The best Garmin watches of 2026: Expert tested and reviewed
I tested the best Garmin watches to help you decide which smartwatch is the right option for you as we enter marathon season.
Garmin is a well-known brand among outdoor enthusiasts, catering to multi-sport athletes, adventurers, and weekend warriors. Depending on one's preferred activities, Garmin offers a range of sports watches from the Forerunner 970 for running, the Garmin Instinct 3 for hiking, to the Approach S70 for golf. Prices for these watches vary from $200 to $2,000.
Garmin's smartwatches are noted for their precise location accuracy, established ecosystem, and long battery life. They provide health and fitness tracker data to smartphone users, with optional Connect Plus subscriptions for advanced insights and guidance on health and fitness data.
Upon testing numerous Garmin watches, my current favorite is the Fenix 8 LTE with InReach satellite connectivity. This watch combines the features of the Fenix 8 with added connectivity, making it essential for outdoor activities like camping and trail running outside of cellular coverage areas. Its SOS feature can be crucial in emergencies. For those preferring a slimmer watch for local activities, the Venu X1 is a great choice with its slim design, performance, and comfort.
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