| Polar Vantage V | Garmin Venu | |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing | ||
| Starting price | $599 | $549★ |
| Subscription | ✓ None | ℹ️ Optional — $70/yr |
| Hardware | ||
| Weight | 39g★ | 42g |
| Water resistance | 5ATM | 5ATM |
| Battery | 8 days | 12 days★ |
| Always-on display | ✅ | ✅ |
| GPS | ✅ | ✅ |
| Cellular | ❌ | ❌ |
| Platform | iOS & Android | iOS & Android |
| Tier | Sports GPS | Smartwatch |
| Buy timing | ||
| Released | Oct 4, 2023 | Sep 22, 2025 |
| Cycle advice | bad | good★ |
| Deals advice | good★ | neutral |
| Next model | Polar Vantage V4 (2026) | — |
Polar Vantage V3 is one of the few sports GPS watches with on-demand ECG — usually only found on lifestyle smartwatches.
Running power measurement without a foot pod or chest strap — a significant training metric for pacing effort on hills and varied terrain.
The most detailed training load analysis in any sports watch: muscle groups targeted per session, recovery status per muscle, and long-term load trends.
The Venu 4 adds on-demand ECG (a first for the Venu line) alongside Garmin's signature Body Battery energy score — combining health monitoring and daily readiness in one watch.
A white/red LED flashlight and a speaker/microphone for hands-free calling — practical features that set the Venu 4 apart from the Venu 3.
SatIQ multi-band GPS for precise tracking in cities and trails, with up to 12 days of battery life in the 45mm model — significantly more than any comparable smartwatch.
The right pick depends on what you optimize for.
$599 vs $759 over 3 years · no required subscription.
12 days vs 8 days battery.
8 sensors.
39g · no required subscription.
Serious endurance athletes — particularly runners and triathletes — who want Polar's unmatched training load science and recovery guidance, combined with ECG health monitoring and running power in a premium package.
Full details →Users who want Garmin's best health analytics and sports tracking on a stylish AMOLED watch for everyday wear. Works equally well for Android and iPhone. The Venu 4 adds ECG and a flashlight to the formula — ideal for anyone who wants a capable lifestyle watch with genuine health monitoring depth.
Full details →