This model is no longer sold new. It has been replaced by the Garmin Forerunner 970.
Best for: Competitive runners, triathletes, and ultramarathon runners who want full maps, running dynamics, and premium build.
Full details →Reaching maturity, next model expected soon
Best for: 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 11.
Full details →| Garmin Forerunner 965 | Apple Watch Ultra | |
|---|---|---|
| Tier | Sports GPS | Sports GPS |
| Platform | iOS & Android | iOS only |
| Battery | 23 days | 1.75 days |
| Always-on display | ❌ | ✅ |
| GPS | ✅ | ✅ |
| Cellular | ❌ | ✅ |
| Health sensors | hr, spo2, hrv, stress, body battery, training readiness, running dynamics | ecg, spo2, skin temp, hrv, blood pressure |
| Released | Mar 1, 2023 | Sep 19, 2025 |
| Cycle length | 806 days | 727 days |
| Cycle advice | superseded | neutral |
| Deals advice | clearance | neutral |
| Next model | — | Apple Watch Ultra 4 (Expected fall 2026) |
Turn-by-turn navigation on full TopoActive maps — essential for trail running and mountain racing.
Cadence, stride length, vertical oscillation, ground contact time, and running power.
Enough for week-long trail ultras without a charge.
The Ultra 3 nearly doubles the Series 11 battery life, and satellite emergency SOS works even without cellular or WiFi coverage.
More precise GPS tracking in urban canyons and dense forests — critical for trail running, mountaineering, and triathlon.
The 49mm titanium case and 3000-nit display make this watch usable in full direct sunlight and water depths up to 100m (EN13319 certified for diving).