3 Garmin watches I want to see in 2026 — and top of the list is a true Forerunner 55 sequel
In 2025, Garmin launched a slew of new models, many of which made our list of the best Garmin watches. We’ve seen everything from a Fenix 8 Pro with a microLED display, the Garmin Venu
I don’t expect things to slow down in 2026 as Garmin looks to solidify its leadership position in the smartwatch space. While I don’t know what’s next, I think it’s fair to assume that some of Garmin’s most popular watches will get an update. Hopefully some older watches will get an upgrade as well.
1. Garmin Forerunner 65 (maybe Forerunner 70?)
It’s hard to predict where Garmin will go with its model numbers at the moment, especially after the launch of the Garmin Forerunner 570 as the successor to the Forerunner 265. What I do know is that the Forerunner 55 is a watch that’s starting to look a little old next to other Forerunner watches. Whether it’s a Forerunner 65 or a Forerunner 70, it might be time to get a new entry-level running watch from Garmin.
The excellent Garmin Forerunner 165 should arguably be considered the most beginner-friendly Garmin watch, but it’s not exactly cheap. When the Forerunner 55 launched in 2021, it cost less than $200 / £200 / AU$400. It is now possible to buy it for much less.
I would still like to see Garmin offer a more budget-friendly option in their lineup. Whether that means forgoing features like an AMOLED display, I think there would be an appetite for a sleek watch that can still deliver a solid tracking and smartwatch experience. Garmin also has new competitors at this price point. Mainly the excellent Coros Pace 3.
It doesn’t have to include all the latest voice-activated smartwatch features nor does it necessarily have to include features like maps. I’d like to see a successor to the Forerunner 55 that packs some of Garmin’s latest smart training and tracking features into a much more affordable package than the options currently available. I don’t think I’d be the only one who thought this would be a good idea.
2. Garmin Venu X2
Of all the many Garmin watches launching in 2025, the unveiling of the Venu X1 was the most surprising of all. When Garmin launched the Fenix E as a more affordable, albeit simplified, version of the Fenix 8, it seemed to be testing the waters with a watch to rival the Apple Watch Ultra. Then the Venu
I liked the Venu X1. It has managed to integrate most of Garmin’s best features. Although it took some adjusting to its size, it seemed like a good addition to an already bustling Garmin lineup.
However, it was lacking in some areas. Battery performance wasn’t fantastic, missing features like ECG and Garmin’s impressive dual-band GPS. It also lacked the LTE connectivity that Garmin later introduced on the Fenix 8 Pro.
Given the mostly positive reception the Venu X1 received, I expect and hope Garmin will give us a Venu X2. Next, I’d like to see it better optimized for Garmin’s latest operating system, largely designed for its many round watches. Hopefully it will get dual-band GPS and ECG upgrades, without affecting the already slim design. Hopefully the battery will get a big boost as well.
LTE connectivity would make it a better partner for the Apple Watch Ultra 3 (or Ultra 4), especially if the focus is on using these additional connectivity features for security scenarios as well as being able to make calls, without needing your phone nearby.
3. Garmin Instinct4/4E
The Instinct line is an exciting addition to the Garmin family of smartwatches. There is certainly room for a more affordable alternative to its Fenix series and the Instinct has arrived with a distinctive design that sets it apart from other watches.
The Instinct 3 saw Garmin take a similar design approach to the Fenix, giving you the option of an AMOLED or solar display. We still have a fun yet rugged look, useful features like a built-in flashlight, and most of Garmin’s best tracking and training features.
I don’t think Instinct leads anywhere. While I think the lack of features like maps will continue to be a big differentiator between the Instinct and Fenix lines, I would like to see a new Instinct show improvements in other departments.
An additional LTE variant would be a smart move, if Garmin can keep the price close to the current price of the Instinct 3. Giving this touchscreen support a color display has to be a must here. But most importantly, let’s not forget what makes using an Instinct different from any other Garmin watch. Embracing the split display and showing how splitting stats and features between the two can make it a more intuitive watch to go on adventures with.
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