Garmin Instinct 3 Solar 50 mm vs Suunto Vertical
Garmin Instinct 3 Solar 50 mm (60 h GPS, 60 g) vs Suunto Vertical (60 h GPS, 86 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.
View on Amazon
SuuntoSuunto VerticalAdventure watch with free offline topo maps and enormous battery life: 60 h in dual-band and up to 60 days in daily use, with a 500 h Tour mode. Large display, dual-band GPS and five satellite systems. Built for big mountain crossings and multi-day ultras.
View on AmazonSpec-by-spec comparison
| Spec | Garmin Instinct 3 Solar 50 mm | Suunto Vertical |
|---|---|---|
| GPS battery | 60 h | 60 h |
| Multi-band battery | 34 h | Yes |
| Smartwatch | 40 days | 60 days |
| Weight | 60 g | 86 g |
| Maps | – | ✓ |
| Multi-band | ✓ | ✓ |
| Music | – | – |
| Display | MIP | MIP |
| Price | Mid-range | High-end |
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 Garmin Instinct 3 Solar 50 mm. Only Suunto Vertical brings onboard topo maps for navigation. On budget, Garmin Instinct 3 Solar 50 mm is the more affordable option.