The Apple Watch Series 11 is shaping up to be a significant upgrade with a focus on design, display, and performance enhancements, while the Garmin Venu 4 emphasizes fitness tracking accuracy, battery life, and smartwatch features. The best choice depends on individual priorities, with Apple targeting a premium user experience and Garmin catering to fitness enthusiasts.
| Attribute | Apple Watch Series 11 | Garmin Venu 4 |
|---|---|---|
| Design | Expected to have a new design with a thinner body and smaller bezels. Possible new band attachment system to support smart bands. | Sleek and durable design that is both lightweight and robust. Designed to be comfortable for all-day wear. |
| Display | Expected to feature a brighter screen, potentially using microLED technology for sharper visuals and better energy efficiency. | Upgraded AMOLED display with increased brightness and higher resolution. Adaptive brightness adjusts automatically. |
| Performance | Likely to have a faster processor (S11 chip) for smoother performance and faster app launching. | Not available |
| Battery Life (typical use) | Aiming for up to 48 hours of battery life with typical use; Apple typically claims 18 hours for regular models. | Expected to have extended battery life, Venue 3 has 14-day battery life in smartwatch mode. |
| Health Tracking | May include blood pressure monitoring with hypertension detection. Redesigned blood oxygen (SpO2) sensor. Advanced health sensors for glucose monitoring are in development. | Tracks blood oxygen levels for a comprehensive view of physical condition. |
| Software | Will run watchOS 12, possibly featuring a redesigned interface inspired by Apple Vision Pro; sleep scoring feature via watchOS 26. | Not available |
| Connectivity | Cellular models may include a MediaTek modem, potentially paving the way for 5G Reduced Capacity support and satellite functionality. | Not available |
| Water Resistance Rating | 50 meters under ISO standard 22810:2010 (Apple Watch Series 2 and later). | 50 meters (5 ATM), suitable for splashes, rain, snow, showering, swimming, and snorkeling. |
| Other Features | Possible inclusion of an AI health coach app for personalized fitness insights. | Not available |
| Heart Rate Monitoring Accuracy | Generally accurate, often within 5 bpm during rest. Accuracy can decrease during high-intensity workouts. | Fairly accurate, on par with other leading wearables; MAE less than 5 bpm during steady state activities. Snug fit and chest strap recommended for optimal accuracy. |
| ECG Functionality | Available on Apple Watch Series 4 and later models. | Available in many countries (US, UK, EU, Australia); detects signs of atrial fibrillation (AFib). |
| Blood Oxygen (SpO2) Monitoring | Uses reflective mode oximetry, which may be less accurate than dedicated pulse oximeters. Not intended for medical use, designed for general fitness and wellness purposes. | Tracks blood oxygen levels for a comprehensive view of physical condition. |
| Sleep Tracking Quality | Estimates time spent in different sleep stages (REM, Core, Deep). Best sleep-tracking algorithm compared to other smartwatches and fitness sensors. | Advanced sleep tracking provides detailed insights into sleep quality, tracks sleep stages, and provides a sleep score. |
| GPS Accuracy for Outdoor Activities | Decreases with increasing exercise intensity. | Advanced GPS for accurate tracking during running, cycling, and swimming. Dual-band GPS may be included. |
| Display Brightness and Clarity | Expected to feature a brighter screen, which makes it easier to read notifications and time even in direct sunlight. | Upgraded AMOLED display with increased brightness and higher resolution. Adaptive brightness adjusts automatically. |
| Fitness Tracking Features (specific activities supported) | Can track various workouts, and with watchOS 11, activity rings are more customizable. | Built-in GPS for tracking running, cycling, swimming, and more. Multiple fitness modes for both beginners and advanced users. May include specialized modes for triathlons and track running. |
| Smartwatch Features (notifications, calls) | Make and take calls as long as you go for the cellular model. | Smart notifications for calls, messages, and alerts. Garmin Pay for contactless payments and built-in music storage. Voice assistant compatibility could also be included. |
| App Compatibility and Ecosystem | Not available | Expected to have expanded app support for music streaming, advanced fitness apps, and productivity tools. |
| Comfort and Design | Series 11 might finally get a fresh design. | Not available |
| Price | Not available | Not available |
| Ratings | Overall: Not available, Performance: Not available | Not available |