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* The [[Garmin 920XT]] can be thought of as a cut down version of the Epix, with slightly better [[GPS Accuracy]], but lacking some of the other features.
* The [[Suunto Ambit2]] and [[Suunto Ambit3]] are both great watches, with excellent [[GPS Accuracy]]. For most runners the cheapest of the range (Ambit 2 R/Ambit 3 Run) are the best choice, but for ultrarunners the extra battery life of the (Ambit 2/Ambit 3 Peak) may be worthwhile.
* The [[Garmin 620]] is a lovely watch, but it's more expensive than the 610 and you can't get your current [[Pace from a From A Footpod]].
* For [[GPS Accuracy]], the [[Polar V800]] is the best, but it falls short in many other areas.
* Consider using a [[Running With A Smartphone| Smartphone]]; if you already have one they are a cheap option and can have outstanding [[GPS Accuracy]].
A modern running watch often has a huge number of features, but I think it's best to focus on its ability to answer these basic questions.
* '''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 tough challenge for GPS, so it highlights the differences between the great and the appalling.
* '''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 [[Pace from a From A Footpod]]. An 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.
* '''Where am I?''' It's not unreasonable to expect a GPS enabled watch to tell you where you are or how to get back to the start. Navigation 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. The Motoactv and Fenix 2 can display preloaded maps showing roads and names, and the Epix shows full color maps.
* '''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 Foodpod 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.