Buzz
This article is part of Find Your Fit Tech, Mytour's guide to fitness wearables. I explore whether these devices truly enhance your health, how to choose the best one for your needs, and how to maximize the data they provide.
Runners were pioneers in adopting smartwatches. I recall when a 'running watch' was a bulky GPS device worn on the wrist, and it revolutionized the game when these devices began monitoring heart rate.
Today, every smartwatch monitors heart rate, location, and often much more. What sets a running watch apart? A wealth of fitness-focused features and essential details, such as physical buttons. Check out my recommendations below.
Key features to consider in a running watch
It's easy to get overwhelmed by technical specs and marketing hype, but ultimately, a watch's value lies in its ability to meet your specific needs. Think of it like hiring for a role: you don’t need someone who can do everything—just someone who excels at the tasks you require.
Here are some factors to consider when defining the 'job description' for your running watch. Some may be essential for you, while others might not matter at all.
Are physical buttons included?
For everyday use, it might not matter whether you press a physical button or tap a touchscreen. However, during intense activities like track running, sweaty and shaky fingers can make touchscreens frustrating. That’s why many runners favor watches with actual buttons. All our recommended options below include physical buttons.
How reliable is the GPS?
Every running smartwatch uses GPS to track your location—it's their primary function. (To be precise, GPS is just one form of global navigation satellite system, or GNSS, which is the broader term for location tracking.)
However, some location tracking systems outperform others in accuracy. The most precise smartwatches utilize multi-band GPS alongside other systems like GLONASS and Galileo. Be sure to check which systems a watch supports and if there are specific settings to configure. For instance, some watches require you to manually select a system, and others may offer a battery-saving mode that reduces accuracy for extended usage.
All our recommended models below incorporate multiple satellite systems (with one clear exception, as you’ll notice). It’s also worth mentioning that GNSS technology continues to improve, so newer models typically deliver the most accurate tracking.
How long does the battery last?
Many running watches are designed for all-day wear, even during sleep, with batteries that last several days on a single charge. A longer standby battery life means fewer charging interruptions.
However, if you’re training for long-distance events like marathons, you’ll need to know how long the watch can last during active use. Features like music playback and GPS tracking drain the battery faster than standby mode, so verify the watch’s active usage duration. We’ll specify battery life for our recommendations below.
Does it offer navigation, or only track your route?
Certain running watches come equipped with full navigation systems, including preloaded maps and turn-by-turn guidance. Others simply record your path, allowing you to review your route later. We’ll highlight which models include mapping features.
Does it provide guidance, or just record your activities?
Advanced running watches can monitor your fatigue levels, recommend workouts, and even guide you through personalized training plans. Simpler models, on the other hand, assume you’re managing your own training and focus solely on tracking your activities.
Are you looking for a dedicated running watch or a versatile smartwatch?
Before diving into the specifics of top running watches, consider whether you need a watch tailored for running with additional features or a general-purpose smartwatch that can also handle runs.
The watches we recommend prioritize running performance while still being suitable for daily use. If you’re seeking a smartwatch that doubles as a running companion, explore our guide on trackers for general health and fitness (LINK TK).
Our top recommendations for running watches
Considering these features, we’ve selected options to suit various budgets and preferences.
The crowd favorite: Garmin Forerunner 245 Music
It’s no exaggeration: Strava’s 2023 year-end report revealed that the Garmin Forerunner 245 Music is the most popular running watch among U.S. users. (Globally, its predecessor, the 235, took the top spot.) Despite being released in 2019, and with newer models available, this watch remains a top choice for countless runners.
What makes the Forerunner 245 Music stand out?
Battery life: Up to 7 days in smartwatch mode, or 6 hours with GPS and music during runs.
Offers workout suggestions and access to Garmin Coach training plans.
Includes advanced metrics like VO2max, Body Battery, training load, recovery time, and intensity minutes.
Location tracking: Supports GPS, GLONASS, and Galileo.
Music playback: Stores and plays music directly from the watch (opt for the standard 245 if this feature isn’t needed—it’s more affordable).
The Garmin Forerunner 245 Music is currently priced at $299.99 (originally $349.99).
Alternatives in this series:
The Forerunner 245 (without music) is more affordable at $199.99.
The latest model, the Forerunner 265, boasts double the battery life, twice the music storage, additional training readiness metrics, and enhanced location accuracy with multi-band GPS and SatIQ. It’s priced at $449.99, $150 more than the 245 Music.
Top budget choice: Garmin Forerunner 55 ($189.99)
If the 245 Music feels excessive, the straightforward Forerunner 55 might be a better fit. It includes all the core features of a modern running watch without unnecessary extras. For beginners looking to keep things simple, this would be my top recommendation. (If I later felt the need for advanced features, I’d consider upgrading.)
The Forerunner 55 offers up to two weeks of battery life in smartwatch mode or 20 hours with GPS tracking during runs.
Garmin Forerunner 55 ($189.99)
Other choices in this lineup:
The Forerunner 45, the earlier version, remains highly popular. While its battery life isn’t as robust and it lacks some of the latest training and recovery features, it’s still a reliable option. Find the Forerunner 45 for $139.99.
The hidden gem: Coros Pace 3 ($229)
While Garmin has long dominated the running watch market, Coros is gaining traction among runners. Though less common, Coros watches are praised for their lighter build and superior battery life compared to similar Garmin models.
How significant is the difference? The Coros Pace 3 offers 38 hours of GPS tracking during runs, compared to the Forerunner 265’s 20 hours. In smartwatch mode, it lasts 18 days with constant wear, versus the Forerunner 265’s 13 days. While there are tradeoffs, like a smaller and dimmer display, you also save $200.
Coros Pace 3, $229
Other models in this series:
The Coros Pace 2 is slightly more affordable at $179. It features a smaller screen, slightly shorter battery life, and uses four GNSS systems with single-band GPS, unlike the Pace 3’s five systems and dual-band GPS.
The Coros Apex 2 is a premium option at $349, offering extended battery life and full topographic maps. It’s ideal for trail runners.
The luxury choice for serious runners: Garmin Fenix 7 Pro Solar Sapphire ($899.99)
If you’re willing to invest in a premium running watch, the Fenix series is a top-tier choice. Available in multiple versions, here’s what sets this model apart:
Pro adds exclusive features like a built-in flashlight and an enhanced heart rate sensor.
Solar technology allows the watch to recharge using sunlight during your runs. (While it still requires charging, solar models need it less frequently—every 22 days compared to 18 for non-solar versions.)
Sapphire ensures the lens is made from scratch-resistant sapphire mineral, a step up from the durable Gorilla glass used in non-sapphire models.
7 indicates the mid-size (47 mm) version in the seventh generation. The 7S is smaller (42 mm), and the 7X is larger (52 mm).
The Garmin Fenix 7 Pro Sapphire Solar is priced at $899.99.
Fenix watches are packed with Garmin’s top features and boast exceptional battery life. In smartwatch mode, they can last weeks (up to three weeks with solar charging), and they support 10 hours of active use with GPS and music playback.
Other options in this series:
Customize your watch by selecting the features that suit you. For example, the Fenix 7S Solar (without Pro or Sapphire) is available for $579.99, offering 11 to 14 days of battery life depending on sunlight exposure.
Older Fenix models, like the Fenix 6 line, remain popular. While they lack newer features like a touchscreen or flashlight, their core functionality is similar. Opting for a refurbished model, such as the Fenix 6 Pro at $329.99, can save you a significant amount.
The minimalist choice favored by elite runners: Timex Ironman
Yes, this is a basic watch, and no, it’s not a joke. Many runners—particularly professional athletes—find the advanced features of smartwatches more distracting than useful.
The Timex Ironman features physical buttons, a stopwatch, and an on-demand backlight, all for $60. It stores split times for your workouts and tracks your average and best splits from previous sessions.
Timex Ironman, $39
Other models in this series:
The Ironman is available in multiple versions with minor differences. This model features a smaller 34 mm case (compared to the 43 mm version) and stores up to 30 lap times instead of 100.
The Armitron Dragonfly is another favored basic watch (and the one I personally use). Priced at $18, it offers fewer features but is compact, lightweight, and tracks your running duration in minutes.
