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10 Best Gps Running Watches 2025 in the United States

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Our Top Picks

#1

Winner

Apple Watch Series 10 [GPS 46mm case] Smartwatch with Jet Black Aluminium Case with Black Sport Band - M/L. Fitness Tracker, ECG App, Always-On Retina Display, Water Resistant

Rating
9.8
Chosen by1,144
Battery Life
Heart Rate Monitoring
Training and Performance Metrics

Most important from
12821 reviews

Battery Life
While the battery life is limited to 1-2 days, it charges quickly and efficiently with the Apple charger.
Heart Rate Monitoring
Health tracking capabilities are extensive, including heart rate monitoring, sleep tracking, and ECG functionality.
Training and Performance Metrics
The Apple Watch Series 10 is great for keeping track of physical activity with features like step tracking, stand reminders, and exercise goals.
Smartwatch Features
The watch is seamlessly integrated with the Apple ecosystem, making it easy to pair with an iPhone and use Apple-specific features like Siri and Apple Pay.
Comfort and Design
Changing bands is effortless, with a wide variety of options available for personalization.

The Apple Watch Series 10 offers several strong features for anyone in need of a GPS-running watch. Its built-in GPS supports multiple satellite systems like GNSS, Galileo, and BeiDou, which should ensure accurate location tracking. The watch boasts up to 18 hours of battery life during regular use, which can extend to 36 hours in low power mode, making it suitable for longer activities and workouts. The heart rate monitoring is advanced with both electrical and optical sensors, providing precise heart rate tracking and health insights, including ECG capabilities and high/low heart rate notifications. Its water resistance up to 50 meters makes it suitable for swimming and other aquatic activities.

The watch also tracks a wide range of workouts and provides performance metrics, which can be valuable for runners looking to improve their training. Smartwatch features like text messaging, calls, music streaming, and Siri integration enhance connectivity and convenience. The design is thin, lightweight, and comfortable with a customizable band, making it ideal for extended wear.

However, the battery life might be a limitation for ultra-marathoners or those who prefer multi-day treks without charging. Additionally, the watch’s reliance on compatibility with iPhone might be a drawback for non-Apple users. While it excels in multiple areas, it may not be the most cost-effective option for those solely looking for a GPS-running watch.

Rating
9.8
Chosen by1,144
Battery Life
Heart Rate Monitoring
Training and Performance Metrics

Most important from
12821 reviews

Battery Life
While the battery life is limited to 1-2 days, it charges quickly and efficiently with the Apple charger.
Heart Rate Monitoring
Health tracking capabilities are extensive, including heart rate monitoring, sleep tracking, and ECG functionality.
Training and Performance Metrics
The Apple Watch Series 10 is great for keeping track of physical activity with features like step tracking, stand reminders, and exercise goals.
Smartwatch Features
The watch is seamlessly integrated with the Apple ecosystem, making it easy to pair with an iPhone and use Apple-specific features like Siri and Apple Pay.
Comfort and Design
Changing bands is effortless, with a wide variety of options available for personalization.
#2

Garmin Forerunner 165, Running Smartwatch, Colorful AMOLED Display, Training Metrics and Recovery Insights, Black

Rating
9.6
GPS Accuracy
Battery Life
Training and Performance Metrics

Most important from
2991 reviews

GPS Accuracy
Its GPS accuracy is impressive, providing reliable tracking with minimal discrepancies.
Battery Life
Battery life is excellent, typically lasting 5-6 days between charges even with regular GPS usage.
Training and Performance Metrics
The watch offers comprehensive metrics that genuinely help improve running performance.
Smartwatch Features
The Forerunner 165 is comfortable, looks good, and offers the basic smartwatch features needed for everyday use.
Comfort and Design
The Garmin Forerunner 165 boasts a vibrant AMOLED display that's easy to read even in direct sunlight.

The Garmin Forerunner 165 is a feature-packed running smartwatch designed for both casual and serious runners. It boasts a brilliant AMOLED touchscreen display combined with traditional button controls for ease of use. The built-in GPS provides accurate tracking for pace and distance, making it a reliable companion for outdoor activities. With up to 11 days of battery life in smartwatch mode and up to 19 hours in GPS mode, it is well-suited for long training sessions and races. The wrist-based heart rate monitoring is a useful feature, although some users may prefer the accuracy of chest straps for intense workouts. Water resistance ensures it can handle sweat and rain, adding to its durability.

The watch offers extensive training and performance metrics, including personalized daily workouts and recovery insights, which can help you reach your fitness goals. Garmin Coach and adaptive training plans are beneficial for preparing for specific events. Smartwatch features like smart notifications, Garmin Pay, and safety tracking add convenience and peace of mind. The lightweight design and 43 mm size make it comfortable to wear daily. However, the 1.2-inch display might feel small for users accustomed to larger screens. Connectivity through Bluetooth is seamless, and the Garmin Connect app enhances the experience by allowing users to track their health and fitness data, compete with friends, and join challenges.

One notable drawback is that advanced metrics might be overwhelming for beginners. Despite this, the Forerunner 165 is a well-rounded option for anyone looking to improve their running performance while enjoying the benefits of a modern smartwatch.

Rating
9.6
GPS Accuracy
Battery Life
Training and Performance Metrics

Most important from
2991 reviews

GPS Accuracy
Its GPS accuracy is impressive, providing reliable tracking with minimal discrepancies.
Battery Life
Battery life is excellent, typically lasting 5-6 days between charges even with regular GPS usage.
Training and Performance Metrics
The watch offers comprehensive metrics that genuinely help improve running performance.
Smartwatch Features
The Forerunner 165 is comfortable, looks good, and offers the basic smartwatch features needed for everyday use.
Comfort and Design
The Garmin Forerunner 165 boasts a vibrant AMOLED display that's easy to read even in direct sunlight.
#3

Garmin vívoactive 5, Health and Fitness GPS Smartwatch, AMOLED Display, Up to 11 Days of Battery, Ivory

Rating
9.3
GPS Accuracy
Battery Life
Heart Rate Monitoring

Most important from
6977 reviews

GPS Accuracy
The GPS and other features packed in are impressive.
Battery Life
The battery life on the Garmin vívoactive 5 is much longer than what I previously had on Fitbit.
Heart Rate Monitoring
The sleep tracker is nice to see a snapshot of how you slept, with options for nap tracking, heart rate, pulse ox, water, and calories.
Training and Performance Metrics
The built-in coaching feature is exciting for getting back into running.
Smartwatch Features
You get great data on your sleep patterns, morning reports, weather updates, and more.
Comfort and Design
The band feels great and the watch looks stylish.

The Garmin vívoactive 5 is a versatile GPS-running watch that stands out with its bright AMOLED display and comprehensive health monitoring features. One of its key strengths is the impressive battery life, lasting up to 11 days in smartwatch mode, making it reliable for long-term use without frequent charging. The built-in GPS ensures accurate tracking for various outdoor activities like running and cycling, while more than 30 built-in sports apps, including HIIT and swimming, provide diverse workout options for fitness enthusiasts.

Heart rate monitoring and Body Battery energy monitoring offer valuable insights into your health, helping you understand when to rest or push harder during workouts. Additionally, the watch supports automatic nap detection and provides personalized sleep coaching, enhancing well-being. Water resistance makes it suitable for swimming and other water-based activities, adding to its versatility.

On the downside, the vívoactive 5 might be slightly overwhelming for users who prefer simpler devices, as it is packed with extensive features. The touchscreen interface, while user-friendly, can be less responsive during intense workouts. Some users may find the 1.2-inch screen size a bit small, especially when comparing metrics during activities. However, for those looking for a comprehensive fitness and health tracking smartwatch with robust training and performance metrics, the vívoactive 5 is a strong contender. Its comfort and lightweight design make it suitable for daily wear, and the ability to download music and use Bluetooth headphones enhances the experience. This watch is ideal for fitness enthusiasts and individuals seeking detailed health insights, provided they are comfortable navigating through its wide array of features.

Rating
9.3
GPS Accuracy
Battery Life
Heart Rate Monitoring

Most important from
6977 reviews

GPS Accuracy
The GPS and other features packed in are impressive.
Battery Life
The battery life on the Garmin vívoactive 5 is much longer than what I previously had on Fitbit.
Heart Rate Monitoring
The sleep tracker is nice to see a snapshot of how you slept, with options for nap tracking, heart rate, pulse ox, water, and calories.
Training and Performance Metrics
The built-in coaching feature is exciting for getting back into running.
Smartwatch Features
You get great data on your sleep patterns, morning reports, weather updates, and more.
Comfort and Design
The band feels great and the watch looks stylish.

Buying Guide for the Best Gps Running Watches

Choosing the right GPS running watch can significantly enhance your running experience by providing you with valuable data and insights. When selecting a GPS running watch, it's important to consider various specifications that align with your fitness goals, running habits, and personal preferences. Understanding these key specs will help you make an informed decision and find the best fit for your needs.
GPS AccuracyGPS accuracy determines how precisely the watch can track your location and distance. This is crucial for runners who want to monitor their routes, pace, and performance accurately. GPS accuracy can vary based on the technology used and the environment in which you run. Watches with multi-band GPS or additional satellite systems (like GLONASS or Galileo) tend to offer better accuracy, especially in challenging environments like dense forests or urban areas with tall buildings. If you run in varied terrains or need precise data for training, opt for a watch with high GPS accuracy.
Battery LifeBattery life indicates how long the watch can operate on a single charge, which is essential for long-distance runners or those who don't want to charge their watch frequently. Battery life can range from a few hours to several days, depending on the watch and its settings. Watches with longer battery life are ideal for marathon runners, ultra-runners, or those who engage in multi-day activities. If you primarily run shorter distances or have easy access to charging, a watch with moderate battery life may suffice.
Heart Rate MonitoringHeart rate monitoring tracks your heart rate during runs, providing insights into your fitness level, training intensity, and recovery. This feature is important for runners who want to optimize their training and avoid overexertion. Heart rate monitors can be wrist-based or chest-strap based, with chest straps generally offering more accuracy. If precise heart rate data is crucial for your training, consider a watch that supports chest-strap heart rate monitors. For general fitness tracking, a wrist-based monitor may be sufficient.
Water ResistanceWater resistance indicates how well the watch can withstand exposure to water, which is important for runners who train in various weather conditions or participate in water-based activities. Water resistance is usually measured in meters (e.g., 50m, 100m). A watch with higher water resistance is suitable for swimmers or those who run in heavy rain. If you only run in dry conditions, a watch with basic water resistance will be adequate.
Training and Performance MetricsTraining and performance metrics include features like VO2 max estimation, recovery time, training load, and advanced running dynamics. These metrics help runners understand their fitness progress and optimize their training plans. Watches with comprehensive training metrics are beneficial for serious athletes and those who follow structured training programs. If you are a casual runner, you may not need all these advanced features and can opt for a simpler watch with basic metrics.
Smartwatch FeaturesSmartwatch features encompass functionalities like notifications, music storage, contactless payments, and apps. These features add convenience and can enhance your overall experience. If you prefer staying connected and having access to various apps while running, look for a watch with robust smartwatch capabilities. If you prioritize running-specific features over general smartwatch functions, a more focused GPS running watch may be a better choice.
Comfort and DesignComfort and design refer to the watch's size, weight, strap material, and overall aesthetics. A comfortable and well-designed watch is important for long-term wear, especially during extended runs. Watches come in various sizes and styles, so it's essential to choose one that fits well and feels comfortable on your wrist. If you have a smaller wrist, opt for a lighter and more compact watch. If you prefer a more rugged look, choose a watch with a durable design.

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