These Nine Garmin Watches Are on Sale Ahead of Prime Day
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Prime Day may still be weeks away, but the best deals don't always wait for Amazon's biggest sale event. Right now, several popular Garmin watches feature steep discounts, mostly from Garmin's previous-generation models. Whether you're a casual runner, serious athlete, or outdoor adventurer, there's likely a discounted Garmin that fits your needs and budget. Using price-checking tools, I've rounded up my favorite Garmin watches that you can snag at a discount right now.
Forerunner 265 and 965
The Forerunner 265 is without question the best fitness watch for runners, according to Senior Health Editor Beth Skwarecki's review. Right now, you can buy it in 42 mm for $100 off, down to $349.99. You could also snag an Amazon Renewed (aka recycled and refurbished) version for $309.
The Forerunner 965 is 10% off, down to $540 from $599.99.
More importantly, these models are over $200 more affordable than the newly released 570 and 970 models that replaced them. If you ask me, this is a great time to buy the old models. You get nearly identical functionality at a significant discount, simply because newer model numbers exist.
Venu 3S
Garmin's most competitive answer to traditional smartwatches, The Venu 3S is $100 below its launch price, down to $349.99. The Venu 3/3S have all the features typically associated with Apple Watch and Samsung Galaxy watches, like voice calling in addition to health metrics.
The Venu 3/3S smartwatches haven't been replaced by newer models yet, but this sustained discount suggests a Venu 4 announcement could be coming soon.
The Forerunner 55
The Forerunner 55 has been holding steady at $169, down from its original $199. While that's not a dramatic discount, the Forerunner 55 is a solid entry point into Garmin's running watch ecosystem. As with all the Forerunners, it has physical buttons so you can stop and start laps without fumbling with a touchscreen, and running-specific features like race predictions and PacePro screens that can guide you to a specific finish time in a race. This watch would become an instant recommendation if it ever drops to $99, but at its current pricing, it's still reasonable for budget-conscious runners.
Vivoactive 5
For those seeking the best overall value, I'd say the Vivoactive 5 at $199.99 (down from $299.99) stands out as the most compelling deal in Garmin's current lineup. This 2023 release offers very similar features to the recently launched Vivoactive 6 but costs significantly less. It's been called Garmin's most underrated watch for good reason. It's one of the more affordable options that still has a range of fitness tracking capabilities, but in a sleeker, more casual design than the sport-focused models.
Venu Sq 2
The Venu Sq 2, while older (it was released in 2022), is still popular among people looking to replace one of those square Fitbit smartwatches. At $194, it's an affordable option—but honestly, you might as well take advantage of the discounted Vivoactive 5 for basically the same price and way more features.
Instinct 2 and Instinct 2 Solar
For more rugged options, your best bet is the Instinct line. The Instinct 2 is down 33% at $199.99 and the Instinct 2 Solar is nearly 40% at $248.93. The price on the non-solar is slightly (around $20) lower than what it's been going for in the recent past.
Like most of the watches on this list, these are older models, now that the Instinct 3 has launched. Still, the Instinct 2 and 2 Solar are fully capable hiking and tactical watches, if you're looking for something for the outdoors but don't need the newest, most expensive watch out there.
Fenix 7 Pro Sapphire Solar
For top-of-the-line options, the Fenix 7 Pro Sapphire Solar is currently marked down to $647.99 from $899. For serious outdoor athletes who don't need the absolute latest features, this $250 discount makes the Fenix 7 Pro a worthwhile option compared to pricier current models. The Fenix 7 series has a long battery life, solar charging (in models with Solar in the name), and a rugged build with scratch-resistant glass. Plus, this older model still has the nifty flashlight feature.
The bottom line
Prime Day deals on popular Garmin models are often modest improvements over existing discounts, and highly sought-after models frequently sell out quickly during major sale events. By shopping now, you avoid the rush and ensure you get the model you want without the stress of competing with other shoppers.