Apple and Garmin each make some of the best smartwatch models you can buy in 2025. While the new Apple Watch Series 11 is the best smartwatch for iPhone users, the rugged and long-lasting Garmin Instinct 3 is my personal favorite wearable for outdoor adventure tracking.

But which one is more accurate when it comes to keeping tabs on basic workouts, like walks and runs? I decided to find out by affixing the Apple Watch Series 11 to my left wrist and the Garmin Instinct 3 to my right wrist, before embarking on an hour-long walk through gorgeous Seattle, Washington.

Read on to find out which smartwatch wins — the Apple Watch 11 or Garmin Instinct 3.

Apple Watch 11 vs Garmin Instinct 3 : Quick comparison

Both devices start at $399 and come in a range of sizes and configurations. The Garmin

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