The health functionality of the watch is quite nice - the ability to track workouts over time is helpful for those serious about trianing. Seeing progress in fitness level over time is also motivational.

Unfortunately the quality of the watch is subpar. The watch face is plastic and seems like it will easily scratch. The band on this particular version of the T3, though it looks nice in the pictures, is also cheap plastic. The spring loaded and locking clasp somewhat makes up for the cheap band. The inverted LCD on this model also looks cool in the pictures but makes the watch more difficult to read.

Overall I'm impressed with the functionality of the watch, and the ability to add additional features with pods is nice. But the price is far higher than it should be for a watch of this quality, and the pods are far too expensive. Other heart-rate watches cost 1/3 what the Suunto T3 does, and adding a $80 pedometer or $130 GPS only increases the cost without adding features that are really necessary except for all but the most serious training athletes. 3 stars

Hi - I've used a lot of training devices in the past. My list includes Polar HRM of several models, the garmin 301 GPS model, stopwatches and a finger, even the new Nike/iPod combo and this one really takes the cake for me. I have a scientific background and work in the tech industry, but even though I understand math and engineering, it's not what I want when I am working out. I want simplicity, reliability and features that sit there until I ask for them. I don't want to get a degree in deviceology to make it work each and every time I'm out for a run, hike or bike. Sometimes I am training for a marathon or triathlon - so I'd prefer my unit be capable to help me reach those goals when I need to plan workouts and analyze data about how my training is going - but the wrist unit itself has to be intuitive and stay out of the way when I just want to work out.

This model can expand with GPS, or two different bike modules, or a foor pod if distance measurement is something you want in addition to HRM and time of training data. It also can be used with the SmartBelt (which cost extra). The smartbelt will work with the T3 during exercise (just like the included HRM measurement belt that you wear around your chest), but the optional Smartbelt stores advanced workout metrics so you could geek out with PC/coach and truly train like the pros if you wish.

The unit is well designed, thin, utilitarian yet not overly geeky (I would take it off for a black tie event, but that's about the only time it's not appreciated on my wrist as a watch). The batteries in the watch and transmitter are consumer servicable and the built in training software is a joy to use. Yes, there are five overall modes to the watch and there are no tiny text to help remind you what buttons do which - so you do need to read the manual or get help from someone else (Suuntu discussion boards are free online help from other users of the products). Once you master the basics of how the buttons affect the watch software - you will feel comfortable focusing on your workout and not operating a device.

I am really impressed how well the unit works and the intelligence and design that went into the interface, the training software that is built in - as well as how well the display works. The built in logs also are great with detailed review of the 15 most recent workout, plus cumulative and summary data for the current week, last week, and each of the last 6 months data. 5 stars

Pros:
-Looks nice (I receive a lot of compliments)
-Heart rate monitor is comfortable, unobtrusive, and very accurate
-Lots of heart rate training modes

Cons:
-Cheap plastic face that scratches very easily
-The clasp on the band constantly pops open
-The buttons stick out so far that every time you bend your wrist back or bump your arm the watch changes to a different mode. This happens CONSTANTLY and is extremely irritating.
-It is very complicated to try to figure out all the different training modes
-No compass or altimeter settings that are common on most other Suunto watches

Bottom line:
Suunto has been making great watches for long enough that they should have been able to avoid the mistakes they made when designing this watch. This watch is definitely overpriced for the product that you get. If your looking for a good heart rate monitor you can find models by Polar with all the same features of the T3 for about half the price. 2 stars

I traded in my Polar and waited for this watch to be released. I had doubts about the Training Effect feature, but after using it a couple times at the gym, it works great and helps to push me to make sure I get a good workout. The only drawback is that the face of the watch is plastic and may scratch, but I guess that is what you get for a watch under $200. So far though, I am very happy with the watch and its features, its very easy to use and since it has a 3 line display, you can get all the information you need while working out without hitting the buttons all the time. Both batteries can be user replaced which is nice and the belt has no crosstalk with the other machines, ie. other gym equipment. I would definitely suggest this watch if you are serious about getting into shape or monitoring your workouts. The other nice thing is that you can switch out the bands if you don't like a certain color or want to change the looks of the watch. 4 stars

Hi Everyone,

Dont go with the appearance of this watch. This watch appear attractive in picture but in reality its cheap plastic. the black clasp is plastic and the most dissapointing thing is you couldnt see the time or any data in the watch because its so dark. also light dose not illuminate the watch more than 3 sec. what good is the watch if you cannot see clearly the details. Please make a decision wisely and I would recommend not to go by the loook.
1 star