10 Best Garmin Smartwatch 2026 in the United States

The Garmin fēnix 7S Pro Sapphire Solar is a strong choice for anyone looking for a rugged multisport GPS smartwatch. Its standout feature is the solar charging lens, which extends battery life significantly by using sunlight, letting you go for weeks between charges in smartwatch mode—great if you spend a lot of time outdoors. The built-in GPS uses advanced multi-band SatIQ technology, which improves positioning accuracy while conserving battery, so you can trust it during runs, hikes, or other activities. This watch provides extensive health monitoring, including heart rate variability, Pulse Ox for oxygen levels, and advanced sleep tracking, giving a well-rounded view of your wellness and recovery.

Activity tracking is thorough with new fitness features like hill and endurance scores to help you gauge your training progress. The 1.2-inch round display offers clear visuals and is protected by a tough Power Sapphire lens, making it durable against scratches. The case material and bezel options enhance its strength without making it bulky; at 58 grams, it’s comfortable to wear. Connectivity includes Bluetooth, USB, and Wi-Fi, allowing easy syncing and updates. An added practical touch is the built-in LED flashlight, useful for nighttime workouts or low-light conditions.

On the downside, the screen resolution (480 x 272) isn't the sharpest compared to some competitors, and while the smartwatch OS is effective, it might feel less intuitive for those used to more mainstream platforms. Also, some health features like Pulse Ox may not be available everywhere. This watch is well suited for active individuals who want a durable, feature-packed device that excels in battery life and GPS accuracy, especially outdoors, but it might be more than casual users need.

The Garmin fēnix 8 stands out as a premium multisport GPS smartwatch designed for athletes and outdoor adventurers. Its bright 1.4-inch AMOLED screen with a sapphire lens offers excellent display quality that’s both vibrant and durable, well-suited for varied lighting conditions. The titanium bezel adds to its robustness, complemented by a 40-meter dive rating and leakproof metal buttons, making it a reliable companion for water sports and rugged environments. When it comes to battery life, this watch impresses with up to 16 days in regular smartwatch mode and around 47 hours using GPS continuously, which is great for long trips without frequent charging. The GPS system is enhanced with multi-band SatIQ technology and onboard sensors like compass and barometer, providing precise navigation and tracking for outdoor activities.

Health monitoring is comprehensive, including wrist-based heart rate, sleep analysis, respiration tracking, and Pulse Ox for blood oxygen levels. Advanced features like an ECG app help track heart rhythm, though some metrics are approximations rather than medical-grade readings. Activity tracking covers many sports with tailored workouts and real-time stamina feedback, helping users train smartly and avoid injury. Connectivity options include Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, and USB, enabling calls, notifications, and voice assistant use directly from the wrist, even offline commands for certain controls.

The watch is packed with features and built to last but may feel a bit bulky for casual users or those seeking a simpler smartwatch. It is best suited for serious athletes and outdoor enthusiasts who want a rugged, feature-rich smartwatch with excellent battery life and accurate GPS, while it might be more than needed for everyday casual use.

The Garmin Venu 3S smartwatch is a well-rounded device with several strengths. It's designed with a bright 1.2-inch AMOLED touchscreen display, making it visually appealing and easy to navigate. One of its standout features is the impressive battery life, lasting up to 10 days in smartwatch mode, which is great for those who prefer less frequent charging. The built-in GPS and over 30 sports apps, including walking, running, cycling, and swimming, make it a solid choice for fitness enthusiasts.

It also offers extensive health tracking features such as Body Battery energy monitoring, sleep score, and personalized sleep coaching, which can help users better understand and manage their health. The ability to make and take phone calls directly from the watch and use a voice assistant adds to its convenience. Additionally, it's quite durable with a stainless steel bezel and water resistance, making it suitable for various activities and environments.

However, there are a few drawbacks. The screen size, at 1.2 inches, might be considered small by some users, and the oval shape may not appeal to everyone. The Garmin Venu 3S also operates on an Android OS, which might limit functionality for iPhone users. Despite these minor issues, the Garmin Venu 3S offers a comprehensive set of features that cater to both everyday use and fitness needs, making it a versatile choice for most users.