Garmin and Polar are the two leading companies in the smartwatch industry. The two brands are household names because of their popular fitness and sports trackers. Therefore, choosing only one becomes quite challenging.
For those who want accurate GPS and navigation features, Garmin watches are the finest; however, Polar watches are perfec fitness tracking and outdoor capabilities.
In this article, I will highlight the similarities, differences, and pros/cons of Garmin and Polar, so you can decide which option is better for you.
So, without any further ado, let’s get started.
Comparison Table of Garmin and Polar
| Comparison | Garmin | Polar |
| Founded in | 1989 | 1977 |
| Debut Model | Garmin Venu 2 | Polar V800 |
| Flagship Model | Garmin Fenix 7X Solar | Polar Ignite 3 |
| Navigation | Topographic maps | Breadcrumb maps |
| App | Garmin Connect | Coros App |
| Payment Mode | Garmin Pay | Google Pay |
Garmin Vs. Polar Features Comparison
No doubt, both Garmin and Polar make high-quality, feature-packed wearables. There is no need to second-guess which brand is best because they are all equally good.
Both brands make reliable watches with specialized features like GPS, health monitoring, activity tracking, and many others, so picking a favorite comes down to personal opinion.
Listed below are the significant features we examined to find the best option between two leading competitors – Garmin and Polar.
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Garmin vs. Polar: Display
Both Garmin and Polar have clear, easy-to-read displays. However, the most noticeable difference between the two is seen in the display customization.
Polar watches prioritize minimalist design and offer customizable watch faces that are easily updated with the Polar app. On the other hand, Garmin enables users to customize their screens via widgets.
Some Polar models have noticeably darker screens requiring the backlight more often, especially in bright light. However, Garmin watches have displays that can be readable even in bright sunlight.
Another distinguishing characteristic is the integration of touchscreen technology. All Polar watches use touchscreen technology. On the other hand, Garmin has a few models with touchscreen functionality, such as the Forerunner 945, Venu Series, and Vivoactive series. However, most of its watches feature old-style button interfaces.
Therefore, Garmin is the brand you should go with if you value readability more than touchscreen functionality.
Garmin Vs Polar: Build-Quality
Although both the Garmin and Polar watches are well-known for their durability, they are very different from one another.
Garmin watches are made from various materials, depending on the model. For instance, the Fenix Series watches feature a Corning Gorilla Glass DX or sapphire crystal lens. Some of its models are composed of stainless steel, titanium, or diamond-like carbon (DLC) coated steel cases. Typically, the material used for their straps includes silicone, or nylon strap.
When compared to the Fenix Series, the Forerunner Series is more user-friendly. The case and bezel of this series are constructed from a fiber-reinforced polymer, and the lens is made from Corning Gorilla Glass DX.
Polar, on the other hand, offers a more streamlined selection, and all of their watches have round faces and are pretty similar in appearance. Bezels on Polar watches are typically made of stainless steel or aluminum, while the cases are usually made of glass fiber-reinforced polymer, a durable plastic compound.
Furthermore, different watches use different materials for their lenses. Gorilla Glass protects the display of the Vantage V2, and the lens of the Ignite 2 is made of Dragontrail glass. Despite having a plastic body, Polar watches are generally lightweight and remarkably durable.
In a nutshell, the build quality of both Garmin and Polar is superior. There is no reason to question the durability of any of the brands. Considering reliability, both are equal.
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Garmin Vs Polar: GPS Tracking and Navigation
Garmin and Polar offer additional navigational tools beyond GPS, which is why they are so famous among outdoor enthusiasts.
Polar watches have a built-in global positioning system (GPS) that can be used to keep tabs on your whereabouts. It also adds additional navigational features like maps and provides GPS data that is more accurate than most competing brands.
On the other hand, Garmin has a wealth of experience because they have been producing GPS devices since its inception. As a result, their watches incorporate more potent GPS and navigational features. Users can store maps on their watches, share maps, download data, and accurately monitor their routes.
In addition to having maps that are easy to update, Garmin watches also have built-in satellite imagery navigation using systems like GLONASS and Galileo. These continue to monitor your location actively, even in the harshest conditions.
Moreover, the Garmin Fenix series features color topographic mapping, which records your precise location in exquisite detail as you explore unknown paths. There is no denying that Garmin watches are the pinnacle of GPS monitoring and navigation.
Garmin vs. Polar: App
Garmin uses the Garmin Connect App to manage the data the watch gathers. It’s the go-to place for all things related to physical well-being. Whether you’re training for a race or just trying to get more steps in your day, it will give you the data and motivation you need to exceed your previous best.
On the other hand, Polar analyses workout data using the Polar Flow App and plots out stats like heart rate, cadence, speed, and altitude.
In contrast to Garmin, Polar watches don’t upload workout data wirelessly. You have to open the app and do it manually on your watch. Therefore, Garmin Connect is more advantageous than Polar Flow.
Garmin vs. Polar: Heart Rate Monitoring
Both Polar and Garmin watches have wrist-based sensors that assist in keeping track of heart rate. But Polar is believed as the company that makes the most precise heart rate monitors.
It is because the famous Polar brand got its start as a means of monitoring the user’s heart rate. They claim that their Polar Vintage smartwatch is the only one available with bio-impedance technology, which eliminates the effects of motion on readings.
In contrast, Garmin also provides accurate heart rate monitoring due to its continuously evolving sensors. The optical heart rate sensor used in most of their advanced models provides precise and expertly curated heart rate data.
The sensor technology utilized by Polar and Garmin is consistently updated, and both companies offer additional equipment like chest straps for increased accuracy when monitoring your heart rate.
To conclude, Polar undoubtedly dominates this field because of its extensive history in heart rate monitoring.
Garmin vs Polar: Activity Tracking
Besides heart rate monitoring, both Garmin and Polar watches have a wide variety of sport-specific tracking features. Comparatively speaking to other brands, Garmin and Polar take great pride in having excessive training and recovery features.
Garmin watches come with various pre-set training profiles for specific activities like marathon running, swimming, cycling, and hiking.
Other training features include VO2 max estimation, automatic blood oxygen saturation measurements, and running dynamics analysis. Also, a Body Battery feature displays your current energy level relative to your training and recovery progress.
On the other hand, polar watches have specialized profiles for popular sports and exercises like swimming, track running, and cycling. In addition, they incorporate training features like HillSplitter, which differentiates uphill and downhill performance, and FuelWise, which offers dietary recommendations.
Besides its fitness trackers, Polar is well-known for its unique active features, such as CrossFit. Other than that, it has a lot of recovery features like “Training Load Pro,” “Nightly Recharge,” and “Recovery Pro,” etc.
Both brands excel at workout and recovery data tracking. However, Garmin is preferred for training, while Polar is more famous for recovery.
Garmin VS Polar: Battery Life
When comparing Garmin and Polar models, the battery life can be different from one to the next. Both manufacturers have worked hard to ensure that their batteries give users enough time to finish their tasks.
Garmin makes some of the most reliable watch batteries available. If used in smartwatch mode, they can last for weeks or months on a single charge. Their top-of-the-line watch can function for up to 60 hours in GPS mode.
Other Garmin watches, such as the Fenix 7X Solar and the Garmin Enduro, also benefit outdoor enthusiasts by being able to charge their batteries via solar energy.
Aside from that, every Garmin watch has a power-saving mode that stops unnecessary apps or features from using energy when they’re not in use. This feature can provide additional hours of battery life when you need it most.
On the other hand, polar watches have a 40- to 65-hour battery life in GPS mode, making them the clear winner when compared to Garmin. But except for the Polar Vintage series, no other Polar watch comes close to the battery life of a Garmin.
So, if you want a smartwatch with a long battery life, your best bet will always be a Garmin. It’s a huge plus that all their watches have exceptional battery life!
Garmin vs. Polar: Price
Lastly, price is another essential element that you must consider while purchasing a watch. Both brands have a large selection of wearables available at various price points.
Garmin produces wearables between $200 to $1200, while Polar watches typically cost between $200 and $600. Even though Garmin watches are a little pricey, they are all worth the money.
Above all, Garmin manufactures a range of budget, midrange, and luxury watches. So everyone can purchase a watch that fits their budget.
Pros and Cons of Garmin
Pros
- Garmin watches come with elegant and lightweight designs.
- Their watches offer an accurate GPS with colorful topographic maps.
- Garmin watches have good readability on their screen due to the transflective memory-in pixels (MIP).
- Garmin offers a variety of watches with different price ranges to suit everyone.
- Garmin watches are designed with loads of multi-sport features like running, hiking, cycling, swimming, and many more.
- Most models are designed to be water-resistant.
- Garmin watches are compatible with running apps like Strava, Nike Run Club, and RunKeeper.
- Their watches last for long durations regarding battery timing. Above all, some watches have the ability of solar-powered charging, which is a significant plus.
Cons
- Some of their watches have retro buttons designed for operation.
- The size of topographic maps is minimal.
- Some customers complain about the high costs of entry-level smartwatches.
Pros and Cons of Polar
Pros
- Polar has a long history of producing high-quality timepieces.
- Their watches have passed many US military-grade checks to ensure their durability.
- Their watches have advanced software.
- Most of their watches also lack support for music streaming services, storage for local music, etc.
- Some models come with the ability to personalized running plans.
- Their watches come with multiple battery life modes.
Cons
- Most Polar watches need to utilize newer technologies such as OLED for their display.
- There are some compatibility issues with other android and iOS devices.
- On specific models, the display is a little dark
- Watch face can be small on some of their watches
Reasons to Choose Garmin
If you’re looking for a GPS watch that won’t let you down in everyday use, look no further than a Garmin. In addition to accurate GPS, their watches are stylish, well-made, and packed with valuable features like a heart rate monitor and many options for different workouts.
Some Garmin watches have top-tier smartwatch features like NFC for contactless payments, music storage, and smart notifications.
In addition, Garmin offers a wide variety of collections, such as Fenix, MARQ, Instinct, Vivoactive, Venu, and Forerunner series. You can find a best Garmin watch that suits your needs and budget among the various collections available.
Top 2 Garmin Smartwatches
Here are the top two best-selling smartwatches offered by Garmin:
1. Garmin Forerunner 945 – Best Overall
Product Specifications:
- Compatibility: Android and iOS
- Display: 1.2 inches
- Built-in GPS: Yes
- Water Resistance Rating: 50 meters
- Storage: 8 GB
- Batter Life: 14 Days
If you are looking for the best sports watch, look no further than Garmin Forerunner 945. It has everything a sportsman needs to show off his abilities.
The Forerunner 945 is a rugged watch that features a bright screen. The screen on the Forerunner 945 is made of gorilla glass, which is very tough and protects the watch face from scratches and damage caused by sudden impacts.
The Forerunner 945 excels in the areas of fitness and wellness. It includes a variety of sports profiles, including running, hiking, mountain biking, and many others, making it simple to track your activities based on your preferences.
The watch has a longer battery life than the other Garmin watches, lasting up to 14 days in smartwatch mode and 36 hours in GPS mode.
Garmin Forerunner 955
- Built with an always-on
- Battery life up to 15 days
- Full-color maps
- Access multiple global navigation satellite systems
2. Garmin Vivoactive 3 – Best Durable Smartwatch
Product Specifications:
- Display: 1.2 inches
- Built-in GPS: Yes
- Compatibility: Android and iOS
- IP Rating: 50 meters
- Battery Life: Up to 7 days
The Garmin Vivoactive series is among the company’s most advanced smartwatch offerings. Garmin’s Vivoactive 3 is one of the most durable watches available. The bezel of this watch is made of high-grade stainless steel and is shielded by a layer of scratch-resistant Gorilla Glass 3 against damage.
Not only is the watch durable, but it also has an accurate GPS for monitoring your trips and the distance covered. Additionally, you can connect this watch to the GPS on your smartphone.
You can also get notifications from various third-party apps on your wrist, which is a handy feature. Additionally, you can use the Garmin Pay feature on your smartwatch to pay your bills.
The battery life of the Vivoactive 3 is remarkable, lasting seven days when used as a smartwatch and 13 hours in GPS mode.
Reasons To Choose Polar
Polar watches are fantastic for athletes and cyclers in particular. The company combines high-quality wrist-based heart-rate sensors with helpful training and recovery features. These watches are not only great for cycling but also suitable for running, hiking, hunting, weight lifting, etc.
Polar watches are well-made, affordable, and stylish. You can get a high-quality watch no matter what your budget is.
In short, polar watches are the best option if you need a durable timepiece for various sports.
Top 2 Polar Smartwatches
Here are the top two best-selling smartwatches by Polar:
1. Polar Vantage V2 – Premium Smartwatch
Product Specifications:
- Screen Size: 1.2 inches
- Human Interface Input: Touch screen
- Band Material: Rubber
- Built-in GPS: Yes
- Weight: 52 grams
- Battery Life: Up to 7 Days
- Water Resistance: 10 ATM
The Polar Vantage V2 is a fitness tracker created with precision in mind for use by runners, cyclists, and hikers.
With a fiber-reinforced polymer glass face and an aluminum alloy bezel, this sports watch is built to last. Additionally, this watch has a water resistance of 100 meters, making it suitable for use in the shower or pool.
In addition, the smartwatch is preloaded with the popular Polar Flow app, which provides users with the features they need to customize their tracking of a wide variety of activities, both indoors and out.
In addition to GPS, it provides GLONASS, GALILEO, and QZSS for more precise and quick routing. It also includes an ABC sensor for continuous weather monitoring.
The battery life of the Polar Vantage V2 is impressive, lasting for up to 7 days when in smartwatch mode and 40 hours when using the GPS.
2. Polar Ignite 2 – Best Training Smartwatch
Product Specifications:
- Screen Size: 1.2 inches
- Human Interface Input: Touchscreen
- Built-in GPS: Yes
- Water Resistance Rating: 30 Meters
- Battery Life: 5 days in smartwatch mode
The Polar Ignite 2 is a stylish smartwatch that resembles a sports watch. The aesthetic and practical value of this watch is harmoniously balanced.
The display on the Polar Ignite 2 is bright and has an attractive look. There is a 1.2-inch screen with a 240-by-240 resolution that is always on. Moreover, it provides outstanding readability even when exposed to direct sunlight.
Polar Ignite features over 130 sports profiles for athletes, each of which can be further customized for individual needs.
In terms of health, it has a wide variety of health-tracking features. These include monitoring heart rate, blood pressure, sleep quality, calorie burn, etc.
As for battery life, Polar Ignite 2 performs admirably. The built-in 165 mAh battery allows for 20 hours in training mode and nearly five days in watch mode. Although it is not as good as other watches, it is satisfactory for daily use.
Polar Ignite 2
- 5 days activity tracking with continuous heart rate measurement
- Up to 90 hours of training with GPS
- Exhaustive list of exercise programs
- Premium watch faces
- Lightweight
Garmin VS Polar: Which One Is Best For Running?
Garmin is undoubtedly the best running watch brand, providing all the essential running features that amateur and professional runners need. All Garmin watches have an accurate GPS that records your running data, such as distance, pace, speed, and more.
Another essential feature that a runner seeks is training load. This feature is standard on nearly all of Garmin’s running watches. It is helpful to calculate your exercise volume over the previous seven days.
There’s a recovery time advisor that calculates how long you should wait between sessions, so you can keep improving. Undoubtedly, it’s useful for training runners who want to improve their performance.
As a bonus, Garmin watches track your running dynamics like cadence, stride length, ground contact time balance, and vertical oscillation. In addition, their watches show compatibility with various running apps, including Strava, RunKeeper, and Nike Run Club, to record their running data.
Above all, all Garmin wearables come with the assistance of Garmin Coach. You can get helpful adaptive training plans from this virtual trainer through the Garmin App. These Garmin Coach adaptive training plans offer guidance on how to train effectively.
The Garmin running watch also allows you to receive smart notifications from other apps directly on the smartwatch, which is convenient during running. Additionally, most Garmin watches come with sufficient storage space for music, allowing you to take your workouts to the next level while still having fun.
Following is the list of the best Garmin watches for running in 2023:
- Garmin Forerunner 945
- Garmin Fenix 7X Sapphire
- Garmin Forerunner 955
- Garmin Vivoactive 4
- Garmin Venu Sq
Garmin VS Polar: Which One Is Best For Health Monitoring?
Both Polar and Garmin offer health monitoring capabilities to support your overall well-being goals. You can get fantastic sensors from them to keep track of your health status.
Garmin smartwatches are ideal for health-conscious users because they feature in-built sensors that measure heart rate, track steps, distance traveled, sleep time, and calories in the body.
However, Polar watches also feature a variety of health monitoring sensors, such as those for blood pressure, blood oxygen, heart rate, stress tracking, and sleep tracking. Additionally, many of their watches track a woman’s menstrual cycle, which is a significant plus.
Long story short, both Garmin and Polar are excellent health trackers, but when precision is taken into account, Garmin comes out on top.
Polar VS Garmin: Which One Is Best For Cycling?
Polar smartwatches are ideal for cyclists because they feature various cycling-specific features, such as tracking your functional threshold power and VO2 max.
In addition, it has a built-in GPS so you can monitor your cycling route, distance, and speed in real-time. In addition, Polar watches can tell when you’re going up or downhill while cycling, so you can see how well you’re doing on the ascent or descent from your watch’s display of speed, distance, and altitude.
In addition to GPS, Polar watches have an altimeter, barometer, and compass for navigating cycling routes. The Fuel Wise feature on their watches also reminds you when to refuel with food and water.
Furthermore, their watches come equipped with new performance tests to track your cycling capabilities while customizing your heart rate, speed, and power zones that suit your individual needs. In the long run, it aids in improving cycling performance.
Some of the best cycling watches produced by Polar are as follows:
Final Verdict
Garmin and Polar are two of the most well-known brands in the world of sports watches. Their watches are top-notch, and they sell a wide variety of sports watches for athletes.
To choose a watch from any of these manufacturers, however, you must first consider the features you value most.
Garmin is the best option if you’re looking for a brand that offers long battery life, a simple-to-use app, and a variety of models across a wide price range.
On the other hand, polar watches are top choices for professional athletes due to their precision and advanced heart rate tracking capabilities. Besides, you can learn how your body responds to training thanks to the exceptional recovery features they offer.
We hope this thorough analysis of Garmin and Polar has made it easier for you to make the right choice.
Thank you for reading!
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