Garmin Forerunner 965 vs Samsung Galaxy Watch 3

The Verdict

Garmin's Forerunner 965 dominates battery performance with up to 23 days in smartwatch mode versus Samsung's Galaxy Watch 3's measly 1.5 days typical usage. The Garmin's 1.4-inch AMOLED display at 454 x 454 resolution also surpasses the Galaxy Watch 3's 360 x 360 Super AMOLED screen. For fitness tracking, both offer SpO2 and heart rate monitoring, but Samsung includes ECG functionality while Garmin adds skin temperature monitoring. Samsung's stainless steel or titanium construction with MIL-STD-810G durability rating feels more premium than Garmin's fiber-reinforced polymer, though both handle water activities well (10 ATM vs 5 ATM). The Galaxy Watch 3 weighs slightly less at 48.2g for the 41mm model and includes cellular connectivity, making it genuinely practical for calls without your phone. At $200 less, Samsung offers quicker smartphone integration if you're in the Android ecosystem. However, Garmin's exceptional battery life, superior display resolution, and specialized fitness tracking make it ideal for runners and outdoor athletes who want multi-week usage between charges. Samsung suits users prioritizing smartwatch versatility and lighter weight. Choose Garmin for athletic performance, Samsung for everyday smart features.