Garmin Instinct 3 Solar 50 mm vs Polar Pacer Pro
Garmin Instinct 3 Solar 50 mm (60 h GPS, 60 g) vs Polar Pacer Pro (35 h GPS, 41 g). Side-by-side spec comparison: battery, weight, maps, multi-band GPS and price. Which GPS watch should you buy?
GarminGarmin Instinct 3 Solar 50 mmUltra-rugged GPS watch with solar charging: up to 40 days in smartwatch mode (unlimited with sun), 60 h GPS and 34 h multi-band. Military-standard case, LED flashlight and dual-frequency GPS. For those who prioritise toughness and battery over onboard maps on their mountain outings.
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PolarPolar Pacer ProUltra-light running watch (41 g) focused on power-based training and Polar's running metrics. 35 h of battery in GPS mode and breadcrumb navigation. Simple, thin and comfortable, with one of the best training-analysis platforms for road and light-trail runners.
View on AmazonSpec-by-spec comparison
| Spec | Garmin Instinct 3 Solar 50 mm | Polar Pacer Pro |
|---|---|---|
| GPS battery | 60 h | 35 h |
| Multi-band battery | 34 h | – |
| Smartwatch | 40 days | 7 days |
| Weight | 60 g | 41 g |
| Maps | – | – |
| Multi-band | ✓ | – |
| Music | – | – |
| Display | MIP | MIP |
| Price | Mid-range | Entry |
GPS battery = each manufacturer's standard GPS mode; multi-band = dual-frequency (maximum accuracy). On Suunto, Polar Grit and Amazfit T-Rex the GPS figure already corresponds to dual-band mode. Figures verified against the manufacturer.
Verdict
For maximum autonomy on long ultras, Garmin Instinct 3 Solar 50 mm lasts longer in GPS mode. If you want the lightest watch on your wrist, go for Polar Pacer Pro. On budget, Polar Pacer Pro is the more affordable option.