Looking for the best running watches in 2025? Whether you’re training for a marathon or starting your fitness journey, a GPS running watch can help track your progress, improve your training, and keep you motivated.

As a long-distance runner and gear reviewer, I’ve tested the top models from Garmin, COROS, Apple, Polar, and Suunto. Here are the top 5 running watches of 2025, with expert reviews, pros, cons, and buying advice.

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Garmin Forerunner 965 – Best Overall Running Watch 2025

The Garmin Forerunner 965 combines next-gen GPS accuracy with advanced training tools and a beautiful AMOLED display.

Check Garmin Forerunner 965 price on Amazon

• Multi-band GPS for precise location tracking
• AMOLED touchscreen with Gorilla Glass
• VO2 max, HRV, and training readiness features
• Battery life: Up to 23 days (smartwatch mode)

Pros:
Best-in-class GPS accuracy
Advanced metrics for serious runners
Onboard maps + music
Long battery life

Cons:
Expensive ($599)
Slightly bulky

Best for: Advanced runners, marathoners, triathletes.

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COROS Pace 3 – Best Budget Running Watch

The COROS Pace 3 offers premium features under $250. With its featherweight design and elite tracking, it’s a favorite among value-focused runners.

See COROS Pace 3 deals on COROS.com

• Dual-frequency GPS for accurate pace
• Battery life: Up to 24 days
• Structured workouts and EvoLab training tools

Pros:
Lightweight and comfortable
Long battery life
Surprisingly advanced GPS tracking
Great price

Cons:
No music storage
App ecosystem not as polished

Best for: Budget-conscious runners who still want performance tracking.

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Apple Watch Ultra 2 – Best Smartwatch for Runners

The Apple Watch Ultra 2 brings serious GPS features into the Apple ecosystem, with rugged design and smart integrations.

Buy Apple Watch Ultra 2 on Amazon

• Dual-frequency GPS + Retina display
• 36-hour battery life (up to 72 with low power)
• Crash detection, SOS, dive-ready build

Pros:
High-res always-on display
Excellent for daily and workout use
Smooth integration with iOS
Great with Strava, WorkOutDoors, NRC

Cons:
Shorter battery life than dedicated GPS watches
Requires apps for serious training data
Expensive ($799)

Best for: iPhone users who want a smart + sporty hybrid device.

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Polar Vantage V3 – Best for Heart Rate & Recovery

The Polar Vantage V3 excels in health tracking with sensors for ECG, SpO2, temperature, and more.

View Polar Vantage V3 on Polar.com

• Precision Prime™ optical heart rate sensor
• Sleep and recovery tools via Polar Flow
• Battery life: Up to 53 hours in GPS mode

Pros:
Industry-leading heart rate accuracy
In-depth recovery insights
Sharp AMOLED display
Offline maps included

Cons:
App less intuitive
Fewer third-party integrations

Best for: Health-conscious runners and those focused on HR-based training and sleep tracking.

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Suunto Race – Best for Trail and Ultra Runners

The Suunto Race is built for the wild, with durable materials and reliable GPS for the mountains.

Shop Suunto Race on Suunto.com

• Offline maps + route heatmaps
• Battery life: 40+ hours in GPS mode
• Titanium bezel + sapphire glass

Pros:
Super durable for harsh conditions
Excellent for long trail runs
Accurate navigation and elevation data
Stylish and rugged

Cons:
Heavier than road-running watches
UI could be faster

Best for: Trail runners, hikers, and ultra-endurance athletes.

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Running Watch Comparison Table

Watch	Best For	Price (Approx.)
Garmin Forerunner 965	Overall Performance	$599
COROS Pace 3	Budget Performance	$229
Apple Watch Ultra 2	Smartwatch + Running	$799
Polar Vantage V3	Heart Rate & Recovery	$599
Suunto Race	Trail/Ultra Running	$449

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Final Thoughts: Choosing the Right Running Watch

Choosing the right running watch in 2025 depends on your training style and tech preferences. Here’s a quick recap:

• New runners: Go with the COROS Pace 3
• Tech lovers: Choose the Apple Watch Ultra 2
• Data-driven athletes: The Garmin Forerunner 965 is top-tier
• Recovery-focused: Try the Polar Vantage V3
• Trail enthusiasts: The Suunto Race won’t let you down

Still unsure? Drop a comment with your goals or training level, and I’ll help you choose the perfect GPS watch!

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Disclosure: This post contains affiliate links. I may earn a commission if you purchase through these links—at no extra cost to you.