Garmin Venu 3 vs Vivoactive 5 — head-to-head comparison
The Garmin Venu 3 and Vivoactive 5 target similar users but take different approaches: the Venu 3 emphasizes a premium display, extra sensors and on-watch call/voice features, while the Vivoactive 5 focuses on a lighter, more affordable daily-fitness experience Wareable Android Authority.
| Model | Display | Battery (typical watch mode) | Key sensors | On-device calls / voice |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Venu 3 | 1.4″ larger AMOLED | Longer battery life (multi-day) | GPS, barometric altimeter, ECG support, advanced HR | Yes; phone calls and voice assistant support |
| Vivoactive 5 | 1.2″ AMOLED slightly smaller | Strong multi-day battery, slightly lower than Venu 3 | GPS, optical HR (no barometer on some configs) | No on-device calls or voice assistant |
Sources: Versus Wareable Android Authority.
Design and display
The Venu 3 offers a larger, sharper AMOLED screen and a slightly bigger case aimed at users who prioritize a premium visual experience during workouts and everyday wear Versus Wareable. The Vivoactive 5 is thinner, lighter and designed for comfort and all-day wear at a lower price point Versus manolo-running-coach.com.
Fitness tracking and sensors
Both watches provide robust GPS-based activity tracking, running metrics and sleep coaching features, but the Venu 3 adds extra hardware such as a barometric altimeter and additional health sensors that support features like ECG and more precise elevation tracking Versus Wareable. The Vivoactive 5 delivers the core Garmin fitness toolkit with excellent day-to-day metrics while omitting some of the Venu 3’s higher-end sensor extras to keep size and cost down Android Authority vo2-optimum-training.com.
Battery life and daily use
Both models achieve multi-day battery life suitable for regular use. The Venu 3 generally offers longer runtime in typical watch mode, trading a slightly larger case and weight for that extended endurance Versus Wareable. The Vivoactive 5 maintains competitive battery performance while being slimmer and lighter for users who value minimal wrist bulk Versus manolo-running-coach.com.
Software, connectivity and smart features
The Venu 3 includes on-device phone call capability and voice assistant support for hands-free interactions, placing it a step above the Vivoactive 5 in smart features Wareable Android Authority. Both watches run Garmin’s current software with sleep coaching, automatic nap detection and firmware updates, and both support the Garmin Connect ecosystem and companion app customization Wareable Android Authority.
Who should buy which
- Choose the Venu 3 if you want a larger AMOLED display, advanced sensors (barometer, ECG-capable hardware), on-watch calling and voice assistant, and longer battery life in exchange for a slightly larger, heavier watch and higher price Versus Wareable Android Authority.
- Choose the Vivoactive 5 if you prioritize a lighter, slimmer watch with strong fitness tracking, excellent daily battery life and better value for money while accepting fewer premium sensors and no on-device call/voice features manolo-running-coach.com Android Authority vo2-optimum-training.com.
If budget allows and you want the most complete set of health sensors plus on-watch smart features, the Venu 3 is the stronger all-around pick Wareable Android Authority. If you want Garmin reliability, core fitness features and a lighter, more affordable wearable for everyday training, the Vivoactive 5 represents better value manolo-running-coach.com vo2-optimum-training.com.
