Best Running Watches 2025: Complete GPS Watch Buyer's Guide
Expert reviews of Garmin, COROS, Polar, Suunto & Apple Watch for runners of all levels
The running watch market in 2025 offers incredible options from budget-friendly GPS trackers to premium multisport computers. After testing dozens of watches across thousands of miles, we've identified the best options for every type of runner.
Quick Comparison: Top Running Watches 2025
| Watch | Best For | Battery (GPS) | Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| Garmin Forerunner 965 | Best Overall | 31 hours | $599 |
| Garmin Forerunner 265 | Best Mid-Range | 20 hours | $449 |
| COROS PACE 3 | Best Value | 38 hours | $229 |
| Garmin Forerunner 55 | Best Beginner | 20 hours | $199 |
| COROS APEX 2 Pro | Best for Ultras | 75 hours | $499 |
| Polar Vantage V3 | Best Training Load | 53 hours | $599 |
| Apple Watch Ultra 2 | Best Smartwatch | 17 hours | $799 |
| Suunto Race | Best Display | 40 hours | $449 |
| Garmin Enduro 3 | Best Ultramarathon | 320 hours | $899 |
| Polar Pacer Pro | Best Budget Multi | 35 hours | $299 |
Best Overall: Garmin Forerunner 965
Editor's Choice - The complete package for serious runners
The Forerunner 965 represents the pinnacle of running watch technology. Its stunning 1.4" AMOLED display is bright, crisp, and readable in any conditions. The watch includes full topographic maps, advanced training metrics, and the best GPS accuracy in our testing.
Key Features: AMOLED touchscreen, full maps with navigation, Training Readiness score, HRV Status, Race Predictor, Running Power (wrist-based), Music storage (8GB), Garmin Pay.
Pros: Best-in-class display, comprehensive training metrics, excellent GPS, long battery life, full ecosystem integration.
Cons: Premium price, may be overkill for casual runners, large size.
Best Mid-Range: Garmin Forerunner 265
The Forerunner 265 brings AMOLED display technology to a more accessible price point. It offers 95% of the 965's running features at $150 less, making it the sweet spot for most serious runners.
Key Features: 1.3" AMOLED display, Training Readiness, Morning Report, HRV Status, Running Dynamics (with compatible accessory), Music storage.
Pros: Excellent value, beautiful display, comprehensive metrics, lighter than 965.
Cons: No maps, shorter battery than competitors, no touchscreen bezel.
Best Value: COROS PACE 3
Best Bang for Your Buck
The COROS PACE 3 delivers exceptional value with 38-hour GPS battery life, accurate dual-frequency GPS, and comprehensive training features at just $229. It's become the go-to recommendation for runners who prioritize performance over smartwatch features.
Key Features: Dual-frequency GPS, 38-hour battery, Training Load, Running Power, Nylon or silicone band options, 30g weight.
Pros: Incredible battery life, lightweight, accurate GPS, great training metrics, excellent price.
Cons: Basic display, limited smart features, smaller third-party app ecosystem.
Best for Beginners: Garmin Forerunner 55
The Forerunner 55 is perfect for runners starting their journey. It provides essential GPS tracking, heart rate monitoring, and Garmin Coach training plans without overwhelming complexity. The intuitive interface makes it easy to start running immediately.
Key Features: GPS tracking, wrist HR, Garmin Coach plans, PacePro pacing, suggested workouts, sleep tracking.
Pros: Simple interface, excellent Garmin Coach integration, reliable GPS, affordable.
Cons: No music, basic display, limited advanced metrics.
Best for Ultramarathons: COROS APEX 2 Pro
With 75 hours of GPS battery life, the APEX 2 Pro can handle any ultra distance without needing a charge. Full offline maps, accurate navigation, and robust build quality make it ideal for long days in the mountains.
Key Features: 75-hour GPS battery, offline maps, dual-frequency GPS, barometric altimeter, navigation, 53g weight.
Pros: Exceptional battery, accurate GPS and elevation, lightweight for features, full maps.
Cons: Small display, limited music storage, fewer smart features than Garmin.
Best for Training Load: Polar Vantage V3
Polar pioneered heart rate training, and the Vantage V3 continues that legacy with the most advanced recovery and training load analytics available. The new AMOLED display and dual-frequency GPS address previous weaknesses.
Key Features: Training Load Pro, Recovery Pro, Nightly Recharge, Running Power, AMOLED display, ECG, skin temperature.
Pros: Best-in-class training/recovery metrics, excellent HR accuracy, comprehensive sleep analysis.
Cons: Less intuitive interface, smaller ecosystem, expensive.
Best Smartwatch: Apple Watch Ultra 2
For iPhone users wanting the best of both worlds, the Apple Watch Ultra 2 combines premium smartwatch features with serious running capabilities. The new precision dual-frequency GPS rivals dedicated running watches.
Key Features: 49mm titanium case, precision GPS, depth gauge, 86dB siren, Action Button, cellular option, full iOS integration.
Pros: Best smartwatch features, excellent build quality, great third-party app support (WorkOutDoors, etc.).
Cons: Shortest battery life, requires iPhone, expensive, limited native running metrics.
Best Display: Suunto Race
The Suunto Race features a stunning 1.43" AMOLED display with incredible brightness and clarity. Finnish design meets modern technology with offline maps, Training Load monitoring, and impressive 40-hour GPS battery.
Key Features: 1.43" AMOLED (466x466), offline maps, dual-frequency GPS, Training Load, HRV, titanium bezel option.
Pros: Best display in class, beautiful design, good battery, full maps.
Cons: Smaller ecosystem, fewer third-party apps, Suunto app less polished than Garmin Connect.
Best Extreme Battery: Garmin Enduro 3
When battery life is everything, the Enduro 3 delivers an astounding 320 hours of GPS tracking with solar charging. Multi-day ultras, thru-hikes, and expedition adventures are well within reach without a charger.
Key Features: 320hr GPS (solar), AMOLED display, full maps, flashlight, solar charging, UltraTrac mode.
Pros: Unmatched battery life, solar charging works, full Garmin features, rugged build.
Cons: Very expensive, large and heavy, overkill for most runners.
Best Budget Multisport: Polar Pacer Pro
At $299, the Polar Pacer Pro offers exceptional training features including Running Power, Training Load Pro, and Recovery Pro. Its lightweight 41g design makes it comfortable for daily wear and racing.
Key Features: Running Power (wrist), Training Load Pro, Recovery Pro, 35hr GPS, barometer, 41g weight.
Pros: Excellent training metrics, lightweight, good battery, accurate HR.
Cons: No maps, basic display, limited smart features.
Running Watch Buying Guide
GPS Accuracy
Dual-frequency GPS (found in premium watches) provides better accuracy in challenging environments like urban canyons and dense forests. For open road running, standard GPS is sufficient.
Heart Rate Monitoring
Wrist-based optical HR works well for steady running but can lag during intervals. For maximum accuracy in speed work, consider pairing with a chest strap. Our Heart Rate Zone Calculator helps you set accurate zones.
Battery Life Considerations
Consider your longest runs. Marathon runners need 5+ hours; ultra runners may need 20-100+ hours. Remember that music, maps, and high GPS accuracy modes drain battery faster.
Training Features to Look For
- Training Load: Tracks cumulative stress to prevent overtraining
- Recovery Time: Recommends rest between hard efforts
- Running Power: Measures effort independent of pace and terrain
- Race Predictor: Estimates finish times based on fitness
- Training Plans: Structured workouts for your goals
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best running watch for beginners?
The Garmin Forerunner 55 ($199) is ideal for beginners. It offers GPS tracking, heart rate monitoring, and built-in training plans without overwhelming features. The COROS PACE 3 ($229) is another excellent option with superior battery life.
Is GPS or wrist heart rate more accurate?
GPS accuracy is excellent on modern watches (within 1-2%). Wrist HR is accurate for steady running but lags during intervals. For speed work accuracy, pair with a chest strap like the Polar H10.
How long do running watch batteries last?
Battery varies greatly: Forerunner 265 (20hr GPS), COROS PACE 3 (38hr), Enduro 3 (320hr). Smartwatch mode typically lasts 5-14 days. Choose based on your longest training sessions.
Do I need maps on my running watch?
Maps benefit trail runners and explorers. The Garmin 965, COROS APEX 2 Pro, and Suunto Race include full color maps. Road runners in familiar areas can save money with non-mapping models.
Garmin vs COROS - which brand is better?
Garmin offers a more polished ecosystem, better smart features, and superior third-party app support. COROS provides exceptional battery life and value. For pure running focus, COROS excels; for lifestyle integration, Garmin wins.