10 Best Garmin Watches 2025 in the United States

The Garmin fēnix 7 Pro Sapphire Solar is a robust multisport GPS smartwatch designed for serious athletes and outdoor enthusiasts. Its standout feature is the solar charging lens, which significantly extends battery life, allowing use for weeks in smartwatch mode without frequent charging. The 1.3-inch round display is clear and durable, protected by a scratch-resistant sapphire lens and housed in a strong fiber-reinforced polymer case with a titanium bezel, making it highly durable for tough conditions. GPS accuracy is enhanced by multi-band GPS with SatIQ technology, which also helps optimize battery life. This watch is water-resistant, making it safe for swimming or rainy conditions.

Heart rate monitoring and advanced health tracking, including Pulse Ox and sleep analysis, provide detailed insights into fitness and recovery, though the data should be viewed as close estimates rather than medical-grade. The built-in flashlight is a practical addition for nighttime activities. For activity tracking, it supports multiple sports and offers new features like hill and endurance scores to help monitor training progress effectively. Smart features include Bluetooth and Wi-Fi connectivity for syncing data and notifications, plus preloaded maps for golf and skiing, adding to its versatility.

The watch’s 32 MB memory and 30 mAh battery capacity are modest, which may limit storage and some usage times in extreme conditions despite solar charging. Additionally, the relatively high price point and complexity might exceed the needs of casual users. This makes the fēnix 7 Pro a powerful, feature-rich watch ideal for dedicated athletes and outdoor adventurers seeking reliable GPS, long battery life, and comprehensive health tracking.

The Garmin vívoactive 5 is a solid choice for those looking for a comprehensive health and fitness smartwatch. It features a vibrant AMOLED display, which makes it easy to read even in bright sunlight. The battery life is impressive, lasting up to 11 days in smartwatch mode, which means less frequent charging. Its GPS accuracy is reliable, making it great for outdoor activities like running and cycling. The heart rate monitoring is robust and provides valuable insights into your health, including advanced metrics like HRV status, stress tracking, and sleep scores. The watch is water-resistant, so it’s suitable for swimming and other water-based activities.

It also includes more than 30 sports apps and workout modes, catering to a wide range of fitness routines, including specialized features for wheelchair users. The vívoactive 5 is durable, with a solid build that can withstand the rigors of daily wear and various physical activities. The smartwatch also boasts smart features like music storage and playback, allowing you to enjoy your favorite playlists without needing your phone. However, its touch screen interface might take some time to get used to for those who are not tech-savvy. Additionally, while the 1.2-inch display is clear, it may feel small for users used to larger screens.

Despite these minor issues, the Garmin vívoactive 5 is a versatile and feature-rich smartwatch that will appeal to fitness enthusiasts looking for a reliable companion to track and enhance their health and wellness activities.

The Garmin fēnix 7X Pro Sapphire Solar is a multisport GPS smartwatch designed for serious athletes and outdoor enthusiasts. One of its standout features is its GPS accuracy, bolstered by advanced navigation sensors and multi-band GPS with SatIQ technology, making it reliable for tracking location even in challenging environments. The battery life is impressive, thanks to the Power Sapphire solar charging lens, which extends the battery life to weeks in smartwatch mode. This is particularly useful for long outdoor adventures where charging options might be limited.

Water resistance is solid, suitable for various water activities. Heart rate monitoring and activity tracking are extensive, with features like HRV status, Pulse Ox, and advanced sleep monitoring offering a comprehensive view of your health and fitness. However, it should be noted that these are estimates and not medical-grade measurements. The built-in flashlight is a unique addition, providing practical utility during night training or outdoor activities. Durability is ensured with a fiber-reinforced polymer case and titanium bezel, making the watch robust enough for rugged use.

The display quality is clear and readable, with a 1.4-inch touchscreen that supports easy navigation and data reading. Smart features include Bluetooth, Wi-Fi connectivity, and preloaded maps for golf courses and ski resorts, enhancing its utility for various sports and outdoor activities. On the downside, the watch's larger size may not be comfortable for everyone, particularly those with smaller wrists. Also, while it is packed with features, it comes at a higher price point, which might be a consideration for budget-conscious buyers. This watch is ideal for those who prioritize comprehensive fitness tracking, outdoor navigation, and long battery life, but it may not be the best fit for casual users or those looking for a more affordable option.