Samsung
Galaxy Watch 5
2022 · Fitness + health
82
/ 100
From $279
VS
Garmin
Garmin Vivoactive 5
2023 · Fitness + health
82
/ 100
From $299
Specdex verdict
Dead heat — it comes down to priorities.
In our weighted Specdex score, Galaxy Watch 5 lands at 82 and Garmin Vivoactive 5 at 82. With scores tied, the decision hinges on which sub-scores matter most to you.
Pick Galaxy Watch 5 if…
- ✓Multi-day fitness tracking
- ✓GPS + heart rate
- ✓Notification mirroring
Pick Garmin Vivoactive 5 if…
- ✓Multi-day fitness tracking
- ✓GPS + heart rate
- ✓Notification mirroring
Galaxy Watch 5 82
vs 82 Garmin Vivoactive 5
Score breakdown
Galaxy Watch 5
82 battery 72
display 88
fitness 82
health 80
durability 86
Garmin Vivoactive 5
82 battery 94
display 88
fitness 82
health 80
durability 86
Specs side-by-side
| Spec | Galaxy Watch 5 | Garmin Vivoactive 5 |
|---|---|---|
| Release year | 2022 | 2023 |
Galaxy Watch 5
Pros
- +Multi-day fitness tracking
- +GPS + heart rate
- +Notification mirroring
Cons
- −Battery life varies dramatically
- −Companion phone required
- −Screen-on drains battery
Garmin Vivoactive 5
Pros
- +Multi-day fitness tracking
- +GPS + heart rate
- +Notification mirroring
Cons
- −Battery life varies dramatically
- −Companion phone required
- −Screen-on drains battery
FAQ: Galaxy Watch 5 vs Garmin Vivoactive 5
Which is better, Galaxy Watch 5 or Garmin Vivoactive 5? +
Both score 82 on our weighted rubric — tied. Your best pick depends on the sub-scores above.
Is Galaxy Watch 5 worth the price? +
At $279, Galaxy Watch 5 delivers a Specdex score of 82 — strongest in display.
Is Garmin Vivoactive 5 worth the price? +
At $299, Garmin Vivoactive 5 delivers a Specdex score of 82 — strongest in battery.
Does Galaxy Watch 5 or Garmin Vivoactive 5 last longer? +
Based on our long-term update and support ratings, both ship with multi-year support. Battery and reliability scores are visible in the breakdown above.