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The Ultimate Guide to the Best Watches for Running on Amazon in 2024
If you’re an avid runner, you know how crucial it is to track your progress, monitor your performance, and stay motivated. One of the best ways to accomplish all these goals is by investing in a high-quality running watch. In 2024, a plethora of options are available on Amazon, but how do you choose the best one for your needs? In this article, we’ve rounded up the best watches for running, ensuring that whether you are a novice or a seasoned marathoner, you’ll find the perfect companion for your next run.
| # | Preview | Product | Rating | Price | |
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Garmin Forerunner 55, GPS Running Watch with Daily Suggested Workouts, Up to 2 weeks of Battery... | $168.99 | Buy on Amazon | |
| 2 |
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COROS PACE 2 Sport Watch GPS Heart Rate Monitor, 20 Days Long Battery Life, Barometer, Lightweight,... | $179.00 | Buy on Amazon | |
| 3 |
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Garmin Forerunner® 255, GPS Running Smartwatch, Advanced Insights, Long-Lasting Battery, Slate Gray | $322.01 | Buy on Amazon | |
| 4 |
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Garmin Forerunner 55 GPS Running Smartwatch, Black | $169.99 | Buy on Amazon | |
| 5 |
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Garmin Forerunner 265 Running Smartwatch, Colorful AMOLED Display, Training Metrics and Recovery... | $349.99 | Buy on Amazon | |
| 6 |
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COROS PACE 3 Sport Watch GPS, Lightweight and Comfort, 17 Days Battery Life, Dual-Frequency GPS,... | $229.00 | Buy on Amazon | |
| 7 |
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Garmin 010-01689-00 Forerunner 35; Easy-to-Use GPS Running Watch, Black | $189.99 | Buy on Amazon | |
| 8 |
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Fitness Tracker Watch with Heart Rate Monitor, Large Screen Activity Tracker with Pedometer, Sleep... | $19.99 | Buy on Amazon | |
| 9 |
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Garmin vívoactive 3 GPS Smartwatch - Black & Gunmetal (Renewed) | $129.99 | Buy on Amazon | |
| 10 |
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Garmin Forerunner 165, Running Smartwatch, Colorful AMOLED Display, Training Metrics and Recovery... | $249.99 | Buy on Amazon |
Top 10 Best Watches for Running in 2024
1. Garmin Forerunner 245
The Garmin Forerunner 245 is often hailed as one of the best watches for running due to its comprehensive features tailored for serious runners. This GPS-enabled watch provides advanced running dynamics, VO2 max estimation, and training load metrics, helping you understand how your workouts are impacting your fitness.
With a long battery life of up to 7 days in smartwatch mode and 24 hours in GPS mode, it’s perfect for long-distance runners. The watch also allows for music storage, making it easy to take your favorite tunes on the go without a bulky phone. Its lightweight design and always-on display make it comfortable for all-day wear.
Overall, the Garmin Forerunner 245 combines functionality with convenience, making it one of the best watches for running in 2024.
- GPS running smartwatch with music advanced training features, Lens Material:Corning Gorilla Glass 3, Bezel Material: fiber-reinforced polymer, Strap material:silicone
- Battery life: up to 7 days in smartwatch mode and 6 hours in GPS mode with music
- Evaluates your current training status to indicate if you’re undertraining or overdoing it; Offers additional performance monitoring features
- Get free adaptive training plans from Garmin coach, or create your own custom workouts on our Garmin connect online fitness community
- Provides advanced running dynamics, including ground contact time balance, stride length, vertical ratio and more (When used with Running Dynamics Pod or HRM Run or HRM Tri monitors (sold separately))
2. Apple Watch Series 8
Apple’s latest smartwatch—Series 8—has proven to be not just a stylish accessory but also an capable fitness tracker. The watch features a robust range of health monitoring tools including heart rate tracking, ECG, and an advanced sleep tracker.
For runners, the GPS accuracy is exceptional, and coupled with the Workout app, the Apple Watch Series 8 can track a variety of running workouts. The compelling feature is its integration with the Apple ecosystem, allowing you to receive notifications and control your music effortlessly while on the run. With an always-on display and a battery life extending to 18 hours, it’s an excellent daily companion.
Given the comprehensive health features and seamless connectivity, the Apple Watch Series 8 stands out as one of the best watches for running on Amazon in 2024.
![Apple Watch Series 8 [GPS, 45mm] - Midnight Aluminum Case with Midnight Sport Band, M/L (Renewed)](https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/41ge1dzSSeL.jpg)
- WHY APPLE WATCH SERIES 8 - Your essential companion for a healthy life is now even more powerful. Advanced sensors provide insights to help you better understand your health. New safety features can get you help when you need it. The bright, Always-On Retina display is easy to read, even when your wrist is down.
- EASILY CUSTOMIZABLE - Available in a range of sizes and materials, with dozens of bands to choose from and watch faces with complications tailored to whatever you’re into.
- INNOVATIVE SAFETY FEATURES - Crash Detection and Fall Detection can automatically connect you with emergency services in the event of a severe car crash or a hard fall. And Emergency SOS provides urgent assistance with the press of a button.
- ADVANCED HEALTH FEATURES - Temperature sensing is a breakthrough feature that provides deep insights into women’s health. Keep an eye on your blood oxygen. Take an ECG anytime. Get notifications if you have an irregular rhythm. And see how much time you spent in REM, Core, or Deep sleep with Sleep Stages.
- SIMPLY COMPATIBLE - It works seamlessly with your Apple devices and services. Unlock your Mac automatically. Find your devices with a tap. Pay and send money with Apple Pay. Apple Watch requires an iPhone 8 or later with the latest iOS version.
3. Polar Vantage V2
The Polar Vantage V2 is designed for athletes looking for a top-notch performance watch. It offers advanced training features such as recovery and training load insights, which are critical for building endurance and avoiding injuries.
What sets this watch apart is its precision in measuring running power and pacing strategies, which are especially beneficial for serious runners. With a battery life of up to 40 hours in GPS mode, you can easily use it for ultra-distance events. Furthermore, it supports various sports modes, making it versatile for all kinds of athletic pursuits.
If you’re a dedicated runner seeking a tool to elevate your performance, the Polar Vantage V2 deserves a spot on your wrist.
- The sharpest AMOLED touchscreen display. A bright, large display for seeing all your data and metrics—with customizable dashboards and widgets for quick-access to the information that matters the most.
- Sport Watch with dual-frequency GPS and detailed maps. See where you are and where you're going with downloadable maps with detailed contouring for the ultimate topographic experience.
- The most comprehensive suite of training and recovery tools – more than just a running watch. With over 150 sports available you get everything you need to boost your performance.
- Extended battery life that lasts for days. Up to 140 hours of training time and up to 8 days of regular use on a single charge. The battery of this smart watch has been designed to provide a longer duration of use.
4. Fitbit Versa 4
The Fitbit Versa 4 combines smartwatch functionalities with fitness tracking features at a reasonable price. This watch focuses on a variety of health metrics, including sleep, heart rate, and daily activity tracking, which are vital for any fitness enthusiast or runner.
It offers a battery life of up to 6 days, allowing you to monitor your daily activity without frequent charging. Additionally, its on-screen workouts and built-in GPS make it an ideal choice for runners who prefer a more budget-friendly yet functional option. The customizable clock faces are a nice touch, catering to personal style.
Overall, the Fitbit Versa 4 is an excellent candidate for the best watches for running, especially for those exploring fitness tracking without breaking the bank.
- Get inspired and stay accountable with Versa 4 + Premium - learn when to work out or recover, see real-time stats during exercise and find new ways to keep your routine fresh and fun
- Built for better fitness results: Daily Readiness Score(1), built-in GPS and workout intensity map, Active Zone Minutes, all-day activity tracking and 24/7 heart rate, 40+ exercise modes and automatic exercise tracking, water resistant to 50 meters
- Tools to measure and improve sleep quality: personalized Sleep Profile(1), daily sleep stages & Sleep Score, smart wake alarm and do not disturb mode
- Maintain a healthy body and mind: daily Stress Management Score, reflection logging, SpO2(2), health metrics dashboard(3), guided breathing sessions, menstrual health tracking and mindfulness content
- Designed for fitness & beyond: on-wrist Bluetooth calls, texts and phone notifications(4), customizable clock faces, Fitbit Pay(5), Amazon Alexa built-in(6), Google Wallet & Maps (Google Maps Android only, coming Spring 2023 to iOS), 6+ day battery(7)
5. Suunto 9 Baro
The Suunto 9 Baro is built for rugged terrains, designed for serious outdoor athletes and runners. One of its standout features is the intelligent battery mode that allows you to extend the battery life up to 120 hours while maintaining GPS accuracy, making it perfect for ultra-runs and trail running events.
The watch also offers various sport modes, altitude tracking, and weather storm alerts, which are essential for adventure runners. Its robust build ensures durability in challenging conditions, and the touchscreen interface is user-friendly for easy navigation.
If your runs take you off the beaten path, the Suunto 9 Baro is geared to take you there.
- Suunto 9 Baro: This durable multisport GPS watch is designed for athletes who demand the best; Featuring over 80 sports modes, a barometer for accurate altitude info, and wrist heart rate monitor
- Built To Last: Made for training, racing and extreme adventures, this GPS watch delivers up to 120 hours of continuous exercise tracking; Water resistant to 100 meters; Great for running, hiking, cycling and more
- Get Connected: Connect to your favorite sports apps and services from the Suunto app to get more from your watch; Share with your sports communities and access specific training analysis and guidance
- Adventure Starts Here: Combining Scandinavian design with ultra durable materials, our watches track your sports, daily activity, and sleep to help you keep life, training and recovery in balance
- Authentic Heritage: Founded in 1936, Suunto brings over 80 years of high-quality heritage craftsmanship, relentless accuracy, and pioneering innovation to our watches, compasses, and dive products. Proudly made with 100% renewable energy
6. Coros Pace 2
The Coros Pace 2 is a stellar option for budget-conscious runners who don’t want to compromise on features. With an extremely lightweight design, it becomes barely noticeable during your runs. It includes advanced running metrics, a built-in workout planner, and GPS functionality.
The battery life is another highlight, lasting up to 30 hours in GPS mode. The Pace 2 also packs a feature called the “Recovery Advisor” that helps you understand when it’s time to rest based on your workout intensity. If you’re a runner looking for a feature-rich watch without breaking the bank, the Coros Pace 2 is an excellent pick.
- The lightest GPS watch on the market: With a weight of just 29g with the new COROS Nylon band, PACE 2 is the lightest GPS watch on the market. It also has a long battery life of up to 20 days of regular use and 30 hours in full GPS mode.
- Customizable training modes: PACE 2 offers interval, structured, triathlon, and strength training modes. Training programs and plans created by COROS athletes and coaches are available for free on COROS.com, making it easy to customize your training to meet your needs.
- Advanced training features: PACE 2 is the ultimate training partner, helping you plan your training, provide instant feedback, and record your effort during your workouts. It also provides a comprehensive overview of your performance from the past 42 days, so you can track your progress and achieve your goals.
- Multi-sport support: With modes for running, cycling, swimming, cardio, strength, and water sports, PACE 2 is perfect for any activity. Ongoing support and updates ensure that your watch is always up-to-date.
- Comprehensive daily tracking: PACE 2 includes an optical heart rate monitor, barometric altimeter, accelerometer, compass, gyroscope, and thermometer for 24/7 heart rate monitoring, sleep tracking, step tracking, and calorie tracking. Stay on top of your health and fitness goals with ease.
7. Amazfit T-Rex Pro
Amazfit T-Rex Pro combines affordability with impressive features. A rugged design means it’s ready to tackle any outdoor adventure, including trail running. With over 100 sports modes, it caters to all types of runners while providing sound metrics on performance.
The watch comes equipped with a built-in GPS, heart rate monitor, and health tracking features such as SPO2 monitoring. The 18-day battery life in standard use makes it a reliable partner for longer runs without the stress of battery depletion. Its durable build, including military-grade toughness, prepares you for a variety of environments and weather conditions.
This watch finds its place as one of the best watches for running, especially for those who spend time outdoors looking for an affordable yet feature-rich option.
- RUGGED DURABILITY: Military-grade certified for rugged and demanding environments, this smartwatch is built to resist high heat, humidity and extreme cold.
- LONG 18-DAY BATTERY: Up to 18 days on a single charge for more running, hiking, walking, and being active without worrying about battery life.
- CUSTOMIZABLE TOUCHSCREEN: Ultra durable glass AMOLED face with 34 alternative watch face choices.
- HEART-RATE and VO2 MONITORING: Find your cardio zone with heart-rate monitoring and blood-oxygen saturation measurement.
- FITNESS APP DATA SHARING: Easily connect with Strava, Adidas Running, Apple Health, Google Fit, Relive, Komoot to record and share health, steps and fitness data.
8. Samsung Galaxy Watch 5
The Samsung Galaxy Watch 5 offers a perfect blend of smartwatch capabilities and fitness tracking. With its sleek design, advanced health sensors, and accurate GPS tracking, it appeals to those who are more style-conscious without compromising on features critical for runners.
The battery life can last up to 40 hours, and it features extensive health metrics like VO2 max, heart rate variability, and sleep tracking. With built-in workouts and easy integration with Samsung Health, it’s ideal for those already in the Samsung ecosystem.
For those embracing fitness with a modern smartwatch, the Galaxy Watch 5 integrates seamlessly into both fitness and daily life, making it a solid contender among the best watches for running in 2024.
- ADVANCED SLEEP COACHING: Manage your overall sleep quality with an advanced sleep tracker that detects and analyzes sleep stages while you rest; Plus, Advanced Sleep Coaching helps you develop better sleep habits by analyzing your sleep patterns.Supported Application:Fitness Tracker,Blood Pressure Monitor,Multisport Tracker,Time Display,GPS. Connectivity technology:Bluetooth. Wireless comm standard:Bluetooth,802_11_AGNAC
- BODY COMPOSITION ANALYSIS (BIA): Galaxy Watch5 provides body composition data right on your wrist; On your own schedule, you can now get readings on body fat, skeletal muscle, body water, basal metabolic rate and Body Mass Index (BMI)
- IMPROVED SENSOR ACCURACY: Stay up to date on your wellness; Get an accurate heart rate thanks to an improved, curved Samsung BioActive Sensor that gets closer to your skin
- AUTO WORKOUT TRACKING: Make the most of every adventure with Auto Workout Tracking - from running to rowing to swimming - automatically in just minutes, and manually tracking more than 90 exercises, including complex activities like HIIT
- IMPROVED BATTERY & GALAXY CONNECTED EXPERIENCE: Meet the watch that goes as long as you do; Galaxy Watch5’s improved battery keeps up with your busiest day Do more with synced Galaxy devices that work in perfect harmony
9. Timex Ironman R300 GPS
For those who prefer a no-fuss approach, the Timex Ironman R300 GPS offers a straightforward and functional design tailored for runners. This watch features precise GPS tracking and a strong focus on time, distance, and pace metrics, making it a go-to for casual users.
The battery life is commendable, lasting over 25 hours in GPS mode, allowing for long runs without interruptions. It’s also compatible with your favorite music apps, letting you stay motivated through your workouts. If you are a newbie to running and want an uncomplicated watch that delivers essential features, the Timex Ironman R300 GPS is the right choice.
- Aerospace grade patented material engineered for your specific device wet application
- IPG’s unique ingredients provide self-healing for your existing scratches
- Free lifetime replacement warranty for the life of your TIMEX Ironman R300 GPS Smartwatch
- Virtually invisible, protects your display from unwanted scratches and repels dust, while reducing signs of daily wear
- Anti Fingerprint. Not Interfere with Touch screen Technology
10. Mobvoi TicWatch Pro 3 GPS
The Mobvoi TicWatch Pro 3 GPS is a unique hybrid smartwatch that utilizes both AMOLED and FSTN displays, offering extended battery life alongside full smartwatch functionalities. This watch emphasizes fitness tracking and daily functionality combined with a robust battery life of up to 72 hours.
With built-in GPS and comprehensive fitness tracking capabilities, including heart rate and stress monitor, the TicWatch Pro 3 ensures you stay in peak fitness. It’s also compatible with Google Assistant, allowing you hands-free control while on the go. This makes it a fantastic option for those who lead an active lifestyle and prefer a multi-functional device.
Overall, the Mobvoi TicWatch Pro 3 GPS is one of the best watches for running today due to its innovative features and impressive performance.
- 【Long Battery Life】Dual layers display 2.0 technology keeps Ticwatch Pro 3 Ultra GPS smartwatch going up to 72 hours in Smart Mode and 45 days in Essential mode. The new customizable backlight offers you better visual enjoyment, makes the screen comfortable to read under any conditions, especially in the dark.
- 【Updated Chipset, Better Experience】Wear OS by Google Ticwatch Pro 3 Ultra GPS smartwatch with the Qualcomm Snapdragon Wear 4100 Platform and Mobvoi Dual Processor System. Deliver faster and smoother performance and connectivity. 1G RAM and 8G ROM Memory. NFC payment supports Google Pay.
- 【Advanced Health and Fitness Monitoring】TicWatch Pro 3 Ultra GPS keeps track of your real-time fitness and health data. IP68 waterproof and pool swimming suitable, upgraded 100+ professional sports modes, with built-in GPS, speaker and microphone, barometer and sleep tracking, blood Oxygen Saturation, stress Monitoring and 24-hour heart rate monitoring (empowered by a more accurate sensor ). New functions are added including IHB/AFib Detection and Fatigue Assessment etc.
- 【New Fatigue Assessment】Assess mental fatigue and track your daily energy levels. Note: This feature is not intended to diagnose or treat any medical condition or for any other medical purpose.
- 【Upgraded Premium Design, Flagship Model】Stylish and functional design with knurled stainless-steel bezel, 1.4-inch AMOLED Screen (454*454 high-resolution) with auto-adjustable brightness, Corning Gorilla Anti-fingerprint Cover Glass. Dual Display with Customized Colorful Backlight. US Military Standard 810G certified durability. You can customize the information shown on the watchfaces, such as weather/heart rate/steps, and choose the pattern style you like.
Buying Guide for Best Watches for Running
When it comes to selecting the best watches for running, there are several factors to consider to ensure you’re making the right choice. Below are the key aspects to look for when shopping for a running watch, especially on Amazon:
1. GPS Accuracy
GPS accuracy is fundamentally important for tracking your distance, pace, and route efficiently. Look for watches that have a reputation for precise GPS functions. Most high-quality running watches come with built-in GPS, which enhances tracking accuracy.
2. Battery Life
Battery life is crucial, particularly if you are training for long-distance events or prefer extended running sessions. Always check how long the battery lasts in GPS mode and consider models that offer power-saving modes to extend usage.
3. Heart Rate Monitoring
Monitoring heart rate during exercise provides insights into your fitness levels and helps manage your workout intensity. Many running watches come with optical heart rate sensors that provide real-time tracking to optimize your performance.
4. Weight & Comfort
A comfortable, lightweight design is vital, especially during long runs. Heavier watches can cause discomfort and impede your performance. Opt for models that balance robustness and weight for the most enjoyable experience.
5. Training Features
Advanced features such as training load tracking, recovery metrics, and tailored workout suggestions can be invaluable for improving performance. Consider these elements if you’re serious about training and want to push your limits.
6. Durability
Your watch should be made from high-quality materials that can withstand impacts and weather conditions. Look for ruggedness in the design and check whether the model has any water resistance rating if you run in diverse environments.
7. Price
Running watches come at various price points. While it is tempting to go for cheaper options, it’s worth investing in a well-reviewed watch that meets your needs. Look for devices that provide the best value for features you will actually use.
8. Smart Features
Many running watches now come with smartwatch capabilities such as notifications, music control, and compatibility with fitness apps, which can enhance your running experience. Make sure to choose features you will benefit from while running or during daily usage.
Conclusion
Choosing the best watch for running is a crucial decision that can significantly impact your training and performance. Each of the ten options highlighted in this article brings unique features and capabilities that cater to different running styles and preferences. Whether you prioritize GPS accuracy, heart rate monitoring, smart features, or battery life, there is a perfect running watch for you on Amazon.
The key is to consider your running goals, personal preferences, and the essential features that you will actually use. With the right watch on your wrist, running can transform from a simple exercise into a highly engaged and enjoyable experience.
Last update on 2024-09-20 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API | votechriscarrillo.com is a participant in the Amazon Associate program and will earn from qualifying purchases.