Apple Watch Series 11 (42mm) vs Garmin Instinct 3 AMOLED (45mm)
With only $50 separating them, the Apple Watch Series 11 (42mm) and the Garmin Instinct 3 AMOLED (45mm) are worth comparing spec-for-spec rather than by price alone.
The Apple Watch Series 11 (42mm) packs a 1.77" display, 1 day of typical battery life, built-in GPS, 50m water resistance.
Global reference price
The Garmin Instinct 3 AMOLED (45mm) is built around a 1.2" display, 18 days of typical battery life, built-in GPS.
Global reference price
Specification Comparison
Key Differences
With 18 days of battery life against 1, the Garmin Instinct 3 AMOLED (45mm) demands far less charging upkeep than the Apple Watch Series 11 (42mm). The Apple Watch Series 11 (42mm) has a visibly larger display (1.77" vs 1.2"), an advantage for reading data on the move.
Pros & Cons
Apple Watch Series 11 (42mm)
Pros
- Larger 1.77" display
- Lower price
- Built-in GPS
Cons
- Shorter battery life (1 days)
Garmin Instinct 3 AMOLED (45mm)
Pros
- Much longer battery life (18 days)
- Built-in GPS
Cons
- Smaller 1.2" display
- Costs a bit more
Which One Is Right For You?
- Apple Watch Series 11 (42mm): Makes the most sense for anyone who prefers a larger, easier-to-read display and wants to spend a little less.
- Garmin Instinct 3 AMOLED (45mm): Best for someone who wants to charge as infrequently as possible.
Conclusion
The two trade advantages on different fronts rather than one clearly beating the other outright, so the better fit depends on what matters most for daily wear.
Summary
Apple Watch Series 11 (42mm)
Strengths
- Larger 1.77" display
- Lower price
- Built-in GPS
Weaknesses
- Shorter battery life (1 days)
Garmin Instinct 3 AMOLED (45mm)
Strengths
- Much longer battery life (18 days)
- Built-in GPS
Weaknesses
- Smaller 1.2" display
- Costs a bit more
Weigh the tradeoffs above against actual use: battery life, screen size, and connectivity matter differently depending on how the watch will be worn day to day.