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 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.

The Garmin tactix 7 Pro Ballistics Edition is a robust solar-powered smartwatch designed for outdoor enthusiasts and tactical users. One of its major strengths is its solar charging capability, which can significantly extend battery life, offering up to 37 days in smartwatch mode when exposed to sunlight sufficiently. The rugged build, including a sapphire lens and a DLC-coated steel bezel, ensures durability, making it suitable for extreme conditions, while its water resistance adds peace of mind for active users.

This smartwatch is equipped with an always-on 1.4-inch display that combines both touchscreen and traditional button controls, allowing for easy navigation in various environments. The advanced navigation features, including preloaded maps and multi-GNSS support, cater to those who enjoy activities like hiking and skiing. Moreover, its specialized tactical features, such as Jumpmaster mode and an Applied Ballistics calculator, are particularly appealing for military personnel and tactical enthusiasts.

On the fitness front, the watch offers over 30 built-in sports apps, providing a comprehensive suite of health and performance metrics, which is excellent for those focused on fitness tracking. Additionally, it allows for smart features like notifications and contactless payments when paired with a smartphone.

There are a few drawbacks to consider. The watch is on the heavier side at 11.4 ounces, which might not be comfortable for everyone, especially during extended wear. The screen resolution of 280 x 280 pixels may not be the highest in the market, and while the solar charging is beneficial, its efficiency can vary depending on exposure to light. Lastly, the price point may be a consideration for users who are looking for basic smartwatch features without the tactical enhancements.

The Garmin tactix 7 Pro Ballistics Edition is an excellent option for those seeking durability, advanced tactical features, and robust fitness tracking, making it ideal for outdoor adventurers and tactical users alike.