Garmin vs Amazfit (2026)

In the ever-evolving world of smartwatches, two prominent names stand out: Garmin and Amazfit. Both brands offer feature-rich devices that cater to fitness enthusiasts and tech-savvy users alike. This comparison will focus on the Garmin Venu 3S and the Amazfit Balance, two of their latest models, to help you decide which one might be the best fit for your lifestyle and needs.

Price

The Garmin Venu 3S is priced at USD 389.70, making it a premium option in the smartwatch market. On the other hand, the Amazfit Balance is significantly more affordable, with a price tag of THB 5389.00, which is approximately USD 155. This makes Amazfit a more budget-friendly choice for those looking to save some money without compromising on features.

Speed and Performance

Both devices offer fast performance, but there are some differences in user experience. The Garmin Venu 3S is known for its responsive interface, which makes navigation smooth and intuitive. The Amazfit Balance, while generally quick, has been reported to experience occasional lag, particularly when switching between apps or accessing certain features.

Battery Life

Battery life is a crucial factor for many users, and both watches perform admirably in this regard. The Garmin Venu 3S boasts up to 10 days of battery life in smartwatch mode, which is impressive for a device with an AMOLED display. The Amazfit Balance, however, outshines with up to 14 days of battery life in typical use, making it a great option for those who prefer not to charge their device frequently.

Health Tracking

When it comes to health tracking, both watches offer a wide range of features. The Garmin Venu 3S provides comprehensive metrics, including advanced heart rate monitoring, sleep tracking, and more. The Amazfit Balance also offers extensive health tracking, with additional features like stress monitoring and Amazon Alexa integration, which can be a handy feature for those who use Amazon's ecosystem.

Display and Connectivity

The Garmin Venu 3S features a vibrant AMOLED display that is sharp and clear, making it easy to read in various lighting conditions. The Amazfit Balance's display is also AMOLED but is slightly less vibrant. In terms of connectivity, both devices offer Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, and GPS, but the Amazfit Balance adds NFC, which can be useful for contactless payments.

Special Features

The Garmin Venu 3S includes built-in sports apps and music storage, which are great for fitness enthusiasts who like to track their workouts and listen to music without needing their phone. The Amazfit Balance, however, offers Amazon Alexa built-in, allowing users to interact with the voice assistant directly from their wrist, and integrates seamlessly with Amazon's services.

My Pick

Choosing between the Garmin Venu 3S and the Amazfit Balance ultimately depends on your priorities. If you value a premium feel, a more responsive interface, and advanced health metrics, the Garmin Venu 3S is a solid choice. However, if you're looking for a more affordable option with excellent battery life and smart features like Alexa integration, the Amazfit Balance might be the better pick.

Read full review of Garmin Venu 3S

For a more detailed analysis, check out thefull review of Garmin Venu 3S.