Top 10 Smartwatches for Sports in 2024: In recent years, sports-focused smartwatches have transformed the way athletes and fitness enthusiasts track and improve their performance. These wearable devices provide key insights that go beyond basic steps and calorie counts, offering real-time stats on speed, distance, heart rate, and recovery—features essential for serious training.
Whether you’re a runner, cyclist, swimmer, or multisport athlete, a smartwatch tailored for sports can help you maximize your training. This list of the top 10 sports smartwatches in 2024 highlights models with exceptional GPS, durable design, advanced health monitoring, and long battery life, so you can find the perfect fit for your needs and goals.
1. Garmin Forerunner 965
The Garmin Forerunner 965 is a top-tier smartwatch for runners and serious athletes, packed with advanced features designed for performance tracking. Its focus on accurate data makes it popular among marathoners and triathletes.
- Key Features: The Forerunner 965 includes advanced GPS for precise location tracking, real-time performance data, VO2 Max measurement, pulse oximeter, and heart rate tracking. It also provides insights into post-workout recovery and fatigue.
- Battery Life: Lasts up to 23 days in smartwatch mode and up to 31 hours in GPS mode.
- Pros: Accurate tracking, robust battery life, lightweight design.
- Cons: Pricey compared to other models.
- Best For: Serious runners, marathoners, and triathletes.
The Forerunner 965’s focus on granular data makes it ideal for athletes who want to analyze their training in depth.
2. Apple Watch Ultra 2
For iPhone users, the Apple Watch Ultra 2 offers both style and substance, packed with sports-focused features and an emphasis on health metrics.
- Key Features: This model provides dual-frequency GPS for highly accurate tracking, advanced health monitoring (including heart rate, ECG, and blood oxygen), and supports Apple Fitness+ for guided workouts.
- Battery Life: Up to 36 hours, with fast-charging capabilities.
- Pros: High-quality display, excellent health tracking, seamless integration with the Apple ecosystem.
- Cons: Battery life could be longer for intense, multi-day activities.
- Best For: Apple users who want premium health and fitness tracking.
With its comprehensive fitness tracking and integration with Apple’s services, the Ultra 2 is excellent for iPhone users who prioritize both style and function.
3. Polar Grit X Pro
Polar Grit X Pro is the go-to choice for outdoor enthusiasts, built to withstand tough environments and provide essential data for adventure sports.
- Key Features: The Grit X Pro has military-grade durability, ensuring it withstands extreme conditions. It includes features like Hill Splitter (for terrain tracking), FuelWise (for smart energy refueling), and comprehensive recovery data.
- Battery Life: Up to 40 hours with GPS and heart rate tracking.
- Pros: Great for outdoor adventures, durable build, unique tracking for rugged sports.
- Cons: Fewer smartphone-compatible features.
- Best For: Hikers, mountain bikers, and those who love outdoor adventures.
This smartwatch is perfect for anyone looking to take their training off the beaten path, offering tailored insights for trail runners and outdoor athletes.
4. Suunto 9 Peak Pro
The Suunto 9 Peak Pro combines durability with high-performance metrics, especially beneficial for endurance athletes who need reliable tracking for long sessions.
- Key Features: It comes with built-in GPS, barometric altitude, personalized coaching, and supports over 80 sport modes, from trail running to snowboarding.
- Battery Life: Up to 170 hours in Tour mode, making it one of the longest-lasting on the list.
- Pros: Exceptional battery life, lightweight, sleek design.
- Cons: Limited app compatibility.
- Best For: Endurance athletes, ultra-marathoners, and high-altitude explorers.
For those who need long battery life without sacrificing performance, the Suunto 9 Peak Pro is ideal.
5. Coros Apex 2 Pro
The Coros Apex 2 Pro is known for its long battery life and robust tracking features, making it perfect for backcountry adventures and ultra-running.
- Key Features: Includes dual-frequency GNSS for precise location tracking, blood oxygen levels, altitude acclimation, and customizable display options.
- Battery Life: An impressive 75 hours in GPS mode.
- Pros: Long-lasting battery, reliable GPS, affordable for its feature set.
- Cons: Limited app ecosystem compared to bigger brands.
- Best For: Trail runners, endurance athletes, and explorers.
With its impressive battery and durable design, the Coros Apex 2 Pro is perfect for athletes who prioritize longevity.
6. Fitbit Charge 6
A more affordable option, the Fitbit Charge 6 is an excellent choice for fitness enthusiasts who want a user-friendly, dependable device.
- Key Features: Heart rate monitoring, built-in GPS, sleep tracking, and access to guided workouts via the Fitbit ecosystem.
- Battery Life: Up to 7 days, with multiple fitness modes.
- Pros: Affordable, lightweight, easy to navigate.
- Cons: Lacks some advanced features.
- Best For: Gym-goers, recreational runners, and casual fitness enthusiasts.
Fitbit Charge 6’s simplicity makes it a great fit for those looking for accessible fitness tracking without excessive features.
7. Samsung Galaxy Watch6 Pro
Android users looking for a multifunctional device will appreciate the Samsung Galaxy Watch6 Pro, which balances high-tech features with a sporty design.
- Key Features: Body composition analysis, ECG monitoring, blood oxygen tracking, and advanced sleep tracking.
- Battery Life: Up to 40 hours with regular use.
- Pros: Excellent display, versatile health tracking.
- Cons: Battery life can drain quickly with continuous GPS use.
- Best For: Android users who want a balance of smartwatch and sports features.
The Galaxy Watch6 Pro’s versatility makes it a great choice for anyone who needs a well-rounded smartwatch experience.
8. Amazfit T-Rex Pro
For those on a budget who need durability and reliable fitness tracking, the Amazfit T-Rex Pro is an ideal option.
- Key Features: Offers 100+ sports modes, high-precision GPS, military-grade durability, and weather monitoring.
- Battery Life: Up to 18 days with standard usage.
- Pros: Affordable, rugged design, excellent battery life.
- Cons: Fewer app integrations.
- Best For: Outdoor adventurers and budget-conscious athletes.
The T-Rex Pro’s rugged build and affordability make it a standout choice for outdoor fitness.
9. Garmin Fenix 7
The Garmin Fenix 7 is one of the most advanced smartwatches on the market, tailored for multisport athletes who demand top-tier tracking and durability.
- Key Features: Built-in maps, multiple GNSS systems, solar charging, real-time stamina tracking, and endurance metrics.
- Battery Life: Up to 57 days in smartwatch mode with solar charging.
- Pros: Comprehensive tracking, solar-powered battery.
- Cons: Expensive.
- Best For: Extreme athletes and those who need advanced multisport tracking.
With solar charging and unmatched data insights, the Garmin Fenix 7 is perfect for elite athletes who need all-day battery and accuracy.
10. Huawei Watch GT 3 Pro
The Huawei Watch GT 3 Pro offers a refined design with essential sports features, making it a versatile option for those who want both style and substance.
- Key Features: Specialized modes for golf, skiing, and water sports, as well as accurate heart rate and SpO2 tracking.
- Battery Life: Up to 14 days.
- Pros: Stylish design, long battery life, diverse sports tracking.
- Cons: Limited app support.
- Best For: Athletes who want a stylish smartwatch without sacrificing sports tracking.
For those who seek elegance in their sports smartwatch, the Huawei Watch GT 3 Pro balances looks with practical features.
Conclusion
Choosing the right sports smartwatch can transform your workouts and help you make informed decisions about your fitness goals. The top 10 smartwatches in this guide cater to a variety of athletic needs, from casual gym-goers to serious athletes and adventurers.
Here’s a quick recap:
- For running and endurance: Garmin Forerunner 965 and Suunto 9 Peak Pro are unbeatable.
- For outdoor adventures: Polar Grit X Pro and Coros Apex 2 Pro offer long-lasting battery life and rugged durability.
- For versatile fitness tracking: The Apple Watch Ultra 2 and Samsung Galaxy Watch6 Pro provide extensive health data and fitness app integration.
- For budget-friendly options: Amazfit T-Rex Pro and Fitbit Charge 6 offer great features at an affordable price.
When selecting a sports smartwatch, consider your preferred activities, desired features, and whether it integrates well with your smartphone. With these choices, there’s a smartwatch on this list to help every athlete reach new heights in 2024.
