10 Best Smartwatches for Fitness Tracking and More
Today, a smartwatch isn’t just a gadget to read the time, it’s a personal assistant, fitness coach, and health monitor all in one. And this is exactly why you should consider one of the best smartwatches for fitness in this list.
Whether you’re aiming to improve your fitness, monitor your health, or stay connected on the go, the right smartwatch can make a significant difference. Here’s a rundown of the 10 best smartwatches that excel in fitness tracking and offer a suite of additional features to enhance your daily life.
Summary: 3 Best Smartwatches for Fitness
Apple Watch Series 8
Advantages:
- Advanced health monitoring with ECG and blood oxygen sensors
- Comprehensive fitness tracking with customizable workouts
- Seamless integration with iPhone and Apple ecosystem
- Always-on Retina display for easy access
- Robust app library for extended functionality
Cons:
- Battery life lasts only about 18 hours
- Works best exclusively with iOS devices
Samsung Galaxy Watch 5
Advantages:
- Accurate fitness and sleep tracking features
- Long battery life lasting up to two days
- Compatible with Android devices
- Durable design with water and dust resistance
- Built-in GPS and optional LTE connectivity
Cons:
- Limited functionality with iOS devices
- Fewer third-party apps compared to competitors
Garmin Forerunner 955
Advantages:
- Advanced GPS and multi-sport tracking capabilities
- Exceptional battery life up to two weeks
- Detailed performance metrics for serious athletes
- Music storage and playback capabilities
- Rugged build for outdoor activities
Cons:
- Less intuitive user interface
- Lacks some smart features like contactless payments
10 Best Smartwatches for Fitness Tracking
Apple Watch Series 8
The Apple Watch Series 8 elevates your health and fitness tracking with cutting-edge technology. It features advanced sensors that monitor your heart rate, blood oxygen levels, and even perform ECG readings.
The watch offers personalized workout recommendations and tracks a wide range of activities, from running and swimming to yoga and dance. With its always-on Retina display, you can easily view your stats without lifting your wrist.
Seamless integration with your iPhone allows you to receive calls, texts, and notifications directly on your wrist. The extensive app library lets you customize your experience, adding apps for meditation, nutrition tracking, and more.
Who is this for?
If you’re an iPhone user looking for a comprehensive smartwatch that excels in both fitness tracking and smart features, the Apple Watch Series 8 is perfect for you. It’s ideal if you want advanced health monitoring tools and a device that integrates seamlessly with your existing Apple ecosystem.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Advanced health monitoring with ECG and blood oxygen sensors
- Comprehensive fitness tracking with customizable workouts
- Seamless integration with iPhone and Apple ecosystem
- Always-on Retina display for easy access
- Robust app library for extended functionality
Cons:
- Battery life lasts only about 18 hours
- Works best exclusively with iOS devices
Samsung Galaxy Watch 5
The Samsung Galaxy Watch 5 offers a balanced mix of fitness tracking and smart functionalities. It features accurate heart rate monitoring, sleep tracking, and stress management tools.
The watch is equipped with built-in GPS, allowing you to track your runs and hikes without your phone. With a durable design that includes water and dust resistance, it’s built to withstand your active lifestyle.
The Galaxy Watch 5 also supports Android devices, providing notifications, music control, and access to a variety of apps to enhance your experience.
Who is this for?
If you’re seeking a versatile smartwatch that works well with Android devices and offers solid fitness tracking features, the Samsung Galaxy Watch 5 is a great choice. It’s suitable if you value long battery life and a durable design that can keep up with your active lifestyle.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Accurate fitness and sleep tracking features
- Long battery life lasting up to two days
- Compatible with Android devices
- Durable design with water and dust resistance
- Built-in GPS and optional LTE connectivity
Cons:
- Limited functionality with iOS devices
- Fewer third-party apps compared to competitors
Garmin Forerunner 955
The Garmin Forerunner 955 is designed for serious athletes who require detailed performance metrics. It offers advanced GPS tracking, multi-sport functionality, and in-depth analytics like VO2 max and training load.
The watch provides personalized training plans and real-time stamina monitoring to optimize your workouts. With an impressive battery life of up to two weeks, you won’t have to worry about frequent charging.
The Forerunner 955 also includes music storage and playback, so you can enjoy your favorite tunes during your workouts without needing your phone.
Who is this for?
If you’re a dedicated athlete or fitness enthusiast seeking a smartwatch with advanced training features and excellent battery life, the Garmin Forerunner 955 is ideal for you. It’s perfect if you prioritize detailed performance insights over general smart features.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Advanced GPS and multi-sport tracking capabilities
- Exceptional battery life up to two weeks
- Detailed performance metrics for serious athletes
- Music storage and playback capabilities
- Rugged build for outdoor activities
Cons:
- Less intuitive user interface
- Lacks some smart features like contactless payments
Fitbit Sense 2
The Fitbit Sense 2 focuses on holistic health tracking, offering features like stress management, skin temperature monitoring, and ECG readings. It tracks a wide range of exercises and provides personalized insights to help you improve your fitness levels.
With built-in GPS and over 20 exercise modes, you can accurately track your activities. The watch offers up to six days of battery life, so you can wear it day and night to monitor your sleep patterns.
Additionally, the Fitbit app ecosystem provides access to guided workouts, mindfulness sessions, and community challenges.
Who is this for?
If you’re interested in a smartwatch that emphasizes overall wellness and stress management, the Fitbit Sense 2 is for you. It’s suitable if you want a device that offers both fitness tracking and in-depth health insights without being tied to a specific smartphone brand.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Comprehensive health tracking including stress and sleep monitoring
- Long battery life up to six days
- Compatible with both Android and iOS devices
- Access to a robust fitness and wellness community
- Lightweight and comfortable design
Cons:
- Some advanced features require a Fitbit Premium subscription
- Limited third-party app support
Garmin Venu 2
The Garmin Venu 2 combines robust fitness tracking with a vibrant AMOLED display. It offers detailed health metrics like heart rate variability, respiration tracking, and Body Battery energy monitoring.
With over 25 built-in sports apps, you can track everything from running and cycling to yoga and Pilates. The watch also supports music storage and streaming from popular services like Spotify.
With a battery life of up to 11 days in smartwatch mode, you can focus on your activities without frequent recharging. The Venu 2’s stylish design makes it suitable for both workouts and daily wear.
Who is this for?
If you want a feature-rich smartwatch that offers extensive fitness tracking and a bright, colorful display, the Garmin Venu 2 is a great option. It’s ideal if you prefer a device that provides in-depth health insights and supports music playback without relying on your phone.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Detailed health and fitness tracking features
- Vibrant AMOLED display
- Long battery life up to 11 days
- Music storage and streaming capabilities
- Stylish design suitable for daily wear
Cons:
- Higher price point
- Limited smart features compared to competitors
Polar Vantage V2
The Polar Vantage V2 is designed for endurance athletes, offering advanced training and recovery features. It provides detailed metrics like running power, training load, and recovery insights to optimize your performance.
The watch includes GPS and barometric altimeter for accurate outdoor tracking. With up to 40 hours of continuous training time, it’s perfect for long-distance events. The lightweight aluminum case ensures durability without adding bulk.
The Vantage V2 also offers music controls and weather information to keep you connected during your workouts.
Who is this for?
If you’re an endurance athlete or triathlete seeking a smartwatch with advanced training tools and exceptional battery life, the Polar Vantage V2 is ideal for you. It’s suitable if you need detailed performance data to fine-tune your training regimen.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Advanced training and recovery features
- Exceptional battery life for endurance activities
- Accurate GPS and altitude tracking
- Lightweight and durable design
- Supports multiple sports including triathlon modes
Cons:
- Limited smart features beyond fitness tracking
- Less intuitive interface for casual users
Suunto 9 Peak Pro
The Suunto 9 Peak Pro offers rugged durability and comprehensive outdoor tracking features. It’s built with sapphire glass and grade 5 titanium, making it resistant to harsh conditions.
The watch provides accurate GPS tracking, over 80 sport modes, and barometric altitude readings. With a battery life of up to 170 hours in tour mode, it’s designed for extended adventures.
The Suunto app allows you to plan routes and access heatmaps for popular trails. The watch also offers basic smart features like notifications and weather updates.
Who is this for?
If you’re an outdoor enthusiast who requires a durable smartwatch with extensive tracking capabilities, the Suunto 9 Peak Pro is perfect for you. It’s ideal if you engage in activities like hiking, trail running, or mountaineering and need a reliable companion.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Rugged and durable construction
- Extensive battery life options
- Comprehensive outdoor tracking features
- Over 80 sport modes
- Route planning and heatmaps via Suunto app
Cons:
- Higher price point
- Limited smart features and app ecosystem
Amazfit GTR 4
The Amazfit GTR 4 offers a balance of fitness tracking and smart features at an affordable price. It includes heart rate monitoring, blood oxygen saturation measurement, and over 90 sports modes.
The watch features a classic design with a round AMOLED display, suitable for both casual and formal settings. With a battery life of up to 14 days, you can track your activities without frequent charging. The GTR 4 also provides notifications, music control, and customizable watch faces to personalize your experience.
Who is this for?
If you’re looking for a budget-friendly smartwatch that doesn’t compromise on essential fitness features, the Amazfit GTR 4 is a great choice. It’s suitable if you want a stylish watch that offers basic smart functionalities and long battery life.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Affordable price with robust features
- Long battery life up to 14 days
- Stylish design with AMOLED display
- Comprehensive fitness tracking
- Compatible with Android and iOS devices
Cons:
- Limited third-party app support
- Less accurate tracking compared to premium models
Fossil Gen 6
The Fossil Gen 6 smartwatch combines fashion with technology, featuring a sleek design and customizable watch faces. It runs on Google’s Wear OS, giving you access to a variety of apps and Google Assistant.
The watch offers heart rate monitoring, sleep tracking, and SpO2 measurements. With fast charging capabilities, you can reach 80% battery in just 30 minutes. The Fossil Gen 6 also supports phone calls and notifications, keeping you connected on the go.
Who is this for?
If you value style and want a smartwatch that complements your wardrobe while offering essential fitness tracking, the Fossil Gen 6 is ideal for you. It’s suitable if you prefer the versatility of Wear OS and need a device that functions well as both a watch and a smart device.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Stylish design with customizable options
- Runs on Wear OS with access to Google services
- Fast charging capabilities
- Offers essential fitness tracking features
- Supports phone calls and notifications
Cons:
- Battery life lasts only about a day
- Fitness tracking features are basic compared to specialized models
Huawei Watch GT 3
The Huawei Watch GT 3 offers a premium design with a focus on health and fitness tracking. It features advanced heart rate monitoring, SpO2 tracking, and over 100 workout modes.
The watch provides personalized AI running coach features to help you achieve your fitness goals. With up to two weeks of battery life, it’s designed for long-term use. The AMOLED display offers sharp visuals, and the watch supports notifications, music playback, and weather updates.
Who is this for?
If you’re seeking a stylish smartwatch with extensive fitness features and long battery life, the Huawei Watch GT 3 is a solid option. It’s ideal if you want a device that offers personalized coaching and a premium look.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Long battery life up to two weeks
- Advanced fitness and health tracking features
- Premium design with AMOLED display
- Personalized AI coaching
- Supports music playback and notifications
Cons:
- Limited app ecosystem due to software restrictions
- Some features may not be available in all regions
How to Choose the Right Smartwatch for Fitness
When selecting a fitness smartwatch, consider your specific needs and activities. Think about the types of workouts you do and the metrics you want to track. Compatibility with your smartphone is crucial for seamless integration. Also, consider battery life, design, and additional features like music playback or mobile payments.
Key Features to Look for in a Fitness Smartwatch
Key features include accurate heart rate monitoring, GPS tracking, water resistance, and activity-specific modes. Advanced health metrics like SpO2, ECG, and stress monitoring can provide deeper insights. Smart features like notifications, voice assistants, and app support enhance the overall experience.
Comparing Battery Life in Fitness Smartwatches
Battery life varies widely among smartwatches. Some offer just a day or two, while others last for weeks. Consider how often you’re willing to charge your device and whether long battery life is essential for your activities, especially for endurance sports or multi-day events.
Smartwatches with Advanced Health Monitoring Features
If you’re interested in in-depth health insights, look for watches with ECG readings, blood oxygen monitoring, sleep analysis, and stress tracking. These features can help you understand your overall well-being and detect potential health issues early.
GPS and Navigation Capabilities in Smartwatches
Built-in GPS allows for accurate tracking of outdoor activities without needing your phone. Some watches offer advanced navigation features like route planning, back-to-start guidance, and altitude tracking, which are beneficial for hikers and trail runners.
Compatibility with Fitness Apps and Devices
Ensure the smartwatch integrates with your preferred fitness apps like Strava, MyFitnessPal, or Apple Health. Compatibility with external devices like chest strap heart rate monitors or cycling sensors can enhance your tracking capabilities.
Water Resistance and Durability for Outdoor Activities
If you swim or participate in water sports, look for watches with appropriate water resistance ratings. Durability features like scratch-resistant glass and rugged materials are important for outdoor enthusiasts.
Smartwatches for Specific Sports and Activities
Some smartwatches cater to specific sports, offering tailored metrics for running, cycling, swimming, or triathlons. Choose a watch that supports your primary activities and provides relevant data.
Customization Options in Fitness Smartwatches
Customization allows you to personalize watch faces, data screens, and widgets. This can enhance usability by displaying the information most important to you.
Price Comparison: High-End vs. Budget Smartwatches
High-end smartwatches offer advanced features and premium materials but come at a higher price. Budget options may provide essential fitness tracking but lack advanced metrics or smart features. Determine which features are worth the investment based on your needs.
FAQ
What features should I look for in a fitness smartwatch?
Look for accurate heart rate monitoring, GPS tracking, activity-specific modes, water resistance, and long battery life. Additional health metrics like SpO2 and sleep tracking can provide deeper insights.
Can smartwatches track heart rate and other health metrics?
Yes, most fitness smartwatches offer continuous heart rate monitoring and additional health metrics like blood oxygen levels, sleep patterns, and stress levels.
Are fitness smartwatches water-resistant?
Many fitness smartwatches are water-resistant and suitable for swimming. Check the water resistance rating (e.g., 5 ATM or IP68) to ensure it meets your needs.
How long does a typical smartwatch battery last?
Battery life varies; some last up to a week or more, while others need daily charging. Consider your usage patterns and charging preferences when choosing a watch.
Are fitness smartwatches compatible with smartphones?
Most smartwatches are compatible with smartphones via Bluetooth, but compatibility may vary between iOS and Android devices. Ensure the watch supports your phone’s operating system for full functionality.
Conclusion
A smartwatch can be a valuable tool for enhancing your fitness journey and staying connected. By considering your specific needs, whether it’s advanced health monitoring, rugged outdoor features, or seamless smartphone integration, you can find the perfect smartwatch to support your lifestyle.
The options listed above offer a range of features and price points, ensuring there’s a suitable choice for every fitness enthusiast. Invest in a smartwatch that not only tracks your progress but also motivates and empowers you to reach your health and wellness goals.