10 Best Garmin Smartwatches 2025 in the United States

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 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 Enduro 3 is an impressive smartwatch designed specifically for ultra-endurance athletes, blending durability with advanced features. One of its standout strengths is battery life, offering up to 90 days in smartwatch mode and an astonishing 320 hours with GPS, making it ideal for long-distance activities without constant recharging. The solar charging capability enhances this feature even further, allowing for extended use in outdoor conditions.

GPS accuracy is another strong point, with built-in mapping and dynamic routing features that provide reliable navigation for running, biking, or hiking. The preloaded TopoActive maps are a valuable asset for outdoor enthusiasts, ensuring they stay on track during their adventures.

Health monitoring features are robust, with targeted training plans and real-time stamina tracking, catering to the specific needs of ultrarunners and cyclists. The lightweight design, combined with a comfortable nylon strap, allows for all-day wear even in challenging conditions. However, there are a few areas where the Enduro 3 might not meet everyone's needs. While it packs a lot of functionality, users looking for more traditional smartwatch features, like extensive app support or a wide variety of smart notifications, may find it lacking compared to other smartwatches on the market. Additionally, the size (51 mm) may not be suitable for those with smaller wrists or who prefer a more discreet watch. Display quality is good, though some users might prefer higher resolution screens found in other smartwatches. Durability and water resistance are strong points, yet users should be cautious with the price tag, which can be quite high for those who may not fully utilize all the advanced features. The Garmin Enduro 3 excels in endurance and outdoor functionality, making it a great choice for serious athletes, but may not be the best fit for casual users seeking a more versatile smartwatch experience.