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Garmin Swim 2 Review | 126 Data compared

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  • Avg. price: ~£220
  • Screen size: 1.04 inch
  • Battery life: 7 day/s
  • Display type: MIP LCD

Garmin Swim 2 review. Compare 126 technical specifications and user reviews to see how it ranks among smartwatches and if it is worth buying.

6.0

Overall score

What it is: An overall evaluation of the smartwatch's quality, based on technical analyses and user reviews.

When it matters: When you need a quick reference to identify the best Smartwatches on the market.

Score components:

90.0%

5.7

Technical Score

10.0%

9.0

User score

Good
5.7

Technical Score

What it is: An assessment of the smartwatch's technical performance, covering eight key areas: performance & hardware, software, camera, connectivity, display, battery, audio, and design.

When it matters: When you want to compare Smartwatches based on technical performance and available features.

Score components:

24.0%

5.3

Health

21.0%

7.4

Fitness

16.0%

4.0

Battery

14.0%

6.1

Smart features

12.0%

4.7

Connectivity

9.0%

6.2

Display & Design

4.0%

5.7

Hardware

Good
9.0

User score

What it is: A rating that combines user reviews and the total number of reviews received by the smartwatch

When it matters: When you want to know how a smartwatch handles daily tasks and how reliable it remains over time according to user feedback.

Score components:

70.0%

8.6

User reviews

30.0%

10

Popularity

User score:
amazon
4.2
(1655)
amazon
4.4
(1079)

(Reviews last updated: Apr 2026)

Exceptional
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    Best prices

    Best rankings

    ?

    Available: ranking among products currently available (including other versions of this product).
    All: ranking among all products in the database.

    Technical Specifications of smartwatch Garmin Swim 2

    Technical Score

    What it is: An assessment of the smartwatch's technical performance, covering eight key areas: performance & hardware, software, camera, connectivity, display, battery, audio, and design.

    When it matters: When you want to compare Smartwatches based on technical performance and available features.

    Score components:

    24.0%

    5.3

    Health

    21.0%

    7.4

    Fitness

    16.0%

    4.0

    Battery

    14.0%

    6.1

    Smart features

    12.0%

    4.7

    Connectivity

    9.0%

    6.2

    Display & Design

    4.0%

    5.7

    Hardware

    5.7
    Garmin Swim 2 has a technical score of 5.68 points, which is lower than 65.6% of smartwatches.
    User score

    What it is: A rating that combines user reviews and the total number of reviews received by the smartwatch

    When it matters: When you want to know how a smartwatch handles daily tasks and how reliable it remains over time according to user feedback.

    Score components:

    70.0%

    8.6

    User reviews

    30.0%

    10

    Popularity

    User score:
    amazon
    4.2
    (1655)
    amazon
    4.4
    (1079)

    (Reviews last updated: Apr 2026)

    9.0
    Garmin Swim 2 has a user score of 8.99 points, which is higher than 89.6% of smartwatches.
    Popularity
    What it is: An indicator based on the number of reviews received by the smartwatch.
    When it matters: When you prefer to purchase a product chosen and reviewed by many other consumers.
    10
    Garmin Swim 2 has a popularity of 10 points, which is higher than 74.7% of smartphones.
    Ratio quality/price

    What it is: An indicator that combines the smartwatch's overall rating with its cost.

    When it matters: When you are looking for a smartwatch with a good balance between quality and price.

    Score components:

    60.0%

    6.0

    Overall score

    40.0%

    9.4

    Price

    7.0
    Garmin Swim 2 has a quality-to-price ratio of 7 points, which is lower than 62.2% of smartphones.
    Brand name
    What it is: The company that designs, sells, and supports the watch.
    When it matters: When brand ecosystem, style, or support matters to you.

    Importance: MEDIUM

    Garmin
    Heart rate monitor
    What it is: A built-in sensor that measures your pulse directly from the wrist.
    When it matters: When you want health data from your wrist during the day or night.

    Importance: HIGH

    yes
    Garmin Swim 2 includes a heart rate monitor. 90.4% of smartwatches include a heart rate monitor.
    Blood oxygen monitoring
    What it is: A wrist-based feature that estimates blood oxygen saturation over time.
    When it matters: When you want health data from your wrist during the day or night.

    Importance: HIGH

    no
    Garmin Swim 2 does not support blood oxygen monitoring. 64.4% of smartwatches support blood oxygen monitoring.
    Readings are for wellness use, not medical diagnosis.
    ECG
    What it is: The ability to record a single-lead electrocardiogram from the wrist.
    When it matters: When you want health data from your wrist during the day or night.

    Importance: HIGH

    no
    Garmin Swim 2 does not support ECG. 15.1% of smartwatches support ECG.
    Irregular heart rate warnings
    What it is: Notifications that flag heart-rate patterns which appear unusually irregular.
    When it matters: When you want health data from your wrist during the day or night.

    Importance: MEDIUM

    no
    Garmin Swim 2 does not support irregular heart rate warnings. 43.7% of smartwatches support irregular heart rate warnings.
    Show more
    Accelerometer
    What it is: A motion sensor that measures acceleration, steps, gestures, and general movement.
    When it matters: When you track workouts and want better training data.

    Importance: MEDIUM

    yes
    Garmin Swim 2 includes an accelerometer. 99.1% of smartwatches include an accelerometer.
    Barometer
    What it is: A pressure sensor used for altitude changes, elevation estimates, and weather-related context.
    When it matters: When you run, ride, hike, or navigate without relying on your phone.

    Importance: MEDIUM

    no
    Garmin Swim 2 does not include a barometer. 45.6% of smartwatches include a barometer.
    Gyroscope
    What it is: A motion sensor that measures rotation and helps interpret wrist movement more accurately.
    When it matters: When you track workouts and want better training data.

    Importance: MEDIUM

    no
    Garmin Swim 2 does not include a gyroscope. 64.6% of smartwatches include a gyroscope.
    Cadence sensor
    What it is: A sensor input used to measure step or pedal rhythm during training.
    When it matters: When you track workouts and want better training data.

    Importance: MEDIUM

    no
    Garmin Swim 2 does not include a cadence sensor. 20.1% of smartwatches include a cadence sensor.
    Distance tracking
    What it is: The ability to measure how far you move during walks, runs, rides, or other activities.
    When it matters: When you track workouts and want better training data.

    Importance: MEDIUM

    yes
    Garmin Swim 2 supports distance tracking. 95.7% of smartwatches support distance tracking.
    Show more
    Battery life
    What it is: The typical endurance the watch can deliver on a full charge under the stated usage pattern.
    When it matters: When you do not want to charge the watch too often.

    Importance: HIGH

    Good value: >=7 days

    7 day/s
    Garmin Swim 2 offers a battery life of 7 day/s which is longer than that of 38.7% of smartwatches and equal to that of 17.1% of smartwatches.
    Battery life in training mode
    What it is: The expected endurance while workout tracking and related training functions are active.
    When it matters: When you do not want to charge the watch too often.

    Importance: HIGH

    Good value: >=36.8 h

    12 h
    Garmin Swim 2 lasts 12 h in training mode which is shorter than 62.9% of smartwatches and equal to that of 3.1% of smartwatches.
    Up to 12 hours in gps mode.
    Battery life with GPS on
    What it is: The expected runtime when satellite tracking stays active throughout use.
    When it matters: When you do not want to charge the watch too often.

    Importance: HIGH

    Good value: >=35 h

    13 h
    Garmin Swim 2 lasts 13 h with GPS on which is shorter than 66.8% of smartwatches and equal to that of 0.3% of smartwatches.
    Battery power
    What it is: The battery capacity, usually measured in milliampere-hours (mAh).
    When it matters: When you do not want to charge the watch too often.

    Importance: HIGH

    Good value: >=397 mAh

    158 mAh
    Garmin Swim 2 has a battery capacity of 158 mAh which is smaller than the batteries in 95% of smartwatches and equal to those in 0.2% of smartwatches.
    Charge time
    What it is: The time needed to recharge the battery from empty to full or to a stated percentage.
    When it matters: When you want to top up the battery quickly.

    Importance: HIGH

    Good value: <=102 min

    120 min
    Garmin Swim 2 charges in 120 min which is faster than 12.9% of smartwatches and equal to the charge time of 43.4% of smartwatches.
    Show more
    Operating system
    What it is: The software platform that runs the watch interface, apps, and core functions.
    When it matters: When you care about apps, features, and long-term support.

    Importance: HIGH

    Garmin OS
    Garmin Swim 2 runs Garmin OS which is more advanced than the operating system in 71.1% of smartwatches and the same as that in 7.7% of smartwatches.
    Software update frequency
    What it is: Shows how actively the watch is still updated: regular means ongoing updates throughout active support, occasional means updates every few months or only from time to time, and ended means active software support has mostly stopped.
    When it matters: When you care how actively the watch is still supported with fixes, patches, and new features.

    Importance: MEDIUM

    ended
    Garmin Swim 2 has ended software update support which is equal to that of 57.5% of smartwatches.
    Software support appears ended or discontinued.
    Third-party app support
    What it is: Support for installing or using apps from developers beyond the watch maker.
    When it matters: When you care about apps, features, and long-term support.

    Importance: MEDIUM

    yes
    Garmin Swim 2 supports third-party apps. 47.6% of smartwatches support third-party apps.
    Notifications
    What it is: Mirroring of calls, messages, apps, or other alerts on the watch.
    When it matters: When you want to check alerts without taking out your phone.

    Importance: MEDIUM

    yes
    Garmin Swim 2 supports notifications. 99.9% of smartwatches support notifications.
    Voice assistant support
    What it is: Support for a voice assistant that can answer queries or trigger actions from the wrist.
    When it matters: When you want to control the watch or reply without typing.

    Importance: MEDIUM

    no
    Garmin Swim 2 does not support voice assistants. 68% of smartwatches support voice assistants.
    Show more
    Cellular module
    What it is: Built-in mobile connectivity that can keep the watch online away from the phone.
    When it matters: When you want calls, messages, or data without your phone nearby.

    Importance: HIGH

    no
    Garmin Swim 2 does not include a cellular module. 17.2% of smartwatches include a cellular module.
    SIM cards
    What it is: The number or type of SIM options the watch accepts for cellular service.
    When it matters: When you want calls, messages, or data without your phone nearby.

    Importance: LOW

    Good value: eSIM support

    0
    GPS
    What it is: Built-in satellite positioning that lets the watch record location during outdoor activity.
    When it matters: When you run, ride, hike, or navigate without relying on your phone.

    Importance: HIGH

    yes
    Garmin Swim 2 supports GPS. 56.1% of smartwatches support GPS.
    Galileo support
    What it is: Support for Galileo satellites alongside other positioning systems.
    When it matters: When you run, ride, hike, or navigate without relying on your phone.

    Importance: MEDIUM

    yes
    Garmin Swim 2 supports Galileo navigation. 38.7% of smartwatches support Galileo navigation.
    Compass
    What it is: A directional sensor that helps the watch determine heading and orientation.
    When it matters: When you run, ride, hike, or navigate without relying on your phone.

    Importance: MEDIUM

    no
    Garmin Swim 2 does not include a compass. 49.3% of smartwatches include a compass.
    Show more
    Screen size
    What it is: The diagonal measurement of the visible display area, usually expressed in inches.
    When it matters: When you want the screen to be easy to read at a glance.

    Importance: HIGH

    Good value: >=1.5 inch

    1.04 inch
    Garmin Swim 2 has a screen size of 1.04 inch which is smaller than the screens of 96.6% of smartwatches and equal to those of 0.3% of smartwatches.
    Display type
    What it is: The screen technology used by the watch, such as AMOLED, OLED, or memory-in-pixel LCD.
    When it matters: When you want the screen to be easy to read at a glance.

    Importance: HIGH

    MIP LCD
    Garmin Swim 2 uses a MIP LCD display type which is less advanced than that of 61.3% of smartwatches and the same as that of 5.2% of smartwatches.
    Resolution
    What it is: The total number of pixels available on the watch display.
    When it matters: When you want the screen to be easy to read at a glance.

    Importance: MEDIUM

    Good value: >=416 x 416

    208 x 208
    Garmin Swim 2 has a display resolution of 208 x 208 which is lower than that of 89.7% of smartwatches and equal to that of 0.2% of smartwatches.
    Pixel density
    What it is: The number of pixels packed into each inch of the display.
    When it matters: When you want the screen to be easy to read at a glance.

    Importance: MEDIUM

    Good value: >=326 ppi

    283 ppi
    Garmin Swim 2 has a pixel density of 283 ppi which is lower than that of 65.1% of smartwatches and equal to that of 4.7% of smartwatches.
    Display brightness
    What it is: The peak brightness the display can reach, usually expressed in nits.
    When it matters: When you want the screen to stay readable outdoors and in strong sunlight.

    Importance: HIGH

    Good value: >=1000 nits

    500 nits
    Garmin Swim 2 reaches 500 nits nits of display brightness, which is lower than that of 70% of smartwatches and equal to that of 15.5% of smartwatches.
    Show more
    CPU speed
    What it is: The clock speed of the watch processor, usually expressed in GHz or MHz.
    When it matters: When you want apps and menus to feel smooth.

    Importance: MEDIUM

    Good value: Modern standard

    ?
    Processor model
    What it is: The processor model is the chipset or SoC that powers the watch's performance, connectivity, and efficiency.
    When it matters: When you care about app responsiveness, platform generation, and long-term feature support.

    Importance: LOW

    Good value: modern smartwatch chipset

    ?
    RAM
    What it is: The amount of working memory available for apps, watch faces, and background tasks.
    When it matters: When you want apps and menus to feel smooth.

    Importance: MEDIUM

    Good value: >=1 GB

    2 GB
    Garmin Swim 2 has 2 GB of RAM which is larger than the RAM in 67.3% of smartwatches and equal to that of 16.5% of smartwatches.
    Internal storage
    What it is: Built-in storage for apps, music, watch faces, and other local data.
    When it matters: When you want more room for apps, music, or offline data.

    Importance: MEDIUM

    Good value: >=8 GB

    ?
    External memory slot
    What it is: A slot for expandable storage such as a memory card, if the watch provides one.
    When it matters: When you want more room for apps, music, or offline data.

    Importance: LOW

    no
    Garmin Swim 2 does not include an external memory slot. 0.3% of smartwatches include an external memory slot.
    Show more

    Garmin Swim 2 vs the average smartwatch

    • Has HRV tracking
      Garmin Swim 2 supports HRV tracking, the average smartwatch does not. 38.2% of smartwatches support HRV tracking.
      What it is: Measurement of heart-rate variability, the change in timing between heartbeats.
      When it matters: When you want health data from your wrist during the day or night.

      Importance: MEDIUM

      Garmin Swim 2 supports HRV tracking, the average smartwatch does not. 38.2% of smartwatches support HRV tracking.
    • Supports Emergency SOS
      Garmin Swim 2 includes Emergency SOS, the average smartwatch does not. 42.4% of smartwatches include Emergency SOS.
      SOS feature has implementation limits (phone/app/subscription/activity dependent).
      What it is: An emergency feature that can contact help or alert trusted people from the watch.
      When it matters: When you want extra help in an emergency.

      Importance: HIGH

      Garmin Swim 2 includes Emergency SOS, the average smartwatch does not. 42.4% of smartwatches include Emergency SOS.
    • More advanced operating system
      Garmin Swim 2 runs a more advanced operating system than the average smartwatch (Garmin OS vs Proprietary OS).
      What it is: The software platform that runs the watch interface, apps, and core functions.
      When it matters: When you care about apps, features, and long-term support.

      Importance: HIGH

      Garmin Swim 2 runs a more advanced operating system than the average smartwatch (Garmin OS vs Proprietary OS).Garmin OS vs Proprietary OS
    • Supports third-party apps
      Garmin Swim 2 supports third-party apps, the average smartwatch does not. 47.6% of smartwatches support third-party apps.
      What it is: Support for installing or using apps from developers beyond the watch maker.
      When it matters: When you care about apps, features, and long-term support.

      Importance: MEDIUM

      Garmin Swim 2 supports third-party apps, the average smartwatch does not. 47.6% of smartwatches support third-party apps.
    • Has sweat tracking
      Garmin Swim 2 tracks perspiration, the average smartwatch does not. 11% of smartwatches track perspiration.
      Perspiration tracking may be estimated from activity data in companion apps.
      What it is: Support for sweat-related sensing or estimates tied to perspiration during wear or training.
      When it matters: When you want health data from your wrist during the day or night.

      Importance: LOW

      Garmin Swim 2 tracks perspiration, the average smartwatch does not. 11% of smartwatches track perspiration.
    • 1 GB more RAM
      Garmin Swim 2 has more RAM than the average smartwatch (2 GB vs 1 GB). The average smartwatch includes 1 GB of RAM.
      What it is: The amount of working memory available for apps, watch faces, and background tasks.
      When it matters: When you want apps and menus to feel smooth.

      Importance: MEDIUM

      Good value: >=1 GB

      Garmin Swim 2 has more RAM than the average smartwatch (2 GB vs 1 GB). The average smartwatch includes 1 GB of RAM.2 GB vs 1 GB
    • Supports Galileo
      Garmin Swim 2 supports Galileo navigation, the average smartwatch does not. 38.7% of smartwatches support Galileo navigation.
      What it is: Support for Galileo satellites alongside other positioning systems.
      When it matters: When you run, ride, hike, or navigate without relying on your phone.

      Importance: MEDIUM

      Garmin Swim 2 supports Galileo navigation, the average smartwatch does not. 38.7% of smartwatches support Galileo navigation.
    • Has external HR monitor
      Garmin Swim 2 supports external heart rate monitor compatibility, the average smartwatch does not. 41.3% of smartwatches support external heart rate monitor compatibility.
      What it is: Compatibility with external chest straps or other heart-rate transmitters.
      When it matters: When you want the watch to work with fitness gear and other accessories.

      Importance: LOW

      Garmin Swim 2 supports external heart rate monitor compatibility, the average smartwatch does not. 41.3% of smartwatches support external heart rate monitor compatibility.
    • Has HRV tracking
      Garmin Swim 2 supports HRV tracking, the average smartwatch does not. 38.2% of smartwatches support HRV tracking.
    • Has sweat tracking
      Garmin Swim 2 tracks perspiration, the average smartwatch does not. 11% of smartwatches track perspiration.
    • Has weight tracking
      Garmin Swim 2 supports weight tracking, the average smartwatch does not. 39.2% of smartwatches support weight tracking.
    • Supports water intake tracking
      Garmin Swim 2 tracks water intake, the average smartwatch does not. 48.2% of smartwatches track water intake.
    • Has external HR monitor
      Garmin Swim 2 supports external heart rate monitor compatibility, the average smartwatch does not. 41.3% of smartwatches support external heart rate monitor compatibility.
    • Supports Galileo
      Garmin Swim 2 supports Galileo navigation, the average smartwatch does not. 38.7% of smartwatches support Galileo navigation.
    • Stronger display glass
      Garmin Swim 2 uses chemically strengthened glass display glass, while the average smartwatch uses mineral glass.
    • 9 g lighter weight
      Garmin Swim 2 is lighter than the average smartwatch (36 g vs 45 g). The average smartwatch weighs 45 g.
    • 2 mm narrower band
      Garmin Swim 2 has a narrower band width than the average smartwatch (20 mm vs 22.0 mm). The average smartwatch band is 22.0 mm wide.
    • Supports Emergency SOS
      Garmin Swim 2 includes Emergency SOS, the average smartwatch does not. 42.4% of smartwatches include Emergency SOS.
    • More advanced operating system
      Garmin Swim 2 runs a more advanced operating system than the average smartwatch (Garmin OS vs Proprietary OS).
    • Supports third-party apps
      Garmin Swim 2 supports third-party apps, the average smartwatch does not. 47.6% of smartwatches support third-party apps.
    • 1 GB more RAM
      Garmin Swim 2 has more RAM than the average smartwatch (2 GB vs 1 GB). The average smartwatch includes 1 GB of RAM.

    Total
    Overall
    Health
    Fitness
    Connectivity
    Display & Design
    Smart features
    Hardware
    • No blood oxygen
      Garmin Swim 2 does not support blood oxygen monitoring, the average smartwatch does. 64.4% of smartwatches support blood oxygen monitoring.
      Readings are for wellness use, not medical diagnosis.
    • No elevation tracking
      Garmin Swim 2 does not support elevation tracking, the average smartwatch does. 62.7% of smartwatches support elevation tracking.
    • No gyroscope
      Garmin Swim 2 does not include a gyroscope, the average smartwatch does. 64.6% of smartwatches include a gyroscope.
    • No routes
      Garmin Swim 2 does not support route support, the average smartwatch does. 50.4% of smartwatches support route support.
    • 75 fewer exercise profiles
      Garmin Swim 2 supports fewer exercise modes than the average smartwatch (5 vs 80). The average smartwatch supports 80 exercise modes.
    • 142 mAh smaller battery capacity
      Garmin Swim 2 has a smaller battery capacity than the average smartwatch (158 mAh vs 300 mAh). The average smartwatch battery is 300 mAh.
    • 7 h shorter GPS battery life
      Garmin Swim 2 lasts less with GPS on than the average smartwatch (13 h vs 20 h). The average smartwatch lasts 20 h.
    • 8 h shorter training battery life
      Garmin Swim 2 lasts less in training mode than the average smartwatch (12 h vs 20 h). The average smartwatch lasts 20 h.
      Up to 12 hours in gps mode.
    • Older Bluetooth version
      Garmin Swim 2 supports an older Bluetooth version than the average smartwatch (4.2 vs 5.0). The average smartwatch uses 5.0.
    • Basic display type
      Garmin Swim 2 uses MIP LCD display technology, while the average smartwatch features AMOLED.
    • 0.36 inch smaller screen size
      Garmin Swim 2 has a smaller screen size than the average smartwatch (1 inch vs 1.40 inch). The average smartwatch screen is 1.40 inch.
    • Lower resolution
      Garmin Swim 2 has a display resolution of 208x 208, while the average smartwatch reaches 352x 430.
    • No ambient light sensor
      Garmin Swim 2 does not include an ambient light sensor, the average smartwatch does. 60.5% of smartwatches include an ambient light sensor.
    • 43 ppi lower pixel density
      Garmin Swim 2 has a lower pixel density than the average smartwatch (283 ppi vs 326 ppi). The average smartwatch display reaches 326 ppi.
    • 100 nits lower display brightness
      Garmin Swim 2 has lower display brightness than the average smartwatch (500 nits nits vs 600 nits nits). The average smartwatch reaches 600 nits nits.
    • No touch screen
      Garmin Swim 2 does not have a touch screen, the average smartwatch does. 91.8% of smartwatches have a touch screen.
    • No music playback
      Garmin Swim 2 does not support music playback, the average smartwatch does. 53.9% of smartwatches support music playback.
    • No call answering
      Garmin Swim 2 does not support call answering, the average smartwatch does. 57% of smartwatches support call answering.
    • No voice commands
      Garmin Swim 2 does not support voice commands, the average smartwatch does. 64.5% of smartwatches support voice commands.
    • No voice assistant
      Garmin Swim 2 does not support voice assistants, the average smartwatch does. 68% of smartwatches support voice assistants.
    • No smart alarm
      Garmin Swim 2 does not support a smart alarm, the average smartwatch does. 52.7% of smartwatches support this feature.
    • No camera remote control
      Garmin Swim 2 does not include built-in camera remote control, the average smartwatch does. 85.2% of smartwatches that are equipped with a camera include built-in camera remote control.
    • No passcode
      Garmin Swim 2 does not include passcode protection, the average smartwatch does. 68.5% of smartwatches include passcode protection.
    • No call control
      Garmin Swim 2 does not offer call control, the average smartwatch does. 90.1% of smartwatches offer call control.
    • No speaker
      Garmin Swim 2 does not include a built-in speaker, the average smartwatch does. 54.7% of smartwatches include a built-in speaker.
    • 1 fewer microphones
      Garmin Swim 2 has fewer microphones than the average smartwatch (0 vs 1). The average smartwatch includes 1 microphones.
    • 2 year/s older release date
      Garmin Swim 2 is an older model than the average smartwatch (2,019 vs 2,021). The average smartwatch was released in 2,021.
      October 2,019
    • No blood oxygen
      Garmin Swim 2 does not support blood oxygen monitoring, the average smartwatch does. 64.4% of smartwatches support blood oxygen monitoring.
      Readings are for wellness use, not medical diagnosis.
      What it is: A wrist-based feature that estimates blood oxygen saturation over time.
      When it matters: When you want health data from your wrist during the day or night.

      Importance: HIGH

      Garmin Swim 2 does not support blood oxygen monitoring, the average smartwatch does. 64.4% of smartwatches support blood oxygen monitoring.
    • No speaker
      Garmin Swim 2 does not include a built-in speaker, the average smartwatch does. 54.7% of smartwatches include a built-in speaker.
      What it is: An onboard speaker for calls, prompts, alarms, or media playback.
      When it matters: When you want audio, calls, or voice features on the watch itself.

      Importance: LOW

      Garmin Swim 2 does not include a built-in speaker, the average smartwatch does. 54.7% of smartwatches include a built-in speaker.
    • No elevation tracking
      Garmin Swim 2 does not support elevation tracking, the average smartwatch does. 62.7% of smartwatches support elevation tracking.
      What it is: Tracking of climbed, descended, or current elevation during activities.
      When it matters: When you run, ride, hike, or navigate without relying on your phone.

      Importance: MEDIUM

      Garmin Swim 2 does not support elevation tracking, the average smartwatch does. 62.7% of smartwatches support elevation tracking.
    • No music playback
      Garmin Swim 2 does not support music playback, the average smartwatch does. 53.9% of smartwatches support music playback.
      What it is: Playback of music or audio directly from the watch, with or without a phone nearby.
      When it matters: When you want audio, calls, or voice features on the watch itself.

      Importance: MEDIUM

      Garmin Swim 2 does not support music playback, the average smartwatch does. 53.9% of smartwatches support music playback.
    • No gyroscope
      Garmin Swim 2 does not include a gyroscope, the average smartwatch does. 64.6% of smartwatches include a gyroscope.
      What it is: A motion sensor that measures rotation and helps interpret wrist movement more accurately.
      When it matters: When you track workouts and want better training data.

      Importance: MEDIUM

      Garmin Swim 2 does not include a gyroscope, the average smartwatch does. 64.6% of smartwatches include a gyroscope.
    • Basic display type
      Garmin Swim 2 uses MIP LCD display technology, while the average smartwatch features AMOLED.
      What it is: The screen technology used by the watch, such as AMOLED, OLED, or memory-in-pixel LCD.
      When it matters: When you want the screen to be easy to read at a glance.

      Importance: HIGH

      Garmin Swim 2 uses MIP LCD display technology, while the average smartwatch features AMOLED.MIP LCD vs AMOLED
    • 0.36 inch smaller screen size
      Garmin Swim 2 has a smaller screen size than the average smartwatch (1 inch vs 1.40 inch). The average smartwatch screen is 1.40 inch.
      What it is: The diagonal measurement of the visible display area, usually expressed in inches.
      When it matters: When you want the screen to be easy to read at a glance.

      Importance: HIGH

      Good value: >=1.5 inch

      Garmin Swim 2 has a smaller screen size than the average smartwatch (1 inch vs 1.40 inch). The average smartwatch screen is 1.40 inch.1.04 inch vs 1.40 inch
    • No call answering
      Garmin Swim 2 does not support call answering, the average smartwatch does. 57% of smartwatches support call answering.
      What it is: The ability to answer an incoming call directly from the watch.
      When it matters: When you want to handle calls or alerts without taking out your phone.

      Importance: LOW

      Garmin Swim 2 does not support call answering, the average smartwatch does. 57% of smartwatches support call answering.
    Total
    Overall
    Health
    Fitness
    Battery
    Connectivity
    Display & Design
    Smart features
    Hardware

    Graphic comparison of Garmin Swim 2 and other Smartwatches

    Attribute category
    Attribute
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    Third-party reviews

    amazon
    4.2
    1655 Reviews
    amazon
    4.4
    1079 Reviews

    (Reviews last updated: Apr 2026)

    What customers like about Garmin Swim 2?

    • Lightweight and comfortable design (only 36-38g) that is unobtrusive in the water
    • Physical button navigation is reliable and easier to use with wet hands than a touchscreen
    • Dedicated swim-specific metrics such as SWOLF, stroke count, and auto-rest intervals
    • Effective underwater heart rate monitoring directly from the wrist
    • Sunlight-readable transflective MIP display that remains clear underwater
    • Support for both pool and open-water swimming with specialized GPS tracking

    What customers dislike about Garmin Swim 2?

    • Occasional inaccuracies in pool lap counting, sometimes adding or missing lengths
    • Significant battery drain when using GPS for open-water swims
    • Limited general smartwatch features compared to competitors (lacks Garmin Pay, music storage, and full app support)
    • Small 1.04-inch screen can make reading detailed phone notifications difficult
    • Basic secondary tracking for running and cycling lacks advanced performance metrics found on Forerunner models
    • GPS signal can be difficult to maintain in open water if the arm stays submerged for too long

    Expert reviews

    W
    wareable.com
    20/01/2020
    Garmin Swim 2 review

    The Garmin Swim 2 is a lightweight, specialized GPS watch tailored for swimmers, featuring, open-water tracking and accurate, wrist-based, underwater heart rate monitoring. It provides advanced, pool-specific metrics such as auto-rest, Critical Swim Speed (CSS), and stroke-type recognition, making it an affordable alternative to higher-end, multisport Garmin devices. While it boasts...Read more

    Y
    yourswimlog.com
    27/02/2026
    Garmin Swim 2 Watch Review: A Simplified Wearable for Swimming Next Step: Would you like me to summarise the key pros and cons from these reviews to h...

    The Garmin Swim 2 is a specialized, lightweight (38g) wearable designed for detailed swim metrics without the bulk of high-end, multi-sport watches. Key pros include an intuitive five-button interface, a highly readable "always-on" display, and accurate tracking for both pool and open-water, including advanced features like Critical Swim Speed (CSS) and Auto Rest. While it...Read more

    2
    220triathlon.com
    27/02/2026
    Garmin Swim 2 watch review Would you like me to summarise the key pros and cons mentioned across these reviews?

    The Garmin Swim 2 is a compact, 38g swimming-specific watch designed for pool and open-water, featuring key tools like a Critical Swim Speed (CSS) test and real-time, vibrating pace alerts. It offers extensive,,,,,, metrics including SWOLF and heart rate, designed specifically for dedicated swimmers. Pros include impressive GPS, GLONASS, and Galileo accuracy in open water, along...Read more

    C
    coachweb.com
    03/01/2024
    Garmin Swim 2 Review - Coach

    The Garmin Swim 2 is a specialized GPS smartwatch designed for pool and open-water swimmers, featuring a dedicated swimming mode to track lengths, distance, and stroke type. It includes advanced features like 'Critical Swim Speed' (CSS) tracking and 'Auto Rest', which automatically pauses and resumes intervals. The device is praised for its slim, lightweight design and physical...Read more

    T
    triathlonmagazine.ca
    14/08/2020
    Triathlon Sport Watches Review: Garmin Swim 2

    The Garmin Swim 2 is a lightweight, specialized GPS watch tailored for swimmers, featuring advanced metrics like Critical Swim Speed (CSS), auto-rest, and underwater heart rate monitoring. It offers precise pool and open-water tracking, with an easy-to-use button interface that outperforms touchscreens in wet conditions. While it includes basic, stable GPS tracking for open water, a...Read more

    T
    techradar.com
    01/06/2020
    Garmin Swim 2 review - TechRadar

    The Garmin Swim 2 offers robust, specialized swimming metrics, including accurate, wrist-based heart rate monitoring and, in a significant design upgrade, physical buttons for reliable, wet-finger operation. The lightweight 38g watch is highly recommended for its dedicated pool and open-water tracking, featuring a clear, transflective display. However, the device has limitations,...Read more

    D
    dcrainmaker.com
    15/10/2019
    Garmin Swim 2 GPS Watch In-Depth Review

    The Garmin Swim 2 is a specialized GPS smartwatch designed for swimmers, featuring a dedicated open-water mode that utilizes a unique algorithm to track distance and pace while submerged. It introduces a reliable wrist-based heart rate sensor that functions underwater, eliminating the need for a chest strap, alongside advanced pool features like Auto Rest and Critical Swim Speed...Read more

    K
    kathleenbober.com
    20/05/2020
    Garmin Swim 2 GPS Watch - Kathleen Bober

    The Garmin Swim 2 is a specialized, 36g lightweight tracker designed for swimmers, featuring advanced pool and open-water metrics like SWOLF, stroke recognition, and drill logging. It boasts crucial improvements over its predecessor, including reliable underwater heart rate monitoring and 24/7 health tracking. However, the review highlights significant, frustrating drawbacks,...Read more

    O
    outdoortest.info
    14/12/2021
    Garmin Swim 2 - Outdoor Test

    The Garmin Swim 2 is a lightweight, compact GPS watch tailored for swimmers, featuring a highly legible, sunlight-readable display and a reliable five-button interface for wet-finger operation. It excels at tracking advanced metrics like SWOLF scores, stroke count, and underwater heart rate, providing approximately one week of battery life in smartwatch mode. Key pros include its...Read more

    (Translated)Show original
    D
    docswim.de
    16/01/2020
    Garmin Swim 2 Review - DOC SWIM

    The DOC SWIM review characterizes the Garmin Swim 2 as a highly precise, specialized tool for swimmers, featuring reliable underwater optical heart rate monitoring and a lightweight, 36g design. Key advantages include the Auto Rest feature for automatic lap detection and the Critical Swim Speed (CSS) metric for tracking training intensity. The device offers robust tracking in both...Read more

    (Translated)Show original
    X
    xmix.ch
    04/01/2020
    The new Garmin Swim 2 in a practical test - World of Triathlon

    The Garmin Swim 2 is a lightweight (38g) specialized swimming watch featuring a 1.04-inch always-on display, bringing open-water GPS and underwater heart rate monitoring to the series. It provides advanced, accurate metrics such as Critical Swim Speed (CSS), automatic stroke detection, and useful, physical, button-based controls for wet environments. However, the device has...Read more

    (Translated)Show original
    N
    nakan.ch
    27 avril 2020
    Garmin Swim 2 review: Put to the ultimate test

    The Garmin Swim 2 is a specialized, lightweight (36g) GPS watch tailored for swimmers, featuring advanced metrics like "Auto Rest" detection, Critical Swim Speed (CSS), and underwater heart rate monitoring. While it excels in tracking both pool and open-water sessions, it has limitations, including occasional lap counting inaccuracies, a small 1-inch screen, and a lack of advanced...Read more

    (Translated)Show original
    M
    montre-cardio-gps.fr
    16/10/2019
    Garmin Swim 2: A GPS Swimming Watch

    The Garmin Swim 2 is a specialized, lightweight 42mm GPS watch designed for aquatic athletes, featuring advanced tracking for both pool and open-water swimming. It excels in providing metrics like Critical Swim Speed (CSS), SWOLF efficiency, and automatic rest tracking, while maintaining high readability in direct sunlight. While highly praised for its swimming functionality,...Read more

    (Translated)Show original
    T
    triatlonweb.es
    24/02/2020
    Introducing the Garmin Swim 2: The GPS Watch

    The Garmin Swim 2 is a specialized, lightweight (36g) GPS watch tailored for swimmers and triathletes, offering advanced metrics like Critical Swim Speed (CSS) and "Auto Rest". It excels with built-in open-water GPS and reliable wrist-based heart rate monitoring, removing the need for a chest strap. While it supports other sports, it lacks the advanced, high-end analytics found in...Read more

    (Translated)Show original
    S
    sportlife.es
    07/12/2019
    Garmin Swim 2 Pros and Cons - Sportlife

    The Sportlife.es review positions the Garmin Swim 2 as a specialized, lightweight (36g) tool that effectively bridges the gap between basic trackers and high-end multisport watches. Key advantages include accurate underwater optical heart rate monitoring and, for performance optimization, specific features like Critical Swim Speed (CSS) and turn-based pacing alerts. The device also...Read more

    (Translated)Show original
    P
    premarathon.com
    18/10/2019
    Garmin Swim 2 Review for Pool and Open Water Swimming (GPS)

    The Garmin Swim 2 is a lightweight, 42mm specialized GPS smartwatch designed specifically for pool and open-water swimmers, featuring a sunlight-readable, trans-flective display. It boasts key advantages like, integrated wrist-based heart rate monitoring, specialized tracking for CSS, Auto Rest, and drills, and a physical five-button interface ideal for wet conditions. However, the...Read more

    (Translated)Show original
    B
    bpm-power.com
    15 Settembre 2020
    Garmin Swim 2 Sports Watch Review - Perfect for Swimmers!

    The Garmin Swim 2 is a lightweight, specialized smartwatch designed for aquatic performance, featuring a durable 5ATM-rated construction and a 5-button interface that prevents navigation issues in water. It provides detailed, specialized metrics including heart rate, stroke type, and turn tracking. Priced at approximately 200 Euro, the device serves as a cost-effective alternative...Read more

    (Translated)Show original
    T
    tweakers.net
    06/09/2022
    Thorough and independent Garmin Swim 2 reviews

    According to user reviews on Tweakers, the Garmin Swim 2 is lauded as a specialized, lightweight (36g) tool for dedicated swimmers, featuring a five-button interface that is easy to use with wet hands. The watch excels at underwater heart rate tracking and provides advanced metrics such as SWOLF, stroke count, and Critical Swim Speed (CSS). However, the device is criticized for...Read more

    (Translated)Show original

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