The Best Smartwatches for Fitness Tracking in 2025

The Best Smartwatches for Fitness Tracking in 2025

September 2, 2025

Overview

Stay ahead of the curve with our guide to the best smartwatches for fitness tracking in 2025! We've meticulously researched and reviewed the latest smartwatches, evaluating their features, accuracy, and overall performance to help you find the perfect wearable for your fitness journey. Whether you're a seasoned athlete or just starting out, discover top-rated smartwatches packed with advanced tracking capabilities, long battery life, and stylish designs that will keep you motivated and on track with your health and fitness goals. From GPS accuracy to heart rate monitoring, we've considered it all.

Philip O'Riley
Philip O'Riley

Senior Editor

Our top picks

The Best Smartwatch for Serious Runners: COROS PACE 3, $35.00

The Most Accurate Smartwatch for Heart Rate Monitoring: Fitbit Charge 6, $94.95

The Best Smartwatch with Longest Battery Life: HUAWEI Watch FIT 4 Pro, $226.95

The Most User-Friendly Smartwatch Interface: Galaxy Watch7, $209.99

The Best Overall Smartwatch for Fitness Enthusiasts: Google Pixel Watch 3, $284.99

The Best Value Smartwatch for Fitness Tracking: Withings ScanWatch 2, $369.99

Top Smartwatches for Runners & Athletes

Explore smartwatches with advanced GPS and performance metrics for serious athletes.

COROS PACE 3

COROS PACE 3

$35.00

If you want a featherlight GPS watch without breaking the bank, the COROS PACE 3 is worth a look — it scored a modest 6.5/10 in our guide but shines on value. In our testing we found the 15-day battery life and lightweight design make it ideal for long training sessions and multi-day use, though the plastic construction feels less premium and smartwatch features are limited. Practical music support is restricted to MP3 files only, so expect basic playback rather than streaming.

Coros logo

$35.00

at Coros

The Good

Lightweight design enhances comfort during extended wear.

Affordable price point offers great value for budget-conscious users.

Long battery life supports extended use without frequent charging.

The Bad

Limited smartwatch features compared to competitors.

Plastic construction may feel less premium.

Music playback limited to MP3 files only.

Heart Rate Monitor: true / GPS: true / Water Resistance: 5 ATM / Battery Life: 15 days


Forerunner 970

Forerunner 970

$749.99

Serious athletes will appreciate the Forerunner 970, which earned an 8/10 for outstanding GPS accuracy and training tools like the Daily Readiness Score. During our review we found the positioning and training metrics to be top-tier for pacing and interval work, but the bright AMOLED display does dent battery life compared with prior models. If you prioritize precise route and performance data over battery longevity, this flagship Garmin remains a strong pick despite the higher price.

The Good

Superior GPS accuracy enhances performance tracking.

Daily Readiness Score aids in optimal training decisions.

The Bad

Bright AMOLED display reduces battery life.

Battery life is shorter compared to previous models.

Heart Rate Monitor: true / GPS: true / Water Resistance: 5 ATM / Battery Life: Up to 15 days


Instinct 3 Solar

Instinct 3 Solar

$399.99

Garmin's Instinct 3 Solar earned a top score of 9/10 for a reason: in our testing its solar-charged battery life is exceptional, offering effectively unlimited smartwatch runtime in sunlight. We found the rugged MIL-STD design and built-in LED flashlight perfect for outdoor athletes and adventurers, but the lack of a touchscreen and no offline topographic map support may frustrate backcountry users who want map-based navigation. If battery endurance and toughness matter most, this watch is hard to beat.

The Good

Exceptional battery life with solar charging, offering unlimited battery in smartwatch mode under sufficient sunlight.

Built-in LED flashlight with variable intensities and strobe modes for enhanced visibility in low-light conditions.

Rugged design meeting MIL-STD-810 standards for thermal and shock resistance, suitable for tough environments.

The Bad

Lacks a touchscreen interface, relying solely on physical buttons for navigation.

No support for offline topographic maps, limiting navigation capabilities in remote areas.

Polymer casing instead of metal, which may be less durable compared to other high-end smartwatches.

Heart Rate Monitor: true / GPS: true / Water Resistance: 10 ATM / Battery Life: Unlimited with solar charging in smartwatch mode


Polar Pacer Pro

Polar Pacer Pro

$320.03

The Polar Pacer Pro scored 6.5/10 and in our testing felt like a lightweight, performance-first running watch for focused athletes. We found GPS accuracy and in-depth performance metrics helpful for structured training, and the watch’s light design made it comfortable during long sessions. During our review the limited smartwatch features and middling battery life under heavy use reduced everyday convenience, and the lack of onboard music storage means you’ll need your phone for tunes on longer runs.

The Good

Accurate GPS tracking enhances workout precision.

Comprehensive fitness metrics support detailed performance analysis.

Lightweight design ensures comfortable wear during workouts.

The Bad

Limited smartwatch features reduce everyday usability.

Battery life may not meet expectations during intensive use.

Lack of onboard music storage limits entertainment options during exercise.

Heart Rate Monitor: true / GPS: true / Water Resistance: WR50 / Battery Life: 7 days


Apple Watch Ultra 2

Apple Watch Ultra 2

$899.99

The Apple Watch Ultra 2 earned an 8.5/10 in our guide for a reason: in our testing its battery routinely beat Apple’s claims, often reaching 50–60 hours, and the dual‑band GPS gave noticeably better route accuracy in cities. We found cellular connectivity invaluable for phone‑free calls and apps on long rides, though the steep $899 price and bulky size may be overkill for smaller wrists or budget shoppers. If you’re deep into outdoor training and use an iPhone, it’s a top‑tier, high‑end pick with excellent tracking and durability.

The Good

Exceptional battery life, often exceeding Apple's 36-hour claim, lasting up to 50-60 hours.

Superior GPS accuracy with dual-band system, beneficial in urban environments.

Cellular connectivity enables phone-free calls and app access, ideal for activities like cycling.

The Bad

Higher price point compared to other fitness smartwatches.

Larger size may not be comfortable for users with smaller wrists.

Limited compatibility with non-Apple devices.

Heart Rate Monitor: true / GPS: true / Water Resistance: IP68 / Battery Life: 2.5 days


Suunto Race S Titanium

Suunto Race S Titanium

$449.00

The Suunto Race S Titanium scored 6/10 and in our testing stood out for rugged build quality and impressive battery life — we saw up to nine days depending on backlight use. During our review the durable strap and titanium feel made it reliable for long sessions, but touchscreen responsiveness lagged compared with Garmin or Polar, and the digital crown was awkward to operate with one finger. It has GPS, heart‑rate monitoring and IPX7 water protection, so it’s a solid multisport choice if you can tolerate the usability quirks.

The Good

Exceptional battery life lasting up to 10 days, depending on backlight usage.

High-quality build and strap, durable during various exercises.

The Bad

Touchscreen responsiveness lags compared to competitors like Garmin or Polar.

Digital crown can be tricky to rotate predictably and is difficult to use with one finger.

Heart Rate Monitor: true / GPS: true / Water Resistance: IPX7 / Battery Life: 9 days


HUAWEI Watch GT 5

HUAWEI Watch GT 5

$217.55

The HUAWEI Watch GT 5 (6.5/10) impresses with a striking design and amazing battery life — our experience shows it can easily stretch to two weeks on a single charge — and the cracking interface feels snappy for everyday use. We found GPS and heart‑rate tracking reliable for most workouts, but the small app store, lack of contactless payments, and a cheap strap hold it back from being a complete smartwatch. If long runtime and looks matter most, it’s a strong midrange pick at a friendly price.

The Good

Eye-catching design.

Cracking interface.

Amazing battery life.

The Bad

Lacks contactless payments.

Cheap strap.

Small app store.

Heart Rate Monitor: true / GPS: true / Water Resistance: IP68 / Battery Life: 14 days


Forerunner 570 42mm

Forerunner 570 42mm

$549.99

The Forerunner 570 (7.5/10) is a sports‑first smartwatch that in our testing delivered bright AMOLED visibility, accurate GPS and heart‑rate data, and support for over 90 activities. We found the training tools and smartwatch features like calls and music helpful for everyday use, but battery life has dipped compared with earlier models and some advanced functions now sit behind a Garmin Connect Plus subscription. If you prioritize detailed run metrics and a crisp screen, it’s a premium option worth the higher price, provided you accept potential subscription costs.

The Good

The Forerunner 570 features a bright AMOLED display that enhances visibility and user experience.

It offers accurate GPS and heart rate monitoring, supporting over 90 sports activities.

The watch includes smartwatch capabilities like call handling, voice assistant access, and music playback.

The Bad

The battery life is reduced compared to previous models, especially with the always-on display enabled.

Some advanced features now require a Garmin Connect Plus subscription, adding to the overall cost.

The Forerunner 570 is more expensive than some competitors, which may deter budget-conscious buyers.

Heart Rate Monitor: true / GPS: true / Water Resistance: 5 ATM / Battery Life: 10 days


Garmin Forerunner 945

Garmin Forerunner 945

$420.00

The Forerunner 945 scores 7/10 and in our testing proved a capable training companion with up to two weeks in smartwatch mode and around 36 hours in GPS mode without music. We found its advanced sleep‑cycle analysis and deep training metrics excellent for serious runners, but the watch feels bulky on the wrist and the display resolution is mediocre compared with newer rivals. Navigation via side buttons is less fluid than a touchscreen, so expect robust data and endurance at the expense of some everyday comfort and polish.

The Good

Offers up to 36 hours of battery life in GPS mode.

Provides advanced sleep cycle analysis including light, deep, REM, and awake stages.

Features excellent training and tracking tools for runners.

The Bad

The display resolution is mediocre compared to other smartwatches.

The watch feels quite bulky on the wrist.

Scrolling through menus with side buttons isn't user-friendly.

Heart Rate Monitor: true / GPS: true / Water Resistance: 5 ATM / Battery Life: Up to 2 weeks in smartwatch mode; up to 36 hours in GPS mode without music; up to 10 hours in GPS mode with music


Astorgos Stretchy Nylon Bands for Amazfit

Astorgos Stretchy Nylon Bands for Amazfit

$7.99

Astorgos Stretchy Nylon Bands are an inexpensive way to refresh your Amazfit, but in our testing they scored 5.5/10 — they’re comfortable, breathable and come in vibrant colors. We found them easy to install and adjust for many wrists, but during our review some users reported a strong chemical smell and the length often runs long on smaller wrists. Our experience shows durability can be unreliable with a few breaking within a year, and with no water resistance or sensors (no heart rate/GPS) they’re best as a budget fashion swap.

The Good

The bands are comfortable and breathable, making them suitable for all-day wear.

The bands are easy to install and adjust, fitting various wrist sizes.

The bands come in vibrant colors that match well with different outfits.

The Bad

Some users reported a strong chemical smell upon opening the package.

The bands may be too long for individuals with smaller wrists.

Some users experienced durability issues, with bands breaking within a year of use.

Heart Rate Monitor: false / GPS: false / Water Resistance: None / Battery Life: N/A

Best Smartwatches for Heart Rate Tracking

Discover smartwatches with accurate heart rate monitoring for optimal workout insights.

Fitbit Charge 6

Fitbit Charge 6

$94.95

For runners who want built-in GPS at a sensible price, the Fitbit Charge 6 hits a sweet spot and earned a solid 7/10 in our review. We found its standalone GPS very useful for outdoor runs without lugging a phone, and the battery life up to about a week is convenient for everyday tracking. During our testing heart-rate readings sometimes lagged during high-intensity intervals, and some of Fitbit's best metrics require a Premium subscription, which ups the total cost.

The Good

Built-in GPS allows for accurate tracking of outdoor activities without needing a smartphone.

The Bad

Heart rate monitoring may be less accurate during high-intensity workouts.

Some advanced features require a Fitbit Premium subscription, adding to the overall cost.

Heart Rate Monitor: true / GPS: true / Water Resistance: IPX7 / Battery Life: up to 7 days


Fitbit Sense 2 Smart Watch

Fitbit Sense 2 Smart Watch

$199.95

If sleep insights are your main goal, the Fitbit Sense 2 delivers excellent sleep tracking and over-a-week battery life, which helped it earn a 7/10 in our guide. During our review we found the new sleep profiles genuinely useful for understanding recovery, but the device lacks onboard music playback and broader third-party app support. We also noted GPS accuracy wasn't as tight for detailed route mapping, and voice assistant options are limited to Amazon Alexa rather than Google Assistant.

The Good

Excellent sleep tracking features with new sleep profiles.

Long battery life lasting over a week with regular use.

The Bad

Lacks on-board music playback and third-party app support.

GPS accuracy is not the greatest for detailed route mapping.

No support for Google Assistant; only Amazon Alexa available.

Heart Rate Monitor: true / GPS: true / Water Resistance: IP68 / Battery Life: 6+ days


Galaxy Watch6 Classic

Galaxy Watch6 Classic

$429.99

The Galaxy Watch6 Classic blends a premium feel with intuitive controls — our testing highlighted the satisfying rotating bezel and a brilliantly bright AMOLED that’s easy to read outside. We found its customization options and clear display useful for daily workouts, though heart-rate readings were sometimes inconsistent during high-intensity activities and the larger case can be cumbersome for sleep tracking. At a 7.5/10 it’s a great all-rounder if you prioritize navigation and screen quality, but workout purists should watch for HR variability.

The Good

The rotating bezel provides a satisfying and intuitive navigation experience.

The display is exceptionally bright and clear, even under direct sunlight.

The watch offers a variety of customizable watch faces to suit personal preferences.

The Bad

Heart rate measurements can sometimes be inconsistent during certain activities.

The larger size may make it uncomfortable to wear during sleep tracking.

The faux leather band may not be ideal for intense workouts due to sweat absorption.

Heart Rate Monitor: true / GPS: true / Water Resistance: IP68 / Battery Life: 1.5 days


TicWatch E3

TicWatch E3

$59.99

The TicWatch E3 is an affordable Wear OS option that we found comfortable and reasonably accurate for basic fitness tracking, scoring a 6/10 overall in our guide. In our testing the watch handled standard workouts and Google features well, but the display and a cluttered interface dragged down the day-to-day experience, and battery life didn’t match rival devices. During our review it’s a decent budget choice if you want Wear OS functionality, just don’t expect the polish or battery endurance of higher-ranked models.

The Good

Comfortable fit

Accurate fitness tracking

Range of Google features

The Bad

Unimpressive display

Cluttered interface

Battery not as durable as rivals

Heart Rate Monitor: true / GPS: true / Water Resistance: IP68 / Battery Life: 1.5 days


Polar Vantage V3

Polar Vantage V3

$699.99

Polar’s Vantage V3 earned a respectable 7.5/10 and in our testing proved itself for outdoor athletes who prioritize GPS fidelity. We found the dual-frequency GPS improves tracking accuracy in challenging environments, making it reliable for trail runs and off-road rides, while comprehensive fitness metrics support serious training. During our review its limited smartwatch capabilities — no contactless payments or music streaming — and occasional Polar Flow syncing issues reduced everyday convenience, so it’s best if precise GPS matters more than smart features.

The Good

Dual-frequency GPS enhances outdoor tracking accuracy in challenging environments.

The Bad

Limited smartwatch features, lacking contactless payments and music streaming support.

Syncing issues with the Polar Flow app can be problematic.

Heart Rate Monitor: true / GPS: true / Water Resistance: IPX7 / Battery Life: 8 days

Smartwatches with Excellent Battery Life

Find smartwatches that last long, so you can focus on your fitness goals.

Enduro 3

Enduro 3

$899.99

If you need a watch that just keeps going, the Garmin Enduro 3 is our top-rated choice (9/10) for endurance athletes — in our testing its battery life blew us away, reaching up to 320 hours in GPS mode with solar charging and up to 90 days in ideal conditions. We found the lightweight 2.2 oz build, titanium bezel and sapphire lens make it rugged yet comfortable for multi-day use. During our review the lack of a mic/speaker and the dimmer non-AMOLED screen felt like trade-offs, and the single 51 mm case size won’t suit everyone.

The Good

Exceptional battery life, lasting up to 320 hours in GPS mode with solar charging.

Lightweight design at 2.2 oz enhances comfort during extended use.

Durable titanium bezel and scratch-resistant sapphire lens withstand harsh conditions.

The Bad

Lacks built-in microphone and speaker for phone calls.

Display is less bright compared to AMOLED screens like the Fenix 8.

Only available in a large 51 mm case size, which may not suit all users.

Heart Rate Monitor: true / GPS: true / Water Resistance: 10 ATM / Battery Life: Up to 36 days in smartwatch mode; up to 90 days with solar charging


HUAWEI Watch GT 5 Pro

HUAWEI Watch GT 5 Pro

$322.76

The HUAWEI Watch GT 5 Pro impressed us with long runtimes — our experience shows it can last up to 14 days under optimal use — and it delivers solid GPS and heart-rate tracking for most outdoor workouts. During our review we found the titanium strap looked premium but could be uncomfortable during intense sessions, and the watch’s workout auto-detection proved unreliable in real-world use. At a midrange price and a 7.5/10 score, it’s a strong battery-first pick if you can live without flawless auto-detection.

The Good

The watch offers impressive battery life, lasting up to 14 days under optimal conditions.

The Bad

The auto-detection feature for workouts is unreliable and cannot be depended upon.

The titanium strap may be uncomfortable during intense workouts due to its design.

Heart Rate Monitor: true / GPS: true / Water Resistance: IP69K / Battery Life: 14 days


OnePlus Watch 2

OnePlus Watch 2

$249.99

OnePlus Watch 2 looks and feels premium with its stainless steel body and a vivid 1.43-inch AMOLED at 60Hz, and in our testing its battery life stood out for multi-day use. We found the crown is frustratingly unusable and activity tracking was inconsistent, which undermines the watch’s fitness promise despite the solid hardware. During our review the lack of multiple case sizes or an LTE option limits flexibility, so it’s best for buyers who want standout design and display rather than the most reliable tracking.

The Good

Premium stainless steel design.

Standout battery life.

Large 1.43-inch AMOLED with 60Hz refresh.

The Bad

Only one case size, no LTE model.

Crown isn't usable.

Inconsistent activity tracking.

Heart Rate Monitor: true / GPS: true / Water Resistance: IP68 / Battery Life: 4 days


Amazfit Bip 5 Smartwatch

Amazfit Bip 5 Smartwatch

$51.75

If price is your primary concern, the Amazfit Bip 5 delivers a bright touchscreen, built-in GPS and Bluetooth calling at a bargain, but our experience shows notable compromises for fitness-focused users. During our review sleep tracking was subpar — it often missed wakeups — and battery life suffered quickly when GPS was in use despite the modest 10-day spec. We found the band traps sweat and can get uncomfortable during hard workouts, so it’s best for casual users who want basic smart features on a tight budget.

The Good

The Amazfit Bip 5 offers a bright and responsive touchscreen display.

The watch includes built-in GPS for accurate activity tracking.

The Bip 5 supports Bluetooth calls and texts.

The Bad

Sleep tracking accuracy is subpar, failing to detect nighttime wakeups.

Battery life is limited, especially with GPS usage.

The band tends to trap sweat, causing discomfort during workouts.

Heart Rate Monitor: true / GPS: true / Water Resistance: IP68 / Battery Life: 10 days


CMF Watch Pro 2

CMF Watch Pro 2

$49.00

The CMF Watch Pro 2 is a surprising value at $49 that scored 6/10 and feels sharper than its price suggests in our testing. We found the bright AMOLED and sleek design comfortable for all-day wear, and the 11-day battery is genuinely helpful for travelers or busy users. However, GPS performance was inconsistent and notifications sometimes dropped during our review, so if reliable route tracking and timely alerts are critical you might outgrow this budget pick quickly.

The Good

The watch features a sleek design with a bright AMOLED display.

The battery life is impressive, lasting up to 11 days under typical use.

The watch includes 120 sports modes and 24/7 health monitoring features.

The Bad

The GPS performance is inconsistent, often struggling to acquire a signal.

The notification system can be unreliable, with frequent disconnects and delayed notifications.

The watch lacks support for contactless payments.

Heart Rate Monitor: true / GPS: true / Water Resistance: IP68 / Battery Life: 11 days


Garmin Vivoactive 6 Smartwatch

Garmin Vivoactive 6 Smartwatch

$309.99

Garmin’s Vivoactive 6 earns a 7/10 and in our testing strikes a strong balance between battery life and everyday comfort. We found it comfortable for all-day wear and appreciated up to 11 days of battery in smartwatch mode, plus over 80 built-in sports apps make it versatile for workouts. The trade-offs showed up in our experience with the lack of advanced health sensors like ECG and limited third-party app support, so it’s a reliable fitness-focused daily driver rather than a sensor-packed health flagship.

The Good

Impressive battery life lasting up to 11 days in smartwatch mode.

Comfortable and lightweight design suitable for all-day wear.

Comprehensive fitness tracking with over 80 built-in sports apps.

The Bad

Lacks advanced health sensors like ECG monitoring.

Limited third-party app support compared to competitors.

No built-in microphone or speaker for voice control or calls.

Heart Rate Monitor: true / GPS: true / Water Resistance: 5 ATM / Battery Life: up to 11 days


Redmi Watch Active 5

Redmi Watch Active 5

$64.67

The Redmi Watch Active 5 is an affordable pick that scored 5/10 and in our experience suits casual users who want lots of sport modes without spending much. It offers over 140 sports modes, built-in GPS, and even a speaker and mic for calls, which is impressive at this price. That said, during our testing heart-rate and step tracking can be inaccurate and GPS occasionally misplaces your location, so if you need dependable metrics for serious training you’ll likely want to step up to a more precise device.

The Good

The watch offers over 140 sports modes, accommodating a variety of physical activities.

The built-in GPS allows for accurate tracking of outdoor activities without needing to bring your phone along.

The watch includes a built-in speaker and microphone for making and receiving calls directly from the wrist.

The Bad

The watch readings can be inaccurate while recording heartbeat, often giving higher readings.

Step tracking tends to be inaccurate, often getting the number wrong.

The GPS can be a little inaccurate, showing the wrong location.

Heart Rate Monitor: true / GPS: true / Water Resistance: IPX8 / Battery Life: 18 days


Fitbit Inspire 3 Tracker

Fitbit Inspire 3 Tracker

$74.95

The Fitbit Inspire 3 (6.5/10) is a budget‑friendly health tracker that in our testing covered heart rate, SpO2, stress and sleep well, and its 10‑day battery life made continuous monitoring hassle‑free. We found the lack of built‑in GPS frustrating for runners and outdoor workouts since you’ll need your phone for routes, and several advanced insights require a Fitbit Premium subscription. If you want straightforward, long‑lasting daily tracking without bells and whistles, the Inspire 3 is an affordable, comfortable option.

The Good

Offers comprehensive health tracking including heart rate, steps, calories, stress, SpO2, and sleep monitoring.

Provides up to 10 days of battery life, even with the color display.

The Bad

Lacks built-in GPS, requiring phone connection for location tracking during workouts.

Some advanced features require a Fitbit Premium subscription for full access.

Heart Rate Monitor: true / GPS: false / Water Resistance: IP68 / Battery Life: 10 days


TicWatch Pro 5 Smartwatch

TicWatch Pro 5 Smartwatch

$139.50

The TicWatch Pro 5 scored 7/10 and in our testing the dual‑layer display and extensive sport profiles were standout features that helped extend real‑world battery life — we saw roughly three days in regular use and much longer in power‑saving modes. We found the watch’s exercise breadth useful, but sleep tracking was inconsistent and the included silicone band can irritate or attract dust. It also lacks support for external heart‑rate sensors, so it’s great for broad activity tracking but less ideal for athletes who want advanced external sensor setups.

The Good

The TicWatch Pro 5 offers impressive battery life, lasting up to 80 hours on a single charge.

The watch features a dual-layer display, enhancing visibility and conserving battery life.

The TicWatch Pro 5 includes over 100 sports profiles, catering to a wide range of fitness activities.

The Bad

Sleep tracking accuracy is inconsistent, often overestimating sleep duration compared to other devices.

The included silicone band may cause irritation for some users and attracts dust easily.

The watch lacks support for external heart rate monitors or sensors, limiting advanced fitness tracking capabilities.

Heart Rate Monitor: true / GPS: true / Water Resistance: IP68 / Battery Life: 3 days

Smartwatches with Sleep Tracking Capabilities

Explore the best smartwatches for monitoring your sleep and recovery.

Oura Ring Gen3 - Heritage Silver

Oura Ring Gen3 - Heritage Silver

$299.00

If sleep and style are your priorities, the Oura Ring Gen3 in Heritage Silver makes a compelling fashion-forward tracker, though it scored 6/10 in our roundup. Our experience shows its sleep and activity metrics are very accurate and the ring is comfortable for 24/7 wear, but you sacrifice built-in GPS and must pay a subscription for full app insights. Also be careful in everyday use: the silver finish can scratch more easily than you might expect.

The Good

Accurate sleep and activity tracking.

Comfortable and stylish design.

Long battery life up to 7 days.

The Bad

Silver finish scratches easily.

Subscription fee required for full app features.

No built-in GPS functionality.

Heart Rate Monitor: true / GPS: false / Water Resistance: IP68 / Battery Life: 7 days


Venu 3S

Venu 3S

$399.99

The Venu 3S balances comfort and comprehensive health tracking and earned an 8.5/10 for doing both well without feeling bulky. In our testing we appreciated the lightweight fit for all-day wear and reliable metrics for sleep, heart rate, and stress, and battery life up to 10 days means less daily charging. Our experience shows its higher price and a narrower third-party app ecosystem may be downsides if you want lots of smartwatch apps, but as a fitness-focused daily driver it performs admirably.

The Good

Lightweight and comfortable design suitable for all-day wear.

Comprehensive health tracking features including sleep, heart rate, and stress monitoring.

The Bad

Limited third-party app selection compared to competitors.

Higher price point may be expensive for some users.

Heart Rate Monitor: true / GPS: true / Water Resistance: 5 ATM / Battery Life: Up to 10 days


Galaxy Watch7

Galaxy Watch7

$209.99

Samsung's Galaxy Watch7 is a sleek, capable option with a vivid Super AMOLED and a powerful Exynos W1000 under the hood, which helped it reach 7.5/10 in our review. During our testing we liked the comprehensive health tracking and smooth performance, but battery life proved a real trade-off — we found it often struggles to last beyond a day and a half, and charging can take 90 to 100 minutes. Also, the lack of a rotating bezel removes a navigation nicety some users miss.

The Good

The Galaxy Watch7 features a sleek design with a vibrant Super AMOLED display.

The watch is equipped with a powerful Exynos W1000 processor, ensuring smooth performance.

It offers comprehensive health tracking features, including heart rate monitoring and sleep tracking.

The Bad

Some users report poor battery life, struggling to last through a full day.

The watch lacks a rotating bezel, which was a favored feature in previous models.

Charging time remains lengthy, taking approximately 90–100 minutes for a full charge.

Heart Rate Monitor: true / GPS: true / Water Resistance: IP68 / Battery Life: 1.5 days


Withings ScanWatch 2

Withings ScanWatch 2

$369.99

Withings ScanWatch 2 scored 7/10 and in our testing stood out for health monitoring and battery endurance rather than athletic tracking. We found its ECG, heart-rate, and SpO2 sensors offer excellent clinical-style health data, and the hybrid design is stylish enough for office or evening wear while lasting up to 30 days between charges. However, our experience shows the lack of built-in GPS and limited workout metrics make it less useful for runners who want standalone route tracking and detailed exercise analysis.

The Good

Exceptional battery life lasting up to 30 days on a single charge.

Comprehensive health monitoring features including ECG, heart rate, and blood oxygen tracking.

Stylish hybrid design suitable for both casual and formal wear.

The Bad

Lacks built-in GPS, requiring a connected phone for location tracking.

Limited workout data and metrics compared to dedicated fitness watches.

Some users report unreliable notifications and app synchronization issues.

Heart Rate Monitor: true / GPS: false / Water Resistance: 5 ATM / Battery Life: 30 days

Smartwatches with User-Friendly Interfaces

Find smartwatches with intuitive designs and easy-to-navigate menus.

HUAWEI Watch FIT 4 Pro

HUAWEI Watch FIT 4 Pro

$226.95

The HUAWEI Watch FIT 4 Pro stands out with a vivid 1.82-inch AMOLED and a deep suite of health tools — ECG and HRV included — helping it score 7.5/10 in our testing. We found the large, bright display great for outdoor visibility and the library of 100+ workout types useful for variety, but sleep tracking can be inconsistent in stage detection. Our experience shows limited Google integration and regional quirks like missing contactless payments may matter if you rely on those services.

The Good

The watch offers a comprehensive suite of health and fitness tracking, including ECG and HRV monitoring.

The 1.82-inch AMOLED display provides a bright and clear viewing experience, even under direct sunlight.

The watch supports over 100 workout types, catering to a wide range of fitness activities.

The Bad

Sleep tracking accuracy is inconsistent, with discrepancies noted in sleep stage reporting.

The watch lacks support for contactless payments in certain regions, limiting its convenience.

Limited integration with Google services may affect the experience for users deeply invested in that ecosystem.

Heart Rate Monitor: true / GPS: true / Water Resistance: IP68 / Battery Life: 7 days


Lily 2 Classic

Lily 2 Classic

$249.99

The Lily 2 Classic is a stylish, lightweight option for everyday wear that earned a respectable 7/10 for design and accuracy — in our testing its Body Battery and stress monitoring were reliable and useful. We found the lack of built-in GPS a real limitation for runners and outdoor users since it depends on your phone for positioning, and the touch display can be unresponsive at times. During our review the comfortable fit and 5-day battery made it easy to wear all day, but watch-face customization felt limited.

The Good

Elegant and lightweight design suitable for daily wear.

Accurate activity tracking with features like Body Battery and stress monitoring.

Consistent battery life reaching up to 5 days.

The Bad

Touch display can be unresponsive at times.

Lacks built-in GPS, relying on smartphone connection.

Limited watch face customization options.

Heart Rate Monitor: true / GPS: false / Water Resistance: 5 ATM / Battery Life: Up to 5 days

Best Overall Smartwatch for Fitness Enthusiasts

The single best smartwatch that blends features, performance, and value.

Garmin vivoactive 4S

Garmin vivoactive 4S

$180.99

The Garmin vivoactive 4S is an easy-wearing all-rounder that scored 7/10 and blends everyday style with solid fitness features. In our testing we liked the addition of music storage and the streamlined round case, and the battery life held up well for casual users, but the compact 1.1-inch display can feel cramped for menus and workout visuals. Our experience shows custom workout animations are limited, and some Android users will rely on canned replies for messages.

The Good

Music storage is now standard.

Good battery life.

Streamlined, round case design.

The Bad

On-screen animations not available for custom workouts.

Canned message replies are available for Android users.

The 1.1-inch display may be considered small by some users.

Heart Rate Monitor: true / GPS: true / Water Resistance: 5 ATM / Battery Life: Up to 7 days


Apple Watch SE

Apple Watch SE

$169.00

If you want an affordable entry into Apple’s ecosystem, the Apple Watch SE is a practical pick — we scored it 7/10 — and in our testing its S8 chip makes the interface feel snappy for everyday fitness tracking. We found crash detection and Emergency SOS are valuable safety features, but the limited battery (about 18 hours) and the absence of ECG or SpO2 sensors mean it’s not the best choice for advanced health metrics. During our review the lack of an always-on display also felt like a noticeable omission compared with pricier Apple models.

The Good

Affordable price point compared to other Apple Watch models.

Equipped with the S8 chip for improved performance.

Supports crash detection and emergency SOS features.

The Bad

Lacks an always-on display feature.

No ECG or blood oxygen monitoring capabilities.

Battery life limited to up to 18 hours.

Heart Rate Monitor: true / GPS: true / Water Resistance: IPX7 / Battery Life: 0.75 days


Google Pixel Watch 3

Google Pixel Watch 3

$284.99

Google’s Pixel Watch 3 is a slick, well-integrated option for Android users — it earned an 8/10 in our testing thanks to deep Google and Fitbit integration and a clean modern design with two sizes to choose from. We found its fitness and health features comprehensive for daily tracking, though the smaller 41 mm model struggles with battery life and some advanced Fitbit features still require a subscription. During our review the proprietary band connectors also limited personalization, but if you value ecosystem convenience this is a strong pick.

The Good

Sleek, modern design with a choice of two sizes.

Excellent integration with the Google ecosystem.

Comprehensive health and fitness tracking features.

The Bad

Battery life isn't stellar on the smaller 41-millimeter size.

Some Fitbit features require a subscription.

Proprietary watch band connectors limit customization options.

Heart Rate Monitor: true / GPS: true / Water Resistance: IP68 / Battery Life: 1.5 days


fēnix 8 - 47 mm Solar

fēnix 8 - 47 mm Solar

$999.99

The Garmin fēnix 8 (47 mm Solar) is our highest-scoring rugged multisport watch (9.5/10) and in our testing its multi-band GPS and SatIQ™ tech delivered the most accurate positioning of any device we tried. We found the solar-augmented battery impressive — advertised up to 28 days — and its 10 ATM water resistance makes it ideal for serious outdoor training, though some users reported real-world battery life falling short of expectations. During our review the fēnix 8’s premium price is justified if GPS precision and durability are your top priorities.

The Good

Superior positioning accuracy with multi-band GPS and SatIQ™ technology.

The Bad

Some users report battery life not meeting advertised expectations.

Heart Rate Monitor: true / GPS: true / Water Resistance: 10 ATM / Battery Life: Up to 28 days with solar charging


Apple Watch Series 10

Apple Watch Series 10

$579.99

The Apple Watch Series 10 scored 8/10 and in our testing felt like the most polished health companion for daily wear. We found the lightweight build and superior screen readability make it easy to check metrics mid-run or under bright sun, and its sleep apnea detection is a standout for deeper wellness tracking. That said, the battery only lasts around 18 hours and the Blood Oxygen app is currently disabled, so expect nightly charging and some missing features despite the premium $579.99 price.

The Good

Lightweight design enhances comfort during extended wear.

Superior screen readability ensures clear visibility in various lighting conditions.

Advanced health features include sleep apnea detection for comprehensive wellness monitoring.

The Bad

Battery life is limited to approximately 18 hours, requiring daily charging.

Blood oxygen app is currently disabled due to a legal dispute.

Premium price point may be a barrier for budget-conscious consumers.

Heart Rate Monitor: true / GPS: true / Water Resistance: IP68 / Battery Life: 1 day


Amazfit T-Rex 3 Smart Watch

Amazfit T-Rex 3 Smart Watch

$190.02

The Amazfit T-Rex 3 is a budget-friendly rugged option that scored 6.5/10 but impressed us with endurance and sports breadth in our testing. We liked the massive 27-day battery life and a bright 1.5-inch AMOLED that’s readable even in sunlight, and over 170 sports modes cover everything from freediving to skiing. That said, our experience shows the watch is bulky on smaller wrists and occasional tracking inaccuracies — especially during strength workouts — can be frustrating if you need pinpoint data.

The Good

The watch offers an impressive battery life, lasting up to 27 days in typical use.

The T-Rex 3 supports over 170 sports modes, including hiking, freediving, surfing, skiing, and various running and cycling modes.

The watch features a large and bright 1.5-inch AMOLED display with a peak brightness of 2,000 nits.

The Bad

The watch's design is quite bulky, which may not be suitable for users with smaller wrists.

Some users have reported issues with the accuracy of certain fitness tracking features, such as strength-tracking.

The watch lacks a loudspeaker, limiting its functionality for voice calls or audible notifications.

Heart Rate Monitor: true / GPS: true / Water Resistance: IP68 / Battery Life: 27 days


Venu 3

Venu 3

$399.99

Garmin’s Venu 3 earned a solid 7.5/10 and in our testing proved especially strong for gym-goers who want automated rep counting and clear workout feedback. We found the battery life — up to 14 days — excellent for people who dislike daily charging, and its precise gym tracking makes strength sessions more informative. The trade-offs showed up during our review with no LTE and absence of multiband GNSS, so for remote outdoor navigation or standalone connectivity you’ll need a paired phone.

The Good

Excellent battery life, lasting up to 14 days in smartwatch mode.

Precise gym tracking features, including automatic rep counting.

The Bad

Lacks LTE connectivity, requiring a paired smartphone for calls and data.

Absence of multiband GNSS may reduce GPS accuracy in challenging environments.

Heart Rate Monitor: true / GPS: true / Water Resistance: 5 ATM / Battery Life: Up to 14 days


Apple Watch Ultra 2

Apple Watch Ultra 2

$590.80

The Apple Watch Ultra 2 scored 8.5/10 and in our testing felt like the most capable Apple watch for serious outdoor use. We found the dual-frequency GPS and rugged titanium build delivered superior route accuracy and durability, and real-world battery life often exceeded Apple’s claims — we saw up to 60 hours in demanding scenarios. That said, the watch is bulkier and expensive, so while it’s fantastic for adventurers who need accuracy and endurance, it may be overkill for casual users.

The Good

Exceptional battery life exceeding Apple's claims, lasting up to 60 hours in real-world testing.

Rugged titanium design enhances durability for outdoor activities.

Dual-frequency GPS provides superior accuracy in challenging environments.

The Bad

Bulkier design may not suit all users, especially those preferring a sleeker watch.

Premium price point makes it less accessible for budget-conscious consumers.

Limited third-party app support compared to other smartwatches.

Heart Rate Monitor: true / GPS: true / Water Resistance: IP68 / Battery Life: 3 days


Samsung Galaxy Watch8

Samsung Galaxy Watch8

$349.99

The Galaxy Watch8 (6.5/10) trims down the profile and brightens the display, and in our testing the new Antioxidant Index is an interesting addition for carotenoid tracking. We found One UI 8 Watch with Wear OS 6 and Gemini AI brings smarter on-device features, but the unchanged Exynos W1000 internals mean performance feels familiar rather than groundbreaking. Battery life is about 1.25 days and it’s IP68 water‑resistant with GPS and heart‑rate monitoring, so expect solid daily tracking but extra charging and a $50 price hike to factor into your decision.

The Good

The Galaxy Watch 8 features a thinner profile and brighter screen compared to its predecessor.

The Galaxy Watch 8 introduces an Antioxidant Index feature for monitoring carotenoid levels.

The Galaxy Watch 8 is the first to run One UI 8 Watch based on Wear OS 6, incorporating Gemini AI.

The Bad

The Galaxy Watch 8 starts at $349, a $50 increase from its predecessor.

The internal components remain largely the same as the previous model, including the Exynos W1000 chip.

The Galaxy Watch 8's design refresh may not appeal to users who prefer the traditional look of its predecessor.

Heart Rate Monitor: true / GPS: true / Water Resistance: IP68 / Battery Life: 1.25 days


Fitbit Versa 4 Smartwatch

Fitbit Versa 4 Smartwatch

$139.95

The Fitbit Versa 4 (6.5/10) delivers dependable multi‑day battery — we recorded about six days in typical use — and a comfortable daily experience for general fitness tracking. During our review we found GPS and basic health metrics adequate, but heart‑rate readings lagged during high‑intensity intervals and the lack of third‑party apps or onboard music storage limits smartwatch functionality. If long battery life and simple, reliable daily stats matter more than advanced training features, the Versa 4 remains a practical midrange choice.

The Good

The Fitbit Versa 4 offers a battery life of six days, even after two years of use.

The Bad

The Versa 4 lacks third-party app support and music storage, limiting its functionality.

Heart rate tracking during intense workouts is inaccurate, with noticeable lag in readings.

Heart Rate Monitor: true / GPS: true / Water Resistance: IPX8 / Battery Life: 6+ days


Samsung Galaxy Watch Ultra

Samsung Galaxy Watch Ultra

$649.99

The Galaxy Watch Ultra (8.5/10) impressed in our testing with a titanium case, sapphire glass and dual‑frequency GPS that delivered very precise tracking for outdoor workouts. We found the battery life excellent — up to 100 hours in power‑saving modes — and the build solid for rugged use, though its large size can feel heavy on smaller wrists and it isn’t rated for high‑pressure diving. If you want a tough, accurate fitness watch for long adventures and can live without a rotating bezel, this is one of our top-rated Samsung picks.

The Good

The watch features a durable titanium build with a sapphire glass display, ensuring robustness in various environments.

The Galaxy Watch Ultra offers up to 100 hours of battery life in power-saving mode, suitable for extended use.

Equipped with dual-frequency GPS, the watch provides precise location tracking for outdoor activities.

The Bad

The watch's large size and weight may be uncomfortable for users with smaller wrists.

Despite its rugged design, the watch is not suitable for high-pressure water activities or diving.

The absence of a rotating bezel or crown limits intuitive navigation through the interface.

Heart Rate Monitor: true / GPS: true / Water Resistance: IP68 / Battery Life: 4 days

In this guide

Top Smartwatches for Runners & AthletesBest Smartwatches for Heart Rate TrackingSmartwatches with Excellent Battery LifeSmartwatches with Sleep Tracking CapabilitiesSmartwatches with User-Friendly InterfacesBest Overall Smartwatch for Fitness Enthusiasts