Garmin makes a lot of different watches.While brands like Apple, Google and Samsung have two or three smartwatches to choose from, Garmin has dozens, which can make it hard to know which one is right for you.As NBC Selected’s fitness and tech reporter, I test out smartwatches, fitness trackers and smart rings regularly: that includes all of Garmin’s latest watches.
Below are my top recommendations for anyone looking to make the switch or upgrade an older model.Selected.Our top picksBest overallGarmin Vivoactive 6$undefined$294.00AmazonLearn moreBest for runnersGarmin Forerunner 570$undefined$547.00AmazonLearn moreBest for battery lifeGarmin Instinct 3 (Solar)$299.99$399.99AmazonLearn moreBest premiumGarmin Fenix 8 (43mm) (AMOLED)$849.99$1,099.99AmazonLearn moreSee 1 MoreRelatedselectedselectedI’ve tested dozens of workout headphones: These are the bestWant more from NBC Selected? Sign up for our newsletter, The Selection, and shop smarter.The best Garmin watches in 2026Because Garmin makes so many different watches, it probably makes one that is just right for you.Below are my top recommendations.
Every option on this list were samples I requested from the brand for testing purposes for this story.Best overallGarmin Vivoactive 6$294.00Amazon$299.99Best Buy$299.99GarminWhat to knowDisplay: 42mm | Thickness: 10.9mm | Weight (no straps): 23g | Battery life: up to 11 days | Battery life (GPS): up to 21 hours | Built-in GPS: yes | Water resistance: yes, up to 50 meters | ECG: no | Compatible with: iPhone and AndroidWhat we likeExcellent battery lifeRobust fitness trackingExercise animationsSomething to noteApp learning curveThe Garmin Vivoactive 6 has a subtle and understated look, but still contains many of the brand's best features.Courtesy Harry RabinowitzThe Garmin Vivoactive 6 hits just the right balance of features and price that makes it the easiest option to recommend, especially for someone trying out the brand for the first time.It’s a genera...