Apple Watch vs Garmin Forerunner 70 vs Samsung Galaxy Fit3
By Raimundo Oliveira, founder & editor · Published · Updated · Products hand-picked and curated, updated daily
For iPhone users, the Apple Watch SE 3 ($249) is the value pick. Runners on any phone should look at the Garmin Forerunner 70 ($249.99), and the Samsung Galaxy Fit3 ($69.99) is the budget band, without built-in GPS.
Our picks at a glance
- Best value for iPhone: Apple Watch SE 3 GPS 40mm Starlight — Lowest-priced current Apple Watch. (USD 249.00, reference 2026-11-12)
- Best smartwatch: Apple Watch Series 11 GPS 46mm Jet Black Aluminum — Most complete health and fitness features. (USD 409.00, reference 2026-11-12)
- Best for runners: Garmin Forerunner 70 GPS Running Smartwatch — Built-in GPS; works with any phone. (USD 249.99, reference 2026-11-12)
- Best budget band: Samsung Galaxy Fit3 Activity Tracker — Activity and sleep tracking for $69.99. (USD 69.99, reference 2026-11-12)
Apple Watch SE 3 GPS 40mm Starlight
The value Apple Watch with sleep score, Vitals app, fast charging and an Always-On display in a 40mm case.
Apple Watch Series 11 GPS 46mm Jet Black Aluminum
Apple Watch Series 11 with sleep score, hypertension notifications, up to 24 hours of battery and a 46mm case.
Garmin Forerunner 70 GPS Running Smartwatch
An easy-to-use GPS running watch with pace, distance and wrist heart rate for beginner runners.
Samsung Galaxy Fit3 Activity Tracker
A light 18.5g fitness band with a large 1.6-inch display and an aluminum body for workouts and sleep tracking.
Start with your phone: Apple Watch requires an iPhone, while Garmin works with iOS and Android, and the Galaxy Fit3 works best with Android and Samsung phones.
How we chose
We compared the published specifications, reference prices and listed pros and cons of products in our catalog. We have not tested these products. Prices were checked on November 12, 2026, and can change at the retailer.
Smartwatch features
Apple Watch Series 11 adds the most health features and a polished design; daily charging is typical.
Running
The Garmin Forerunner 70 focuses on reliable built-in GPS and simple training data.
Budget tracking
The Galaxy Fit3 tracks activity and sleep with a 1.6-inch screen and weighs about 18.5 g, but has no built-in GPS.
Frequently asked questions
Does Apple Watch work with Android?
No. Apple Watch requires an iPhone.
Does the Galaxy Fit3 have GPS?
No. The Samsung Galaxy Fit3 has no built-in GPS.
Which is best for running?
The Garmin Forerunner 70, with built-in GPS and iOS/Android support.
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