Apple Watch SE 2 (2023) vs Garmin Venu Sq 2
The Verdict
Both smartwatches target the $249 budget segment but serve different priorities. Apple Watch SE 2 delivers superior performance with the S8 chip, cellular connectivity, and watchOS's app ecosystem, making it ideal for iPhone users seeking seamless integration. Its 18-hour battery requires daily charging, though Low Power Mode extends this to 36 hours. Garmin Venu Sq 2 excels in health tracking with built-in SpO2 monitoring and battery longevity,11 days in smartwatch mode eliminates frequent charging. Garmin's always-on AMOLED display and GPS sports features appeal to fitness-focused users, though it lacks cellular and NFC payments. Choose Apple Watch SE 2 if you prioritize performance and ecosystem integration; select Garmin Venu Sq 2 if battery life and health metrics matter most.
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 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 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 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 2 (2023) | Garmin Venu Sq 2 |
|---|---|---|
| Software | watchOS 10 | Garmin OS |
| Body | ||
| Weight | 26.4 g | 38 g |
| Case material | Recycled aluminum | Aluminum bezel, fiber-reinforced polymer |
| 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 mode), 26 hrs GPS |
| Display | ||
| Size | 44 mm | 40 mm (1.41 inches) |
| Type | Retina LTPO OLED | AMOLED |
| Always-on display | ||
| Resolution | 368 x 448 | 320 x 360 |
| Processor | ||
| RAM | 1 GB | — |
| Chipset | Apple S8 SiP | Garmin proprietary |
| Connectivity | ||
| GPS | ||
| NFC | ||
| Wi-Fi | ||
| Cellular | ||
| Bluetooth | 5.3 | 5.0 |
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 Sq 2.