So, I’ve never had a smartwatch before. About a month ago, a family member gave me their old Gear S3 Classic, and I replaced the battery. It lasts about a week, which is good, and I charge it when I shower or do my morning routine. It’s been nice but nothing life-changing. The problem is that it’s outdated, can’t sync with some apps, and I haven’t really explored many features yet. A week ago, I got their Instinct Tactical Solar (gen 1), but I just got it charged up yesterday, so I haven’t used it much.
Now, I see I can get the Galaxy Watch 7 44mm for $160, or the Ultra for $275. I’m trying really hard not to buy one. Two weeks ago, I thought about getting the 7 for $160 if the price dropped, but it went back up to $220. Then I got into looking at Garmin watches and almost bought the Instinct 2 45mm for $200. But then I was given the Gen 1 Instinct, so I didn’t buy it.
Now the 7 is back to $160, and the Ultra is only $100 more. I’m struggling to resist buying one of them, but I don’t even think I really need one. My workouts are only 35 minutes a day, and I don’t track zones or anything, just staying active. I hike once a week, camp once a month, bike every few months, and dive once a year. I don’t care about sleep tracking because I’ve always had bad sleep, and I don’t need to monitor anything like apnea.
If you haven’t found the Gear S3 or the Instinct that essential, the GW7 or Ultra probably won’t be a game-changer either. Save your money unless you’re really going to use the new features!
Aris said:
If you haven’t found the Gear S3 or the Instinct that essential, the GW7 or Ultra probably won’t be a game-changer either. Save your money unless you’re really going to use the new features!
This is a great answer, thank you. The problem is, I’m not sure if I didn’t use many features on the S3 because they were outdated or because I just wouldn’t use them on a new watch after the initial excitement fades. I’m used to doing without a lot of the features, so it’s hard for me to imagine needing them. I think you’re right, it’s probably not worth upgrading to the Ultra. I’m still thinking about the GW7, though.
Broderick said:
How did you change the battery yourself?
I followed a YouTube tutorial. It’s not too hard: there are four screws on the case, then pry off the back (this part is tricky). You’ll need to remove a couple of screws on the board, pop three cables, carefully lift up the board (mind a couple cables that are hard to reach), then carefully separate the adhesive and remove the battery. Then just reverse the process, but check the o-ring before sealing it up.
Just a heads-up: the original Instinct is pretty limited when it comes to outdoor functionality. The Instinct 2 is a much better option, so if you like the Instinct series, it might be worth considering the newer model. Also, keep in mind the GW7 lasts around 2 days, and the GW Ultra might give you 3 to 4 days of battery life.
If the S3 or the Instinct Tactical gives you what you need, why upgrade? What do you think the GW7, Ultra, or a newer Garmin would offer that your current watches don’t?