10 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 Instinct Solar is a rugged outdoor smartwatch designed with solar charging capabilities, greatly extending battery life. This makes it an excellent choice for adventurers who spend long periods outdoors. The watch is built to U.S. military standard 810, ensuring it is highly durable, withstanding thermal, shock, and water resistance up to 100 meters, making it suitable for various extreme conditions.

With a 1.27-inch display, the resolution is relatively basic at 128 x 128, which may not be as sharp as other smartwatches, but it is functional and easy to read in different lighting conditions. The built-in GPS, Glonass, and Galileo systems provide comprehensive navigation support in challenging environments, which is a significant advantage for outdoor activities.

Health and fitness tracking features are robust, including heart rate monitoring, stress tracking, sleep estimates, and Pulse Ox for oxygen saturation levels. These features help users monitor wellness effectively. However, it's important to note that the Pulse Ox feature is not intended for medical diagnosis. The user interface relies on buttons rather than a touchscreen, which could be less intuitive for some users, but it enhances usability in rugged conditions where touchscreens might fail.

Connectivity is primarily through Bluetooth and USB, and the watch is compatible with Android Wear 1.0. The Garmin Instinct Solar is heavier at 159 grams, which might be a consideration for some users. Despite these minor drawbacks, the watch is a solid choice for outdoor enthusiasts who prioritize durability, long battery life, and comprehensive fitness tracking in a smartwatch.