A Garmin watch can typically last up to 5-7 years before it starts having issues. This comes as no surprise since Garmin watches have a reputation for being durable and well-built.
I can back this up as I have been using one for a few years. So far, it works perfectly and hardly ever troubles me. It may look scuffed, but the components inside are as good as new.
When buying a smartwatch or any other gadget, most consumers prioritize the product’s durability. So Garmin takes this aspect of the watch seriously and produces watches with robust and long-lasting components.
Although the built quality of Garmin Smartwatches is great, their durability still depends on other factors. Let’s take a closer look at these factors.
Factors that affect the durability of a Garmin watch:
Some factors can influence the life of your Garmin smartwatch. Here are a few of them.
Usage of the watch:
How long the watch can last depends on how you use the device and how much you are willing to take care of it.
They take care of it and keep the watch away from falling or breaking apart. Using the smartwatch in such a way can last for a long time, such as 5-6 years or even a decade, before buying a new one and throwing away the old one.
However, if you use it roughly and don’t take precautions, its overall life is reduced. The watch can get damaged or break down if used in such a manner. The activities performed Whilst wearing the Watch.
Another factor you can consider in this situation is the activities performed while wearing the watch. Suppose you like biking, mountain climbing, or water rafting; the likelihood of the watch getting damaged increases.
But if they fall onto the ground with impact, nothing can stop their screen from getting cracked. This is a risk that always comes with these activities.
Battery health:
The battery health of the watch can also play a vital role in determining how long it can last. Just like our phones, Garmin watches also have rechargeable batteries. These rechargeable batteries have a finite life and can deteriorate over time, causing them to lose their capacity.
However, the deterioration can be reduced or increased depending on how you use your smartwatch. If you put your smartwatch on charge overnight, it damages the battery’s health, reducing battery life. This can lead to the battery losing its charge faster, thus dwindling the time it can last.
To save battery health from decreasing, you can take a few measures. You should charge the watch up to 90% rather than charging it fully. This precautionary step helps prevent the watch from being overcharged and keeps the battery in optimal condition.
How long do Garmin Vivoactive watches last?
The Garmin Vivoactive is one of the most reputable models in the Garmin catalog. The Vivoactive is a mid-range option but still has performance up to par with some expensive models.
The features in this watch include heart rate monitoring, pace, and distance tracking, and much more. The watch can gather precious data which can give insights into your fitness lifestyle.
When talking about its battery life, the Vivoactive performs well. Like all the other Garmin watch models, Vivoactive also has a long and durable battery life.
The newest watch in this series, the Vivoactive 4, will give you a maximum battery life of 8 days if used in the smartwatch mode. However, the battery life highly depends on the usability of the watch. If you use the watch in GPS mode, the battery life will be around 18 hours.
The more you use it, the lower the battery life goes. The reason is that when your watch has more tasks to do, the stress on the battery increases.
When the power consumption of the watch is the highest, the battery life can decrease to 4.5 hours. The same is the case with Vivoactive 4s which has a maximum battery life of 7 days and a minimum battery life of 3.5 hours.
How long does Garmin Forerunner watch last?
Garmin Forerunner is another model of Garmin smartwatch. Forerunner is one of the most popular models and is always in demand. It may be a bit pricey, but it’s worth spending on it as it has excellent features combined with high-quality components and intelligent design. This watch is made for people who like to run. It shows GPS to track pace, distance, and intervals on a 26 mm display.
When it comes to battery life, it is one of the best in that department. This depends on which mode you use it in. The forerunner 955 solars can last up to 20 days in Smartwatch mode, assisted by its solar charging. Its battery life can drop to 49 hours when used in GPS mode.
Once again, the time a fully charged battery can last also depends on how much you use it. The more activities you perform on it, the lower the battery life gets. Another watch in the forerunner series is Forerunner 45.
This watch has a battery life of 7 days in the Smartwatch mode and 13 hours in the GPS mode. Its battery life is comparatively less than the other watches in this series. This is explained by its price tag, as it’s the cheapest in the Forerunner category.
Faqs
Q1: How long can I expect my Garmin watch to last?
A: The lifespan of Garmin watches varies depending on the model and usage. On average, Garmin watches can last between 5 to 10 years with proper care and usage. Battery life, software updates, and overall device performance play a significant role in determining how long the watch will last.
Q2: What factors can affect the lifespan of a Garmin watch?
A: Several factors can influence the lifespan of a Garmin watch, including the frequency of use, the intensity of activities it’s exposed to, battery charging cycles, and software updates. Regular maintenance, such as cleaning and avoiding extreme conditions, can also extend the watch’s life.
Q3: Can the battery of a Garmin watch be replaced?
A: Yes, many Garmin watch models come with replaceable batteries. However, it’s essential to check the specific model and consult the user manual or Garmin customer support for guidance on battery replacement. Some models might require professional assistance for battery replacement.
Q4: How often do Garmin watches need software updates?
A: Garmin regularly releases software updates to enhance features, fix bugs, and improve overall performance. It’s recommended to check for updates at least once a month and install them promptly to ensure your watch functions optimally. Regular updates can also prolong the lifespan of your Garmin watch.
Q5: Can Garmin watches be repaired if they develop issues after the warranty period?
A: Yes, Garmin provides out-of-warranty repair services for their watches. If your watch encounters problems after the warranty period, you can contact Garmin customer support or visit an authorized Garmin service center for assistance. They can assess the issue and provide repair options.
