The 10 Best GPS Running Watches
This review has been updated 8 times since it was first published in January of 2021. Whether you want to train for a marathon, improve your endurance, or have a friendly competition with your friends, it’s nice to have a way to keep an eye on your running analytics. A good GPS watch can not only track your distance, but also monitor your heart rate, steps, and more. The options on this list range from top-of-the-line models to utilitarian, budget-friendly choices.
10. JoyGeek Smart Bracelet
If you don’t have hundreds of dollars to drop on a piece of wearable tech, the JoyGeek Smart Bracelet is a nice, sensible option. At under fifty bucks, it won’t break the bank, and it comes loaded with useful features, like a pedometer and heart rate monitor.
- Works with android and ios
- Modes for several specific sports
- Included strap isn’t very durable
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9. Suunto Ambit3
The Suunto Ambit3 has fast and accurate location settings that can be turned off while you’re indoors to save battery life. It also has the unique ability to take photos during your activity, which can be used to create a highlights reel.
- Water resistant to 50 meters
- No vibration alerts
- Associated app isn’t great
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8. TomTom Runner
With a highly intuitive, one-button interface, the TomTom Runner is perfect for users who don’t want to get bogged down with confusing technology and unnecessary features. It finds your location quickly, so you don’t have to sit around waiting while it loads.
- Programmable interval training
- Can be detached from wristband
- Some metrics are hard to read
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7. Garmin Vívoactive
Anyone who participates in a variety of sports will appreciate the versatility of the Garmin Vívoactive. Not only does it have a great run mode, it also has built-in apps for other activities, including biking, golfing, swimming, and walking.
- Find my phone feature
- High-resolution color touchscreen
- Bluetooth connectivity is spotty
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6. Amazfit Bip
The Amazfit Bip not only makes a great companion on a run, it also functions as a multipurpose smartwatch. Sync it with your phone and you can get notifications for everything from emails and texts to Facebook updates and weather forecasts.
- Many interchangeable watch faces
- Works with google fit
- Calorie count isn’t always accurate
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5. Polar M430
With a variety of band colors ranging from basic black to bright lime green, the Polar M430 can easily match your outfit and your personality. Plus it can track your sleep, so you can make sure you’re well rested before a long day of working out.
- Water resistant to 30 meters
- Black and white lcd screen
- Provides indoor running metrics
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4. Coros Pace
If you get impatient with slow loading speeds, the Coros Pace might be the best way for you to keep from getting frustrated. It has a strong signal acquisition and uploads data to the app very quickly, so you don’t have to wait to see your stats.
- Dedicated triathlon mode
- Measures elevation changes
- Customizable data screens
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3. Fitbit Ionic
Once you’ve had it on for a while, you might forget you’re even wearing the slim, unobtrusive Fitbit Ionic. It sports a sleek, modern design that can be paired with just about any outfit, so you can wear it anywhere from the gym to a dinner party.
- Two sizes of band included
- Download music from pandora
- Can be used for swimming
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2. Garmin Forerunner 35
If you want a high-quality option that won’t cost an arm and a leg, consider the Garmin Forerunner 35. Thin and lightweight, it won’t feel bulky on your wrist, and its stretchy band can provide a snug fit while still being quite comfortable.
- Vibration notifications
- Bright high-resolution display
- Auto lap feature
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1. Garmin Forerunner 645
With a Garmin Forerunner 645 attached to your wrist, you’ll have everything you need to measure your progress as you train. Its built-in heart rate monitor is reliable and accurate, and its interface is so intuitive that you’ll be an expert on it in no time.
- Available in several colors
- Can also be used as a music player
- Long battery life
