I have both the VA3 and (recently) the Fenix 5X. For me the push to buy the 5X was the sensor dropouts on the VA3. I am more and more convinced that the problem is hardware. So, I looked at the Fenix5/5S and read on multiple forums that they also have some dropout problems with particular sensors. Although they work fine with most sensors. The consensus seems to be that the issue is the design of the Ant+ antenna. However, the Fenix 5X was thought to work reliably with every sensor. So, I bought one even though it is bigger than I like, expensive, and has maps and navigation that I thought I didn't care about. However, I am very happy with the 5X. There are minor (for me) bugs reported but in general the forums are quiet about problems. For me the watch just works- not a single dropout in many hours of workouts with a half dozen different sensors (multiple power meters, HR straps, speed/cadence sensors, footpods). Great elevation data. The watch just works for me. And, surprising to me, the maps are quite readable and actually useful.
I thought the sensor dropout issue only appears when external sensors (i.e. speed and cadence) are used in combination with the internal wrist HR sensor?
I always use an external HR chest strap when exercising, and I have never experienced any sensor dropouts. (Note: I don't use any other sensors!)
The F5X is certainly an option and indeed has had pretty good feedback from users, but it's hardly an apples to apples comparison. For some people the cost difference is an issue for others the size of the watch makes it a non-starter.
Not to say that people aren't having sensor issues and that it should be solved, but simply saying "If you're having sensor problems just buy an F5X instead" isn't helpful to most.
For some people the cost difference is an issue for others the size of the watch makes it a non-starter.
Those were the exact reasons why I didn't go for the Fenix-series. The cost is way too high for someone who doesn't want to throw money around and who is more of a fitness hobbyist than an athlete who needs pro gear. On the other hand, today people are buying 500-1000-dollar phones to take a few selfies while chatting, googling and listening to music (all of which you can do with a 100-300-dollar phone although I'll admit the photos will not be up to par) so I can see why many feel the cost difference between say F5X and VA3 is negligible.
I previously owned the VAHR which had the rep of having all the essential features of the Fenix-series minus the cost and bulky size so that's why I had the confidence to get VA3 and trust it will fulfil my activity tracking needs.
I am not saying that forking out big money for a F5X is for everyone. For me, I want stuff that just works and I am willing to pay more to get it. I don't want to waste time fighting with everything I own. After 9 months with various VA3 bugs I found I was using it less and less because of that. So, for me, the F5X was a solution. Maybe not from everyone. That is why I put "consider" in the title- something to think about.
I've upgraded from the VA3 to the Fenix 5 this week, no sensor drops, superb battery life and the step counter is really accurate and the only thing I miss is the lack of quick replies to messages that the VA3 has and Fenix does not (though I've submitted a feature request)
