Garmin vs Apple Watch – Check Which One Is Best & Why?

Apple Watch 10 & Garmin Forerunner 265 share many similarities, but there are also important differences, such as quality, performance, features, design, and connectivity. If you want the best one between them, I Would recommend the Apple Watch 10 rather than the Garmin Forerunner 265. 

Why Do I Recommend The Apple Watch 10

  • The Apple Watch 10 features a vibrant OLED Retina display that offers sharper visuals, richer colors, and improved brightness, providing a superior viewing experience compared to the Garmin Forerunner 265’s AMOLED screen.
  • The Apple Watch 10 supports ECG functionality, allowing users to perform electrocardiogram readings for heart health monitoring, a feature not available on the Garmin Forerunner 265.
  • The Apple Watch 10 offers LTE connectivity, enabling users to make calls, send messages, and access apps without a smartphone, unlike the Garmin Forerunner 265 which lacks cellular capabilities.
  • The Apple Watch 10 features seamless integration with the Apple ecosystem, offering access to Siri, Apple Pay, and the App Store, providing a richer and more versatile smartwatch experience than the Garmin Forerunner 265.
  • The Apple Watch 10 includes comprehensive workout detection that automatically tracks various exercise types, ensuring accurate fitness data without manual input, while the Garmin Forerunner 265 requires manual activation for most workout types.
  • The Apple Watch 10’s fast-charging technology allows for quicker power replenishment, ensuring minimal downtime compared to the Garmin Forerunner 265’s slower charging method.
  • The Apple Watch 10 offers advanced health tracking features, including skin temperature monitoring and improved menstrual cycle tracking, providing deeper wellness insights compared to the Garmin Forerunner 265.
  • The Apple Watch 10 provides enhanced app compatibility through the Apple App Store, allowing users to access a broader range of lifestyle, fitness, and productivity apps compared to the Garmin Forerunner 265’s limited app support.

Maybe the Garmin Forerunner 265 price can make you comfortable because it’s a little bit cheaper than the Apple Watch 10. But you have to compromise all the above-mentioned features. Now the Decision is Yours. I hope it was helpful to choose the right one.

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Side By Side Comparison

FeatureApple Watch 10Garmin Forerunner 265
Display TypeOLED Retina DisplayAMOLED Touchscreen Display
Screen SizeLikely 1.9-inch or larger1.3-inch (Forerunner 265) / 1.1-inch (Forerunner 265S)
Build MaterialAluminum, Stainless Steel optionsReinforced polymer material
Water ResistanceWR505 ATM
DurabilityEnhanced glass for scratch resistanceGorilla Glass or Power Glass
Battery Life (Standard)Up to 18 hoursUp to 13 days in smartwatch mode
Battery Life (GPS Mode)Up to 7 hours in workout tracking modeUp to 20 hours with GPS tracking
Charging MethodFast charging via Apple magnetic chargerStandard Garmin USB charging cable
Heart Rate TrackingAdvanced heart rate sensorAccurate heart rate tracking with continuous monitoring
ECG SupportYesNo
Sleep TrackingComprehensive insights with Apple HealthDetailed sleep analysis with recovery metrics
Workout DetectionAutomatic workout detection for common exercisesExtensive workout detection for running, cycling, and more
VO2 Max TrackingYesYes
Recovery InsightsLimitedDetailed recovery guidance
Body Battery™ ScoreNoYes
Training Load AnalysisNoYes
Skin Temperature TrackingExpected featureNo
GPS TechnologyDual-frequency GPS for precise trackingMulti-band GPS for high accuracy in challenging environments
Mapping & NavigationApple Maps integrationBuilt-in mapping with turn-by-turn navigation
Smart FeaturesApp Store, Siri, LTE support, messagingLimited smart features, no LTE support
Music StorageOn-device storage with Apple Music integrationSpotify, Deezer, and Amazon Music integration
Payment SupportApple PayGarmin Pay
Phone ConnectivityLTE supportNo LTE support
Operating SystemwatchOSGarmin OS with improved interface
Android CompatibilityNoYes
WeightHeavier due to premium buildLighter for sports-focused comfort
PriceCheck Apple Watch 10 PriceCheck Garmin 265 Price

What Common Both Can Do?

  • Heart Rate Monitoring: Both models offer continuous heart rate tracking with detailed insights for resting, workout, and recovery periods.
  • Blood Oxygen (SpO2) Sensor: Each device includes SpO2 measurement to assess oxygen saturation levels, useful for sleep tracking, fitness, and overall health monitoring.
  • Sleep Tracking: Both devices deliver detailed sleep insights, including light, deep, and REM phases, helping users understand their sleep quality.
  • Stress Monitoring: Each device includes stress tracking features that suggest breathing exercises or mindfulness sessions to manage stress effectively.
  • GPS Tracking: Both models utilize advanced GPS systems for precise location tracking during outdoor activities like running, hiking, or cycling.
  • Water Resistance: With WR50 (Apple Watch 10) and 5 ATM (Garmin Forerunner 265), both models are suitable for swimming and water-based workouts.
  • Fitness Tracking & Workout Modes: Both devices support a wide range of workout modes, from running to yoga, and provide real-time performance feedback.
  • Music Support: Both support on-device music storage and music control, with Apple Music on the Apple Watch 10 and Spotify/Deezer support on the Forerunner 265.
  • Customizable Watch Faces: Each device allows users to personalize their watch face with custom layouts, themes, and widgets.
  • Recovery Guidance: Both models offer insights on recovery time, helping users optimize their fitness routines and avoid overtraining.
  • Women’s Health Tracking: Each model supports menstrual cycle tracking and other related features for comprehensive wellness monitoring.

Common Features

FeatureApple Watch 10Garmin Forerunner 265
Heart Rate MonitoringYesYes
Blood Oxygen (SpO2) SensorYesYes
Sleep TrackingYesYes
Stress MonitoringYesYes
Fitness TrackingYesYes
GPS TrackingYesYes
Water ResistanceYesYes
Bluetooth ConnectivityYesYes
Smart NotificationsYesYes
Music StorageYesYes
On-screen WorkoutsYesYes
Customizable Watch FacesYesYes
Fitness Goal TrackingYesYes
VO2 Max TrackingYesYes
Recovery GuidanceYesYes
Women’s Health TrackingYesYes
Breathing ExercisesYesYes
Smart Alarm (Sleep Focused)YesYes
Workout Auto-detectionYesYes
Calorie TrackingYesYes
Smartphone CompatibilityYesYes
Multiple Sport ModesYesYes
Durability for Outdoor UseYesYes
Music ControlsYesYes
Price Check Apple Watch 10 Price Check Garmin 265 Price

FAQ

Does the Apple Watch 10 support Android devices like the Garmin Forerunner 265?
No, the Apple Watch 10 is designed exclusively for iOS devices, whereas the Garmin Forerunner 265 is compatible with both iOS and Android smartphones.

Which device has better battery life, the Apple Watch 10 or Garmin Forerunner 265?
The Garmin Forerunner 265 offers significantly better battery life, lasting up to 13 days in smartwatch mode and 20 hours in GPS mode, while the Apple Watch 10 provides up to 18 hours of battery life on a full charge.

Is the Garmin Forerunner 265 capable of making phone calls like the Apple Watch 10?
No, the Garmin Forerunner 265 does not support LTE or cellular connectivity. The Apple Watch 10 offers LTE models, allowing users to make calls directly from the watch.

Which smartwatch has better fitness tracking features?
Both offer comprehensive fitness tracking, but the Garmin Forerunner 265 is more advanced in performance metrics, recovery insights, and workout planning for athletes. The Apple Watch 10 focuses on casual fitness and overall health tracking.

Can both devices track sleep patterns?
Yes, both the Apple Watch 10 and Garmin Forerunner 265 provide detailed sleep tracking, including insights on sleep stages, recovery, and rest quality.

Do both devices offer SpO2 (blood oxygen) tracking?
Yes, both the Apple Watch 10 and Garmin Forerunner 265 feature blood oxygen sensors for monitoring oxygen saturation levels.

Which device is better for outdoor activities like hiking or trail running?
The Garmin Forerunner 265 is better suited for outdoor activities due to its multi-band GPS, longer battery life, and rugged build designed for tough conditions.

Can I use contactless payments on both devices?
Yes, both devices offer contactless payment options. The Apple Watch 10 supports Apple Pay, while the Garmin Forerunner 265 offers Garmin Pay (with limited bank support).

Which smartwatch offers better music playback options?
The Apple Watch 10 integrates directly with Apple Music for streaming and on-device storage. The Garmin Forerunner 265 supports Spotify, Deezer, and Amazon Music, but users must download tracks to the watch.

Is the Apple Watch 10 better for smartwatch features than the Garmin Forerunner 265?
Yes, the Apple Watch 10 offers a superior smartwatch experience with features like Siri, the App Store, Apple Pay, and LTE connectivity. The Garmin Forerunner 265 is more focused on fitness and lacks extensive app support.

Can I use third-party apps on both devices?
The Apple Watch 10 supports a wide range of third-party apps via the App Store. The Garmin Forerunner 265 has limited app compatibility focused primarily on fitness and outdoor activities.

Do both devices have customizable watch faces?
Yes, both the Apple Watch 10 and Garmin Forerunner 265 offer customizable watch faces, allowing users to personalize their device with various styles and widgets.

Which device is better for stress management and mindfulness?
Both offer stress management features, but the Garmin Forerunner 265 includes the Body Battery™ feature, which provides insights into energy levels, making it more detailed in terms of stress and recovery insights.

Which device is better for casual users versus serious athletes?
The Apple Watch 10 is ideal for casual users seeking smart features, fitness tracking, and iOS integration. The Garmin Forerunner 265 is better suited for serious athletes who prioritize performance tracking, training insights, and long battery life.

 

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