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10 Best Gps Running Watch With Music 2025 in the United States

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Our Top Picks

#1

Winner

Apple Watch SE (2nd Gen) [GPS 40mm] Smartwatch with Starlight Aluminum Case with Starlight Sport Band S/M. Fitness and Sleep Trackers, Crash Detection, Heart Rate Monitor, Retina Display

The Apple Watch SE (2nd Gen) is a versatile GPS running watch that offers a range of features tailored for fitness enthusiasts. One of its strongest points is the built-in GPS, which provides accurate tracking of your runs without needing your phone. The device also supports music storage and playback, allowing you to listen to your favorite tunes as you exercise, enhancing your workout experience.

Battery life is generally solid, allowing for a fair amount of workout time, but heavy users may find they need to recharge more often when using music and GPS features simultaneously. Heart rate monitoring is reliable, giving you real-time feedback on your performance, which is essential for serious runners.

In terms of durability, the Apple Watch SE is swimproof with a water resistance of up to 50 meters, making it suitable for various outdoor activities. The user interface is intuitive, which is great for individuals who may not be tech-savvy; navigating through workouts and settings is relatively straightforward.

The watch is primarily designed for use with Apple products, which may limit its appeal for Android users or those seeking broader compatibility. While it offers decent music storage, it may not be as extensive as dedicated music players, so if having large playlists is crucial, this could be a drawback. Additionally, while the watch has great health features, some advanced metrics might not be as comprehensive compared to dedicated fitness devices.

The Apple Watch SE (2nd Gen) is an excellent option for Apple users looking for a stylish, multifunctional watch that excels at fitness tracking and connectivity. However, those not deeply integrated into the Apple ecosystem or looking for extensive music storage might want to explore other options.

Customer Highlights

A summary of real customer reviews to highlight what shoppers are saying!
Battery Life
The battery life lasts a full day with regular use, though it could be longer for extended workouts or sleep tracking.
Heart Rate Monitoring
The heart rate monitor is responsive and useful for both workouts and day-to-day health insights.
User Interface and Ease of Use
Setting it up was quick and painless with clear instructions.
Connectivity and Compatibility
The connectivity is so much better compared to other fitness trackers, with seamless and easy synchronization.
#2

Fitbit Versa 4 Fitness Smartwatch with Daily Readiness, GPS, 24/7 Heart Rate, 40+ Exercise Modes, Sleep Tracking and more, Waterfall Blue/Platinum, One Size (S & L Bands Included)

The Fitbit Versa 4 is a solid choice for anyone looking for a GPS running watch that offers music storage and playback, along with a variety of fitness tracking features. One of its standout strengths is the built-in GPS, which delivers reliable accuracy for tracking your runs and outdoor activities. With over 40 exercise modes and 24/7 heart rate monitoring, it caters well to fitness enthusiasts who value detailed workout metrics.

In terms of music, the Versa 4 allows you to store and play music directly from the watch, making it convenient for those who prefer to run without their phone. The watch is also water-resistant up to 50 meters, enhancing its durability and allowing you to swim or shower with it. Battery life is impressive, lasting over 6 days, which is great for users who don’t want to charge their device frequently. The user interface is touch-friendly and easy to navigate, which is a plus for those who might not be very tech-savvy.

However, there are some drawbacks to consider. While the watch does support music, it may lack integration with certain streaming services, which could limit options for music playback. Additionally, the GPS signal can sometimes struggle in heavily wooded areas, potentially affecting tracking accuracy during runs in such environments. The watch's reliance on the Fitbit app for deeper insights might be a hurdle for some users. While the watch is quite versatile, it may not have as robust a feature set as some specialized running watches, particularly for serious athletes focused solely on performance metrics.

Customer Highlights

A summary of real customer reviews to highlight what shoppers are saying!
Music Storage and Playback
Music control and playback are appreciated, but the lack of integration with certain streaming services like YouTube Music can be limiting.
Battery Life
The Versa 4 has impressive battery life, lasting up to 11 days with GPS use.
User Interface and Ease of Use
The larger screen is easy to read even in bright light, which enhances usability.
Connectivity and Compatibility
Some users noted issues with syncing the watch to their phones, but these were generally resolved with app updates or support assistance.
#3

Garmin Forerunner® 255 Music, GPS Running Smartwatch with Music, Advanced Insights, Long-Lasting Battery, Black - 010-02641-20

The Garmin Forerunner 255 Music stands out as an excellent choice for runners who enjoy music while they train. Its GPS accuracy is reliable, allowing users to track their routes and distances with confidence. The watch supports music storage for up to 500 songs, which can be streamed from popular services like Spotify, Amazon Music, or Deezer, making it perfect for those who want to run without carrying their phones. Battery life is impressive as well, offering up to 14 days in smartwatch mode and 30 hours in GPS mode, catering to both casual and serious runners.

Strengths are evident in its user-friendly interface and advanced health monitoring features. The always-on, full-color display is easy to read, even in bright sunlight. Heart rate monitoring and tracking of sleep and heart rate variability add valuable insights for those looking to optimize their training and recovery. The adaptive training plans provided by Garmin Coach are a huge plus, offering personalized workouts that adjust based on performance and recovery.

There are a few drawbacks to consider. While it excels in many areas, it lacks some advanced smartwatch functionalities found in competitors, such as extensive app ecosystems or voice assistant capabilities. Additionally, while the music feature enhances the running experience, it requires a subscription for popular music services, which may not appeal to everyone. The watch is also designed primarily for runners, so those seeking multi-sport options might find it somewhat limiting unless paired with additional accessories like the Running Dynamics Pod.

Customer Highlights

A summary of real customer reviews to highlight what shoppers are saying!
GPS Accuracy
The watch excels in tracking indoor and outdoor runs, as well as walks, with impressive accuracy in automatic activity detection.
Music Storage and Playback
The music functionality is flawless, enabling users to run with just the watch and earbuds, leaving the phone behind.
Battery Life
The battery life is fantastic, allowing you to see the watch with a side glimpse without having to raise your hand constantly.
Heart Rate Monitoring
Setting up the Garmin 255 Music is super easy, and the GPS accuracy and heart rate monitoring are spot on, making it perfect for serious fitness enthusiasts.
Durability and Water Resistance
The watch fits very well and works perfectly for swimming too, with tons of great features and extensive battery life.
User Interface and Ease of Use
Activity tracking is light years beyond Fitbit and Apple Watch, with the five-button interface enhancing the running experience.
Connectivity and Compatibility
As a smartwatch, it reliably shows notifications and supports emergency contact messaging if your phone is with you.

Buying Guide for the Best Gps Running Watch With Music

Choosing the right GPS running watch with music capabilities can significantly enhance your running experience. These watches not only track your runs with precision but also allow you to enjoy your favorite tunes without needing to carry a separate music device. To make an informed decision, it's important to understand the key specifications and how they align with your personal needs and preferences.
GPS AccuracyGPS accuracy is crucial for tracking your running routes, distance, and pace accurately. A watch with high GPS accuracy ensures that the data you receive is reliable, which is important for monitoring your progress and setting goals. GPS accuracy can vary based on the technology used; some watches use multiple satellite systems (like GPS, GLONASS, and Galileo) to improve precision. If you run in areas with dense tree cover or tall buildings, a watch with multi-satellite support will provide better accuracy.
Music Storage and PlaybackMusic storage and playback allow you to listen to music directly from your watch without needing a phone. This feature is important for runners who find motivation in music and prefer a lightweight setup. Watches typically offer different storage capacities, ranging from a few hundred songs to several gigabytes. Consider how much music you want to store and whether the watch supports your preferred music streaming services. If you have a large music library or use specific streaming services, ensure the watch meets these needs.
Battery LifeBattery life determines how long your watch can operate before needing a recharge. This is especially important for long-distance runners or those who use their watch for multiple activities throughout the day. Battery life can vary significantly, with some watches offering just a few hours of GPS and music playback, while others can last for days. If you run long distances or frequently forget to charge your devices, opt for a watch with extended battery life.
Heart Rate MonitoringHeart rate monitoring tracks your heart rate during runs, providing insights into your fitness level and helping you train more effectively. This feature is important for runners who want to monitor their intensity and ensure they are training within their target heart rate zones. Some watches offer continuous heart rate monitoring, while others provide it only during workouts. If heart rate data is crucial for your training, choose a watch with accurate and continuous monitoring capabilities.
Water ResistanceWater resistance ensures that your watch can withstand sweat, rain, and even swimming. This is important for runners who train in various weather conditions or want to use their watch for other water-based activities. Water resistance is typically measured in meters, with higher values indicating better protection. If you run in the rain or swim regularly, look for a watch with a higher water resistance rating.
Connectivity and CompatibilityConnectivity and compatibility refer to how well the watch integrates with other devices and apps. This is important for syncing your data, receiving notifications, and accessing additional features. Watches may offer Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, and ANT+ connectivity, and compatibility with various smartphones and fitness apps. If you rely on specific apps or want to receive notifications on your watch, ensure it offers the necessary connectivity and compatibility.
Durability and Build QualityDurability and build quality determine how well the watch can withstand the rigors of regular use. This is important for runners who train frequently and in diverse environments. Watches made from high-quality materials like stainless steel, sapphire glass, and durable polymers tend to last longer and resist damage. If you run in tough conditions or want a watch that will last, prioritize models with robust build quality.
User Interface and Ease of UseThe user interface and ease of use affect how easily you can navigate the watch's features and settings. This is important for runners who want a seamless experience without fumbling with controls during a run. Watches with intuitive interfaces, responsive touchscreens, and easy-to-press buttons are generally more user-friendly. If you prefer simplicity and quick access to features, choose a watch with a straightforward and accessible user interface.

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