Verdict
All guidesResearchOpen dataMethodologyAboutContact
Head-to-head · Best Smartwatches

Apple Watch SE 3 vs Garmin Venu 4

Which is the better buy? Side-by-side on rating, price, strengths, and watch-outs — with the published ratings we averaged to get there.

Verdict is reader-supported. As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases. Some links on this page are affiliate links — if you click through and buy, we may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. Our ratings are sourced from independent publications, not sponsors.
The short answer

Garmin Venu 4 comes out ahead by a clear margin (4.2 vs 4.6). The gap is mostly about Serious fitness enthusiasts wanting detailed insights — read the strengths below before deciding.

Apple Watch SE 3
Ranked #6 in Best Smartwatches
Apple Watch SE 3
6 sources2 derived$219as of Aug 22

The Apple Watch SE 3 represents the most improved iteration since the last generation, offering a compelling balance of affordability and functionality. It features an Always-On Retina display, S10 chip, and enhanced speaker capabilities while maintaining the older design aesthetic. While it lacks some advanced health metrics found in higher-tier models, it provides solid performance and is recommended as the go-to option for most users seeking an Apple Watch.

Strengths
  • — Features Always-On Retina display with 1000 nits brightness and 2 nits dimming capability
  • — Powered by S10 chip matching Apple Watch Series 11 for performance and features like on-device Siri
  • — Includes media playback speakers with adjustable volume for on-wrist audio
Watch-outs
  • — Design retains 2018 facelift with thicker bezels and outdated body profile
  • — Limited color options with only Midnight and Starlight available
$219 · Check Price on AmazonFull review →
Garmin Venu 4
Higher ratedRanked #1 in Best Smartwatches
Garmin Venu 4
7 sources$499.99as of Aug 22

The Garmin Venu 4 represents Garmin's strongest attempt to bridge the gap between traditional smartwatches and dedicated sports watches. It offers a polished circular design with advanced fitness and recovery metrics that help users understand how their training metrics impact performance. While it provides comprehensive health tracking including Body Battery and Training Readiness, reviewers noted that the software can feel sluggish and the UI lacks intuitiveness compared to competitors. The watch supports multi-band GPS for accurate tracking and offers week-long battery life in smartwatch mode, making it suitable for serious fitness enthusiasts who want detailed training insights.

Strengths
  • — Polished circular design
  • — Advanced fitness and recovery metrics including Body Battery and Training Readiness
  • — Multi-band GPS for accurate location tracking
Watch-outs
  • — Software can feel sluggish
  • — UI is not as intuitive as other smartwatches
$499.99 · Check Price on AmazonFull review →

Derived means the reviewer published no score, so one was inferred from their written verdict. Everything else is a number the publisher printed. How we rank.

How they stack up

Apple Watch SE 3

The Apple Watch SE 3 offers an updated design and Always-On Retina display, which the Samsung Galaxy Watch Ultra 2 and Apple Watch Series 11 don't match, but it lacks the advanced health features of the Garmin Venu 4 and Apple Watch Ultra 3. While it provides better value than the Apple Watch Series 11, it doesn't offer the same level of smart features as the OnePlus Watch 3 or Xiaomi Watch 5. The Google Pixel Watch 4 offers more battery life but lacks the ecosystem integration that the SE 3 provides.

Garmin Venu 4

The Garmin Venu 4 provides advanced fitness metrics like Body Battery and Training Readiness, which the Samsung Galaxy Watch Ultra 2 and Apple Watch Series 11 don't match, but it lacks the battery life of the OnePlus Watch 3 and Xiaomi Watch 5. While it offers more comprehensive health tracking than the Amazfit Balance 2, it's less user-friendly in terms of UI compared to the Google Pixel Watch 4 and lacks the smart features of the OnePlus Watch 3. The Apple Watch SE 3 offers better value with its updated design and speaker capabilities.

Specs side-by-side

SpecApple Watch SE 3Garmin Venu 4
Display TypeLTPO OLEDAMOLED
Connectivity5GBluetooth
OSwatchOS 26Garmin's newest in-house OS
CompatibilityiPhoneiPhone and Android smartphones
Material100% recycled aluminumSteel case and bezel
Water Resistance50m (swimproof)5 ATM
BatteryBuilt-in rechargeable lithium-ion batteryup to 12 days battery life
Dimensions9.4 x 3 x 1.2 inches45 mm case with metal design
← See the full ranking of best smartwatches