Apple Watch SE 2 (2023) vs Garmin Venu 2
The Verdict
Apple Watch SE 2 targets casual users with a lightweight design, seamless iOS integration, and cellular connectivity at an attractive entry price. Garmin Venu 2 appeals to fitness enthusiasts with superior battery longevity (11 days versus 18 hours), blood oxygen monitoring, always-on AMOLED display, and comprehensive health tracking features. SE 2's S8 chip delivers snappier performance and watchOS 10 offers broader app ecosystem, while Venu 2's custom OS excels in sports modes and detailed training metrics. SE 2 is lighter (26.4g vs 49g) and more fashion-forward, but Venu 2's stainless steel construction feels more premium. For iPhone users prioritizing daily smartwatch features and affordability, SE 2 wins decisively. Fitness-focused buyers will appreciate Venu 2's multi-day battery and dedicated health sensors, justifying the $150 premium.
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 Venu 2 if…
- →Stunning AMOLED display with always-on option
- →11-day battery life outperforms most AMOLED smartwatches
- →Comprehensive fitness tracking with 25+ sport profiles
Category Scores
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 Venu 2
Pros
- Stunning AMOLED display with always-on option
- 11-day battery life outperforms most AMOLED smartwatches
- Comprehensive fitness tracking with 25+ sport profiles
- Health Snapshot for quick 2-minute wellness checks
- Garmin Pay for contactless payments via NFC
Cons
- No ECG or blood pressure monitoring
- No cellular option — requires phone for notifications
- Limited smart features compared to Apple Watch or Wear OS
- Third-party app ecosystem is limited
- $399 is expensive for a non-cellular watch
Full Specifications
| Spec | Apple Watch SE 2 (2023) | Garmin Venu 2 |
|---|---|---|
| Software | watchOS 10 | Garmin proprietary OS |
| Body | ||
| Weight | 26.4 g | 49 g |
| Case material | Recycled aluminum | Stainless steel bezel, fiber-reinforced polymer case |
| Water resistance | WR50 | 5ATM |
| 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 11 days (smartwatch), 8 hrs GPS with music |
| Display | ||
| Size | 44 mm | 45mm |
| Type | Retina LTPO OLED | AMOLED Always-On |
| Always-on display | ||
| Resolution | 368 x 448 | 416 x 416 |
| Processor | ||
| RAM | 1 GB | — |
| Chipset | Apple S8 SiP | Garmin custom SoC |
| Connectivity | ||
| GPS | ||
| NFC | ||
| Wi-Fi | ||
| Cellular | ||
| Bluetooth | 5.3 | 5.1 |
Related Comparisons
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 Venu 2.