Garmin Instinct review: specs and price

Dustproof/water-resistant at depth equal to or greater than 1 meter.

Resistance to sweat makes it ideal for use while doing sports.

The device has an electronic display to present information to the user.

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These devices will not experience water damage, e.g. in the shower. Devices which can withstand more water pressure are better for swimming or diving.

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GPS enables global positioning, useful in map, geo-tagging or navigation apps.

A heart rate monitor can help show your fitness levels, enabling you to calculate a suitable intensity of exercise.

An accelerometer is a sensor used to measure the linear acceleration of a device. A common application is detecting when a device changes between vertical and horizontal positions.

This measures barometric air pressure. It can predict weather changes, for example a sudden drop in air pressure could mean a storm is coming. When calibrated correctly it can be used to determine altitude, which helps GPS devices to lock on quicker and with greater accuracy.

A compass is useful in games, map and navigation software.

3D compass is a compass that will show accurate readings also when the compass is tilted. Therefore you don’t need to keep the compass on level ground to get steady readings.

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It tracks how far you travel.

Measuring pace shows how much time it takes to travel one kilometer or one mile. For example, in running, a 4 minute kilometer would be a very good pace.

Your activity data is analysed to give you reports, available to view through the app or website. This allows you to see how active you have been and to help you make improvements.

With a route tracker you can add your route onto a map. It is helpful if you plan to do the same route again, or want to share it with your community.

This is useful if you are on a strict training diet or if you are trying to lose weight. It can also help to boost your motivation.

Allows you to set your own goals, such as reaching 15,000 steps in a single day.

The device syncs all of your data wirelessly, without the need for cables.

Bluetooth is a wireless technology that allows you to easily transfer data between different devices, such as smartphones, tablets and computers.

It is compatible with a range of Android devices such as smartphones and tablets.

ANT+ is a wireless protocol similar to Bluetooth Smart, and is very power efficient. It is mainly used for fitness monitoring devices such as heart rate monitors and cadence sensors to connect to other devices, eg. sports watches, smartphones and cycling computers.

It is compatible with a range of iOS devices such as iPhones, iPads and the iPod Touch.

The device automatically syncs your data when in range of your computer or smartphone.

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An indicator shows you when the device has low battery.

With a longer battery life, you don’t have to worry about charging the device as often.

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There is less chance that you will run out of battery during an adventure.

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The battery can be recharged and used over again.

When your paired smartphone is running low on battery, the smartwatch will notify you.

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The battery is removable and can be replaced by the user if broken.

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Vibrating alerts have a variety of uses, such as interval training.

Your tracking data is uploaded via your smartphone or computer, and is available to view on the manufacturer’s online portal in the form of reports and graphs.

You can upload different maps to your device. It is handy for people who like to explore new places.

The device can wake you using vibration, so as not to disturb anyone else sleeping in the room.

You are awarded achievements for reaching goals, helping to encourage you and keep you motivated.

It can periodically download data on the future position of GPS satellites. This enables it to lock on much faster, so you don’t have to wait around to get a GPS fix.

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With more USB ports, you are able to connect more devices.

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