| Apple Watch Ultra | Garmin Venu | |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing | ||
| Starting price | $799 | $549★ |
| Subscription | ✓ None | ℹ️ Optional — $70/yr |
| Hardware | ||
| Weight | 63g | 42g★ |
| Water resistance | 100m★ | 5ATM |
| Battery | 2.1 days | 12 days★ |
| Always-on display | ✅ | ✅ |
| GPS | ✅ | ✅ |
| Cellular | ✅★ | ❌ |
| Platform | iOS only | iOS & Android |
| Tier | Sports GPS | Smartwatch |
| Buy timing | ||
| Released | Sep 18, 2026 | Sep 22, 2025 |
| Cycle advice | good★ | neutral |
| Deals advice | neutral | great★ |
| Next model | — | — |
The Ultra 4 lasts roughly twice as long as the Series 12, with up to 45 hours of GPS workout tracking in Max Extended Workout mode. Satellite Emergency SOS works without cellular or WiFi coverage.
The new health sensing system samples heart rate every five seconds all day and HRV every five minutes, feeding a 0–10 readiness score.
The 49mm titanium case and 3000-nit display make this watch usable in full direct sunlight and water depths up to 100m (recreational scuba diving to 40m).
The Venu 4 adds on-demand ECG (a first for the Venu line) alongside Garmin's signature Body Battery energy score — combining health monitoring and daily readiness in one watch.
A white/red LED flashlight and a speaker/microphone for hands-free calling — practical features that set the Venu 4 apart from the Venu 3.
SatIQ multi-band GPS for precise tracking in cities and trails, with up to 12 days of battery life in the 45mm model — significantly more than any comparable smartwatch.
The right pick depends on what you optimize for.
$759 vs $799 over 3 years.
12 days vs 2.1 days battery.
12 sensors · 0.2 Hz HR sampling.
42g.
Serious athletes, trail runners, triathletes, and outdoor adventurers who need the most durable, most accurate GPS watch Apple makes. Also for iPhone users who simply want the best Apple Watch regardless of sport, and value the extra battery life over the Series 12.
Full details →Users who want Garmin's best health analytics and sports tracking on a stylish AMOLED watch for everyday wear. Works equally well for Android and iPhone. The Venu 4 adds ECG and a flashlight to the formula — ideal for anyone who wants a capable lifestyle watch with genuine health monitoring depth.
Full details →