Garmin Instinct 3 Watch Faces: Customize, Download & Personalize Like a Pro

A watch face is one of the best ways to make the Garmin Instinct 3 unique. Whether it’s a super-functional layout filled with useful data, or something more eye-catching, this watch has tons of options.

From preloaded designs to downloading your own, you can customize how your smartwatch will look and what info it will provide in a glance view.

Throughout this tutorial, I will show you everything from exploring the preloaded watch faces to changing and customizing them, to downloading new ones for a wider selection.

Let’s get started.

Exploring Preloaded Watch Faces on the Garmin Instinct 3

The Garmin Instinct 3 comes with a variety of new preloaded watch faces, and they aren’t just about looks—they’re built to enhance usability too.

You can display key metrics like heart rate, steps, elevation, and more, all in different styles.

Garmin has made an effort to offer watch faces for every kind of user, whether you’re an outdoor enthusiast or just using it for everyday convenience.

How to Browse the Preloaded Watch Faces

Accessing the preloaded watch faces is easy:

1. Press and hold the Menu button on the watch.
2. Use the GPS button to select the “Watch Faces” option.
3. Scroll through the list with the ABC button.

You’ll find a range of styles, from minimal digital layouts to detailed options with multiple data fields.

Unique and Standout Watch Faces

Some new watch faces are especially exciting for Garmin Instinct 3 users. The designs are sharp, functional, and unique to this model.

Whether you prefer a sleek, modern look or something rugged and detailed, there’s likely a default option that matches your vibe.

Plus, these are ready to use immediately—no downloads or syncing are required.

Rotating Between Watch Faces

Switching between the preloaded options is simple:

1. After selecting a face with the GPS button, press it again to apply the watch face.
2. The selected design will instantly become your main interface.

If you like variety, you can cycle through your favorites anytime. Preloaded watch faces are incredibly convenient, as there’s no waiting for downloads, and they perform seamlessly on the device.

How to change Garmin Instinct 3 watch face

Changing your watch face requires just a few taps and can be done in seconds. The process is straightforward, whether you’re exploring the preloaded options or trying out newly downloaded designs.

Accessing the Watch Face Menu

To start, you’ll need to enter the watch face menu:

1. Press and hold the Menu button to open the settings.
2. Scroll down to the “Watch Faces” option using the ABC button.

Selecting and Applying a WatchFace

Once you’re on the menu, here’s what to do:

1. Scroll through the available watch faces using the ABC button.
2. When you find one you like, press the GPS button to select it.
3. Press the GPS button again to apply it as your main watch face.

That’s it! Your new look should appear as soon as you confirm your choice.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

If you run into hiccups, like a slight menu lag or difficulty navigating:

• Double-check that you’re pressing the correct buttons.
• If the GPS button isn’t responding, try restarting the watch.

These steps rarely fail, but it’s good to know how to troubleshoot if needed.

Customizing Watch Faces on the Garmin Instinct 3

While the preloaded watch faces are impressive, customization is where the Garmin Instinct 3 shines. By tailoring the design and data fields, you can make the watch face work perfectly for your needs.

Accessing the Customization Features

Customization starts the same way as changing a watch face:

1. Go to your current watch face in the settings by pressing and holding the Menu button.
2. Select the face you want to edit using the GPS button.
3. Choose the “Edit” option to begin making changes.

Editing Data Fields

Data fields are the text elements on your watch face—think steps, calories burned, or heart rate. To modify them:

1. Highlight the watch face you want to edit.
2. Navigate to the “Data Fields” option with the ABC button.
3. One by one, choose which data you’d like to display in each available field.
4. Confirm selections using the GPS button before moving to the next field.

Changing Watch Face Colors

Prefer a brighter look? Or maybe something darker for energy conservation? No problem. You can easily adjust the color scheme:

1. Scroll to the “Color” settings within the customization options.
2. Select between a white background, black background, or other available options.
3. Use the GPS button to apply your changes immediately.

Saving Your Customizations

Once you’re done, saving is easy:

1. Hit the Back button to exit.
2. Confirm that you’d like to save your changes.

Your personalized watch face is now ready to use.

How to Download More Watch Faces

If the preloaded options don’t cut it, the Garmin Connect IQ Store has you covered. This free app expands your watch face library with hundreds of extra designs to suit any aesthetic or functionality you’re looking for.

Installing the Connect IQ Store App

First, you’ll need to download the Connect IQ Store app. Here’s how:

1. Open your phone’s app store (Google Play or iOS App Store).
2. Search for “Garmin Connect IQ Store.”
3. Download and install the app.

Keep in mind, that the Garmin Instinct 3 requires both the Connect IQ Store app and the main Garmin app for full functionality.

Browsing the Watch Face Library

Once the app’s installed:

1. Open the Connect IQ Store and sync it with your Garmin Instinct 3.
2. Navigate to the Watch Faces category.
3. Browse trending and popular designs to find one you like.

Downloading and Syncing New Watch Faces

When you find a watch face that catches your eye:

1. Select it in the app.
2. Click the Install button and allow any necessary permissions.
3. The watch face will download to your connected smartphone first, and then automatically sync to your device.

Depending on the file size and your internet speed, the process should only take a minute or two.

Setting Your Downloaded Watch Face

Once synced, the new watch face will appear in your device menu. To set it:

1. Follow the usual steps for changing a watch face: access the menu, scroll to the new design, and apply it with the GPS button.

Downloaded faces work just like preloaded ones and can be customized further if needed.

Advanced Tips and Tricks for Watch Faces

Beyond the basics, there are a few extra tips to get even more out of your Garmin Instinct 3 watch faces.

• Managing Watch Faces: Delete unused faces to keep your options clear and device performance top-notch.
• Using Favorites: Mark frequently used designs for quicker access.
• Optimizing Battery Life: Choose simpler watch faces without animations to conserve energy.
• Exploring Paid Options: Some premium watch faces in the Connect IQ Store are worth considering for advanced features or special designs.

Final Thoughts on Garmin Instinct 3 Watch Faces

The watch face options on the Garmin Instinct 3 under $400 on Amazon offer incredible flexibility. Whether you stick with the preloaded designs, customize them, or explore the seemingly endless choices in the Connect IQ Store, you can make the device truly yours.

Experiment, have fun, and enjoy the power of personalization with your Garmin Instinct 3.

Have questions or tips on Garmin Instinct 3 watch faces? Let us know in the comments.

Explore the full potential of Garmin Instinct 3—personalize your smartwatch now

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