15 best Garmin watches: 2025 comparison

Struggling to make sense of a Garmin watch comparison in 2025? You're not alone. With an enormous lineup of smartwatches to choose from, finding your perfect match can feel like navigating without GPS.

Since 1989, Garmin has been designing cutting-edge GPS navigation products, establishing itself as the industry standard for durability, wearability, and reliability. Whether you're a casual runner or an elite athlete, there's likely a Garmin watch tailored to your specific needs.

From the budget-friendly Forerunner 55 and 165 to the premium Fenix 8 or more, Garmin offers options across all price points. The Forerunner family ranges from basic models like the 55 and 165 to advanced options such as the 570 and 970, while specialised watches like the Enduro 3 cater specifically to hikers with its super-rugged design and solar charging capabilities.

In this comprehensive guide, we'll compare 15 of the best Garmin watches available in 2025, helping you understand which features matter most for your lifestyle and budget. After all, the longer you spend reading this article, the less time you'll waste charging your watch – because as you'll discover, battery life is just one of many factors that set these timepieces apart.

Interested in accessorising your Garmin? Check out our collection of Garmin straps and accessories.

Garmin Forerunner 570

The Forerunner 570 represents the middle ground in Garmin's running watch lineup, offering a refreshed design with vibrant colour options and premium features at a mid-tier price point. Released in May 2025, this model comes in two sizes - 42mm and 47mm - with an array of colour combinations to suit different preferences.

Forerunner 570 key features

The standout feature of the Forerunner 570 is undoubtedly its bright, responsive AMOLED display that offers excellent visibility even in direct sunlight. Wrapped in an aluminium bezel with a silicone strap, this watch strikes a balance between durability and style. The watch comes equipped with Garmin's latest Elevate v5 heart rate sensor, providing highly accurate readings during most activities.

Additionally, the Forerunner 570 includes:

• Built-in microphone and speaker for taking calls directly from your wrist
• Voice assistant compatibility for hands-free control
• Multi-band GPS for precise location tracking
• Support for over 74 different activity profiles, including triathlon tracking
• Free coaching plans for triathlons, running and cycling

Forerunner 570 pros and cons

Pros:

• Superb bright AMOLED display with excellent outdoor visibility
• Lightweight design (42g for 42mm version and 50g for 47mm version)
• Accurate GPS and heart rate tracking
• Fun, colourful design options
• Comprehensive training analysis and recovery tools

Cons:

• Higher price point compared to previous models
• No offline maps functionality, only breadcrumb navigation
• Missing ECG capability despite new sensor
• Battery life has decreased compared to predecessor
• Can be uncomfortable to wear during sleep for some users

Forerunner 570 battery life

The battery performance varies depending on usage patterns and enabled features. In smartwatch mode, the 42mm model lasts up to 10 days while the 47mm version stretches to 11 days. Moreover, when using GPS tracking:

• GPS-only mode: Up to 18 hours for both sizes
• All systems + Multi-Band GPS: 13 hours (42mm) or 14 hours (47mm)
• GPS with music playback: Approximately 8-9 hours depending on settings

In real-world testing with always-on display enabled, expect around 3-4 days between charges.

Forerunner 570 is best for

The Forerunner 570 is particularly well-suited for road runners and triathletes who value a vibrant display and accurate tracking without needing advanced features like offline maps. Furthermore, it's ideal for those who want a stylish daily smartwatch that excels during workouts. The comprehensive training tools make it perfect for data-driven athletes who follow structured plans, although serious hikers or trail runners might prefer models with mapping capabilities.

Garmin Forerunner 165

Launched in early 2024, the Garmin Forerunner 165 stands as the brand's most affordable AMOLED running watch, making advanced display technology accessible at a lower price point. This compact timepiece packs impressive features while maintaining a budget-friendly stance in Garmin's extensive lineup.

Forerunner 165 key features

The Forerunner 165 boasts a vibrant 1.2-inch AMOLED touchscreen display with 390x390 pixel resolution, offering exceptional readability in all conditions. Weighing just 39g with a plastic case and glass display, it remains comfortable for all-day wear. Notable features include:

• Multi-GNSS GPS (though not multiband)
• Barometric altimeter for accurate elevation tracking
• Garmin Elevate V4 optical heart rate sensor
• Standard 20mm quick-release wrist straps
• Garmin Pay contactless payments
• Music edition supports Spotify, Deezer, and Amazon Music

Forerunner 165 pros and cons

Pros:

• Exceptionally bright, responsive AMOLED screen
• Excellent value for money
• Comfortable, lightweight design for everyday wear
• Reliable GPS accuracy for most running environments
• Comprehensive sleep tracking with nap detection
• Safety features including emergency alerts

Cons:

• Shorter battery life than comparable models
• No triathlon/multisport mode
• Lacks training readiness, status and load features
• No multiband GPS for challenging environments
• Cannot connect to external power metres

Forerunner 165 battery life

The Forerunner 165 offers various battery durations based on usage mode:

• Smartwatch mode: Up to 11 days (4 days with always-on display)
• GPS-Only mode: Up to 19 hours
• All-Systems GPS mode: Up to 17 hours
• GPS with music playback: 6.5-7 hours
• UltraTrac GPS mode: Up to 25 hours

In real-world testing with daily training, expect about 5-7 days between charges.

Forerunner 165 is best for

The Forerunner 165 is ideally suited for road runners seeking a balance between price and performance. It's particularly well-suited for beginning or intermediate athletes who want comprehensive tracking without complex metrics. Given its compact size and everyday aesthetics, it works perfectly as both a training companion and daily smartwatch. Though it lacks some advanced features found on pricier models, it offers sufficient capabilities for most runners training for distances up to marathon level.

→ Check out our collection of Garmin Forerunner 165 straps.

Garmin Forerunner 970

Released in June 2025, the Forerunner 970 represents Garmin's flagship running watch, combining premium materials with advanced performance analytics. This triathlon-focused powerhouse sits at the higher end of Garmin's lineup, offering significant upgrades over its predecessor.

Forerunner 970 key features

The Forerunner 970 features a stunningly bright AMOLED touchscreen with increased display brightness and scratch-resistant sapphire crystal glass. The 47mm case is slightly thinner than previous models but wrapped in a premium titanium bezel. Noteworthy additions include:

• Built-in LED flashlight with white and red light options
• ECG capability and skin temperature monitoring
• Speaker and microphone for calls and voice commands
• New running metrics: running economy, impact load, and running tolerance
• Offline voice control system
• Full-colour TopoActive maps with improved clarity

Forerunner 970 pros and cons

Pros:

• Exceptional display brightness and readability in all conditions
• Comprehensive triathlon features superior to competitors
• Useful LED flashlight for visibility and safety
• Improved GPS battery life with music streaming
• Accurate tracking for swimming, cycling and running

Cons:

• Significant price increase
• Reduced smartwatch battery life compared to predecessor
• Requires additional HRM 600 chest strap to unlock full potential
• Some users report occasional bugs and lengthy setup process
• Menu system requires numerous clicks for non-standard tasks

Forerunner 970 battery life

The Forerunner 970 offers mixed battery performance results:

• Smartwatch mode: Up to 15 days (down from 23 days on previous model)
• GPS-only mode: Up to 26 hours
• All systems + Multi-band GPS: Up to 21 hours
• GPS with music: 12-14 hours (improved from 8.5-10.5 hours)
• Always-on display: Approximately 4 days with daily workouts

Forerunner 970 is best for

The Forerunner 970 is ideal for serious data-driven athletes, especially triathletes and ultra-runners seeking comprehensive performance analytics. It's exceptionally well-suited for endurance events with its improved GPS battery life. Additionally, it works perfectly for those who value premium materials and advanced mapping capabilities but prefer a lighter alternative to the Fenix series. Nevertheless, casual runners might find better value in Garmin's more affordable options.

Garmin Fenix 8

Launched in August 2024, the Garmin Fenix 8 stands as the brand's premium adventure watch with a notable addition of diving capabilities. This rugged timepiece effectively merges the former Epix series with the Fenix line, creating a unified premium offering.

Fenix 8 key features

The Fenix 8 comes in two distinct display technologies: vibrant AMOLED or battery-saving Solar with memory-in-pixel (MIP) display. The AMOLED version is available in three sizes (43mm, 47mm, 51mm), whereas the Solar variant comes in 47mm and 51mm options. A standout addition is the built-in microphone and speaker, enabling wrist calls, voice commands, and audio playback. The watch boasts a useful LED flashlight at the top of the case and new diving features including a depth gauge rated to 40 metres. All models (except the budget Fenix E) feature leakproof inductive buttons adapted from Garmin's dive watches. The display dimensions have increased, with the 47mm version now sporting the same 1.4-inch screen previously found only on larger models.

Fenix 8 pros and cons

Pros:

• Crisp, bright AMOLED screen readable in all conditions
• Premium build quality with titanium options and sapphire crystal
• Comprehensive feature set with over 100 activity profiles
• Useful LED flashlight for visibility
• Advanced mapping with improved interface

Cons:

• Extremely expensive
• Complex interface potentially overwhelming for newcomers
• Shorter battery life on AMOLED models compared to Solar variants
• Risk of damage anxiety given the investment
• Occasional bugs reported at launch

Fenix 8 battery life

Battery performance varies dramatically between models. The 51mm AMOLED offers up to 29 days in smartwatch mode with gesture wake (13 days with always-on display), whereas the 43mm version provides only 10 days. For GPS activities, the 51mm Solar variant delivers up to 149 hours in GPS-only mode, extending to 653 hours in max battery mode with adequate sunlight. In real-world testing, users with the 51mm AMOLED model reported approximately 15 days of battery life with around 8 hours of GPS usage.

Fenix 8 is best for

The Fenix 8 is ideally suited for serious adventurers, recreational divers, and those who value premium materials with comprehensive tracking capabilities. Indeed, it excels for multi-day expeditions with its extensive battery life, particularly in the Solar variants. Meanwhile, users seeking a premium everyday smartwatch might prefer the AMOLED models for their crisp displays. Currently, it represents Garmin's most complete outdoor watch package, essentially replacing both the previous Fenix and Epix lines in one unified premium offering.

→ Check out our collection of Garmin Fenix 8 straps.

Garmin Enduro 3

Redefining endurance boundaries, the Garmin Enduro 3 focuses exclusively on maximising battery life for ultra-athletes. Notably, Garmin has reduced the price from the previous model, making this powerhouse more accessible whilst simultaneously improving its capabilities.

Enduro 3 key features

The Enduro 3 features revolutionary solar technology with a redesigned panel that harvests 120% more power than previous models. This engineering feat combines a thicker black solar ring around the bezel with improved display clarity by removing the transparent solar panel that previously covered the screen. Built with premium materials, the watch features a titanium case and sapphire crystal display, yet remains remarkably light at just 63g.

Additional standout features include:

• New user interface with improved map navigation controls
• Dynamic round-trip routing that adapts to achieve specific distances
• Latest Elevate Gen5 optical heart rate sensor with ECG capability
• Built-in LED torch for visibility in low-light conditions
• Offline topographic maps with 32GB storage capacity

Enduro 3 pros and cons

Pros:

• Extraordinary battery life exceeding competitors by nearly triple
• Significant price reduction compared to predecessor
• Improved screen visibility with redesigned solar panel
• Lightweight design at 63g (10% lighter than previous model)
• Comprehensive training, recovery and navigation tools

Cons:

• Available in only one size (51mm) which may not suit smaller wrists
• Lacks speaker/microphone functionality found in Fenix 8
• Slightly thicker at 15.7mm versus 14.7mm for comparable Fenix 8
• No dive features unlike the Fenix 8
• MIP display not as crisp as AMOLED options

Enduro 3 battery life

The Enduro 3 offers truly remarkable battery performance:

• Smartwatch mode: Up to 36 days (90 days with solar)
• GPS-only mode: Up to 120 hours (320 hours with solar)[193]
• All satellite systems mode: Up to 80 hours (144 hours with solar)
• Multi-band GPS mode: Up to 60 hours (90 hours with solar)
• Max battery GPS mode: Up to 210 hours (unlimited with solar)
• Expedition GPS mode: Up to 77 days (unlimited with solar)

In real-world testing, one reviewer tracked 8 hours of exercise with GPS-only burning just 14% battery, confirming the exceptional endurance claims.

Enduro 3 is best for

The Enduro 3 is ideally suited for ultra-endurance athletes requiring exceptional battery life for multi-day events. Furthermore, it serves expedition enthusiasts needing reliable tracking in remote locations where recharging is impossible. This watch also appeals to technical outdoor adventurers who value lightweight yet durable construction for extended backcountry excursions. Overall, it represents Garmin's most focused approach to endurance, stripping away unnecessary features to deliver unmatched battery performance in the toughest conditions.

→ Check out our collection of Garmin Enduro 3 straps.

Garmin Instinct 3 Solar

Engineered for outdoor enthusiasts, the Garmin Instinct 3 Solar stands out with its practically unlimited battery life when exposed to sufficient sunlight. This rugged timepiece combines durability with advanced tracking capabilities at a mid-range price point.

Instinct 3 Solar key features

The Instinct 3 Solar boasts a robust design with a metal-reinforced bezel and scratch-resistant display. A standout addition is the built-in LED flashlight with variable intensities and red light mode. Other notable features include:

• Multi-band GPS with SatIQ technology for optimised accuracy and battery conservation
• Comprehensive health monitoring including heart rate, sleep tracking, and Pulse Ox
• ABC sensors (altimeter, barometer, compass) for navigation
• 100-metre water resistance rating

Instinct 3 Solar pros and cons

Pros:

• Exceptional battery life with solar charging
• Durable, military-grade construction
• Practical built-in flashlight for emergencies
• Accurate multi-band GPS tracking

Cons:

• Monochrome MIP display rather than AMOLED
• Limited smartwatch features compared to premium models
• Higher price point
• No on-device maps, only breadcrumb navigation

Instinct 3 Solar battery life

The 50mm version offers impressive endurance:

• Smartwatch mode: Up to 40 days (unlimited with solar)
• GPS-only mode: Up to 60 hours (260 hours with solar)
• All satellite systems with multi-band: Up to 34 hours (60 hours with solar)

Instinct 3 Solar is best for

This watch is ideal for hikers, trail runners, and outdoor adventurers who prioritise battery life and durability over advanced smartwatch features.

Garmin Venu X1

Blending premium design with advanced features, the Garmin Venu X1 represents Garmin's thinnest smartwatch ever at just 8mm thick. This rectangular timepiece bridges the gap between lifestyle smartwatches and serious sports watches with its titanium construction and distinctive approach.

Venu X1 key features

The Venu X1 boasts a massive 2-inch AMOLED display—the largest screen of any Garmin watch. This stunning rectangular display stretches right to the bezel edge, protected by scratch-resistant sapphire crystal. Interestingly, the watch features just two physical buttons combined with touchscreen controls, differing from Garmin's typical five-button layout. Additional standout features include:

• Built-in LED flashlight with white and red light modes
• Speaker and microphone for on-wrist calls
• Full offline mapping capabilities
• Voice notes functionality
• 32GB storage for music and maps

Venu X1 pros and cons

Pros:

• Exceptionally thin and lightweight design at 40g
• Premium materials with titanium case
• Powerful, bright display readable in all conditions
• Comprehensive sports tracking with 100+ activity profiles
• ComfortFit nylon band for all-day comfort

Cons:

• Significantly shorter battery life with always-on display
• Lacks ECG functionality
• Higher price point
• No multi-band GPS
• Limited physical buttons may frustrate some users

Venu X1 battery life

Battery performance varies by usage mode:

• Smartwatch mode: Up to 8 days
• Always-on display: Approximately 2 days
• Battery saver mode: Up to 11 days
• GPS-only mode: Up to 16 hours
• All satellite systems: Up to 14 hours
• All systems with music: Up to 7 hours

Venu X1 is best for

The Venu X1 is ideal for style-conscious athletes who want serious training features in a sleek, everyday design. First thing to remember, this watch suits those who prefer premium aesthetics without sacrificing core performance tracking. It particularly appeals to users coming from traditional smartwatches seeking Garmin's advanced fitness capabilities in a more refined package.

Garmin Lily 2 Active

Designed specifically for active women seeking style without sacrificing functionality, the Garmin Lily 2 Active combines elegant aesthetics with powerful tracking capabilities. This feminine timepiece offers a substantial upgrade from its predecessor with the addition of built-in GPS and extended battery life.

Lily 2 Active key features

The Lily 2 Active features a hidden display with a patterned lens that reveals a bright touchscreen with a quick tap or wrist turn. Its sleek design includes a 38mm metal case with two physical buttons for easier navigation. Beyond appearances, it offers:

• Built-in GPS for accurate outdoor activity tracking without a phone
• Support for over 30 activities including running, cycling, yoga, tennis, and even pickleball
• Health monitoring features including sleep score, HRV tracking, and nap detection
• Body Battery energy monitoring to track energy levels throughout the day
• Garmin Pay contactless payments

Lily 2 Active pros and cons

Pros:

• Impressive 9-day battery life in smartwatch mode
• Built-in GPS for phone-free tracking
• Compact and lightweight at just 29g
• Safety tracking features for peace of mind
• Garmin Coach compatibility for personalised training

Cons:

• Lacks offline music storage capabilities
• No colour display (uses 16-level grayscale)
• Limited detailed mapping on the watch face
• No always-on display option

Lily 2 Active battery life

The Lily 2 Active offers substantially improved endurance compared to its predecessor:

• Up to 9 days in smartwatch mode (versus 5 days on the original)
• 9 hours in GPS tracking mode
• Full charge in just over an hour

Lily 2 Active is best for

The Lily 2 Active is perfect for style-conscious active women who want comprehensive fitness tracking without the bulk of traditional sports watches. It suits everyday users who participate in various activities yet prefer a watch that doesn't look out of place with dressier attire. Additionally, it's ideal for those who value accurate GPS tracking for outdoor activities without needing extensive mapping capabilities.

→ Check out our collection of Garmin Lily 2 straps.

Garmin Approach S62

Tailored for golf enthusiasts, the Garmin Approach S62 combines premium GPS functionality with comprehensive golf course analytics in a stylish package. This advanced golf watch features a robust design that transitions seamlessly from course to everyday wear.

Approach S62 key features

The Approach S62 boasts a 1.3-inch colour touchscreen that's 17% larger than its predecessor, protected by scratch-resistant ceramic bezel and Gorilla Glass. Its standout features include:

• Virtual Caddie that analyses shot history, position and wind conditions to recommend ideal club selection
• Green View with pinpoint positioning for precise approach shots
• Hazard View providing distances to bunkers and water hazards
• Preloaded with over 41,000 golf courses worldwide
• Full fitness tracking capabilities including heart rate monitoring

Approach S62 pros and cons

Pros:

• Exceptional battery life compared to competitors
• Premium, durable design suitable for everyday wear
• Comprehensive golf analytics for game improvement
• Water-resistant to 5 ATM (50 metres)

Cons:

• Premium price point
• Larger size may not suit all wrists
• Limited non-golf apps compared to general smartwatches
• No music storage capability

Approach S62 battery life

In GPS mode, the watch delivers up to 20 hours of tracking, sufficient for at least three rounds of golf. In smartwatch mode, battery extends to approximately 14 days, making it ideal for weekend golf trips without requiring recharging.

Approach S62 is best for

The S62 is ideal for serious golfers who regularly play challenging or unfamiliar courses. It particularly suits those wanting both advanced golf features and comprehensive fitness tracking in one device.

Garmin Vivosmart 5

For those prioritising simplicity and affordability in fitness tracking, the Garmin Vivosmart 5 delivers comprehensive health monitoring capabilities in a streamlined, band-style design. This slim fitness tracker offers significant improvements over its predecessor, including a 66% larger display and interchangeable bands.

Vivosmart 5 key features

The Vivosmart 5 features a monochrome OLED touchscreen with an added physical button for improved navigation. It tracks numerous health metrics around the clock, including:

• Heart rate, sleep, stress, and steps
• Blood oxygen saturation (SpO2)
• Body Battery energy monitoring
• Respiration rate (breaths per minute)
• Comprehensive sleep tracking with sleep score

For activity tracking, the device supports 14 different workout profiles, including breathwork, HIIT, pilates, and pool swimming.

Vivosmart 5 pros and cons

Pros:

• Exceptional battery performance
• Extremely lightweight (24.5g/26.5g depending on size)
• Auto activity tracking capability
• Accurate sleep monitoring
• Comprehensive Garmin Connect app without subscription fees

Cons:

• No built-in GPS (connected GPS only)
• Monochrome display instead of colour
• Polycarbonate lens rather than toughened glass
• Touchscreen responsiveness issues when wet

Vivosmart 5 battery life

Officially rated for up to 7 days in smartwatch mode. In real-world testing, users report:

• 5-6 days with standard settings
• 4 days with 24-hour SpO2 monitoring enabled
• Only 2-3 days for some users with all features active

Vivosmart 5 is best for

Primarily suited for fitness tracking beginners or those who prioritise simplicity, comfort, and battery life over advanced features. Consequently, it's ideal for everyday health monitoring without the bulk of traditional smartwatches. The tracker particularly excels at sleep tracking, making it perfect for users focused on recovery metrics and wellness data.

→ Check out our collection of Garmin Vivosmart 5 straps.

Garmin Vivoactive 6

Positioned as Garmin's versatile hybrid fitness tracker-smartwatch, the Vivoactive 6 offers a balance of everyday functionality and fitness features at a mid-range price point. This approachable device maintains the lightweight design of its predecessor with an aluminium bezel and fibre-reinforced polymer case.

Vivoactive 6 key features

The Vivoactive 6 showcases a vibrant 1.2-inch AMOLED display with slightly improved brightness. In fact, the watch includes over 80 activity profiles alongside new running metrics like cadence, stride length, ground contact time, and running power. A standout addition is the smart wake alarm that monitors sleep cycles to wake you gently during your lightest sleep phase.

Vivoactive 6 pros and cons

Pros:

• Excellent battery performance
• Comprehensive sleep tracking with detailed insights
• Pace Pro feature for running guidance
• Breadcrumb navigation for route following
• Lightweight design at just 36g

Cons:

• No barometric altimeter for elevation tracking
• Lacks multi-band GPS found in premium models
• Limited smartwatch features compared to competitors
• No third-party apps
• Silicone strap can cause irritation initially

Vivoactive 6 battery life

In smartwatch mode, the Vivoactive 6 lasts up to 11 days. GPS tracking provides 21 hours in GPS-only mode and 17 hours in all systems mode. With music streaming, expect 8-9 hours of GPS tracking. In real-world testing, a 50-minute run consumed roughly 6% battery.

Vivoactive 6 is best for

Ideally suited for everyday exercisers seeking balance between fitness features and smartwatch functionality without a premium price tag. Perfect for recreational runners wanting advanced metrics and those valuing comprehensive health insights in a stylish package.

Garmin Instinct Crossover

The Garmin Instinct Crossover uniquely merges traditional analogue watch hands with rugged smartwatch functionality, creating a distinctive hybrid timepiece. Its analogue elements sit atop a digital display, moving aside when accessing detailed information.

Instinct Crossover key features

The Instinct Crossover features RevoDrive technology that automatically calibrates the watch hands if impacted. Its analogue hands and hour markers include Super-LumiNova coating for visibility in darkness. Remarkably, the watch supports multiple satellite systems (GPS, Galileo, GLONASS) for accurate tracking. Unlike earlier Instinct models, it offers a full square-ish display without the circular cutout.

Instinct Crossover pros and cons

Pros:

• Analogue hands with G-Shock aesthetic
• New GPS chipset with multiple satellite systems
• Impressive battery performance
• Garmin Pay on all models

Cons:

• More expensive than Instinct 2
• No maps at this price point
• Hands occasionally obstruct screen information

Instinct Crossover battery life

Standard edition offers 28 days in smartwatch mode and 25 hours in GPS mode. Solar models extend this dramatically to 70 days in smartwatch mode with adequate sunlight. Interestingly, expedition GPS mode reaches up to 40 days, stretching to 327 days with solar charging.

Instinct Crossover is best for

Primarily suited for outdoorsy individuals who appreciate traditional watch aesthetics without sacrificing smart capabilities. Currently, it excels for endurance athletes seeking reliable tracking with minimal distractions.

Garmin Epix Pro

The Garmin Epix Pro (Gen 2) elevates the sports watch experience with its stunning AMOLED display that delivers exceptional clarity and vibrant colours. Available in three sizes—42mm, 47mm, and 51mm—this premium timepiece caters to different wrist preferences while maintaining flagship features across all variants.

Epix Pro key features

The Epix Pro boasts Garmin's latest Elevate V5 optical heart rate sensor for improved accuracy. Notably, all models feature a built-in LED flashlight with four brightness settings and red-light mode, offering practical illumination for nighttime activities. Additional standout features include:

• ECG capability via firmware update
• Faster charging (approximately one hour versus two hours previously)
• New Hill Score and Endurance Score metrics for performance tracking
• Red Shift display mode for reduced eye strain after sunset

Epix Pro pros and cons

Pros:

• Exceptional AMOLED display clarity in all conditions
• Multi-band GPS now standard across all models
• Comprehensive training analysis with newer metrics
• 32GB storage capacity as standard

Cons:

• Shorter battery life with always-on display enabled
• Premium price
• Similar to Epix 2 with incremental improvements
• Occasional heart rate sensor issues reported

Epix Pro battery life

Battery performance varies substantially by model size:

• 42mm: Up to 10 days (4 days always-on)
• 47mm: Up to 16 days (6 days always-on)
• 51mm: Up to 31 days (11 days always-on)

Epix Pro is best for

The Epix Pro excels for serious data-driven athletes seeking a premium sports watch with an exceptional display. Currently, it's ideal for those wanting comprehensive tracking capabilities without sacrificing screen quality.

Garmin MARQ Athlete Gen 2

At the pinnacle of Garmin's luxury offerings, the MARQ Athlete Gen 2 represents the "budget" option within the premium MARQ lineup. This exclusive timepiece elevates the standard smartwatch experience through exceptional craftsmanship and premium materials.

MARQ Athlete Gen 2 key features

The MARQ Athlete Gen 2 features a vibrant 1.2-inch AMOLED touchscreen display with 390x390 pixel resolution. Built from Grade 5 titanium—which is 2.5x more scratch-resistant than standard titanium—the watch includes a ceramic inlay for additional durability. Remarkably, it introduces a new USB-C charging cable that fully charges the device in under an hour, compared to 2.5 hours for other Garmin watches. Beyond standard tracking, it offers the exclusive Jetlag Advisor feature, providing guidance for international travellers.

MARQ Athlete Gen 2 pros and cons

Pros:

• All-metal premium construction with sapphire crystal
• Ultra-fast charging capability
• Advanced metrics including HRV Status and Training Readiness
• Comprehensive training analysis

Cons:

• Extremely high price point
• Smaller screen than the Epix (1.2" vs 1.3")
• Limited exclusive features beyond Jetlag Advisor
• Reduced battery life with always-on display

MARQ Athlete Gen 2 battery life

Battery performance varies considerably by usage mode:

• Smartwatch mode: 16 days with gesture wake, 6 days always-on
• GPS-only mode: 42 hours with gesture, 30 hours always-on
• All satellite systems: 32 hours with gesture, 24 hours always-on
• Multi-band GPS: 28 hours with gesture, 22 hours always-on

MARQ Athlete Gen 2 is best for

Primarily suited for luxury watch enthusiasts seeking a premium training device with exceptional build quality. Henceforth, it appeals to frequent international travellers benefiting from the Jetlag Advisor feature. Currently, it represents Garmin's most refined offering for those valuing craftsmanship alongside comprehensive fitness capabilities.

Garmin Forerunner 55

As Garmin's entry-level running watch, the Forerunner 55 delivers core functionality without unnecessary complexity at an accessible price. This compact timepiece maintains a single 42mm size with a 26mm screen, making it suitable for various wrist sizes.

Forerunner 55 key features

The Forerunner 55 includes built-in GPS, optical heart rate monitoring, and 20 hours of GPS tracking per charge. Beyond basics, it offers specialised running features like track mode for perfect GPS lines, PacePro for dynamic course-based pacing, and daily suggested workouts based on your recovery. It supports multiple activity profiles including track running, treadmill, virtual running, pool swimming and HIIT.

Forerunner 55 pros and cons

Pros:

• Excellent battery efficiency
• Accurate GPS tracking
• Comprehensive training tools including adaptive Garmin Coach plans
• Lightweight design
• Predicted race times for 5K/10K/half/full marathons

Cons:

• Plastic case with less durable glass
• No touchscreen capability
• Basic smartwatch features (notifications only)
• No music storage or Garmin Pay
• Lacks advanced mapping capabilities

Forerunner 55 battery life

Impressively frugal, the watch delivers 20 hours in GPS mode and two weeks in smartwatch mode. Real-world testing showed even better performance, with a 3-hour run consuming merely 9% battery.

Forerunner 55 is best for

Perfectly suited for running beginners or anyone preferring straightforward stats without complexity. Additionally, it serves as an excellent upgrade from basic fitness trackers for those wanting dedicated running features.

→ Check out our collection of Garmin Forerunner 55 straps.

Conclusion

Finding the perfect Garmin watch ultimately comes down to understanding your specific needs, budget constraints, and activity preferences. Throughout this guide, we've examined 15 remarkable timepieces that showcase Garmin's commitment to innovation across various price points.

Battery life clearly stands as a significant differentiator between models. The Enduro 3 offers practically unlimited endurance with sufficient sunlight, whereas the Venu X1 prioritises a sleek design with its thinner profile at the expense of battery longevity.

Price consideration also plays a crucial role when selecting your ideal watch. Budget-friendly options like the Forerunner 55 and 165 deliver essential features, while premium offerings such as the Fenix 8 and MARQ Athlete Gen 2 provide unmatched build quality alongside comprehensive capabilities at substantially higher price points.

Display technology represents another key decision factor. AMOLED screens offer vibrant colours and exceptional clarity but consume more power, whereas traditional MIP displays excel in direct sunlight with significantly better battery performance.

Specialised activities might dictate your choice as well. Golfers will appreciate the Approach S62's course analytics, trail runners might gravitate toward the rugged Instinct 3 Solar, and style-conscious users could find the Lily 2 Active or Venu X1 more appealing for everyday wear.

Remember that the most expensive watch isn't necessarily the best choice for your needs. The Forerunner series, particularly the 570 and 970, delivers exceptional value for serious runners and triathletes without the premium materials that drive up costs on the Fenix and MARQ lines.

Undoubtedly, Garmin continues to dominate the sports watch market by offering specialised timepieces for virtually every activity and lifestyle. Whether you're tracking your first 5K or competing in ultra-endurance events, a suitable Garmin watch exists to support your journey with reliable tracking, comprehensive analytics, and increasing smartwatch functionality.