The Huawei Watch Ultimate and Garmin watches both offer advanced GPS capabilities, but they differ in how they implement these features and their overall accuracy.
Huawei Watch Ultimate's Dual-Band GPS
The Huawei Watch Ultimate features a dual-band multi-system GNSS, which allows it to receive signals from five different satellite systems: GPS, GLONASS, Galileo, Beidou, and QZSS. This dual-band capability enhances accuracy by reducing interference and improving signal reception, particularly in challenging environments like urban canyons or dense forests[1][4]. In practical tests, the Huawei Watch Ultimate has shown excellent GPS accuracy, often comparable to high-end Garmin models like the Fenix series[1][4]. However, some users have reported occasional delays in acquiring a GPS lock, which can affect the start of activities[10].
Garmin's GPS Accuracy
Garmin watches, such as the Fenix series, are renowned for their GPS accuracy. They typically use multi-GNSS systems similar to Huawei's, supporting multiple satellite systems to enhance precision[5]. Garmin's GPS accuracy is generally very high, with location accuracy around 3 meters (10 feet) about 95% of the time[5]. Garmin's watches are particularly noted for their performance in challenging environments, such as mountainous terrains, where dual-frequency support can significantly improve accuracy[8].
Comparison of Accuracy
Both Huawei and Garmin offer highly accurate GPS tracking, but Garmin's systems are often considered more reliable and consistent, especially in difficult conditions. Huawei's dual-band GPS is effective but may occasionally experience delays in locking onto a signal, which can impact the start of activities[10]. In terms of raw accuracy, both brands are competitive, with Huawei's dual-band system providing excellent results in most scenarios[1][7]. However, Garmin's long-standing expertise and optimization in GPS technology might give it a slight edge in terms of overall reliability and consistency across various environments[5][8].
In summary, while both Huawei and Garmin offer excellent GPS accuracy, Garmin's systems are generally more consistent and reliable, especially in challenging conditions. Huawei's dual-band GPS is highly effective but may require more patience in acquiring a lock at times.
Citations:
[1] https://www.t3.com/reviews/huawei-watch-ultimate-review
[2] https://www.imtbtrails.com/forum/threads/whats-the-deal-with-dual-frequency-gps.11405/
[3] https://www.reddit.com/r/HuaweiWatchGT/comments/16va37z/why_choose_huaweii_instead_of_garmin/
[4] https://www.techradar.com/reviews/huawei-watch-ultimate
[5] https://blog.studioblueplanet.net/archives/1223
[6] https://www.hodinky-365.com/blog/duel-garmin-venu-2s-vs-huawei-watch-gt-3-42-mm-x33846
[7] https://www.expertreviews.co.uk/smartwatches/1418577/huawei-watch-ultimate-review
[8] https://www.dcrainmaker.com/2022/04/garmin-vertix-accuracy.html
[9] https://www.dcrainmaker.com/2021/10/huawei-adds-watch.html
[10] https://www.androidauthority.com/huawei-watch-ultimate-review-3335995/