Which smartwatch truly goes the distance for your training?
If you’re a runner shopping for a smartwatch in 2025, the two names dominating the conversation are Apple Watch and Garmin Forerunner. But these brands cater to very different running styles and goals — and choosing the right one can directly impact how you train, track, and improve.
In this head-to-head, we compare the latest Apple Watch (Series 9 / Ultra 2) and Garmin Forerunner (265 / 965) on everything that matters to runners.
🏁 Quick Comparison Table
| Feature | Apple Watch Series 9 / Ultra 2 | Garmin Forerunner 265 / 965 |
|---|---|---|
| Target User | Fitness + lifestyle | Dedicated runners, pros |
| Battery Life | 18–36 hours | 13–23 days |
| GPS Accuracy | Excellent (dual-band on Ultra) | Elite-grade (multi-band) |
| Heart Rate Tracking | ✅ Good | ✅ Excellent (ELEVATE v5) |
| Running Power | ✅ (with iPhone/3rd party) | ✅ Native on watch |
| Music Storage | ✅ | ✅ |
| App Ecosystem | Massive (App Store) | Running-specific focus |
| Wearability | Stylish, versatile | Lightweight, sport-focused |
| Price (USD) | $399–$799+ | $449–$599 |
🎽 1. Performance & GPS Accuracy
- Garmin Forerunner models are built with multi-band GNSS and better antenna positioning, ideal for trail running, urban canyons, or races.
- Apple Watch Ultra 2 offers dual-frequency GPS and performs well even in complex terrain — a massive upgrade over older models.
📌 Verdict: Garmin has the edge in consistent accuracy and elevation data.
🔋 2. Battery Life
- Apple Watch Series 9: ~18 hours typical, ~36 in low-power mode
- Apple Watch Ultra 2: up to 72 hours (with compromises)
- Garmin Forerunner 965: ~23 days smartwatch / ~31 hours GPS
- Garmin Forerunner 265: ~13 days smartwatch / ~20 hours GPS
📌 Verdict: If you run long distances, forget the charger stress with Garmin.
🧠 3. Training & Recovery Features
Garmin offers advanced metrics like:
- VO₂ Max
- HRV Status
- Training Load & Readiness
- Native Running Power
- Recovery Advisor
- Sleep scoring and suggested workouts
Apple offers:
- VO₂ Max (estimated)
- Heart rate zones
- Native sleep stages
- 3rd-party apps for deep metrics (e.g. TrainingPeaks, Athlytic)
📌 Verdict: Garmin Forerunner is built for serious training.
🕹️ 4. Smart Features & Apps
Apple Watch wins hands down:
- Full App Store
- Call/text reply, Siri, Apple Pay
- Fitness+, Podcasts, Strava, NRC, Komoot
- Tight integration with iPhone
Garmin is more limited:
- Basic notifications
- Spotify/Amazon Music offline
- Garmin Pay
- Fewer third-party apps
📌 Verdict: Apple Watch is a smarter everyday device.
💪 5. Comfort & Design
- Garmin Forerunner: lightweight, plastic build, comfortable for all-day wear
- Apple Watch Ultra 2: rugged titanium, larger screen, bulkier but premium
- Apple Watch Series 9: slim, stylish, highly customizable
📌 Verdict: Garmin wins for sport comfort, Apple wins for lifestyle versatility.
🧭 Use Case Guide
| Runner Type | Best Pick |
|---|---|
| Beginner/fitness-focused | Apple Watch Series 9 |
| Trail runners | Garmin Forerunner 965 |
| Marathon trainers | Garmin Forerunner 265/965 |
| Lifestyle + occasional runs | Apple Watch Ultra 2 |
| Triathletes | Garmin (multisport modes + metrics) |
🛒 Pricing Summary (as of 2025)
- Apple Watch Series 9: $399+
- Apple Watch Ultra 2: $799
- Garmin Forerunner 265: ~$449
- Garmin Forerunner 965: ~$599
🔗 Buy from: Apple.com, Garmin.com, Amazon
Conclusion
If you want a true running tool with elite tracking and coaching features, the Garmin Forerunner is unmatched. If you want a do-it-all smartwatch with great fitness support, Apple Watch (especially Ultra 2) is hard to beat.
The right choice depends on how seriously you take your running—and how much you rely on your watch outside of it.