# Is Garmin the Best Outdoor Smart device for fitness tracking? **URL:** https://discuss.privacyguides.net/t/is-garmin-the-best-outdoor-smart-device-for-fitness-tracking/35158 **Category:** General **Created:** 2026-02-03T04:05:24Z **Posts:** 41 ## Post 1 by @securitybrahh — 2026-02-03T04:05:24Z Pebble lacks sensors Asteroidos watches lack sensors I don’t like Banglejs Apple watch with ADP is okish but needs an iPhone companion, but I daily drive Graphene OS only Only option seems to be Garmin with Gadgetbridge, but which model? --- ## Post 2 by @anon80329175 — 2026-02-03T05:27:06Z I still think Apple is the best option here. If course, us GOS users are left in a pickle since it requires iPhone. --- ## Post 3 by @anon91877062 — 2026-02-03T12:20:04Z Tbh I think any Garmin will do. I like my Instinct 2 because of the MIP display, 30d battery, and lack of a “smartwatch feel” (feels more like a GShock) If you look at Mozilla’s [Privacy Not Included privacy reviews of fitness trackers](https://www.mozillafoundation.org/en/privacynotincluded/categories/fitness-trackers/), Garmin and Apple are listed as “less creepy”. You can use a Garmin without an account (everything stays on your watch), or you can have granular control over what is sent to Garmin. I’ve used both Apple Watch and Garmin. Both are great as fitness trackers, but I’m happy with Garmin at the moment, especially that it means I’m not tied to Apple (and that I don’t have to charge my watch every night…). Polar seems to collect even less data, but some [recent research](https://the5krunner.com/2026/01/14/garmin-connect-privacy-review-2026/) comparing Garmin Connect with other fitness apps has shown Garmin doesn’t collect any nonessential data nor do they share data with third parties. Garmin’s transparent about what they collect data types for. --- ## Post 4 by @anon91877062 — 2026-02-03T12:31:18Z Also I’ve used my Garmin with GOS. I installed Connect via Aurora store, though I can’t comment too much on it because I only sync workout data. I don’t use it for Bluetooth notifications. --- ## Post 5 by @Throwaway — 2026-02-03T12:50:20Z You can also sync your workout data via WiFi and don’t need Bluetooth at all after initial setup. --- ## Post 7 by @anon0179693 — 2026-02-03T12:52:58Z when it comes to privacy, garmin follows the “You give it to them, they have it, anything third party integration is beyond our control and we’ll only share what you consent to them” type of approach. I think almost any garmin watch is decent, would you like garmin pay or not? --- ## Post 8 by @Throwaway — 2026-02-03T12:53:48Z Garmin sells a bewildering number of watches at various price points with overlapping features. There are likely many watches that meet your needs. There are YouTube channels dedicated to reviewing them. You need to give more specifics on what you want. There are other fitness brands to consider, too. --- ## Post 9 by @anon91877062 — 2026-02-03T14:13:58Z Not on my Instinct 2. It doesn’t have built-in Wi-Fi, so I have to use Bluetooth. I guess other models can? --- ## Post 10 by @Throwaway — 2026-02-03T14:22:06Z I have the Vivoactive 5, which has WIFI. --- ## Post 11 by @securitybrahh — 2026-02-03T14:49:31Z > **[Fitness Tracking WITHOUT Big Tech | Gadgetbridge, Garmin](https://www.youtube.com/watch?app=desktop&v=zZ5krc82LIM)** > > Today I talk about my new fitness tracking without using big tech apps. I am using a Garmin Forerunner 55 with the FOSS app Gadgetbridge.#garmin #gadgetbridg... --- ## Post 12 by @securitybrahh — 2026-02-03T15:04:15Z > [@Throwaway](#): > > You need to give more specifics on what you want. There are other fitness brands to consider, too. Sensors, I need all the sensors, there can be on a wrist. > **[Features – Garmin Wiki](https://wiki.garminrumors.com/Category:Features)** > > Features are the software capabilities and health/fitness monitoring functions available on Garmin watches and wearables. --- ## Post 13 by @Throwaway — 2026-02-03T15:22:53Z Some of their newer more expensive watches have an upgraded heart rate sensor that does ECG. Not all of their watches do stair counts. Their watches are cool but the product lines are a confusing mess of brands and features. Good luck sorting through all of that. --- ## Post 14 by @securitybrahh — 2026-02-03T16:03:14Z [https://www.reddit.com/r/GarminWatches/comments/1g8u4ai/simple\_guideexplainer\_for\_all\_the\_watches\_which/](https://www.reddit.com/r/GarminWatches/comments/1g8u4ai/simple_guideexplainer_for_all_the_watches_which/) [https://www.reddit.com/r/GarminWatches/comments/1c5m2j4/can\_someone\_explain\_garmins\_watch\_lineup\_to\_me/](https://www.reddit.com/r/GarminWatches/comments/1c5m2j4/can_someone_explain_garmins_watch_lineup_to_me/) --- ## Post 15 by @kissu — 2026-02-03T17:55:26Z > [@securitybrahh](#): > > Sensors, I need all the sensors, there can be on a wrist. You know that those sensors are at best: an approximation and not to be taken too seriously? Not a precise tool for anything, can even be a scary placebo if being honest. [https://invidious.nerdvpn.de/watch?v=T58o49xcZE4](https://invidious.nerdvpn.de/watch?v=T58o49xcZE4) People get too worked up if their wearable says that they had a good/bad night. I had an Apple Watch Ultra myself for 15 months. Gave it back because of the metrics not being _that_ critical while the ecosystem sucking big time. I’d focus on something open, with a decent battery and potentially hackable so that you could integrate HomeAssistant or other things to it. Hence I still vouch for Pebble on my side. --- ## Post 16 by @anon91877062 — 2026-02-03T18:10:31Z So real. Every couple of months, I’ll wear my Garmin 24/7 just to get an idea of where my metrics are at (I prefer wearing “dumb” watches). One night, I couldn’t sleep from about 12-3. Woke up and my Garmin said I had a full 8.5 hours of sleep—straight through when I was up, moving around, and reading. Another example is how pathetic treadmill running tracking is (I know it’s difficult but still). Heart rate monitoring has gotten better. I think the appeal is how it gamifies fitness. If it makes you move more, eat healthier, sleep more, that’s awesome and translates to better quality of living. But the metrics are AT BEST gross estimations. The most I use my Garmin for is outdoor runs (distance and heartrate). I’d love to get my hands on a Pebble… --- ## Post 17 by @anon51983832 — 2026-02-03T18:12:13Z The Quantified Scientist channel offers the best metrics. The best smartwatches are Apple’s and then Google’s. > **[The Quantified Scientist](https://www.youtube.com/@TheQuantifiedScientist?app=desktop)** > > Looking for a scientific view on wearables? Look no further! My name is Rob, and I am a scientist who is into all sort of wearables, but wants to make sure they are accurate. On this channel, I test different devices, and see how I can use them to... --- ## Post 18 by @kissu — 2026-02-03T18:19:41Z > [@anon91877062](#): > > I think the appeal is how it gamifies fitness. If it makes you move more, eat healthier, sleep more, that’s awesome and translates to better quality of living. I did exactly that. Can get toxic very quickly when the metric becomes a goal. Now I don’t track my steps (manual treadmill) and it is a breath of fresh air to not be obsessed with it. Yes, very gross estimations indeed. :slight_smile: > [@anon51983832](#): > > The Quantified Scientist channel offers the best metrics. The best smartwatches are Apple’s and then Google’s. I watched this one too yes. Differences are marginal and still very approximate overall. It’s not like you’re in a controlled lab environment with actual professional gear tracking your vitals like this one. ![iu](https://forum-uploads.privacyguidesusercontent.com/original/3X/8/0/804bbc5be10dbb0ab6102ea8f2e6de3bd93c5ad3.jpeg) --- ## Post 19 by @va3890hd — 2026-02-03T19:39:49Z All Garmin devices get a decent score on [Mozilla’s “Privacy Not Included” Reviews](https://www.mozillafoundation.org/en/privacynotincluded/categories/wearables/). Honestly even if they were more privacy-invasive, I would still consider keeping my watch because I absolutely love my Garmin Epix. I mostly use the watch itself to check out my data; if I need more information I check out the [Garmin Connect webpage](https://connect.garmin.com) that my watch uploads to via WiFi. I don’t have the Garmin Connect app on my phone due to privacy concerns and I like to keep my phone as barebone as possible. --- ## Post 20 by @kissu — 2026-02-03T19:45:14Z > [@va3890hd](#): > > f I need more information I check out the [Garmin Connect webpage](https://connect.garmin.com) better than the mobile app for sure, but you still are sending metrics elsewhere. :sweat_smile: Overall, I guess that it’s clear that Garmin is the best **trail watch** if you want something sturdy, long-lasting and dumb in terms of apps. Not sure if OP wants a **smart** watch (with a proper apps ecosystem and fancy bells) or if they meant **wearables** as a whole without needing the extra fluff. The **smart** ecosystem doesn’t have a clear winner as of today besides an Apple Watch Utra or early-stage hobbyists projects that are very DIY. :sweat_smile: --- ## Post 21 by @va3890hd — 2026-02-03T20:05:07Z > [@kissu](#): > > better than the mobile app for sure, but you still are sending metrics elsewhere. Yeah I debated in my mind website vs app (don’t need both) and settled on the website, but I’m totally open to having my mind changed. The watch itself already provides plenty of information but I definitely need either the website or the app to look at more details and edit some data. --- ## Post 22 by @Throwaway — 2026-02-03T20:12:25Z > [@kissu](#): > > I did exactly that. Can get toxic very quickly when the metric becomes a goal. > Now I don’t track my steps (manual treadmill) and it is a breath of fresh air to not be obsessed with it. Lots of stats but I’ve decided to keep it simple and just focus on the few metrics that are relevant to my goals. --- ## Post 23 by @anon92357554 — 2026-02-03T23:15:04Z Gadgetbridge has been building out Garmin functionality. > **[Garmin watches - Gadgetbridge](https://gadgetbridge.org/gadgets/wearables/garmin-watches/)** > > A free and open source Android application for bluetooth devices. Personally, I started w/ the most supported watches on their site first, and then weighed my options from that group via online reviews. I ended up w/ an AmazFit watch. Works w/ GrapehenOS and never have to share data outside of an email address and the initial watch setup. --- ## Post 24 by @Tux — 2026-02-04T01:26:30Z I would categorically refuse any kind of “smart” watch (or any other “smart” device) that cannot be used offline. --- ## Post 25 by @Grapeg — 2026-02-04T04:22:25Z I’m using a huawei watch fit 3 with gadgetbridge. It works very well for fitness, sleep tracking SMS notifications. And the battery lasts a week, which is surprisingly important once you have it. I tried amazfit but found the gadgetbridge link process too challenging. I miss some things about my Samsung watch 6 but overall I prefer my setup now (paired with Pixel 8 running grapheneos) --- ## Post 26 by @securitybrahh — 2026-02-04T06:40:35Z > [@kissu](#): > > You know that those sensors are at best: an approximation and not to be taken too seriously? Outdoorsy sensors? Barometer, temperature etc? > [@kissu](#): > > I’d focus on something open, with a decent battery and potentially hackable so that you could integrate HomeAssistant or other things to it. Hence I still vouch for Pebble on my side. Seem to be the case > **[Why Does a Smartwatch that was Dead for 10 Years Still Have the Best Software...](https://parkerortolani.blog/2026/01/10/why-does-a-smartwatch-that.html)** > > I love smartwatches. In fact I’ve loved wrist worn tech since I was a little kid. I’ve owned more than a dozen Apple Watches, several Android Wear based watches, a variety of fitness-focused devices, and of course several Pebble watches. I’m well... --- ## Post 27 by @kissu — 2026-02-04T09:22:31Z > [@securitybrahh](#): > > Outdoorsy sensors? Barometer, temperature etc? I don’t think it has any of those unfortunately. But that’s a tradeoff I’m fine with if it allows for a 4 weeks battery life. Eric made a few concessions on the core essentials sensors instead of bloating it with things people don’t always need. You can always write a quick app to have those metrics fetched by Bluetooth into your watch if you have your phone/other computer around with Bluetooth. The pebble is **less** smart with fewer sensors, more boring screen (no shiny dopamine’d OLED colors) and doesn’t come with a lot of internal storage, nor Apple Pay etc…but that’s because it is something different and not an n-th iteration of the same BS[[1]](#footnote-137054-1). It focuses on doing things differently and doing them very well. Eric’s blog posts + videos explain it thoroughly if you’re interested by the mindset of the creator. :slight_smile: * * * A quote from the article above > “There’s an app for that” applied to the original Apple Watch for a few years before the platform’s app focus teetered off Exactly how I felt with my ex-Apple Watch Ultra, got so excited and hit rock bottom when I saw the awful and poor quality app’s ecosystem on WatchOS. :unamused_face: (on top of being SUPER locked down) * * * :index_pointing_up:t2: Excellent article that I agree fully with. One point that is worth extra points for me is the fact that I could just develop and app for my personally owned Pebble without dealing with any of the iOS/Android stores nonsense BS. By pulling and building from a Git repo. All of that for free, fully FOSS and with plenty of fun/customizability. I never was excited by mobile development (because of those Big Tech gatekeepers) but this is quite different and refreshing. Also, will feel nice to have something that works in 10 years+ unlike all the other junk currently available. So yes, I’m very excited to receive mine. :star_struck: * * * 1. he states clearly that it’s not supposed to be a competitor to the Apple Watch Ultra :+1:t2: [↩︎](#footnote-ref-137054-1) --- ## Post 28 by @securitybrahh — 2026-02-04T11:05:40Z For health maybe a ring, is a better option. [https://codeberg.org/Freeyourgadget/Gadgetbridge/pulls/3896](https://codeberg.org/Freeyourgadget/Gadgetbridge/pulls/3896) --- ## Post 29 by @kissu — 2026-02-04T11:08:28Z It is not that much better[[1]](#footnote-137065-1) and the sad reality is: there is no decent ring on the market that is without subscription yet decent. Eric is releasing a [voice recording ring](https://repebble.com/index), maybe he’ll add some of those in a future iteration? :hugs: * * * 1. still not at a location that can guarantee good enough measurements of the metrics [↩︎](#footnote-ref-137065-1) --- ## Post 30 by @securitybrahh — 2026-02-04T11:51:31Z I think I will go with Garmin Instinct solar as the build looks like Casio Pro track / G-Shock. Lol at the end, I just settled for how it looks haha. Sad there are no details about which sensors the watches have, there should be a matrix somewhere. --- ## Post 31 by @anon91877062 — 2026-02-04T12:15:03Z Instinct is great for GPS and “outdoorsy”! It also has breadcrumb navigation, useful for backcountry (or running-exploring). If you opt for Instinct 2 (not as feature-rich as the 3) it has a MIP display, so not light-emitting and I love it. --- ## Post 32 by @kissu — 2026-02-04T22:31:02Z > [@securitybrahh](#): > > Lol at the end, I just settled for how it looks haha. Damn. :rofl: I mean, I guess you were looking for a **trail** watch then. Anyway, enjoy! :+1:t2: --- ## Post 33 by @Throwaway — 2026-02-05T00:44:17Z > [@securitybrahh](#): > > I think I will go with Garmin Instinct solar as the build looks like Casio Pro track / G-Shock. That’s the one Garmin that looks like it’s meant to be thrown against rocks without any concern of damage! --- ## Post 34 by @BiggishDoctor — 2026-02-05T11:29:41Z The Garmin Instinct is the cheapest watch they sell as a “hiking” watch locally. It has GPS, magnetic compass, a barometer/altimeter and temperature sensor (although it tends to be inaccurate when you’re wearing it). In my experience the accuracy seems ballpark correct, but I have seen nonsensical readings. Probably best to verify them where possible. I’m not so sure about the newer Instinct 3 models. But on Instinct 2 I was able to use most features I care about without syncing the app at all. Although I eventually did download the app for the few conveniences it adds. Using only the watch is just a bit of a pain given that you have to use buttons to scroll through probably over a hundred settings. The new “AI” coaching features are in my opinion a pretty clear indication that Garmin harvests data. So using something like gadget-bridge where you aren’t sending it to their servers is probably good privacy wise. --- ## Post 35 by @securitybrahh — 2026-02-06T04:56:27Z The solar feature seems slick too --- ## Post 36 by @Showplace8087 — 2026-02-06T05:48:48Z Just throwing this out there but if you want something with sensors that looks like a g-shock you can get an actual g-shock. They make a couple models that have ABC sensors, heart rate, step counter, blood oxygen, etc.. and you can use them with or without the app. Both also have MIP displays. The two I’m referring to are the GBD-H2000 which is more geared towards fitness but still has the g-shock toughness and the GPR-H1000 Rangeman which is more outdoor/rugged style. I have both and wear them often. I got rid of my Garmin Instinct Solar 2X. The ABC sensors are pretty spot on accurate and the fitness sensors are actually Polar brand sensors so they’re on par with Garmin as far as heart rate and step counting goes. If you choose to use the app you can use a fake name, burner email and all that. I used it for a while with the internet access turned off but eventually got rid of it cause I rarely used it. If you have your mind set on a Garmin with an MIP display, definitely go for the 2nd generation Instinct as the “newer” 3rd generation uses the exact same sensors as the 2. Basically would be paying more money for the same watch. --- ## Post 37 by @securitybrahh — 2026-02-06T07:10:51Z > [@Showplace8087](#): > > I got rid of my Garmin Instinct Solar 2X. Why? Garmin seems to be an expert in sensors, they make industrial ones as well if I am not wrong. Their app store seems to be having some things if not at par with pebble. I just ordered a colmi ring as well from aliexpress lets see how that goes with gadgetbridge. It was dead cheap so had to try. --- ## Post 38 by @kissu — 2026-02-06T07:45:39Z > [@securitybrahh](#): > > a colmi ring Oh wow, it has good support for Gadgetbridge? Okay, it went from Trash tier to God like in a second indeed. Didn’t knew such a thing would exist, good call. :+1:t2: Let’s just see how the battery performs now! :low_battery: * * * > [@securitybrahh](#): > > Their app store seems to be having some things if not at par with pebble. I heard that their software is quite meh + seen the UX in person and yeah… :sad_but_relieved_face: But hey, if GadgetBridge works well for your specific model then why not. :blush: --- ## Post 39 by @Linus_Sex_Tips — 2026-03-30T14:21:50Z I’m holding out for the Garmin Cirque which should be released in May or June depending on leaks. It’s a screenless wrist band, like Whoop or the one Polar released last year. --- ## Post 40 by @anon91877062 — 2026-03-30T14:59:48Z Yeahhhh I’m kinda stoked fro this… Esp if it doesn’t require a subscription. I use my Instinct 2 for tracking runs, but I don’t like wearing it all the time. Interested to see how this one plays out. --- ## Post 41 by @unfocused8 — 2026-05-03T15:07:50Z Personally, I like my Garmin watch because it has a screen. I get my morning report without having to open my phone. Plus, quickly glancing on notifications without having to pull ou my phone, helps me to spend less time on my phone. But more importantly, seeing the breadcrumb trail on my wrist makes all the difference while hiking and running. For me, this is single best feature of any fitness watch. > [@kissu](#): > > Oh wow, it has good support for Gadgetbridge? I have tried using Gadgetbridge with my Garmin Instinct 2x but after a few weeks the apps stops syncing with my phone. I have tried uninstall the app, use the beta version, always with the same result.