10 Best Cheap Gps Running Watch 2025 in the United States

The Fitbit Charge 6 Fitness Tracker is a solid option for those seeking an affordable GPS-running watch with multiple health and fitness features. Its built-in GPS ensures accurate tracking of your runs and rides, while the turn-by-turn directions from Google Maps add a convenience factor. The battery life is decent, although the exact duration may vary depending on usage patterns, particularly with GPS and other features enabled.

The heart rate monitoring is reliable and can be linked to exercise machines for real-time feedback, enhancing your workout experience. The tracker is water-resistant, making it suitable for various weather conditions and activities such as swimming. Smart features like Google Wallet for contactless payments and YouTube Music controls help you stay connected and entertained on the go.

In terms of comfort and design, the Fitbit Charge 6 includes both S and L bands to fit different wrist sizes and has a lightweight, sleek design that ensures a comfortable fit for all-day wear. However, the screen size is relatively small at 1.04 inches, which might be a drawback for users who prefer larger displays. Additionally, while it includes a 6-month premium membership, this is a limited offer, and some advanced features may require ongoing subscription fees. The tracker is well-integrated with both iOS and Android devices, adding to its versatility. This makes the Fitbit Charge 6 well-suited for fitness enthusiasts looking for a feature-rich yet affordable GPS-running watch.

The Garmin Forerunner 165 is a solid choice if you're looking for an affordable GPS running watch that covers all the essentials well. Its built-in GPS offers reliable tracking for pace and distance, which is key for runners wanting accurate data. The watch shines with up to 19 hours of battery life in GPS mode—enough for long runs or even a full day of varied workouts. Heart rate is monitored right from your wrist, giving consistent insights without the need for extra equipment. The colorful AMOLED display is bright and easy to read, while the combination of touchscreen and buttons makes navigation straightforward during exercise. It’s lightweight and fairly compact, so it should feel comfortable on your wrist during long sessions.

Besides running, it supports over 25 activities, making it versatile for those who like cross-training. Smart features such as smart notifications, Garmin Pay, and safety tools add everyday convenience, although some require a connected smartphone. Water resistance is standard, so you don’t need to worry about sweat or rain. On the downside, while its battery life is great for its price range, it won’t match higher-end models designed for ultra-long use. Some advanced runners might find the training metrics less detailed than premium Garmin watches. Also, incident detection and live tracking work only when paired with your phone and network coverage, which could be a limitation outdoors.

The Forerunner 165 suits casual to serious runners who want a feature-rich, accurate, and comfortable running watch without spending too much.

The Garmin Forerunner 55 is a budget-friendly GPS running watch that offers robust features for runners. Its GPS accuracy is reliable, ensuring you can track how far, how fast, and where you have run with confidence. The battery life is impressive, lasting up to 2 weeks in smartwatch mode and up to 20 hours in GPS mode, which means less frequent charging and more time focused on your workouts.

The heart rate monitoring feature is useful for keeping track of your fitness levels, although it's important to note that it's not a medical device and should not be used for precise health measurements. For those who enjoy swimming, the watch is water-resistant, making it versatile for different types of workouts beyond just running. Smart features include Bluetooth connectivity, suggested workouts based on your training history, and customizable watch faces and apps via the Connect IQ Store, which adds convenience and enhances the user experience.

Comfort and design are also well-addressed, with a lightweight build (37 grams) and a user-friendly interface, making it easy to wear and operate during activities. However, it does have some limitations, such as the PacePro feature not being compatible with on-device courses, which might be a drawback for some advanced runners. Additionally, the display resolution (208 x 208) is not the highest, which might affect readability under certain conditions. Despite these minor drawbacks, the Garmin Forerunner 55 is an excellent choice for runners looking for an affordable, feature-packed GPS running watch.