Garmin is gearing up to release its brand-new fitness band, the CIRQA. Priced at $199, the screenless tracker is being pitched as a one-time purchase with no hidden fees — a clear jab at rivals like Whoop that require monthly memberships.
However, initial hands-on testing reveals a big catch: without a monthly subscription, you will miss out on basic fitness features that most people expect from a heart rate monitor.
The Paywall Hiding in Plain Sight
Garmin heavily advertises that the CIRQA does not need a paid plan to function. While that is technically true, refusing to pay the extra $6.99 per month for a Garmin Connect+ subscription drastically limits what the device can do.
For starters, paid subscribers get access to extra features like guided workouts, meditation sessions, and nutrition tracking. But the real surprise lies in how the band handles basic workout data during your training sessions.
No Live Heart Rate Without Paying Extra
Early testing by tech reviewer DC Rainmaker highlights a major limitation for non-subscribers. If you do not pay the monthly fee, you cannot view your live heart rate while working out. You also lose access to real-time heart rate zones.
Because the CIRQA has no screen, users rely entirely on their smartphone to view their stats. Without a subscription, the app will only display your average heart rate since the workout started. For anyone doing interval training, high-intensity workouts, or cardiac-zone training, an average number is practically useless. On top of that, structured workouts are also locked behind the paywall.
How It Stacks Up Against Competitors
This move puts Garmin in an awkward position compared to other brands:
-
Polar Loop ($199): Shows live heart rate data out of the box without extra monthly costs.
-
Amazfit Helio Strap: A much cheaper alternative that still provides real-time workout tracking for free.
-
Standard Garmin Watches: Even lower-end Garmin smartwatches let you follow structured workouts and see live heart rate stats on their screens at no additional cost.
Is It Truly “Subscription-Free”?
By hiding basic, real-time heart rate metrics behind a paywall, Garmin is stretching the definition of a subscription-free device.
The CIRQA officially goes on sale on Friday, July 24. While the sleek design and 10-day battery life will attract plenty of interest, buyers looking for accurate, live workout stats will need to factor an extra $6.99 a month into their budget.
