Software Version: 11.10, GPS: 4.50, WiFi: 2.60, CIQ: 3.2.0, BMX: 0.9.2, WHR: 0.09.02, ANT/BLE/BT: 6.06, Sensor Hub: 7.12
Advanced heartbeat analytics by Firstbeat: ETE: 6.6.6.0, THA: 2.1.3.0
Dear Garmin Support,
I've seen a number of complaints about the HR accuracy, of my device, in the forums. My HR accuracy seems to be "in the ballpark" and my resting heart rate seems to be what I'd expect (i.e. 58 bpm, verified manually and against my $150 Fitbit). However, there is something strange occurring with the Abnormal Heart Rate Alerts. It periodically alerts and shows my HR has spiked to very high values (e.g. 170+ bpm, and the alarm rings), but, I had not been doing anything active for quite a while (i.e. well past the 10 threshold). Checking my pulse manually (during these spikes), and/or checking my $150 Fitbit (on my other wrist), shows my heart rate to be right around 60 bpm.
Now, either I'm about to die of a heart attack (very concerning the first number of times), or there is something wrong with my fenix 6 Sapphire (and my wife's fenix 6S Sapphire).
I believe we are wearing the devices correctly (above the wrist), the sensors are clean, and we're at room temperature. We don't have paired chest straps with them, but we're not going to wear a chest strap 24/7, and I believe this may be an issue with the Abnormal Heart Rate Sensor or Software.
Questions:
- Could I possibly be doing something to cause this?
- Is there a fix for this issue?
- Is there a short-term workaround that will minimize this (e.g. power down/up the device to clear memory, etc.)?
I used to own a Microsoft Band II and, apart from the wristband and battery issues, the device was extremely accurate (i.e. in all areas: HR, sleep, steps, activity, etc.). When they discontinued it, I was quite disappointed and purchased a $150 Fitbit Charge II. It too was pretty good, but not quite as accurate as the MS Band (though, very easy to use).
Recently, I decided to go with "the best" (i.e. Garmin). Your reputation sold me and I spent the extra money (i.e. way more money than the Fitbits or MS Bands), to purchase fenix 6 and 6S Sapphires, because I didn't want to deal with "the headaches of inferior devices". If I'm honest, the functionality seems OK, a little cumbersome to use, and the most common functions (e.g. HR, sleep, steps, etc.) seem to be "on par with" or "less accurate than" my old Fitbit. The devices are very nice looking and seem to have a ton of potential (of which, I've just scratched the surface). I really wanted to love these devices even more than the MS Band II's. However, if there is no fix available (or, coming soon), then I must admit some "buyers remorse", and, will regretfully consider returning our devices.
Thank you for helping me resolve this issue.
Very respectfully,
Jon
