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

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.

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.

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.