Two of the most popular watches for active people. Apple is a smartwatch with eSIM, Garmin is a sports watch that lasts weeks.
Short answer
Apple Watch Ultra 3 - eSIM and 5G RedCap, apps, dual-frequency GPS, cheaper. Garmin fenix 8 - up to 16 days, works with iPhone and Android.
Key differences
| Spec | Apple Watch Ultra 3 49mm GPS + Cellular | Garmin fenix 8 47mm AMOLED |
|---|---|---|
| Display | OLED, 422×514 | 1.4", AMOLED, 454×454 |
| Chip | Apple S10 | — |
| Memory | 64 GB | 32 GB |
| Battery life | up to 42 h | up to 16 days |
| Connectivity | 5G RedCap, LTE, eSIM | Bluetooth, ANT+, Wi-Fi |
| Navigation | GPS, GLONASS, Galileo, QZSS, BeiDou (L1 + L5) | GPS, GLONASS, Galileo, QZSS, BeiDou |
| NFC | yes | yes |
| Sensors | heart rate, SpO2, barometer, compass, gyroscope, temperature | heart rate, barometer, compass, gyroscope, temperature |
| Protection | 100 m / IP6X / EN13319 | 10 ATM |
| OS | watchOS 26 | — |
| Compatibility | iPhone 11 / iPhone SE 2 / iOS 26 | iPhone, Android |
| Dimensions, weight | 49×44×12 mm, 61.6 g | 47×47×13.8 mm |
| Price | current prices | current prices |
Specs come from the device pages on Smartphone.ua.
Battery life
Up to 42 h vs up to 16 days - a huge gap.
Compatibility
Apple - iPhone only. Garmin - iPhone and Android.
Connectivity
The Ultra 3 has eSIM. The fenix 8 has Bluetooth, ANT+ and Wi-Fi.
Verdict: who should buy which
- A smartwatch for iPhone - Apple Watch Ultra 3.
- Weeks without charging - Garmin fenix 8.
FAQ
How much storage?
64 and 32 GB.
Are both for swimming?
Yes: 100 m and 10 ATM.
Which is cheaper?
The Apple Watch Ultra 3.