Apple Watch SE 2 (2023) vs Garmin Fenix 8 Pro
The Verdict
The Apple Watch SE 2 (2023) and Garmin Fenix 8 Pro sit in the same category and end up appealing to slightly different buyers. The Apple Watch SE 2 (2023) is the cheaper of the two at $249 versus $1,200, a difference of about $951. The Garmin Fenix 8 Pro is the newer release, which usually means a faster chipset and longer software support. Apple Watch SE 2 (2023) stands out for best value apple watch — all core features at a significantly lower price, while Garmin Fenix 8 Pro is praised for inreach satellite + cellular connectivity. Use the side-by-side spec table below to compare cameras, displays, battery life and connectivity in detail and decide which one fits your priorities.
Who Should Buy
Buy the Apple Watch SE 2 (2023) if…
- →Best value Apple Watch — all core features at a significantly lower price
- →Crash Detection and Emergency SOS via satellite
- →Lightweight recycled aluminum case is comfortable all day
Buy the Garmin Fenix 8 Pro if…
- →inReach satellite + cellular connectivity
- →Up to 27 days battery (AMOLED)
- →MicroLED display option ($1999)
Pros & Cons
Apple Watch SE 2 (2023)
Pros
- Best value Apple Watch — all core features at a significantly lower price
- Crash Detection and Emergency SOS via satellite
- Lightweight recycled aluminum case is comfortable all day
- Compatible with all Apple Watch bands
- Gets latest watchOS features including Siri and Maps
Cons
- No always-on display
- No ECG, SpO2, or skin temperature sensor
- Same battery life as pricier models — still needs daily charging
- S8 chip is not the latest — misses Double Tap gesture
Garmin Fenix 8 Pro
Pros
- inReach satellite + cellular connectivity
- Up to 27 days battery (AMOLED)
- MicroLED display option ($1999)
- LTE voice calls and two-way messaging
- Built for extreme outdoor adventures
Cons
- $1199 starting price ($1999 MicroLED)
- No ECG sensor
- Garmin OS lacks app ecosystem of watchOS/Wear OS
- 73g is heavy on the wrist
Full Specifications
| Spec | Apple Watch SE 2 (2023) | Garmin Fenix 8 Pro |
|---|---|---|
| Software | watchOS 10 | Garmin OS |
| Body | ||
| Weight | 26.4 g | 73 g (47mm AMOLED) |
| Case material | Recycled aluminum | Titanium bezel, fiber-reinforced polymer |
| Water resistance | WR50 | 10 ATM |
| Health & Sensors | ||
| ECG | ||
| SpO₂ | ||
| Skin temperature | ||
| Heart rate | ||
| Sleep tracking | ||
| Battery | ||
| Battery life | Up to 18 hrs, up to 36 hrs Low Power Mode | Up to 27 days (AMOLED smartwatch mode) |
| Display | ||
| Size | 44 mm | 47mm / 51mm |
| Type | Retina LTPO OLED | AMOLED or MicroLED |
| Always-on display | ||
| Resolution | 368 x 448 | — |
| Processor | ||
| RAM | 1 GB | — |
| Chipset | Apple S8 SiP | Garmin proprietary |
| Connectivity | ||
| GPS | ||
| NFC | ||
| Wi-Fi | ||
| Cellular | ||
| Bluetooth | 5.3 | 5.2 |
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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 2 (2023) or the Garmin Fenix 8 Pro.