The Garmin Swim 2 launched in 2019. In the smartwatch world, that’s a long time. So is it still worth buying in 2026, or should you look elsewhere?
What the Garmin Swim 2 Does Well
Accuracy
The Swim 2 remains one of the most reliable lap counters available. It uses a combination of accelerometer data and pool length to detect strokes and count laps accurately — including in pools with non-standard turns or mixed stroke sets.
Battery Life
Up to 7 days in smartwatch mode, 13 hours in GPS mode. That’s dramatically better than any Apple Watch. If you swim twice a day or do multi-day open water trips, this matters.
Swimming-Specific Metrics
SWOLF, stroke rate, stroke count, distance per stroke, average pace per 100m — all clearly presented. For swimmers who care about efficiency metrics, the Swim 2 gives you more to work with than most competitors.
Price
In 2026, the Garmin Swim 2 can often be found at a discount compared to newer Garmin models. If you find it under $200, it’s a solid value for a dedicated swim watch.
Where It Falls Short
No Touchscreen
The Swim 2 uses buttons only, which is by design (touchscreens don’t work reliably underwater). But if you’re used to modern smartwatches, it can feel dated.
Limited Smartwatch Features
This is a swim watch first. Notifications, apps, and music control are limited compared to Apple Watch or Garmin’s Forerunner line.
Older Hardware
The display and interface design show their age. Garmin has updated the experience considerably in newer Forerunner and Fenix models.
Who Should Buy It
The Garmin Swim 2 is right for you if:
- Swimming is your primary sport and you want a dedicated device
- Battery life is a priority
- You want accurate pool tracking above all else
- You don’t care about smartwatch features
It’s probably not for you if:
- You want a daily smartwatch that also tracks swims
- Open water GPS is important (newer models perform better)
- You want a modern interface
Alternatives to Consider
Garmin Forerunner 265 — Better all-around watch with excellent swim tracking. Costs more but does everything the Swim 2 does plus running, cycling, and a better display.
Apple Watch Series 10 — If you’re in the Apple ecosystem, competitive swim tracking with better daily usability.
Verdict
The Garmin Swim 2 remains a capable, reliable swim watch. It’s not the most modern option, but for pure pool tracking it still holds up. If you find it at a good price and swim is your main sport, it’s worth considering. If you want newer hardware, look at the Forerunner 265 or 965 instead.