Garmin has just announced its latest smartwatch in the form of the Venu X1.
We gave the Apple Watch Series 10 a near-perfect 4.5-star rating, so we’re keen to see how the Garmin Venu X1 compares. Is one smartwatch better suited for you than the other?
While we haven’t reviewed the Garmin Venu X1 yet, we’ve highlighted the key differences between it and the Apple Watch Series 10 based on paper right here.
Otherwise, be sure to visit our roundups of the best smartwatch, best Apple Watch and best Garmin watch to get a better idea of what Garmin is up against.
Price and Availability
At the time of writing, Garmin has only confirmed that the Venu X1 will be available to order from 18th June 2025, although it’s not clear whether this is when the watch will start shipping. With an RRP of £679.99, it’s a pricier smartwatch, more in line with the Apple Watch Ultra 2.
On the other hand, the Apple Watch Series 10 has a starting RRP of £399/$399 with an aluminium finish or £699/$699 for the titanium finish.
Apple Watch Series 10 is available in two sizes
Both the Venu X1 and Apple Watch Series 10 promise to be their respective brands’ “thinnest” wearables to date. While the Venu X1 has a depth of 7.9m and weighs just 40g (including the Comfort Fit band), the Apple Watch Series 10 measures in at 9.7mm and 29-35g.
The bigger difference is that the Apple Watch is available in two sizes. Both the smaller 42mm and 46mm models measure in at 9.7mm thick, although we still found the smartwatch to be “comfy to wear”. Not only is the Apple Watch Series 10 available in two sizes, but it’s also available in a choice between two materials: aluminium and titanium.
The Venu X1, on the other hand, is only available with a titanium finish, which is stronger and more durable than aluminium.
Garmin Venu X1
Apple Watch Series 10
Garmin Venu X1 has a longer battery life
Most of the best Garmin watches typically boast some of the best battery life found in wearables, and the Venu X1 promises to be no exception. While in smartwatch mode, Garmin promises users can expect up to eight days of battery life, and in Battery Saver Smartwatch mode, you can see up to eleven days of battery life.
The Apple Watch Series 10 falters in comparison. In fact, you can expect up to just 18 hours with normal use or up to 36 hours when Low Power Mode is engaged. Considering the Apple Watch Series 10 features new sleep tracking modes (which we’ll delve into later), the fact that it can’t last a full day means you may miss out on some data.
Apple Watch Series 10 has sleep apnoea detection
The Apple Watch Series 10 is fitted with numerous sleep tracking tools, including a dedicated Sleep app which details your sleep stages.
Not only that, but there’s also clever sleep apnoea detection. As Apple claims 80% of sleep apnoea cases are undiagnosed, this Apple Watch tool notifies users if signs of sleep apnoea are detected. You’ll then receive a report to provide to your doctor.
While the Venu X1 doesn’t have a sleep apnoea detection tool, it does include numerous sleep tracking features. Users will receive a Sleep Score, which details how well-rested they are, and, with the help of the built-in Sleep Coach, they can also receive personalised insights and advice.
Apple Watch Series 10 has gesture control
To prevent needing to constantly tap the display to control your device, the Apple Watch Series 10 is fitted with a double-tap gesture. Simply double-tap your index finger and thumb of your watch-wearing hand together, and you can engage various shortcuts, such as music controls, answering a phone call, and more.
Garmin Venu X1 is compatible with Android smartphones
This could easily be one of the main deciding factors between the two wearables. While the Garmin Venu X1 series is compatible with both iPhones and Androids, the Apple Watch Series 10 only works with iPhone Xs or later models that run on iOS 18.
If you’re already integrated within Apple’s ecosystem, then all your tools and data will be synced across your devices, including the Apple Watch Series 10. This includes some of the most-used iPhone apps, including Calendar, Mail, Weather and Find My.
The Venu X1, on the other hand, is more flexible and allows you to receive emails, texts and alerts on your Venu X1 when paired with any smartphone. Even so, Android users will benefit from a few additional features.
For example, if someone sends you a photo, then you can view it directly on your watch’s screen. You can also use the keyboard to send quick text responses, although this is also possible if you use the Garmin Messenger app.
Early Verdict
Although we haven’t reviewed the Garmin Venu X1 yet, if you’re an Android user and debating between that and the Apple Watch Series 10, then the decision has been made for you.
Otherwise, both smartwatches offer something different depending on your personal preferences.
