If you’re into jogging, training for a triathlon, or just trying to be more active, a Garmin smartwatch can be a really handy companion. There’s a wide range to choose from, with everything from beginner-friendly trackers to tough, outdoor-ready models available - and this guide rounds up some of the best you can buy right now.

We’ve broken down what each smartwatch is best at. Whether that’s running, multi-sport tracking or everyday use. Then we’ve highlighted the stuff that really counts: battery life, accuracy, and features that help you hit your goals.

Best Garmin watches for runners

The reason why Garmin watches have such a great rep with runners is simple - they’re designed with running in mind. They can handle all kinds of weather, the battery lasts for days, and the layout’s simple enough to figure out without much fuss.

You can also get some useful training tips from your Garmin watch. Features like suggested workouts and tracking your pace or progress can be helpful no matter what level you’re at.

Garmin Forerunner 255 – for all kinds of running

The Forerunner 255 is a good all-rounder, and perfect if you want your training to be a bit more organised. It offers multi-sport tracking, wellness features like stress tracking, and advanced training tools including a race predictor. Whether you’re running a couch-to-10K or training for your next PB, this one covers a lot of ground – literally.

Garmin Forerunner 55 – the ideal entry-level choice

This is a decent option if you’re new to running or just want the essentials. The Forerunner 55 tracks your pace, distance, heart rate, and suggests workouts based on your fitness level. It even estimates your race finish time for 5K, 10K, or half-marathon distances.

The best budget-friendly Garmin watch

If you're after a reliable watch without spending too much, the Forerunner 55 (which we’ve already mentioned above) is great for casual users or beginners. It gives you the proper Garmin experience (solid GPS, heart rate, training guidance) at a lower price point. It’s also a doddle to set-up and use straight out of the box.

Best Garmin watches for multi-sport tracking

What if your workouts cover more than just running? Whether you’re into swimming, cycling, hiking, or a mix of everything - it helps to have a watch that can handle the lot. The things to look out for are easy activity switching, accurate GPS, decent battery life, heart rate tracking and recovery insights. Some Garmin smartwatches also throw in extras like maps or solar charging, which can come in handy depending on where and how you train. Here are a couple of Garmin watches we think are great for multi-sport routines:

Garmin Fenix 8 – for the seriously sporty

The Fenix 8 is a good choice if you’re serious about training, and know you’ll be spending long hours outdoors. It’s built to handle all kinds of activities and terrain, with detailed tracking, built-in maps, music storage, and multi-band GPS for better accuracy. This last feature is especially useful if you’re going to out on mountain hikes or deep in the woods.

It’s also got serious battery life (up to 36 hours in GPS mode) and a tough design that’s made for endurance. It may not be the cheapest option, but worth it if you’re after something that can keep up with your packed training schedule.

Garmin Instinct 3 – a tough watch for rugged environments

The Instinct 3 is built tough. It meets military-grade durability standards, so it can take on heat, water, shock - you name it. There’s a solar model too, which is great if you’re spending lots of time off-grid.

It comes with handy tools like a compass, barometer, and altimeter. So it’s especially useful for hikers, trail runners, or anyone heading into the wild. It doesn’t have all the high-end features of the Fenix, but it’s reliable, rugged, and gets the job done.

Best Garmin watches for everyday fitness

If you’re trying to be a bit more active, sleep better, or just feel a little healthier day to day, having a Garmin on your wrist can really help. They’re full of features that can help your everyday fitness. Whether you’re working out, winding down, or just trying to move more.

Garmin Vivoactive 5 – a great all-rounder

The Vivoactive 5 is a right little do-it-all. It’s got a bright, colourful screen, lets you tap to pay, play music, and see notifications from your phone. It tracks the key stuff like heart rate, sleep, stress, and even has guided workouts you can follow on the screen. When you’re heading to the gym or just walking to the shop, it fits right in without looking too sporty or flashy.

Garmin Vivomove Sport – best for wellness

If you like the idea of tracking your health but don’t love the look of most fitness watches, the Vivomove Sport is a nice middle ground. It looks like a classic watch, but there’s a hidden touchscreen that shows things like your heart rate, sleep, stress, and hydration when you need it. It’s a great option if you’re more focused on general wellbeing than intense training, and you want a watch that doesn’t necessarily look like a fitness watch.

Garmin Watch comparison chart

Need any help?

Need more advice on choosing the best piece of fitness tech? Here’s everything you need to know about smartwatches. Or why not pop in-store and ask one of our colleagues for help? They’re always happy to chat, and they know their Garmins inside and out.