
Our Verdict
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Amazfit T Rex 3 | |||||
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Awards | ![]() Great Value for a High-Quality GPS Watch | ![]() Best on a Limited Budget | |||
Price | $280 List $279.99 at Amazon | $399.00 at REI Compare at 3 sellers | $199.99 at Amazon Compare at 3 sellers | $229.00 at REI Compare at 3 sellers | $169.00 at Amazon Compare at 2 sellers |
Overall Score ![]() |
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Star Rating | |||||
Bottom Line | Pricer models offer more features and run dynamic metrics | Great craftsmanship and design with an updated UI, menu, and AMOLED display | We prefer a slightly larger screen for enhanced readability, those with smaller wrists will love the Forerunner 165 | This watch excels as an affordable GPS companion, offering value and dependable accuracy | An entry-level GPS watch that does everything you need without the advanced features found on the most premium models |
Rating Categories | Amazfit T Rex 3 | Suunto Race | Garmin Forerunner 165 | Coros Pace 3 | Garmin Forerunner 55 |
Accuracy (30%) | |||||
Activity Use (20%) | |||||
Everyday Use (15%) | |||||
Extra Features (15%) | |||||
Wearability (10%) | |||||
Battery Life (10%) | |||||
Specifications | Amazfit T Rex 3 | Suunto Race | Garmin Forerunner 165 | Coros Pace 3 | Garmin Forerunner 55 |
Measured Body Diameter | 51.0 mm | 49.0 mm | 43.0 mm | 41.9 mm | 42.0 mm |
Screen Type | AMOLED | AMOLED | AMOLED | MIP | MIP |
Measured Thickness | 16.0 mm | 13.3 mm | 11.6 mm | 11.8 mm | 12.5 mm |
Measured Battery Life with GPS | 40 hours | 50 hours | 19 hours | 34 hours | 19 hours |
Sensors Included | Heart rate, altimeter, barometer, compass, temperature, blood oxygen level | Heart rate, altimeter, barometer, compass, blood oxygen level | Heart rate, altimeter, barometer, compass, blood oxygen level | Heart rate, altimeter, barometer, compass, blood oxygen level | Heart rate |
Measured Charging Time | 150 min | 84 min | 103 min | 113 min | 111 min |
Measured Screen Width | 39.0 mm | 36.0 mm | 30.4 mm | 31.0 mm | 26.5 mm |
Measured Weight | 2.50 oz | 2.93 oz | 1.40 oz | 1.50 oz | 1.31 oz |
Battery Life Claims by Manufacturer | Typical Usage: Up to 27 days Battery Saver mode: Up to 40 days Clock mode: Up to 81 days Heavy Usage: Up to 13 days Accuracy GPS mode: Up to 42 hours Power Saving GPS mode: Up to 72 hours GPS Max: Up to 180 Hours Low Temperature mode (GPS on):Up to 28 hours Low Temperature mode (GPS off):Up to 32 days |
In Time mode: 26 days With 24/7 Tracking and Mobile Notifications: 12 days Training mode with GPS: 40h / 50h / 70h / 120h |
Smartwatch mode: Up to 11 days Battery Saver Smartwatch mode: Up to 20 days GPS-Only GNSS mode: Up to 19 hours All-Systems GNSS mode: Up to 17 hours |
Full GPS: 38 hours - 10 hours with music All Systems On: 25 hours - 9 hours with music Dual Frequency: 15 hours - 7 hours with music Daily Use: 17 days - 15 days with daily stress monitors |
Smartwatch mode: 2 weeks GPS: 20 hours |
Navigation | Detailed, back to start | Detailed, back to start | Breadcrumb, back to start | Breadcrumb, back to start | None |
Music Options | Control only | Control only | Control only | Downloaded control, storage | Control only |
Touchless Payment | Yes, curve only | No | Yes | No | No |
Sleep Tracking | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
Water Resistance (Max Depth) | 100 m | 100 m | 50 m | 50 m | 50 m |
Main Software App | Zepp App | Suunto | Garmin Connect | Coros App | Garmin Connect, widgets for other features |
Compatible with Other Software Ecosystems | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
Watch Face Material | Gorilla Glass | Sapphire crystal | Chemically strengthened glass | Mineral glass | Chemically strengthened glass |
Battery Type | Rechargable lithium ion | Rechargable lithium ion | Rechargable lithium ion | Rechargable lithium ion | Rechargable lithium ion |
Bezel Material | Stainless steel | Stainless steel | Fiber reinforced polymer | Glass fiber reinforced polyamide | Stainless steel |
Case Material | Polymer | Glass fiber reinforced polyamide | Fiber reinforced polymer | Glass fiber reinforced polyamide | Glass fiber reinforced polyamide |
Strap Material | Silicone | Silicone | Silicone | Silicone | Silicone |
Tools Required to Change Band | Yes | No | No | No | No |
Model Tested | Standard | Stainless steel | Standard | Standard | Standard |
Size Tested | One size only | One size only | One size only | One size only | One size only |
Warranty Offered | 1 year | 2 year | 1 year | 2 year | 1 year |
Our Analysis and Test Results
Amazfit continues to impress with its performance for the price. The T Rex 3's large case provides both a vibrant AMOLED display — without sacrificing battery life. This watch is suitable for both daily tracking and ultra-distance activities, and you can expect between 25-40 hours of GPS tracking. With dual-band satellite capabilities, you can be confident in your tracking and accuracy. The large case size and lack of some running dynamics and metrics may be a dealbreaker for some, but if you are looking for a good value GPS watch with performance to match, this is a great option.
Accuracy
To assess accuracy, we measured both GPS precision and heart rate tracking using a consistent 2.80-mile route and a Polar H10 chest strap for baseline HR data. Each watch was tested under the same environmental conditions, with timestamps aligned to ensure fair comparisons across devices. We also included a mix of steady pacing and moderate surges to test responsiveness and consistency in real-world scenarios.
The Amazfit T-Rex 3 impressed us with its reliable GPS accuracy and stable heart rate tracking, especially considering its lower price point. The GPS track was clean and closely matched the actual course distance, with minimal drift even under tree cover. Heart rate readings held up well against the chest strap baseline, averaging about ±2–4 BPM, and maintained solid consistency throughout moderate activity. For a watch in this price tier, the accuracy-to-cost ratio is among the best we've seen.
Activity Use
The large, bright AMOLED screen on the T Rex 3 makes it easy to see your data even when on the move. There are over 150 sport modes to choose from, like running, biking, swimming, strength training, and winter sports. With the option for workout templates, you can implement some interval training. The watch also shares analysis of your fitness, providing metrics like VO2 max, recovery time, and training load. These can be viewed both in the app and on the device. For those who want the latest running dynamic metrics available on brands like Garmin will have to wait.
The watch features detailed navigation and accepts route importing via the ZeppApp. Great for airdropping to friends before a big ride or run. Data page customization is easy and features hundreds of data metric options to fill out your perfect screen. You can receive turn-by-turn notifications, but don't expect any rerouting if you get off course. We still are going to pull out our phones for more complex route finding.
[Everyday Use
This is one of the better UIs and most closely matches the Garmin brand in both buttons and menu systems. I like that you can operate common functions with the dedicated button and not totally rely on the touchscreen. As with any AMOLED device, you will need to determine if you want to sacrifice battery life with the Always-On Display.
There is advanced sleep tracking and respiratory insights, and you can expect all the basics on the watch like notifications, calendar, weather, alarms, and music controls, and MP3 music storage. The main missing features found in some of the competition are a speaker, call answering, and credit card payments that work inside the US. All stats are viewable in the ZeppApp or can be synced directly to the Apple Health app if you prefer.
Extra Features
The T Rex 3 features widgets and apps like most other brands, which are useful for seeing items like sunrise/sunset, moon phases, tides, and weather forecast. This also gives you easy access to viewing the compass, barometer, thermometer, and altimeter. The Zepp Flow assistant can help use the microphone to control functions of the watch — like setting a timer or adding a calendar event. You can also access Zepp Aura from the app. This is a subscription-based service that helps provide deeper sleep assessment, meditation tips, and health tracking. As watches get more and more expensive, it's refreshing to see a company stick with the basics, provide a great experience, and not inflate the price for things you don't need or won't use.
Wearability
At 2.50 ounces, the Amazfit T-Rex 3 offers impressive durability without feeling overly heavy on the wrist. The stainless steel bezel adds a premium look and feel, while the polymer case helps keep the overall weight low and the price accessible. Its large 51 mm case houses a vibrant, high-resolution AMOLED display with minimal bezel, maximizing screen space without adding unnecessary bulk. The straps are soft, breathable, and tough enough for long-term use, though they lack the convenience of a quick-release system found in some competing models.
Despite its size, the watch wears surprisingly well thanks to a contoured design and low-profile case that sits comfortably during work, workouts, and even sleep. Its MIL-STD-810G military-grade durability and Corning Gorilla Glass make it a confident choice for rugged environments. I tested it across rocky terrain in the Colorado mountains without issue. While the large footprint won't appeal to everyone, those who prefer a bold, functional watch will likely find the T-Rex 3 both comfortable and capable.
Battery Life
The Amazfit T Rex 3 is at the upper end of battery life capabilities for an AMOLED device. This is great for those who are into ultra-distance activities or just want fewer things to charge. We got roughly 4 weeks in low daily use, and nearly 40 hours in GPS without using additional features like mapping or always-on. You can use the battery saver mode in daily use or the low-power mode during activities, but GPS accuracy will suffer. Amazfit includes a USB-C dongle, but you will need to supply your own cord. We found charging to take roughly two hours from empty. The Zepp app includes detailed power management tools and usage breakdowns.
Should You Buy the Amazfit T Rex 3?
The Amazfit T-Rex 3 is a compelling option for anyone seeking a rugged, full-featured GPS watch with standout battery life, a vibrant AMOLED display, and a surprisingly smooth user interface. All at a very reasonable price point. In our testing, it delivered dependable accuracy for both daily tracking and demanding outdoor activities, thanks to its dual-band GPS and wide sensor list. While its large form factor won't suit everyone, you will find it capable and durable for both adventure and everyday wear. If you're after a feature-rich multisport watch that won't break the bank, the T-Rex 3 deserves serious consideration.
What Other GPS Watches Should You Consider?
If the Amazfit T-Rex 3 catches your eye but feels too bulky, consider the Suunto Race, which is slightly smaller and our pick for best value. For an even more compact option, the Garmin Vivoactive 5 offers a slimmer design with solid features and an AMOLED display, though it's less rugged overall. Still, the T-Rex 3 offers unbeatable value, and few smaller alternatives can match its combination of durability, battery life, and performance at this price point.