Garmin Forerunner 970 vs Apple Watch Ultra 3
Same money, opposite priorities: Garmin's ultimate running computer or Apple's do-everything adventure watch.
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Our test scores
9.4 / 10
Garmin Forerunner 970
8.2 / 10
Apple Watch Ultra 3
Side by side
| Garmin Forerunner 970 | Apple Watch Ultra 3 | |
|---|---|---|
| Price | $764 | $768 |
| Display | 1.4" AMOLED | 2.13" OLED, 3000 nits |
| GPS | Multi-band GNSS | Precision dual-frequency |
| Battery | 29 hours GPS | 42 hours GPS |
| Sensors | HR, ECG, SpO2, temperature | — |
| Water Resistance | 5 ATM | 100m + EN13319 |
| Chip | — | S10 |
Garmin Forerunner 970
- Industry-leading GPS accuracy
- Medically-certified ECG
- 60+ sport modes
- Unique training metrics
- Premium pricing
- Complex interface for beginners
- Bulky for small wrists
Apple Watch Ultra 3
- Precision dual-frequency GPS
- Apple Intelligence coaching
- Track detection (industry first)
- 3,000-nit display
- Premium pricing
- 42-hour GPS battery trails competitors
- Requires iPhone
Which should you buy?
Choose the Garmin Forerunner 970 if
- Serious runners
- Triathletes
- Data-driven athletes
Skip it if
- Casual fitness users
- Budget shoppers
Choose the Apple Watch Ultra 3 if
- Apple ecosystem athletes
- Trail runners
- Triathletes
Skip it if
- Android users
- Multi-day expedition needs