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Have you been wondering how long a Garmin watch can last before needing a replacement?
If yes, then you are in the right place for an answer.
Garmin watches are known for their durability, long battery life, and reliable performance, making them one of the best choices for fitness tracking and outdoor adventures.
However, like all electronic devices, they don’t last forever.
So what happens when your Garmin watch starts showing signs of wear and tear?
In this guide, you will learn how long a Garmin watch typically lasts, what factors affect its lifespan, and how you can extend its longevity.
How Long Does a Garmin Watch Last?
A Garmin watch can last anywhere from 5 to 7 years, depending on usage, maintenance, and model.
Some users have reported their watches lasting well over 7 years, while others have experienced issues within just a few years.
From the top of our heads, the main factors that determine how long your Garmin watch will last include:
- Battery lifespan
- Software updates and support
- Build quality and materials
- Exposure to extreme conditions
- How often the watch is charged
If you take good care of your Garmin watch, it can last a very long time, but eventually, the battery or hardware may wear out.
How Long Does a Garmin Watch Battery Last?
The battery life of a Garmin watch depends on the model and how you use it.
Typical Garmin Watch Battery Life Per Charge:
- Basic models (e.g., Forerunner 45) – 7 to 14 days
- Mid-range models (e.g., Forerunner 255, Venu 2) – 10 to 14 days
- Advanced models (e.g., Fenix 7, Epix 2, Enduro) – 14 to 50+ days (with power-saving features)
- Solar models (e.g., Instinct Solar, Fenix 7 Solar) – Can extend battery life significantly with sun exposure
However, battery lifespan over time is different from battery life per charge.
After 2 to 3 years of regular use, most Garmin watch batteries will start to degrade, holding less charge than when they were new.
By 5 years, you may notice significant battery drain or a need to charge more frequently.
How to Extend the Lifespan of a Garmin Watch
If you want your Garmin watch to last as long as possible, follow these tips:
1. Avoid Overcharging
Leaving your Garmin watch on the charger for too long can cause unnecessary battery stress.
Charge only when needed, and try not to let the battery drop below 20% regularly.
2. Use Battery-Saving Features
Garmin watches come with features like Battery Saver Mode, UltraTrac GPS, and Power Modes to extend battery life.
Using these wisely can reduce battery wear over time.
3. Keep Software Updated
Regular software updates improve performance and fix bugs, which can help your watch run efficiently for longer.
4. Protect It from Extreme Conditions
Avoid exposing your Garmin watch to excessive heat, cold, or humidity, as this can damage internal components.
5. Replace the Battery When Needed
If your Garmin watch is several years old and the battery isn’t lasting long, replacing the battery instead of getting a new watch might be an option.
Garmin doesn’t offer official battery replacements, but some third-party repair services do.
When Should You Replace a Garmin Watch?
If your Garmin watch is still working but showing these signs, it might be time for an upgrade:
- Battery drains too quickly (even after power-saving settings)
- Frequent software crashes or lag
- Hardware issues (unresponsive buttons, touchscreen problems, sensor failures)
- Lack of software updates or support
If your watch is over 5 years old and struggling to keep up with your needs, upgrading to a newer model with improved features and longer battery life might be worth it.
Conclusion
Garmin watches are built to last, and with proper care, they can keep working for 5 to 7 years or more.
However, battery lifespan, software updates, and general wear and tear can affect their longevity.
If you take good care of your Garmin watch by charging it properly, keeping it updated, and avoiding extreme conditions, you can maximize its lifespan.
If your watch starts experiencing battery issues, lag, or other hardware failures, it might be time to consider a replacement.
Just follow the tips in this guide carefully, and your Garmin watch should last for years to come!
Additional Reading:
Do Garmin Watches Require A Subscription?
Can You Wear A Garmin Watch In A Sauna?
Can Garmin Watch Detect Sleep Apnea?
Brianna is based in Minnesota in the US at the moment, and has been writing since 2017. She is currently a 3rd Year med student at the time of writing this.
