In 2025 Garmin released a huge number of new models, many of which were included in our list best Garmin watches general. We've seen everything from the Fenix 8 Pro with a microLED display. Garmin Venu X1 becoming a direct competitor to the Apple Watch Ultra and getting a flashier follow-up to the Forerunner 965 in the form of the Garmin Forerunner 970. We're also getting more Garmin watches with built-in flashlights, which is definitely a win in my opinion.
I don't expect things to slow down in 2026 as Garmin looks to solidify its position as a leader in the smartwatch space. While I don't know what's coming next, I think it's fair to assume that some of Garmin's most popular watches will get an update. Hopefully some older watches will get some update love too.
1. Garmin Forerunner 65 (maybe Forerunner 70?)
It's hard to predict where Garmin will go with its model numbers at this point, especially after launch Garmin Precursor 570 as the successor to the Forerunner 265. What I do know is that the Forerunner 55 is a watch that is starting to feel a little dated compared to other Forerunner watches. Whether it's the Forerunner 65 or Forerunner 70, it might be time for a new entry-level running watch from Garmin.
Great Garmin Precursor 165 It might be considered Garmin's most beginner-friendly watch, but it's not exactly cheap. When the Forerunner 55 launched in 2021, it cost less than $200 / £200 / AU$400. Now you can buy it much cheaper.
I would still like to see Garmin offer a more budget-friendly option in its range. Whether or not this means ditching features like the AMOLED screen, I think there will be interest in a stripped-down watch that can still provide good tracking and a smartwatch experience. Garmin also has new competitors around this price point. First of all, the excellent Coros Pace 3.
It doesn't have to include all the latest voice-enabled smartwatch features or necessarily include features like maps. I'd like to see a successor to the Forerunner 55 that combines some of Garmin's latest training and tracking technologies into a package that's much more affordable than the options available now. I don't think I'm alone in thinking this is a good idea.
2. Garmin Venu X2
Of all the Garmin watches released in 2025, the Venu X1 was the most unexpected. When Garmin released the Fenix E as a more affordable, albeit stripped-down version of the Fenix 8, it seemed like it was testing the waters with a watch to take on the competition. Apple Watch Ultra. Then came the Venu X1 with its boxy appearance, giant AMOLED screen and slim design, and we finally got Garmin's answer to this question. Applebiggest smart watch.
I liked Venu X1. It manages to incorporate most of Garmin's best features. While it required some adjustments to its sizing, it seemed like a good addition to Garmin's already vibrant lineup.
However, it fell short in some areas… Battery performance wasn't fantastic, and it lacked features like ECG and Garmin's impressive dual-band GPS. It also lacked the LTE connectivity that Garmin later introduced with the Fenix 8 Pro.
Given the mostly positive reception the Venu X1 has received, I'm expecting Garmin to give us the Venu X2, and I hope that's the case. Next, I wish it was better optimized for the latest versions of Garmin. operating system mainly created for its many round watches. Hopefully it will get dual-band GPS and ECG upgrades without affecting the already slim design. Hopefully this will also greatly improve your battery life.
LTE connectivity will make it more suitable for Apple Watch Ultra 3 (or Ultra 4), especially if the focus is on using that extra connectivity for security scenarios, as well as the ability to make calls without having to have your phone nearby.
3. Garmin Instinct 4/4E
The Instinct line is an intriguing addition to Garmin's smartwatch family. There's definitely room for a more affordable alternative to the Fenix series, and the Instinct has a distinctive design that sets it apart from other watches.
With the Instinct 3, Garmin has taken the same design approach as the Fenix, giving you the option of an AMOLED or solar display. We still have the fun but rugged look, useful features like a built-in flashlight, and most of Garmin's best tracking and training features.
I don't think Instinct is going anywhere. While I think the lack of features like maps will still be a big differentiator between the Instinct and Fenix lines, I'd like to see the new Instinct show improvements in other departments.
Adding an LTE option would be a smart move if Garmin can keep the price close to the current price of the Instinct 3. Color touchscreen support should be a must here. Mostly, though, don't forget what makes using the Instinct different from any other Garmin watch. Using a split display and showing how distributing stats and features between them can make this a more intuitive adventure watch.
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The best Garmin watch for any budget.
