Apple Watch 12 vs Garmin Venu 4: 5,520-Step Test Results
In a direct comparison of 5,520 steps, the Apple Watch 12 and Garmin Venu 4 showed nearly identical fitness tracking accuracy.
Key points
- Apple Watch 12 and Garmin Venu 4 recorded nearly identical step counts and heart rates during a 5,520-step test.
- The Apple Watch used only 1% battery during the walk, while the Garmin Venu 4 consumed 4%.
- Apple Watch overestimated elevation by 38 feet compared to the control, while Garmin was closer to the manual count.
Tom's Guide recently tested the Apple Watch Series 12 and Garmin Venu 4 side-by-side during a 50-minute walk in Seattle. Both devices, priced at $549 for the top-tier models, produced remarkably similar data for steps, distance, and heart rate. The test aimed to determine which smartwatch offers superior fitness tracking capabilities for everyday users.
The results were nearly identical, with the Apple Watch overcounting steps by 11 and the Garmin undercounting by just two. While heart rate readings matched perfectly, the devices diverged significantly in battery consumption and elevation tracking. This highlights that both brands have matured in their core tracking metrics, leaving battery life as a key differentiator.
Step and distance metrics align closely
During the 5,520-step walk, both wearables demonstrated high precision in counting steps and measuring distance. The Apple Watch recorded 5,531 steps, while the Garmin logged 5,518, compared to the manual control count. Distance readings were similarly tight, with Apple at 2.91 miles and Garmin at 2.89 miles against a control of 2.95 miles. This level of accuracy suggests both devices are reliable for casual fitness tracking.
However, the Apple Watch consistently reported higher elevation data, adding 38 feet to the climb compared to the control. This pattern of overestimating vertical gain is a known trait of Apple’s algorithms. While this may appeal to users who want to see more progress, it means the data is not strictly neutral. Garmin’s figures were closer to the manual measurement, offering a more conservative estimate of effort.
Heart rate sensors show identical performance
Both smartwatches featured their latest heart rate technology, with the Garmin using its Elevate V5 sensor and Apple employing its newest holistic array. The outcome was a perfect match, with both devices recording an average heart rate of 131 bpm and a maximum of 160 bpm. This parity indicates that neither brand has a distinct advantage in this specific metric. Users can rely on either device for consistent cardiovascular monitoring during moderate exercise.
Battery drain reveals a significant gap
The most notable difference emerged in power consumption. The Garmin Venu 4 used 4% of its battery during the 50-minute walk, whereas the Apple Watch Series 12 consumed only 1%. This four-fold difference contradicts the common perception that Garmin watches always outlast Apple rivals in short, intense sessions. For users prioritizing battery efficiency during daily workouts, the Apple Watch currently holds the edge in this specific test scenario.
Despite the battery advantage, the overall winner was declared to be the Garmin Venu 4. This decision likely weighs the broader ecosystem and long-term battery health against the single-session drain. The catch is that the Apple Watch may require more frequent charging for heavy users. Buyers should consider their specific usage patterns when choosing between these two highly capable devices.
