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New Garmin HRM watches w/o optical sensor

Former Member over 4 years ago

Hi,

I just wonder, why all new Garmin HR watches have the optical HR sensor integrated? Why there are no XX0-models (or Fenix) anymore? I have the Forerunner 630 and would survive far enough, but its battery and mechanical buttons starting to wear significantly.

In my opinion, the optical sensor looks ugly knoll. It is useless for me because I only wear the watch during exercises and have always HR-belt on. And most of the year wearing the watch on a jacket.

Maybe the optical sensor space could be filled with bigger battery or more compact watch size.

Or am I only a rare exception and 99,999% of all users need the optical sensor behind the watch...

0 tmk2 over 4 years ago

Or am I only a rare exception and 99,999% of all users need the optical sensor behind the watch...

This is probably the case. And it's not that 99.9% users NEED and optical sensor. They WANT an optical sensor, whether it's useful or not.

0 Former Member over 4 years ago in reply to tmk2

Yeah, but Garmin could try to offer some xx0-model, for example custom made unit. Probably the optical sensor is a $1 part in a mass production, so a watch without it, could be more expensive if selling rate is lower. Also a new firmware and a watch backplate/-housing. But I would still consider buying that kind of watch.

0 tmk2 over 4 years ago in reply to Former Member

Yeah, but Garmin could try to offer some xx0-model, for example custom made unit.

Economically unfeasible, given that almost nobody would choose a more expensive unit without the optical sensor, and that significant changes in the manufacturing process would be required.

0 Former Member over 4 years ago in reply to tmk2

Yes, if we compare two similar models (xx0 or xx5). There must be some advantages w/o optical sensor. Maybe some would sacrifice the sensor over a larger battery capacity in the same watch size. Or more compact size.

Changes in the production should be no show stopper. Writing a notice into firmware to use HR-belt instead of optical sensor (where needed) and a new changeable insert to the injection mold, will take about 1/2 day. Components in the PCB-assembly can be easily left out (optical HR module seems to be on an own separate PCB in many Garmin models). Manufacturers today have quite flexible manufacturing lines.