| Polar Vantage V | Apple Watch | |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing | ||
| Starting price | $599 | $399★ |
| Subscription | ✓ None | ✓ None |
| Hardware | ||
| Weight | 39g | 30g★ |
| Water resistance | 5ATM | 50m |
| Battery | 8 days★ | 1 days |
| Always-on display | ✅ | ✅ |
| GPS | ✅ | ✅ |
| Cellular | ❌ | ✅★ |
| Platform | iOS & Android | iOS only |
| Tier | Sports GPS | Smartwatch |
| Buy timing | ||
| Released | Oct 4, 2023 | Sep 19, 2025 |
| Cycle advice | bad | neutral★ |
| Deals advice | good★ | neutral |
| Next model | Polar Vantage V4 (2026) | Apple Watch Series 12 (Expected fall 2026) |
Polar Vantage V3 is one of the few sports GPS watches with on-demand ECG — usually only found on lifestyle smartwatches.
Running power measurement without a foot pod or chest strap — a significant training metric for pacing effort on hills and varied terrain.
The most detailed training load analysis in any sports watch: muscle groups targeted per session, recovery status per muscle, and long-term load trends.
The Series 11 is the first mainstream smartwatch to offer FDA-cleared hypertension (high blood pressure) detection — a feature that could flag silent health risks.
At 9.7mm, the Series 11 is significantly slimmer than previous models — noticeably lighter on the wrist for all-day and sleep tracking.
On-demand ECG, continuous blood oxygen monitoring, and sleep apnea detection (FDA-cleared) make this one of the most medically relevant consumer wearables available.
The right pick depends on what you optimize for.
$399 vs $599 over 3 years · no required subscription.
8 days vs 1 days battery.
10 sensors.
30g · no required subscription.
Serious endurance athletes — particularly runners and triathletes — who want Polar's unmatched training load science and recovery guidance, combined with ECG health monitoring and running power in a premium package.
Full details →iPhone users who want the most capable smartwatch health experience available. Ideal for anyone who values medical-grade monitoring (ECG, blood pressure, SpO2), a premium always-on display, and the best Apple Watch workout tracking. If health is your priority, this is the one to get.
Full details →