9 Best Solar Powered Smartwatch 2025 in the United States

The Garmin Instinct 2X Solar - Tactical Edition is a rugged GPS smartwatch designed for outdoor enthusiasts and those who value durability. One of its standout features is the solar charging capability; the Power Glass lens actually boosts battery life, giving you infinite usage in smartwatch mode with just a few hours of sunlight each day. This is great for users who may spend extended time outdoors without easy access to charging. Its military-grade durability means it can withstand tough conditions, including thermal and shock resistance, making it suitable for adventurous activities.

In terms of fitness and health tracking, this smartwatch doesn’t hold back. It offers comprehensive monitoring of heart rate, sleep patterns, and even advanced metrics like heart rate variability, which can help you better understand your recovery and training needs. There's also a variety of built-in sports apps that cater to activities like running, swimming, and strength training, perfect for those who are serious about their fitness.

There are a few elements to consider. While the solar charging is a major plus, the battery capacity is relatively low at 4 mAh, which might be a concern for users who prefer longer periods between charges without relying on sunlight. The 1.27-inch display, although clear, might feel small for those accustomed to larger screens. Additionally, while it has a robust design, it may not be the most comfortable option for everyday wear due to its thickness and weight. It’s important to note that while it offers a wealth of features, some of the health metrics may not be entirely accurate since it’s not a medical device. The Garmin Instinct 2X Solar is an excellent choice for adventurers and fitness enthusiasts who appreciate durability and advanced tracking capabilities, but it may not be ideal for those looking for a sleek, everyday smartwatch.

The Garmin Forerunner 955 Solar is a highly capable smartwatch designed specifically for athletes, particularly those into running and triathlons. Its standout feature is the solar charging capability, which significantly extends its battery life—up to 20 days in smartwatch mode and even longer in GPS modes when exposed to bright sunlight. This is particularly beneficial for users who spend a lot of time outdoors. The always-on, full-color display is easy to read, making it user-friendly even in bright conditions.

On the fitness front, it offers a comprehensive range of health tracking features including training readiness scores, sleep analysis, and heart rate variability insights. These tools provide valuable feedback on your performance and recovery, helping you optimize your training plan. The built-in mapping features and access to multiple global navigation systems ensure accuracy in tracking your routes, which is a strong plus for runners and cyclists.

In terms of design, it’s lightweight, which adds to comfort during long workouts, but it’s important to note that if you prefer a more stylish watch for everyday wear, its sporty look might not appeal to everyone. Connectivity options like Bluetooth and USB are standard.

The Garmin Fenix 7X Solar is a large, rugged outdoor smartwatch designed for adventure enthusiasts who want reliable solar charging to extend battery life. Its 1.4-inch always-on display is bright and easy to read, with touchscreen controls complemented by physical buttons for use in tough environments. Solar charging can boost battery life significantly — up to 37 days in smartwatch mode or 122 hours in GPS mode when exposed to direct sunlight, making it great for long trips away from power sources. The watch is built to withstand harsh conditions and offers water resistance, so it can handle rain, sweat, and swimming.

Fitness and health tracking are comprehensive, covering heart rate, oxygen levels, sleep, stress, and over 30 sports profiles including running, skiing, swimming, and more. It provides advanced training metrics and stamina tracking useful for serious athletes. Navigation tools like multi-GNSS support, topo maps, and a built-in compass help outdoor explorers stay on track. Connectivity includes Bluetooth for syncing with Android or iOS phones, smart notifications, music storage, and Garmin Pay, adding convenience for everyday use.

The main drawbacks are its larger size and weight, which might feel bulky for some users or those with smaller wrists. While the interface is responsive, the combination of touchscreen and buttons can take some getting used to. The price tends to be on the higher side, reflecting its premium build and features. This watch suits active users who need a tough, feature-rich smartwatch with excellent solar charging and long battery life for extended outdoor adventures. It balances fitness tracking and smart features well, though its size and cost may not appeal to casual users.