Garmin Instinct 3 vs Instinct E: Which Garmin Rugged Watch Should You Choose?

Garmin has something for everyone in its Instinct lineup — from high-performance models to lighter, more affordable variants.

If you’re torn between the Instinct 3 and Instinct E, here’s how they compare so you can choose the right watch for your needs.

1. Design and Build

Both watches maintain the iconic rugged look of the Instinct series, but the Instinct 3 features more premium finishes with metal-reinforced bezels, limited-edition colorways, and is available in two sizes: 45 mm and 50 mm.

In contrast, Instinct E has a simpler fiber-reinforced polymer case and comes in two compact sizes: 40 mm and 45 mm, making it lighter, more minimal, and budget-friendly.

2. Display and Interface

Instinct 3 offers two display types: AMOLED and Solar (transflective MIP), giving users the option to choose between a vivid screen or extended battery life.

Instinct E only has the basic MIP screen without solar or AMOLED options. If display clarity and customization matter to you, Instinct 3 clearly takes the lead.

3. Flashlight and Safety

A standout feature of the Instinct 3 is the built-in flashlight, now standard across all models, even the 45 mm size.

It offers multiple intensities and a red light mode for emergencies and night use.

Instinct E lacks this feature entirely.

4. Battery and Charging

Battery performance is a major differentiator:

• Instinct E: Up to 14 days in smartwatch mode for the 40 mm size and 16 days for the 45 mm size.
• Instinct 3 Solar: 45 mm – up to 28 days, 50 mm – up to 40 days in smartwatch mode. With sufficient sunlight, both models can deliver unlimited battery life.
• Instinct 3 AMOLED: 45 mm – up to 18 days, 50 mm – up to 24 days in smartwatch mode.

This range makes the Instinct 3 especially suitable for extended adventures and training, while still offering display variety.

5. Health and Fitness Features

Both watches offer a full suite of Garmin's trusted health and fitness tracking tools — including heart rate monitoring, Pulse Ox, HRV Status, Body Battery, stress tracking, advanced sleep insights, women’s health tracking, and more.

Whether you choose Instinct 3 or Instinct E, you’ll have access to the same core wellness features for a holistic health monitoring experience.

6. GPS and Navigation

The Instinct 3 includes multi-band GPS with SatIQ™, optimizing accuracy while preserving battery life.

It also supports TracBack routing, altimeter/barometer/compass sensors, and can pair with the Garmin Explore™ app.

Instinct E features standard GPS and ABC sensors but lacks SatIQ and multi-band capabilities.

7. Price and Purpose

• Instinct E (40 mm and 45 mm): Priced at ₹35,990, aimed at beginners or casual users.
• Instinct 3 Solar (45 mm): ₹46,990; Solar 50 mm: ₹52,990
• Instinct 3 AMOLED (45 mm): ₹52,990; AMOLED 50 mm: ₹58,990

While Instinct 3 is more expensive, it offers significantly better value through premium features, longer battery life, safety tools, and a modernized experience.

Exclusive Hint Premium Offer

When you buy any Garmin watch from the Clearcals Store, you get 1 month of Hint Premium free (worth ₹1,999).

Hint Premium includes:

• Unlimited expert dietitian consultations
• Personalized diet & workout plans
• Advanced nutrition tracking

This makes the Instinct 3 + Hint combo perfect for users who want expert-level fitness and nutrition support.

Final Thoughts

Choose the Garmin Instinct 3 if you want top-tier performance, long battery life, and all-around outdoor and health-tracking excellence.

Opt for the Instinct E if you're new to GPS smartwatches or want a rugged but simplified watch at a budget-friendly price. Either way, you get Garmin’s trusted reliability — and the same great health tracking across both models.