Garmin Forerunner 970 vs Garmin Fenix 8 Solar Sapphire

The Forerunner 970 is the better pick for runners and triathletes who want the lightest, most focused training watch. The Fenix 8 Solar Sapphire is the tougher, longer-lasting all-rounder for people who split time between trails, water and the gym. Both use titanium cases, sapphire lenses and AMOLED screens, but the Fenix adds solar charging, a speaker and mic, Wi-Fi and a 40m dive rating, while the Forerunner stays lighter and simpler. Owners rate the Forerunner higher, and its 26-hour GPS figure is the one to check against the Fenix's solar-dependent runtime.

• Choose the Forerunner 970 if you race road or trail and want a light, focused running watch with full-color maps, multi-band GPS and a clear training-readiness picture.
• Choose the Fenix 8 Solar Sapphire if you want one rugged watch for diving, hiking, strength work and calls, and you value solar charging and long battery life over minimum weight.