10 Best Cheap Gps Running Watch 2025 in the United States

The Garmin Forerunner 55 is a budget-friendly GPS running watch that offers robust features for runners. Its GPS accuracy is reliable, ensuring you can track how far, how fast, and where you have run with confidence. The battery life is impressive, lasting up to 2 weeks in smartwatch mode and up to 20 hours in GPS mode, which means less frequent charging and more time focused on your workouts.

The heart rate monitoring feature is useful for keeping track of your fitness levels, although it's important to note that it's not a medical device and should not be used for precise health measurements. For those who enjoy swimming, the watch is water-resistant, making it versatile for different types of workouts beyond just running. Smart features include Bluetooth connectivity, suggested workouts based on your training history, and customizable watch faces and apps via the Connect IQ Store, which adds convenience and enhances the user experience.

Comfort and design are also well-addressed, with a lightweight build (37 grams) and a user-friendly interface, making it easy to wear and operate during activities. However, it does have some limitations, such as the PacePro feature not being compatible with on-device courses, which might be a drawback for some advanced runners. Additionally, the display resolution (208 x 208) is not the highest, which might affect readability under certain conditions. Despite these minor drawbacks, the Garmin Forerunner 55 is an excellent choice for runners looking for an affordable, feature-packed GPS running watch.

The Garmin vívoactive 5 is a versatile health and fitness smartwatch with several strengths. The bright, colorful AMOLED display makes it easy to read information, and the built-in GPS provides accurate tracking for outdoor activities. Its battery life is impressive, lasting up to 11 days in smartwatch mode, which means fewer charges and more convenience.

The watch includes extensive health monitoring features, such as wrist-based heart rate monitoring, sleep tracking, stress tracking, and even menstrual cycle and pregnancy tracking, making it beneficial for a wide range of users. Additionally, it offers over 30 built-in indoor and GPS sports apps, making it suitable for various activities, including running, swimming, and cycling. The inclusion of music storage and compatibility with popular streaming services is a nice touch for those who enjoy listening to music during their workouts.

However, there are some drawbacks. While the Garmin vívoactive 5 is packed with features, it might be overwhelming for users looking for a simple, cheap GPS running watch. The watch's price might be higher than other budget-friendly options in the market. Moreover, the watch's design, although comfortable and stylish with a round shape and 1.2-inch touchscreen, may not appeal to everyone, especially those who prefer a more traditional, minimalistic look. In summary, the Garmin vívoactive 5 is an excellent choice for fitness enthusiasts who want comprehensive health tracking and smart features, but it may be more advanced and costly than what someone seeking a basic GPS running watch might need.