Garmin smartwatches

Which Garmin series fits you

Garmin watches come in series, and the series tells you more than the model number. On our shelf: fenix, Instinct, Forerunner, Venu and Vivoactive.

• fenix. The flagship: titanium or steel case, sapphire glass, maps and the longest battery. The widest choice sits here.
• Instinct. A tough polymer case and a simpler screen — built for knocks and cold rather than for looks.
• Forerunner. The running watch: light, quick GPS lock, training numbers on the first screen.
• Venu and Vivoactive. Everyday smartwatches with an AMOLED screen — health data and notifications without a heavy case.

What to check before buying

• Case diameter. From 41 mm up to 51 mm, with 47 mm the most common. On a slim wrist a 51 mm case overhangs.
• Water rating. The shelf splits almost evenly: 5 ATM handles showers and rain, 10 ATM also covers swimming.
• Battery. Ten to thirty days in smartwatch mode — this is where Garmin differs most from other makers.
• Screen. Nearly all are AMOLED; a few models use a reflective display that reads better in bright sun.

Bands and glass separately

Garmin QuickFit bands swap without tools and live under watch straps. Screen protectors and chargers are under smartwatch accessories. The full range is on the smartwatches page, and a lighter option is a fitness band.

Frequently asked questions

Does a Garmin watch work with an iPhone? Yes, Garmin Connect is available for both iOS and Android and the watch pairs with either.

How does fenix differ from Instinct? fenix is the flagship with a metal case, sapphire glass and maps; Instinct is a rugged polymer watch with a simpler screen.

Can I swim with it? For swimming choose a 10 ATM model; 5 ATM covers showers and rain but not regular swimming.

Will a band from another Garmin fit? It will if the width matches — QuickFit comes in 20, 22 and 26 mm, and one width serves several models.