The online retailer’s latest savings event is dropping prices on some of our favorite models.
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Whether you’re just starting and looking for something basic or are hunting for a wearable with advanced insights, a running watch can make all the difference in your training. This weekend is rounding out the last days of Amazon’s Big Spring Sale (the savings event ends March 25), and fortunately, there's a handful of editor-approved Garmin watches on sale. We're seeing discounts of up to 45 percent off, but only for a limited time.
The brand has a wide range of offerings, with watches featuring top-of-the-line tech and access to detailed insights into activity and recovery. Garmin's watches connect to the brand’s GPS, letting you easily track your distances on runs, walks, hikes, swims, and more. We'll dive into details below, but one of the major benefits of a Garmin watch is the long-lasting battery life, letting you keep the watch on to track sleep and recovery while only charging once a week or so.
If you’re looking for a premium model, we’d recommend the Garmin 945. For those not interested in the top tech specs or who are simply looking for something more budget-friendly, the vivoactive 4s and Venu are smart buys that are seeing some of the steeper discounts right now.
These deals aren’t set to last past the weekend, and a handful of Garmin watches are already out of stock. We’re breaking down what you need to know about the on-sale models below:
1
Best for Advanced Runners
Garmin Forerunner 945 Premium GPS Running Smartwatch
1
Best for Advanced Runners
Garmin Forerunner 945 Premium GPS Running Smartwatch
Now 37% Off
One of Garmin’s top-of-the-line models, the 945 Premium has you covered for short-distance, long-distance, and even triathlon training. The battery lasts up to two weeks in smartwatch mode (in GPS mode, you’ll have up to 36 hours).
You can use the watch to make new maps of your running routes and it comes stacked with classic smartwatch capabilities (heart rate, recovery time, etc.). You’ll also have access to Garmin Pay for touchless payment (comparable to Apple Pay for iPhone users).
2
Best for Beginners
Garmin Forerunner 245 GPS Running Smartwatch
For anyone just breaking into the world of wearables, the Forerunner 245 is a great place to start. The watch has a battery life of up to a week in smartwatch mode and up to 24 hours in GPS mode. You’ll have access to training stats like ground contact time, balance, stride length, and more.
It’s a mid-level watch that comes in at a mid-level price. It’s under $225 on sale now, so it’s a reasonably priced option for beginners.
3
Most Durable
Garmin Instinct Rugged Outdoor GPS Watch
If your summer is filled with both runs and hikes, the Instinct is a durable, rugged watch that you don’t have to worry about getting dinged up. The wearable is shockproof, waterproof, and has Glonass and Galileo navigation technology for accurate tracking wherever the trails have taken you.
The watch features a trackback feature that can help you return to your starting point if you lose your way. The battery will last up to 40 hours in Ultratrac battery saver mode and up to two weeks in smartwatch mode. You’ll also get up to 16 hours in GPS mode.
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4
Touchscreen Capabilities
Garmin Venu GPS Smartwatch
The touchscreen AMOLED display of the Venu gives the watch an elevated feel, even though it falls at a mid-level price for the brand. Smartwatch mode will get you up to five days of battery (but up to 6 hours in GPS or music mode).
You can download music directly to the watch so you can go completely hands-free when you head out for your run. It’s an easy, all-day wear accessory that tracks all activities from running to Pilates, and you can even check out workouts right on your watch face.
5
Entry-Level Activity Tracker
Garmin vivoactive 4S GPS Smartwatch
The vivoactive is a true entry-level watch that’s priced under $200. You can get easy-to-follow workouts on your watch screen, and track your activity, menstrual cycle, sleep, hydration, and more. The battery will last up to a week on a single charge in smartwatch mode and up to five hours in GPS or music mode.
Speaking of music, you can download your playlists directly to the watch for accessibility while you’re not near your phone. The design separates the wearable from the rest of Garmin’s more rugged lineup, but you’ll still get a high-tech pick for a reasonable price.
Ellen McAlpine
Commerce Editor
Ellen McAlpine is a commerce editor and writer at Hearst Magazines, covering tech, fitness, lifestyle, and beyond. In her time as a writer, she’s covered everything from top tech items like running watches and ring lights to phone cases and beauty tools.
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