Garmin vs Apple Watch: What is the Difference

When it comes to fitness trackers, two of the most popular options on the market are the Garmin and the Apple Watch.

Both are well-known and respected brands, but they have distinct features and target audiences.

In this article, we will be comparing the two devices, discussing their design and build, fitness tracking and features, smartwatch features, battery life, and price.

By the end of this article, you will have a better understanding of the main differences between the Garmin and the Apple Watch, and be able to make an informed decision on which device is best for you.


The Garmin and the Apple Watch are both highly sought-after fitness trackers, but they have different features and target audiences.

While the Apple Watch is more geared towards those who want a device that can do it all, such as receiving texts, making calls, and controlling their smart home, the Garmin is more focused on fitness tracking and outdoor activities.

Design and Build

When it comes to design and build, both the Garmin and the Apple Watch have a lot to offer.

The Apple Watch is made of stainless steel and comes in a variety of finishes, such as silver, space gray, and gold.

It has a larger screen than the Garmin and is available in a variety of sizes, making it a good option for those with larger wrists.

The Garmin, on the other hand, is made of plastic and has a more sporty look. It’s available in a variety of colors, such as black, white, and blue.

Both devices are water-resistant, but the Apple Watch has a higher water resistance rating, making it suitable for swimming and other water activities.

Fitness Tracking and Features

When it comes to fitness tracking and features, both the Garmin and the Apple Watch have a lot to offer.

Both devices have heart rate monitoring, GPS, and workout tracking capabilities.

The Apple Watch also has an ECG feature and fall detection, which makes it a great option for older adults or those with medical conditions.

The Garmin, on the other hand, has a feature called “Body Battery” which tracks your energy levels throughout the day and provides suggestions on when to rest and when to push yourself.

Both devices also offer a wide variety of workout tracking options, including running, cycling, swimming, and strength training.

The Apple Watch also has a feature called “Activity Rings,” which encourages users to close their rings by moving, exercising, and standing throughout the day.

The Garmin, on the other hand, has a feature called “Training Status,” which analyzes your activity and gives you feedback on your training.

When it comes to accuracy, both devices are highly accurate.

However, some users have reported that the Apple Watch’s heart rate monitoring can be a bit off during high-intensity workouts.

The Garmin, on the other hand, is known for its accuracy when tracking outdoor activities such as hiking and cycling.

Smartwatch Features

When it comes to smartwatch features, both the Garmin and the Apple Watch have a lot to offer.

Both devices can receive notifications, control music, and make mobile payments.

The Apple Watch also has integration with the iPhone’s Siri and can be used to control your smart home.

The Garmin, on the other hand, has the ability to receive texts and calls, making it a great option for those who want to stay connected while on the go.

The Apple Watch also has a feature called “Always-On Retina Display,” which allows you to see your notifications and other information at a glance.

The Garmin, on the other hand, has a feature called “Quick Replies,” which allows you to send pre-written responses to texts and calls.

Both devices also have a variety of apps and watch faces available for download, allowing you to customize the device to your liking.

Battery Life and Price

Battery life is an important consideration when choosing a fitness tracker, and both the Garmin and the Apple Watch have decent battery life.

The Apple Watch can last up to 18 hours with regular use, while the Garmin can last up to 7 days.

However, it should be noted that the battery life of both devices will depend on how often you use the fitness tracking and smartwatch features.

When it comes to price, the Apple Watch is generally more expensive than the Garmin.

The base model of the Apple Watch starts at around $399, while the base model of the Garmin starts at around $199.

It’s also worth noting that additional costs, such as purchasing additional bands or watch faces, will vary between the two devices.


Conclusion

In conclusion, the Garmin and the Apple Watch are both highly capable fitness trackers, but they have distinct features and target audiences.

The Apple Watch is more geared towards those who want a device that can do it all, while the Garmin is more focused on fitness tracking and outdoor activities.

Both devices have their own unique features, such as the Apple Watch’s ECG and fall detection, and the Garmin’s “Body Battery” and “Training Status.”

Ultimately, the decision between the two devices will depend on your own needs and preferences.

We hope that this post has helped you understand the main differences between the two devices, and you will be able to make an informed decision on which device is best for you.