Choosing the perfect running watch in 2025 isn’t just about style—it’s about unlocking performance, staying motivated, and running smarter. Whether you’re a weekend warrior or deep in marathon training, today’s GPS watches do way more than count your steps.
In this guide, we’ll help you:
- Understand the key features that matter (and which are just fluff)
- Compare top-rated models runners actually use
- Match a watch to your running goals with our no-BS guide
Let’s dive into the best running watches of 2025 and what makes them worth strapping on your wrist.
Top Running Watches of 2025 (Trusted by Real Runners)
Disclaimer: Some links in this post are affiliate links, which means we may earn a small commission if you purchase through them, at no extra cost to you. This helps support the site.
Garmin Forerunner 265 – Best All-Around Running Watch
If you want crisp visuals, effortless GPS tracking, and solid training insights without overspending, this is it. The Forerunner 265 packs an AMOLED display, music storage, and advanced health metrics—all without drowning you in data.
Why runners love it: It’s lightweight, stylish, and offers great value for the features.
- Brilliant AMOLED touchscreen display with traditional button controls; lightweight design in 46 mm size
- Up to 13 days of battery life in smartwatch mode and up to 20 hours in GPS mode
- As soon as you wake up, get your morning report with an overview of your sleep, recovery and training outlook alongside …
Garmin Forerunner 965 – Best Premium Performance Watch
Want the Ferrari of running watches? The 965 is built for serious training. With full-color maps, a Training Readiness score, and one of the best AMOLED displays on the market, this is for runners who want data to fuel their edge.
Great for: High-mileage athletes, triathletes, and data-focused runners.
- Provides, full-colour, built-in mapping to keep you on track
- Carbon grey titanium bezel with black case and amp yellow/black silicone band
- Create your own custom multisport profiles
Coros Pace 3 – Best Budget GPS Running Watch
Don’t need all the bells and whistles? Coros Pace 3 is small on price, big on performance. With strong GPS accuracy, decent battery life, and essential run metrics, it’s a no-fuss companion for everyday training.
Ideal for: Beginners or runners who want simplicity without compromise.
- Comfort, Lightweight, Durable: With the Super-light sleek 11.7mm body and 30g Weight (with nylon band), COROS PACE 3 Spo…
- Always-on 1.2″ transflective touchscreen display: The COROS PACE 3 offers a touchscreen experience. Touch Screen Setting…
- Extended battery life: Designed to increase battery capacity, COROS PACE 3 Sports watch GPS maximizes time on your wrist…
Garmin Enduro 3 (or 2) – Best Ultra/Adventure Watch
Running 100Ks? Hiking through the backcountry? The Enduro line has your back. Its battery life is wild—up to 150 hours in GPS mode—and it’s solar-powered, rugged, and built for long-haul training.
Runner-approved: Trail runners and endurance athletes who need battery that lasts longer than their legs.
- Solar power provides best-in-class battery life for the longest races
- SatIQ technology maximizes battery life without compromising the positional accuracy you need
- A superbright LED flashlight helps you keep an eye on your surroundings
Apple Watch Ultra 2 – Best Smartwatch + Running Combo
The Ultra 2 gives you the best of both worlds—Apple ecosystem perks with legit GPS accuracy, crash detection, and health tracking. It won’t replace a Forerunner for hardcore analytics, but it’s closer than ever.
Perfect for: Runners who want smart features and solid training tools in one.
This is my recommendation due to versatility and being an Apple iPhone user.
![Apple Watch Ultra 2 [GPS + Cellular, 49mm] Black Titanium Case wi...](https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/51nv3TkUwDL.jpg)
- WHY APPLE WATCH ULTRA 2 — Meet the ultimate sports and adventure watch. Advanced features for runners, cyclists, swimmer…
- EXTREMELY RUGGED, INCREDIBLY CAPABLE — 49mm corrosion-resistant titanium case. Sapphire front crystal. Large Digital Cro…
- THE FREEDOM OF CELLULAR — With a mobile service plan, you can call and text without your iPhone nearby. Stream your favo…
Comparison Table: 2025’s Best Running Watches at a Glance
| Watch Model | Best For | Battery (GPS Mode) | Display Type |
|---|---|---|---|
| Garmin Forerunner 965 | Serious runners & triathletes | ~30 hrs (smartwatch = ~23 d) | 1.4″ AMOLED |
| Garmin Forerunner 265 | Everyday & value-oriented runners | ~20 hrs | 1.3″ AMOLED |
| Garmin Enduro 3/2 | Endurance & ultra-runners | 100–150 hrs | MIP |
| Coros Pace 3 | Budget-conscious runners | ~20 hrs | LCD/MIP |
| Apple Watch Ultra 2 | iPhone users & hybrid smartwatch seekers | ~36 hrs | Retina AMOLED |
Which Running Watch Should You Choose?
You’re an ultra-distance junkie:
Go with the Garmin Enduro 3 or 2. Battery for days, solar power, and trail-focused features.
You’re building consistency and want great value:
The Garmin Forerunner 265 is your match. Packed with training insights and recovery data without breaking the bank.
You’re serious about stats and structured workouts:
Go premium with the Garmin Forerunner 965. It’s built for peak performance and data analysis.
You’re budget-conscious but still want GPS and training tools:
The Coros Pace 3 delivers the essentials with a price tag you’ll love.
You want smartwatch features and running functionality:
The Apple Watch Ultra 2 blends notifications, safety, and fitness tracking seamlessly.
Final Thoughts: Why a Good Running Watch Is More Than a Gadget
In 2025, your running watch is more than a stopwatch—it’s your personal coach, your accountability partner, and your silent motivator. From injury prevention through HR tracking to gamified achievements and real-time GPS, these watches do more than tell time—they tell your story.
If you’re ready to make your next run smarter and stronger, any of these top picks can guide the way. And soon, you’ll be able to click through directly to the models you love—we’ll be updating this guide with affiliate links to make your search easier and support our work at no cost to you.
Happy running!
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