Key Takeaways
- The majority of LTE smartwatches can track my running, golfing, biking, and hiking activities and enable me to send and receive text messages and make or receive calls without needing to be connected to my phone, but they all require a monthly subscription through a phone provider that the watch manufacturer partnered with. None of the highest-rated golf gps fitness watches, including the Garmin Approach S70 and S62 and the Garmin Vivoactive 4 golf smartwatch, come with LTE capabilities.
- The Garmin Forerunner 945 LTE running smartwatch has the most advanced running features of any LTE smartwatch, including grade-adjusted pace guidance throughout my runs, personalized daily suggested running workouts, and completion time predictions based on course details and my training performance during previous workouts, but I cannot use it to send text messages or make or receive phone calls. However, the LTE functionality enables my family to follow my real-time location and send me audio and text messages, even during the middle of a race.
- The LTE models of the Apple Watch Ultra, Apple Watch 8, Samsung Galaxy 5, and Google Pixel 4 smartwatches do not have access to the more advanced running features found in the Garmin Forerunner 945 LTE.
Whether you’re looking for the latest features in fitness tracking or just want something sleek and lightweight, there are plenty of LTE smartwatches out there that provide standalone cellular connectivity.
I will discuss why these watches are important for runners, highlight some of the best ones out there, and show what to look for when buying one.
Why Are Smartwatches Important for Running?
Smartwatches are not just trendy accessories – they can also be your running buddy. Besides keeping tabs on the basics like pace, distance covered, and time elapsed, some of these nifty gadgets go the extra mile by offering VO2 max estimates and predictions for race finish times. This information will tell me if I am training properly or if I need to adapt my running regimen to lower my times.
For instance, they can monitor my heart rate zones, allowing me to understand how hard I’ve been pushing myself during different stages of my run.
Smartwatches also track metrics like vertical oscillation, which measures how much I bounce up and down as I run and helps me gain a better understanding of my running form.
Stride length data is another cool feature, giving me an idea of the distance covered in each step and allowing me to analyze and optimize my gait.
Smartwatches will also provide me with the ground contact time metric which measures the duration between each foot’s contact with the ground. By analyzing this data, I can work on reducing this time to help me work towards a more balanced stride.
But wait! That’s not all – these innovative devices also offer features like race predictors and VO2 max estimates. The race predictor feature uses previous data from my runs and current fitness level to estimate finish times for various distances.
And if I’m curious about my aerobic fitness level but dread the idea of visiting a lab for testing, fear no more! The VO2 max estimate feature indicates how much oxygen my body consumes while exercising at maximum capacity.
Nearly all modern smartwatches for running come with built-in GPS tracking that not only maps my route but also gives turn-by-turn directions so that I don’t get lost while exploring new routes.
Smartwatches also have the ability to provide real-time feedback during my runs by delivering audio cues on key data points like pace or heart rate zones. This instant feedback tells me to make timely adjustments to my effort levels to optimize my training sessions.
Many models offer pre-loaded running workouts or customizable training programs and virtual coaches that guide me through workouts tailored to my fitness level and desired outcomes. These programs can guide runners through interval training sessions to help them achieve specific targets like increasing speed or endurance.
Some smartwatches come with built-in music storage or integration with popular streaming services, making them excellent motivational tools for my runs because I will be able to listen to my favorite tunes including ‘Eye of the Tiger’ without carrying around my iPhone. They allow me to create personalized playlists that will help me stay in rhythm and maintain a steady pace throughout my runs.
Some watches even allow users to compete with friends or other users through various challenges or leaderboards, adding an element of competition that keeps motivation high while providing the opportunity for social interaction within the running community.
Benefits of LTE Smartwatches That You Can Use Without a Phone
With LTE-enabled smartwatches, you no longer need to rely on your phone for connectivity and can enjoy a range of incredible benefits on your wrist. Firstly, LTE-enabled smartwatches allow you to make and receive calls directly from your wrist. This means you can leave your phone behind during short trips or workouts without missing important calls or messages.
In addition to calling, LTE smartwatches also support independent messaging capabilities. You can send and receive text messages, emails, and even use various messaging apps like WhatsApp or Facebook Messenger without needing your phone nearby. Imagine staying connected with friends and loved ones while having a jog in the park or going for a swim – pure freedom.
TThese are several models that support social media notifications right on your wrist, making it easier than ever to keep up with important updates from Instagram or Twitter.
LTE smartwatches also give me access to a range of real-time applications like weather forecasts and music streaming services. So next time you’re out exploring new routes while running or stuck in traffic during rush hour, you’ll have everything you need at your fingertips – quite literally!
Another key benefit is the GPS functionality found in LTE smartwatches which provide accurate location tracking and navigation services even without relying on a smartphone’s GPS signal. This comes in handy during outdoor activities like hiking or running in unfamiliar areas where carrying a phone may be cumbersome or inconvenient.
Most importantly, LTE smartwatches offer me life-saving features such as emergency calling and GPS tracking. In case of an emergency or when exploring new places, having a direct line of communication without relying on a smartphone can be invaluable.
Best Standalone LTE Smartwatches for Running with Built-in Cellular Connectivity
In this section, I will look at the best standalone LTE Smartwatches for running with built-in cellular connectivity. Specifically, I will be looking at the Garmin Forerunner 945 LTE, Apple Watch Ultra LTE [GPS + Cellular 49mm], Apple Watch 8 LTE [GPS + Cellular 45mm], Samsung Galaxy Watch 5 4G LTE, Samsung Galaxy Watch 5 Pro LTE, and Google Pixel Watch 4G LTE.
These watches combine the convenience of a standalone smartwatch with the added benefit of having built-in cellular connectivity so you can stay connected without needing to use your phone.
Garmin Forerunner 945 LTE
Of all the watches on this list, the Garmin Forerunner 945 LTE has the most limited LTE functionality because I cannot use it to make or receive calls or send text messages. However, my family and friends can follow my location in real-time, send me audio and text messages, and even receive automatic race updates that include the miles I completed and time elapsed.
Because of the cellular connectivity, this watch can prioritize your safety with its Assistance Plus feature, allowing you to quickly send your location and name to emergency contacts if needed. It also supports contactless payments through Garmin Pay, making it convenient to make purchases without carrying your wallet.
In terms of entertainment, the Forerunner 945 LTE allows you to download up to 1,000 songs for music playback during your workouts. It also comes with full-color onboard maps, providing navigation and guidance during your runs or rides.
When it comes to battery life, the Forerunner 945 LTE impresses with up to 12 hours in GPS mode while listening to music and 7 hours in GPS mode with normal usage of music and LTE LiveTrack.
The main reason why anyone should buy this watch is that it has more advanced running features than any other watch in this article, including advice from experienced running coaches, training plans that adapt to your goals, personalized daily suggested running workouts, and predictions for race finish times that are based on your past workouts up to that point.
Product Specs:
- LTE Connectivity
- Safety Features
- Music Playback
- wrist-based heart rate monitor
- Fitness Metrics
- Garmin Pay
- Onboard Maps
- Training Guidance
- Battery Life (up to 12 hrs w/music)
Pros:
- Keeps you connected without needing a phone nearby
- Provides an added layer of safety during activities
- Supports contactless payments
- Offers onboard maps for navigation & guidance
- Includes daily suggested running workouts & training plans
- In-built music storage can store about 1,000 songs
Cons:
- Must pay $5.99/month for an annual subscription (or $6.99/mo w/o)
- Cannot make or receive calls or send text messages over LTE
Apple Watch Ultra LTE [GPS + Cellular 49mm]
The Apple Watch Ultra LTE [GPS + Cellular 49mm] is a rugged and durable smartwatch that offers up to 36 hours of battery life, advanced workout metrics, and enhanced health and safety features. It has a 49mm corrosion-resistant titanium case and is 100m water-resistant with an Always-On Retina display that remains visible even in direct sunlight.
Out of all of the watches in this article, it is the most accurate at tracking your runs because it is the first one to offer precision dual-frequency GPS, utilizing the L1 and L5 frequencies. This will give you more accurate tracking of distance, routes, and pace even in steep canyons. It also has a customizable action button for instant physical control over various functions.
With this device, you can stay connected via cellular connectivity with up to 18 hours of all-day LTE battery life, while it works almost anywhere with international roaming.
The Apple Watch Ultra comes with a specialized band for each activity, such as the Trail Loop band for runners or the Ocean Band for water sports enthusiasts.
Product Specs:
• 49mm corrosion-resistant titanium case
• 100m water resistance
• Always On Retina Display that remains visible even in direct sunlight
• Advanced Workout Metrics & Precision Dual Frequency GPS
• Outdoor Run workout metrics include current heart rate, rolling mile, average page, distance, running cadence, stride length, ground contact time, vertical oscillation, segment number, segment pace, and segment distance
• Customizable Action Button
• 18 Hours All Day LTE Battery Life
Pros:
• Rugged & Durable Design
• Bright Always On Retina Display
• Health & Safety Features
• Precision Dual Frequency GPS for more accurate tracking
• Specialized Bands For Each Activity
• 83% of Amazon customers gave it a 5-star rating
Cons:
• Strap Might Be Tough/Uncomfortable
• At a price of about $800, it is the most expensive watch in this article
Apple Watch 8 LTE [GPS + Cellular 45mm]
The Apple Watch 8 LTE [GPS + Cellular 45mm] is a rugged and durable smartwatch with an Always-On Retina display, advanced workout metrics, and enhanced health and safety features.
With its bright 1000 nits LTPO OLED display, you can easily check the time and notifications without raising your wrist. You can even make calls and stream music directly from the watch while traveling internationally. The watch is available in sizes and materials with dozens of bands to choose from, perfect for customizing it according to your needs.
The innovative safety features like Crash Detection, Fall Detection, Emergency SOS provide you with urgent assistance when needed. And its advanced health features like temperature sensing, blood oxygen monitoring, ECG readings give deep insights into women’s health.
As for compatibility, it works seamlessly with your Apple devices giving you access to unlock Mac automatically or pay/send money with Apple Pay. Plus it has up to 18 hours of battery life so you don’t have to worry about recharging every day!
Product Specs:
• GPS + Cellular 45mm
• Bright 1000 nits LTPO OLED display
• Up to 18 hours of battery life
• 32 GB storage capacity can store up to 2000 songs
Pros:
• Improved Display – customers appreciate the larger & brighter display
• Durability – tough & swimproof (WR50 water resistance)
• Innovative Safety Features – Crash detection & Fall Detection
Cons:
• Battery Life – requires daily charging
• Bulky Design – might be uncomfortable during activities
• User Interface Learning Curve – requires time to adjust to navigation & gestures
• Software Sluggishness – reported as sluggish during outdoor activities
• Clothing Interference – occasionally accepts commands from clothing
• Limited Audio – requires additional devices for full audio playback
Samsung Galaxy Watch 5 4G LTE
The Samsung Galaxy Watch 5 4G LTE is perfect for active lifestyles as it includes advanced sleep coaching, body composition analysis, Bioelectrical Impedance Analysis Sensor (BIA), curved Samsung BioActive Sensor with improved sensor accuracy, auto workout tracking, and enhanced GPS. The durable sapphire crystal glass face provides protection against everyday wear and tear.
The Samsung Galaxy Watch 5 4G LTE also comes equipped with a customizable look that lets you choose from a wide array of bands and watch faces to match your style. It is also compatible with other Galaxy devices so you can sync seamlessly across all of them. However, some features may not work as well with non-Samsung devices and may require an additional data plan for full LTE functionality.
Product Specs:
• LTE Connectivity
• Advanced Sleep Coaching
• Body Composition Analysis
• Bioelectrical Impedance Analysis Sensor (BIA)
• Curved Samsung BioActive Sensor provides more accurate heart rate measurements because it is located closer to your skin
• Auto Workout Tracking
• Enhanced Battery
• Sapphire Crystal Glass
• Enhanced GPS
Pros:
• LTE connectivity enables phone-free functionality
• Curved Samsung BioActive Sensor give you improved sensor accuracy
• Advanced sleep tracking helps you monitor sleep quality
• BIA provides detailed body composition information
• Accurate heart rate monitoring with improved sensor
• Auto workout tracking covers a wide range of activities
• Enhanced battery life for longer usage
• Durable sapphire crystal glass face
• Enhanced GPS for outdoor exploration
• Seamless syncing with other Galaxy devices
• Customizable appearance to match your style
Cons:
• LTE functionality may require an additional data plan
• Price might be higher compared to other fitness trackers or smartwatches
• Sleep Tracking Accuracy questionable
• Battery Life requires daily charging in heavy usage scenarios
• Compatibility optimized for Samsung Galaxy smartphones only
Samsung Galaxy Watch 5 Pro LTE
The Galaxy Watch 5 Pro LTE comes with LTE connectivity, advanced sleep coaching, body composition analysis, Bioelectrical Impedance Analysis Sensor (BIA), improved sensor accuracy, auto workout tracking, and enhanced GPS. With an independent connection to the internet, users can make calls, send texts, and stay connected without needing to be tethered to their smartphone.
The watch also provides me with detailed reports on sleep stages and quality as well as comprehensive body composition data. The Samsung BioActive Sensor also ensures accurate heart rate monitoring while over 90 exercises, including running, walking, elliptical training, rowing, and cycling, can be tracked automatically or manually. The improved battery life is suitable for outdoor activities, and the sapphire crystal glass and titanium case provide durability for more active lifestyles.
Product Specs:
- LTE Connectivity
- Advanced Sleep Tracking
- Body Composition Analysis
- Bioelectrical Impedance Analysis Sensor (BIA)
- Heart Rate Monitoring
- Auto Workout Tracking
- Improved Battery Life
- GPS Route Tracking
- Sapphire Crystal Glass & Titanium Case
Pros:
- Standalone use without requiring a smartphone connection.
- Comprehensive health data from advanced sleep tracking & body composition analysis.
- Accurate heart rate measurement with improved sensor technology.
- Automatically tracks various exercises & manual tracking of over 90 activities available.
- Durable materials provide protection for outdoor adventures & extended usage.
- Seamless integration with other Galaxy devices through voice assistant compatibility.
Cons:
- Bulky size might not appeal to all users.
- User interface may take time getting used to if transitioning from different platform/device type.
- Features may have limited availability in some regions due to regulations or compatibility issues.
- Accuracy issues reported by some users regarding certain sensors, like SpO2 sensor.
- Water protection feature can restrict access to other functions when engaged.
Google Pixel Watch 4G LTE
If you’re in the market for a LTE smartwatch for running, the Google Pixel Watch 4G LTE is an excellent option. This watch has a sleek and stylish circular design with scratch-resistant Corning Gorilla Glass and stainless steel finishes. It runs on Wear OS by Google, allowing you to access various apps and functionalities. It also includes Fitbit activity tracking, heart rate monitoring, sleep tracking, 6 months of Fitbit Premium access, ECG feature to assess your heart rhythm for potential issues like AFib, and Emergency SOS that can alert trusted contacts or emergency services when needed.
The watch supports both Wi-Fi and LTE connectivity so that you can stay connected even if your phone isn’t nearby. You can also use Google Assistant to set reminders and get information quickly. And it works seamlessly with Pixel phones as well as other compatible devices like Pixel Buds.
In terms of drawbacks, some users found the battery life to be less than expected while others felt that the price was too high in comparison to what it offers. There have also been reports of software related issues such as boot errors as well as NFC payment difficulties due to security errors which might affect its usefulness for transactions. Lastly the calorie tracking accuracy has been questioned by some due to its tendency to overestimate calorie burn metrics.
Product Specs:
• Circular domed design with scratch-resistant Corning Gorilla Glass & stainless steel finishes
• Wear OS by Google operating system
• Fitbit activity tracking & 6 months of premium access
• Heart rate & sleep tracking
• ECG feature & Emergency SOS
• Wi-Fi & LTE connectivity
Pros:
• Easy setup & use
• Appealing design
• Valuable safety features
• Solid construction & durability
Cons:
• Battery life not up to expectations
• Expensive compared to similar products
• Software/UI issues
• Difficulty with NFC payments
• Calorie tracking accuracy not reliable
Garmin Vívoactive 3 Music 4G LTE-enabled
I would avoid purchasing the LTE version of the Garmin Vivoactive 3 because many customers were complaining about not being able to get their watch to connect to their Verizon account.
The Vívoactive 3 Music 4G LTE-enabled gives you extensive health monitoring features and over 25 built-in sports apps for tracking your activities. With this device, you can track your Body Battery energy levels, sleep score and insights, fitness age, stress tracking and more. It also has preloaded workouts that include cardio, yoga, strength, HIIT and Pilates. Plus it allows you to download up to 500 songs from select music services so you can work out without your phone. Also it is LTE-connected which means it has safety and tracking features as well as text messaging capabilities.
This watch’s battery life lasts up to 5 days in smartwatch mode or up to 4 hours when connected to Verizon using GPS and playing music with the LiveTrack feature over 4G LTE. It also comes with Elevate wrist-based heart rate technology that lets you monitor key aspects of your fitness such as VO2 max and fitness age so you can improve over time with regular exercise. Also advanced sleep monitoring helps give insight into how much restful sleep you’ve been getting each night.
Product Specs:
• LTE connectivity;
• Health Snapshot feature;
• Body Battery energy levels;
• Sleep score and insights;
• Fitness age;
• Stress tracking;
• 25+ built-in indoor/GPS sports apps;
• Preloaded workouts (cardio/yoga/strength);
• Garmin Coach free adaptive training plans;
• Download up to 500 songs from select music services;
Pros:
• Extensive health monitoring features;
• Over 25 built-in sports apps for tracking activities;
• Preloaded workouts;
• Ability to download up to 500 songs from select music services;
• LTE connectivity enabled for phone-free safety & tracking features;
• Elevate wrist-based heart rate technology for key aspects of fitness;
• Advanced sleep monitoring.
Cons:
• Avoid this watch because it cannot make a connection with a Verizon account
• Requires monthly Verizon service plan;
• Battery life only lasts up to 5 days in smartwatch mode or 4 hours while on the network.
Factors to Consider Before Buying a Smartwatch with LTE Connectivity
Before committing to a smartwatch with LTE connectivity, there are a few key factors to consider.
Running features like race predictor and VO2 max can be incredibly helpful in tracking progress over time. Battery life is also something to keep in mind when making your decision.
Price plays an important role in the buying process. It’s important to find something that fits within your budget.
Running Metrics
Running watches from Garmin, including the Forerunner and Vivoactive models, offer the biggest variety of metrics to track your runs. These include heart rate zones, vertical oscillation, stride length, and ground contact time. Some models even offer advanced analytics such as race predictor, lactate threshold, and VO2 max.
Race Predictor
With Vívoactive’s Race Predictor feature, you can get a realistic estimate of your 5K, 10K, half and full marathon times based on your training data. The watch will analyze weeks of your training history to create an accurate prediction.
It doesn’t factor in external variables like weather or course difficulty though. To ensure accuracy, the watch needs several runs before it can give a reliable projection.
These times are predictions only, so don’t rely on them too heavily. They’re still useful for setting goals and tracking progress though!
VO2 max
Knowing my VO2 max can help me track my aerobic fitness and adjust training goals. It’s a great way to measure my potential for endurance activities like running, but it usually requires expensive lab equipment.
Fortunately, Garmin offers an estimated VO2 max score based on heart rate data from their smartwatches. These watches can be worn during workouts to monitor heart rate in real-time and provide accurate estimates of VO2 max without the need for lab tests.
With one of these devices, I can accurately track changes in aerobic capacity throughout various workout sessions, helping me stay motivated as I reach new goals.
Battery life
Battery life on LTE-enabled smartwatches is typically shorter than those without cellular connectivity. This can be a major issue for runners who want to stay connected and don’t want to carry their phones while they exercise.
Fortunately, there are several watches with built-in LTE capabilities that provide longer battery life than traditional models. The Apple Watch Ultra with a 36 hour battery life and the Apple Watch 8 with an 18 hour battery life are some of the best options for runners who need reliable battery life while still having access to internet and phone services.
These watches can offer up to 18 hours of battery life when using LTE, which is more than enough time for most running sessions.
Price
Considering the added features, LTE smartwatches can be pricey and often cost more upfront than ones without cellular connectivity. But that doesn’t mean you need to break the bank to get one for running. You can find affordable LTE smartwatch options with a range of prices depending on what features you desire.
The cheapest LTE smartwatch in this article is the Google Pixel Watch 4G LTE with a price of about $300 but it has the shortest battery life of any of the watches mentioned in this article.
The most expensive LTE smartwatch in this article is the Apple Watch Ultra LTE with a price of about $800 because it uses dual-frequency GPS technology to give users the most accurate tracking and it also has the largest display and longest battery life.
Compatibility With Your Phone
It’s important to make sure the smartwatch you choose is compatible with your phone. Apple Watch works only with iPhones, while Pixel Watch and Samsung watches work only with Android. Doing your research to ensure you get the best fit for your needs is key.
If you have an iPhone, then an Apple Watch should be a great choice. However, if you have an Android phone, it’s best to look into brands like Pixel and Samsung. They offer their own unique versions of smartwatches that are tailored to that operating system. With these options, you can find one that offers everything from fitness tracking capabilities to music streaming services—all without needing a phone connection!
The bottom line is, no matter what type of phone you have, there are plenty of LTE-enabled smartwatches out there that can give you freedom and convenience while running or working out.
Sensors
With so many sensors available, it’s important to pick a smartwatch that offers the right ones for you.
To start with, GPS is essential for any runner; it helps accurately measure your location and distance covered. Luckily, all modern LTE smartwatches come with a built-in GPS chip. GLONASS was created by Russia and is very similar to United States’ GPS. It is useful in areas where GPS signals can be weak.
If you like tracking elevation during running sessions, then a barometric altimeter would be ideal. Also having a compass on board allows you to find your way back home if you ever get lost while out running.
A wrist-based heart rate monitor ensures accurate readings of your heart rate throughout the run. A gyroscope and an accelerometer will help track your movements more precisely, as well as provide feedback about your progress.
