{"id":65517,"date":"2025-07-14T18:18:10","date_gmt":"2025-07-14T18:18:10","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.europesays.com\/us\/65517\/"},"modified":"2025-07-14T18:18:10","modified_gmt":"2025-07-14T18:18:10","slug":"garmin-venu-x1-running-watch-review","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.europesays.com\/us\/65517\/","title":{"rendered":"Garmin Venu X1 Running Watch Review"},"content":{"rendered":"<p data-journey-content=\"true\" data-node-id=\"1\" class=\"css-i9p093 emevuu60\">The  smartwatch market is evolving at breakneck speed, with brands racing to blend cutting-edge fitness features and everyday convenience into ever-sleeker packages. Garmin\u2019s Venu series has long occupied a sweet spot for athletes looking for the brand&#8217;s robust health tracking, but without the bulk and complexity of its elite <a href=\"https:\/\/www.runnersworld.com\/uk\/gear\/tech\/a30513694\/best-running-watches\/\" data-mce-href=\"https:\/\/www.runnersworld.com\/uk\/gear\/tech\/a30513694\/best-running-watches\/\" 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 watches\" data-node-id=\"1.1\" class=\"body-link css-b8iqzl emevuu60\" data-mce- target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">running watches<\/a>. The <a href=\"https:\/\/www.amazon.com\/Lightweight-Smartwatch-Advanced-Features-ComfortFit\/dp\/B0FCYHNL3C\/ref=sr_1_1?tag=runnersworld-auto-20\" data-mce-href=\"https:\/\/www.amazon.com\/Lightweight-Smartwatch-Advanced-Features-ComfortFit\/dp\/B0FCYHNL3C\/ref=sr_1_1?crid=1KXBS0O496M2V&amp;dib=eyJ2IjoiMSJ9.Ic_Kepl1BpcRe0qp_okDxfNpL0S2-yOHHOqix0UUMM_3uMwcCiKCfDiEGa1aiy2cRdzVZUb1ZP9mrrsQEAhRPClPV-Wd3p7IabHIVWzQTs1lkeRqUGwF9cN4BZWNr7Vl2BHKeoCZZNZqy1afJh-avWh1aa5qRBK058EhnOHfm8u__6Wa-8tGiE4-zWWX5Sx9WLEMk9mZ5owMH4Te5BCMGPb-iUZtkA7A7EVA3FEmIWw.dze0odwEpvfAVvkcSvtkq-EqW3IXZO2fM_lV-T1SZII&amp;dib_tag=se&amp;keywords=garmin+venu+x1&amp;qid=1751373969&amp;sprefix=garmin+venu+x%2Caps%2C101&amp;sr=8-1\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\" data-vars-ga-outbound-link=\"https:\/\/www.amazon.com\/Lightweight-Smartwatch-Advanced-Features-ComfortFit\/dp\/B0FCYHNL3C\/ref=sr_1_1\" data-vars-ga-ux-element=\"Hyperlink\" data-vars-ga-call-to-action=\"Garmin Venu X1\" data-vars-ga-product-id=\"f334eca5-3459-4499-bfc9-cea3ffbcb02a\" data-node-id=\"1.3\" data-href=\"https:\/\/www.amazon.com\/Lightweight-Smartwatch-Advanced-Features-ComfortFit\/dp\/B0FCYHNL3C\/ref=sr_1_1\" data-product-url=\"https:\/\/www.amazon.com\/Lightweight-Smartwatch-Advanced-Features-ComfortFit\/dp\/B0FCYHNL3C\/ref=sr_1_1\" data-affiliate=\"true\" data-affiliate-url=\"https:\/\/www.amazon.com\/Lightweight-Smartwatch-Advanced-Features-ComfortFit\/dp\/B0FCYHNL3C\/ref=sr_1_1?tag=runnersworld-auto-20\" data-affiliate-network=\"{&quot;site_id&quot;:&quot;0edc3368-766f-4b81-be22-1eddee521647&quot;,&quot;metadata&quot;:{&quot;links&quot;:{&quot;default&quot;:&quot;https:\/\/www.amazon.com\/Lightweight-Smartwatch-Advanced-Features-ComfortFit\/dp\/B0FCYHNL3C\/ref=sr_1_1?tag=runnersworld-auto-20&quot;,&quot;sem&quot;:&quot;https:\/\/www.amazon.com\/Lightweight-Smartwatch-Advanced-Features-ComfortFit\/dp\/B0FCYHNL3C\/ref=sr_1_1?tag=rw-lift-20&quot;,&quot;social&quot;:&quot;https:\/\/www.amazon.com\/Lightweight-Smartwatch-Advanced-Features-ComfortFit\/dp\/B0FCYHNL3C\/ref=sr_1_1?tag=rw-soc-lift-20&quot;}},&quot;network&quot;:{&quot;name&quot;:&quot;Amazon&quot;},&quot;product_metadata&quot;:null,&quot;afflink_redirect&quot;:&quot;\/_p\/afflink\/w4sB\/amazon-s-lightweight-smartwatch-advanced-features-comfortfit-dp-b0fcyhnl3c-ref-sr-1-1&quot;}\" data-vars-ga-product-price=\"$0.00\" data-vars-ga-product-retailer-id=\"7e9691c5-e9f3-41a2-8c4e-231921338d6f\" data-vars-ga-link-treatment=\"(not set) | (not set)\" class=\"body-link product-links css-b8iqzl e1aq0z090\">Garmin Venu X1<\/a> is easily the brand&#8217;s most successful version to date, satisfying both fitness enthusiasts and style-conscious users who normally wouldn&#8217;t consider anything other than an Apple Watch.<\/p>\n<p>Garmin Venu X1<\/p>\n<p><a target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\" data-theme-key=\"base-link\" href=\"https:\/\/www.amazon.com\/dp\/B0FCYHNL3C?tag=runnersworld-auto-20\" aria-label=\"$800 at Amazon for Venu X1\" data-href=\"https:\/\/www.amazon.com\/dp\/B0FCYHNL3C\" data-product-url=\"https:\/\/www.amazon.com\/dp\/B0FCYHNL3C\" data-affiliate=\"true\" data-affiliate-url=\"https:\/\/www.amazon.com\/dp\/B0FCYHNL3C?tag=runnersworld-auto-20\" data-affiliate-network=\"{&quot;site_id&quot;:&quot;0edc3368-766f-4b81-be22-1eddee521647&quot;,&quot;metadata&quot;:{&quot;links&quot;:{&quot;default&quot;:&quot;https:\/\/www.amazon.com\/dp\/B0FCYHNL3C?tag=runnersworld-auto-20&quot;,&quot;sem&quot;:&quot;https:\/\/www.amazon.com\/dp\/B0FCYHNL3C?tag=rw-lift-20&quot;,&quot;social&quot;:&quot;https:\/\/www.amazon.com\/dp\/B0FCYHNL3C?tag=rw-soc-lift-20&quot;}},&quot;network&quot;:{&quot;name&quot;:&quot;Amazon&quot;},&quot;product_metadata&quot;:null,&quot;afflink_redirect&quot;:&quot;\/_p\/afflink\/w4pZ\/amazon-garmin-r-venu-r-x1-thin-and&quot;}\" data-vars-ga-call-to-action=\"$800 at Amazon\" data-vars-ga-media-role=\"\" data-vars-ga-media-type=\"Single Product Embed\" data-vars-ga-outbound-link=\"https:\/\/www.amazon.com\/dp\/B0FCYHNL3C\" data-vars-ga-product-brand=\"Garmin\" data-vars-ga-product-id=\"6f82625a-6d94-4e7f-8c63-6e311b7ded66\" data-vars-ga-product-price=\"$799.99\" data-vars-ga-product-retailer-id=\"f563d935-245a-4e6c-87a6-c3f5b9e79e9c\" data-vars-ga-product-sem3-brand=\"Garmin\" data-vars-ga-product-sem3-category=\"Smartwatches\" data-vars-ga-link-treatment=\"(not set) | (not set)\" data-vars-ga-sku=\"B0FCYHNL3C\" data-vars-ga-magento-tracking=\"1\" class=\"product-image-link ebgq4gw2 e1b8bpvs0 css-g6od0w e1c1bym14\"><img  alt=\"Venu X1\" title=\"Venu X1\" src=\"https:\/\/www.europesays.com\/us\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/07\/1751386047-71xYhGgtVCL.jpg\" width=\"1600\" height=\"1600\" 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\"\/>Short battery life (especially with always-on display)<\/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 dual-band GPS<\/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\"\/>App ecosystem less robust than Apple\/Google<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>Design and Display <\/p>\n<p data-journey-content=\"true\" data-node-id=\"4\" class=\"body-text css-i9p093 emevuu60\">The Venu X1 is worlds apart from Garmin\u2019s previous round-faced Venu models, introducing a familiar square design with a ginormous 2-inch AMOLED display (448 x 486 pixels) that stretches nearly edge-to-edge. The display is truly the star of the show, here. It&#8217;s super bright and easy to navigate, even in direct sunlight. The optional always-on setting lets you check your time and your stats without raising your arm. (At the expense of your battery, of course). The sheer size and clarity of the display honestly makes my husband\u2019s <a href=\"https:\/\/www.runnersworld.com\/gear\/a41302693\/apple-watch-ultra-tested-review\/\" data-mce-href=\"https:\/\/www.runnersworld.com\/gear\/a41302693\/apple-watch-ultra-tested-review\/\" data-vars-ga-outbound-link=\"https:\/\/www.runnersworld.com\/gear\/a41302693\/apple-watch-ultra-tested-review\/\" data-vars-ga-ux-element=\"Hyperlink\" data-vars-ga-call-to-action=\"Apple Watch Ultra 2\" data-node-id=\"4.1\" class=\"body-link css-b8iqzl emevuu60\" data-mce- target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Apple Watch Ultra 2<\/a> look a little puny in comparison.<\/p>\n<p data-journey-content=\"true\" data-node-id=\"5\" class=\"css-i9p093 emevuu60\">Even with that size, though, the X1 has a thin profile and lightweight build feels light and comfy on your wrist. The watch face is just 7.9mm thick and weighs only 34 grams, making it Garmin\u2019s thinnest watch to date. At the same time, its titanium shell and sapphire crystal lens give it reassuring durability. The device is also water-resistant up to 5 atmospheres (ATM), which means you can strap this baby on and go from the road, to the pool, to your shower and more. <\/p>\n<p data-journey-content=\"true\" data-node-id=\"7\" class=\"css-i9p093 emevuu60\">Likewise, its default fabric band is breathable and you could wear it all day and night without a problem. The quick-release mechanism for the band allows for easy strap swaps and customization. Which, you\u2019ll likely be grateful for because the sport strap is hideous. It\u2019s comfortable as heck, but looks like a belt that soldiers wear with combat fatigues. Why gray, Garmin? Why?<\/p>\n<p>User Interface and Software <\/p>\n<p data-journey-content=\"true\" data-node-id=\"9\" class=\"body-text css-i9p093 emevuu60\">The Venu X1 runs an updated version of Garmin\u2019s proprietary operating system, which mixes the user-friendly flow of its Forerunner and Fenix watches with the style-forward details found in previous Venu models. I found the workflow reasonably intuitive, trading buttons for swipes like its chief rival, Apple.<\/p>\n<p data-journey-content=\"true\" data-node-id=\"10\" class=\"body-text css-i9p093 emevuu60\">The X1&#8217;s two-button layout (upper and lower right) complements the touchscreen, with the upper button serving as an \u201center\u201d or activity portal launcher and the lower as a universal \u201cback\u201d button. Everything else, from launching workouts to customizing data screens, are handled via touchscreen, making the experience feel more like navigating your phone than a standard GPS running watch.  <\/p>\n<p data-journey-content=\"true\" data-node-id=\"11\" class=\"body-text css-i9p093 emevuu60\">Speaking of which, the Garmin Connect companion app returns as the hub for interfacing with your data on your phone, which is critical for data visualization and device management. The app offers a robust dashboard with detailed health and fitness analytics and customizable widgets, but it feels unwieldy compared to similar apps from Apple and other brands. (You have too much on the front page and not enough sticky landing areas, Garmin.)<\/p>\n<p data-journey-content=\"true\" data-node-id=\"12\" class=\"body-text css-i9p093 emevuu60\">Despite improvements over the years, the messy layout and poor integrations hold the X1 (and all of Garmin&#8217;s watches) back a bit. It&#8217;s never stopped me from recommending <a href=\"https:\/\/www.runnersworld.com\/gear\/a36490720\/best-garmin-gps-running-watches\" data-vars-ga-outbound-link=\"https:\/\/www.runnersworld.com\/gear\/a36490720\/best-garmin-gps-running-watches\" data-vars-ga-ux-element=\"Hyperlink\" data-vars-ga-call-to-action=\"Garmin watches\" data-node-id=\"12.1\" class=\"body-link css-b8iqzl emevuu60\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Garmin watches<\/a>, and it doesn&#8217;t make the X1 any less phenomenal, but I&#8217;m still waiting for the day that Garmin&#8217;s software matches the quality of its hardware. <\/p>\n<p>Fitness and Health Tracking <\/p>\n<p data-journey-content=\"true\" data-node-id=\"14\" class=\"css-i9p093 emevuu60\">The Venu X1 covers all the basics: step tracking, 24\/7 heart rate monitoring, and killer GPS for outdoor activities. Heart rate and fitness tracking are pretty freaking accurate, closely matching results from chest straps and other high-end wearables. Its GPS acquisition picks you up quick and stays accurate. Even without the dual-band system Garmin employs on its other high-end watches, it delivered excellent accuracy for running, cycling, and swimming, with consistent route tracking and minimal signal drops.  <\/p>\n<p data-journey-content=\"true\" data-node-id=\"15\" class=\"css-i9p093 emevuu60\">The X1 also sports advanced analytics previously found in higher-end Garmins, including VO2 max, &#8220;Body Battery,&#8221; sleep tracking, HRV (Heart Rate Variability), and blood oxygen saturation monitoring. Adding metrics like &#8220;Training Readiness,&#8221; &#8220;Endurance Score,&#8221; and &#8220;Hill Score&#8221; bring a new level of insight for those serious about training. <\/p>\n<p data-journey-content=\"true\" data-node-id=\"16\" class=\"css-i9p093 emevuu60\">On the recovery side, the X1 has the best sleep monitoring of any Garmin I&#8217;ve tested. It more closely matched my <a href=\"https:\/\/www.amazon.com\/Oura-Ring-Tracking-Wearable-Fitness\/dp\/B0D9WVR866Q?tag=runnersworld-auto-20\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\" data-vars-ga-outbound-link=\"https:\/\/www.amazon.com\/Oura-Ring-Tracking-Wearable-Fitness\/dp\/B0D9WVR866Q\" data-vars-ga-ux-element=\"Hyperlink\" data-vars-ga-call-to-action=\"Oura ring\" data-vars-ga-product-id=\"39b6b46e-6d92-4022-8b99-752c5e0f591a\" data-node-id=\"16.1\" data-href=\"https:\/\/www.amazon.com\/Oura-Ring-Tracking-Wearable-Fitness\/dp\/B0D9WVR866Q\" data-product-url=\"https:\/\/www.amazon.com\/Oura-Ring-Tracking-Wearable-Fitness\/dp\/B0D9WVR866Q\" data-affiliate=\"true\" data-affiliate-url=\"https:\/\/www.amazon.com\/Oura-Ring-Tracking-Wearable-Fitness\/dp\/B0D9WVR866Q?tag=runnersworld-auto-20\" data-affiliate-network=\"{&quot;site_id&quot;:&quot;0edc3368-766f-4b81-be22-1eddee521647&quot;,&quot;metadata&quot;:{&quot;links&quot;:{&quot;default&quot;:&quot;https:\/\/www.amazon.com\/Oura-Ring-Tracking-Wearable-Fitness\/dp\/B0D9WVR866Q?tag=runnersworld-auto-20&quot;,&quot;sem&quot;:&quot;https:\/\/www.amazon.com\/Oura-Ring-Tracking-Wearable-Fitness\/dp\/B0D9WVR866Q?tag=rw-lift-20&quot;,&quot;social&quot;:&quot;https:\/\/www.amazon.com\/Oura-Ring-Tracking-Wearable-Fitness\/dp\/B0D9WVR866Q?tag=rw-soc-lift-20&quot;}},&quot;network&quot;:{&quot;name&quot;:&quot;Amazon&quot;},&quot;product_metadata&quot;:null,&quot;afflink_redirect&quot;:&quot;\/_p\/afflink\/wYWi\/amazon-placeholder&quot;}\" data-vars-ga-product-price=\"$0.00\" data-vars-ga-product-retailer-id=\"fec13a64-b162-4328-8768-82eaf3c13eb9\" data-vars-ga-link-treatment=\"(not set) | (not set)\" class=\"body-link product-links css-b8iqzl e1aq0z090\">Oura ring<\/a> than other models and, since it\u2019s so light and flat, it was much more comfortable in bed than other sport watches. I might have even preferred it over the Oura itself.  <\/p>\n<p data-journey-content=\"true\" data-node-id=\"17\" class=\"body-text css-i9p093 emevuu60\">The Venu X1 tracks workouts across a long list of different sports, from running and cycling to swimming and strength training. It\u2019s great for triathletes, multi-sport fanatics, and everyday users. The nifty on-screen workout animations, automatic activity detection, and customizable data fields (up to eight per page) make it a close companion for almost any activity.    <\/p>\n<p>Smart Features<\/p>\n<p data-journey-content=\"true\" data-node-id=\"19\" class=\"css-i9p093 emevuu60\">In keeping with its hybrid running-lifestyle vibe, the X1 offers more non-fitness quality of lifestyle features than the average Garmin watch. Though it still doesn&#8217;t compare with the versatility and ease of the smartwatches from Apple, Samsung, and Google, but I think it comes pretty close. You get many of what I&#8217;d consider to be the most important daily conveniences you might not normally get with a running watch.<\/p>\n<ul data-node-id=\"20\" class=\"css-1wk73g0 emevuu60\">\n<li data-node-id=\"20.0\"><strong data-node-id=\"20.0.0\">Notifications:<\/strong> Interface with calls, messages, and app alerts from your phone directly on your wrist. The built-in microphone and speaker allow for on-device calls when paired with your phone. It\u2019s not loud, but gets the job done. They are tricky to silence, though, which can be annoying. Thank heavens it goes into automatic do not disturb mode when you sleep, or your Gmail would make you murderous.<\/li>\n<li data-node-id=\"20.1\"><strong data-node-id=\"20.1.0\">Music:<\/strong> You can listen with offline music playback with support for Spotify and Deezer, plus ample storage for playlists.<\/li>\n<li data-node-id=\"20.2\"><strong data-node-id=\"20.2.0\">Payments:<\/strong> Garmin Pay enables contactless payments at compatible terminals, though bank compatibility may vary by region. Unlike the Apple Watch, though, this isn&#8217;t a tap-and-pay scenario in many cases. It often requires a code to work, which undercuts its effectiveness.<\/li>\n<li data-node-id=\"20.3\"><strong data-node-id=\"20.3.0\">Third-Party Apps:<\/strong> Access to the Garmin IQ Store allows for additional apps and watch faces, though the selection is not as extensive as Apple\u2019s App Store or Google Play.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>Battery Life <\/p>\n<p data-journey-content=\"true\" data-node-id=\"22\" class=\"css-i9p093 emevuu60\">The Venu X1\u2019s most significant compromise is battery life: With the always-on display enabled, you can expect to get up to 2-ish days on a single charge; or up to 5 days with it turned off. GPS tracking drains the battery faster, so expect it to last through about 14 hours or so continuous running time.<\/p>\n<p data-journey-content=\"true\" data-node-id=\"23\" class=\"css-i9p093 emevuu60\">That&#8217;s pretty rough by running watch standards. The X1 generally dies quicker than the <a href=\"https:\/\/www.amazon.com\/Apple-Cellular-Smartwatch-Titanium-Alpine\/dp\/B0DGHNX1SH\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\" data-vars-ga-outbound-link=\"https:\/\/www.amazon.com\/Apple-Cellular-Smartwatch-Titanium-Alpine\/dp\/B0DGHNX1SH\" data-vars-ga-ux-element=\"Hyperlink\" data-vars-ga-call-to-action=\"Apple Watch Ultra 2\" data-node-id=\"23.1\" class=\"body-link css-b8iqzl emevuu60\">Apple Watch Ultra 2<\/a> or the <a href=\"https:\/\/www.amazon.com\/Fitbit-Advanced-Smartwatch-Graphite-Included\/dp\/B0B4N2T7GL\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\" data-vars-ga-outbound-link=\"https:\/\/www.amazon.com\/Fitbit-Advanced-Smartwatch-Graphite-Included\/dp\/B0B4N2T7GL\/\" data-vars-ga-ux-element=\"Hyperlink\" data-vars-ga-call-to-action=\"Fitbit Sense 2\" data-node-id=\"23.3\" class=\"body-link css-b8iqzl emevuu60\">Fitbit Sense 2<\/a>. That said, it still performs more efficiently than most lifestyle-focused smartwatches, and offers better charging speeds. Garmin still has not switched to using a USB-C charging port, though, so don\u2019t lose that cable, folks!   <\/p>\n<p>Road Testing<\/p>\n<p id=\"comparison-to-previous-models-and-competitors\" data-journey-content=\"true\" data-node-id=\"25\" class=\"body-text css-i9p093 emevuu60\">I\u2019ve been testing the Venu X1 for a few weeks, now. I\u2019ve tested it in the always-on mode, in lift-to-read mode, and more. I\u2019ve done the \u201ccharging every morning\u201d thing, and the \u201cletting it ride until it dies,\u201d thing. I\u2019ve run in the mountains, city, on the beach, and on the treadmill with the Venu X1. I\u2019ve downloaded the most popular apps and watch faces, used it to track my sleep, my habits, and even played some chess. (Unfortunately, I still can&#8217;t play chess.)<\/p>\n<p id=\"comparison-to-previous-models-and-competitors\" data-journey-content=\"true\" data-node-id=\"26\" class=\"body-text css-i9p093 emevuu60\">As a running and everyday watch, the X1 a joy. It\u2019s light, big, and easy to use. It&#8217;s wildly reliable. Even in areas with crappy service, like the mountains and the beach, it had no problem linking up with its satellite buddies and tracking my pace and mileage. It\u2019s not quite so situationally robust as the <a href=\"https:\/\/www.runnersworld.com\/gear\/a64980913\/garmin-forerunner-965-review\/\" data-mce-href=\"https:\/\/www.runnersworld.com\/gear\/a64980913\/garmin-forerunner-965-review\/\" data-vars-ga-outbound-link=\"https:\/\/www.runnersworld.com\/gear\/a64980913\/garmin-forerunner-965-review\/\" data-vars-ga-ux-element=\"Hyperlink\" data-vars-ga-call-to-action=\"Garmin 965\" data-node-id=\"26.1\" class=\"body-link css-b8iqzl emevuu60\" data-mce- target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Garmin 965<\/a>, but feels better as an everyday smartwatch because it&#8217;s so slim and light.<\/p>\n<p id=\"comparison-to-previous-models-and-competitors\" data-journey-content=\"true\" data-node-id=\"27\" class=\"body-text css-i9p093 emevuu60\">In fact, I think I may even prefer it over my Apple Watch as a lifestyle piece: I feel much more confident in its performance, so I don&#8217;t feel like I need to switch watches for the sake of my metrics. I even wear it to the office now, and I don\u2019t see myself taking it off any time soon\u2014especially since I ordered a much cuter band that doesn\u2019t make me want to cover it with my sleeve.<\/p>\n<p id=\"comparison-to-previous-models-and-competitors\" data-journey-content=\"true\" data-node-id=\"28\" class=\"body-text css-i9p093 emevuu60\">Where it needs help is app integration and the Garmin Connect interface. Other than the proprietary chokehold Apple has on partnerships with popular fitness apps, I don\u2019t understand the lack of quality programming in their app store. If I could use this watch and link it to my Ladder App or Centr App for training as easily as I connect it to a treadmill, I\u2019d be over the moon. That being said, it does have a ton of different activity options, so hitting \u201cHIIT\u201d or \u201c<a href=\"https:\/\/www.runnersworld.com\/training\/a63573897\/weight-training-runners\/\" data-mce-href=\"https:\/\/www.runnersworld.com\/training\/a63573897\/weight-training-runners\/\" data-vars-ga-outbound-link=\"https:\/\/www.runnersworld.com\/training\/a63573897\/weight-training-runners\/\" data-vars-ga-ux-element=\"Hyperlink\" data-vars-ga-call-to-action=\"weightlifting\" data-node-id=\"28.1\" class=\"body-link css-b8iqzl emevuu60\" data-mce- target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">weightlifting<\/a>\u201d and then doing the workout still gives you a decent read of your energy expenditure and VO2 max.<\/p>\n<p id=\"comparison-to-previous-models-and-competitors\" data-journey-content=\"true\" data-node-id=\"29\" class=\"body-text css-i9p093 emevuu60\">It\u2019s also sturdier than the Ultra in my opinion. My favorite weightlifting exercises are the Body and Bell training on Ladder (shoutout Lauren Kanski!) and Hyrox style on Centr, and both workouts are hard on watches. I\u2019ve slammed this bad boy into many a ski machine and kettlebells have hit the watch dozens of times at this point, and nary a scratch is on him.<\/p>\n<p id=\"comparison-to-previous-models-and-competitors\" data-journey-content=\"true\" data-node-id=\"30\" class=\"body-text css-i9p093 emevuu60\">As with all sport watches, it can get a bit sweaty, and the funk of a fabric band is a real concern and something Garmin should consider when it chooses a new standard band, but they\u2019re inexpensive to replace, and even if they\u2019re ugly, they\u2019re practical and comfy.<\/p>\n<p id=\"comparison-to-previous-models-and-competitors\" data-journey-content=\"true\" data-node-id=\"31\" class=\"body-text css-i9p093 emevuu60\">Overall, it\u2019s a top contender for the best I\u2019ve tested this year, easily. OH! And you can use it for golf too, if you\u2019re into that kind of thing.<\/p>\n<p>Comparing the Specs <\/p>\n<tr data-node-id=\"33.0.0.0\">\n<td data-node-id=\"33.0.0.0.0\"\/>\n<td data-node-id=\"33.0.0.0.1\">\n<p data-node-id=\"33.0.0.0.1.0\" class=\"css-i9p093 emevuu60\"><strong data-node-id=\"33.0.0.0.1.0.0\">Garmin Venu X1<\/strong><\/p>\n<\/td>\n<td data-node-id=\"33.0.0.0.2\">\n<p data-node-id=\"33.0.0.0.2.0\" class=\"css-i9p093 emevuu60\"><strong data-node-id=\"33.0.0.0.2.0.0\">Garmin Venu 3<\/strong><\/p>\n<\/td>\n<td data-node-id=\"33.0.0.0.3\">\n<p data-node-id=\"33.0.0.0.3.0\" class=\"css-i9p093 emevuu60\"><strong data-node-id=\"33.0.0.0.3.0.0\">Apple Watch Ultra 2<\/strong><\/p>\n<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr data-node-id=\"33.0.0.1\">\n<td data-node-id=\"33.0.0.1.0\">\n<p data-node-id=\"33.0.0.1.0.0\" class=\"css-i9p093 emevuu60\">Display:<\/p>\n<\/td>\n<td data-node-id=\"33.0.0.1.1\">\n<p data-node-id=\"33.0.0.1.1.0\" class=\"css-i9p093 emevuu60\">2&#8243; AMOLED, square<\/p>\n<\/td>\n<td data-node-id=\"33.0.0.1.2\">\n<p data-node-id=\"33.0.0.1.2.0\" class=\"css-i9p093 emevuu60\">1.4&#8243; AMOLED, round<\/p>\n<\/td>\n<td data-node-id=\"33.0.0.1.3\">\n<p data-node-id=\"33.0.0.1.3.0\" class=\"css-i9p093 emevuu60\">1.93&#8243; OLED, square<\/p>\n<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr data-node-id=\"33.0.0.2\">\n<td data-node-id=\"33.0.0.2.0\">\n<p data-node-id=\"33.0.0.2.0.0\" class=\"css-i9p093 emevuu60\">Thickness:<\/p>\n<\/td>\n<td data-node-id=\"33.0.0.2.1\">\n<p data-node-id=\"33.0.0.2.1.0\" class=\"css-i9p093 emevuu60\">7.9mm<\/p>\n<\/td>\n<td data-node-id=\"33.0.0.2.2\">\n<p data-node-id=\"33.0.0.2.2.0\" class=\"css-i9p093 emevuu60\">12.2mm<\/p>\n<\/td>\n<td data-node-id=\"33.0.0.2.3\">\n<p data-node-id=\"33.0.0.2.3.0\" class=\"css-i9p093 emevuu60\">14.4mm<\/p>\n<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr data-node-id=\"33.0.0.3\">\n<td data-node-id=\"33.0.0.3.0\">\n<p data-node-id=\"33.0.0.3.0.0\" class=\"css-i9p093 emevuu60\">Battery (AOD on):<\/p>\n<\/td>\n<td data-node-id=\"33.0.0.3.1\">\n<p data-node-id=\"33.0.0.3.1.0\" class=\"css-i9p093 emevuu60\">2 days<\/p>\n<\/td>\n<td data-node-id=\"33.0.0.3.2\">\n<p data-node-id=\"33.0.0.3.2.0\" class=\"css-i9p093 emevuu60\">4-5 days<\/p>\n<\/td>\n<td data-node-id=\"33.0.0.3.3\">\n<p data-node-id=\"33.0.0.3.3.0\" class=\"css-i9p093 emevuu60\">1.5 days<\/p>\n<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr data-node-id=\"33.0.0.4\">\n<td data-node-id=\"33.0.0.4.0\">\n<p data-node-id=\"33.0.0.4.0.0\" class=\"css-i9p093 emevuu60\">Dual-band GPS:<\/p>\n<\/td>\n<td data-node-id=\"33.0.0.4.1\">\n<p data-node-id=\"33.0.0.4.1.0\" class=\"css-i9p093 emevuu60\">No<\/p>\n<\/td>\n<td data-node-id=\"33.0.0.4.2\">\n<p data-node-id=\"33.0.0.4.2.0\" class=\"css-i9p093 emevuu60\">No<\/p>\n<\/td>\n<td data-node-id=\"33.0.0.4.3\">\n<p data-node-id=\"33.0.0.4.3.0\" class=\"css-i9p093 emevuu60\">Yes<\/p>\n<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr data-node-id=\"33.0.0.5\">\n<td data-node-id=\"33.0.0.5.0\">\n<p data-node-id=\"33.0.0.5.0.0\" class=\"css-i9p093 emevuu60\">Offline Maps:<\/p>\n<\/td>\n<td data-node-id=\"33.0.0.5.1\">\n<p data-node-id=\"33.0.0.5.1.0\" class=\"css-i9p093 emevuu60\">Yes<\/p>\n<\/td>\n<td data-node-id=\"33.0.0.5.2\">\n<p data-node-id=\"33.0.0.5.2.0\" class=\"css-i9p093 emevuu60\">No<\/p>\n<\/td>\n<td data-node-id=\"33.0.0.5.3\">\n<p data-node-id=\"33.0.0.5.3.0\" class=\"css-i9p093 emevuu60\">Yes<\/p>\n<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr data-node-id=\"33.0.0.6\">\n<td data-node-id=\"33.0.0.6.0\">\n<p data-node-id=\"33.0.0.6.0.0\" class=\"css-i9p093 emevuu60\">Price (MSRP):<\/p>\n<\/td>\n<td data-node-id=\"33.0.0.6.1\">\n<p data-node-id=\"33.0.0.6.1.0\" class=\"css-i9p093 emevuu60\">$799.99<\/p>\n<\/td>\n<td data-node-id=\"33.0.0.6.2\">\n<p data-node-id=\"33.0.0.6.2.0\" class=\"css-i9p093 emevuu60\">$449.99<\/p>\n<\/td>\n<td data-node-id=\"33.0.0.6.3\">\n<p data-node-id=\"33.0.0.6.3.0\" class=\"css-i9p093 emevuu60\">$799<\/p>\n<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<p data-journey-content=\"true\" data-node-id=\"34\" class=\"css-i9p093 emevuu60\">Compared to its predecessor, the Garmin Venu 3, the X1 offers a larger, brighter display, thinner body, offline maps, and more advanced training metrics, but at the cost of battery life and a higher price. Compared to the Apple Watch Ultra 2, the Venu X1 matches or exceeds in display size and mapping features but falls short in app ecosystem and battery efficiency.<\/p>\n<p>Final Verdict<\/p>\n<p data-journey-content=\"true\" data-node-id=\"36\" class=\"css-i9p093 emevuu60\">The Garmin Venu X1 is a boss-level, forward-thinking smartwatch that changes what we expect a fitness-focused wearable can look and feel like. It\u2019s best suited for users who prioritize display quality, advanced health metrics, and a sleek, modern design\u2014and those who are willing to accept shorter battery life as the trade-off. Runners, tech-savvy users, and those who value Garmin\u2019s robust GPS will find a lot to love, though those needing week-long battery life or a richer app store may want to look elsewhere. <\/p>\n<p data-journey-content=\"true\" data-node-id=\"37\" class=\"css-i9p093 emevuu60\">If you want the most stylish, feature-rich Garmin yet and are comfortable with daily charging, the Venu X1 is a compelling\u2014if pricey\u2014choice. But for many, it will be the perfect balance of fitness and blending in with all the other square watches out and about.<\/p>\n<p><img src=\"https:\/\/www.europesays.com\/us\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/07\/1752517090_280_e517b516-4f09-461e-b6d3-e18d3a69be04_1610382655.file\" alt=\"Headshot of Cat Bowen\" title=\"Headshot of Cat Bowen\" width=\"100%\" height=\"100%\" decoding=\"async\" loading=\"lazy\" class=\"css-o0wq4v ev8dhu53\"\/><\/p>\n<p>Cat Bowen has been covering parenting and home for over a decade. At Best Products, she has tested hundreds of products for parents and for the home, often spending dozens of hours per product to ensure her reviews are accurate and informative. Prior to joining the team, she was at Romper where she covered everything from breastfeeding to child sleep habits to abortion rights access. You can find her work on Bustle, Romper, and more. Cat is a bit of an intellectual magpie and perpetual student, most recently receiving a graduate degree in gender studies where she examined a topic that vexes so many \u2014 pockets in women\u2019s clothing.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"The smartwatch market is evolving at breakneck speed, with brands racing to blend cutting-edge fitness features and everyday&hellip;\n","protected":false},"author":3,"featured_media":65518,"comment_status":"","ping_status":"","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"footnotes":""},"categories":[18],"tags":[27657,46560,1201,705,3181,2875,46559,158,67,132,68],"class_list":{"0":"post-65517","1":"post","2":"type-post","3":"status-publish","4":"format-standard","5":"has-post-thumbnail","7":"category-gadgets","8":"tag-content-type-product-review","9":"tag-contentid-4488feb0-b271-4f60-b24e-dc200d982642","10":"tag-displaytype-standard-article","11":"tag-gadgets","12":"tag-hasproduct-true","13":"tag-locale-us","14":"tag-shorttitle-garmin-venu-x1-review","15":"tag-technology","16":"tag-united-states","17":"tag-unitedstates","18":"tag-us"},"share_on_mastodon":{"url":"https:\/\/pubeurope.com\/@us\/114852967448569712","error":""},"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.europesays.com\/us\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/65517","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.europesays.com\/us\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.europesays.com\/us\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.europesays.com\/us\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/3"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.europesays.com\/us\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=65517"}],"version-history":[{"count":0,"href":"https:\/\/www.europesays.com\/us\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/65517\/revisions"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.europesays.com\/us\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/65518"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.europesays.com\/us\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=65517"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.europesays.com\/us\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=65517"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.europesays.com\/us\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=65517"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}