The best smartwatch for running
January 5, 2026
Running is one of the most accessible and popular sports, and smartwatches help make training more effective and engaging. They accurately measure distance, pace, and heart rate, analyze recovery, and even build routes.
The market offers plenty of solid options - from affordable models for beginners to advanced devices for marathon runners and trail athletes. What really matters in running watches is accurate GPS (preferably dual-frequency), a reliable heart rate sensor, battery life of 20-30 hours with GPS, and a lightweight, comfortable case with good water resistance.
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1. Garmin MARQ (Gen 2) Athlete
Garmin MARQ (Gen 2) Athlete feature a titanium case and bezel, while the AMOLED display is protected by curved sapphire glass. The round screen with a 390x390 resolution delivers a sharp image, and built-in TopoActive Europe maps help navigate unfamiliar routes.
The watch supports a wide range of activities - from running and hiking to golf and climbing. PacePro helps control pace, workout animations guide strength training, and support for external sensors like the Running Dynamics Pod improves metrics. The pulse oximeter and sleep tracking provide a complete picture of recovery.
Advantages:
Built-in maps and compass are convenient for running on new trails.
Support for external sensors improves the accuracy of running metrics.
Workout animations help perform strength exercises correctly.
Sapphire glass and titanium ensure durability for everyday wear.
Who it’s for:
Runners who enjoy exploring new routes and trails.
Those who practice cross-training (running plus other activities).
Professionals who need detailed maps and on-wrist analysis.
Specifications:
Titanium case and bezel, weight 85 g, diameter 46 mm
AMOLED display with sapphire glass
Sensors: heart rate, SpO2, altimeter, barometer, compass
GPS (GLONASS, Galileo), NFC, 32 GB internal storage, maps
2. Garmin Tactix 8 51 mm
Garmin Tactix 8 51 mm have a large polymer case with a titanium back cover, and a weight of 67 grams suits those used to substantial watches. The transflective MIP display with 280x280 resolution remains readable in direct sunlight, while Power Sapphire glass protects against scratches.
A wide range of modes covers running, hiking, swimming, and even tactical activities. Dual-band GPS with SatIQ locks onto signal accurately, sensors track heart rate, oxygen, temperature, and depth. The built-in music player stores tracks, and the flashlight lights the way.
Advantages:
The transflective display stays readable in bright sunlight without backlight.
Dual-band GPS with SatIQ ensures accuracy in challenging environments.
Built-in music player lets you listen without a phone.
ECG and thermometer provide extended health insights.
Who it’s for:
People who run on rough or uneven terrain.
Those who need maps, precise GPS, music, and a flashlight on long routes.
Specifications:
Polymer case with titanium back, weight 67 g, diameter 51 mm
Transflective MIP display with Power Sapphire
Sensors: heart rate, SpO2, body temperature, ECG
Dual-band GPS with SatIQ, maps, 32 GB internal storage, flashlight
3. Apple Watch Series 10
Apple Watch Series 10 come with a titanium case and sapphire glass protecting the display. The OLED screen with 416x496 resolution stays bright even in sunlight - peak brightness reaches 2000 nits, while the minimum drops to 1 nit to avoid glare at night.
They include a depth sensor, body temperature sensor, pulse oximeter, and ECG. For running, this means accurate heart rate tracking during workouts, sleep monitoring afterward, and alerts for important health changes. Support for swimming and yoga makes them versatile, and the built-in speaker lets you listen to music directly from the watch.
Advantages:
Titanium case and sapphire glass provide reliable everyday protection.
Bright display with a wide brightness range works well day and night.
Full set of health sensors helps monitor heart rate, blood oxygen, and temperature.
Who it’s for:
iPhone owners looking for a versatile everyday smartwatch.
Runners who combine running with swimming, yoga, or other activities.
Those who want a strong focus on health and recovery (sleep, temperature, ECG).
Specifications:
Titanium case, weight 41.7 g, dimensions 46x39x9.7 mm
OLED display with sapphire glass, brightness up to 2000 nits
Sensors: heart rate, SpO2, body temperature, ECG, depth
GPS, NFC, 64 GB internal storage, 4G support
4. Apple Watch Ultra 2
Apple Watch Ultra 2 stand out with a rugged titanium case and enhanced impact protection meeting the MIL-STD 810H standard. The OLED display reaches up to 3000 nits of peak brightness, making data easy to read in bright sunlight, while dual speakers and an 86 dB siren add safety on long routes.
They include a thermometer for measuring water and body temperature, a pulse oximeter, ECG, and the Oceanic+ diving app. For runners, this is useful across different conditions - from city runs to trail routes. The case handles deeper immersion, and sensors accurately track heart rate and elevation.
Advantages:
Shock resistance and IP68 protection suit active outdoor use.
Extremely bright display remains readable in any lighting.
Siren and dual speakers help in emergency situations.
Advanced temperature and depth sensors are useful for mixed training.
Who it’s for:
Those who run on rough terrain.
People who combine running with swimming or other demanding activities and need extra durability.
Specifications:
Titanium case, weight 61.4 g, dimensions 49x44x14.4 mm
OLED display, brightness up to 3000 nits
Sensors: heart rate, SpO2, body and water temperature, ECG
GPS, NFC, 64 GB internal storage, 4G support, 86 dB siren
5. Huawei Watch 4 Pro
Huawei Watch 4 Pro feature a titanium case and sapphire glass covering the AMOLED display with a 466x466 resolution. At 65 grams, they feel solid on the wrist without being distracting, and eSIM support allows you to leave your phone behind while staying connected.
Over 100 sports modes include running, swimming, and hiking. Sensors track heart rate, blood oxygen, temperature, and even perform ECG readings, helping spot changes during or after runs. The built-in 32 GB storage provides space for music so you can listen during workouts.
Advantages:
Titanium case and sapphire glass withstand daily use without scratches.
eSIM support simplifies communication without a smartphone.
ECG and thermometer add real-time health monitoring.
32 GB of storage lets you keep music for running sessions.
Who it’s for:
People who run without carrying a phone.
Those who want independent connectivity.
Anyone who needs detailed metrics like ECG during workouts.
Specifications:
Titanium case, weight 65 g, dimensions 47.6x47.6x12.9 mm
Round AMOLED display with sapphire glass
Sensors: heart rate, SpO2, temperature, ECG
GPS, NFC, eSIM support
6. Samsung Galaxy Watch Ultra 2025
Samsung Galaxy Watch Ultra 2025 feature a titanium case and sapphire glass over a round AMOLED display with a 480x480 resolution. The 10 ATM water resistance allows deeper dives, while impact resistance adds confidence during active movement.
They include a blood pressure monitor, body thermometer, pulse oximeter, and ECG. More than 100 sports modes cover running, cycling, swimming, and more. Sensors accurately track heart rate during interval training, and sleep tracking helps plan recovery.
Pros:
High 10 ATM water resistance is suitable for swimming and running in the rain.
The blood pressure monitor allows you to check pressure directly on the wrist.
A wide selection of sports modes makes it easy to switch between activities.
The durable case with sapphire glass withstands accidental impacts.
Who it’s for:
Android users.
People who run, swim, or practice multiple sports and want to measure blood pressure along with standard running metrics.
Specifications:
Titanium case, weight 60.5 g, dimensions 47.4x47.1x12.1 mm
AMOLED display with sapphire glass
Sensors: heart rate, SpO2, body temperature, ECG, blood pressure
GPS (GLONASS, Galileo, BeiDou), NFC, 64 GB internal storage
7. Google Pixel Watch 3 45mm
Google Pixel Watch 3 45mm have an aluminum case and weigh 37 grams, making them comfortable on the wrist. The AMOLED display with a 456x456 resolution and peak brightness of 2000 nits remains visible in sunlight, while Gorilla Glass 5 protects against everyday scratches.
More than 40 activity modes include running, cycling, and swimming. Sensors measure heart rate, oxygen levels, body temperature, and even perform ECG readings, helping better understand how the body responds to training. Multi-band GPS accurately maps routes.
Advantages:
2000 nits of brightness keep the display readable on sunny days.
ECG and a thermometer provide additional health data during runs.
Multi-band GPS improves tracking accuracy in urban environments.
Gorilla Glass 5 protection withstands accidental contact.
Who it’s for:
Android users.
People who want detailed health measurements like ECG and temperature alongside running metrics.
Specifications:
Aluminum case, weight 37 g
AMOLED display with Gorilla Glass 5, brightness up to 2000 nits
Multi-band GPS
Sensors: heart rate, SpO2, body temperature, ECG
32 GB internal storage
8. Xiaomi Watch S1 Active
Xiaomi Watch S1 Active weigh just 36 grams thanks to a plastic case, making them barely noticeable even after an hour of running. The AMOLED display with a 466x466 resolution shows vivid colors, and 5 ATM water resistance means you do not need to remove the watch in the rain.
Modes cover running, swimming, cycling, and yoga. The heart rate sensor and pulse oximeter track effort in real time, while sleep tracking gives insight into recovery. A built-in microphone allows you to answer calls without a phone.
Advantages:
The 36 gram weight ensures comfort on long runs.
5 ATM water resistance is suitable for running in any weather.
The pulse oximeter helps monitor oxygen saturation during intense sessions.
Hands-free calling makes communication easier on the move.
Who it’s for:
Those looking for lightweight watches for daily runs, swimming, and rainy walks.
People who need basic heart rate monitoring.
Anyone who leaves the phone at home but still wants the ability to make calls.
Specifications:
Plastic case, dimensions 46.3x47x11.5 mm
Round AMOLED display
Sensors: heart rate, SpO2
GPS, NFC, 5 ATM water resistance
9. OnePlus Watch 3
OnePlus Watch 3 have a stainless steel case with a titanium bezel, and a weight of around 50 grams feels solid on the wrist. The AMOLED display with a 466x466 resolution and brightness up to 2200 nits remains readable even in direct sunlight.
Dual-band GPS locks onto signal quickly and tracks routes accurately. More than 100 activity modes include running and other workouts, while sensors measure heart rate, oxygen, temperature, and stress. The built-in 32 GB storage is enough for music during runs.
Advantages:
2200 nits of brightness keep data visible in sunny conditions.
Dual-band GPS improves tracking accuracy in cities or forests.
Stress and temperature tracking help monitor overall condition.
The MIL-STD-810H rated case withstands accidental impacts.
Who it’s for:
Runners who train in bright sunlight.
Those who need highly accurate GPS in challenging environments (city or forest).
Users who want to track stress and overall wellbeing alongside running metrics.
Specifications:
Stainless steel case with titanium bezel, weight 49.7 g, diameter 46 mm
AMOLED display with sapphire glass
Sensors: heart rate, SpO2, body temperature
Dual-band GPS, NFC, 32 GB internal storage, MIL-STD-810H impact resistance
10. Mobvoi TicWatch Pro 3 GPS
Mobvoi TicWatch Pro 3 GPS combine stainless steel with plastic, and a weight of 41 grams makes them noticeably lighter on the wrist. The dual AMOLED and FSTN display setup helps keep data visible in different conditions, while the 454x454 resolution delivers a sharp image.
Modes cover outdoor running, trail running, and even climbing. The heart rate sensor, pulse oximeter, and ECG track condition, while the thermometer checks skin temperature. A microphone and speaker allow hands-free calls while on the move.
Strengths:
The dual display is convenient for reading metrics in bright light or darkness.
The lightweight 41 gram design does not fatigue the wrist on long distances.
ECG and skin temperature tracking provide extra insight into wellbeing.
Hands-free calling lets you answer calls without stopping.
Who it’s for:
Those who value light weight and a dual display for visibility.
People who want to take calls while running on uneven terrain.
Specifications:
Stainless steel and plastic case, dimensions 47x48x12.3 mm
Dual AMOLED and FSTN display
Sensors: heart rate, SpO2, skin temperature, ECG
GPS, NFC (Google Pay), 8 GB internal storage
11. Amazfit GTR 4
Amazfit GTR 4 weigh just 34 grams, so you barely notice them on your wrist during long runs. The aluminum case and round AMOLED display with a 466x466 resolution deliver a sharp image, while the dual-band GPS antenna helps track routes accurately even in dense urban areas or under tree cover.
More than 150 sports modes cover running, swimming, and cycling. The BioTracker 4.0 biometric sensor monitors heart rate and blood oxygen, which is useful to understand whether the body is overloaded after interval sessions. Built-in storage allows you to load music and listen through headphones without a phone.
Advantages:
The lightweight 34 gram design stays comfortable throughout the entire workout.
Dual-band GPS ensures accurate route tracking in challenging conditions.
Over 150 activity modes make it easy to track different types of training.
The built-in music player lets you run with music without a smartphone.
Who it’s for:
People who value a lightweight feel on the wrist.
Anyone who wants accurate route data without unnecessary signal interference.
Specifications:
AMOLED display, 466x466 resolution
Dual-band GPS
BioTracker 4.0 sensor for heart rate and SpO2
2 GB built-in storage for music
12. Amazfit Balance
Amazfit Balance combine an aluminum case with a reinforced polymer back, and the 35 gram weight does not burden the wrist. The AMOLED display with a 480x480 resolution and anti-fingerprint coating remains easy to read, while dual-band GPS with navigation helps you stay on track on unfamiliar routes.
They include a voice assistant and more than 200 watch faces for customization. Sensors track heart rate, blood oxygen, and sleep, giving insight into recovery after runs. More than 150 modes include running and other activities, and the built-in microphone allows you to answer calls during workouts.
Advantages:
Route navigation helps you stay oriented on unfamiliar courses.
The voice assistant makes control easier without stopping your run.
The anti-fingerprint screen coating keeps the display clean even when sweating.
The thermometer adds body temperature data for better condition monitoring.
Who it’s for:
Runners who need navigation.
Those who enjoy personalizing the interface and tracking overall wellbeing through sensors.
Specifications:
Aluminum and polymer case, weight 35 g, dimensions 46x46x10.6 mm
AMOLED display with tempered glass
Dual-band GPS with route navigation
Sensors: heart rate, SpO2, body temperature
13. Amazfit Cheetah Round
Amazfit Cheetah Round feature a plastic case weighing 47 grams - slightly more noticeable, but still not restrictive during movement. The round AMOLED display with a 454x454 resolution shows data clearly, while GPS reliably locks onto signal to track pace and distance.
The watch focuses primarily on running and walking modes. The heart rate sensor and pulse oximeter help monitor effort in real time, and sleep tracking suggests when it is best to plan the next workout. A built-in microphone supports calls on the go.
Advantages:
A strong focus on running modes keeps the interface simple for core tasks.
Accurate GPS tracks distance without unnecessary dropouts.
The pulse oximeter is useful for checking blood oxygen during intense sessions.
5 ATM water resistance allows running in the rain.
Who it’s for:
Runners.
People who need basic but reliable heart rate and route tracking.
Specifications:
AMOLED display, 454x454 resolution
GPS
Sensors: heart rate, SpO2
5 ATM water resistance
14. Nothing CMF Watch 3 Pro
Nothing CMF Watch 3 Pro come with an aluminum case, and the 51.9 gram weight feels noticeable on the wrist without causing pressure during runs. The AMOLED display with a 466x466 resolution and brightness up to 670 nits shows data clearly even on cloudy days, while IP68 protection means sweat and rain are not an issue.
More than 130 sports modes automatically recognize several activities, including running. Dual-band GPS accurately tracks route and pace, the pulse oximeter checks blood oxygen, and the built-in flashlight helps in low light. A microphone allows you to answer calls on the move.
Strengths:
Automatic activity recognition makes it easy to start workouts without extra taps.
Dual-band GPS improves route accuracy in the city or park.
The built-in flashlight lights the way during evening runs.
More than 120 watch faces let you change the look to match your mood.
Who it’s for:
People who run at different times of day and want accurate tracking.
Anyone who prefers simplicity and automatic activity detection.
Specifications:
Aluminum case, weight 51.9 g
Round AMOLED display, brightness up to 670 nits
Sensors: heart rate, SpO2
Dual-band GPS, flashlight
15. Honor Watch 4
Honor Watch 4 stand out with a ceramic case and a rectangular IPS display with a 450x390 resolution. The shape sits naturally on the wrist like a classic watch, and the silicone strap does not cause chafing even after long runs.
Modes cover the main types of activity, including running. The heart rate sensor and pulse oximeter track effort in real time, while sleep tracking provides insight into recovery. Notifications appear directly on the screen so you do not miss anything important.
Advantages:
The ceramic case feels cool and pleasant on the skin.
The rectangular display is convenient for reading longer notifications.
The pulse oximeter helps monitor breathing during intense intervals.
Sleep tracking helps plan the next run more effectively.
Who it’s for:
Those who prefer a classic watch shape even during sports.
People who need basic heart rate and oxygen tracking for regular runs.
Specifications:
Ceramic case
Rectangular IPS display
Sensors: heart rate, SpO2
Android and iOS support
Conclusion
Running smartwatches today are so varied that everyone can find something that fits their habits and routes. Some people run on city pavement and want a lightweight watch with accurate heart rate tracking and built-in music so they do not have to carry a phone. Others head out on all-day trail runs and need maps, reliable GPS, and a durable case that will not fail in the rain or after an accidental hit against a branch.
In the end, it all comes down to how often you run and what you expect from the device. If you jog a couple of times a week in the park, simpler models with basic sensors are enough. For those preparing for marathons or ultras, it makes sense to choose something more advanced with navigation and deeper recovery analysis. The key is that the watch feels comfortable on the wrist and delivers numbers you can trust. When that happens, running becomes not only more effective, but also more enjoyable - with motivation from new data and no need to stop and check your phone. Run for pleasure, and let the kilometers add up easily.