Garmin Instinct Solar Graphite
Score: 86/100
Apple Watch Series 11
Score: 91/100Rankings
The Apple Watch Series 11 42 mm offers a fast-charging, lightweight design with a full health-sensor suite and independent 5G cellular. Its main trade-off is a modest 24-hour battery and a small display that may not suit power users. Best for iPhone owners who value premium health features and fast charging.
The Instinct Solar is a rugged outdoor-focused GPS smartwatch with industry-leading battery life thanks to solar charging. Its utilitarian plastic design and tiny monochrome display may deter fashion-oriented users. Best suited for adventurers who prioritize endurance over style.
| Attribute | | |
|---|---|---|
1,296 hoursbest | 24 hours | |
| ↓ lower better | 159 g | 29.7 gbest |
| ↓ lower better | 140 minutes | 30 minutesbest |
— | 64 GBbest |
Click an attribute name to sort · Green = best, red = worst (relative to this comparison)
| Attribute | | |
|---|---|---|
Build & Design(2) | ||
Weight (g) | 159 g | 29.7 g |
Water & Dust Resistance (IP Rating) | 100 meters | IP6X |
Battery & Power(2) | ||
Battery Life (hours) | 1296 hours | 24 hours |
Charging Time (minutes) | 140 minutes | 30 minutes |
Connectivity(1) | ||
Bluetooth Version | Bluetooth | 5.3 |
Products in the top-left offer the best value (high score, low price).
Professional reviewers consistently highlight the Instinct Solar's unmatched battery longevity, reliable GPS accuracy, and rugged build, while noting its utilitarian plastic styling and limited modular features.
Everyday users love the near-never-charging experience, solar charging effectiveness, and durability, but they frequently mention the watch's plastic aesthetic, small display, and accidental button presses as drawbacks.
“one of the best running watches around”
“incredibly tough and practical”
“the Instinct Solar is a great hiking watch, worthy of our top recommendation”
Professional reviewers commend the Apple Watch Series 11 for finally solving the battery life shortfall that plagued earlier versions, while also lauding its premium Jet Black design, the powerful S10 processor and the addition of fast-charging.
Everyday consumers echo the professional praise, emphasizing the watch's lightweight feel, seamless connectivity for calls and messages, and the breadth of health tracking features.
