{"id":275203,"date":"2025-07-19T16:53:15","date_gmt":"2025-07-19T16:53:15","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.europesays.com\/uk\/275203\/"},"modified":"2025-07-19T16:53:15","modified_gmt":"2025-07-19T16:53:15","slug":"garmin-venu-x1-review-apples-latest-rival","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.europesays.com\/uk\/275203\/","title":{"rendered":"Garmin Venu X1 review: Apple&#8217;s latest rival"},"content":{"rendered":"<p data-journey-content=\"true\" data-node-id=\"0\" class=\"css-1shc87h emevuu60\"><strong data-node-id=\"0.0\">RW<\/strong><strong data-node-id=\"0.1\"> verdict: <\/strong>Garmin&#8217;s most lifestyle-friendly running watch yet, the Venu X1 pairs a premium AMOLED display with powerful training features and full-colour mapping. It\u2019s not built for extreme multi-day ultras, but for most runners and adventurers, it strikes the ideal balance between smartwatch-style and <a href=\"https:\/\/www.runnersworld.com\/uk\/gear\/tech\/a30513694\/best-running-watches\/\" target=\"_blank\" data-vars-ga-outbound-link=\"https:\/\/www.runnersworld.com\/uk\/gear\/tech\/a30513694\/best-running-watches\/\" data-vars-ga-ux-element=\"Hyperlink\" data-vars-ga-call-to-action=\"running watch\" data-node-id=\"0.3\" class=\"body-link css-b8iqzl emevuu60\" rel=\"noopener\">running watch<\/a> smarts. <\/p>\n<p>Garmin Venu X1<\/p>\n<p><a target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\" data-theme-key=\"base-link\" href=\"https:\/\/www.amazon.co.uk\/Garmin-smartwatch-flashlight-Lightweight-ComfortFit\/dp\/B0FCYL9TPT?tag=runnersworld.co.uk-21\" aria-label=\"\u00a3679 at Amazon for Garmin Venu X1\" data-href=\"https:\/\/www.amazon.co.uk\/Garmin-smartwatch-flashlight-Lightweight-ComfortFit\/dp\/B0FCYL9TPT\" data-product-url=\"https:\/\/www.amazon.co.uk\/Garmin-smartwatch-flashlight-Lightweight-ComfortFit\/dp\/B0FCYL9TPT\" data-affiliate=\"true\" data-affiliate-url=\"https:\/\/www.amazon.co.uk\/Garmin-smartwatch-flashlight-Lightweight-ComfortFit\/dp\/B0FCYL9TPT?tag=runnersworld.co.uk-21\" data-affiliate-network=\"{&quot;afflink_redirect&quot;:&quot;\/_p\/afflink\/wcPT\/amazon-garmin-venu-x1&quot;,&quot;site_id&quot;:&quot;c91c7c9d-f32f-4a0e-85a6-41c49b9e34ef&quot;,&quot;network&quot;:{&quot;name&quot;:&quot;Amazon&quot;},&quot;metadata&quot;:{&quot;links&quot;:{&quot;default&quot;:&quot;https:\/\/www.amazon.co.uk\/Garmin-smartwatch-flashlight-Lightweight-ComfortFit\/dp\/B0FCYL9TPT?tag=runnersworld.co.uk-21&quot;,&quot;sem&quot;:&quot;https:\/\/www.amazon.co.uk\/Garmin-smartwatch-flashlight-Lightweight-ComfortFit\/dp\/B0FCYL9TPT?tag=runnersworld.co.uk-lift-21&quot;,&quot;social&quot;:&quot;https:\/\/www.amazon.co.uk\/Garmin-smartwatch-flashlight-Lightweight-ComfortFit\/dp\/B0FCYL9TPT?tag=runnersworld.co.uk-soc-lift-21&quot;}}}\" data-vars-ga-call-to-action=\"\u00a3679 at Amazon\" data-vars-ga-media-role=\"\" data-vars-ga-media-type=\"Single Product Embed\" data-vars-ga-outbound-link=\"https:\/\/www.amazon.co.uk\/Garmin-smartwatch-flashlight-Lightweight-ComfortFit\/dp\/B0FCYL9TPT\" data-vars-ga-product-id=\"256b8e2a-ce25-4ee4-98a5-05117bf356a7\" data-vars-ga-product-price=\"\u00a3679.00\" data-vars-ga-product-retailer-id=\"ed484e66-c2f9-4774-9616-733443d2ad31\" data-vars-ga-link-treatment=\"(not set) | (not set)\" class=\"product-image-link ebgq4gw2 e1b8bpvs0 css-g6od0w e1c1bym14\"><img  alt=\"Garmin Venu X1\" title=\"Garmin Venu X1\" src=\"https:\/\/www.europesays.com\/uk\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/07\/1752663587-garmin-venu-x1-badge-68778581d15a4.jpg\" width=\"980\" height=\"980\" decoding=\"async\" loading=\"lazy\"\/><\/a>Cons<\/p>\n<ul class=\"css-17sveza el16ixo4\">\n<li class=\"css-4kwcq1 el16ixo2\"><img decoding=\"async\" data-dynamic-svg=\"true\" src=\"https:\/\/www.runnersworld.com\/_assets\/design-tokens\/fre\/static\/icons\/x-circle.32fa08e.svg?primary=%2523ff7d46\" loading=\"lazy\" data-testid=\"dynamic-svg-base\" height=\"auto\" width=\"auto\" alt=\"Con\" role=\"img\" title=\"Con\" class=\"css-23kqqm el16ixo0\"\/>Battery life not suitable for ultrarunners<\/li>\n<li class=\"css-4kwcq1 el16ixo2\"><img decoding=\"async\" data-dynamic-svg=\"true\" src=\"https:\/\/www.runnersworld.com\/_assets\/design-tokens\/fre\/static\/icons\/x-circle.32fa08e.svg?primary=%2523ff7d46\" loading=\"lazy\" data-testid=\"dynamic-svg-base\" height=\"auto\" width=\"auto\" alt=\"Con\" role=\"img\" title=\"Con\" class=\"css-23kqqm el16ixo0\"\/>No Multi-Band GPS<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<tr data-theme-key=\"embedded-product-key-specs-line\" class=\"css-0 elexcwx2\">Size<\/p>\n<td data-theme-key=\"embedded-product-key-specs-value-item\" class=\"css-1uvs5ob elexcwx1\">51mm<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr data-theme-key=\"embedded-product-key-specs-line\" class=\"css-0 elexcwx2\">Display size\/type<\/p>\n<td data-theme-key=\"embedded-product-key-specs-value-item\" class=\"css-1uvs5ob elexcwx1\">2&#8243;\/AMOLED<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr data-theme-key=\"embedded-product-key-specs-line\" class=\"css-0 elexcwx2\">GPS<\/p>\n<td data-theme-key=\"embedded-product-key-specs-value-item\" class=\"css-1uvs5ob elexcwx1\">Yes (multi-band)<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr data-theme-key=\"embedded-product-key-specs-line\" class=\"css-0 elexcwx2\">Battery life (smartwatch)<\/p>\n<td data-theme-key=\"embedded-product-key-specs-value-item\" class=\"css-1uvs5ob elexcwx1\">Up to 8 days<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr data-theme-key=\"embedded-product-key-specs-line\" class=\"css-0 elexcwx2\">Battery life (GPS)<\/p>\n<td data-theme-key=\"embedded-product-key-specs-value-item\" class=\"css-1uvs5ob elexcwx1\">Up to 16 hours (depending on GPS type)<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr data-theme-key=\"embedded-product-key-specs-line\" class=\"css-0 elexcwx2\">Water rating<\/p>\n<td data-theme-key=\"embedded-product-key-specs-value-item\" class=\"css-1uvs5ob elexcwx1\">5ATM<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<p data-journey-content=\"true\" data-node-id=\"3\" class=\"css-1shc87h emevuu60\">While Garmin has long led the way on running features, it\u2019s often lagged behind Apple in smartwatch stakes \u2013 particularly when it comes to blending those features into a sleeker, more lifestyle-friendly design. The <a href=\"https:\/\/www.runnersworld.com\/uk\/gear\/tech\/a45336634\/garmin-venu-3\/\" target=\"_blank\" data-vars-ga-outbound-link=\"https:\/\/www.runnersworld.com\/uk\/gear\/tech\/a45336634\/garmin-venu-3\/\" data-vars-ga-ux-element=\"Hyperlink\" data-vars-ga-call-to-action=\"Venu 3\" data-node-id=\"3.1\" class=\"body-link css-b8iqzl emevuu60\" rel=\"noopener\">Venu 3<\/a>, which rivals the <a href=\"https:\/\/www.runnersworld.com\/uk\/gear\/tech\/a62690175\/apple-watch-series-10-review\/\" target=\"_blank\" data-vars-ga-outbound-link=\"https:\/\/www.runnersworld.com\/uk\/gear\/tech\/a62690175\/apple-watch-series-10-review\/\" data-vars-ga-ux-element=\"Hyperlink\" data-vars-ga-call-to-action=\"Apple Watch Series 10\" data-node-id=\"3.3\" class=\"body-link css-b8iqzl emevuu60\" rel=\"noopener\">Apple Watch Series 10<\/a>, came close. However, on the more adventure-ready side of things, even the feature-packed <a href=\"https:\/\/www.runnersworld.com\/uk\/gear\/tech\/a62481867\/garmin-fenix-8-review\/\" target=\"_blank\" data-vars-ga-outbound-link=\"https:\/\/www.runnersworld.com\/uk\/gear\/tech\/a62481867\/garmin-fenix-8-review\/\" data-vars-ga-ux-element=\"Hyperlink\" data-vars-ga-call-to-action=\"Fenix 8\" data-node-id=\"3.5\" class=\"body-link css-b8iqzl emevuu60\" rel=\"noopener\">Fenix 8<\/a> \u2013 complete with Garmin\u2019s full kitchen sink \u2013 isn\u2019t really playing in the same style league. You could wear an Ultra 2 to the office and a race, but can you say the same about a Fenix?<\/p>\n<p data-journey-content=\"true\" data-node-id=\"4\" class=\"body-text css-1shc87h emevuu60\">The all-new Garmin Venu X1, then, is an exciting addition to <a href=\"https:\/\/www.runnersworld.com\/uk\/gear\/tech\/g43618678\/best-garmin-watches\/\" target=\"_blank\" data-vars-ga-outbound-link=\"https:\/\/www.runnersworld.com\/uk\/gear\/tech\/g43618678\/best-garmin-watches\/\" data-vars-ga-ux-element=\"Hyperlink\" data-vars-ga-call-to-action=\"Garmin&#039;s line-up\" data-node-id=\"4.1\" class=\"body-link css-b8iqzl emevuu60\" rel=\"noopener\">Garmin&#8217;s line-up<\/a>, featuring a stunning 2-inch AMOLED display, some serious running tech and full colour, built-in mapping. I\u2019ve been living and training with the watch over the past six weeks, putting it to the test on a 100km <a href=\"https:\/\/www.runnersworld.com\/uk\/training\/ultra\/a44426743\/ultra-marathon\/\" target=\"_blank\" data-vars-ga-outbound-link=\"https:\/\/www.runnersworld.com\/uk\/training\/ultra\/a44426743\/ultra-marathon\/\" data-vars-ga-ux-element=\"Hyperlink\" data-vars-ga-call-to-action=\"ultramarathon\" data-node-id=\"4.3\" class=\"body-link css-b8iqzl emevuu60\" rel=\"noopener\">ultramarathon<\/a> and <a href=\"https:\/\/www.runnersworld.com\/uk\/gear\/shoes\/g44137487\/best-walking-boots\/\" target=\"_blank\" data-vars-ga-outbound-link=\"https:\/\/www.runnersworld.com\/uk\/gear\/shoes\/g44137487\/best-walking-boots\/\" data-vars-ga-ux-element=\"Hyperlink\" data-vars-ga-call-to-action=\"hiking\" data-node-id=\"4.5\" class=\"body-link css-b8iqzl emevuu60\" rel=\"noopener\">hiking<\/a> in Slovenia\u2019s Julian Alps. Here\u2019s my verdict.<\/p>\n<p>Design<\/p>\n<p data-journey-content=\"true\" data-node-id=\"11\" class=\"css-1shc87h emevuu60\">The Venu X1 packs the largest screen of any Garmin watch yet, with a 2-inch square AMOLED display, protected by a scratch-resistant sapphire lens, framed in a titanium case. You can choose between the Black or Moss (green) case, which both come with a matching ComfortFit Nylon band. I tested the black model, which looks very nice on my wrist, but I&#8217;d personally like to see some lighter case options (e.g. white, silver or gold) released further down the line \u2013 especially if Garmin is serious about going down the smartwatch route. I found the Nylon strap to be sweat wicking for the most part, save for after sweaty summer <a href=\"https:\/\/www.runnersworld.com\/uk\/gear\/tech\/a31697838\/best-treadmills-runners\/\" target=\"_blank\" data-vars-ga-outbound-link=\"https:\/\/www.runnersworld.com\/uk\/gear\/tech\/a31697838\/best-treadmills-runners\/\" data-vars-ga-ux-element=\"Hyperlink\" data-vars-ga-call-to-action=\"treadmill\" data-node-id=\"11.1\" class=\"body-link css-b8iqzl emevuu60\" rel=\"noopener\">treadmill<\/a> sessions where it got so damp I had to leave it off to dry after.<\/p>\n<p data-journey-content=\"true\" data-node-id=\"12\" class=\"css-1shc87h emevuu60\">The Venu X1 measures just 8mm thick and weighs 34g (without a strap), borrowing the rectangular shape and rounded corners of the older Venu 2, but with a much sleeker, premium finish. For context, the Apple Watch Ultra 2 measures 14.4mm thick, weighs 61.4g and boasts a 1.92-inch display. The Venu X1 certainly feels much lighter on the wrist in comparison, and it hasn&#8217;t felt cumbersome when I&#8217;ve been going about my day-to-day life or even when sleeping.<\/p>\n<p><img alt=\"smartwatch displaying time and fitness metrics\" title=\"smartwatch displaying time and fitness metrics\" loading=\"lazy\" width=\"4032\" height=\"2551\" decoding=\"async\" data-nimg=\"1\" style=\"color:transparent;width:100%;height:auto;\"   src=\"https:\/\/www.europesays.com\/uk\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/07\/garmin-venu-x1-design-68778d2e13c76.jpg\" class=\"css-0 e1g79fud0\"\/><\/p>\n<p data-journey-content=\"true\" data-node-id=\"14\" class=\"css-1shc87h emevuu60\">In a further effort to prove Garmin can corner the smartwatch market, you can choose from different watch faces and change the font size for easy readability \u2013 though there\u2019s arguably still less choice than Apple offers.<\/p>\n<p data-journey-content=\"true\" data-node-id=\"15\" class=\"css-1shc87h emevuu60\">In terms of controls, the Venu X1 operates via a touchscreen, though there are two physical buttons on the right-hand side (much like the Ultra 2) should you need them. I&#8217;ve found I only really use the top right button for starting and pausing an activity. Otherwise, the touchscreen caters for all of my needs, enabling me to easily navigate through training and recovery insights (more on these below), notifications, weather alerts and other settings.<\/p>\n<p><strong data-node-id=\"16.0\">Features<\/strong><\/p>\n<p data-journey-content=\"true\" data-node-id=\"17\" class=\"css-1shc87h emevuu60\">The Venu X1 comes preloaded with 100+ sports, including Running, Golf, Strength Training and Hike. For runners, you can get even more specific with Track Run, Treadmill, Trail Run and Ultra Run.  <\/p>\n<p data-journey-content=\"true\" data-node-id=\"18\" class=\"css-1shc87h emevuu60\">You can access Garmin Coach plans for running, strength and cycling, alongside Garmin\u2019s most advanced training insights, including Training Readiness, Training Status, Endurance Score, Hill Score, Running Power, Race Predictor and a plethora of running metrics within the Garmin app, from <a href=\"https:\/\/www.runnersworld.com\/uk\/training\/beginners\/a772845\/a-beginners-guide-to-cadence\/\" target=\"_blank\" data-vars-ga-outbound-link=\"https:\/\/www.runnersworld.com\/uk\/training\/beginners\/a772845\/a-beginners-guide-to-cadence\/\" data-vars-ga-ux-element=\"Hyperlink\" data-vars-ga-call-to-action=\"cadence\" data-node-id=\"18.1\" class=\"body-link css-b8iqzl emevuu60\" rel=\"noopener\"><strong data-node-id=\"18.1.0\">cadence<\/strong><\/a> to ground contact time. The Venu X1 even packs in Garmin\u2019s Pacepro tool, with GPS-based pace guidance for selected courses or distances, and Climbpro for real-time information on upcoming climbs.<\/p>\n<p data-journey-content=\"true\" data-node-id=\"19\" class=\"css-1shc87h emevuu60\">When it comes to health, you get Garmin\u2019s 24\/7 suite of health monitoring features. That includes Body Battery, Sleep Coach, Morning Report, <a href=\"https:\/\/www.runnersworld.com\/uk\/training\/motivation\/a62460749\/sophie-raworth-heart-rate-variability\/\" target=\"_blank\" data-vars-ga-outbound-link=\"https:\/\/www.runnersworld.com\/uk\/training\/motivation\/a62460749\/sophie-raworth-heart-rate-variability\/\" data-vars-ga-ux-element=\"Hyperlink\" data-vars-ga-call-to-action=\"HRV status\" data-node-id=\"19.1\" class=\"body-link css-b8iqzl emevuu60\" rel=\"noopener\"><strong data-node-id=\"19.1.0\">HRV status<\/strong><\/a> and heart rate monitoring, stress tracking, a blood oxygen sensor, altitude and heat acclimation, and even jet lag advisor \u2014 pretty neat.<\/p>\n<p><img alt=\"a smartwatch displaying hill scores\" title=\"a smartwatch displaying hill scores\" loading=\"lazy\" width=\"4032\" height=\"2551\" decoding=\"async\" data-nimg=\"1\" style=\"color:transparent;width:100%;height:auto;\"   src=\"https:\/\/www.europesays.com\/uk\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/07\/garmin-venux1-hillscore-68778faf69191.jpg\" class=\"css-0 e1g79fud0\"\/><\/p>\n<p>Garmin\u2019s Hill Score feature is reserved for its more premium watches.<\/p>\n<p data-journey-content=\"true\" data-node-id=\"21\" class=\"css-1shc87h emevuu60\">In terms of running functionality, the Venu X1 packs in some seriously handy features that Apple still hasn\u2019t mastered. Take navigation, for example. The Ultra 2 relies on third-party apps for uploading and exporting GPX routes, whereas the Venu X1 benefits from full-colour, built-in mapping, with an altimeter, barometer and 3-axis electronic compass providing precise navigation. In my opinion, this is a big draw over the Apple Watch for trail runners and adventurers.<\/p>\n<p data-journey-content=\"true\" data-node-id=\"22\" class=\"css-1shc87h emevuu60\">I took on Race to the King 100km at the start of June wearing the Venu X1 and downloaded the race&#8217;s GPX file onto the watch to follow along. To be fair, the course was so well marked that I hardly needed the route loaded, but it still gave me peace of mind to know that I was on course. I also downloaded hiking routes from AllTrails while holidaying in Slovenia, with the full-colour maps making it a lot easier to follow along without having to constantly check my smartphone.<\/p>\n<p><img alt=\"a person wearing a colourful square smartwatch while hiking\" title=\"a person wearing a colourful square smartwatch while hiking\" loading=\"lazy\" width=\"4032\" height=\"2551\" decoding=\"async\" data-nimg=\"1\" style=\"color:transparent;width:100%;height:auto;\"   src=\"https:\/\/www.europesays.com\/uk\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/07\/garmin-venu-x1-hiking-6877903fc5389.jpg\" class=\"css-0 e1g79fud0\"\/><\/p>\n<p data-journey-content=\"true\" data-node-id=\"24\" class=\"css-1shc87h emevuu60\">Finally, aiming to nail the smartwatch brief, the Venu X1 features a built-in speaker and microphone, enabling you to make and take calls straight from your wrist. Certain voice commands like \u2018start a running activity\u2019 and \u2018set a timer for 5 minutes\u2019 can be activated right from the watch, you can download songs and playlists from your Spotify, Deezer or Amazon Music accounts, and there&#8217;s even a built-in LED flashlight. Talk about hardcore.<\/p>\n<p><img alt=\"a black smartwatch on its side\" title=\"a black smartwatch on its side\" loading=\"lazy\" width=\"4032\" height=\"2551\" decoding=\"async\" data-nimg=\"1\" style=\"color:transparent;width:100%;height:auto;\"   src=\"https:\/\/www.europesays.com\/uk\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/07\/garmin-venux1-sideon-68779300f1e6c.jpg\" class=\"css-0 e1g79fud0\"\/><strong data-node-id=\"26.0\">Accuracy &amp; battery life<\/strong><\/p>\n<p data-journey-content=\"true\" data-node-id=\"27\" class=\"css-1shc87h emevuu60\">In terms of GPS, the Garmin Venu X1 comes with two primary modes: GPS Only and All Systems for better accuracy. That means there\u2019s no top-tier Multi-Band here, like you&#8217;ll find on the (even) pricier Fenix models. That said, I\u2019ve found All Systems mode to be quick to connect \u2013 even at 2100m in the Julian Alps \u2013 locking to routes well for the most part (see below) and landing well within the margin for error over total distance. If you&#8217;re worried about battery life, you can enable UltraTrac, which is less accurate but means you can go for longer without having to charge.<\/p>\n<p><img alt=\"topographical map showing a hiking trail\" title=\"topographical map showing a hiking trail\" loading=\"lazy\" width=\"1179\" height=\"1600\" decoding=\"async\" data-nimg=\"1\" style=\"color:transparent;width:100%;height:auto;\"   src=\"https:\/\/www.europesays.com\/uk\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/07\/venu-x1-accuracy-687791fa14534.jpg\" class=\"css-0 e1g79fud0\"\/><\/p>\n<p>All-Systems GPS accuracy is mostly accurate, but can sometimes falter in mountainous areas.  <\/p>\n<p data-journey-content=\"true\" data-node-id=\"29\" class=\"css-1shc87h emevuu60\">On that, perhaps the major flex over Apple is the Venu X1\u2019s battery life. On paper, it boasts up to eight days of battery life in smartwatch mode, up to 16 hours in GPS-Only GNSS mode and up to 14 hours in All-Systems GPS. That\u2019s a huge leap on the Apple Watch Ultra 2, which went for around two days with general daily usage between runs in our tests. During my 100km ultra, the Venu X1 lasted for just over 13 hours in All-Systems GPS mode before dying (which was, ironically, the same point at which I DNFd). This is decent, especially for a watch with such a bright display, but it falls just short of the billed 14 hours runtime. If you are taking on a longer endurance race (we\u2019re talking over 10 hours in one stint), I\u2019d opt for the <a href=\"https:\/\/www.amazon.co.uk\/Forerunner%C2%AE-Smartwatch-Flashlight-Translucent-Whitestone-Black\/dp\/B0F8QZ7233?tag=runnersworld.co.uk-21\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\" data-vars-ga-outbound-link=\"https:\/\/www.amazon.co.uk\/Forerunner%C2%AE-Smartwatch-Flashlight-Translucent-Whitestone-Black\/dp\/B0F8QZ7233\" data-vars-ga-ux-element=\"Hyperlink\" data-vars-ga-call-to-action=\"Forerunner 970\" data-vars-ga-product-id=\"a49277d4-6e09-45aa-83c3-c460d1d5d9d4\" data-node-id=\"29.1\" data-href=\"https:\/\/www.amazon.co.uk\/Forerunner%C2%AE-Smartwatch-Flashlight-Translucent-Whitestone-Black\/dp\/B0F8QZ7233\" data-product-url=\"https:\/\/www.amazon.co.uk\/Forerunner%C2%AE-Smartwatch-Flashlight-Translucent-Whitestone-Black\/dp\/B0F8QZ7233\" data-affiliate=\"true\" data-affiliate-url=\"https:\/\/www.amazon.co.uk\/Forerunner%C2%AE-Smartwatch-Flashlight-Translucent-Whitestone-Black\/dp\/B0F8QZ7233?tag=runnersworld.co.uk-21\" data-affiliate-network=\"{&quot;afflink_redirect&quot;:&quot;\/_p\/afflink\/wcQ3\/amazon-placeholder&quot;,&quot;site_id&quot;:&quot;c91c7c9d-f32f-4a0e-85a6-41c49b9e34ef&quot;,&quot;network&quot;:{&quot;name&quot;:&quot;Amazon&quot;},&quot;metadata&quot;:{&quot;links&quot;:{&quot;default&quot;:&quot;https:\/\/www.amazon.co.uk\/Forerunner%C2%AE-Smartwatch-Flashlight-Translucent-Whitestone-Black\/dp\/B0F8QZ7233?tag=runnersworld.co.uk-21&quot;,&quot;sem&quot;:&quot;https:\/\/www.amazon.co.uk\/Forerunner%C2%AE-Smartwatch-Flashlight-Translucent-Whitestone-Black\/dp\/B0F8QZ7233?tag=runnersworld.co.uk-lift-21&quot;,&quot;social&quot;:&quot;https:\/\/www.amazon.co.uk\/Forerunner%C2%AE-Smartwatch-Flashlight-Translucent-Whitestone-Black\/dp\/B0F8QZ7233?tag=runnersworld.co.uk-soc-lift-21&quot;}}}\" data-vars-ga-product-price=\"$0.00\" data-vars-ga-product-retailer-id=\"ea033fc5-fb6b-4090-a51a-0ba78c84843c\" data-vars-ga-link-treatment=\"(not set) | (not set)\" class=\"body-link product-links css-b8iqzl e1aq0z090\">Forerunner 970<\/a>, <a href=\"https:\/\/www.amazon.co.uk\/Garmin-Multisport-Smartwatch-flashlight-Adventure\/dp\/B0DC71V3ZD?tag=runnersworld.co.uk-21\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\" data-vars-ga-outbound-link=\"https:\/\/www.amazon.co.uk\/Garmin-Multisport-Smartwatch-flashlight-Adventure\/dp\/B0DC71V3ZD\" data-vars-ga-ux-element=\"Hyperlink\" data-vars-ga-call-to-action=\"Fenix 8\" data-vars-ga-product-id=\"5ddb7395-bded-4fe1-b55f-579306ecf4e9\" data-node-id=\"29.3\" data-href=\"https:\/\/www.amazon.co.uk\/Garmin-Multisport-Smartwatch-flashlight-Adventure\/dp\/B0DC71V3ZD\" data-product-url=\"https:\/\/www.amazon.co.uk\/Garmin-Multisport-Smartwatch-flashlight-Adventure\/dp\/B0DC71V3ZD\" data-affiliate=\"true\" data-affiliate-url=\"https:\/\/www.amazon.co.uk\/Garmin-Multisport-Smartwatch-flashlight-Adventure\/dp\/B0DC71V3ZD?tag=runnersworld.co.uk-21\" data-affiliate-network=\"{&quot;afflink_redirect&quot;:&quot;\/_p\/afflink\/wcQ1\/amazon-garmin-fenix-8&quot;,&quot;site_id&quot;:&quot;c91c7c9d-f32f-4a0e-85a6-41c49b9e34ef&quot;,&quot;network&quot;:{&quot;name&quot;:&quot;Amazon&quot;},&quot;metadata&quot;:{&quot;links&quot;:{&quot;default&quot;:&quot;https:\/\/www.amazon.co.uk\/Garmin-Multisport-Smartwatch-flashlight-Adventure\/dp\/B0DC71V3ZD?tag=runnersworld.co.uk-21&quot;,&quot;sem&quot;:&quot;https:\/\/www.amazon.co.uk\/Garmin-Multisport-Smartwatch-flashlight-Adventure\/dp\/B0DC71V3ZD?tag=runnersworld.co.uk-lift-21&quot;,&quot;social&quot;:&quot;https:\/\/www.amazon.co.uk\/Garmin-Multisport-Smartwatch-flashlight-Adventure\/dp\/B0DC71V3ZD?tag=runnersworld.co.uk-soc-lift-21&quot;}}}\" data-vars-ga-product-price=\"\u00a3818.00\" data-vars-ga-product-retailer-id=\"08ac8116-836e-4eb1-9c74-3fa2d2a975e6\" data-vars-ga-link-treatment=\"(not set) | (not set)\" class=\"body-link product-links css-b8iqzl e1aq0z090\">Fenix 8<\/a> or <a href=\"https:\/\/www.amazon.co.uk\/Garmin-EnduroTM-Ultraperformance-Smartwatch-Built-Black\/dp\/B0DD5N9G17?tag=runnersworld.co.uk-21\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\" data-vars-ga-outbound-link=\"https:\/\/www.amazon.co.uk\/Garmin-EnduroTM-Ultraperformance-Smartwatch-Built-Black\/dp\/B0DD5N9G17\" data-vars-ga-ux-element=\"Hyperlink\" data-vars-ga-call-to-action=\"Enduro 3\" data-vars-ga-product-id=\"195d2d89-8e21-47db-8013-f6d9a51fb924\" data-node-id=\"29.5\" data-href=\"https:\/\/www.amazon.co.uk\/Garmin-EnduroTM-Ultraperformance-Smartwatch-Built-Black\/dp\/B0DD5N9G17\" data-product-url=\"https:\/\/www.amazon.co.uk\/Garmin-EnduroTM-Ultraperformance-Smartwatch-Built-Black\/dp\/B0DD5N9G17\" data-affiliate=\"true\" data-affiliate-url=\"https:\/\/www.amazon.co.uk\/Garmin-EnduroTM-Ultraperformance-Smartwatch-Built-Black\/dp\/B0DD5N9G17?tag=runnersworld.co.uk-21\" data-affiliate-network=\"{&quot;afflink_redirect&quot;:&quot;\/_p\/afflink\/wcQ2\/amazon-placeholder&quot;,&quot;site_id&quot;:&quot;c91c7c9d-f32f-4a0e-85a6-41c49b9e34ef&quot;,&quot;network&quot;:{&quot;name&quot;:&quot;Amazon&quot;},&quot;metadata&quot;:{&quot;links&quot;:{&quot;default&quot;:&quot;https:\/\/www.amazon.co.uk\/Garmin-EnduroTM-Ultraperformance-Smartwatch-Built-Black\/dp\/B0DD5N9G17?tag=runnersworld.co.uk-21&quot;,&quot;sem&quot;:&quot;https:\/\/www.amazon.co.uk\/Garmin-EnduroTM-Ultraperformance-Smartwatch-Built-Black\/dp\/B0DD5N9G17?tag=runnersworld.co.uk-lift-21&quot;,&quot;social&quot;:&quot;https:\/\/www.amazon.co.uk\/Garmin-EnduroTM-Ultraperformance-Smartwatch-Built-Black\/dp\/B0DD5N9G17?tag=runnersworld.co.uk-soc-lift-21&quot;}}}\" data-vars-ga-product-price=\"$0.00\" data-vars-ga-product-retailer-id=\"b2956a05-10fc-4cf8-a465-60cb97f5d9f6\" data-vars-ga-link-treatment=\"(not set) | (not set)\" class=\"body-link product-links css-b8iqzl e1aq0z090\">Enduro 3<\/a> instead.<\/p>\n<p><img alt=\"a black smartwatch with a colourful display screen\" title=\"a black smartwatch with a colourful display screen\" loading=\"lazy\" width=\"4032\" height=\"2551\" decoding=\"async\" data-nimg=\"1\" style=\"color:transparent;width:100%;height:auto;\"   src=\"https:\/\/www.europesays.com\/uk\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/07\/garmin-venu-x1-birdseye-68778e076bf2b.jpg\" class=\"css-0 e1g79fud0\"\/><\/p>\n<p data-journey-content=\"true\" data-node-id=\"31\" class=\"css-1shc87h emevuu60\">I also put the Venu X1 through its paces on a week-long trip to Slovenia, which included four separate hikes through the Julian Alps (4.5 hours, 4 hours, 1.5 hours and 4 hours-long, respectively), along with three runs (5k, 12k and 10k). I had to charge the watch twice over the course of the week. That\u2019s still miles better than the Apple Watch Ultra, but the Forerunner 970 made it through the entire week without any time on the plug. <\/p>\n<p><strong data-node-id=\"32.0\">RW<\/strong><strong data-node-id=\"32.1\"> verdict<\/strong><\/p>\n<p data-journey-content=\"true\" data-node-id=\"33\" class=\"css-1shc87h emevuu60\">For me, the Venu X1 plugs a real gap in Garmin\u2019s line-up \u2013 finally offering a true smartwatch that blends premium aesthetics with Garmin\u2019s industry-leading fitness and navigation features. It\u2019s the first Garmin watch I\u2019ve worn that genuinely competes with the Apple Watch Ultra 2 in terms of style and smarts \u2013 and, in many ways, surpasses it.<\/p>\n<p data-journey-content=\"true\" data-node-id=\"34\" class=\"css-1shc87h emevuu60\">The lack of Multi-Band GPS might put off hardcore ultra runners, and the battery life won\u2019t stretch to multi-day adventures without a top-up. But for most runners, hikers and outdoor enthusiasts, the combination of full-colour mapping, deep training insights, lightweight design and a bright, beautiful AMOLED display makes this Garmin\u2019s most complete lifestyle watch yet \u2013 if your budget can stretch to the \u00a3679.00 price tag.<\/p>\n<p data-journey-content=\"true\" data-node-id=\"35\" class=\"css-1shc87h emevuu60\">Come the autumn, Apple better have something good up its sleeve \u2013 because Garmin might just have nailed it.<\/p>\n<p data-journey-content=\"true\" data-node-id=\"36\" class=\"css-1shc87h emevuu60\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.amazon.co.uk\/Garmin-smartwatch-flashlight-Lightweight-ComfortFit\/dp\/B0FCYL9TPT?tag=runnersworld.co.uk-21\" target=\"_blank\" data-vars-ga-outbound-link=\"https:\/\/www.amazon.co.uk\/Garmin-smartwatch-flashlight-Lightweight-ComfortFit\/dp\/B0FCYL9TPT\" data-vars-ga-call-to-action=\"Shop the Garmin Venu X1\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\" data-vars-ga-ux-element=\"Hyperlink\" data-vars-ga-product-id=\"9348d61b-1085-4f1e-9e4b-9f9076eef983\" data-node-id=\"36.0\" data-href=\"https:\/\/www.amazon.co.uk\/Garmin-smartwatch-flashlight-Lightweight-ComfortFit\/dp\/B0FCYL9TPT\" data-product-url=\"https:\/\/www.amazon.co.uk\/Garmin-smartwatch-flashlight-Lightweight-ComfortFit\/dp\/B0FCYL9TPT\" data-affiliate=\"true\" data-affiliate-url=\"https:\/\/www.amazon.co.uk\/Garmin-smartwatch-flashlight-Lightweight-ComfortFit\/dp\/B0FCYL9TPT?tag=runnersworld.co.uk-21\" data-affiliate-network=\"{&quot;afflink_redirect&quot;:&quot;\/_p\/afflink\/wcPu\/amazon-garmin-venu-x1&quot;,&quot;site_id&quot;:&quot;c91c7c9d-f32f-4a0e-85a6-41c49b9e34ef&quot;,&quot;network&quot;:{&quot;name&quot;:&quot;Amazon&quot;},&quot;metadata&quot;:{&quot;links&quot;:{&quot;default&quot;:&quot;https:\/\/www.amazon.co.uk\/Garmin-smartwatch-flashlight-Lightweight-ComfortFit\/dp\/B0FCYL9TPT?tag=runnersworld.co.uk-21&quot;,&quot;sem&quot;:&quot;https:\/\/www.amazon.co.uk\/Garmin-smartwatch-flashlight-Lightweight-ComfortFit\/dp\/B0FCYL9TPT?tag=runnersworld.co.uk-lift-21&quot;,&quot;social&quot;:&quot;https:\/\/www.amazon.co.uk\/Garmin-smartwatch-flashlight-Lightweight-ComfortFit\/dp\/B0FCYL9TPT?tag=runnersworld.co.uk-soc-lift-21&quot;}}}\" data-vars-ga-product-price=\"\u00a3679.99\" data-vars-ga-product-retailer-id=\"8e16c05a-8e82-4b62-9a1f-6bbe6efde0f9\" data-vars-ga-link-treatment=\"(not set) | (not set)\" class=\"body-btn-link product-links-button css-1kb95i0 e1aq0z090\">Shop the Garmin Venu X1<\/a><\/p>\n<p>Related Stories<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"RW verdict: Garmin&#8217;s most lifestyle-friendly running watch yet, the Venu X1 pairs a premium AMOLED display with powerful&hellip;\n","protected":false},"author":2,"featured_media":275204,"comment_status":"","ping_status":"","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"footnotes":""},"categories":[3160],"tags":[1685,6188,53,16,15],"class_list":{"0":"post-275203","1":"post","2":"type-post","3":"status-publish","4":"format-standard","5":"has-post-thumbnail","7":"category-gadgets","8":"tag-gadgets","9":"tag-most-popular","10":"tag-technology","11":"tag-uk","12":"tag-united-kingdom"},"share_on_mastodon":{"url":"https:\/\/pubeurope.com\/@uk\/114880946118841596","error":""},"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.europesays.com\/uk\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/275203","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.europesays.com\/uk\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.europesays.com\/uk\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.europesays.com\/uk\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/2"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.europesays.com\/uk\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=275203"}],"version-history":[{"count":0,"href":"https:\/\/www.europesays.com\/uk\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/275203\/revisions"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.europesays.com\/uk\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/275204"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.europesays.com\/uk\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=275203"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.europesays.com\/uk\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=275203"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.europesays.com\/uk\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=275203"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}