Samsung Galaxy Watch8 vs Garmin Forerunner 265S vs Apple Watch Series 11
The Samsung Galaxy Watch8 stands out with its advanced health coaching features, while the Garmin Forerunner 265S excels in battery life and training metrics. The Apple Watch Series 11 offers a robust ecosystem for iOS users, making it a strong contender in this comparison.
Our verdict
Overall, the Samsung Galaxy Watch8 is ideal for those seeking comprehensive health tracking and a vibrant display. The Garmin Forerunner 265S is better suited for serious athletes needing extended battery life, while the Apple Watch Series 11 is perfect for iOS users who value seamless integration with their devices.
Pros & cons
- Super AMOLED display with high resolution
- Comprehensive health and sleep coaching features
- Wireless charging capability
- Limited battery life compared to Garmin
- Compatible only with Android smartphones
Skip if: You are an iOS user looking for seamless integration with Apple devices.
- Long battery life of up to 13 days
- Multiple sport/activity modes including swimming
- Advanced training metrics and recovery tracking
- Smaller display size compared to others
- Limited compatibility with non-Garmin apps
Skip if: You prefer a smartwatch with extensive app support and features beyond fitness tracking.
- Seamless integration with iOS devices
- Robust health monitoring features including Sleep Score
- Water resistance up to 50m
- Shorter battery life compared to Garmin
- Display resolution not specified
Skip if: You are an Android user or do not require advanced fitness tracking features.
Side-by-side 9 specs
| Criterion |
Samsung Galaxy Watch8 |
Garmin Forerunner 265S |
Apple Watch Series 11 GPS 42mm |
|---|---|---|---|
| Type Display | Super AMOLED | AMOLED | Always-On Retina |
| Size Display | 1.4 inches | 1.1 inches | 42mm |
| Duration Battery Life | Up to 40 hours | Up to 13 days | Up to 18 hours |
| Included GPS | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Types Health Sensors | Heart rate, SpO2, ECG, Sleep tracking | Heart rate, SpO2, Sleep tracking | Heart rate, SpO2, ECG, Sleep tracking |
| Rating Water Resistance | 5 ATM | 5 ATM | 50m (5 ATM) |
| Types Connectivity | Bluetooth, Wi-Fi | Bluetooth, Wi-Fi | Bluetooth, Wi-Fi |
| Compatibility OS & Phone Compatibility | Wear OS, Android | Garmin OS, iOS & Android | watchOS, iOS |
| Type Charging | Wireless charging | Magnetic charging cable | Magnetic charging cable |
Key differences
What to know before buying
- Ensure compatibility with your smartphone's operating system.
- Consider the battery life based on your usage patterns.
- Check the availability of desired sport/activity modes.
- Evaluate the health tracking features that are most important to you.
- Review the companion app's functionality and integration with other services.
Which should you pick?
It offers comprehensive health tracking features and a vibrant display.
Check Price on AmazonIt provides extended battery life and advanced training metrics.
Check Price on AmazonIt integrates seamlessly with iOS devices and offers robust health monitoring.
Check Price on AmazonFAQ
How we compared these products
This comparison is based on manufacturer specifications and publicly available product information, organized and analyzed by our editorial team. It reflects editorial opinion, not a hands-on lab test. Figures shown as "Not specified" were not confirmed and were left out rather than guessed.
Last updated: November 2026 · Prices and availability change — always confirm on Amazon.