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Accessory Reviews > Top 5 Running Watches in 2026
Top 5 Running Watches in 2026
By Runners Gear Guide - Last updated - Jan 5, 2026
Every step you take is more than just a stride. The right running watch turns your workouts into a personalized experience, helping you track performance, monitor health, and navigate new routes with ease. From advanced models loaded with features to budget-friendly options that cover the essentials, there is a watch for every runner. Whether you are chasing a personal best or simply logging consistent miles, the right device can keep you motivated and informed.
To provide trustworthy recommendations, we reviewed each watch based on key factors such as battery life, screen clarity, weight, water resistance, sleep tracking, and overall value. Long battery life is important for extended training sessions, while a readable display and lightweight design make the watch comfortable and practical during every run. Water resistance allows training in any weather, and sleep tracking gives insight into recovery and overall wellness. This guide highlights the top five running watches of 2026, showing their strengths and features so you can find the right companion for every run.
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Here are the top watches for you!
#1 Option
#2 Option
#3 Option
Watch 1
Watch 2
Watch 3
1. Garmin
Forerunner 970
Forerunner 570
When it comes to running watches, Garmin continues to set the standard , and the Garmin Forerunner 970 and Forerunner 570 are standout additions to the lineup. Both deliver the essential features runners rely on—accurate GPS, heart rate monitoring, and deep performance metrics—but they’re tailored to different needs and budgets. Whether you're training for your next big race or want a dependable watch to guide your daily workouts, these models offer strong value. The decision ultimately depends on which features matter most to you.
The Forerunner 970 is Garmin’s new premium running watch, packed with top-tier features like a 1.4” AMOLED display, a durable sapphire lens, and a titanium-like build. It offers up to 15 days of battery life in smartwatch mode and includes advanced tools like Garmin’s new EKG app for heart health monitoring. One standout addition is the built-in LED flashlight, which comes in handy for early morning or nighttime runs. With detailed performance metrics, real-time stamina tracking, and full-color maps for navigation, the 970 is built for serious runners who want maximum insight and utility on every run.
Meanwhile, the Forerunner 570 brings many of the same core features in a more affordable and approachable package. It sports a vibrant AMOLED screen, tracks advanced sleep stages, and includes key training tools like Training Readiness and Running Dynamics. Available in two sizes (42mm and 47mm), it delivers up to 11 days of battery life and introduces a unique "Evening Report" feature that summarizes your recovery needs, next-day workout suggestions, and weather outlook. If you want a reliable, feature-rich Garmin watch without paying top dollar, the 570 is a fantastic choice that still covers everything most runners need.
2. Apple
Ultra 3
Series 11
When it comes to Apple’s running-friendly smartwatches, the Apple Watch Ultra 3 and Apple Watch Series 11 both bring a lot to the table, but they are built with slightly different runners in mind. Whether you are stacking easy miles before work or heading out for a long run that turns into an adventure, both watches offer excellent GPS accuracy, deep health tracking, and tight iPhone integration. The real difference comes down to how hard you push your training and how much durability and battery life you need on your wrist.
The Ultra 3 is clearly aimed at runners who think in terms of long days and big efforts. Its rugged titanium case, larger and brighter display, and significantly longer battery life make it a great choice for marathoners, trail runners, and anyone flirting with ultras. The improved battery means fewer worries on long runs, and features like dual-frequency GPS and the action button are genuinely useful when you are tired, sweaty, and just want to start a workout without fumbling. It feels like a watch built for runners who plan routes where getting lost or running out of juice is not an option.
The Series 11, on the other hand, is a better fit for most everyday runners. It is lighter on the wrist, more comfortable for all-day wear, and still delivers accurate tracking for workouts, sleep, and recovery. If your training is mostly road running, treadmill miles, or shorter long runs, the Series 11 does everything you need without the extra bulk. Both watches are excellent, but the choice is simple. Go with the Ultra 3 if your running regularly pushes past comfort zones and into long or remote territory. Choose the Series 11 if you want a dependable, lightweight training partner that fits seamlessly into daily life.
3. SUUNTO
Race 2
Race S
When choosing between the Suunto Race 2 and the Suunto Race S, it really comes down to how big you want to go with your training and racing. The Race 2 leans into a bigger, bolder experience with its large AMOLED display that is easy to read when you are deep into a long run or grinding up a climb. The Race S keeps things more compact and lighter on the wrist, which many runners appreciate for daily training and racing when comfort matters just as much as features.
Battery life is where the Race 2 really separates itself. With significantly longer GPS runtime, it is better suited for ultramarathons, long trail days, or back to back training sessions where charging is not always convenient. The Race S still delivers solid battery life for most runners, easily covering long runs, workouts, and even marathon race days, but it is clearly aimed at athletes who value a lighter watch over maximum endurance.
Both watches deliver the core Suunto strengths like accurate GPS, reliable training metrics, sleep tracking, and durable builds that can handle tough conditions. If you want a big, bright screen and the confidence to head out for very long efforts without watching your battery percentage, the Race 2 is the better pick. If you prefer a more streamlined feel that disappears on your wrist while still giving you everything you need for structured training and racing, the Race S is a great fit. Neither choice is wrong. It just depends on whether your running leans more toward all day adventures or efficient, everyday performance.
4. Coros
VERTIX 2S
APEX 4
When it comes to choosing between the COROS Vertix 2S and the COROS Apex 4, both watches are clearly built with runners and endurance athletes in mind, but they serve slightly different needs. Both use a Memory in Pixel display, which means you are trading flashy colors for excellent readability in bright sunlight and longer battery life. For runners who spend a lot of time outdoors, especially on trails or exposed routes, this kind of screen is easy to appreciate when you want to glance down and instantly see your pace or distance without fighting glare.
Battery life is where the Vertix 2S really flexes. With up to 118 hours of standard GPS, it is designed for ultra runners, long mountain days, and multi day adventures where charging just is not part of the plan. The Apex 4 still delivers strong battery performance, easily covering long runs, marathon race days, and heavy training weeks, but it is aimed more at everyday endurance rather than extreme edge cases. If your longest efforts stay under a day or two, the Apex 4 has more than enough juice to keep up.
The final decision comes down to how big and rugged you want your watch to be. The Vertix 2S is tougher, heavier, and clearly built for runners who regularly push into ultra distance territory or harsh conditions. The Apex 4 is lighter on the wrist and more comfortable for daily wear, making it a great option for runners who train consistently and race often but still want long battery life and reliable tracking. Both are excellent tools, but the right one depends on whether your running goals lean more toward all day endurance or balanced daily performance.
5. Polar
Grit X2 Pro
Vantage M3
When it comes to picking a running watch, the Polar Grit X2 Pro and the Polar Vantage M3 both bring strong features to the table, but they serve slightly different types of runners. The Grit X2 Pro stands out with its large 1.39‑inch AMOLED display, making it easy to check your stats even in bright sunlight. It also features dual‑frequency GPS for precise tracking on tricky terrain, which is ideal for trail runners and adventurers who want every detail of their route recorded. The Vantage M3 has a slightly smaller 1.28‑inch AMOLED display but still offers clear visibility for daily training and racing, making it a lighter, more streamlined option on your wrist.
Battery life is another key difference. The Grit X2 Pro delivers up to 43 hours of GPS use and up to 10 days in smartwatch mode, which makes it perfect for ultra-distance runs or multi‑day adventures where charging is not an option. The Vantage M3 offers up to 30 hours of GPS and about 7 days in smartwatch mode, which is plenty for most runners, daily workouts, and standard races. Both watches are water resistant, with the Grit X2 Pro rated for 100 meters and the Vantage M3 for 50 meters, so a little rain or sweat won’t slow you down.
Both watches cover essential health tracking, including sleep monitoring and heart rate tracking. The Grit X2 Pro goes a step further with advanced metrics like SpO2 monitoring and ECG readings, giving serious athletes more insights into performance and recovery. The Vantage M3 keeps things balanced with solid tracking and a lighter, more comfortable design for everyday wear. If you want a rugged watch built for long adventures and full-featured health monitoring, the Grit X2 Pro is the way to go. If you prefer something lighter and still capable for training and races, the Vantage M3 hits that sweet spot. Both are excellent tools for staying on top of your running goals.
