10 Best Gps Running Watches 2025 in the United States

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.

The Apple Watch SE (2nd Gen) is a versatile choice for those looking for a GPS running watch with added smartwatch features. It boasts reliable GPS accuracy, ensuring precise tracking of your runs. The heart rate monitor provides continuous monitoring, helpful for tracking your exercise intensity. Battery life is decent but may require frequent charging during extended use, especially if utilizing multiple features. Water resistance up to 50 meters makes it suitable for swimming and sweaty workouts.

Training and performance metrics are extensive, thanks to the Workout app, offering advanced insights into your fitness activities. Smartwatch features are robust, allowing you to stay connected with texts, calls, music, and more, although some features require pairing with an iPhone. Comfort and design are strong points, with a lightweight build and customizable bands for personalized style.

However, if you prioritize exceptionally long battery life or ultra-specific running metrics, there may be better options tailored solely to runners. The Apple Watch SE is well-suited for those who want a blend of fitness tracking and comprehensive smartwatch capabilities.

The Fitbit Versa 4 is a solid choice if you're looking for a GPS running watch that also covers general fitness and daily health tracking. Its built-in GPS provides reliable route tracking, which is crucial for runners wanting accurate distance and pace data. Battery life stands out, lasting over 6 days on a charge, so you won’t have to worry about frequent recharging even with daily use. The continuous 24/7 heart rate monitoring is accurate enough for most users and helps track workout intensity and recovery through the Daily Readiness Score. It's water resistant up to 50 meters, making it safe for swimming or rainy runs. The watch supports over 40 exercise modes and automatically detects workouts, which is handy if you switch activities often. Training metrics like Active Zone Minutes and workout maps help you stay motivated and improve performance.

On the smartwatch side, it offers features like notifications, call and text alerts, Fitbit Pay, and voice assistants (Alexa and Google Assistant), adding convenient extras beyond fitness. The design is lightweight and comfortable with included small and large bands, suitable for long wear. Some runners might prefer round watch faces over the Versa 4's square screen, and while its GPS accuracy is good, it may not match that of higher-end dedicated running watches. Additionally, while the Versa 4 covers many fitness features, it does not include some of the advanced performance metrics found on specialized running devices.

If you want a versatile fitness watch that blends solid GPS running features with everyday health tracking and smartwatch functions, the Fitbit Versa 4 is a great option. For those requiring highly precise GPS or detailed training analysis, exploring more specialized running watches might be beneficial.