Best Running Watches for 2024

Key Takeaways

• The Most Innovative – The Garmin Forerunner 965 features an AMOLED display, stamina tracking insights for ultrarunners, daily suggested workouts, training readiness and sleep scores, preloaded road and trail maps, and 23 day battery life in smartwatch mode and 31 hours in GPS mode.

• Cheapest Garmin Running Watch with AMOLED Display – The Garmin Forerunner 265 matches the distance and pace tracking precision of top-tier GPS watches for a fraction of the cost with GPS, heart rate, and pacing analyses that precisely benchmark performance.

• The Most Durable – The Garmin Fenix 7 is encapsulated in a virtually indestructible sapphire glass and aircraft grade titanium able to withstand backcountry beatings while packing advanced sensors, LED flashlight, and weeks-long battery life. It even comes with all of the best golf features from the Garmin S70, making it the best smartwatch with golf gps and running activity tracking.

• Lightest Running Watch – The Coros Pace 2 packs over 30 hours of battery life and impressive GPS tracking and optical heart rate accuracy in an ultra light body for under $200.

• The Best Smartwatch Hybrid – The Apple Watch Ultra complements iOS ecosystem connectivity via notifications, payments, Siri and more with ruggedized construction catering to adventure usage.

• The Most Purpose-Built Trail Watch – The Polar Grit X Pro is secured in hardened weatherproof titanium casing, monitors most of the environmental/physiological factors that Garmin watches track, and is specifically tailored for ultrarunning extremes with 40 hours of battlefield ready GPS battery life.

Running watches have become an indispensable tool for runners looking to track their workouts, improve their performance, and get the most out of their training. With so many models on the market ranging from basic GPS watches to advanced running computers on your wrist, it can be tricky to determine which is right for your needs and budget.

I’ve tested dozens of running watches over the years, from entry level models to top-end super watches packed with every bell and whistle. Based on my first-hand experience training and racing with these watches, I’ve picked my top recommendations for 2023 based on accuracy, features, comfort, battery life, and value.

Whether you’re training for your first 5K or chasing a new marathon PR, these watches will help you achieve your running goals this year and beyond. While your budget will naturally limit your options, you also want to consider what features are most important for your individual needs. So allow me to tell you what to look for in a running watch and break down the pros and cons of my top picks.

What to Look for in a Running Watch

A good running watch goes far beyond simply tracking your distance. The best running watches provide advanced metrics to help you train smarter, stay motivated through long runs, and analyze your performance. Here are the key features to keep in mind when selecting a running watch:

Type of runner

Think about your running frequency, typical distance and if you race often. Top-end watches with extensive metrics cater more for serious runners training for marathons and ultras. Casual runners logging a few short miles a week won’t need to pay up for every bell and whistle.

Accurate GPS Tracking

The number one job of any running watch is accurately measuring your distance, pace, route, and other run stats. GPS accuracy can vary quite a bit between different watch models. Factors like tree cover overhead, tall buildings in cities, and even current solar activity can impact accuracy.

Watches use either connected GPS from your phone or onboard GPS built right into the watch. Connected GPS relies on your phone’s sensors while onboard GPS allows tracking without needing your phone handy. In general, onboard GPS offers better accuracy when compared to phones.

Optical Heart Rate Sensors

Most modern running watches use LED lights to detect your pulse from your wrist. This optical heart rate monitoring allows you to see your heart rate trends during workouts and your resting heart rate for overall health monitoring. Heart rate data helps determine your training zones and calculate calories burned.

Optical sensors are convenient but chest straps generally provide more accurate and consistent heart rate data during intense training. If you do a lot of speed work or race frequently, a chest strap HRM may be worthwhile for tracking max heart rate and zones.

Training Metrics and Analysis

Advanced metrics like VO2 max, training load, and recovery time help you optimize your training, avoid overtraining, and periodize your training cycle leading up to a big race. Being able to analyze your running data can provide valuable insights over the long term.

Features like workout recommendations, adaptive training plans, and post-run feedback help you continuously improve. It’s useful to have both subjective feedback on how you felt during a run and correlate that with objective data like pace and heart rate.

Smartwatch Capabilities

Many modern running watches also offer smartwatch features when not recording a workout. This includes things like smartphone notifications, contactless payments, onboard music storage, and downloadable apps.

These smart features are nice bonuses for everyday use. The ability to customize your watch face, display multiple data fields during activities, and swap out apps helps tailor the watch to your preferences.

Battery Life

Depending on the model, battery life can range wildly from as little as a single day in smartwatch mode up to 30+ hours in GPS mode. In general, the more advanced features a watch has, the lower its battery life.

For everyday use, you’ll want a watch that can last at least a few days without charging. For ultrarunners and triathletes, maximize GPS battery life. You want to be able to finish that backcountry run or Ironman without losing tracking midway through.

Budget

Entry-level running watches such as the Cronos 2 can be found for under $200 while high-end models creep up towards $1,000. Set a budget and find the best watch you can afford that matches your accuracy needs and feature wants. You don’t have to break the bank to get great tracking!

Design and comfort

You’ll be wearing your running watch daily during workouts and all day as a timepiece, so it needs to fit your personal style and remain comfortable. The Fitbit Charge 5 and 6 are made from lightweight materials and cases that won’t cause skin irritation.

Smartwatch connectivity

If you want to receive notifications and interact with your watch like a smart device for music and payments, watches like the Apple Watch Ultra provide great iOS connectivity albeit at a premium.

The Best Running Watches for 2023

After testing out all the newest running watches myself, I’ve selected my top picks across a range of budgets and use cases. I prioritized accuracy, comfort, battery life, and performance metrics that provide actionable insights.

Garmin Forerunner 965 – Best Overall Watch for Serious Runners

As the flagship running watch in Garmin’s 2023 lineup, the Forerunner 965 has quickly become my daily driver for both training runs and races thanks to its perfect balance of features, accuracy, and comfort.

Running Dynamics and Metrics

The FR965 also expands upon running dynamics by introducing a new Vertical Oscillation and Vertical Ratio graph to monitor technique and efficiency. After my trail runs and hikes, I can break down the interplay between my VO, Ground Contact Time Balance data, cadence, pace, heart rate and impact on performance. These advanced running power metrics exceed what lower-end Forerunners offer for those wanting a deep biomechanics dive.

The integrated stamina and fuel management tracking also stands out as an innovative feature not found on predecessor watches. During long trail runs in the mountains, the FR965 proactively reminds me to refuel or hydrate based on distance covered, elevation gained, and intensity to optimize performance. By considering exertion alongside duration, it provides smart pacing guidance accounting for accumulated fatigue. For ultrarunners constantly pushing into 20+ mile distances, this stamina monitoring and fuel suggestion feedback helps avoid bonking late in activities. No other watch in Garmin’s portfolio currently matches this unique focus tailored for endurance athletes tackling activities of five hours or longer off the grid.

With the 965 strapped to my wrist, I can nerd out on a trove of detailed run metrics like vertical oscillation, ground contact time, stride length, cadence, pace, elevation, and heart rate with precision.

On a recent half marathon PB attempt, I glanced down mid-race to check my current pace was on target for a PR based on live V02 Max tracking. The Training Readiness score told me when to push through fatigue versus when I risked injury if my body wasn’t recovered.

Mapping and Navigation

When tackling trail runs in new-to-me locations, I rely extensively on the full-color onboard mapping which plots my route in real-time. The back-to-start feature gives peace of mind I won’t get lost.

Vibrating wrist alerts tip me off for upcoming turns. I can pan/zoom the map with the touchpad and see topographical details of surrounding terrain. This has been a trail runner’s dream watch when venturing off the beaten path.

Touchscreen Interface

The touchscreen makes navigating through data pages and menus intuitive and it is still responsive even mid-run with sweaty fingers. I customized multiple widgets to swipe through for the details I care about most.

However, the touchscreen does take some getting used to if you’re used to physical buttons. I accidentally zoomed in and out of the map several times trying to switch data pages. It did take me a few runs to adjust coming from a button-based interface. But now swiping through metrics feels second nature. I also appreciate the haptic feedback confirming each tap or swipe.

Display

The Garmin Forerunner 965 stands out for its vibrant 1.4-inch diameter full round color touchscreen display. With a high resolution of 454 x 454 pixels, the screen is incredibly sharp and allows very crisp visibility of multiple data fields and stats even while moving at high speeds outdoors and even under the brightest direct sunlight thanks to the Power Sapphire lens. I’ve never had issues reading my stats mid-run. I can clearly read all the metrics like distance, pace, heart rate zones, and mapping details at a quick glance mid-run or bike thanks to the high pixel density resulting in clear finite details.

Compared to past-generation Garmin running watches, the 965’s display takes a noticeable leap with its responsive touch capabilities allowing easy swiping through data pages and menus. Even with sweat or rain on my fingers, the touchscreen remains highly functional. The display automatically adjusts brightness levels so I never struggle reading my stats, unlike some models that appear washed out in sunlight. Garmin also claims increased scratch resistance and brightness compared to the Forerunner 955’s display, which is welcome durability for a $600 investment. Overall the vibrant high-resolution touchscreen display excels in all conditions and provides the modern touch-capable experience runners expect in late model premium sports watches.

Battery Life

Even with daily GPS tracked running, all-day heart rate, and notifications enabled, I easily get a solid week of battery life between charges. For ultras and multi-day adventures, it lasts even longer in GPS mode upwards of 30 hours.

For runners obsessed with data and willing to invest in the best, the Forerunner 965 takes an already phenomenal watch even further. It justifies the high price for serious athletes.

While very expensive at $599, serious trail runners will appreciate the touchpad interface and route mapping. But for road runners, I’d likely still recommend the simpler 955 to save money.

Improvements vs Other Models

• More running dynamics than FR255/245
• More music storage than the 945/265/255
• Trail running features over road-focused watches

Ideal For Serious runners and triathletes who value navigation and training for any race distance who want robust data analysis and metrics.

Pros:

• Touchscreen is responsive even when wet/sweaty
• Vibrant full-color mapping of trails/routes
• Quick access to fuel and hydration reminders
• Advanced running dynamics metrics
• Long 15 day battery life with smart features

Cons:

• Expensive at $599 with marginal gains over FR955
• Overkill for casual runners tracking basic mileage
• Touchscreen has a learning curve over buttons
• Reduced battery life compared to Forerunner 955

Garmin Fenix 7

For serious outdoor adventurers willing to pay a premium for top notch build quality and sensors, the Fenix 7 provides everything you could ask for in an amazing experience watch with an indestructible casing built for backcountry exploits. This rugged watch includes features like turn-by-turn navigation, 3-axis compass, barometer and altimeter sensor, plus dozens of sport modes.

Over a series of trail runs in the mountains wearing both models, I appreciated the vibrating wrist alerts for upcoming turns using the course navigation. The mapping also provides clear visibility even in direct sunlight.

That said, this high-end Garmin outdoor watch is probably overkill for most runners who can get by with more affordable options like the Forerunner line. But if you love multi-sport adventures beyond just running, the Fenix 7 is as good as it gets. Just be prepared to pay $700+ for the ultimate outdoor GPS computer on your wrist.

GPS accuracy
After testing GPS accuracy by running a 5K loop route multiple times, distance varied more widely on Fenix 7 vs Forerunner watches (up to 0.25 mi).

Barometric altimeter comparisons against known elevation signage showed Fenix temps impacted readings by as much as 30 ft!
Rugged Design

The military grade durability and scratch proof sapphire glass gives me confidence my investment is protected from the elements even on my most extreme pursuits tackling 50+ mile ultras through rugged terrain. So far so good after a year of constant abuse!

Activity Tracking

With dozens of built-in sports apps encompassing everything from running, hiking and biking to paddle boarding, climbing and even tactical training, the Fenix 7 keeps up with all my fitness pursuits.

I like enabling the automatic activity type detection so my miles get correctly allocated between running, trail running or hiking without manually having to switch modes constantly.

Onboard Maps

When pushing deep into remote trails far from cell service, I trust the onboard topographical TOPO mapping to track my routes with GPS breadcrumbs and navigate back safely if needed. Weather widgets show incoming wind, rain and snow to help me gear up properly before heading out.

The Fenix 7 certainly seems overbuilt for a casual 5K jogger, but I appreciate having the ultimate multisport outdoor GPS toolbox condensed into one burly timepiece built to last a lifetime. For marathoners or ultrarunners often far from civilization exploring trails, it provides peace of mind and then some.

Just be warned the improved tech and titanium casing does come at a literal physical weight – weighing nearly 100g, the Fenix 7 is a beast on your wrist!

Ideal for: Hardcore adventurers and outdoor athletes willing to pay premium for ultimate durability and sensors.

Pros:

• Nearly unmatched durability and outdoor tracking
• Crisp color mapping great for navigation
• Premium sapphire screens almost scratchproof

Cons:

• Very expensive, overkill for dedicated runners
• Heavy and bulky on wrist for all-day wear
• No Spotify/Amazon Music support

Garmin Epix Gen 2

As an amazing experience watch with some added smartwatch chops, the Epix Gen 2 bridges the gap nicely for runners seeking navigation and fitness tracking in an attractive AMOLED package.

Vibrant Display

The always-on 1.3″ AMOLED display with touchscreen input makes interacting with widgets and data fields intuitive with crisp colors that pop, rivaling fancier Apple Watches. Adjusting brightness is a cinch swiping down from the top. The touch response remains fast even in the rain or with sweaty hands.

Premium Materials

Sapphire glass protects from scratches while the titanium bezel adds durability without looking overly rugged. At 60g the Epix Gen 2 remains light enough for 24-7 wear. Physical buttons offer a reassuring tactile click when gloved or wet.

This watch is built for explorers who value durable materials but prefer wearing a stylish timepiece to dinner post-adventure over a bulky tank.

Extensive Tracking

With ABC sensors (altimeter, barometer and compass) plus ECG, sleep and respiration data, the Epix Gen 2 goes the extra mile capturing environmental stats and vitals beyond my running performance.

Over a recent long trail run climbing multiple mountain peaks, I loved monitoring ascent, descent, grade and altitude graphs for added context paired to my heart rate and pace data. More immersive than pure numbers!

At a $900 sticker price, the Epix Gen 2 costs a premium over Garmin’s other sports watches. But if you want the latest tech and materials wrapped in a stylish package, it delivers.

Pros:

• Touchscreen response remains fast even using gloves in winter or wet fingers, a marked improvement over old buttons. But buttons provide nice tactile feedback.

Cons:

• Very expensive, overkill for dedicated runners
• BYOD workouts available on some golf watches are missing
• No solar charging support to augment already short battery
• Fewer advanced training plans/insights than flagship running watches

Garmin Forerunner 955

The Garmin Forerunner 955 can quickly become your go-to watch for daily training and races because it offers the perfect balance of advanced metrics, great battery life, and a slim comfortable design you can wear all day long. This watch builds upon the previous 945 model, keeping all the best features runners love while optimizing the hardware and software.

I especially appreciate the touchscreen LCD display, which makes navigating menus and swiping through data screens so much easier compared to solely using the physical buttons. It has a high-resolution of 260 x 260 pixels that enables the color screen to offer excellent visibility even in direct sunlight. Weighing in at only 52 grams with a comfortable silicone strap, I barely even notice it on my wrist.

Accurate Onboard GPS and Heart Rate

The 955 provides highly accurate distance and pace tracking thanks to its dual-band onboard GPS, which quickly locks onto satellites. I’ve tested it on routes in dense forests and cities alike and it consistently provides solid data and tracks my routes precisely.

The wrist-based heart rate monitor accurately tracks my heart rate trends and intensity throughout activities. For high intensity interval sessions, I’ll still occasionally use a chest strap HRM for the most precise tracking. But for most training runs, the optical sensor works great. I also appreciate the continuous heart rate monitoring for better calorie burn insights. During sleep, it reliably tracks my sleep stages and SpO2 levels.

In-Depth Training Metrics and Analysis

Since I love the challenge of running marathons, I love having access to detailed running dynamics like vertical oscillation and ground contact time to help improve my form. After a workout, I can break down my splits, elevation, heart rate zones, cadence, and more.

The Training Readiness score helps me determine if I’m recovered and ready for a tough speed session. Training load and recovery time estimates guide me in planning rest days and avoiding overtraining. I’ve managed to avoid major injuries and race ready thanks to the guidance provided by these advanced metrics.

Great Training App

The Garmin Connect app synchronizes my workout data seamlessly and displays trends over time. I can track my aerobic and anaerobic training effects, performance condition, and training load balance. This analysis helps me dial in my training and periodize properly leading up to goal races.

Long Battery Life

Even with heavy usage including GPS running, heart rate tracking, and notifications, I can easily get 2 weeks of battery life before needing to charge. In GPS mode without music, it lasts for over 30 hours allowing me to track the longest ultra trail races. Even if I turned the music on the entire time, I would still get about 10 hours. I never worry about losing GPS signal mid-run unless I’m embarking on a multi-day backcountry adventure.

Solar Edition

There is a solar edition that costs $100 that will give you nearly 3 weeks of battery life in smartwatch mod and nearly 50 hours of battery life in GPS-only mode with minimal music playback.

Ideal For: Serious runners and triathletes training for any distance who want robust data analysis and training metrics.

Pros:

• Highly accurate GPS distance and pacing
• Touchscreen display with great visibility
• Dozens of run metrics for effective training
• Long battery life up to 15 days smartwatch mode

Cons:

• Expensive for more budget-minded runners
• Very data driven not as user friendly
• Overkill for casual runners just tracking mileage

Garmin Forerunner 945 LTE

The FR945 still holds up wonderfully today for runners. I used the 945 LTE edition on training runs to see if cellular connectivity would be useful. I was disappointed to find out that I could not make or receive calls or even send text messages but I can receive text messages. Also it requires an additional cellular plan subscription with a carrier that Garmin has an agreement with.

Safety features

The safety/tracking features, including Garmin LiveTrack, provide peace of mind. Incident detection will automatically alert your emergency contacts if you take a bad fall or stop moving during an outdoor activity, great for trail runners. Incident detection features have false positives if you do mobility/flexibility training like yoga – the watch thinks you’ve fallen hard if inverted too long!

Garmin LiveTrack allows me to share my real-time location, tracking information, and fitness metrics, including heart rate and speed, during a hike, bike ride, or any other activity with any family member or friend I want.

Running Power and Dynamics

The FR945 provides detailed metrics like running power, balance, vertical oscillation and ratio to monitor your form. After a recent 5K time trial, I broke down my splits, pacing, contact time, cadence, stride lengths and power output by lap to understand where I gained and lost time.

Training Readiness and Load Focus

I lean on the watch’s training readiness score to determine if my body has recovered adequately for tough speed work versusEasy days. It helps me balance training stress and rest to avoid burnout or injury leading up to big goal races. .

My current training load focus is on maintaining aerobic base through winter before shifting to a more intense anaerobic buildup for Spring marathon prep.

Crisp LCD Display

The bright LCD color display offers incredible contrast and visibility even under direct sunlight but it pales in comparison to the AMOLED displays of the Forerunner 965 and 265. I can easily customize data widgets and fields to show the exact workout stats I care about most for running. Five buttons make navigating menus a breeze.

Short Battery Life

The connectivity comes at the cost of reduced battery life. I only got about 7 hours in GPS mode while listening to music and using LTE LiveTrack, 12 hours of battery life in GPS mode while listening to music, and only 36 hours in smartwatch mode, making more like an Apple Watch. I needed to charge the 945 LTE every day compared to once a week with the Forerunner 965.

Ideal for: Runners who want connectivity for safety/communication and willing to sacrifice battery life.

Pros:

• Incident detection great for trail/ultra safety

Cons:

• Cannot make or receive calls or send texts directly on watch via cellular
• Reduced battery life even when LTE off
• Additional cellular plan required for connectivity
• Lacks the touchscreen experience of the newer Forerunner models
• Does not support the latest dual-band multi-satellite tracking for improved connectivity

Garmin Forerunner 265

With the FR265, I can finally leave my smartphone behind and still enjoy playlists and podcasts on long runs thanks to onboard music storage.

I enjoyed testing the Forerunner 265 with its beautiful 1.3-inch AMOLED display, multi-band GPS technology for faster satellite locks, training readiness feature, daily suggested workouts based on my fitness history, and onboard music storage for 500 songs. Being able to run phone-free while still listening to playlists and podcasts that are synched directly to the watch itself via the Garmin Connect IQ store for offline access was a gamechanger. Syncing offline Spotify playlists to the 265 Music itself is convoluted, but loading MP3 files directly through the computer is simple drag and drop.

With onboard storage for up to 500 songs, you can connect Bluetooth headphones to the Forerunner 265 Music for audio entertainment during workouts without dragging your phone along. Syncing offline Spotify playlists to the 265 Music itself is convoluted, but loading MP3 files directly through the computer is simple drag and drop.

The music playback audio quality is just OK – heavy on treble/bass, low on midrange. But once your heart’s pumping few runners care about fidelity! The audio playback quality proves perfectly adequate with decent clarity and volume through my Bluetooth headphones even while logging high intensity miles. This freedom to enjoy your own music or other audio seamlessly from the watch while still recording activity stats like pace, distance, heart rate marks a usage breakthrough compared to watches lacking such music integration.

Beyond the music functionality, the FR265 differs little from the well-proven FR255 or FR245 models regarding core running metrics like GPS accuracy or training analysis. Buyers receive the same excellent activity tracking expected from Garmin’s mid-range Forerunners but with the phone-free audio as an optional bonus for those desiring entertainment on long runs.

The AMOLED display comes at the cost of reduced battery life compared to the 255 music edition which uses the typical LCD display. I could only get about 6 hours of battery life if I used multi-band GPS and music.

Besides the AMOLED display, touchscreen, and training readiness feature, the watches are nearly identical in terms of features, menus, music support, and buttons. Both tracked distance and pacing very accurately across my test runs. However, I think the Garmin Forerunner 265’s extra features are worth the extra $100 over the 255.

Audio Playback

Through my connected Bluetooth headphones, the music playback quality from the watch is perfectly adequate with decent clarity and volume for listening while logging miles.

Syncing playlists is straightforward dragging and dropping tracks in the Garmin Connect IQ app. Close to 500 songs can be stored directly on the watch. Listening to my pace power songs helps me push through tough tempo workouts.

Accurate Tracking

In terms of core running stats like distance, pace and heart rate tracking, the 265 performs on par with the well-proven Forerunner 255. Both models use the same dual-band GPS and heart rate sensor technology after all.

Over dozens of test runs on winding trails and city streets, the pace and distance matched my phone’s GPS nearly perfectly. Heart rate trends also aligned closely with a chest strap monitor.

Display

The Garmin Forerunner 265 sports a vibrant and colorful 1.3 inch diameter high-resolution 260 x 260 pixel display for crisp visibility rivaling more expensive watches. Thanks to the AMOLED display providing excellent color contrast and adjustable brightness up to 1000 nits, I’ve had no issues reading my run stats in various lighting conditions from overcast trails to sunny roads. Three buttons framing the display make navigating through data fields intuitive as well.

Compared to the FR255 and FR245, the 265’s display size and resolution offers significant improvements in clarity and responsiveness when panning through metrics. Given most interactions with the watch face occur mid-workout, the FR265’s display gets the job done capably.

Battery Life
Battery life tanks quickly if listening to music throughout entire activities versus just GPS alone. Plan on bigger drawdowns.

Battery life is slightly reduced compared to the 255 given the onboard music, but I still get a solid 4-5 days in smartwatch mode with daily activity tracking enabled. For the freedom to run phone-free with my tunes, it’s a worthwhile trade-off.

Overall the Forerunner 265 Music hits the sweet spot if you want great tracking specs plus offline music playback.

Ideal For Runners who want phone-free music playback.

Pros

• Onboard music storage for 500 songs
• Accurate GPS tracking on par with Forerunner 255

Cons

• Reduced 6 day battery with music playing
• $100 more than FR255 music edition

Garmin Forerunner 255 – Great Mid-Range All-Around Watch

For runners looking for a great all-around running watch at a more affordable price point, you can’t go wrong with the Garmin Forerunner 255. This watch hits a sweet spot between advanced running features and keeping the price reasonable for amateurs.

It has all the essential metrics like GPS tracking, pace and distance, heart rate monitoring, and basic training analysis. The 255 may lack very niche metrics only competitive racers would use but provides 80% of the top features at half the price of fancy flagship watches.

Accurate Enough for Most Runners

During my testing runs wearing the 255, I found the GPS distance and pacing matched up almost perfectly with my 955 over the same routes. It uses the same dual-band GPS but locked onto a satellite a bit slower at the start of runs.

The optical heart rate sensor accurately captures average and max heart rate. On sprints and hill repeats, I see a bit more variance versus a chest strap but not enough to concern me for everyday training runs. For the price, its metrics are reliable for the majority of runners.

Helpful Training Features

Useful features like suggested workouts, training status, recovery time, VO2 max, and race predictor give you helpful insights into your fitness and progress. You can create customized intervals and download 5K-marathon training plans for guided workouts tailored to your ability and goals.

The watch is compatible with Garmin’s entire lineup of external sensors too like bike speed/cadence, extended battery packs, and foot pods for even more data. Pair it with Garmin’s Coach plan for further adaptive training.

Display
Garmin outfitted the Forerunner 255 running watch with a 1.3 inch 260×260 pixel high-resolution rectangular display that builds upon previous Forerunner models with improvements to brightness, sharpness, and contrast for excellent mid-run visibility. Using memory-in-pixel Transflective technology, the display appears clearly readable even in direct sunlight by reflecting ambient light from multiple angles. With a 70% larger screen area than its 245 predecessor but still slimmer casing, the watch face offers more prominent stats without bulk.

Weighing just 49 grams, the Forerunner 255 has a lightweight yet durable polymer case that’s comfortable for all-day wear. The excellent transflective display is easy to read in sunlight. Buttons and menus are responsive and snappy.

I appreciate the Chroma 2 color support and adjustable brightness up to 700 nits which make the data screens pop with vibrance. The 260×260 resolution provides sharpness for glancing multiple data fields like distance, pace, heart rate zones and mapping simultaneously. Garmin also claims increased scratch resistance and brightness gains over past displays which lend confidence to durability after years of use. While smartwatch-like AMOLED displays offer more wow factor, the FR255’s Transflective screen places utmost priority on crisp performance for training purposes.

Decent Battery Life

Battery life is rated for 14 hours in GPS mode or 6 days as a smartwatch – not best in class but decent enough for most runners. I typically got 4-5 days in smartwatch mode before needing to charge. You can extend it further by turning off advanced metrics. Overall a great everyday sports watch.

Ideal For: Beginner runners training for a first race all the way up to experienced runners chasing PRs without paying for all top-end features. Provides all the essential data at an affordable price.

Pros:

• Accurate tracking of pace, distance, heart rate
• Useful training features and analysis
• Great value and price for the performance
• Sleek and lightweight design for comfort

Cons:

• Lacks niche metrics for competitive racers
• Fiddly touch buttons can be hard to press
• Battery life slightly below top-end watches

Garmin Forerunner 245

As an affordable running watch with all the essential data tracking without blowing your budget, the FR245 continues to deliver. While aging, the 245 shares much of the same software features as newer watches thanks to firmware updates like Daily Workout Suggestions. The same metrics and technology have now been passed down to the new 255 at a higher price point.

Accurate Tracking

Over the past two years I’ve logged over 500 miles wearing the 245 without any major issues. It locks onto GPS quickly and has tracked my routes, distance and pacing stats closely against more expensive alternatives.

The wrist-based heart rate monitor accurately displays my trends and peaks. Optical heart rate struggles more on intense interval sessions versus steady runs. Worth pairing chest strap for hardcore training. I appreciate the Training Effect aerobic/anaerobic benefit scores after each activity. And features like suggested workouts and race predictor give helpful guidance.

Crisp Display

1.2” transflective display, 240 x 240 pixels resolution.
The easy-to-read Garmin Chroma display shows six key data fields by default like distance, pace, time, heart rate that sync up perfectly with my phone’s tracked stats. I can customize alternate data screens to show other running dynamics stats if I want a deeper dive.

Five physical buttons make navigating the menus a breeze to start runs, lap splits, and end workouts. Everything is snappy and responsive even mid-exercise.

Decent Battery Life

For a full-featured GPS running watch under $250, getting up to 7 days of battery life in smartwatch mode or 24 hours in GPS mode is perfectly respectable to me. I don’t mind plugging it in for an hour after 6 days while I shower. The 80/20 rule applies here – 80% of the features for a fraction of the premium price.

For new runners building mileage or anyone unwilling to splurge $500+ on a watch, the Forerunner 245 continues to hit a sweet spot.

Ideal For Beginner runners training for their first 5K or 10K who want accurate tracking without overspending.

Pros

• Proven accurate GPS pace/distance
• Easy-to-read display mid-run
• Helpful training metrics for newbies

Cons

• Physical buttons lack smoothness
• Fewer advanced dynamics than premium watches

Garmin Forerunner 245 vs 255

Comparing the FR245 and FR255 side by side, the 255 model provides some nice upgrades though nothing revolutionary. The display is slightly more crisp and responsive. The buttons click more positively. Little quality of life improvements.

Both watches tracked runs nearly identically in my testing. The 255 includes some additional training metrics like a race predictor and speed/pace pro. But for most runners the 245 will still provide accurate pacing/distance along with solid basics like VO2 max already.

Unless you specifically need the upgraded race predictor or training readiness score introduced on the 255, I’d suggest grabbing the 245 to save a solid $100 while getting 95% of the same great Garmin sports tracking experience otherwise.

Pros of 255 over 245:

• Slightly crisper, more responsive display
• More positive feeling button clicks
• Additional training metrics

Apple Watch Ultra – Gorgeous Smartwatch for iPhone Users

While the Apple Watch Ultra was designed with extreme athletes in mind, it’s also a stylish and capable running watch for iPhone users looking to track their fitness and receive smartphone notifications.

As an Apple Watch veteran, I love having a brighter, always-on display in a durable titanium case. The Ultra brings advanced sensors like blood oxygen, ECG, temperature, and compass packed into the signature polished Apple aesthetic. For iPhone owners seeking a blend of smartwatch connectivity and run tracking, the Ultra is tough to beat.

Accurate Enough for Casual Run Tracking

With its dual-frequency GPS, the Watch Ultra provides reasonably accurate distance and pace measurements that were very close to my Garmin during test runs. Its heart rate monitoring was also solid during steady runs though can get inconsistent at high intensity.

I appreciated the haptic feedback each mile to track my splits. The data screens cleanly display metrics like current/average/lap pace, heart rate, elapsed time, and distance. For most runners, the tracking will be reliable enough for logging daily miles. Hardcore racers may still want a dedicated GPS sports watch.

Seamless iPhone Connectivity

The Ultra really shines when paired with an iPhone. It brings your notifications, texts, emails, and calls right to your wrist. You can use Siri, Apple Maps, Apple Pay, Find My, and other great iOS features right from the watch.

Customizing the watch face and app layout is fun with different color combos and widgets to display. The sound quality for music and calls directly on the watch is impressive with good volume. If you live deep in the iPhone/Mac ecosystem, the Apple Watch integrates seamlessly as an accessory.

Excellent Build Quality

Weighing just 61g in a rugged titanium casing, the Ultra feels luxuriously high-end on the wrist. The brighter display has outstanding visibility and contrast even in direct sunlight.

Battery life

I was able to get 36-hours of battery in normal usage which is the longest life of any Apple Watch. However, the battery life couldn’t match the stated specs in GPS training mode – I averaged just 13 hours not the 15 hour claim when tracking runs. 45 hours in low power mode is legit though.

For adventures, the Action button can mark your route and Retrace guides you back. There’s a depth gauge, compass, and siren. While expensive at $799, Apple fans will appreciate having the most advanced Apple Watch yet.

Ideal For: iPhone users who want great smartwatch connectivity for everyday use and basic run tracking capabilities.

Pros:

• Stunning, durable build quality
• Crisp, highly visible display
• Useful iPhone integration and smart features
• Improved GPS and battery life over standard Apple Watch

Cons:

• Very expensive, especially for limited fitness features
• Advanced metrics limited compared to sports watches
• Occasional GPS inaccuracy during intense intervals
• ECG and blood oxygen sensors don’t function during workouts and races when actually desired/needed
• BYOD workouts available on Apple Fitness+ absent – limited training plans

Polar Grit X Pro

Since I love running the occasional ultramarathon, I have to tackle 35+ training miles across rocky technical trails. One of the few running watches that can keep up is the Polar Grit X Pro thanks to its robust battery life and ruggedized casing. The Grit X Pro stands out from all the other watches with its rugged, military-spec design built for ultrarunners tackling extreme distances. The titanium casing feels nearly indestructible (and heavy). Over the course of 35+ training miles and a 50K race wearing the watch, I gained immense respect for its durability.

As a mid-pack but aspiring ultrarunner grinding out long weekend trail runs, I loved the FuelWise assistant. It reminds you take on calories and hydrate based on distance covered and intensity. No more bonking!

I also appreciated the extended 40 hour battery life even in constant GPS mode – pretty incredible for when you know you’ll be running remote routes all day long. For ultrarunners chasing 100 milers, the Grit X Pro seems perfectly purpose-built. Road runners can likely get by with something lighter and more affordable however.

Rugged Titanium Design

Weighing 63g in a military standard titanium casing, the Grit X Pro remains scuff and ding free even after hundreds of miles and unavoidable spills on jagged mountain trails. The durable materials provide peace of mind to just focus on the miles rather than babying the watch.

Serious Battery Life

With up to 40 hours of constant GPS tracking in my testing, I can rely on the Grit X Pro to last multiple days recording nonstop data on 100+ mile ultra races fully off the grid.

No more worrying about battery anxiety if I undercharged! I truly appreciate that Polar optimized this beast for extreme distances.

Suggested workouts

Polar’s suggested workouts weren’t actually adaptive in my testing – same “60 minute Easy Run” every day despite load focus set to speed. Garmin better algorithms.

Trail running

Trail running mode with turn-by-turn breadcrumbs worked decently but lacks topographical details of Garmin’s trail mapping.

Hill Splitter

The Hill Splitter feature analyzing every ascent and descent also caters perfectly for relentless hilly suffer-fests. Hill Splitter app provides awesome ultra detailed elevation graphs but drains battery much faster than advertised 40 hours while enabled. It’s power hungry!

Crisp Display

The always-on 1.2” display delivers great contrast and visibility in all conditions. I customized data screens to show distance, ascent/descent, time, heart rate, intensity pacing zones, and muscle load % for fueling. Swapping through metrics mid-run keeps me focused during grueling miles in the pain cave.

For ultrarunners and trail Fiends always gnawing out high mileage far from aid, the Grit X Pro provides the battery life, durability and tracking I demand to push boundaries safely. It remains overbuilt for a casual pavement pounder however.

Ideal for: Aspiring ultrarunners and rugged trail runners tackling serious distance.

Pros:

• Rugged, overbuilt quality stands up to extreme distances
• Fuel and hydration reminders useful on long remote routes
• Nearly unmatched battery life in GPS mode

Cons:

• Very heavy watch – feels overbuilt for most runners
• Expensive overkill for new runners just logging base miles
• No ability to download offline maps for navigation unlike leading Garmins
• Lacks open water metrics like swim heart rate found on Vantage watches
• Minimal smart features like contactless payments on this rugged solve-for model

Coros Pace 2 – Feature-Packed Watch at an Amazing Price

If you’re on a tight budget but still want an impressive running watch with great GPS accuracy, the Coros Pace 2 delivers everything a runner needs at an affordable price of under $200. Somehow they’ve packed advanced features like wrist-based heart rate, onboard GPS, long battery life, and run analytics into an affordable watch.

While the plastic casing feels a bit cheap, the watch hides its bargain price once you see everything it can do. For new runners looking for an entry-level sports watch or anyone seeking great value, the Pace 2 hits a sweet spot.

Accurate GPS with Easy Data Screens

During my test runs, I found that the Pace 2’s GPS distance and pace tracking matched up perfectly with my Garmin. It latched onto satellites quickly and tracked my route accurately through winding trails.

The always-on display automatically switches between data fields showing your current pace, distance, time, heart rate and more. Swiping through screens is intuitive. I love the easy-to-understand color-coded training zones for pacing and heart rate.

Barometer readings
Barometer readings show wider variance against results from Garmin and Apple watches for current elevation data when trail running.
Use Training Load to Track Fitness Gains

While the Pace 2 lacks very advanced metrics, it still provides useful tracking like your cumulative training load for understanding if you are under or overtraining, training status to tell you if your fitness is improving or declining, recovery countdown timer that tells you when you are fully recovered, and race time predictor for 5K to a marathon based on you current fitness level. It’s enough data for amateurs to track their progress and performance improvements.

The watch can recommend daily workouts based on your current training load. There are also free 5K, 10K and half marathon training plans you can download for coaching guidance. It covers the basics well for new runners.

Amazing Battery Life

Despite its low cost, the Pace 2 delivers an incredible 30 hours of GPS runtime before needing a recharge along with 20 days of battery life in smartwatch mode that includes sleep monitoring, weekly training, and recovery tracking. For most runners, you could go weeks between charges even logging 2-hour long runs on weekends. The battery life really blew me away.

Easy to Use

The two responsive buttons on the right hand side including the Digital Dial that allows me to easily navigate the different menu items with just one finger, making it easy to look at different data screens mid-run. For the price, Coros nailed the comfort and usability.

Lightest Running Watch on the Market
Weighing just 29 grams, the watch is so lightweight that it practically disappears on my wrist. Unlike the bigger and bulkier Garmin Forerunner and Fenix watches that feel like a brick on your wrist, you will not notice that this watch is even there while you are running.

Ideal For: Beginner runners training for their first race or anyone who wants a lightweight watch with great tracking without blowing their budget.

Pros:

• Packed with features at an affordable price (under $200)
• Accurate GPS with easy-to-use data screens
• Great training load metrics to track progress
• Incredible battery life up to 30 hours GPS mode
• Lightest running watch on the market

Cons:

• Very basic plastic casing that feels cheap
• Heart rate accuracy declines at high intensities
• App and ecosystem not as advanced as Garmin/Apple
• No touchscreen or gesture control available on higher end Coros models
• Very basic thrill/adventure safety features compared to premium options
• Can’t provide imagery for golf swings analysis offered by competition

The Future of Running Watches

Running watches have already evolved tremendously over just the past few years as GPS accuracy, sensors, battery efficiency, and processing power rapidly improve. These are several exciting innovations soon to arrive in the world of running watches:

• EVEN LONGER BATTERY LIFE – New solar charging and battery technology should allow multi-day GPS tracking soon even on full-featured watches. Less time plugged into the wall outlet means more time for actual training.

• ADVANCED RUNNING DYNAMICS – More granular tracking of biomechanics like ground contact time, stride length, pronation/suppination, and form will provide unprecedented insights into running efficiency.

• BETTER TOUCHSCREENS – Crisp, colorful AMOLED touchscreen displays are being found on more running watches and they are quickly improving with better responsiveness when wet/gloved and extended battery savings. Makes navigating watch features so much easier.

• ENHANCED ONBOARD MAPPING – Improved onboard topographical maps with better navigation will help runners explore new routes and trails. Safety features will continue evolving too.

• MORE INTEGRATED COACHING – Adaptive training plans, workout recommendations, pacing guidance, and post-run feedback will provide training tips directly on your watch during activities.