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 tactix® 8 is a premium tactical GPS smartwatch designed for outdoor enthusiasts, athletes, and professionals who need advanced navigation and durability. Its 1.4-inch solar-charged display helps extend battery life by using sunlight, which is great for long trips away from charging sources. The watch's GPS is highly accurate, using multi-band SatIQ technology and sensors like a compass and barometric altimeter to provide precise positioning even in challenging conditions.

Health monitoring is comprehensive, offering wrist-based heart rate, sleep tracking, respiration, Pulse Ox, and even an ECG app for heart rhythm checks—though it’s important to note these features provide estimates, not medical-grade data. For activity tracking, it supports a broad range of sports and tactical functions, including jumpmaster mode, waypoint projection, and rucking, plus detailed strength training and stamina tracking to boost performance. Durability is strong with a titanium bezel, sapphire lens that resists scratches, and a 40-meter dive rating suitable for swimming and diving.

Connectivity options include Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, and USB, allowing syncing with smartphones and apps like the Applied Ballistics Quantum for managing targets and profiles. The display quality is bright and clear outdoors, which is essential for tactical uses. The device comes with a relatively high price and a somewhat bulky 51mm size, which might feel large on smaller wrists. Additionally, some advanced features may require smartphone integration to unlock their full potential. For those seeking a tough, feature-packed smartwatch excelling in navigation and tactical scenarios while also covering fitness and health, the Garmin tactix® 8 is a solid choice.

The Garmin fēnix 8 is a high-end multisport GPS smartwatch designed for athletes and outdoor enthusiasts seeking reliable performance and durability. It features a bright and sharp 1.4-inch AMOLED display protected by a scratch-resistant sapphire lens, making it easy to read in various conditions. The titanium bezel enhances its ruggedness, and a unique built-in LED flashlight adds functionality for night activities. Battery life is impressive, offering up to 29 days in regular smartwatch mode and 84 hours with GPS active, reducing the need for frequent charging during extended adventures.

The GPS functionality is highly accurate, utilizing multi-band GPS and SatIQ technology to provide precise navigation even in challenging environments. Health and activity tracking cover a wide range of metrics including heart rate, sleep, respiration, Pulse Ox, and ECG for heart rhythm monitoring. While these features offer valuable insights, the watch is not a medical device. It supports targeted training plans and monitors readiness based on recovery and sleep quality, helping users train more effectively. Connectivity options include Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, and built-in speaker and microphone for calls and voice commands, with offline commands available to control the watch without a nearby phone.

The watch is dive-rated to 40 meters and sealed with metal buttons, making it suitable for scuba and apnea diving enthusiasts. However, its premium price and relatively heavy weight of 102 grams may feel bulky for some users. Additionally, some advanced health features like Pulse Ox and ECG may not be available everywhere. This smartwatch is well-suited for serious athletes and outdoor adventurers who want a durable, feature-rich device with excellent battery life and accurate GPS, although it might exceed the needs of casual users.