Choosing the best running watches can improve your training and performance. Here, you’ll find the top running watches of 2025, tailored for every type of runner and different budgets.
The Garmin Forerunner 265 stands out as the best overall option.
Here are some other recommendations:
Price: £379.99
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The Garmin Forerunner 265 is the top GPS running watch of 2025 due to its accurate GPS tracking, music controls, and advanced health metrics, making it a versatile choice for any runner.
With the longest battery life of up to 15 days in smartwatch mode and 20 hours in GPS mode, the Garmin Forerunner 265 ensures you won’t run out of power during training. Additionally, its morning report feature offers insights into sleep quality and daily readiness, setting it apart from many GPS watches.
Though its higher price and larger size might be drawbacks for some, the Garmin Forerunner 265’s robust features and excellent battery life make it a top contender in the running watch market.
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Price: £126
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For beginners, the Garmin Forerunner 55 is a great entry-level choice, offering essential features without overwhelming complexity. The user-friendly interface simplifies navigation, and the watch supports pace alerts to help you maintain your desired speed during runs.
Offering a battery life of up to 20 hours in GPS mode and water resistance of up to 50 metres, the Garmin Forerunner 55 covers all the basics. Though it lacks some advanced features found in pricier models, it excels in providing a straightforward and reliable experience for new runners. Its affordability and ease of use make it a standout option for those beginning their running journey.
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Price: £218.99
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At £218.99, the Coros Pace 3 offers the best value among running watches in 2025, providing a robust set of features without breaking the bank. Incredibly lightweight for comfort during runs, the Coros Pace 3 boasts an impressive battery life of up to 38 hours in GPS mode and up to 24 days in non-GPS mode. It also includes sleep tracking, training plans, and smartphone notifications, making it a comprehensive tool for runners.
Though it lacks advanced music controls and has a basic design, the Coros Pace 3’s affordability, functionality, and comfort make it a great choice for those seeking value.
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Price: £203
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For first-time marathoners, the Garmin Forerunner 165 is ideal due to its simple design and essential features, making it excellent for those new to running watches. Its dimensions (43 x 43 x 11.6 mm) and lightweight build (39g) ensure comfort during long runs. With a battery life of up to 19 hours in GPS mode, it’s sufficient for marathon training, and the bright AMOLED display offers clear visibility in various lighting conditions.
Though it lacks some advanced features found in higher-end models, the Garmin Forerunner 165 offers a solid foundation for marathon training, with comfort, display quality, and battery life, making it an excellent choice for first-time marathoners.
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Price: £769
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For iOS users, the Apple Watch Ultra 2 stands out with its high-resolution display (502 x 410 px) and faster S9 chip with Double Tap control, providing an enhanced user experience. The watch integrates seamlessly with iOS devices, providing essential functionalities for runners, including heart rate zones and performance metrics.
Although it has a higher price and limited battery life in GPS mode, the Apple Watch Ultra 2’s advanced features, smart features, and superior integration with Apple devices make it a top choice for iOS users.
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Price: £759
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The Garmin Enduro 3, designed for ultra-runners, features solar panel technology that doubles energy harvesting, significantly extending battery life. Weighing only 63 grams, it is lighter than its predecessor, ensuring comfort during ultra-distance events. Features like offline music, contactless payments, and the Garmin Connect app enhance its usability during long runs.
Though it has a higher price point and a more complex interface, the Garmin Enduro 3’s unique features and exceptional battery life make it an outstanding choice for ultra-runners.
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Choosing the right running watch involves considering several factors. A longer battery life is crucial to ensure the watch doesn’t run out of power during a run, which is especially important for long-distance runners. Personalised training plans and advanced tracking metrics like VO2 Max can enhance running effectiveness by tailoring workouts to specific needs and goals.
When selecting a running watch, consider if the features justify the price. High-end models offer advanced features, but a mid-range watch might provide a good balance between cost and functionality for many users.
Also, consider the watch’s weight; a lightweight watch can improve comfort during runs, significantly benefiting long-distance runners. By considering these factors and aligning them with your running goals and budget, you can choose the best running watch to enhance your performance and overall experience.
In summary, the best running watches of 2025 cater to a wide range of needs and preferences. The Garmin Forerunner 265 stands out as the best overall option, offering comprehensive features and impressive battery life. For beginners, the Garmin Forerunner 55 provides essential functionalities in a user-friendly package, while the Coros Pace 3 delivers excellent value with its robust feature set and affordability.
For those training for their first marathon, the Garmin Forerunner 165 offers simplicity and reliability. iOS users will find the Apple Watch Ultra 3 to be the perfect companion, thanks to its seamless integration with Apple devices and advanced metrics. Ultra-runners will appreciate the Garmin Enduro 3’s exceptional battery life and specialised features.
Choosing the right running watch is a personal decision that can significantly impact your training and performance. By considering your specific needs and budget, you can find the perfect watch to help you achieve your running goals.
Look for a running watch that offers accurate GPS tracking, heart rate monitoring, long battery life, and comfort. Advanced metrics like VO2 Max and personalised training plans will further enhance your running experience.
Battery life is vital for running watches, particularly for long-distance runners, as it guarantees uninterrupted tracking during extended activities. It’s essential to choose a watch with sufficient battery capacity to meet your running needs.
The Apple Watch Ultra 2 is a solid option for runners, offering advanced metrics and seamless integration with Apple devices. However, consider its high price and battery limitations when using GPS.
The Garmin Enduro 3 is ideal for ultra-runners due to its exceptional battery life, lightweight design, and solar panel technology. These features, along with offline music and contactless payments, make it perfectly suited for long-distance events.
Beginners may find advanced running watches overwhelming due to their complex features. Opting for entry-level models, such as the Garmin Forerunner 55, offers essential functionalities in a more user-friendly design.
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