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A good {{DISPLAYTITLE:Best Running Watch, including Garmin, Polar, & Suunto}}As of Jan 2018, I'm no longer actively reviewing watches, but this page will remain accessible as a point in time reference. The "what to look for in a running watch" remains valid and I'd recommend understanding the limitations of GPS for running. I'd recommend checking out [https://thewirecutter.com/reviews/best-running -watch can provide valuable information while ] for a fairly unbiased opinion, but you run, should read [[Stryd| my review of Stryd footpod]] as well as automating your that remains one of the most useful devices for measuring pace and distance. I would suggest avoiding "pseudo-marketing" sites that proport to being detailed reviews without providing any critical thinking. A good litmus test is to check what they say about [[The importance of a training log|training logGPS Accuracy]]– if they say "it's all good" then you'll know it's just marketing. [[File:Best Watch. png|center|thumb|400px|This article flowchart is a concise simple guide to finding the right watch for you. Use it as a starting point, and read the best running watches available todaydetailed reviews to understand if a watch is really right for you. (Click for a larger version. It does not attempt )]] =What to cover every Look for in a Running Watch=A modern running watch on the marketoften has a huge number of features, but I think it does call out some 's best to focus on its ability to avoidanswer these basic questions. __NOTOC__=Summary=* '''How far did I run?''' This is probably the key feature that most runners are looking for, and it requires good [[GPS Accuracy]]. How much the accuracy of a watch will impact your running will depend on the course. Overall, most watches do pretty well in straight lines, but suffer when things get twisty. My testing is a summary tough challenge for GPS, so it highlights the differences between the great and the appalling. With the advent of my recommendationsthe [[Stryd]] footpod that's far more accurate than GPS and doesn't require any calibration, Stryd support is now more important than GPS accuracy. {| class="wikitable"!Watch!!Recommendation Reason!!With Heart Rate Monitor!!Without Heart Rate Monitor!!Accessory Heart Rate Monitor!!* '''How fast am I running?''' While you can work out your average pace from your distance and time, you'll often want to know how fast you're currently running. Unfortunately, GPS is rather poor at answering this question, so you need a [[Stryd]] footpod, or use [[Pace From A Footpod|]] and a first-|Garmin 310XT||The best value for nearly every runner.||generation [[http://goFootpod]].fellrnrAn accurate indication of your current pace is important for any training program that requires running at a specific pace, and for success in racing at many distances.com/* '''Where am I?id=35454X937677&xs=1&xcust=BestWatch310W&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww''' It's not unreasonable to expect a GPS enabled watch to tell you where you are or how to get back to the start.amazonNavigation varies from a simple compass needle showing the direction to return to the start to a display of the route you've just run or a preloaded course.com%2FGarmin-Forerunner-Waterproof-Running-Monitor%2Fdp%2FB0025VKUPM Garmin 310XT with HRM* '''What's my cadence? '''A display of [[Cadence]]||is a critical training tool and newer watches are able to use an internal accelerometer to provide Cadence without any accessories. Other watches may need a [[http://goFootpod]] or the newer Garmin watches can use the running dynamics heart rate strap. A Cadence alert will help you stay in the right cadence range, and is a useful feature.There are several additional features to you could consider, though I'd argue none are as important as the above questions.fellrnr* '''Weight.com/?id=35454X937677&xs=1&xcust=BestWatch310N&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww''' None of these devices weigh enough to have a noticeable impact on running performance, but the weight can be noticeable.amazon* '''Size.com%2FGarmin-Forerunner-310XT-Waterproof-Running%2Fdp%2FB0025VKW5K Garmin 310XT without HRM]||[http://go''' The size of these devices varies widely, and the larger devices can feel a little bulky, especially if you have a smaller wrist.fellrnrI've provided the size as the volume in cubic centimeters to give a single number to compare.com/?id=35454X937677&xs=1&xcust=BestWatchHRM&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww* '''Waterproofing.amazon''' Even if you don't swim, having good waterproofing is important to prevent your watch being destroyed by the rain or sweat.com%2FGarmin-Premium-* '''[[Heart-Rate Monitor-Strap%2Fdp%2FB0029M3NSS Garmin HRM]||].''' [[http://goHeart Rate]] is important information when training, though it is important to understand the limitations of heart rate based training.fellrnrHaving a [[Heart Rate Monitor]] that will record your heart rate is particularly valuable for evaluating your training.com/?id=35454X937677&xs=1&xcust=BestWatchFootpod&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.amazon** [[Optical Heart Rate Monitoring]] is more convenient, but does not work very well.com%2FGarmin-Foot-Pod-Retail-Packaging%2Fdp%2FB00264GKVQ Garmin Footpod]** While the chest strap based monitoring is remarkably reliable, you can have problems with chaffing and poor reception in some situations, but there are [[Fixing Heart Rate Monitor Problems|-Fixes for Heart Rate Monitor Problems]]. |Garmin 610||Smaller than the other recommendations* '''Data Upload.||''' The ability to record your workout and store it in a training log such as [[Dailymile]] or [[http://goSportTracks]] is vital.fellrnrAll of the recommended watches here have that ability.com/?id=35454X937677&xs=1&xcust=BestWatch610W&url=http%3A%2F%2FwwwI'd strongly advise even a new runner to store their data so that they can look back over the months and years to understand their progress.amazonA watch that can upload to a PC makes recording your workouts much easier.com%2FGarmin-Forerunner-Touchscreen-Watch-Monitor%2Fdp%2FB004XC3MXI Garmin 610 with HRM]||[http://go* '''Battery Life.fellrnr''' How much battery life you need depends on how long you run for.com/?id=35454X937677&xs=1&xcust=BestWatch610N&url=http%3A%2F%2FwwwIt's best to have a watch that will last quite a bit longer than your longest run.amazonI list the claimed battery life in my table, along with the results of my testing.com%2FGarmin-Forerunner-610-Touchscreen-Watch%2Fdp%2FB004WONCQE Garmin 610 For my tests, I do everything to maximize battery life without HRM]||[http://gocompromising GPS accuracy. That means normal GPS sampling frequency, but no backlight, no map display, and no button presses. I also ensure Bluetooth, WAAS and GLONAS are disabled.fellrnrI don't test devices that I've had for a while, as the battery tends to degrade over time.com/?id=35454X937677&xs=1&xcust=BestWatchHRM&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww* '''Charges On The Run'''.amazonFor ultrarunners, one option to use a watch for longer than the built in battery lasts is to charge the watch while running.com%2FGarmin-Premium-Heart-Monitor-Strap%2Fdp%2FB0029M3NSS Garmin HRM]||[http://goThis involves connecting the cable and carrying a USB battery pack.fellrnrIt's cumbersome, but it can work.com/?id=35454X937677&xs=1&xcust=BestWatchFootpod&url=http%3A%2F%2FwwwA value of "Yes" means that the watch will accept charge while recording and displaying as usual.amazonSome watches have a "yes" with a caveat, such as the display not functioning or difficulty in connecting the cable while wearing the watch.com%2FGarmin-Foot-Pod-Retail-Packaging%2Fdp%2FB00264GKVQ An asterisk after the yes indicates a Garmin device that needs to be set with the USB mode to "Garmin Footpod]" not "Mass Storage". A value of "no" means that charging is impossible. |-|Garmin 910XT||* '''Altimeter. '''An improved version of altimeter will measure the 310XTatmospheric pressure and give you altitude.<br>Better This is more accurate than GPS, but will require calibration to adjust for swimmers & adds an altimeterweather related pressure changes.* '''[[Firstbeat||[http://goTraining Effect]].fellrnr.com/?id=35454X937677&xs=''' This is a measure of how hard a training run is as a numeric value of 1&xcust=BestWatch&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.amazon0 to 5.com%2FGarmin-Forerunner-910XT-GPS-Enabled-Monitor%2Fdp%2FB005T0Z9CU Garmin 910XT with HRM0, based on an analysis of [[Heart Rate Variability]]||[http://go.fellrnr* '''Heart Rate Variability'''.com/?id=35454X937677&xs=1&xcust=BestWatch&url=http%3A%2F%2FwwwThere is a growing interest in the possibility of using [[Heart Rate Variability]] (HRV) to evaluate training stress.amazonWhile only one device will display HRV, there are several that will record HRV for later analysis.com%2FGarmin-Forerunner-910XT-* '''GPSPre-Enabled-Sport%2Fdp%2FB005SPCJ74 Garmin 910XT without HRM]||[http://gocache'''.fellrnrSome newer watches will download the predicted positions of the GPS satellites for faster initial acquisition.com/?id=35454X937677&xs=1&xcust=BestWatchHRM&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.amazon.com%2FGarminThis pre-Premium-Heart-Monitor-Strap%2Fdp%2FB0029M3NSS Garmin HRM]||[http://gocache works remarkably well, and the data is usually downloaded automatically when the watch is connected to the internet.fellrnrHowever, the data is only valid for a few days, so after that time the device will fall back to the usual approach of scanning for satellites.com/?id=35454X937677&xsComparison=1&xcust=BestWatchFootpod&url=http%3A%2F%2FwwwHere's a table of these features for each of the watches I recommend (all have GPS).amazon.com%2FGarmin {{:Best Running Watch-Foot-Pod-Retail-Packaging%2Fdp%2FB00264GKVQ Garmin Footpod]table}}|-=GPS Accuracy=[[File:GPS Accuracy.png|Garmin 205none|thumb|Limited functionality, but cheap||Not available|600px|An infographic of [[http://goGPS Accuracy]] of running watches.fellrnrThe top right corner represents the most accurate watches.com/?id=35454X937677&xs=1&xcust=BestWatch205&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww(This graphic uses ISO 5725 terminology.amazon.com%2FGarmin-Forerunner-Receiver-Sports-Watch%2Fdp%2FB000CSQJ8C Garmin 205)]]||N/A||N/A|-=Using a Smartphone=|}''Main article: [[Running With A Smartphone]]''

 ==What to look for==There are several features to consider when looking for Most smartphones have a runners watch. * GPS provides an easy measure of how far you've run, which is critical for your training. While it is possible to map out a run afterwards, this tends to be tedious built in and is typically less accurate than GPS. ** GPS is easy support various applications that allow them to use and accurate enough for most running, but it is not accurate enough for things like interval trainingfunction as sports watches. ** The errors in GPS average out over a run, but they cause a problem when trying to display current pace. * A [[FootPod]] These phones can be used to provide have remarkable levels of [[Cadence]] and in some watches it can also provide pace and distance. Unlike GPS, [[FootPodAccuracy]]s need to be calibrated to provide accurate pace/distanceas well as many other advantages. * [[Heart Rate]] is important information when training, though it is important to understand the limitations of heart rate based training. Having =Watches for Ultrarunning=Choosing a [[Heart Rate Monitor]] that will record your heart rate is particularly valuable watch for evaluating your trainingan ultramarathon requires some tradeoffs and there's no simple answer. The heart rate strap that goes across your chest can be intrusive and sometimes can chafe. Polar heart rate monitoring main factor is far better than the Garmin equivalent. * The ability to record your workout and store it in a training log such battery life, as [[Dailymile]] or [[SportTracks]] is vital. All of the recommended few watches here have that ability. I'd strongly advise even a new runner to store their data so that they can look back over the months and years be relied on to understand their progress.* An altimeter will measure the atmospheric pressure and give you altitude. This is lost more accurate than 20 hours with GPS, but will require calibration to adjust for weather related pressure changesactive.  ==Garmin Heart Rate Monitoring==The [[Heart Rate Monitor|Heart Rate Monitoring]] of Garmin watches is not as reliable as the Polar systems, but I think there are [[Garmin Heart Rate Monitoring|things to can do three main approaches to improve this]].problem:=The best value - Garmin 310XT=The best value watch for most runners is currently the [http://go.fellrnr.com/?id=35454X937677&xs=1&xcust=BestWatch310W&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.amazon.com%2FGarmin-Forerunner-Waterproof-Running-Monitor%2Fdp%2FB0025VKUPM Garmin 310XT with HRM]. It is available as the # [http://www.rei.com/product/791092/garmin-forerunner-310xt-gps-fitness-monitor 310XT 'Fitness Monitor'] without the [[Heart Rate MonitorCharge On The Run]] for $50 less. The [http://go.fellrnr.com/?id=35454X937677&xs=1&xcust=BestWatch&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.amazon.com%2FGarmin-Forerunner-910XT-GPS-Enabled-Monitor%2Fdp%2FB005T0Z9CU Garmin 910XT] is better, but not worth the extra cost for most runners. [[File:Garmin310XT.jpg|thumb|none|200px|Garmin 310XT]] ==Pros==* The 310XT is one of the most advanced watches available, but This is no harder for a beginner little cumbersome as you typically have to use than most alternativescarry a battery pack and an adapter, or at least have them in your drop bag. (It's easier than the 4xx series Garmin Not all watches.)* The 310XT is great value for money at this price level. * A great feature is the ability to use the optional support [[FootPodCharge On The Run]] to display your current pace while using GPS for overall pace, distance and route. Only the 310XT, 910XT and Garmin 610 can only a subset of them do thisso with reasonable convenience. * The GPS # Use two watches. This is more accurate than earlier watches, also rather inconvenient and has a faster startup time. (It uses the SiRFstar III with Instafixexpensive, one of the latest GPS chipsets)* The housing is fully waterproof (though you may be able to 50m/160ft), so running in the rain is no problem. * Connection use to a PC is wireless, using a USB adapter. This is less hassle cheaper watches rather than any of the other options I've triedone more expensive watch. * The display is big enough to show four readings. I often display current pace, average pace for For the current lapsecond part of your run, average pace for the run second watch won't have your full time and either heart rate or distance. * You can upload courses and display them. This is great when running somewhere unfamiliar. * There are several optional extras for the 310XT, including so you'll need to make a note from the already mentioned [[FootPod]] first watch and heart rate strapdo some math. For cyclists there (Doing math late in an ultra is also a [http://go.fellrnr.com/?id=35454X937677&xs=1&xcust=BestWatch&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.amazon.com%2FGarmin-Speed-Cadence-Bike-Sensor%2Fdp%2FB000BFNOT8 speed/cadence sensor] and as difficult as it works with various power sensorssounds. )* The vibration alert works nicely# Extended battery life. I often run with the 310XT set A number of watches allow you to record a lap every mile, and it will vibrate as well as beep.  ==Cons==* Some people find reduce the 310XT GPS accuracy to be rather large, and it is much larger than a normal watch. * The gain greater battery life is good . This lack of accuracy can be offset by using the Stryd Footpod for about 16-the first part of the race (they claim that Stryd lasts 20 hours, which is enough for most people. Ultrarunners doing 100 mile or longer races will find this a problem, though it ) Another approach is possible to recharge it while in use. * For races where turn the GPS track is not important, you can extend the battery life by turning off the GPS receiver entirely and use the rely on a first generation [[FootPodFootpod]], in which case many watches will last several days. After 12 hours While the accuracy of running I still had 85% of the battery left. If you're running on a reasonable smooth surface, the first gen [[FootPodFootpod]] is often more accurate can be better than GPS.  =The Best – Garmin 910XT=The [http://go.fellrnr.com/?id=35454X937677&xs=1&xcust=BestWatch&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.amazon.com%2FGarmin-Forerunner-910XT-GPS-Enabled-Monitor%2Fdp%2FB005T0Z9CU Garmin 910XT with HRM] is an improved version of , the 310XT, but it's about $100 more expensive. It can record laps when swimming, and is better at recording altitude, and it's recommended Footpod does not do so well if you need those features. If you don't need them, then the 310XT is better value. (It's available without the re taking [[Heart Rate MonitorWalking Breaks]] as [http://goor running on twisty single track.fellrnrAnd some runners will want navigation.com/?id=35454X937677&xs=1&xcust=BestWatch&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.amazon.com%2FGarmin-Forerunner-910XT-GPS-Enabled-Sport%2Fdp%2FB005SPCJ74 Garmin 910XT without HRM].) Nearly all of the pros and cons of the 310XT apply I see three main approaches to the 910XTI wish I could provide, simple, so I won't repeat them here. [[File:Garmin-910xt.jpg|thumb|none|200px|Garmin 910XT]] ==Pros==* The 910XT can record swimmingclear cut advice, but it does this with an accelerometer rather than GPSunfortunately things are not so easy. You have 'll need to tell the 910XT think about how long the pool is, but it will detect each lap, as well as your stroke. * The 910XT has a barometric altimeter, which is far more accurate at recording altitude changes than GPS. ==Cons==* The biggest downside you'll be running for most people is the price, which is $100 more than the 310XT.* While the 910XT is slightly slimmer than the 310XT, it is still rather largefeatures that are important to you, and it is how much larger than a normal watchcompromise you can live with.  =Smaller – Garmin 610=The [http[File://go.fellrnr.com/?id=35454X937677&xs=1&xcust=BestWatch610W&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.amazon.com%2FGarmin-Forerunner-Touchscreen-WatchCharge On The Run -Monitor%2Fdp%2FB004XC3MXI Garmin 610 with HRM] is a new watch from Garmin that is smaller, but overcomes many of the issues seen in the 4xx range Fenix3 (see below2). [[File:Garmin610.jpg|center|thumb|none|200px|Garmin 610[[Charge On The Run]] is an option for ultras.]] ==ProsBattery Life==* Smaller than The claimed battery lives don't hold up in the 310XT/305/205 and closer to the size of a traditional watchreal world, with some watches going longer, others much shorter. * Like If you want the 310XTmaximum battery life, it can use you have to avoid the optional [[FootPod]] to display your current pace while using GPS for overall pacebacklight, distance and route. Only the 310XTuse of map/course displays, 910XT and 610 can do this (so far)don't press the buttons unless you have to. * The touchscreen interface works with gloves and in the rainIn my testing, unlike most touchscreens found on phones or media players. * Good GPS accuracy (uses the SiRF SiRFstarIV with the Instant Fix II) ==Cons==* The longest battery life that's available with GPS on is rather short. It is claimed to provide 8 30 hours, but based on experience with other Garmin devices, the actual live may be quite a bit less. This is likely to cause an issue for slower marathon runners or ultrarunners. * The price is quite high, listing at $350 or $400 including the heart rate monitor. * Not the range of accessories that the 910XT/310XT has, such as power meter for cycling. * No display of course maps.  =Cheaper - Garmin 205=The [http://go.fellrnr.com/?id=35454X937677&xs=1&xcust=BestWatch305&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.amazon.com%2FGarmin-Forerunner-Receiver-Heart[Epson SF-Monitor%2Fdp%2FB000CSWCQA Garmin 305510] and the [http://go.fellrnr.com/?id=35454X937677&xs=1&xcust=BestWatch205&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.amazon.com%2FGarmin-Forerunner-Receiver-Sports-Watch%2Fdp%2FB000CSQJ8C Garmin 205] are the predecessors to the 310XT and are quite similar in a number of ways. The 305 has a few extra features over the 205, such as 24 hours with the heart rate monitor and support for a [[FootPodPolar V800]]. The 205 is quite cheap, but the 305 is now more expensive than 22 hours with the 310XT and nowhere near as good. [[File:Garmin305.jpg|thumb|none|200px|Garmin 305 Fenix 3]], 19 with 205 on the right]] ==Pros==* The [http://go.fellrnr.com/?id=35454X937677&xs=1&xcust=BestWatch205&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.amazon.com%2FGarmin-Forerunner-Receiver-Sports-Watch%2Fdp%2FB000CSQJ8C [Garmin 205920XT]] is cheap.* Usability, display size and course display are similar to 17 with the 310XT[[Garmin Epix]].  ==Cons==* The battery life is quite a bit shorter For ultras lasting less than the 310XT (6-10 20 hours), though still good enough for many runners. * The GPS is not such as accurate 50 miles or as fast as the 310XT100 Km, you have plenty of choice and battery life should not constrain you too much. * They're not fully waterproof, but I never had For 24 hour races or 100 mile races where you expect a problem finish in the rain. * The 205 does not work as a 24-30 hour range the [[Heart Rate MonitorEpson SF-510]], something I believe is importantworth considering though the battery life is one of its few good points. =If you need Heart Rate Variability – Polar RS800CX=Navigation==[[File:PolarRS800CX.jpg|thumb|none|200px|Polar RS800CX]]I used Polar systems for many years For some ultras (and their quality shorter trail runs), navigation is greata problem. However, I find 've been lost on the convenience of the Garmin GPS systems to be superior occasional race and I would no longer recommend the [http://go.fellrnr.com/?id=35454X937677&xs=1&xcust=BestWatchRS800&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.amazon.com%2FPolar-RS800CX-Heart-Rate-Monitor%2Fdp%2FB003G3YBR6 Polar RS800CX] unless you need it's a first rate [Heart Rate Monitor]] that will display [[Heart Rate Variability]]horrible experience.  ==Pros==* Heart rate monitoring is far better than with Garmin. The RS800CX will even record each individual heart beat for analyzing [[Heart Rate Variability]]Even when I've been on course, though few people will ever make use the doubts and stress of that feature. * The battery life of the RS800CX is measured in months not hours. This should not worrying can be an issue for most runnersenormous drain.* The RS800CX is My first GPS watch was purchased so that I'd have an outline of the size of a conventional watch, course I was running and because there were many races where I was glad of its comforting conformation. Remember that using the long navigation features of these watches will dramatically reduce their battery life, it can be used as one.* Includes a barometer for altitude (GPS has very poor accuracy for altitude). * There is a Polar The [[FootPodGarmin Fenix 5X]], and the [http://go.fellrnr.com/?id=35454X937677&xs=1&xcust=BestWatchS3P&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.amazon.com%2FPolar-91039283-S3-Stride-Sensor%2Fdp%2FB005RXZ1YU Polar S3+ Stride Sensor[Garmin Epix]]have a display that shows full color maps, which works nearly as well as the Garmin equivalentso for navigation, but it's larger and more expensivenothing else comes close. * Fully waterproof. ==Cons==* It's Expensive at around $370.* While (Well, the RS800CX can support GPS, it requires [http://go.fellrnr.com/?id=35454X937677&xs=1&xcust=BestWatchGPS5&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.amazon.com%2FPolar-G5-GPS-Sensor-Set%2Fdp%2FB005F5J3JY an add-on GPS box[Leikr]] you strap to your armis even better, which is a rather poor solution. The GPS but it has a short battery life of only 20 hours and requires recharging. ) * There is no display of course maps.* This is a The [[Heart Rate MonitorGarmin 310XT]] and it objects if you try to use it without the monitor., [[File:PolarG3.jpg|thumb|none|200px|The rather clunky GPS and arm bandGarmin 910XT]] =Not Recommended - Garmin 405/405CX/410=The Garmin 4xx series watches use a touch sensitive bezel which does not work well with gloves or when wet. The , [[http://go.fellrnr.com/?id=35454X937677&xs=1&xcust=BestWatchG410&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.amazon.com%2FGarmin-Forerunner-GPS-Enabled-Sports-Watch%2Fdp%2FB0046BWRUK Garmin 410920XT]] has an 'improved bezel', but there are [http://www.dcrainmaker.com/2011/01/look-at-new-garmin-fr410-touch-bezel.html still problems[Garmin Fenix 3]]. I also see more people struggling at the start of marathons with the 4xx watches than all the other devices combined. =Not Recommended - Nike+ Sportwatch=There is a lot to like about the Nike+ Sportwatch, but it has one weakness that I believe is unacceptable. The software for the Nike+ does not allow you to use the data from your runs in anything other than the Nike web site. A [[The importance of a training log|training log is importantSuunto Spartan Ultra]], will show an outline of your run (breadcrumbs) and while beginners may not need one, buying a watch that prevents allow you from accessing your data in the future is too limiting. If you're still interested, have to load a read of [http://www.dcrainmaker.com/2011/04/nike-sportwatch-gps-in-depth-review.html DC Rainmaker's review]course outline to follow.