Best Running GPS Units of 2026

The Garmin Running Watch is an easy-to-use watch designed for runners. It monitors your heart rate at the wrist and uses GPS to track your running distance, speed, and location. With up to 2 weeks of battery life in smartwatch mode and up to 20 hours in GPS mode, you can use it for long runs without worrying about the battery. The PacePro feature helps you plan your race day strategy by providing GPS-based pace guidance for a selected course or distance. The watch also offers helpful training tools, including race time predictions and finish time estimates. With built-in activity profiles for running, cycling, swimming, and more, you can track all the ways you move. Additionally, the advanced wellness features, such as intensity minutes and fitness age, help you tune in to your body. The watch also offers suggested workouts of varying intensities based on your training history, fitness level, and recovery time, taking the guesswork out of training.

The COROS PACE 3 is designed for comfort and durability, featuring a lightweight body that makes it easy to wear throughout the day and night. Its always-on 1.2" touchscreen display allows you to access various settings, enhancing your user experience during workouts. The watch boasts an impressive battery life, supporting up to 38 hours of continuous GPS use and 17 days of daily usage. Additionally, its dual-frequency GPS ensures precise tracking, even in urban environments, helping you stay on course while you run, bike, or ski.

The COROS PACE 4 Watch offers an ultralight and slim design, weighing only 32 grams, making it comfortable for all-day wear without feeling bulky. Its vibrant 1.2-inch AMOLED touchscreen provides clear, sharp visuals with brightness that adjusts automatically, so you can easily see the screen in any lighting. With a long-lasting battery, you can enjoy up to 41 hours of continuous GPS use or 19 days on a single charge, perfect for extended workouts or daily use. The watch also includes voice features that let you record your thoughts and set alarms hands-free, adding a new level of convenience to your training sessions.

The COROS PACE Pro Watch features a bright 1.3-inch AMOLED screen that stays clear and easy to read in any lighting, whether you're running in daylight or early morning. It responds quickly thanks to a powerful processor that is twice as fast as previous models, giving you smooth and speedy access to your data. The battery life is outstanding, lasting up to 20 days on a single charge, so you can focus on your workouts without worrying about recharging. Plus, its advanced GPS system provides precise location tracking, whether you're navigating city streets or off-the-beaten-path trails, helping you stay on course with confidence.

The Garmin Forerunner 165 is a lightweight running smartwatch designed to help you track your pace, distance, and heart rate with its built-in GPS and wrist-based sensor. Its bright AMOLED touchscreen, combined with traditional buttons, makes navigation simple and clear during your workouts. You can enjoy long battery life, lasting up to 11 days in smartwatch mode and 19 hours when using GPS, so you won’t have to worry about frequent charging. With personalized daily workouts that adjust based on your performance and recovery, the Garmin Forerunner 165 guides you to reach your fitness goals effectively and safely.

The SUUNTO 9 Peak Pro is a top choice for serious athletes and adventurers who need a reliable sports watch. Its fast charging lets you get a full battery in just one hour, so you’re ready to go quickly, and it offers long-lasting GPS tracking for your runs or hikes. The watch connects to multiple satellite systems, ensuring precise location tracking even in tricky places like cities or mountains. Built tough with military-grade materials and waterproof design, it’s made to handle rough conditions. Plus, it offers many sports modes and helpful features like navigation and weather alerts, keeping you safe and informed on all your activities.

The Garmin fēnix 7 Pro is a tough multisport GPS watch designed for active users who want durability and advanced features. Its 1.3-inch display is housed in a strong 47 mm case with a titanium bezel, making it resistant to wear and tear during outdoor activities. The watch’s solar charging lens lets you extend your battery life by harnessing sunlight, so you can stay connected longer without frequent recharging. Plus, the built-in LED flashlight offers adjustable brightness and strobe options, helping you stay safe and see clearly during nighttime workouts or in low-light situations. With the new hill score feature, you can track how well you perform on uphill runs, making it easier to monitor your progress over time.

The Garmin Enduro 2 is designed for those who demand exceptional performance. Its 1.4” Power Sapphire lens captures solar energy, extending the time between charges, so you can stay focused on your activities. With SatIQ technology, the watch intelligently selects the best GPS mode to optimize battery life while ensuring accurate location tracking. The lightweight, rugged design and comfortable UltraFit nylon band mean you won’t be slowed down, making it perfect for any adventure. Plus, with preloaded TopoActive and ski maps, finding your way is easier than ever, whether you’re on a trail or hitting the slopes.

The Garmin quatix 7 is a versatile marine GPS smartwatch designed for boating enthusiasts. It features a durable 1.3-inch always-on display and combines traditional buttons with a responsive touchscreen, making it easy to navigate in any condition. You can connect it to compatible Garmin chartplotters for remote control of essential features, enhancing your boating experience. Additionally, it provides real-time tide information and alerts for anchor drag, ensuring you stay informed while on the water. With these tools, you can enjoy a safer and more enjoyable time out on the waves.

The SUUNTO Run Watch is designed to keep you comfortable and connected during your workouts and daily activities. Its lightweight build and clear 1.32" AMOLED touchscreen make it easy to check your stats without slowing down. You’ll appreciate the long battery life, which lasts up to 12 days for regular use and 20 hours with GPS on, so you won’t have to worry about frequent charging. The dual-frequency GPS ensures you get precise location tracking, helping you stay on course whether running in the city or exploring trails. Plus, it tracks your heart rate and training load, giving you valuable feedback to improve your performance and avoid overtraining.