Browse all 10 Garmin watches in our database.
Garmin makes watches for people who actually use them. While other smartwatches try to do everything, Garmin focuses on what matters to athletes: accurate GPS, comprehensive training metrics, and battery life measured in weeks instead of hours.
The Forerunner series serves runners with pace, distance, heart rate zones, recovery time, and training load analysis. The Fenix line adds outdoor navigation, ABC sensors (altimeter, barometer, compass), and multi-sport capability for triathletes and adventurers. The Enduro pushes battery life to months.
What separates Garmin is training intelligence. Body Battery shows your energy levels. Training Status tells you if you're productive, peaking, or overreaching. Recovery Time estimates when you're ready for your next hard workout. These features, developed with exercise scientists, provide guidance that basic fitness trackers can't match.
The trade-off is a less polished smartwatch experience than Apple or Samsung. App ecosystems are limited, voice assistants are basic, and displays aren't as vibrant. But for serious athletes who prioritize performance data, Garmin remains unmatched.
Based on 10 watches in our database
Budget
$499
Typical
$563
Premium
$999
Typical used/pre-owned prices (MSRP where market data unavailable) | Updated daily
Common questions about garmin watches
The Forerunner 265 offers the best balance of features and price for most runners. The Forerunner 965 adds maps and longer battery. The Forerunner 55 is excellent for beginners. All provide accurate GPS and comprehensive run metrics.
Garmin GPS is among the most accurate available in wearables. Multi-band GPS models (Fenix 7, Forerunner 965) are exceptionally accurate, even in challenging environments. Standard GPS is reliable for most training purposes.
Battery life varies dramatically by model. Basic Forerunners last 1-2 weeks in smartwatch mode. Fenix lasts 2-3 weeks. Enduro can last months. GPS use reduces life significantly. Garmin consistently outperforms Apple and Samsung on battery.
For serious athletes, yes. Garmin offers more training metrics, better GPS accuracy, and dramatically longer battery life. Apple Watch is better for general smartwatch features, iPhone integration, and health monitoring. Choose based on priorities.
Limited capability. You can view notifications and send preset replies. Full texting requires your phone. Garmin prioritizes fitness features over smartwatch communication. If texting matters, consider Apple or Samsung.
Runners: Forerunner series (265 or 965). Hikers/Outdoor: Fenix or Instinct. Golfers: Approach series. Triathletes: Forerunner 965 or Fenix. Ultrarunners: Enduro. Casual fitness: Venu series for better smart features.