For years, Garmin has dominated the rugged smartwatch segment with a signature feature: the integrated LED flashlight, beloved by users like ZDNET contributor Matthew Miller for its daily practicality. Now, Amazfit is disrupting that monopoly with the T-Rex 3 Pro, marking the first time a sub-$500 watch offers comparable tactical lighting. This isn't just another fitness tracker—it's a calculated strike at Garmin's stronghold, blending affordability with expedition-ready durability.

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The flashlight isn't a mere add-on but a versatile tool. It supports red and white LEDs with three brightness levels, plus programmable safety modes for activities like night runs, where it can pulse in custom patterns. Miller notes, 'Amazfit may have implemented the LED flashlight after Garmin's success, but the company has added customization Garmin lacks.' This innovation addresses a glaring gap; as Miller emphasizes, competitors like Coros, Suunto, and Apple have consistently overlooked the feature despite user demand.

Beyond the flashlight, the T-Rex 3 Pro boasts MIL-STD-810H ruggedization, operating in temperatures as low as -30°C, and sapphire crystal displays. Available in 44mm and 48mm sizes, it caters to diverse wrists while delivering 19-day battery life (29 hours in GPS mode). New outdoor capabilities include downloadable ski resort maps with slope difficulty coding and a dedicated fishing mode that logs casts and catches—ideal for anglers seeking data-driven excursions.

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For health tracking, Amazfit integrates over 180 sport profiles, including niche options like dog walking, which adapts to erratic pauses and bursts. Sleep monitoring is enhanced by compatibility with Amazfit's Helio Ring or Strap, syncing data seamlessly when the watch's bulk makes overnight wear impractical. Yet, the watch's speaker and microphone enable Zepp Flow voice commands and calls, adding everyday convenience.

At $400, the T-Rex 3 Pro undercuts Garmin's flashlight-equipped models by hundreds, potentially reshaping budget-conscious adventurers' choices. As Miller advises, 'The LED flashlight alone makes this a standout,' highlighting how Amazfit's move could pressure rivals to innovate beyond premium price tags. For an industry often focused on incremental updates, this launch proves that listening to niche user needs—like a simple beam of light—can ignite the fiercest competition.

Source: Based on reporting by Matthew Miller for ZDNET.