Global Animal Guide Wildlife Encyclopedia

Grizzly Bear vs Polar Bear

Quick answer

It is too close to call. The Grizzly Bear and the Polar Bear are evenly matched on paper, and in the wild the outcome would come down to size, surprise, and circumstance.

This is a hypothetical, educational comparison based on typical size, strength, and natural weaponry. In the wild these animals rarely meet, and most encounters end without a fight.

Grizzly bear standing in a shallow river with pine forest behind Power 78

Mammal

Least Concern
Grizzly Bear
Weight 360 kg
Length 2 m
Top speed 56 km/h
Strength 92/100
Deadliness 80/100
Intelligence 70/100
Lifespan 25 yr
Polar bear walking across Arctic sea ice under a pale sky Power 79

Mammal

Vulnerable
Polar Bear
Weight 700 kg
Length 3 m
Top speed 40 km/h
Strength 92/100
Deadliness 86/100
Intelligence 70/100
Lifespan 25 yr

Grizzly Bear vs Polar Bear compared

Side-by-side comparison of the Grizzly Bear and the Polar Bear
Attribute Grizzly Bear Polar Bear
Weight 360 kg 700 kg
Length 2 m 3 m
Top speed 56 km/h 40 km/h
Strength 92/100 92/100
Deadliness 80/100 86/100
Intelligence 70/100 70/100
Lifespan 25 yr 25 yr

Grizzly Bear vs Polar Bear: common questions

Who would win in a fight, a Grizzly Bear or a Polar Bear?

It is too close to call. The Grizzly Bear and the Polar Bear are evenly matched on paper, and in the wild the outcome would come down to size, surprise, and circumstance.

Which is bigger, the Grizzly Bear or the Polar Bear?

The Polar Bear is heavier, weighing around 700 kg compared with the other's 360 kg.

Which is faster, the Grizzly Bear or the Polar Bear?

The Grizzly Bear is faster, reaching about 56 km/h versus 40 km/h.

Which lives longer, the Grizzly Bear or the Polar Bear?

The Grizzly Bear typically lives longer, up to around 25 years compared with 25 years.