feels lighter.
Took a while for the first GPS fix… Is there a way to preset a geographical area, to speed up the GPS/GLONAS lock?
I think it stores the satellite positions from your last GPS fix, so unless you have flown somewhere, future fixes should be faster. Also I believe it caches the satellite map for the next week each time it connects to WiFi.
I am torn between the sapphire model and the silver model. How much validity is there behind the anti scratch with sapphire vs what is offered on the silver model? The extra money isn’t an issue, but I like the look of the silver bezel.
I read your comment: “The Sapphire edition refers to the glass used on the exterior of the display, which is a harder material. It’s become popular with watch makers of late, as it implies being stronger. In reality, I’ve never heard of any recent non-Sapphire Garmin or Suunto high end GPS device actually having their display cracked/broken in regular (or even non-regular use). But to each their own.”
I am new to the multi sport watch market and have never owned a garmin, Has scratching (not concerned with “broken or cracked” as mentioned above) the face been an issue with previous garmin models? (fenix 2 or others: assuming the glass is similar to what is offered in the fenix 3 silver). Also, why is it that the numbers are more bold 1-15 on the sapphire model?
Re the saphire debate – I currently own a non saphire Suunto Ambit2. I am not gentle with it. I train for and race in off road duathlons and triathlons and wear it to crossfit class 3 days a week. After 2 years I have 2 tiny scratches on the face that are only visible from a certain angle. The next watch I get will be saphire, but if you take better care of your stuff than I do, I wouldn’t think it necessary.
I have a fr610 that I trail run, MTN Bike and OCR in.
I do have some fine scratches in the face of the device.
To be clear, these scratches are not impairing the ability to read the device, it’s just bad enough to where I would want to wear it “out on the town” or an everyday watch.
This will probably make some of you happy and others sad. I placed an REI order on 2/3 and got my notification that the item is at the store ready for pickup today. I live in WA, near REI’s distribution centers (or at least one of them). Sapphire version if it helps solve the mess Garmin got themselves into with this launch.
Is it just me or is the watch too big for regular wrists?
Is it just me or is the watch too big for regular wrists? Wish it was a tad smaller…
@Iovmac, Frustrating ;) I ordered a Gray HR bundle on Jan 14 from REI and mine hasn’t shipped yet. I think the supply to demand ratio was better for the Sapphire (and maybe the non-bundled units). REI said in a live chat session that it could ship 2/27 though.
@Sameer, that question seems hugely dependent on the individual. I think it’s too big for me to want to wear it as an everyday watch but the additional size allows for a larger screen, larger buttons and a bigger battery, which I suspect will make it tremendously more useable while engaged in physical activities (which seems like the use-case garmin should optimize for).
Holy Crap – My Clever Train Order Shipped!
Garmin Fenix 3
Features
Gray Black Bundle with HRM Run
Hey Gabe, when did you order?
Noice my prediction came true.. Congrats, now to see how far down the order list I was.. (I too went the Grey HRM)..
Running with the ‘bulky iphone’ will soon be a thing of the past.. :-)
1/19 -False alarm!!
I recently added an item to the order. a garmin/speed & cadence sensor that just shipped and my order says completed. Called up and it’s still backordered.
oh well – we’ll just have to wait for REI to full all their orders. ha
Do’oh Gabe..
Messing with our emotions ;-)
I just got word that wildfire Sports in Australia have sent out all preorders for the sapphire model. They even have a few spare. No word on grey or red.
Regarding the size.
It is quite large, but it’s very light, once you’ve had it on for a few minutes you tend to forget about it. I think it will have to go over top some of the tighter fitting compression tops :) but that’s fine.
Dear Ray,
Does the Garmin HRM-Run transmitter fit on the Polar soft strap similar to what you propose in link to dcrainmaker.com ?
Thank you for your site – I’ve order the Sapphire and HRM-Run through CT.
Yup, it does.
And thanks for the support via Clever Training!
Ok, so I bought a Fenix 3.
I am really interested about a picture I saw on the Garmin/Fenix website that shows a picture of the watch with it displaying “push-up’s” on the screen of the watch. However, I can’t find the “push-up’s” app. has anyone found this? here is a link to the picture on the Garmin website… link to fenix3.garmin.com If you scroll to the “connect IQ” section you will see it. Where can I get this pushup app? Any type of weight training app would be great but I haven’t found anything like it in connectIQ.
Thank you all in advance! Great webpage!
I can’t help with the app, but I can say that looks like a timer, not a counter. It looks like they are doing an interval work out, and have 23 seconds left on their push-ups interval, and then it is time to run.
I just also purchased the F2 in September. I expected the F3 to be around eventually but as with any device I usually always wait at least 2 cycles before “upgrading”. Otherwise unless you need a specific feature, which you probably do not, the F2 is a damn fine gps device.
Got my sapphire yesterday. anyone removed links from the metal band yet!
yes I remove the links out of my watch band right away. What you want to do is take an equal amount of links off of each side. If you don’t the watch won’t conform to your wrist correctly. I only thought I’d have to take off two links but I actually had to take off four links for an average sized wrist. The links push out if you look at the back of the watchband you will see arrows on the links that are able to be removed. Push the pins out in the direction of the arrows and the pin will pop out. I used a lead pencil to push the pins out. A paperclip may also work but like I said I just used a lead pencil without any lead in it. It’s actually very easy
Thanks for the info Beau
Ray, could you add REI under your “Buy Now:” (left column) as a 3rd option, as I’m already an REI member, and would also like to support your site w/ my Fenix 3 Saphire purchase.
Hi,
What should we expect in ‘advanced navigation feature’?
What’s more than the 920?
Thx
Stephane
link to dcrainmaker.com
Bah, I just got an email from REI saying my order for a Gray HR bundle on Jan 14th was canceled (while the Fenix3 is still available for order on their website!) This is after I sent them an email explicitly stating I wanted to keep my pre-order active. I called them and they said there was “no way” I could be put back in the order queue but I could place a new order (and start at the end again…)
On the bright side I’ll probably be supporting Ray via Clever Training now. I typically buy things from REI because I respect their customer service but not so much any more…
@Sean. REI is notorious for doing this. They cancelled my January 5th order 1 month later despite telling them I wanted to keep the order.
Thanks for the heads up. After posting here I think I saw a post you made about it in a Garmin forum. It’s such bizarre (bad) behavior coming from a company that I’ve typically been happy with. I sent them a strongly-word but civil email about it and am curious what kind of response I’ll get. This will be my first sports watch and I was pretty excited… Now I wonder how many more weeks I’ll be waiting.
So,
can you chose which notification is send to you phone (Iphone in this case) and which you don’t want to have?? Because I can’t find it any where.. also not on my phone
for exmaple, messenger, yeah I don’t need that one on my watch…
Second: emails, only just of 1 account, is it possible?
No with iPhone
Yes with Android
You can actually does this on iPhone. Settings > notifications > select the app (or mail then the account) then if you have a banner on the the watch gets those notifications. Simples! :)
indeed not :(
I hate iphone ( have it for work so, otherwise I would still got my Android!)
Doesn’t work: then you put the notification on, entirely or just simple not.. No distinction between notifi’s on phone or watch!
Oh I see – personally – configuring different notifications for phone and watch is step too far. Not sure I would ever need that. Works great as it is for me on iPhone (I have Android and WP too, but iPhone is my favourite – of course YMMV)
I’m just going to delete most notifications! It only takes up your time and attention! It gives your social/phone addiction (if you have one, me a little bit) just more juice!
Only work related emails (if that works) are going on there, and text + phone! no more messenger, whatsapp and all that stuf! :). Making life simpler and more relaxed!
On the iPhone in settings only notifications that have a banners are put on the watch. You can still have applications notify you on the phone only, just don’t give them a banner.
You can customize banners to your hearts delight.
You can have a single email account go to your watch. You can even have only specific people show up on your watch (If you make them VIPs and give VIP banners)
Olu,
While generally true, it is actually only items that end up in the “Notification Center” end up going to the watch. I have at least two items where the “banner setting” doesn’t match “going to the watch”.
1. App updates. Whenever the App store updates an App, it throws that info into the notification center, even without a banner. So those show up on the watch when I get home to my WiFi.
2. For some reason Exchange e-mail banners do not show up in the notification center unless the conversation is marked “Notify Me” or the sender is a VIP (and VIP notifications are turned on).
But yes, generally you can customize what gets sent to the watch, but it has to (sort of) match the banners on the phone.
I’ve noticed the App store updates coming through. Apple apps are notorious for annoyingly not following the rules.
I have 2 exchange accounts, I’ll give those a try and see what happens. I generally use the VIP function for email notifications. I just don’t want emails going to my watch (except for my wife and a select few).
@David
I’m not sure sbout point 1 (I’m going to test) but point 2 is certainly not my experience with our Exchange account – it works exactly like you’d expect (it’s office 365 but I don’t think that makes a difference here) so strange you are getting that. For clarity the settings I have in Notifications > Mail > Exchange Settings are:
Show in notification centre : on
Notification sound : none
Badge app icon: on
Show in lock screen: off
Alert style when unlocked: banners
Olu dis doesn’t work for me though!
The garmin connect app needs to handle these option form my point of view.. (probably is so with the android version).. makes it a lot easier!
I can’t get a notification just on phone (always goes trough to my phone!)
I put just allow notification on, all the rest off, my watch still received it! (so: no sound, no badge app icon, no show on lock screen, no allert style when unlocked …) I get everything from that damn phone!
It’s all or notting!
for the mailing part, maybe I need to try that VIP thing, when I feel for it :), because all other setting, like the above don’t work!
Ian, you are correct. I didn’t drill into the account setting for my exchange mail. It did indeed have “show in Notification Center” turned off, with banners on. That will probably fix that issue for me.
On the previous screen all of my email said the same thing (Sounds, Badges, Banner). I didn’t realize there was a separate setting for Notification Center.
Hi Ray,
you say multiple bike support is present, it is only different then in the 910xt. How much different.
as I have an MTB (cadence only + tempe + hr), racing (cadence+speed + tempe + hr + power), touring (cadence+speed + hr + tempe). In summary that is a total of 6 different ant sensors (as tempe and hr are carried over).
Can i still make different bike profiles which will be auto recognised by the presence of the different cadence sensors?
I am still in big doubt between the 920 and fenix3, help me…. :) (do you have an estimation for the fenix in depth review?)
The way it works with the FR920XT/Fenix3 is that there’s a sensor pool. So you pair all your sensors once (from everything), and then when you head out on a ride, it just automatically picks up which ones have been turned on (because you moved the bike). In the event of a conflict, it simply asks you which ones to use for that ride.
It works beautifully, and is honestly the single best feature (in my mind) that Garmin implemented in 2014 (with the Edge 1000 initially).
The Fenix3 in-depth review will be out on or by next Thursday, March 5th.
Does that mean I can have different HR sensors and the watch automatically picks up the one that is present without any repairing? Currently with my Ambit 2 I can only pair either my Scoche Rhythm+ or the Suunto HRM.
Thank you for the promt info.
Ray,
After REI frustrating canceled my Jan 14 (grey HR bundle), I placed an order with Clever Training. I hope this helps you continue with the excellent service you provide for the community.
Thanks for the support Sean, I appreciate it!
While I stand totally behind support Ray for his outstanding site, I have to admit that I’m getting frustrated with CT at this point in time. Seeing that REI shipped F3 left and right and still having no idea when my Sapphire is finally shipping is a bit annoying. For those who preordered other devices (like the 920) with them – was it that bad before as well?
Ray, maybe you can add another site to your buying options? Or have a word with them on their communication strategy? I believe that everyone here loves what you do for the community of sports tech nerds and loves to support you, but CT is at this point just under par…
under pay compared to whom? garmin themselves hasn’t shipped their pre-order. amazon hasn’t. so REI got into the queue first. somebody had to be first and second, etc. has has been explained as nauseum is that garmin never has giant first shipments. just to guard against manufacturer issues.
I anxious to, but for pete’s sakes. Chill. it’s getting February. garmin said 1st quarter. that’s doesn’t end till end of March.
Communication is under par. Sending out the same email for weeks is less than I expect. Maybe I expect too much. Happy for you if your standard is lower.
On the other hand, I think it would be great if Ray had more referral sites, as many people who read his blog, still order from neither CT nor Amazon.
Hi Hans-
Trust me, there’s nothing more important at Clever Training. And, there’s nothing that we don’t talk about more. I talk to them about Fenix3 order status every morning when they wake up, every lunch time, and every time before they head to bed (well after they’ve left the office).
They’ve communicated as best as they possibly can (weekly) given the limited information that Garmin is providing. I’m optimistic we’ll see some solid movement in next week’s arrival, but they just don’t have the numbers yet to be sure on that. That’s one of the things I like about Clever – they aren’t going to lie to keep folks happy. Many other retailers keep promising things they can’t deliver. CT is only promising the details Garmin provides them (+ a fluff factor for Garmin’s delays). Sometimes, Garmin doesn’t hit their delivery estimates, unfortunately, that’s not new.
It’s not a case of being ‘in the queue’ late. CT has a massive pre-order in there just like REI, well before product announcement. It’s really a case of a single individual at Garmin making the decision to grant REI the first shipment, without telling other retailers or even other Garmin employees.
All that said, I do very much appreciate the support of Clever Training, which in turn supports the site.
Fot anyone not happy with CT I don’t get it. The problem is out of their control and you’re getting the watch cheaper than anywhere else. Also I emailed support and got a response in less than 10 minutes. What more can you expect?
The problem I have with any company’s pre-order and/or back-order process, is that you are totally blind to how deep in line you are, not to mention any ETA’s. IF I’m number 4 of 400 or 395/400, this might help me decide whether or not I want to play that waiting game, especially if I’m paying up-front. At least if I physically pull up to a business, and see a line of people wrapped around the building, I’ll can easily decide whether or not to come back at a later date & time.
Hi Ray,
thank you for the background. I do appreciate that you do the community communication for CT. I do like CT, they are very responsive and very friendly – and you can see from the threads here and on Garmin Forums that REI is not golden throughout (cancelling pre-orders). So everyone can make their own choices where to (pre-) order. I stick with CT.
That doesn’t mean that I don’t think they could be better. I wish that they would provide the guidance that you provide here through email in their weekly email update rather than sending the same email week after week. Take this as constructive feedback and not as a rant against CT. Maybe my nerdy impatience got me.
So, all good I’ll be waiting – impatiently though :).
Have a great weekend.
It is laughable sometimes. Garmin stated first quarter 2015. There is still over a month before that promise is missed. Although, technically they have hit the target as there have been shipments to those lucky few who went through REI. REI in this instance was chosen to receive the first batch (the guinea pigs so to speak)..
Next time around it will more than likely be another seller.
Anyone who placed an order with anyone should have set their expectations for end of March.
People are now acting like school kids because other people received theirs first.. Boo hoo.. #firstworldproblems I assume you are grownups.. If you really want a watch now, be a man and go get yourselves a Richard Mille..
Now, let me go check my email, see if the weekly update from CT has arrived yet (yes, I am excited about getting my watch.. But I realise I have to wait.. Half the fun)..
chill on the self righteous condescension. This is simply a poor release. This just isn’t how releases are handled in 2015. The fact that Garmin didn’t even know it had been released to rei until after the fact and then couldn’t even day when it would be released- and then all off a sudden their Twitter feed says it was released after their fact? It’s not that big of a deal, really, and I get your point on that, but people have a right to be annoyed with Garmin. Maybe you’re not-that’s fine too. But the fact is people nowadays expect more clarity as part of the pre-order process and Garmin clearly had no idea how to manage that.
I for one sure am irrationally excited. Maybe the review here will have some negative things to say about it and I’ll quit looking forward to it like a “school kid” looks forward to Christmas ;)
Sorry for typos. Typing on my phone.
Dang. I just got the standard deal from CT/Garmin. The preorder I made, didnt come with promises of delivery timeframe. Didnt promise Jan/Feb or even March. Didnt promise timely communication, or really any. Didnt promise I would be jumped to the first in line, or because I bought a VIP membership I would be placed before the bulk orders from other stores, including the one that clearly had dibs on first shipments as they all but had a joint release party. Where did you guys order from, that promises from Garmin and CT were broken, and expectations we so far off. I only ask since I want to avoid ordering from them in the future. I’ll stick with CT and help support DC Ray. My F2 will just keep getting use into the new sheriff arrives. :)
Cool, I still don’t see how it is a poor release.. From what I read, before I placed my preorder, from readily available information was the F3 was expected Q1 2015. It is still Q1 2015 and a fair few folk out there are running/swimming/hiking/sleeping etc with their Fenix 3s.
Job done Garmin..
I look forward to next week, I think it could be the week… (fingers crossed)..
Ryan I totally agree with you! (sorry I am a lucky bastard that has his F3 already)
I order very late (15 feb) at Cotswoldoutdoor.. and I knew I would be waiting a long time! I got even more excited when people from REI got there watches! But I didn’t freak out and start dissing Garmin for that (that being a release before there annouced release.. So hell! Good job Garming)..
I got a email saying I won’t make the first batch: well obviously, I ordered the 15 and received the mail on 23.. So wasn’t surprised at all!
Then a day later I got another email: order was shipped…
So off course I’m happy… but if I had to wait another 2 weeks, well so be it.. It still in Q1..
It’s also like Ray says: CT doesn’t promise a date if they don’t got it from Garmin, which is a very good and professional thing!