10 Best Garmin Smartwatches 2025 in the United States

The Garmin Forerunner 55 is a GPS running watch that excels in various areas, making it a strong choice for fitness enthusiasts. Its battery life is impressive, offering up to 2 weeks in smartwatch mode and up to 20 hours in GPS mode, which is ideal for long-term use without frequent charging. The GPS accuracy is reliable, essential for tracking running distances and routes accurately. It includes various health monitoring features like heart rate tracking, activity profiles, and advanced wellness metrics such as intensity minutes and all-day respiration, providing comprehensive fitness insights.

The watch also supports a range of activities beyond running, including cycling, swimming, and Pilates, making it versatile for different workouts. Durability and water resistance are notable, ensuring it can withstand different environments and activities. Smart features like Bluetooth connectivity, customizable watch faces, and access to the Connect IQ Store add convenience and personalization options. The 1.04-inch display is clear but might be small for some users, and the resolution is lower compared to higher-end models.

The design is lightweight and comfortable, suitable for prolonged wear. However, the watch operates with buttons rather than a touch screen, which might be less intuitive for some users. Lastly, while the PacePro feature is helpful for race day strategy, it does not support on-device courses, which could be a limitation for those looking for more advanced navigation features. The Forerunner 55 is a solid option for runners and fitness enthusiasts seeking an easy-to-use, reliable, and feature-rich smartwatch.

The Garmin vívoactive 5 is a versatile health and fitness GPS smartwatch designed for an active lifestyle. It features a bright and colorful 1.2-inch AMOLED display that offers clear visibility. One of its standout strengths is the impressive battery life, lasting up to 11 days in smartwatch mode, which is great for users who prefer not to charge frequently. The built-in GPS provides accurate tracking for outdoor activities, and with over 30 sports apps, users can engage in activities ranging from running to swimming and even golf.

For health monitoring, the vívoactive 5 excels with features like Body Battery energy monitoring, sleep tracking with coaching, heart rate monitoring, and stress tracking. This comprehensive suite helps users gain detailed insights into their health and wellness. Durability and water resistance are also robust, making it suitable for various environments and conditions, including swimming.

The smart features such as music storage and playback, compatibility with both Android and iOS, and Bluetooth and Wi-Fi connectivity enhance its functionality, making it a well-rounded smartwatch. Comfort-wise, the watch is lightweight at just 1.3 ounces and has a round design that fits well on most wrists. However, there are a few drawbacks to consider. The memory storage capacity of 4 GB might be limiting for users who store a lot of music or apps. Additionally, the advanced health metrics are approximations, which may not be precise for all users. Despite these minor drawbacks, the Garmin vívoactive 5 remains a strong contender for those seeking a durable, feature-rich smartwatch for both fitness and everyday use.

The Garmin 010-02626-10 Instinct 2 is a rugged outdoor smartwatch designed to perform well under various environmental conditions. It's built with a fiber-reinforced polymer case, making it both thermal- and shock-resistant, and it can withstand water depths of up to 100 meters. The scratch-resistant Corning Gorilla glass further adds to its durability. This watch is perfect for adventurers and outdoor enthusiasts who need a reliable device in tough conditions.

The battery is impressive, offering up to 28 days in smartwatch mode and up to 30 hours in GPS mode, so you won't need to recharge frequently during long trips. The GPS accuracy is enhanced with support for multiple satellite systems, including GPS, GLONASS, and Galileo, ensuring precise tracking. The Tracback routing feature also helps you find your way back if you get lost during your adventures. For health monitoring, the Instinct 2 tracks heart rate, sleep, Pulse Ox, and respiration, giving you a comprehensive overview of your physical condition.

The smartwatch includes built-in sports apps for a variety of activities like running, biking, swimming, and strength training. Smart features include smart notifications and Connect IQ compatibility, allowing you to receive alerts and customize your watch when paired with your smartphone. The display size is 1.12 inches, which may seem small compared to other smartwatches, but it is sufficient for viewing essential information. The button-based interface is straightforward, although it might take some time to get used to if you prefer touchscreens. Weighing just 1.83 ounces and measuring 1.77 x 1.77 x 0.57 inches, the watch is relatively lightweight and comfortable to wear. The Garmin Instinct 2 is an excellent choice for those needing a robust and reliable outdoor smartwatch with extensive health monitoring and smart features.