From 2015, when the first Whoop wristband launched, until the recent release of the Whoop 5.0, the American brand had been the dominant force in the market for screenless connected bracelets. These devices track health metrics like heart rate, sleep, and activity levels without a screen, often relying on a smartphone app for data display. While Whoop led the way, competitors like Amazfit, Polar, and Google have since entered the scene with their own models. Now, Garmin, a well-known name in fitness and outdoor gear, has finally entered the segment with its new product, the Garmin Cirqa, bringing both a delayed entry and a unique approach. The Cirqa features a simple closure system with three small scratch strips, which allow for quick adjustments compared to the more elegant buckle system used by Whoop. While the design is less refined, the scratch strips stay securely in place and the fabric dries quickly after water exposure. This makes the Cirqa suitable for wearing in the shower or during swimming. However, the test model sent by Garmin was the L/XL version, which was too large for a user with a smaller wrist. The tight fit caused the strap to lift slightly on the other side of the wrist, indicating that sizing could be an issue for some users. The Cirqa comes in four colors—black, navy blue, linen, and pink—but the casing remains black regardless of the strap color. Additional strap colors are available for purchase separately, though the options are limited compared to Whoop, which offers a broader range of materials and clothing accessories with built-in slots for the bracelet. On the back of the device, the optical sensor and a standard Garmin charging port are visible, which means the Cirqa must be removed from the wrist to charge. A small LED indicates the device's status, and a physical button is included, which can be used to start or stop activities and manage alarms. The Garmin Connect app, which is central to using the Cirqa, has received mixed feedback. While it offers basic features like tracking sleep, heart rate, and readiness for training, the interface feels outdated and cluttered. The app was updated with a few new features, but these seem more like superficial changes than a complete overhaul. Garmin also offers a paid subscription called Garmin Connect+ for 8.99 euros per month, which unlocks additional features, though many are not compatible with the Cirqa. One positive note is that the app is free to use without a subscription, which sets it apart from some competitors. The Cirqa uses an older optical heart rate sensor (Elevate Gen 4), which performed well during most tests but missed some readings during more intense activities. The device claims 10 days of battery life, but actual results ranged between 7 and 12 days, depending on usage. Charging takes about an hour, and the Cirqa must be removed from the wrist to charge, which is less convenient than the wireless charging offered by Whoop. The Cirqa has been available since late July 2026 at a price of 199.99 euros, with additional strap and bicep mount options available for purchase. While it offers solid functionality, it faces stiff competition from established players in the screenless wearable market.