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10 Best Garmin Watch For Runners 2025 in the United States

#1

Winner

9.9 score

Garmin Forerunner 55, GPS Running Watch with Daily Suggested Workouts, Up to 2 weeks of Battery Life, Black - 010-02562-00

The Garmin Forerunner 55 is a solid choice for runners looking for a straightforward, reliable GPS running watch. Its built-in GPS accurately tracks your distance, pace, and route, which is essential for running outdoors. The watch also monitors heart rate at your wrist, giving useful fitness data though it’s not intended for medical use. Battery life is impressive, lasting up to two weeks in regular smartwatch mode and about 20 hours when using GPS continuously, so it can handle long runs and daily wear without frequent charging.

Rating
9.9
Chosen by1,352
Battery Life
Comfort and Design
Heart Rate Monitoring

Most important from
4502 reviews

Battery Life
The watch delivers impressive battery life, easily lasting up to two weeks with regular use and around 20 hours of continuous GPS tracking.
Comfort and Design
Its lightweight design makes it barely noticeable on the wrist, providing comfort during runs without feeling bulky or heavy.
Heart Rate Monitoring
Heart rate monitoring is reliable and accurate compared to previous models, delivering consistent data directly from the wrist.
Training and Performance Metrics
Customizable workout displays allow tailoring information like heart rate, pace, and distance to personal preferences, enhancing the training experience.
#2
9.8 score

Garmin Forerunner 265 Running Smartwatch, Colorful AMOLED Display, Training Metrics and Recovery Insights, Black and Powder Gray

The Garmin Forerunner 265 Running Smartwatch is designed with runners in mind, featuring a bright 1.3-inch AMOLED touchscreen display that remains visible even in direct sunlight. It offers a solid battery life, lasting up to 13 days in smartwatch mode and up to 20 hours when using GPS, making it ideal for long-distance runners or those who don't want to charge their watch frequently. The advanced heart rate monitoring and training metrics provide valuable insights into your performance and recovery, helping you plan and adjust your workouts effectively.

Rating
9.8
GPS Accuracy
Battery Life
Heart Rate Monitoring

Most important from
759 reviews

GPS Accuracy
GPS accuracy is a standout feature, providing precise tracking for outdoor activities.
Battery Life
Battery life is impressive, lasting several days on a single charge even with regular use of GPS.
Heart Rate Monitoring
Heart rate and pulse ox tracking are very accurate when compared to dedicated devices.
#3
9.8 score

Garmin Forerunner 165, Running Smartwatch, Colorful AMOLED Display, Training Metrics and Recovery Insights, Black

The Garmin Forerunner 165 is designed specifically for runners, offering an impressive range of features that cater well to fitness enthusiasts. One of its standout strengths is the built-in GPS, which provides accurate pace and distance tracking, essential for any runner. The AMOLED display is vibrant and easy to read, even in bright sunlight, and the lightweight design makes it comfortable for long runs. Battery life is another significant plus, offering up to 11 days in smartwatch mode and 19 hours in GPS mode, allowing runners to train without frequent recharges.

Rating
9.8
Battery Life
Smartwatch Features
Comfort and Design

Most important from
1041 reviews

Battery Life
Worked 9 days on one charge, even with 3 swimming sessions.
Smartwatch Features
Nice display, good to have both buttons and touch screen.
Comfort and Design
Comfortable and looks pretty good.

Top 10 Best Garmin Watch For Runners 2025 in the United States

#1

Winner

9.9  score

Garmin Forerunner 55, GPS Running Watch with Daily Suggested Workouts, Up to 2 weeks of Battery Life, Black - 010-02562-00

GPS Accuracy: Built-in GPS
Battery Life: Up to 2 weeks smartwatch mode
Heart Rate Monitoring: Wrist heart rate monitoring
Training and Performance Metrics: Workouts, race predictions, pacing, multi-sport
Water Resistance: Pool swimming suitable
Smartwatch Features: Bluetooth, app customization, no music
Comfort and Design: Light, comfortable, 1.04-inch screen

Chosen by 1352 this week

Garmin Forerunner 265 Running Smartwatch, Colorful AMOLED Display, Training Metrics and Recovery Insights, Black and Powder Gray

GPS Accuracy: Multi-band GNSS with SatIQ
Battery Life: Up to 13 days smartwatch, 20 hours GPS
Heart Rate Monitoring: Advanced heart rate monitoring
Training and Performance Metrics: Advanced training metrics, recovery insights
Smartwatch Features: Smart notifications, Garmin Pay
Comfort and Design: 1.3-inch AMOLED display, 46mm size

Garmin Forerunner 165, Running Smartwatch, Colorful AMOLED Display, Training Metrics and Recovery Insights, Black

GPS Accuracy: Built-in GPS
Battery Life: 11 days smartwatch, 19 hours GPS
Heart Rate Monitoring: Yes
Training and Performance Metrics: Daily workouts, recovery insights
Smartwatch Features: Smart notifications, Garmin Pay
Comfort and Design: Lightweight design

Garmin Forerunner® 255 Music, GPS Running Smartwatch with Music, Advanced Insights, Long-Lasting Battery, Black - 010-02641-20

GPS Accuracy: impressive
Battery Life: 14 days smartwatch, 30 hours GPS
Heart Rate Monitoring: heart rate variability
Training and Performance Metrics: personalized workouts, adaptive training plans
Smartwatch Features: music storage, always-on display
Comfort and Design: lightweight, comfortable

Garmin Forerunner® 965 Running Smartwatch, Colorful AMOLED Display, Training Metrics and Recovery Insights, Black and Powder Gray, 010-02809-00

GPS Accuracy: Multi-band GPS with SatIQ tech
Battery Life: 23 days smartwatch, 31 hours GPS
Heart Rate Monitoring: Advanced heart rate monitoring
Training and Performance Metrics: Cadence, stride, power, training plans
Water Resistance: Water-resistant
Smartwatch Features: Fitness-focused smartwatch functions
Comfort and Design: Lightweight titanium bezel

Garmin Forerunner® 955 Solar, GPS Running Smartwatch with Solar Charging Capabilities, Tailored to Triathletes, Long-Lasting Battery, Black - 010-02638-00

GPS Accuracy: Multi-band satellite support
Battery Life: 20 days in smartwatch mode
Heart Rate Monitoring: HRV status
Training and Performance Metrics: Training readiness, race widget, workouts
Durability and Water Resistance: Suitable for sports and outdoor activities
Smartwatch Features: Always-on display, solar charging

Garmin® Forerunner® 970, Premium GPS Running and Triathlon Smartwatch, AMOLED Display, Built-in LED Flashlight, Carbon Gray DLC Titanium with Black Case and Black/Translucent Whitestone Band

GPS Accuracy: Built-in GPS, multi-band, full-color maps
Battery Life: 15 days smartwatch, 26 hours GPS
Heart Rate Monitoring: Advanced running metrics, ECG support
Training and Performance Metrics: Garmin Coach, readiness score, multisport
Smartwatch Features: Calls, voice assistants, notifications
Comfort and Design: 1.4-inch AMOLED, titanium bezel, sapphire lens

Garmin Forerunner® 955, GPS Running Smartwatch, Tailored to Triathletes, Long-Lasting Battery, Whitestone

GPS Accuracy: Multiple satellite systems
Battery Life: 15 days smartwatch, 42 hours GPS, 80 hours UltraTrac
Heart Rate Monitoring: Advanced
Training and Performance Metrics: Training readiness, performance indicators, race widget
Smartwatch Features: Full-color display, touchscreen, traditional buttons
Comfort and Design: Full-color display, may feel bulky

Garmin® Forerunner® 570, 42mm, Advanced GPS Running and Triathlon Smartwatch, AMOLED Display, Training and Recovery Features, Cloud Blue Aluminum with Translucent Whitestone/Cloud Blue Band

GPS Accuracy: reliable built-in GPS
Battery Life: 10 days smartwatch, 18h GPS
Heart Rate Monitoring: heart rate monitoring
Training and Performance Metrics: VO2 max, training readiness, recovery
Water Resistance: triathlon, open-water swimming support
Smartwatch Features: calls, voice assistant, mic, speaker
Comfort and Design: 42mm aluminum case, lightweight

Garmin fēnix® 8 – 47mm, AMOLED, Premium Multisport GPS Smartwatch, Long-Lasting Battery Life, Dive-Rated, Built-in LED Flashlight, Slate Gray with Black Band

GPS Accuracy: SatIQ tech, multi-band GPS
Battery Life: 16 days smartwatch, 47 hours GPS
Heart Rate Monitoring: Sleep, respiration, Pulse Ox tracking
Training and Performance Metrics: Real-time stamina, training metrics
Water Resistance: Up to 40 meters
Smartwatch Features: Speaker, mic, voice assistant compatible
Comfort and Design: Steel bezel, durable design
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Buying Guide for the Best Garmin Watch For Runners

Choosing the right Garmin watch for running can significantly enhance your training and overall running experience. Garmin offers a range of watches with various features tailored to different types of runners, from beginners to seasoned marathoners. To make an informed decision, it's essential to understand the key specifications and how they align with your running goals and needs.
GPS AccuracyGPS accuracy is crucial for tracking your runs accurately, including distance, pace, and route. High GPS accuracy ensures that the data you receive is reliable, which is important for monitoring your progress and planning your training. Garmin watches typically offer good GPS accuracy, but some models may have advanced features like multi-band GPS for even better precision. If you run in urban areas with tall buildings or dense forests, a watch with higher GPS accuracy will be beneficial.
Battery LifeBattery life determines how long your watch can function before needing a recharge. This is particularly important for long-distance runners or those who participate in ultra-marathons. Garmin watches come with varying battery life, from a few hours in GPS mode to several weeks in smartwatch mode. If you are a casual runner, a watch with moderate battery life will suffice. However, if you engage in long runs or multi-day events, opt for a model with extended battery life.
Heart Rate MonitoringHeart rate monitoring helps you track your cardiovascular performance and ensure you are training within your target heart rate zones. This feature is essential for optimizing your workouts and preventing overtraining. Garmin watches offer wrist-based heart rate monitoring, and some models also support external heart rate straps for more accurate readings. If you are serious about heart rate training, consider a watch with advanced heart rate features.
Training and Performance MetricsTraining and performance metrics provide insights into your running efficiency, form, and overall fitness. These metrics can include VO2 max, lactate threshold, cadence, and ground contact time. Garmin watches vary in the number and complexity of metrics they offer. Beginners may not need all the advanced metrics, while experienced runners and those training for specific goals will benefit from a watch that provides comprehensive performance data.
Water ResistanceWater resistance is important if you run in various weather conditions or want to use your watch for swimming. Garmin watches come with different levels of water resistance, typically measured in meters. A watch with a water resistance rating of 50 meters or more is suitable for running in the rain and swimming. If you only run in dry conditions, water resistance may be less of a priority.
Smartwatch FeaturesSmartwatch features include notifications, music storage, contactless payments, and more. These features can enhance your overall experience by allowing you to stay connected and entertained during your runs. Garmin watches offer a range of smartwatch functionalities, from basic notifications to advanced features like music streaming and payment options. Consider which features are important to you and how they will fit into your running routine.
Comfort and DesignComfort and design are important for ensuring that you enjoy wearing your watch during runs. Factors to consider include the weight, strap material, and overall size of the watch. Garmin offers watches in various designs, from lightweight and sleek to more robust and feature-packed models. Choose a watch that feels comfortable on your wrist and suits your personal style, as this will encourage you to wear it consistently.

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