How to Choose A Running Watch
Updated: May 20, 2024
A GPS watch serves as a tool to help you get the most from your run and can elevate your training. Several basic functions are common to all running GPS watches, but many offer dozens of additional features as well. Sifting through the countless options available can be overwhelming, so in this guide, we'll break down the basics to help you find a watch that meets all your needs. Looking for specific recommendations? Check out our guide on the Best GPS Watches for our top picks.
Features of All Running GPS Watches
All GPS watches are able to perform the following basic functions:
| Measure Speed and Distance | Displays how fast and far you are running during your workout. |
| Clock | Can be used as a daily watch for viewing the current time and day. |
| Workout History | Stores previous workouts so you can access the information after your run. The amount of memory will vary depending on how advanced the watch is. |
| Minimum Battery Life | Every GPS watch at Running Warehouse features at least 5 hours of battery life while in GPS mode. |
| Rechargeable Battery | Can be recharged via USB or an alternate charger. |
| Automated Laps | Automatically marks each lap at a preset distance (usually miles or kilometers), so you don't have to manually mark each lap. |
Other Common Features
Many GPS watches additionally have one or more of the following functions:
| Data Upload | The option to transfer your workout history to an online platform for further review and additional information about your run. Most watch manufacturers have their own online training programs, but many also offer the ability to transfer data to familiar programs like Strava or RunKeeper. |
| Customizable Screens | The ability to change the type and quantity of information displayed on the screen during your run, ensuring you see all the info. you need and nothing you don't. Some even allow you to create multiple "pages" of information that you can scroll through to view even more data during your run. |
| Heart Rate Monitor (HRM) | Heart rate tracking is useful for measuring the intensity of your workout. A lot of GPS watches offer a built-in optical HRM that measures your pulse at the wrist. Another option is to purchase a compatible chest strap HRM, which provides the most accurate reading. |
| Auto Pause | Pauses the workout when you stop running. This feature can be helpful when running in town and encountering several stoplights, so you don't have to keep manually starting and stopping your workout. |
| Activity Tracking | Records your movement and daily activity, such as steps taken, calories burned, and distance traveled. Some even track the quality of sleep and notify you to get up and move if you've been sitting for too long. |
| Run/Walk Alerts | Allows you to customize time intervals that prompt you to run or walk during a workout. Typically, the watch accepts an unlimited number of intervals to alternate between running and walking. |
| Accelerometer | If you're running indoors, the watch won't be able to connect to GPS satellites, but a built-in accelerometer can keep your workout tracking going. It can track distance and speed by measuring your arm swing, thereby eliminating the need for a foot pod or other device when running indoors. |
| Intervals | Incorporates simple or advanced workouts, where you can specify how far and fast you want to run for each interval. More advanced workouts include multiple paces and distances in a single workout. |
Advanced Features
Some more advanced GPS watches include one or more of these training features:
| Track Multiple Types of Workouts | If you're looking to track multiple workouts (in addition to running), like swimming and cycling, several GPS watches allow workout modes. Some watches, referred to as multisport watches, allow you to perform multiple activities in one workout and offer features like transition timing and advanced timing info for each activity. Less advanced watches still provide customizable screens depending on the sport but don't offer additional training data for other sports besides running. |
| Training Estimates | When paired with an HRM, these GPS watches provide an in-depth analysis of the runner's training load. For example, some watches can predict the runner's finishing time for a race time based on their current training and can also advise the runner on how long it will take the body to recover after a given workout. |
| Navigational Features | Offers features like a built-in electronic compass, the option to reroute back to where you started, and the ability to load pre-designated courses. Watches with navigational features are ideal for trail runners or outdoor enthusiasts. |
| Altitude | Displays the current altitude and the amount of elevation gained during a given workout. These watches either use elevation data gathered from GPS coordinates or include a barometric altimeter for more accurate elevation data. |
| Long Battery Life | While the battery life will vary between all models, some GPS watches offer particularly long battery life (over 20 hours) while in GPS mode. These are generally more advanced watches and are accompanied by a higher price tag. |
| Race Widgets | Designed to aid users during races or timed events. This feature allows for goal setting and real-time tracking of performance metrics like time, distance, and pace. It may also include virtual partner features for competition or pace guidance, enhancing the overall race experience and helping athletes optimize their performance. |
| Oximeters | By shining light through the skin, this feature allows for Monitoring SpO2 levels so that athletes can adjust their pace or activities to optimize performance. This feature is particularly useful for athletes during high-altitude activities, providing insight into oxygen levels in the bloodstream. |
How to Choose Between the Options
No one wants to spend more money than they have to, and since a lot of watches provide more info than you need, how do you know exactly what you need from a watch? Here are a few steps to help you decide which watch is best for you:
1. Decide what information you want the watch to give you
-
- Just distance, pace, and time? Choose a basic or mid-level watch.
- Heart rate data? Choose a watch with an HRM.
- Daily activity tracking? Choose a basic watch that offers activity tracking.
- Advanced training info? Choose a mid-level or advanced watch.
- Training data on multiple sports or activities? Choose a multisport watch.
2. Decide how much you want to spend
Entry level or basic GPS watches start at $200 and are ideal for beginner runners or runners simply looking to record distance and pace without many extra features. They typically include:
-
- Basic GPS watch functionality
- One or two additional features such as auto pause or activity tracking
Mid-level watches cost around $400 and are ideal for intermediate runners or runners looking to gather data from their runs to ensure that they are getting the most from their training. Common functions include:
-
- Basic GPS functionality
- Additional features such as a built-in accelerometer, run/walk alerts, training estimates, and interval training options
- Longer battery life
Advanced watches or multisport watches cost around $500 or higher and are ideal for runners looking for in-depth training data for multiple sports. Advanced features include:
-
- Basic and advanced running GPS watch functionality
- Most or all advanced features offered by that brand, and advanced training data when paired with an HRM
- Modes for different activities as well as additional training data for non-running activities
- Longest battery life
- Triathlon-specific settings like transition timing
Summary
Ultimately, when shopping for a GPS watch, it's important to consider exactly what features you need, as well as what other functions may become useful in the future. Before making your final decision, do some research. There's heaps of helpful information, comparisons, and reviews on the internet, and a quick browse online can save you time, money, and future frustration.
