Can fēnix 8 Pro Takes on Watch Ultra 3?
The battle for the premium smartwatch crown has heated up. Garmin has launched the fēnix 8 Pro series, bringing satellite connectivity and a MicroLED display. Meanwhile, Apple has unveiled the Watch Ultra 3, its most advanced adventure watch with built-in 5G, satellite messaging, and new health features.
Garmin fēnix 8 Pro: Built for Explorers
Garmin fēnix 8 Pro is the first smartwatch with inReach satellite and cellular connectivity built into the watch itself. Users can text, send voice notes, make calls, and even share live locations, without carrying a phone.
It also includes SOS support through the Garmin Response center, offering real-time coordination during emergencies worldwide. This makes it a serious tool for climbers, divers, and backcountry adventurers.
The big highlight is the MicroLED display, delivering up to 4,500 nits of brightness. This makes it the brightest smartwatch ever, ensuring clear visibility even under direct sunlight. Rugged titanium bezels, dive rating, and an LED flashlight add to its durability.
Battery life ranges up to 27 days on the AMOLED version and 10 days on the MicroLED variant. Prices start at $1,199.99, with the MicroLED model costing $1,999.99.
Apple Watch Ultra 3: More Health and 5G Power
Apple has taken a different route with the Watch Ultra 3, making it the largest-screen Apple Watch yet. Its LTPO3 OLED display reduces bezels while staying power efficient. The watch promises up to 42 hours of use, and 72 hours in Low Power Mode.
The big leap is 5G cellular connectivity for faster downloads, better coverage, and improved communication. Alongside, built-in satellite messaging and SOS keep users connected off-grid.
Apple is also pushing health innovation. Hypertension notifications can detect early signs of high blood pressure, while a new Sleep Score rates nightly rest quality. These join ECG, blood oxygen, and apnea alerts.
On fitness, Workout Buddy powered by Apple Intelligence delivers real-time coaching and motivation. Advanced GPS tracking, swimming metrics, cycling support, and dive computer functionality strengthen its sports credentials.
How the Two Watches Differ?
While both watches focus on safety, health, and adventure, the approach is distinct:
- Garmin fēnix 8 Pro emphasizes rugged exploration with MicroLED visibility, extended battery, and global SOS via Garmin Response.
- Apple Watch Ultra 3 balances adventure with smart health features and 5G power, making it both a fitness coach and daily-use companion.
Garmin aims at explorers who spend weeks outdoors, while Apple is targeting users who want a mix of adventure, fitness, and health monitoring with deep iPhone integration.
Price and Availability
Garmin fēnix 8 Pro starts at $1,199.99 (₹99,600) and the MicroLED version costs $1,999.99 (₹1,66,000). In India, Apple Watch Ultra 3 starts at ₹89,900.
