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Garmin CIRQA review: New wearable sensor accuracy tested against Fitbit Air, Apple Watch Ultra 3, WHOOP

Marty S.

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The 5K Runner’s testing showed the Garmin CIRQA drifts noticeably on heart rate during high-intensity intervals compared to Fitbit Air, Apple Watch Ultra 3, and WHOOP; accuracy-minded buyers should wait for Garmin’s response and more independent testing before deciding.

Marty’s Take:

Marty here: heart-rate drift is fine for a treadmill jog, disqualifying for interval work where you’re pacing off zone. If your training actually depends on real-time accuracy, skip the Garmin CIRQA at $199.99 until a firmware fix lands and put the money toward something proven in our best fitness tracker roundup instead.

Shop mentioned gear: Apple Watch Ultra 3 | Fitbit Air | Garmin CIRQA

Source: The 5K Runner

📖 Our deep dive: Best Fitness Tracker

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Marty S.

Marty S.

Marty is a contributor at Fitness Tech Trends, focused on helping readers cut through the noise and make informed decisions about fitness technology. He dives deep into product comparisons, analyzes features that actually matter, and breaks down technical specs into practical insights. Whether readers are choosing between heart rate monitors, deciding on recovery tools, or figuring out which smartwatch fits their training style, Marty aims to provide straightforward, no-hype guidance. When he’s not researching the latest gear, he’s probably testing theories about what makes certain products stick while others fade into the gadget graveyard.