The Ultimate Guide to Tracking Your Running with Your Smartwatch
The Ultimate Smartwatch Guide - Get The World On Your Wrist
boAt Watch Storm
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The Best GPS Running Watches
For automated workout tracking, GPS running watches represent a step up from fitness trackers: In addition to step counts and distance measurements, GPS watches offer a slew of advanced training metrics.
Since 2014, weve put 34 watches through the paces, taking hundreds of heart-rate readings, interviewing running experts about models and features, and wearing the watches for long and short runs on trails and on tracks. The reliable Coros Pace 3with its speedy GPS acquisition and excellent battery lifeis the best choice for most runners.
For Garmin devotees or folks who want more smartwatch features than the Pace 3 provides, the Forerunner 255 and Forerunner 255S offer the best overall value in the companys lineup. Meanwhile, the Forerunner 45 and Forerunner 265 are trusty budget and upgrade picks, respectively.
Our pick
The newest version of a long-standing favorite gets a better battery life and better GPS, but it lacks an advanced screen.
Coros Pace watches have been lauded for their long-lasting batteries, quick GPS acquisition times, and accurate tracking capabilities. The newest version, the Coros Pace 3, improves on those attributes, and it adds some long-desired features like dual-frequency GPS tracking and music storageall without a steep price hike.
Compared with previous watches in the series, the Pace 3s most notable upgrade is arguably the improved GPS. The dual-frequency GPS tracking allows this watch to connect to up to five satellites, theoretically creating better signals in remote areas or when the user is surrounded by tall buildings (the Pace 2 connected to only two satellites). In regular tests near skyscrapers in Manhattan, the Pace 3 had the quickest GPS signal acquisition time of our picks.
The Pace 3 also has the longest battery life of any watch we tested. It has a color touchscreen, but it lacks an AMOLED screen, which creates the vibrant colors you see on many smartphones and higher-end running watches, including our upgrade pick.
Runner-up
This watch packs running-watch technology in a smartwatch package, but it has a shorter battery life than the Coros Pace 3.
This upgraded version includes music streaming and storage capabilities.
The watches in the Garmin Forerunner 255 series remain some of the best GPS running watches, with accurate distance and route tracking, as well as solid heart-rate monitoring. There are plenty of features for runners and triathletesincluding sport modes like trail running and triathlon trainingas well as multiband GPS and a decent battery life (14 days, compared with the Coros Pace 3s 24 days). The 255S has a 41 mm case, and the Forerunner 255 has a 46 mm case. If you seek extensive music storage and streaming, Garmin offers the Forerunner 255S Music version (for an additional $50). However, the Forerunner 255 (without music streaming) is still about $130 more than the Coros Pace 3. Given the Pace 3s new updates, the Forerunner 255S falls just a notch below our top pick in value.
Budget pick
This pared-down watch has fewer features than all of our other picks, but it still offers more than a fitness tracker.
The Garmin Forerunner 45 doesnt have as many activity modes as our other Garmin picks, but it has reliable GPS and performs almost as well at accurately measuring distance. We found that the heart-rate monitoring showed bigger discrepancies during intense workouts (we tested all of our watches with a trusted heart-rate-monitor chest strap). And it lacks swim tracking, music, a colorful screen, and other features found in the higher-end Garmins we recommend in this guide.
Upgrade pick
This pricey watch has a beautiful screen, and it offers many features for athletes whose interests go beyond running.
With its vibrant screen and user-friendly interface, the Garmin Forerunner 265 stands out. The colors on the display really pop, and theres no major glare in direct sunlight, so scrolling through the various screens is a cinch. And on the right side, theres a handy Run button, which allows you to go directly into tracking a run. The Forerunner 265 is just as accurate at measuring distance, routes, and heart rate as the Forerunner 255S. The Forerunner 265 also includes storage for music, as well as a comprehensive training readiness feature, which helpfully guides you with prompts of when and how hard you should train (something the 255S and 255S Music lack).
Best Smartwatches for Tracking your Health in 2024 Revealed
The best smartwatches for health tracking are perhaps the height of convenience - accurate GPS tracking, heart rate monitoring, and even sleep tracking are all a flick of the wrist away - but not all great smartwatches are created equally. Some are great for keeping up with socials and messages, while others can be classed as the best fitness trackers for health monitoring.
With the latest and greatest smartwatches for health tracking, enthusiasts can be warned about early illnesses, symptoms of serious conditions such as heartbeat irregularity, and even stress signs that greatly impact our health and well-being.
The best smartwatches for health tracking at a glance:
Best overall: Fitbit Versa 4 Fitness - View on Amazon Best Samsung health-tracking smartwatch: Samsung Galaxy Watch5 Pro - View on Amazon Best Apple Watch for health tracking: Apple Watch Series 8 - View on Amazon Best Garmin smartwatch for health tracking: Garmin Venu 2 - View on Amazon
Health tracking can be a critical and often useful gauge for your fitness progression, urging you not only to take certain lifestyle choices into question but also to keep you pushing for the absolute best body performance - an essential tool for marathons or any form of intensive exercise.
We've compiled the latest and greatest (and most affordably priced) technology from a wide range of top brands, giving you an insight into just what kind of technology is available at your budget. So, save yourself the endless internet doom-scrolling and find the best the internet has to offer in seconds. Below, see the best smartwatches for health tracking.
The best smartwatches for health tracking of 2024
All prices are correct at the time of writing. Prices, stock and deals are subject to change without notice.
Best overall smartwatch for health tracking
Amazon/FitbitRrp: 169.00
Price: 169.00
Fitbit has been dominating the smartwatch market for years now, so it's little wonder that the Versa 4 fitness smartwatch is potentially one of the most impressive, yet affordable health-tracking tools we've come across.
With more features than most smartwatches on the market, Fitbit's Versa 4 has practically anything and everything you want from a smartwatch. GPS? Check. Heart rate tracking? Check. Blood oxygen monitoring? Absolutely.
From sleep and stress tracking to heart rate and skin temperature variation tracking, even blood-glucose monitoring - there really isn't much this smartwatch can't do. Fitbit has truly gone above and beyond to deliver a health-tracking watch that does everything, and we couldn't be happier.
Pros
- Excellent array of features
- Affordable smartwatch
- Perfect for health tracking
Cons
- Some features require a subscription
Rrp: 169.00
Price: 169.00
Best value Apple smartwatch for health tracking
Amazon/AppleRrp: 399.00
Price: 399.00
We're also fond of Apple's smartwatch range, and the series 9 is a clear reason why. This model features unique double-tap controls that allow you to navigate the watch without even touching it. Combine that with its impressive water resistance and it's clear this is every swimmer's best friend.
We also want to note that the Series 9 features 64 GB storage, so you're unlikely to ever run out of space.
As for the downside, the battery life is definitely a bit disappointing. While 18 hours sounds good on paper, and you're unlikely to have it ever run out during the daytime when out and about, you will need to top it up every evening.
Pros
- Brilliant waterproofing
- Great storage capacity
- Unique double-tap controls
Cons
- Outclassed in terms of battery life
Rrp: 399.00
Price: 399.00
Best Samsung health-tracking smartwatch
Amazon/SamsungRrp: 429.00
Price: 345.99
Samsung's top-of-the-line Watch 5 Pro is the pinnacle of smartwatch technology right now - built for even the toughest of long-distance excursions and the most accurate total body tracking from heartbeat irregularities to blood pressure tracking - alongside a huge array of health and wellbeing tracking for peace of mind, it's simply an excellent Samsung smartwatch.
What puts the Samsung Watch 5 Pro in front of the competition most of all is its unbeatable battery life of over 80 hours, which is practically unheard of for such a slim watch design, it's just that good. If you want the very best the market has to offer, look no further. This is easily one of the best smartwatches for health tracking.
Pros
- Incredibly powerful smartwatch
- Plenty of health-tracking features
- Excellent battery
Cons
- Some reviewers found the BP, ECG and heart rate readings were a little inaccurate
Rrp: 429.00
Price: 345.99
Best Garmin smartwatch for health tracking
Garmin/AmazonRrp: 349.99
Price: 239.00
Perhaps the pinnacle of Garmin smartwatch technology currently, the Garmin Venu 2S is a simply excellent smartwatch, perfect for those who need a tough, versatile smartwatch with plenty of fitness and health features ready to go.
In terms of health tracking features, Garmin's Venu 2S has plenty; heartbeat irregularity warnings, blood-oxygen saturation, body battery monitoring (perfect to gauge if you're quite ready for the next workout), stress monitoring - this excellent Garmin smartwatch puts your health before any fancy tech features, and for that, it's more than deserving of being on our list.
Of course, Garmin doesn't quite knock it out of the park compared to its Apple and Samsung competition - often screens become overcrowded with an excess of information that is largely unnecessary for your daily health tracking. Pick your display readout wisely to avoid this situation.
Pros
- Stunning display
- Good array of health tracking
- Widely compatible with Apple and Samsung
Cons
- One reviewer found the silicone strap to irritate the wrist a little - not good if you suffer from sensitive skin
Rrp: 349.99
Price: 239.00
Best Apple Watch for health tracking
Rrp: 669.00
Price: 669.00
The Apple Watch Series 8 is far and beyond one of the best Apple smartwatches on the market right now - a sharp screen, an endless array of health tracking applications from heart rhythm irregularity tracking to menstrual cycle tracking - there's really not much the Apple Watch can't handle.
Syncing perfectly well with the Health tracking app, get a huge amount of health advice at the touch of a button - it's just that fantastic.
Pros
- Excellent smart features
- Stylish and comfortable
- Great for health tracking
Cons
- Weaker battery than Samsung Watch 5 Pro
Rrp: 669.00
Price: 669.00
Best high-end health tracking smartwatch
Amazon/GarminRrp: 650.00
Price: 650.00
Perhaps one of the most impressive smartwatches on the list, Garmin's fnix 7S Solar is a wonder of modern technology - solar charging, hundreds of tech programs and features for every sport on the surface of the earth, and about as much health tracking to boot.
With advanced blood-oxygen sensors, morning reports on your sleep, stress tracking, hydration and respiration tracking, it's just perfect for keeping you in the know about your own body.
At over 500, it's definitely on the pricier side, but we still think the Garmin fnix 7S is more than worth it.
Pros
- Stunning, practical design
- Incredibly tough
- Mind-blowing solar charging
- Myriad of health tracking features
Cons
- Watch size is quite large, so not great for small wrists
Rrp: 650.00
Price: 650.00
Best easy-to-use smartwatch for health tracking
Amazon/FitbitRrp: 269.99
Price: 219.00
You can never really go wrong with a Fitbit, and the Fitbit Sense 2 is a great example of that. It has the usual suite of tracking features you expect to see, but we're especially keen on the inclusion of stress tracking for helping to know when you need to take a step back.
It's especially great for how easy it is to use. It takes minimal setup, and from there you can use it for payments, calls, texts, and more. Plus, the included 6-month membership is a nice bonus.
Pros
- Very accurate
- Stress tracking is a great feature
- Simple to use
Rrp: 269.99
Price: 219.00
Best hybrid Garmin smartwatch
GarminPrice: 259.99 (was 279.99)
For those looking for the classic simplicity of an analogue watch, with the option to explore the latest and greatest smart features, the Garmin Vivomove Trend might just be for you.
As we explored in our hands-on Garmin Vivomove review, the Vivomove trend offers users a much more simplified smart experience, combining analogue and smart features for a seamless hybrid experience. Track hydration, sleeping, running speeds and heart rate at a touch with this simple, yet brilliant smartwatch.
Designed with absolute elegance in mind, this beautifully styled watch is perfect for formal occasions, as well as the sweat-inducing post-work run. A great example of the best smartwatches for health tracking.
Pros
- Gorgeous classic design
- Simple to use
- Great battery life
Price: 259.99 (was 279.99)
Best smartwatch display for health tracking
Amazon/AppleRrp: 248.00
Price: 248.00
This 2nd generation Apple Watch SE sports a brilliant display that's easy to read and understand at a glance. It's always on, which might not be to everyone's tastes, but there are plenty of customisation options to truly make it your own. We just wish it had a few extra trackers.
A nice addition is the fall and crash detection that helps out in emergencies, so it's an extra bit of peace of mind.
Pros
- Easy to adjust and customise
- The screen is clear and readable at all times
- Fall and crash detection provides an extra sense of safety
Cons
- Fewer features than some other smartwatches
Rrp: 248.00
Price: 248.00
Best budget health tracking smartwatch
Amazon/FitbitFor the barebones of health and fitness tracking - that's heart rate monitoring, step counting, calories burned and message notifications - Fitbit's Inspire 2 is one of the best budget smartwatches on the market.
Tough and reliable, whilst remaining incredibly subtle in its design - the Fitbit Inspire 2 isn't going to blow you away with an array of features, but what it does do, it's quite brilliant at.
Pros
- Incredibly affordable
- Great basic health and fitness tracking
- Light and comfortable
Cons
- Not nearly as sophisticated as higher-end models
The best smartwatches for health tracking FAQs
How accurate are smartwatch health trackers?
According to the Heart Rhythm Society, the modern smartwatch is an accurate and reliable source of heart rate tracking - possibly the most important part of health tracking on a smartwatch - so you can rest assured your heart health can be tracked with a great deal of precision.
Can smartwatches detect heart problems?
Modern smartwatches from Apple, Samsung, Fitbit and Garmin have heart irregularity detection - that is, they're able to detect if your heart is not beating at a normal pace.
However, this is not a suitable substitution for expert medical advice, if you have any concerns you should absolutely consult your GP or physician.
Apple versus Samsung: Which has the best smartwatch?
There's no definitive answer to this question - both have their strengths and weaknesses - Samsung watches have better battery life, whilst Apple's apps are considered easier to use and organised in a more visually appealing style - it's anybody's game.
Are smartwatches harmful to health?
While a great smartwatch can be a fantastic exercise motivator and a powerful tool for fitness monitoring - it should be said that such an attachment to smart devices can lead to body-image issues, unhealthy obsessions with health and can reinforce obsessive thoughts.
If you already suffer from such issues, it might be best if you steer clear of smartwatches altogether.
Ryan Houghtonis a commercial content writer for Whats The Best, known best for his expertise in gaming, with a particular soft spot for PC gaming, audio tech, televisions and smartphones.
Diligently writing for Whats The Best for almost two years, there are very few tech products Ryan hasnt had his hands on to review; televisions, headphones, folding phones and even LEGO, if its nerdy, hell be there.
His well-versed history as one of the resident techies at Whats The Best has kept him keen to uncover the very best deals, savings and offers for those in need of a cracking deal to upgrade their setup.
In his downtime, Ryan most likely has his nose buried in a fantasy book, or his eyes glued to a screen whilst playing a tough-as-nails Soulslike or leisurely RPG, indulging in most forms of escapism where possible.
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