Best Running GPS Units in 2022

Last update: November 22, 2022

Are running watches worth it?

Yes, running watches are definitely worth it! They can help you track your distance, pace, and even heart rate, which can be extremely helpful in helping you reach your running goals. Plus, many running watches also come with cool features like music playback and GPS, which can make your runs even more enjoyable.

Can you track someone with a GPS watch?

Yes, you can track someone with a GPS watch. The watch must be equipped with GPS tracking capabilities and the person wearing the watch must be within range of the GPS signal. Once the watch is within range, the GPS tracking system can pinpoint the location of the watch and the person wearing it.

Do GPS watches have maps?

GPS watches are equipped with mapping capabilities that allow you to view your current location, as well as plan and track your routes. While most GPS watches come pre-loaded with basic maps, you can also download more detailed maps for specific areas, if desired.

Do GPS watches need Internet?

A GPS watch is a type of satellite navigation device worn as a watch. It uses the Global Positioning System to track the wearer's location and provide directions. GPS watches are used for a variety of activities, such as hiking, running, and cycling. While some GPS watches come with built-in maps, others require the user to download maps from the Internet. In general, GPS watches do not need Internet to function. However, some features, such as downloading maps and updating software, require an Internet connection.


Garmin Forerunner 235 Black/Grey, One Size Review:


After a couple pretty disappointing experiences with less expensive watches, this was my foray into the world of timepieces. I use it for biking and running since I truly like it. So far, the tempo and GPS monitoring are perfect. While running, it has a few distinct settings. It's highly user-friendly, and for what I use it for—every other day training runs—the battery life lasts approximately a week. The rest of the time, it's simply a regular watch. The heart rate monitor occasionally becomes unreliable during a long run, but that's the only problem I've ever experienced. As I'm climbing a hard slope, my heart rate drops to a very low number, and I know that my actual heart rate is far greater than the 87 that the device is reporting. On the other hand, there are occasions when I'm hiking at a casual conversational pace and my heart rate registers at over 200 bpm. which I obviously am not. Therefore, be prepared for that or just purchase the chest strap.



FITVII Smart Watch, Fitness Tracker with IP68 Waterproof Touch Screen Watches, Blood Pressure Heart Rate Monitor with Running Pedometer Step Counter Sleep Tracker for Women Men with iPhone & Android Review:


For my 73-year-old mother who has a sedentary lifestyle, easily forgets where she places her phone or cannot hear the phone ring, I purchased this watch. She also has high blood pressure and a fast heartbeat, according to the diagnosis. Her views are mixed with mine in this review.What am I fond of?1. Because it records all of her daily steps, my mum upped the amount of walking she does. Additionally, it vibrates at specific intervals to remind her to exercise.2. She can locate her phone using the "Find Cellphone" option, which is accessible via the settings icon on the same page as the BP and HR.3. The app constantly tracks and logs her blood pressure and pulse. The alert will ring if the pulse increases by more than a predetermined setting limit.4. Up to 20 daily event reminders, such as medical appointments and medication intake, can be set up.What do I dislike?1. For the watch to vibrate when she receives calls or messages, it needs to be close to the phone. In contrast to my home, her modest apartment can use the smart notification.2. I was unable to make Facebook, Twitter, or Whatsapp function.What do I suggest?It's difficult to install. Installing an app, pairing it with the watch through bluetooth, and setting it up are all necessary steps. Ask a younger person to assist you if you aren't particularly tech-savvy or computer-oriented. My mother needed assistance because she was unable to do anything on her own.



ANCOOL Compatible with Fenix 5 Band Easy Fit 22mm Width Soft Silicone Watch Bands Replacement for Fenix 5/Fenix 5 Plus/Forerunner 935/Approach S60/Quatix 5 Review:


This Ancool Fenix 5 band has pleasantly surprised me. I bought this band to wear in support of my squad for an upcoming run event.At only $15.99, it is comparably priced to the original Garmin Quickfit band. Even the black clasp resembles the original in terms of markings and mold. I was tempted to buy this item on a well-known auction site, but I changed my mind after reading the evaluations of the vendors there and learning about their poor customer service and protracted shipping periods. This was what I ordered on a Saturday, and it arrived on a Monday! Valued the extra I payed for.The material has a soft, velvety feel, but it retains the same level of flexibility as the original. It fastens firmly and there is no sense that it will slip off or become loose.Here are some distinctions to highlight upon closer examination:The outer loop fastener has a nub, but the other two are round rather than beveled like the originals.The Ancool clasp is smooth without screws, unlike the original clasp features a torx screw.The screws on the Quickfit system appear to be torx when they are actually philips in the Ancool version.Although the Ancool's rough surface seems more prominent, their appearances are similar.If you're searching for something that comes pretty darn close to the original, I suggest this product. I'm going to purchase a few more hues. Only time will tell how well it endures. I'll adjust my review in that case.



Garmin Forerunner 35; Easy-to-Use GPS Running Watch, Black Review:


I love Garmin. When the Forerunner 10 became popular, I joined the running community and thought a Garmin was my only option. Fitbit could only provide the total amount of steps taken each day at the time. It was, at most, a basic pedometer with few of the GPS and other functions that runners want, all wrapped up in a cute, elegant case. I chose a less expensive Garmin, the Forerunner 15. Many of my running buddies were buying expensive Garmin watches with model numbers like the 910XT, 620, 235, and others that I couldn't afford or rationalize buying for myself at the time. I owned the compact, black, with green trim model FR15. Although I didn't like the way it looked, it was the only black band in the tiny size that was offered. The other had a white face and was pink or purple. Since I used it as both a running watch and an all-day activity/step tracker and I wore red a lot, I didn't really like those colors (hence, why I went with Garmin, and ditched the thought of getting a Fitbit). The only issue was wearing a large, heavy black running watch to church because the attire there is a little more formal. I frequently neglected to take off my watch before leaving the house, so I would sneak it into my handbag and take it off in church.I eventually became so frustrated with the FR15's synchronization and consistency issues (software issues) that I chose to replace it with a another watch. I ultimately purchased a subpar imitation Fitbit that was useless from the start. At the time, I made do with it despite not liking the Fitbit enough to justify the cost and certainly not liking the fact that nothing was waterproof (now there are 2 waterproof models, but the running metrics are still limited at best). My "El-Cheapo" was fantastic as a smart watch but awful as a pedometer, jogging watch, or exercise watch. Since Garmin had just revealed the FR35 will be available soon, I ultimately decided to return it. I thought the images represented the fulfillment of my dreams. The FR35's band options were finally more appealing and fashionable, and it wasn't as huge and unwieldy as the FR235 (the 235 is still $329, totally out of my price range) (especially for a full-featured running watch).Next, let me tell you what I ADORE about this watch: DESIGN. The square face is gorgeous. It resembles the Apple Watch or the Fitbit Blaze in appearance. It contains a wrist-based heart rate monitor, which is why the FR235 had caught my attention in the past. The watch face is the same for all the hues, making this even better. I think I can ultimately switch the band. I adore the white band that I purchased. I wear it all day, every day when I cook, clean, run, etc., and there is absolutely no dinginess. I once accidentally spilled some pizza sauce on it (oh no! ), but it was quickly wiped off with a cloth and some hand sanitizer, leaving no red stains at all. Frost Blue was almost what I chose, but I ultimately concluded that white or black go with practically anything. Another beneficial aspect is the size. It is smaller than the round FR220, 225, 230, 235, Fenix, etc. A large circular watch just seemed too "blingy" to me because of how thin my wrists are. Even with the new heart rate monitor, it isn't as thick on top as my FR15 was. Compared to my FR15, the band is more flexible and has more notches for a better fit. The band is supple enough to provide the perfect fit, and the heart rate sensors don't scrape into my wrist (they protrude less than most other wrist-based HR monitors I've seen).One of my favorite options for making it look less like a running watch is the analog watch face choice. Even though I definitely shouldn't wear it to a black-tie event, this watch is generally ideal for me, which is one of the things I enjoy most about it.The screen's display is clear, and the data fields you can enter there provide far more information than my FR15 provided. This device has no trouble operating in direct sunlight. The display is sharp and transparent. It appears to adjust to the lighting so that the screen is clearly visible. It was mentioned as being similar to the Kindle "paperwhite" screen, and that description seems to be accurate.



Garmin Forerunner 35, Easy-to-Use GPS Running Watch, Frost Blue Review:


I love Garmin. When the Forerunner 10 became popular, I joined the running community and thought a Garmin was my only option. Fitbit could only provide the total amount of steps taken each day at the time. It was, at most, a basic pedometer with few of the GPS and other functions that runners want, all wrapped up in a cute, elegant case. I chose a less expensive Garmin, the Forerunner 15. Many of my running buddies were buying expensive Garmin watches with model numbers like the 910XT, 620, 235, and others that I couldn't afford or rationalize buying for myself at the time. I owned the compact, black, with green trim model FR15. Although I didn't like the way it looked, it was the only black band in the tiny size that was offered. The other had a white face and was pink or purple. Since I used it as both a running watch and an all-day activity/step tracker and I wore red a lot, I didn't really like those colors (hence, why I went with Garmin, and ditched the thought of getting a Fitbit). The only issue was wearing a large, heavy black running watch to church because the attire there is a little more formal. I frequently neglected to take off my watch before leaving the house, so I would sneak it into my handbag and take it off in church.I eventually became so frustrated with the FR15's synchronization and consistency issues (software issues) that I chose to replace it with an another watch. I ultimately purchased a subpar imitation Fitbit that was useless from the start. At the time, I made do with it despite not liking the Fitbit enough to justify the cost and certainly not liking the fact that nothing was waterproof (now there are 2 waterproof models, but the running metrics are still limited at best). My "El-Cheapo" was fantastic as a smart watch but awful as a pedometer, jogging watch, or exercise watch. Since Garmin had just revealed the FR35 will be available soon, I ultimately decided to return it. I thought the images represented the fulfillment of my dreams. The FR35's band options were finally more appealing and fashionable, and it wasn't as huge and unwieldy as the FR235 (the 235 is still $329, totally out of my price range) (especially for a full-featured running watch).Next, let me tell you what I ADORE about this watch: DESIGN. The square face is gorgeous. It resembles the Apple Watch or the Fitbit Blaze in appearance. It contains a wrist-based heart rate monitor, which is why the FR235 had caught my attention in the past. The watch face is the same for all the hues, making this even better. I think I can ultimately switch the band. I adore the white band that I purchased. I wear it all day, every day when I cook, clean, run, etc., and there is absolutely no dinginess. I once accidentally spilled some pizza sauce on it (oh no! ), but it was quickly wiped off with a cloth and some hand sanitizer, leaving no red stains at all. Frost Blue was almost what I chose, but I ultimately concluded that white or black go with practically anything. Another beneficial aspect is the size. It is smaller than the round FR220, 225, 230, 235, Fenix, etc. A large circular watch just seemed too "blingy" to me because of how thin my wrists are. Even with the new heart rate monitor, it isn't as thick on top as my FR15 was. Compared to my FR15, the band is more flexible and has more notches for a better fit. The band is supple enough to provide the perfect fit, and the heart rate sensors don't scrape into my wrist (they protrude less than most other wrist-based HR monitors I've seen).One of my favorite options for making it look less like a running watch is the analog watch face choice. Even though I definitely shouldn't wear it to a black-tie event, this watch is generally ideal for me, which is one of the things I enjoy most about it.The screen's display is clear, and the data fields you can enter there provide far more information than my FR15 provided. This device has no trouble operating in direct sunlight. The display is sharp and transparent. It appears to adjust to the lighting so that the screen is clearly visible. It was mentioned as being similar to the Kindle "paperwhite" screen, and that description seems to be accurate.



Garmin Fenix 6X Sapphire, Premium Multisport GPS Watch, features Mapping, Music, Grade-Adjusted Pace Guidance and Pulse Ox Sensors, Dark Gray with Black Band Review:


I raised my rating from four to five stars since I was able to make changes to my daily routine based on the fresh data the F6x gathered while I was moving around and napping. Also, when outside, the GPS locks on really quickly. While I do miss a few features from the F3 HR, they are minor, and overall, the F6x is an improvement over the previous design. I was hoping the Fenix to Fenix upgrade/migration procedure would be incredibly smooth coming from a Fenix 3 HR. Like the default watch face would remain the same or custom activities would just carry over. Both of these statements are false, and even though I learned how to construct a custom activity, Connect does not list the custom name like it did with the F3. There are no watch faces that compare to the F3 HR's straightforward but flawless digital face. The fact that the minutes are out of sync with the hour is my main complaint about the F6x default digital face. However, the F6 Solar's digital face, which is missing the sun gauge in the center, appears just as intended. I would like Garmin to make the F6x Solar default digital face shown—naturally without the solar—available to other F6x users. This face shown has the hours and minutes inline and the other data fields surrounding it. Moving on to looks, the Fenix 3 HR features a matte grey bezel that goes with anything, from work suits to shorts. In contrast, the F6x Sapphire grey bezel is quite polished, giving it a nearly blued shine. Thankfully, I was able to swiftly switch from the F6x sapphire's shipping watch band, which has notches, to the older style band, which has a nicer feel. If you buy for the pulse ox, turning it on will reduce the battery life from 21 to 15 days (assuming the battery is at 100%). The battery will be more heavily taxed from 15 to 10 days if the other pulse ox setting is changed to continuous. Due to cable length and the fact that the new cable positions the watch in an uncomfortable angle that feels like it could weaken the connection or break off, I dislike the F6 charging cable and strongly prefer the old-style F3 cradle. The F6x is reporting roughly 50–80 more calories burned when compared to my F3 when performing the same cardiac exercise (MMA) with the same HRM strap used with the F3 HR. Not sure if the F6x takes into consideration pulse oximetry and other biometrics like temperature (the gym is always the same temperature). I ran as usual (without an HRM) under the same circumstances, and the difference in calories from F3 to F6 was 38. The heart rate was compared to Precor gym equipment based on input from other 6x users, and it was same in all ranges. The watch's display is incredibly readable and clear. Because of the screen's size and clarity, HR may be seen far away during the same MMA activity. In comparison to the F3 HR, it is also less bulky on my wrist, however I would like it had a bigger battery. I wake up much more easily with the F6x alarm clock's vibration and tones than with the F3. I decided against buying the solar variant because of the face's purple hue and worry that it would be less scratch- and break-resistant than the Sapphire versions, as my F3 HR Sapphire had never had any damage during its more than three years of continuous use. I'm hoping Garmin reads this feedback and fixes things. Back in March 2016, the F3 HR completely changed my life. Now, with the F6x Sapphire in Carbon Grey and a black band, I'm curious to see the F6x Sapphire in Black with the leather strap in person (assuming the black has a matte finish). The capacity to track sleep is underappreciated, which adds to the point about how it can change your life. I have two screenshots of my sleep using the 6x attached. Very accurate (even with pulse oximetry), and the Apple Watch, even with the gen 5, is unable to match this. Every physical effort requires recovery time. From I've had this watch for more than two weeks (since September 5), my only complaints are that it needs Garmin to improve the default digital face and the shiny carbon grey (to me, it looks light grey) bezel on an otherwise excellent product.Update: Since iOS 13.1 both of the issues with Connect locking up and not syncing that were present with iOS 13.0 have been resolved. Since then, I've upgraded my phone to iOS 13.1.2 (9/30/19), the latest firmware for my Garmin 6x, and Connect 4.23.2. have experienced no issues whatsoever while using the 6x.



Garmin Foot Pod [Retail Packaging] Review:


It is precisely what it claims to be, which is typical of a Garmin quality product. Because calibration is not required, according to the packing and documentation, the fifth star is missing. Before I calibrated, I discovered that mine was wrong by at most 20% and occasionally as much as 30%, which is a sizable number. Anything less than 5% is perhaps "not required," in my opinion. It might not be necessary for you if your stride or stroke deviates from the norm by no more than 5%, although the manuals make no mention of this. If they produce a high-quality product, which they do, I would anticipate high-quality documentation and instructions to go along with it. For this particular device, this means that they should specify the predefined parameters so that the user can decide whether calibration is actually "not necessary."It upset me because my 310xt didn't inform me how long I had to run to calibrate it; it merely said "calibrating" once it had thawed sufficiently to calibrate it on sufficiently clear surfaces outside (through GPS). Since most people I know indicated it took approximately a half-mile to calibrate, mine took one and a half miles, taking considerably longer than I had anticipated. I decided to calibrate it during a warm-up run before a race. It would have been convenient to know that it would take so long or travel such a distance, however I'm not sure if that is a feature of my watch or the pod.You should tune it close to the speed you'll be running at, as others have suggested. I calibrated it on a street and then immediately ran a 5k that turned out to be an indoor trail race (I wasn't anticipating that). However, the difference in my stride on the different surface caused it to be 10% off, which was more than I'd hoped for. Therefore, unless you're only using it for the cadence, be prepared to keep a list of several calibration constants (it's an option on your watch) for each surface if you run on different surfaces.Although I do wear it with many pairs of shoes, I primarily use it for cadence on all but the one pair of shoes on which I calibrated it, so I can't really comment on that. I don't think the various shoes will have as much of an impact as the factors I listed above, so I'm not too worried. Same goes for placement on the shoe; I simply attempt to maintain consistency in relation to my foot for various shoes and restore the lace to the same spot when I switch shoes.In other words, if you want both precision and accuracy, calibration IS necessary. Unless you train for time instead of distance, don't think otherwise.



Polar M430 GPS Running Watch Review:


I eventually came to the conclusion that my Samsung Gear S2 smartwatch wasn't suitable for the job after trying to use it as a running watch. After weighing all of the options from Garmin, TomTom, and other manufacturers, I decided on the Polar M430. I chose the Polar because of its low cost, simplicity of use, and software package. This watch includes all the features that the majority of runners will require. It locks in to GPS VERY quickly, which is fantastic in the chilly, dark mornings. The oblong screen displays a wealth of information and has an easy-to-use interface. The only issue I have with the watch is probably that it took me a while to figure out how to make the backlight stay lit. If you really take the time to compare the features offered by the Polar to those of the competition, I think you'll find that it's the best option.The fact that it can estimate cadence without a foot pod surprised me in a good way! I was really hoping to find this feature without having to purchase a separate foot pod after reading up on the importance of cadence. I believe that the Polar was the only watch that offered it on the watch without requiring a foot pod.



TUSITA Band for Tomtom Runner 2 3,Spark 3,Golfer 2,Adventurer - Silicone Replacement Strap Bracelet Wristband with Screen Protector - GPS Smart Watch Accessories Review:


This is the replacement you've been looking for if you're tired of spending $30 on a tomtom strap that lasts only about six months. Although the verdict is still out regarding durability, at this price it only needs to last me three months to be far superior to the expensive tomtom strap that kept failing on me. It doesn't fit perfectly, as others have noted, and pressing the square function key downward requires a little more effort. However, compared to the Tomtom version, it is a significantly better value overall based on the pricing and capabilities. Once I know how durable it is, I'll update.Update 5/7/2018: The strap is still in excellent shape after a little more than six months. I use this strap every day and there are no cracks or any issues.Update: It happened today (11/5/2018). Thus, it lasted roughly a year. Not the wrist strap, but the edge that holds the display broke.I'll get another one, but this one is undoubtedly imperfect.



Garmin 010-03717-49 Forerunner 235 with Wrist Based Heart Rate Monitoring, Forest Blue/Black Review:


I had the Garmin 230 and really enjoyed it but couldn't ever get the heart rate strap to work for more than 2 minutes of running. I tried two different watches and two various straps, but I was never able to make it work. Could have also been user error, hehe.But except from having a wrist heart rate monitor, the Garmin 235 is identical to the 230.Last night, I used it and it worked well! It fits snugly on my forearm when I slightly push it up my arm, and it accurately measured my heart rate.I like the 4 field view....I enjoy the info and I also think it just looks good too.I think the Connect IQ app is fantastic—it has a ton of data, is easy to read, and is perfect for diving in and getting down to your stats.I wear a Casio GShock Mudmaster as my daily watch and just use this for running.I also have an Omega Seamaster....I do like my watches!I haven't tried it for intervals, but I assume it will work well if you wear it snugly. There might be a second or two of latency, but I don't mind that short of a lag. It works well for me because I run by the clock and heart rate. All the extra bells and whistles are just gravy on the cake.The lowest I could find a new one was on Amazon and I got a yellow band so I can wear it to Columbus Crew soccer games....go Crew!So it's wonderful for running, it looks cool, and you can wear it all day to monitor your heart rate, how much rest you need, etc. for even more information.I don't require much out of a running watch, and this is much better than anything I use, but I know it's there for me if I do!


Does Garmin watch GPS work without phone?

A Garmin watch GPS can work without a phone, but it may be limited in its functionality. It is best to have a phone with you to use as a backup in case the watch GPS fails.

How accurate is COROS GPS?

COROS GPS is a new system that is said to be more accurate than other GPS systems. COROS is a system that uses a combination of three different types of signals to determine your location. These signals are from the GPS satellite, the GLONASS satellite, and the BeiDou satellite. The system is said to be more accurate because it can use all three of these signals to determine your location. The system is also said to be more accurate because it can use the signals from the three satellites to triangulate your location.

How accurate is Garmin for running?

Garmin is a popular GPS company that makes a variety of devices for runners, including watches and foot pods. There is no definitive answer to how accurate Garmin devices are, as it can depend on a number of factors, such as the specific model of device, where you are running, and whether or not you are carrying the device on your person. In general, however, Garmin devices are considered to be quite accurate, and they can be a helpful tool for runners who want to track their progress and distance.

How accurate is Garmin GPS for running?

Garmin GPS devices are very accurate for running, typically within a few seconds per mile. This can vary slightly depending on factors such as satellite visibility and terrain, but overall, Garmin devices are very reliable for tracking running distance and pace.

How can I use my old phone as a GPS?

You can use your old phone as a GPS by downloading a GPS app and using it in conjunction with a map. This can be useful if you are going on a long hike or trip and need to track your location.

Is Apple Watch better than Garmin?