Apple Watch Series 11 vs Samsung Galaxy Watch 8 vs Garmin Forerunner 265
The Apple Watch Series 11 stands out with its advanced health monitoring features and seamless integration with the Apple ecosystem, while the Samsung Galaxy Watch 8 offers a longer battery life and compatibility with both Android and iOS. The Garmin Forerunner 265 is tailored for serious runners, boasting a larger display and specialized fitness tracking capabilities.
Our verdict
Each smartwatch has its strengths: the Apple Watch Series 11 excels in health features and ecosystem integration, the Galaxy Watch 8 offers versatility and battery life, while the Forerunner 265 is ideal for dedicated runners. Choose based on your primary needs.
Pros & cons
![Apple Watch Series 11 [GPS + Cellular 42mm] Smartwatch with Rose Gold Aluminum Case w Light Blush Sport Band - S/M. Fitness Tracker, Health Monitoring, Always-O](https://m.media-amazon.com/images/W/BW_MEDIAX_AVIF_MEASUREMENT_1306696-T4/images/I/6110Jv9wqeL.jpg)
- Always-On Retina LTPO OLED display
- Comprehensive health sensors including ECG and SpO2
- Seamless integration with iPhone and Apple Health
- Limited battery life of up to 18 hours
- Higher price point compared to competitors
Skip if: You prefer a longer battery life or are not an iPhone user.
- Long battery life of up to 40 hours
- Compatible with both Android and iOS devices
- Includes sleep coaching and running coach features
- Smaller display size of 1.2 inches
- Limited health sensor features compared to Apple Watch
Skip if: You need advanced health tracking features or prefer a larger display.
- Large AMOLED display for easy visibility
- Specialized for running with advanced fitness tracking
- Robust water resistance (5 ATM)
- OS compatibility and charging details not specified
- Limited information on battery life and activity modes
Skip if: You want a smartwatch for general use beyond running.
Side-by-side 9 specs
| Criterion |
Apple Watch Series 11 [GPS + Cellular 42mm] |
Samsung Galaxy Watch 8 40mm |
Garmin Forerunner 265 Running GPS |
|---|---|---|---|
| Type Display | Retina LTPO OLED | Super AMOLED | AMOLED |
| Size Display | 1.9 inches | 1.2 inches | 46mm |
| Duration Battery Life | Up to 18 hours | Up to 40 hours | Not specified |
| GPS GPS | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Heart Rate, SpO2, ECG, Sleep Health Sensors | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Rating Water Resistance | WR50 (50 meters) | 5 ATM | 5 ATM |
| OS Compatibility OS & Phone Compatibility | watchOS, compatible with iPhone | Wear OS, compatible with Android and iOS | Not specified |
| Resolution Display | 396 x 484 pixels | 396 x 396 pixels | Not specified |
| Bluetooth, Wi-Fi Connectivity | Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, LTE, NFC payments | Bluetooth, Wi-Fi | Bluetooth, Wi-Fi |
Key differences
What to know before buying
- Ensure compatibility with your smartphone (iPhone for Apple Watch, Android for Samsung Galaxy Watch).
- Consider the battery life based on your usage patterns.
- Check the health features that are most important to you.
- Look into the companion app ecosystems for additional functionality.
- Be aware of the water resistance ratings if you plan to use the watch for swimming.
Which should you pick?
It provides advanced health tracking and integrates seamlessly with the Apple ecosystem.
Check Price on AmazonIt offers a good balance of features and battery life.
Check Price on AmazonIt is tailored for running with specialized tracking features.
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.