GPS running watches are all the rage. They can let you keep track of the distance that you walk, jog, or run. You can track your progress, monitor your results, check your heart rate, and even set running paths.
There are dozens of quality options on the market, but how do you choose the best gps running watch? We have gathered a selection of the top Gps watches. Take a look at the following watches, learn a little about their features, and then explore more details.
Top Gps Running Watches Comparison Table 2017
| Product name | Rating | Price | ||
|---|---|---|---|---|
 | Fitbit Surge Fitness Superwatch * | $236.96 |  | |
 | Garmin fenix 3 * | $499.99 | | |
 | Garmin Forerunner 220 * | -- | | |
 | Garmin Forerunner 235 * | -- | | |
 | Garmin Forerunner 620 * | $229.99 | | |
 | Garmin Forerunner 920XT * | $269.99 | | |
 | Polar V800 GPS Sports Watch * | $300.18 | | |
 | Suunto Ambit3 Peak * | $250.00 | |
As a runner and triathlete you tend to buy a lot of gear and devices to stay at that competitive edge. Having a gps watch is a must have for anyone serious about tracking their results, wanting to know their splits, their pace per mile, what their lap times are each workout and of course having a heart rate monitor to see how well you are doing during your runs, bike or swim.
So, I put together a top 10 list of gps watches out on the market that you will want to research and consider buying to take your training to the next level. Without further ado, let’s get this party started below!
Top 9 Gps Running and Triathlon Watches
Suunto Ambit3 Peak GPS Heart Rate Monitor
Suunto Ambit3 Peak is not just a sports watch. It contains a heart monitor, along with an abundance of features to help you get more out of your workouts. Connect wirelessly to your smartphone or tablet to upload the data from your last run, hike, or swim. Here is a look at some of the main features included in this GPS running watch:
- Calorie counter
- Date indicator
- GPS route tracking
- Over 20 different fitness metrics to track
- Suunto Ambit3 heart rate monitor belt available
Suunto has developed a monitor that really works, by including a heart rate monitor belt that connects to the watch. It also contains the features that you would expect from a GPS watch, including GPS route tracking and connectivity with smart devices. Check out reviews here on amazon.
Buying Factors
- Tracks pace and distance via wrist sensor
- Battery life – 15 hours in training mode / 50-hours in watch mode
- Suitable for – Training, running, cycling
A digital compass, altimeter, barometer and storm alarm are all welcome additions to this watch. When you connect the device to your phone, tablet, laptop, or computer, you can view over 20 different metrics from your workout. Whether you are into CrossFit workouts, interval training, running, swimming, or just about any other form of training and exercise, the Suunto Ambit3 is beloved by athletes and fitness enthusiasts.
Polar V800 GPS Sports Watch
Polar is a major name in sports equipment and gear, including GPS sports watches. The Polar V800 GPS sports watch includes a unique display that is equally modern and retro. It also contains the following features:
- 24/7 activity data
- 14-hour battery life in training mode
- GPS tracking
- Water resistant design
- Upload data
- Compatible with the H7 Bluetooth Smart heart rate monitor belt
Polar is one of the most recognized names in GPS running watches. This device seems to be a favorite among triathletes. It provides accurate fitness tracking, even during interval training. They have also commented on the long battery life and comfort of the design. It is suitable for any conditions, including swimming. Though, some users have noted that the heart rate monitor can take a while to connect while underwater. Learn more about it here on amazon.
Buying Factors
- Track routes, distance, speed, pace, and altitude in real time via GPS sensor
- Battery life – 14 hours in training mode
- Suitable for – Cycling, swimming, triathlon training
Overall, the majority of customers seem happy with the Polar V800 GPS sports watch. But, there were a few complaints. More features are to be included in future firmware updates for the device, but for now, some users may not find as many features as they would like. Some of the settings, including screen customization and training targets, can only be set through the web application.
Garmin Forerunner 220
Most people recognize the name Garmin. They are the industry leader when it comes to GPS devices, so it would make sense that they would have their own line of GPS running watches. The Forerunner series includes a variety of models, including this Garmin Forerunner 220:
- GPS running watch with a high-resolution color display
- Automatically upload your workout data
- Set goals and track your progress
- Can be used indoors or outdoors
- Water resistant
- Can be purchased with heart rate monitor belt
Garmin has released a number of models since releasing the Forerunner 220, but many still enjoy this more affordable option. It lacks some of the features included in other Garmin Forerunner watches, such as increased water resistance. The battery life may be a little short if you plan on training for a triathlon. The lack of color combos may also turn away some buyers. You can read our full forerunner 220 review here.
Buying Factors
- Track distance and pace when indoors or outdoors in real time via GPS sensor and accelerometer (capable of connecting to a foot pod sensor)
- Battery life – 10 hours in training mode / 6 weeks in watch mode
- Suitable for – Running, cycling, swimming, training, everyday use
Other than a few minor complaints from a select few users, the Garmin Forerunner 220 remains a popular choice. The display is clear and easy to read while the fitness tracking is accurate in a variety of conditions.
Garmin Forerunner 225
The Garmin Forerunner 225 is not much different from the 220. Garmin is known for GPS devices and the Garmin Forerunner 225 does provide solid GPS tracking, along with these features:
- Unique graphic interface
- GPS tracking for distance and pace
- Accelerometer
- Activity tracking
- Optical wrist sensor for heart rate monitor
This may not be the top watch from Garmin, but many users are completely happy with the Garmin Forerunner 225. It is easy to use, with an original graphic interface and easy to press buttons. You may enjoy the simplified display. It makes it easy to glance down at your watch during your workout. Read the detail forerunner 225 review here.
Buying Factors
- Count steps, calories, and distance during the day via GPS sensor
- Battery life – 10 hours in training mode / 4 weeks in watch mode
- Suitable for – Running, swimming, cycling, everyday use
The Forerunner 225 receives overwhelmingly positive comments and reviews from users. While it may not include as many features as some of the higher end GPS running watches, it does have a solid design.
Garmin Forerunner 235
Another Garmin Forerunner GPS running watch that you could consider is the Forerunner 235. This watch has a 44% larger screen than the Forerunner 225. In addition to a larger screen, you can expect these features and benefits:
- Smart notifications
- Activity tracker
- Audio prompts
- Waterproof (up to 50 meters)
- Compatible with heart rate monitor belt (not included)
This is a great product from a trusted name in GPS devices. The GPS tracking is accurate and great for sustained running. Some users have mentioned that it is not as accurate for interval training. This may depend on the specific activity that you are performing.
Buying Factors
- Track distance and pace in real-time via GPS sensor and accelerometer
- Battery life – 12 hours in training mode / 50 hours in watch mode
- Suitable for – Running, cycling, swimming, training, everyday use
The Forerunner 235 is versatile, just like other GPS running watches in the Forerunner series. You can use it while indoors, outdoors, or underwater. It is rated as water resistant for up to 50 meters deep. 50 meters is fairly standard for a sports watch. This also means that you can use it in the shower. Being able to customize the watch face by downloading other options from the website is also a neat feature. There are many choices to choose from – allowing you to customize the look of your watch.
Garmin Forerunner 620
Garmin Forerunner 620 has a simplified design and is lightweight. Garmin has ensured that this watch offers accurate GPS tracking. Though, it does have other benefits. Here are some of the main features of this watch:
- High-resolution color touchscreen display
- Calculates your recovery time
- Provides feedback on your running form
- Upload data to Garmin Connect or other fitness sites
- Compatible with heart rate monitor (not included)
Many users were genuinely impressed with this sports watch. The ability to provide you with feedback that takes into account your ground contact, cadence, and vertical oscillation. It learns your potential and lets you know how long it will take to recover from your workout.
Buying Factors
- Built-in accelerometer tracks distance and pace in real time – even when indoors
- Battery life – 10 hours in training mode / 6 weeks in watch mode
- Suitable for – Running, cycling, swimming, training, everyday use
The battery life seems to be suitable for most users. You can easily recharge the watch at home. But, a single charge should last you at least a couple of weeks. Of course, this will depend on the amount of activity you perform. It also works well with uploading your data to other apps. You can easily upload activities to RunKeeper, Strava, and other popular fitness sites. Read our full review on the forerunner 620 here.
Garmin Forerunner 920XT
The Garmin Forerunner 920XT is the most advanced sports watch in the Forerunner series. It includes a variety of features that previously included in the Forerunner series, including some of the following:
- Record speed, distance, ascent, descent, grade and more
- Smart notifications – allows you to see incoming email and texts
- Live tracking uploads your data automatically
Not only does the Garmin Forerunner 920XT contains some great features, it is easy to use. It includes a bright display with side buttons for navigation. It charges via a USB cable. People love using this watch but have mentioned that the battery life is not very long.
Buying Factors
- Accurate tracking via GPS sensor (compatible with other sensors, including heart rate monitors)
- Battery life – 10 hours in training mode / 40 hours in watch mode
- Suitable for – Running, swimming, training
There have also been comments about the inaccuracy of the tracking while cycling. Though, there have been plenty of positive comments as well. The higher resolution display is clearer than previous models and connectivity via Bluetooth and Wi-Fi have been made simple. Read our detailed forerunner 920xt review here.
Fitbit Surge Fitness Super Watch
Fitbit has revolutionized GPS running watches. They made these devices popular for the masses, instead of just for athletes and those training for marathons. The Fitbit Surge Fitness Super Watch is one of their higher-end entries into the GPS watch market. It includes the following:
- Track workouts and activities all day
- Receive text notifications on the touchscreen display
- Wrist sensor for heart rate monitor
The inclusion of GPS tracking, music control, and notifications were all big hits with customers. Previous Fitbit devices did not include these features. Though, some people have mentioned that the heart rate monitor is not always effective. This is to be expected with a wrist pulse monitor as opposed to an actual heart rate belt.
See the lowest price here.Buying Factors
- Real-time distance and pace tracking via GPS sensor
- Battery life – 7 days
- Suitable for – Running, swimming, cycling
The styling is fairly unisex, making it suitable for men or women. It can also be used as an everyday watch. It has a long battery life, especially when you are not using the various fitness features. The backlit display also makes the watch easy to use when jogging or running in the early morning or late evening.
Garmin Fenix 3 Sapphire Multisport GPS
In addition to the Forerunner, Garmin has another line of GPS running watches. The Garmin Fenix 3 Sapphire Multisport GPS watch offers more than the Forerunner series. It includes extended battery life and a durable domed sapphire lens, along with these features:
- Omnidirectional steel EXO antenna
- 2-inch high-resolution color Chroma display
- Wireless and Bluetooth connectivity
- Ability to add additional apps, widgets, and watch faces
- Compass, barometer, and altimeter
- Heart rate monitor belt available
What do people have to say about the Garmin Fenix 3 Sapphire? Most users have commented on the streamlined design of the watch over previous Garmin watches. It also has a clear display that is easily visible in full sunlight.
Buying Factors
- Accurate real-time distance and pace tracking via GPS sensor
- Battery life – 20 to 50 hours
- Suitable for – Running, cycling, swimming, training
This device is a little heavier than some of the other GPS running watches. Though, you should get used to this after a couple of days. The fields on the watch face are adjustable, which also helps make the display easier to see – mount to your handlebar and keep track of your ride while cycling. See the best price for the Garmin fenix 3, Sapphire here.
Summary
These are among the top GPS watches currently available. When choosing a watch, make sure that you thoroughly review all of the features of any watch that you are considering purchasing. Ensure that it meets your needs. Take the time to explore all of your options before coming to a final decision.