Garmin Vivoactive 5 vs Withings ScanWatch

The Verdict

Both watches target the $300 price point but diverge significantly in philosophy. Garmin's Vivoactive 5 prioritizes fitness features with built-in GPS, NFC payments, and a bright 1.2-inch AMOLED display that's easy to read outdoors. Its 11-day smartwatch battery life (21 hours with GPS active) suits active users who track running, cycling, and swimming regularly. The 36-gram weight makes it comfortable for all-day wear. Withings ScanWatch takes a hybrid analog approach, combining a mechanical dial with a small PMOLED screen for a more traditional watch aesthetic. Its standout feature is the clinical-grade ECG function, which Garmin lacks entirely. Battery endurance reaches 30 days in smartwatch mode, eliminating frequent charging hassles. However, the 58-gram weight feels noticeably heavier, and the absence of GPS means you'll need your phone for route tracking. Both offer heart rate, SpO2, and sleep monitoring. Choose Vivoactive 5 if you're a serious athlete needing comprehensive sports tracking and GPS navigation. Select ScanWatch if you want a sophisticated timepiece that doubles as a health monitor with ECG capability and exceptional battery longevity.