The 10 Best GPS Running Watches

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This wiki has been updated 22 times since it was first published in January of 2019. Whether you want to train for a marathon, improve your endurance, or have a friendly competition with your friends, it's nice to have a way to keep an eye on your running analytics. A good GPS watch can not only track your distance, but also monitor your heart rate, steps, and more. The options on this list range from top-of-the-line models to utilitarian, budget-friendly choices. When users buy our independently chosen editorial selections, we may earn commissions to help fund the Wiki.

1. Garmin Forerunner 645

2. Garmin Forerunner 35

3. Fitbit Ionic

Editor's Notes

January 28, 2019:

Mostly focused on running (of course), but made sure to include some watches that have modes for other sports and activities (like swimming, golf, etc.). Made sure to find a good number of options that can be used as an everyday smartwatch, not just a "sports watch." Mostly focused on practical features, but tried to keep aesthetics in mind as well.

4. Coros Pace

5. Polar M430

6. Amazfit Bip

7. Garmin Vívoactive

8. TomTom Runner

9. Suunto Ambit3

10. JoyGeek Smart Bracelet


Sheila O'Neill
Last updated by Sheila O'Neill

Sheila is a writer and editor living in sunny Southern California. She studied writing and film at State University of New York at Purchase, where she earned her bachelor of arts degree. After graduating, she worked as an assistant video editor at a small film company, then spent a few years doing freelance work, both as a writer and a video editor. During that time, she wrote screenplays and articles, and edited everything from short films to infomercials. An ardent lover of the English language, she can often be found listening to podcasts about etymology and correcting her friends’ grammar.


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