Garmin Tactix Watch vs Apple Watch Ultra – Resale Value Comparison
The Garmin Tactix series and Apple Watch Ultra series are basically two peas in a pot. Both smartwatch series offer exceptional durability and endurance for the toughest of scenarios, but the Garmin Tactix takes things a step further due to its tactical/military-focused features like Night vision, kill switch, etc., and much longer battery life.
So in this article, we’re going to be comparing the resale value of both Smartwatch series to see which one holds its value better over time.
Factors Affecting Smartwatch Resale Value
Brand Reputation
Smartwatches from popular brands retain value better.
Build Quality
Durable materials and rugged design impact resale value.
Battery Life
Long-lasting batteries help maintain resale price.
Software Updates
Frequent updates keep the watch relevant longer.
Launch Price
Higher launch price affects depreciation and resale.
Buyer Audience
Athletes, professionals, and collectors drive demand.
Direct Comparison: Garmin Tactix vs Apple Watch Ultra
| Category | Release Date | Launch Price | Value Retention | Current Resale | Value Lost |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Garmin Tactix 7 Standard | April 2022 | $1,100 | 25.7% | $283 | $817 |
| Apple Watch Ultra | Sept 2022 | $800 | 34% | $272 | $528 |
| Garmin Tactix 7 AMOLED | Sept 2023 | $1,400 | 30% | $416 | $984 |
| Apple Watch Ultra 2 | Sept 2023 | $800 | 43% | $340 | $460 |
Insights From The Data: Garmin Tactix vs Apple Watch Ultra
Apple Retains Value Better than Garmin:
Even though both Apple Watch Ultra 1 and Ultra 2 have lower launch prices than most Garmin Tactix models, they consistently retain a higher percentage of their original value. The Ultra 2 for example, retains 43% after two years, compared to just 30% for the Tactix 7 AMOLED. This highlights Apple’s strong brand power, regular software updates, and broad consumer demand.
Premium Garmin Features Don’t Fully Prevent Depreciation:
Upgrading from the Tactix 7 Standard to the AMOLED edition increases retention slightly (from 25.7% to 30%), but the tactical and niche nature of Garmin watches limits resale. Features like multi-band GPS, AMOLED displays, and military-grade durability appeal to a smaller audience, which slows demand on the secondary market.
Absolute Value Lost vs Retention:
While the Tactix 7 AMOLED has a higher resale value ($416 vs $340 for Ultra 2), the percentage retained is lower due to its higher launch price. This shows that buyers looking to sell quickly may get more cash upfront from Garmin devices, but the relative loss is still steep.
Timing and Model Updates Matter:
Apple’s consistent yearly updates mean newer models like Ultra 2 maintain stronger resale compared to older Ultra 1. Garmin models show smaller differences between editions, emphasizing that premium features only moderately affect resale.
Where to Sell Your Used Garmin Watch or Apple Watch?
SellMyCellPhone is the easiest place to sell your Garmin or Apple Watch quickly, safely, and for the most money. The process only takes about 3 minutes, and payment arrives within 24 hours of receiving your smartwatch.
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1️⃣ Go to sellmycellphone.com
2️⃣ Search for your smartwatch
3️⃣ Select your Watch model & condition
4️⃣ Receive instant quote & click Get Paid
5️⃣ Proceed to checkout & follow instructions
Apple Watch Series You Can Sell Today on SellMyCellPhone
Garmin Watches You Can Sell Today on SellMyCellPhone
Final Words:
Both the Apple Watch Ultra and the Garmin Tactix Watch are excellent rugged smartwatches designed to survive the harshest of environments.
From this comparison, it’s clear that the Apple Watch Ultra series holds its resale value much better than the Garmin Tactix watches.