Apple Watch SE (1st Gen) vs Garmin Venu Sq 2
The Verdict
Apple's SE 1st Gen delivers the polished watchOS ecosystem with NFC payments and optional cellular connectivity, pairing an S5 processor with an always-off OLED display that refreshes when needed. Garmin's Venu Sq 2 counters with impressive longevity,11 days in smartwatch mode versus 18 hours,plus SpO2 monitoring and true always-on AMOLED functionality for constant visibility. Apple excels in app ecosystem and seamless iPhone integration, while Garmin dominates fitness tracking depth and battery efficiency. Display quality favors Apple's LTPO technology, though Garmin's always-on approach appeals to users prioritizing continuous health metrics. At $30 less, the Venu Sq 2 offers exceptional value for fitness-focused buyers willing to sacrifice ecosystem integration. Choose Apple for iPhone devotees seeking premium experience; select Garmin for endurance athletes demanding multi-week battery life and comprehensive health data.
Who Should Buy
Buy the Apple Watch SE (1st Gen) if…
- →Affordable entry into the Apple Watch ecosystem with core features
- →Same large display as Series 6 — no visible compromise
- →Fall detection and emergency SOS for safety
Buy the Garmin Venu Sq 2 if…
- →11-day battery life destroys Apple Watch and Galaxy Watch endurance
- →AMOLED display with always-on mode at an affordable price
- →Garmin's best-in-class GPS accuracy for running and cycling
Category Scores
Pros & Cons
Apple Watch SE (1st Gen)
Pros
- Affordable entry into the Apple Watch ecosystem with core features
- Same large display as Series 6 — no visible compromise
- Fall detection and emergency SOS for safety
- Compass and always-on altimeter for outdoor activities
- Family Setup enables use for kids without an iPhone
Cons
- No Always-On display — must raise wrist to see the time
- Older S5 chip — slower than the 2022 SE's S8
- No ECG, SpO2, or blood oxygen monitoring
- No fast charging — takes about 2.5 hours for full charge
Garmin Venu Sq 2
Pros
- 11-day battery life destroys Apple Watch and Galaxy Watch endurance
- AMOLED display with always-on mode at an affordable price
- Garmin's best-in-class GPS accuracy for running and cycling
- 25+ built-in sport modes with detailed workout analytics
- NFC for Garmin Pay contactless payments
Cons
- No ECG or skin temperature monitoring
- Square design is polarizing — not as elegant as round watches
- Garmin OS has far fewer third-party apps than Wear OS
- No cellular option — phone must be nearby for notifications
Full Specifications
| Spec | Apple Watch SE (1st Gen) | Garmin Venu Sq 2 |
|---|---|---|
| Software | watchOS 7 (upgradable to watchOS 10) | Garmin OS |
| Body | ||
| Weight | 30.49 g (40mm) / 36.2 g (44mm) | 38 g |
| Case material | Aluminum | Aluminum bezel, fiber-reinforced polymer |
| Water resistance | WR50 (50m) | 5ATM |
| Health & Sensors | ||
| ECG | ||
| SpO₂ | ||
| Skin temperature | ||
| Heart rate | ||
| Sleep tracking | ||
| Battery | ||
| Battery life | Up to 18 hours | Up to 11 days (smartwatch mode), 26 hrs GPS |
| Display | ||
| Size | 40mm / 44mm | 40 mm (1.41 inches) |
| Type | LTPO OLED Retina | AMOLED |
| Always-on display | ||
| Resolution | 324 x 394 / 368 x 448 | 320 x 360 |
| Processor | ||
| Chipset | Apple S5 SiP | Garmin proprietary |
| Connectivity | ||
| GPS | ||
| NFC | ||
| Wi-Fi | ||
| Cellular | ||
| Bluetooth | 5.0 | 5.0 |
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This comparison is based on verified manufacturer specifications covering display, performance, camera, battery, and build quality. Scores are generated by analyzing specs across weighted categories on a 10-point scale. Learn more about our methodology.
Explore more in smartwatches, see all Apple products or all Garmin products. View full details for the Apple Watch SE (1st Gen) or the Garmin Venu Sq 2.