Finding the right smartwatch for swimming isn’t as simple as picking the most expensive option or the brand with the flashiest marketing. The best swim watch needs accurate tracking, reliable water resistance, and features designed specifically for pool and open water use. After testing dozens of models and analyzing real-world swim tracking performance, we’ve compiled this guide to help you find the perfect watch for your aquatic fitness goals.
Whether you’re a competitive swimmer looking to improve your lap times, a triathlete training for open water events, or someone who just wants reliable swim tracking as part of a balanced fitness routine, this guide covers the top performers across different price points and use cases.
Best Overall: Apple Watch Ultra 2 delivers exceptional swim tracking with automatic stroke detection, pool length calibration, and a rugged design that handles both pool and open water swimming effortlessly. The battery life of 36 hours makes it suitable for long open water sessions.
Best Dedicated Swim Watch: Garmin Swim 2 was designed for swimmers, offering advanced metrics like SWOLF score, stroke type detection, and specialized pool swimming modes. It’s the most focused swim tracker on the market.
Best Value: Fitbit Charge 6 provides reliable swim tracking at a fraction of the cost of flagship models, with automatic lap counting and basic stroke detection that satisfies casual swimmers.
Our testing methodology focuses on real-world swimming conditions rather than laboratory benchmarks. Each watch undergoes at least 20 swim sessions across different pool sizes and open water environments before making our final recommendations.
We evaluate swim watches across several categories:
Water Resistance Verification: We confirm the water resistance rating (measured in ATM or meters) and test performance during extended water exposure, including dives to pool depths and open water swimming in various conditions.
Tracking Accuracy: Using underwater cameras and manual lap counting, we compare the watch’s lap count against actual strokes taken. We also measure distance accuracy against known pool lengths and GPS-tracked open water routes.
Stroke Detection: We assess how well each watch identifies different stroke styles (freestyle, backstroke, breaststroke, butterfly) and whether it correctly starts and stops recording based on your movements.
Post-Swim Data Analysis: We review the detailed metrics provided after each swim, including SWOLF scores, stroke counts, pace variations, and workout summaries.
Durability Underwater: We test button responsiveness when wet, screen visibility underwater, and overall build quality after repeated exposure to chlorinated pool water and saltwater.
The Apple Watch Ultra 2 represents Apple’s most serious attempt at creating a watch for serious swimmers, and it largely succeeds.
Water Resistance: 100 meters (10 ATM)
Swim Features: Automatic lap counting, stroke detection, distance tracking, workout routines, and a dedicated Depth app for recreational diving.
Price: $799
The Ultra 2 builds on the original Ultra’s strong foundation with improved sensors and the S9 SiP processor. During testing, lap counting accuracy exceeded 99% in standard 25-yard and 25-meter pools. The watch automatically detects when you start swimming and begins recording without requiring manual input.
What sets the Ultra 2 apart is its dual functionality. It’s equally capable tracking a pool workout as it is monitoring an open water swim with GPS tracking. The brighter display (up to 3000 nits) makes it easy to read your metrics even in direct sunlight reflecting off pool water.
The battery life of approximately 36 hours (longer in low-power modes) means you can track a full triathlon swim segment without worrying about dying mid-workout. However, the premium price puts it in a category where only serious swimmers or multi-sport athletes will see the full value.
Pros: Excellent accuracy, bright display, great app ecosystem, open water GPS
Cons: Premium price, battery life shorter than dedicated Garmin watches
If you primarily swim and want a watch designed specifically for that purpose, the Garmin Swim 2 remains the top choice in its category.
Water Resistance: 50 meters (5 ATM)
Swim Features: Pool swim tracking, open water swimming, stroke type detection, SWOLF scoring, drill logging, rest timer, and auto rest detection
Price: $449
Garmin designed the Swim 2 from the ground up with swimmers in mind. The interface prioritizes swim-specific metrics over general fitness tracking, making it immediately intuitive for pool swimmers. You can set your pool length directly on the watch, and it automatically calculates laps based on your stroke movements.
The SWOLF score (a combined measure of strokes per lap and time per lap) provides immediate feedback on swimming efficiency. This metric alone has helped countless swimmers improve their technique by providing a quantifiable target to beat.
Open water swimming mode uses GPS to track your route, though you should note that the smaller case size means the battery doesn’t last as long as larger Garmin multisport watches. Still, for sessions up to a few hours, performance is solid.
Pros: Purpose-built for swimming, excellent pool tracking, SWOLF scoring, drill logging
Cons: Limited smart features outside swimming, smaller display than Ultra 2
Triathletes need a watch that excels in all three disciplines, and the Forerunner 965 delivers excellent swim tracking alongside strong cycling and running performance.
Water Resistance: 50 meters (5 ATM)
Swim Features: Pool swimming, open water swimming, stroke detection, drill logging, auto lap, and multi-sport transitions
Price: $599
The Forerunner 965 inherits much of the swim-tracking technology from Garmin’s dedicated swim watch while adding the features triathletes need. The bright AMOLED display makes it easy to read pace and distance even while sighting during open water swims.
During testing, the stroke detection accurately identified freestyle, backstroke, and breaststroke in the majority of sessions. The transition tracking between swimming and other sports works seamlessly, automatically switching activity modes when you start running or cycling.
The battery life of up to 23 days in smartwatch mode and 12 hours in GPS mode comfortably handles Ironman-distance triathlons, making it a versatile choice for endurance athletes.
Pros: Excellent multi-sport integration, bright display, strong battery life, comprehensive metrics
Cons: Pricey for swim-only use, slightly larger case
The Apple Watch Series 9 offers solid swim tracking for everyday athletes who also want a full-featured smartwatch for daily wear.
Water Resistance: 50 meters (5 ATM)
Swim Features: Pool swimming tracking, lap counting, stroke detection, calories burned, distance tracking
Price: $399
While not as specialized as the Ultra 2, the Series 9 handles pool swimming competently for most casual swimmers. The automatic workout detection works well, recognizing when you begin swimming and prompting you to start a swim workout.
Lap counting accuracy in standard pools approaches that of the Ultra 2, though stroke type detection is more limited. For swimmers who primarily do freestyle laps and aren’t concerned about stroke-specific metrics, this won’t be a limitation.
The smaller, lighter profile makes it more comfortable for all-day wear, and the comprehensive smart features (notifications, apps, cellular option) add value beyond swimming. If you want one watch that does everything well rather than one that excels at swimming specifically, the Series 9 fits the bill.
Pros: Great all-around smartwatch, comfortable wear, good pool tracking, more affordable than Ultra
Cons: Limited stroke detection, shorter battery life, not ideal for serious open water
Samsung’s flagship watch offers competitive swim tracking for users invested in the Samsung ecosystem.
Water Resistance: 50 meters (5 ATM) + IP68
Swim Features: Pool swimming tracking, lap counting, stroke detection, automatic workout detection, post-swim analysis
Price: $329
The Galaxy Watch 6 improved swim tracking significantly over previous generations. The automatic lap counting works reliably in standard pool lengths, and the workout tracking provides basic metrics including distance, time, pace, and calories.
Stroke detection identifies the four main competitive strokes, though accuracy varies more than with Garmin or Apple watches. The swim tracking interface is clean and easy to read during workouts, with large metrics that remain visible through water splashes.
Samsung Health provides reasonable post-swim analysis, though it lacks the advanced efficiency metrics like SWOLF that dedicated swim watches offer. For casual swimmers or those already in the Samsung ecosystem, it represents a competent choice.
Pros: Good value, solid Samsung integration, reliable pool tracking
Cons: Stroke detection less accurate than competitors, limited advanced swim metrics
The Fitbit Sense 2 prioritizes overall health tracking while providing capable swim monitoring for fitness-focused users.
Water Resistance: 50 meters (5 ATM)
Swim Features: Pool swim tracking, lap counting, duration, calories, heart rate during swim
Price: $249
Fitbit’s approach to swim tracking emphasizes simplicity over complexity. The Sense 2 automatically detects pool swimming and records your workout, counting laps based on movement patterns. You can set your preferred pool length in the settings.
The standout feature for swimmers is the continuous heart rate monitoring during swims, which provides valuable data about workout intensity. This integrates with Fitbit’s overall health tracking, showing how swimming impacts your daily activity zones and recovery metrics.
The stress management features and EDA sensor (which measures electrodermal activity) add unique health insights not found on dedicated sports watches. If you value comprehensive health tracking alongside solid swim metrics, the Sense 2 offers good value.
Pros: Excellent health features, comfortable design, good value, continuous HR during swims
Cons: Limited swim-specific metrics, no open water mode
The Garmin Fenix 7 is built for extreme outdoor adventures but includes sophisticated swim tracking that handles both pool and open water.
Water Resistance: 100 meters (10 ATM)
Swim Features: Pool swimming, open water swimming, stroke detection, drill logging, pool length calibration, advanced workout profiles
Price: $799
The Fenix 7 represents Garmin’s premium outdoor multisport watch, and the swim tracking capabilities match its rugged exterior. The multi-sport profiles handle everything from simple pool workouts to complex open water swims with tides and currents.
We tested the Fenix 7 in ocean conditions including waves and salt water, and it performed admirably. The GPS tracking for open water swims proved accurate even in challenging conditions, and the battery life of up to 57 hours in GPS mode exceeds most competitors.
The titanium or stainless steel bezel and case feel nearly indestructible, making this an excellent choice for athletes who combine swimming with mountain biking, trail running, or mountaineering. You’re paying a premium for the rugged build, but you get a watch that lasts for years.
Pros: Extremely durable, excellent open water tracking, incredible battery life, multi-sport versatility
Cons: Very expensive, heavy on wrist, complex interface
Whoop takes a different approach to fitness tracking, focusing on strain, recovery, and optimized training rather than traditional workout logging.
Water Resistance: 100 meters (10 ATM)
Swim Features: Swim detection, strain tracking, heart rate monitoring, workout intensity tracking
Price: $239 (annual subscription required)
The Whoop 4.0 automatically detects swimming workouts and measures the cardiovascular strain based on heart rate response. Rather than counting laps or measuring pace, it calculates how physically demanding your swim was and adds that to your daily strain score.
This approach appeals to athletes focused on training load management and recovery optimization. The continuous heart rate monitoring provides insights into how your body responds to different swim intensities, helping you balance hard workouts with adequate recovery.
The lack of traditional lap counting might frustrate swimmers who want precise distance and pace data, but for those interested in the physiological impact of their swimming, Whoop provides unique value.
Pros: Unique strain-based analysis, continuous monitoring, comfortable band, comprehensive recovery metrics
Cons: No lap counting, requires subscription, less traditional workout tracking
Polar’s flagship multisport watch delivers advanced swim metrics designed for serious competitive swimmers.
Water Resistance: 50 meters (5 ATM)
Swim Features: Pool swimming, open water swimming, stroke-specific analysis, distance per stroke, SWOLF, breath tracking
Price: $599
The Polar Vantage V3 offers some of the most detailed stroke analysis available outside of professional swim computers. It measures distance per stroke, which helps swimmers optimize their technique for efficiency. The breath tracking feature, while not perfect, provides unique feedback on breathing patterns during different strokes.
The Recovery Pro feature combines swim strain data with overall recovery metrics to recommend optimal training intensity. This integrated approach helps performance swimmers avoid overtraining while maximizing improvement.
The compact design feels natural in the water, and the buttons remain easy to operate even with wet hands. Polar’s training software provides detailed analysis of swim sessions, though the learning curve is steeper than simpler swim trackers.
Pros: Advanced stroke analysis, Recovery Pro integration, detailed swim metrics, compact design
Cons: Complex interface, breath tracking inconsistent, premium price
COROS has gained serious credibility among endurance athletes, and the Apex 2 offers impressive swim tracking at a competitive price.
Water Resistance: 50 meters (5 ATM)
Swim Features: Pool swimming, open water swimming, stroke detection, drill logging, auto lap
Price: $399
The Apex 2 punches above its price point in terms of swim tracking capability. The pool swim tracking proved accurate during testing, with reliable lap counting and good stroke detection. Open water tracking uses dual-frequency GPS for improved accuracy in challenging conditions.
The battery life of approximately 30 days in smartwatch mode and 45 hours in full GPS mode exceeds many competitors at higher price points. This makes the Apex 2 particularly attractive for triathletes watching their budget or anyone who hates frequent charging.
COROS’s training software has improved significantly, offering useful analysis of swim sessions including pace zones, stroke balance, and SWOLF scores. While the ecosystem isn’t as mature as Garmin or Apple, it’s fully functional and improving.
Pros: Excellent value, great battery life, reliable tracking, lightweight
Cons: Smaller ecosystem, less brand recognition, some features require subscription
| Model | Water Resistance | Pool Tracking | Open Water | Battery Life (GPS) | Price |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Apple Watch Ultra 2 | 10 ATM | Excellent | Excellent | 12 hours | $799 |
| Garmin Swim 2 | 5 ATM | Excellent | Good | 12 hours | $449 |
| Garmin Forerunner 965 | 5 ATM | Excellent | Excellent | 12 hours | $599 |
| Apple Watch Series 9 | 5 ATM | Good | Limited | 6 hours | $399 |
| Samsung Galaxy Watch 6 | 5 ATM | Good | Limited | 10 hours | $329 |
| Fitbit Sense 2 | 5 ATM | Good | Limited | 6 hours | $249 |
| Garmin Fenix 7 | 10 ATM | Excellent | Excellent | 57 hours | $799 |
| Whoop 4.0 | 10 ATM | Basic | Basic | 5 days | $239 |
| Polar Vantage V3 | 5 ATM | Excellent | Good | 40 hours | $599 |
| COROS Apex 2 | 5 ATM | Good | Good | 45 hours | $399 |
Before purchasing a swim watch, consider which features matter most for your specific training needs.
Most modern swim watches offer 5 ATM (50 meters) rating, which is sufficient for pool swimming and recreational open water use. If you plan to dive or swim in deeper water, look for 10 ATM (100 meters) ratings. Remember that water resistance can degrade over time, especially with exposure to salt water and chlorine.
Ensure your watch allows custom pool length settings. Standard pools come in various lengths (25 yards, 25 meters, 50 meters), and accurate lap counting depends on correct pool size configuration. Some watches automatically detect pool size, but manual setting is more reliable.
Advanced swim watches identify different strokes automatically. This matters if you do varied workouts including kick sets or drills. Cheaper options may only track freestyle reliably, while premium models detect all four competitive strokes plus breaststroke and butterfly.
If you swim in lakes, oceans, or rivers, GPS tracking becomes essential. Not all swim watches include GPS, and those that do vary significantly in accuracy. Look for models with proven open water performance if this is your primary environment.
Pool swimming uses minimal battery, but open water GPS tracking drains power quickly. Consider battery life specifications if you do long open water sessions. Some watches offer specific low-power modes that extend tracking time significantly.
For improving technique, SWOLF scores (a combined measure of strokes and time per lap) provide valuable feedback. Not all swim watches calculate this metric, so check specifications if technique improvement is important to you.
No. Not all smartwatches are designed for swimming. Only watches with water resistance ratings of 5 ATM (50 meters) or higher should be used for swimming. Always check the manufacturer’s water resistance specifications before submerging any device.
The Apple Watch Ultra 2 offers the best overall swim tracking for most users, combining accuracy with excellent smart features. However, dedicated swimmers might prefer the Garmin Swim 2 for its focused design, or the Garmin Forerunner 965 for triathlon use.
Yes, a 5 ATM rating is sufficient for swimming in pools and recreational open water swimming. This rating means the watch can withstand pressures equivalent to 50 meters of depth. However, it does not mean you should dive to that depth while wearing it.
The Apple Watch Ultra 2 is currently the best Apple Watch for swimming due to its 10 ATM rating, larger display, and longer battery life. The Series 9 handles pool swimming well but has a 5 ATM rating and shorter battery life.
Yes, Fitbit devices with 5 ATM water resistance (including the Sense 2, Charge 6, and Inspire 3) track swimming automatically. They count laps, measure distance, and estimate calories burned during pool swimming.
Lap counting accuracy varies by brand and model. Premium swim watches like those from Garmin and Apple typically achieve 98-99% accuracy in standard pools. Accuracy can decrease with unusual stroke patterns, very short or very long pool lengths, or improper pool length configuration.
Finding the right swim watch depends entirely on your specific needs and how you plan to use it.
For the majority of swimmers who want excellent pool tracking without breaking the bank, the Fitbit Sense 2 or Samsung Galaxy Watch 6 provide solid performance at reasonable prices. Both handle casual pool swimming well while offering excellent health tracking features for everyday use.
Serious pool swimmers should look at the Garmin Swim 2 or Polar Vantage V3, both of which offer advanced metrics like SWOLF scoring and stroke-specific analysis that help improve technique over time.
Triathletes and multi-sport athletes get the most value from watches like the Garmin Forerunner 965, Garmin Fenix 7, or Apple Watch Ultra 2, which excel at all sports while offering open water GPS tracking that casual swimmers don’t need.
Whatever you choose, remember that the best swim watch is the one you’ll actually wear and use consistently. Technical advantages mean little if the watch feels uncomfortable or the features never get used. Consider your primary swimming environment, your budget, and how you’ll use the data before making your final decision.
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