For years, I struggled with a Polar heart rate monitor. i would got to wet the strap, sometimes wait up to 20 minutes for it to “warm up” and detect a signal, and endure constant signal “drop outs” making massive gaps in my coaching information. Eventually, i’d had enough, and determined to do this particular Suunto t3d Heart Rate Monitor because it was on sale at REI. i’ve been using it for three months currently and i am extraordinarily satisfied.
First, the watch looks really nice. it’s extremely slim and doesn’t scream “training laptop,” thus it’s positively suitable to wear at the workplace, whereas traveling, or pretty much anywhere while not looking of place.
When you place the heart rate strap on, the signal is picked up immediately. i have never had to dampen the electrodes or wait for it to warm up; you merely place the strap on, turn the watch to coaching mode and you’re smart to travel. The signal is extraordinarily solid; you’ll be able to do pretty much any physical activity during this thing despite how much it contorts your torso and the watch can still devour your heart rate no problem.
The interface is admittedly a trifle confusing, but with some practice you’ll get used to it. Recalling information is easy, there is multiple time zone support, stopwatch… pretty much each basic perform you’d expect. The calories burned perform is, as far as I will tell, terribly accurate once you subtract the calories you’d have burned sitting still.
As far as cons go, there are very few. The battery life is good, although not pretty much as good as on my Polar (I had to exchange the t3ds battery once regarding three months of heavy, near-daily use). Others have complained that the screen is tough to browse, although personally I actually have no problems.
Over-all, if you are looking to pay but two hundred bucks and obtain a particularly reliable heart rate monitor, this is your watch.