8,108
edits
Changes
m
A good running watch can provide valuable information while you run{{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 well as automating your [[The importance of a training log|training log]]point in time reference. This article is The "what to look for in a concise guide to the best running watches available today at differing prices. It does not attempt to cover every watch on " remains valid and I'd recommend understanding the market, but it does call out some to avoid. __NOTOC__=Summary=This is a summary limitations of my recommendationsGPS for running. {| class="wikitable"! Watch! Recommendation Reason! With Heart Rate Monitor! Without Heart Rate Monitor! Accessory Heart Rate Monitor! Footpod|-| Motorola Motoactv| If you can live with the flaws, itI's cheap and brilliant.| Not available as a package| d recommend checking out [httphttps://go.fellrnrthewirecutter.com/?id=35454X937677&xs=1&xcust=BestWatchMoto&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.amazon.com%2FMotorolareviews/best-MOTOACTVrunning-Sports-Watch-Player%2Fdp%2FB007C1KKW8 Motoactvwatch] for a fairly unbiased opinion, but you should read [[Stryd| my review of Stryd footpod]] Varies between $150 as that remains one of the most useful devices for measuring pace and $250| [http://godistance.fellrnrI would suggest avoiding "pseudo-marketing" sites that proport to being detailed reviews without providing any critical thinking.com/?id=35454X937677&xs=1&xcust=BestWatchHRM&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.amazonA good litmus test is to check what they say about [[GPS Accuracy]] – if they say "it's all good" then you'll know it's just marketing.com%2FGarmin-Premium-Heart-Monitor-Strap%2Fdp%2FB0029M3NSS Garmin HRM]| [http[File://goBest Watch.fellrnr.com/?id=35454X937677&xs=1&xcust=BestWatchFootpod&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.amazon.com%2FGarmin-Foot-Pod-Retail-Packaging%2Fdp%2FB00264GKVQ Garmin Footpod]png|center|-thumb| Garmin 310XT400px| The best This flowchart is a simple guide to finding the right watch<span style='color:#FF0000'> </span>for nearly every runneryou.| [http://goUse it as a starting point, and read the detailed reviews to understand if a watch is really right for you.fellrnr(Click for a larger version.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)]]$250| [http://go.fellrnr.com/?id=35454X937677&xsWhat to Look for in a Running Watch=1&xcust=BestWatch310N&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.amazonA 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.com%2FGarmin-Forerunner-310XT-Waterproof-Running%2Fdp%2FB0025VKW5K Garmin 310XT without HRM]$215| * '''How far did I run?''' This is probably the key feature that most runners are looking for, and it requires good [[http://goGPS Accuracy]].fellrnrHow much the accuracy of a watch will impact your running will depend on the course.com/?id=35454X937677&xs=1&xcust=BestWatchHRM&url=http%3A%2F%2FwwwOverall, most watches do pretty well in straight lines, but suffer when things get twisty.amazonMy testing is a tough challenge for GPS, so it highlights the differences between the great and the appalling.com%2FGarmin-Premium-Heart-Monitor-Strap%2Fdp%2FB0029M3NSS Garmin HRMWith the advent of the [[Stryd]| [http://go.fellrnr.com/?id=35454X937677&xs=1&xcust=BestWatchFootpod&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.amazon.com%2FGarmin-Foot-Pod-Retail-Packaging%2Fdp%2FB00264GKVQ Garmin Footpod]|-| Garmin 610| Smaller footpod that's far more accurate than GPS and doesn't require any calibration, Stryd support is now more important than the other recommendationsGPS accuracy.| [http://go.fellrnr.com/* '''How fast am I running?id=35454X937677&xs=1&xcust=BestWatch610W&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww''' 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.amazon.com%2FGarmin-Forerunner-Touchscreen-Watch-Monitor%2Fdp%2FB004XC3MXI Garmin 610 with HRMUnfortunately, GPS is rather poor at answering this question, so you need a [[Stryd]]$400| footpod, or use [[http://go.fellrnr.com/?id=35454X937677&xs=1&xcust=BestWatch610N&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.amazon.com%2FGarminPace From A Footpod]] and a first-Forerunner-610-Touchscreen-Watch%2Fdp%2FB004WONCQE Garmin 610 without HRM]$350| generation [http://go.fellrnr.com/?id=35454X937677&xs=1&xcust=BestWatchHRM&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.amazon.com%2FGarmin-Premium-Heart-Monitor-Strap%2Fdp%2FB0029M3NSS Garmin HRM]| [http://go.fellrnr.com/?id=35454X937677&xs=1&xcust=BestWatchFootpod&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.amazon.com%2FGarmin-Foot-Pod-Retail-Packaging%2Fdp%2FB00264GKVQ Garmin Footpod]|-| Garmin 910XT| ]. An improved version accurate indication of the 310XT.<br>Better your current pace is important for any training program that requires running at a specific pace, and for swimmers & adds an altimetersuccess in racing at many distances.| [http://go.fellrnr.com/* '''Where am I?id=35454X937677&xs=1&xcust=BestWatch&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-910XT-GPS-Enabled-Monitor%2Fdp%2FB005T0Z9CU Garmin 910XT with HRM]$450| * '''What's my cadence? '''A display of [[http://goCadence]] is a critical training tool and newer watches are able to use an internal accelerometer to provide Cadence without any accessories.fellrnr.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]$400| Other watches may need a [http://go.fellrnr.com/?id=35454X937677&xs=1&xcust=BestWatchHRM&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.amazon.com%2FGarmin-Premium-Heart-Monitor-Strap%2Fdp%2FB0029M3NSS Garmin HRM]| [http://go.fellrnr.com/?id=35454X937677&xs=1&xcust=BestWatchFootpod&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.amazon.com%2FGarmin-Foot-Pod-Retail-Packaging%2Fdp%2FB00264GKVQ Garmin Footpod]|-| Soleus 1] or the newer Garmin watches can use the running dynamics heart rate strap.0| Remarkably cheapA Cadence alert will help you stay in the right cadence range, and is a useful feature.| Not supported| [http://go.fellrnr.com/?id=35454X937677&xs=1&xcust=Soleus10&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.amazon.com%2FSoleus-SG001003-Black-Digital-Multi-Function%2Fdp%2FB005NGTO8A Soleus 1.0]$75| Not supported| Not supported|}=What to look for=There are several additional features to you could consider when looking for a runners watch, though I'd argue none are as important as the above questions. * '''GPSWeight.''' GPS provides an easy measure None of how far you've run, which is critical for your training. While it is possible these devices weigh enough to map out have a run afterwardsnoticeable impact on running performance, this tends to but the weight can be tedious and is typically less accurate than GPSnoticeable. ** GPS is easy to use '''Size.''' The size of these devices varies widely, and accurate enough for most runningthe larger devices can feel a little bulky, but it is not accurate enough for things like interval trainingespecially if you have a smaller wrist. ** The errors I've provided the size as the volume in GPS average out over cubic centimeters to give a run, but they cause a problem when trying single number to display current pacecompare.
* '''Current pace from a [[Footpod]].''' A [[Footpod]] can be used to provide [[Cadence]] and in some watches it can also provide pace and distance. Unlike GPS, [[Footpod]]s need to be calibrated to provide accurate pace/distance. * '''[[Heart Rate Monitor]].''' [[Heart Rate]] is important information when training, though it is important to understand the limitations of heart rate based training. Having a [[Heart Rate Monitor]] that will record your heart rate is particularly valuable for evaluating your training. The heart rate ** [[Optical Heart Rate Monitoring]] is more convenient, but does not work very well. ** While the chest strap that goes across your chest based monitoring is remarkably reliable, you can be intrusive have problems with chaffing and sometimes can chafepoor reception in some situations, but there are [[Fixing Heart Rate Monitor Problems| Fixes for Heart Rate Monitor Problems]].
Here* '''s a table of these features foe each of the watches I recommend (all have GPS). {| class="wikitable"! Watch! Waterproofing! Pace from FootPod! Heart Rate Monitor! Data Upload! Battery Life! Altimeter|-| Motorola Motoactv| Water resistant with care| No| Yes| Limited| Poor (3-6hr)| No|-| Garmin 310XT| Yes| Yes| Yes| Yes| Good (20hr)| No|-| Garmin 610| Yes| Yes| Yes| Yes| Fair (8hr)| No|-| Garmin 910XT| Yes| Yes| Yes| Yes| Good (20hr)| Yes|-| Soleus 1.0| Yes| No| No| No| Fair (8hr)| No|}==Garmin Heart Rate Monitoring==The [[Heart Rate Monitor|Heart Rate Monitoring]] of Garmin watches is not as reliable as the Polar systems, but there are [[Garmin Heart Rate MonitoringFirstbeat|things to can do to improve thisTraining Effect]].=Brilliant, but flawed – Motorola Motoactv=The Motorola [http://go.fellrnr.com/?id=35454X937677&xs=1&xcust=BestWatchMoto&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.amazon.com%2FMotorola-MOTOACTV-Sports-Watch-Player%2Fdp%2FB007C1KKW8 Motoactv] ''' This is a revolutionary running watch, using measure of how hard a color touch screen, GPS and including an MP3 player. It training run is more like as a smartphone than a traditional GPS watch, the Motoactv is brilliant, but it is also flawed. When it was originally introduced at $250, these flaws were too severe for it to compete with the Garmin alternatives. The price numeric value of the Motoactv tends to vary, but it is often available for under $150, and at that price the Motoactv is worthy of consideration1. If you can live with each of these four flaws, then the Motoactv is a great buy. (See the cons section for more details on each.)* '''Poor water resistance. '''Don't buy the Motoactv is you want 0 to swim or if you're likely to forget to check the covers before your run5.* '''Limited battery life. '''If you run for less than 3 hours0, you're fine with the Motoactv. If you run for between 3 and 6 hours then think carefully. If you run for more than 6 hours, look elsewhere. * '''No usable 'current pace' display.''' Don't try to use the Motoactv to keep you based on pacean analysis of [[Heart Rate Variability]].* '''Difficulty uploading workouts to a training log.Heart Rate Variability''' If you want to keep an automated training log (and you should), the Motoactv will be hard work. {| class="wikitable" |- valign="top"|[[File:Motoactv.jpeg|none|thumb|200px|The Motoactv with the watch strap (it's available as with There is a clip instead).]]|[[File:MotoactvCovers.JPG|none|thumb|200px|The covers for the USB port and the headphones have to be growing interest in place for waterproofing. The headphone socket cover is tiny and easy to lose.]]|[[File:MotoactvGarminDisplay.JPG|none|thumb|200px|The display of the Motoactv is wonderful at night. This comparison with the 310XT gives some idea possibility of the difference, but this is with the 310XT illuminated, which only lasts a few seconds.]]|}==Motoactv Pros==* With the recent price reduction the Motoactv is less than $150, which is far cheaper than any comparable product. * The Motoactv is easy to use, and my family prefers using the Motoactv over Garmin products. * The color display is nice, and the simple monochrome display of other devices seems stale and dated by comparison. * The combination of a touch screen and physical buttons works quite well. The screen works when wet, though I found some occasional problems when there was just a drop of sweat rather than a soaking. I also found that heavy rain drops may act as screen presses, which is annoying. * I love having a continually lit display for [[Running in the DarkHeart Rate Variability]]. You can press a button on a Garmin (HRV) to illuminate the display, but the Motoactv is much betterevaluate training stress. * The inclusion of an MP3 player is nice, and it claims to learn what songs make your run harder. Personally I prefer using a separate MP3 player, but having the While only one device that does both has some appeal. * The Motoactv will display a true map of the area, showing the street layout, which is a huge improvement over the breadcrumb display of the Garmin watches. If you could upload a route then this would be great for running in a new city. * The dimensions of the Motoactv are more pleasing than the Garmin 310XT/910XT. It still has a large display, but it is much thinner. ==Motoactv Cons==* The Motoactv is 'water resistant' not waterproof. There are many reports of water damage and Motorola refusing to repair them. HoweverHRV, there are also many reports of using the Motoactv in torrential rain, which I've done myself. I suspect the issue is several that the Motoactv has small covers will record HRV for the headphone jack and the USB port, and if they are not in place, water can get in and destroy the watchlater analysis. * The battery life of the Motoactv is quite poor compared with other devices. If you use Bluetooth headphones and use the default setting the battery is dead in 3 hours. With no Bluetooth and the 'extended battery' setting it should last for 6 hours. This is probably plenty for most runners, but you have to remember to keep it plugged in, as the battery seems to drain faster than I would expect. * Like any 'GPS watch, the display of your current pace varies too much to be of any use. This is an intrinsic problem with GPS, and I found the Motoactv was out by up to a minute/mile. This is why I recommend the Garmin 310XT/910XT/610 as they can display your current pace from the [[Footpod]] while still using the GPS for everything else. You can use the Pre-cache'lap average pace' to get a reasonable idea of your pace, but if you need to hit a specific pace for a training run or a race, you're better off with one of the Garmin 310XT/910XT/610 and a [[Footpod]].* The Motoactv Some newer watches will upload your workout to Motoactv.com via a wireless network, so you don't even need a PC, which is a great idea. The problem is that it's hard to upload your workouts to any other training log. You can download each workout as a CSV file and upload it to another tool, but that sometimes requires going via a conversion program. * The Motoactv will support a [[Footpod]], including the [http://go.fellrnr.com/?id=35454X937677&xs=1&xcust=BestWatchFootpod&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.amazon.com%2FGarmin-Foot-Pod-Retail-Packaging%2Fdp%2FB00264GKVQ Garmin FootPod], and it can use the FootPod to show your pace/distance. This only works if you select to run outdoors, which turns the GPS off. The bigger problem is that there is no way predicted positions of calibrating the Foodpod, so there is usually an error (for me it was out by 7%). The Motoactv does have an internal sensor that can be calibrated, but this does not work for the FoodPod. The Motoactv will use the FootPod to display your [[Cadence]], but I found the Cadence display to vary widely; my Garmin would show a steady cadence value when the Motoactv was swinging widely. =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 Monitor]] 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]]==310XT Pros==* The 310XT is one of the most advanced watches available, but is no harder satellites for a beginner to use than most alternatives. (It's easier than the 4xx series Garmin watches.)* The 310XT is great value for money at this price level. * A great feature is the ability to use the optional [[Footpod]] to display your current pace while using GPS for overall pace, distance and route. Only the 310XT, 910XT and Garmin 610 can do this. * The GPS is more accurate than earlier watches, and has a faster startup time. * The housing is fully waterproof (to 50m/160ft), so running in the rain is no problem. * Connection to a PC is wireless, using a USB adapterinitial acquisition. This is less hassle than any of the other options I've tried. * The display is big enough to show four readings. I often display current pace, average pace for the current lap, average pace for the run 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 the already mentioned [[Footpod]] and heart rate strap. For cyclists there is also a [http://go.fellrnr.com/?id=35454X937677&xs=1&xcust=BestWatch&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.amazon.com%2FGarmin-Speed-Cadencepre-Bike-Sensor%2Fdp%2FB000BFNOT8 speed/cadence sensor] and it works with various power sensors. * The vibration alert cache works nicely. I often run with the 310XT set to record a lap every mile, and it will vibrate as remarkably well as beep. ==310XT Cons==* Some people find the 310XT to be rather large, and it is much larger than a normal watch. * The battery life is good for about 16-20 hours, which is enough for most people. Ultrarunners doing 100 mile or longer races will find this a problem, though it is possible to recharge it while in use. * For races where the GPS track data is not important, you can extend the battery life by turning off the GPS receiver and use the [[Footpod]]. After 12 hours of running I still had 85% of the battery left. If you're running on a reasonable smooth surface, the [[Footpod]] is often more accurate 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 usually downloaded automatically when swimming, and is better at recording altitude, and it's recommended if you need those features. If you don't need them, then the 310XT watch is better value. (It's available without the [[Heart Rate Monitor]] as [http://go.fellrnr.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 connected to the 910XT, so I won't repeat them hereinternet. [[File:Garmin-910xt.jpg|thumb|none|200px|Garmin 910XT]]==910XT Pros==* The 910XT can record swimmingHowever, but it does this with an accelerometer rather than GPS. You have to tell the 910XT how long the pool data is, but it will detect each lap, as well as your stroke. * The 910XT has only valid for a barometric altimeterfew days, which is far more accurate at recording altitude changes than GPS.==910XT Cons==* The biggest downside 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 large, and it is much larger than a normal watch. =Smaller – Garmin 610=The [http://go.fellrnr.com/?id=35454X937677&xs=1&xcust=BestWatch610W&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.amazon.com%2FGarmin-Forerunner-Touchscreen-Watch-Monitor%2Fdp%2FB004XC3MXI Garmin 610 with HRM] is a new watch from Garmin so after that is smaller, but overcomes many of time the issues seen in the 4xx range (see below). [[File:Garmin610.jpg|thumb|none|200px|Garmin 610]]==610 Pros==* Smaller than the 310XT/305/205 and closer device will fall back to the size usual approach of a traditional watch. * Like the 310XT, it can use the optional [[Footpod]] to display your current pace while using GPS scanning for overall pace, distance and route. Only the 310XT, 910XT and 610 can do this (so far)satellites. * The touchscreen interface works with gloves and in the rain, unlike most touchscreens found on phones or media players. * Good GPS accuracy (uses the SiRF SiRFstarIV with the Instant Fix II)==610 Cons=Comparison=* The battery life is rather short. It is claimed to provide 8 hours, but based on experience with other Garmin devices, the actual live may be quite Here's 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 table of accessories that the 910XT/310XT has, such as power meter these features for cycling. * No display each of course maps. =The Cheapest – Soleus 1.0=[[File:Soleus10.jpg|none|thumb|200px|The Soleus 1.0]]The [http://go.fellrnr.com/?id=35454X937677&xs=1&xcust=Soleus10&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.amazon.com%2FSoleus-SG001003-Black-Digital-Multi-Function%2Fdp%2FB005NGTO8A Soleus 1.0] is one of the cheapest on the market at $75 (list $99), and while it has some significant limitations, it is basically functional. The [http://go.fellrnr.com/?id=35454X937677&xs=1&xcust=GarminFR10&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.amazon.com%2FGarmin-Forerunner-GPS-Watch-Black%2Fdp%2FB0090C7A5M Garmin FR10] is the cheapest Garmin GPS watch, but at $130 it's nearly twice the price of the Soleus 1.0. (There are other GPS watches by Soleus that have better functionality, but their price makes them unattractive when compared with the other watches here.)==Soleus 1.0 Pros==* The big attraction of the Soleus 1.0 is the price, which is half that of the next cheapest watch I'd recommend (the Motoactvall have GPS). * This is a smaller watch, similar in size to the Garmin 610.{{:Best Running Watch-table}}==Soleus 1.0 Cons==* There is no upload of data to a PC (which also means no firmware updates).* No support for a [[Heart Rate Monitor]] or a [[Footpod]].* The claimed battery life is 8 hours, which is a little short. However, I've read reports of people getting longer battery life. * The initial acquisition of the GPS satellites is slower than the better watches like the 310XT/910XT. =If you need Heart Rate Variability – Polar RS800CXAccuracy=[[File:PolarRS800CXGPS Accuracy.jpgpng|none|thumb|none|200px600px|Polar RS800CX]]I used Polar systems for many years and their quality is great. However, I find the convenience An infographic of the Garmin GPS systems to be superior 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 a first rate [[Heart Rate MonitorGPS Accuracy]] that will display [[Heart Rate Variability]]. ==RS800CX Pros==* Heart rate monitoring is far better than with Garmin. The RS800CX will even record each individual heart beat for analyzing [[Heart Rate Variability]], though few people will ever make use of that featurerunning watches. * The battery life of top right corner represents the RS800CX is measured in months not hours. This should not be an issue for most runners.* The RS800CX is the size of a conventional watch, and because of the long battery life, it can be used as oneaccurate watches.* Includes a barometer for altitude (GPS has very poor accuracy for altitude). * There is a Polar [[Footpod]], 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], which works nearly as well as the Garmin equivalent, but it's larger and more expensive. * Fully waterproof.==RS800CX Cons==* It's Expensive at around $370.* While 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] you strap to your arm, which is a rather poor solution. The GPS has a battery life of only 20 hours and requires recharging. * There is no display of course maps.* This is a [[Heart Rate Monitor]] and it objects if you try to use it without the monitorgraphic uses ISO 5725 terminology.[[File:PolarG3.jpg|thumb|none|200px|The rather clunky GPS and arm band)]]
comment: batch update
* '''Waterproofing.''' Even if you don't swim, having good waterproofing is important to prevent your watch being destroyed by the rain or sweat.
* '''Data Upload.''' The ability to record your workout and store it in a training log such as [[Dailymile]] or [[SportTracks]] is vital. All of the recommended 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 to understand their progress. A watch that can upload to a PC makes recording your workouts much easier.
* '''Battery Life.''' How much battery life you need depends on how long you run for. It's best to have a watch that will last quite a bit longer than your longest run. I list the claimed battery life in my table, along with the results of my testing. For my tests, I do everything to maximize battery life without compromising 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. I don't test devices that I've had for a while, as the battery tends to degrade over time. * '''Charges On The Run'''. For ultrarunners, one option to use a watch for longer than the built in battery lasts is to charge the watch while running. This involves connecting the cable and carrying a USB battery pack. It's cumbersome, but it can work. A value of "Yes" means that the watch will accept charge while recording and displaying as usual. Some watches have a "yes" with a caveat, such as the display not functioning or difficulty in connecting the cable while wearing the watch. An asterisk after the yes indicates a Garmin device that needs to be set with the USB mode to "Garmin" not "Mass Storage". A value of "no" means that charging is impossible.
* '''Altimeter. '''An altimeter will measure the atmospheric pressure and give you altitude. This is more accurate than GPS, but will require calibration to adjust for weather related pressure changes.
=Using a Smartphone=
''Main article: [[Running With A Smartphone]]'' Most smartphones have a GPS built in and support various applications that allow them to function as sports watches. These phones can have remarkable levels of [[GPS Accuracy]] as well as many other advantages. ==Smartphone Pros=Watches for Ultrarunning=* If you already have Choosing a smartphonewatch for an ultramarathon requires some tradeoffs and there's no simple answer. The main factor is battery life, as few watches can be relied on to lost more than 20 hours with GPS active. I think there are three main approaches to this problem:# [[Charge On The Run]]. This is the cheapest option.* Carrying a phone allows little cumbersome as you typically have to carry a battery pack and an adapter, or at least have them in your drop bag. Not all watches support [[Running Safety| call for helpCharge On The Run]], and only a subset of them do so with reasonable convenience.* You # Use two watches. This is also rather inconvenient and expensive, though you may be able to use to cheaper watches rather than one more expensive watch. For the second part of your run, the second watch won't have your full time and distance, so you'll need to make a note from the smartphone first watch and do some math. (Doing math late in an ultra is as difficult as an MP3 playerit sounds.)* It # Extended battery life. A number of watches allow you to reduce the GPS accuracy to gain greater battery life. This lack of accuracy can be offset by using the Stryd Footpod for the first part of the race (they claim that Stryd lasts 20 hours.) Another approach is possible to use turn the GPS off entirely and rely on a first generation [[Heart Rate MonitorFootpod]] or even , in which case many watches will last several days. While the accuracy of a first gen [[Footpod]] with a smartphone. ** The can be better than GPS, the Footpod does not do so well if you're taking [[http://go.fellrnr.com/?id=35454X937677&xs=1&xcust=PolarH7&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.amazon.com%2FPolar-Bluetooth-Smart-Heart-Sensor%2Fdp%2FB007S088F4 Polar H7 heart rate monitorWalking Breaks]] works with iPhone 4S/5 for $63or running on twisty single track. This And some runners will work with RunKeeperwant navigation. I see three main approaches to I wish I could provide, MapMyRun(+)simple, EndoMondo (Pro)clear cut advice, Runmeter, and others. (Android phones but unfortunately things are not supportedso easy.)** The [http://go.fellrnr.com/?id=35454X937677&xs=1&xcust=Wahoo&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.amazon.com%2FWahoo-Fitness-WFFisica01-Key-iPhone%2Fdp%2FB0042WGO3Y Wahoo Key] is a $55 dongle You'll need to think about how long you'll be running for, the features that adds Ant+ support are important to an iPhone 4S/4/3GS. This allows you to use the [http://go.fellrnr.com/?id=35454X937677&xs=1&xcust=BestWatchHRM&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.amazon.com%2FGarmin-Premium-Heart-Monitor-Strap%2Fdp%2FB0029M3NSS Garmin HRM], [http://go.fellrnr.com/?id=35454X937677&xs=1&xcust=BestWatchFootpod&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.amazon.com%2FGarmin-Foot-Pod-Retail-Packaging%2Fdp%2FB00264GKVQ Garmin FootPod] and other Ant+ accessories. It works how much compromise you can live with most apps including RunKeeper, MapMyRun(+), EndoMondo (Pro), Runmeter. Note that the dongle may cause problems finding a waterproof case.** The [http://go.fellrnr.com/?id=35454X937677&xs=1&xcust=AntAdapt&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.amazon.com%2FGarmin-Adapter-iPhone-Monitor-Cadence%2Fdp%2FB005ZSYEOK Garmin Ant+ Adapter] is similar to the [httpFile://go.fellrnr.com/?id=35454X937677&xs=1&xcust=Wahoo&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.amazon.com%2FWahoo-Fitness-WFFisica01-Key-iPhone%2Fdp%2FB0042WGO3Y Wahoo Key] but it has limited app support. ** Charge On The [http://go.fellrnr.com/?id=35454X937677&xs=1&xcust=ZephyrHxM&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.amazon.com%2FZephyrRun -HxM-Delivers-BlackBerry-Smartphones%2Fdp%2FB002PL33AQ Zepher HxM] is a $79 Fenix3 (+shipping2) heart rate monitor that works with Android and Blackberry phones.** Some jpg|center|thumb|200px|[[https://support.garminCharge On The Run]] is an option for ultras.com/support/searchSupport/case.faces?caseId=%7bf3027e90-f8de-11e0-73d0-000000000000%7d| Sony Ericsson android phones]] have Ant+ support built in. ==Smartphone ConsBattery Life==* A smartphone is usually bulky and has to be mounted on your upper armThe claimed battery lives don't hold up in the real world, with some watches going longer, making it hard to see the displayothers much shorter.* A smartphone mounted on your arm makes If you a potential target for theftwant the maximum battery life, reducing your [[Running Safety| safety]].* Most touchscreens do not work well with glovesyou have to avoid the backlight, in the rainuse of map/course displays, or with sweaty handsand don't press the buttons unless you have to. * Few smartphones are waterproofIn my testing, so a specialist case will be required to protect it.* The the longest battery life that's available with GPS accuracy of most smartphones on is not as good as 30 hours with the [[Epson SF-510]], 24 hours with the latest GPS watches. =Not Recommended=These watches have flaws or a price point that makes them unattractive. ==Suunto Ambit==The main attraction of [[Polar V800]], 22 hours with the [http://go.fellrnr.com/?id=35454X937677&xs=1&xcust=SuuntoAmbit&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.amazon.com%2FSuunto-Ambit-Watch-Black-Size%2Fdp%2FB006N0LIG6 Suunto Ambit[Garmin Fenix 3]] is it's 50 hour battery life. However, to get 19 with the long battery life you have to select a mode which only takes a GPS fix every 60 seconds GPS fix which gives poor accuracy. Other problems that prevent me from recommending it:* Difficulty in upload [[Garmin 920XT]], and 17 with the data to other software.* No [[FootpodGarmin Epix]].* The big advantage of GPS over a footpod is it will show For ultras lasting less than 20 hours, such as 50 miles or 100 Km, you a map have plenty of where you've been choice and with the Garmin watches, battery life should not constrain you can upload a course to follow. The Ambit does not do that type of displaytoo much.* The price; at $500 there are better options available cheaper. For the same price 24 hour races or 100 mile races where you could buy two 310XTs, three MOTOACTVs, or five Soleus 1.0 watches.==Garmin Fenix==Like expect a finish in the Suunto Ambit, 24-30 hour range the $400 [http://go.fellrnr.com/?id=35454X937677&xs=1&xcust=Fenix&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.amazon.com%2FGarmin[Epson SF-Hiking-Exclusive-Tracback-Feature%2Fdp%2FB008KEPUQC Garmin Fenix510]] claims a 50 hour battery life. However, there are reports that is worth considering though the battery life is much shorter in practiceone of its few good points.==Garmin 405/405CX/410Navigation==The Garmin 4xx series watches use For some ultras (and shorter trail runs), navigation is a touch sensitive bezel which does not work well with gloves or when wetproblem. The [http://goI've been lost on the occasional race and it's a horrible experience.fellrnrEven when I've been on course, the doubts and stress of worrying can be an enormous drain.com/?id=35454X937677&xs=1&xcust=BestWatchG410&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.amazon.com%2FGarmin-Forerunner-My first GPS-Enabled-Sports-Watch%2Fdp%2FB0046BWRUK Garmin 410] has watch was purchased so that I'd have an 'improved bezel', but outline of the course I was running and there are [http://wwwwere many races where I was glad of its comforting conformation.dcrainmaker.com/2011/01/look-at-new-garmin-fr410-touch-bezel.html still problems]. I also see more people struggling at Remember that using the start navigation features of marathons with the 4xx these watches than all the other devices combinedwill dramatically reduce their battery life.==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 [[Garmin Fenix 5X]] and the data from your runs in anything other than the Nike web site. A [[The importance of a training log|training log is importantGarmin Epix]]have a display that shows full color maps, so for navigation, and while beginners may not need onenothing else comes close. (Well, buying a watch that prevents you from accessing your data in the future [[Leikr]] is too limiting. The Motoactv is a far more capable watch than the Nike+even better, though but it too has some flawsa short battery life. ) ==Garmin 305/205==* The 305/205 are the earlier generations of [[Garmin GPS watches310XT]], and occasionally they can be found quite cheap. However[[Garmin 910XT]], with the price drop of the Motoactv[[Garmin 920XT]], these [[Garmin watches no longer offer reasonable value for moneyFenix 3]], [[Suunto Spartan Ultra]] will show an outline of your run (breadcrumbs) and allow you to load a course outline to follow.