As sports watches get smarter and smartwatches get sportier, we move closer to one perfect wearable to rule them all, but there are still notable gaps in performance on each side.

These are highlighted when you compare what I consider the best sports watch available in the Garmin Forerunner 970 to the best sporty smartwatch in the Apple Watch Ultra 3.

Both are great options for athletes and handy for general use, but the Forerunner 970 has some key advantages as a sports watch, while the Apple Watch’s smarts are more useful day-to-day.

I’ve worn both watches extensively, running hundreds of miles using them as well as cycling and doing strength workouts. I’ve also tested them head-to-head by wearing them at the same time. There’s more info on each watch in our Garmin Forerunner 970 revi

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