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Garmin Fenix 8 Pro vs. Apple Watch Ultra 3: How I'm deciding between the two smartwatches

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Why This Matters

This comparison highlights the evolving landscape of rugged smartwatches, emphasizing their importance for outdoor enthusiasts, athletes, and those needing durable, feature-rich devices. As these watches become more advanced, consumers gain better options for off-grid connectivity, extended battery life, and superior displays, shaping the future of outdoor and fitness technology.

Key Takeaways

Matthew Miller and Nina Raemont/ZDNET

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Marathon runners and outdoor enthusiasts get the most out of rugged smartwatches like the Apple Watch Ultra 3 or the Garmin Fenix 8 Pro. These smartwatches are a step above your run-of-the-mill activity tracker or classic smartwatch, and they perform better in tougher environments.

While classic, general smartwatches may perform well in most circumstances, like race training in the park with a few days of battery life, rugged smartwatches typically track more workouts, offer weeks-long battery life, and include brighter, highly visible displays. They are also pricier than mainstream watches, making a deals event like Prime Day a convenient time to save on a high-end smartwatch.

Also: Prime Day last chance: Save on these deals before they're gone

The Apple Watch Ultra 3 and Garmin Fenix 8 Pro are similar watches in theory -- and they're both discounted during Amazon Prime Day, which runs until June 26. They're rugged devices with ultra-bright, readable, and vivid screens.

The devices operate in off-grid areas to reach emergency services or send messages when other devices' connectivity might fail. Their audience is the outdoorsy, hyper-athletic, and active type.

Still, the two smartwatches boast important differences. If you're considering both, here's which would work best for you.

Specifications

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