In 2025, a smartwatch with GPS is a must-have for anyone who loves outdoor activities, fitness tracking, or simply wants to stay connected without carrying a phone. These versatile devices offer precise location tracking, route mapping, and advanced fitness metrics, making them ideal for runners, hikers, cyclists, and adventurers. This smartwatch buying guide explores the best options for a smartwatch with GPS, along with tips on smartwatch setup, smartwatch maintenance, and more. Whether you’re navigating trails or tracking your daily run, our guide will help you choose the perfect smartwatch to keep you on track.
Why Choose a Smartwatch with GPS in 2025?
A smartwatch with GPS offers more than just timekeeping—it provides real-time navigation, accurate workout data, and safety features like location tracking. Unlike basic fitness trackers, these smartwatches use Global Navigation Satellite Systems (GNSS), including GPS, GLONASS, Galileo, and BeiDou, to pinpoint your location with remarkable accuracy, even in challenging environments like dense forests or urban canyons. This best smartwatch guide highlights why a smartwatch with GPS is essential for outdoor enthusiasts and how it enhances your daily routine. From fitness tracking to smartwatch safety, these devices are packed with features to elevate your experience.
Key Features of a Smartwatch with GPS
Before diving into our top picks, let’s explore the essential features to look for in a smartwatch with GPS, as outlined in this smartwatch buying guide:
- GPS Accuracy: Look for dual-frequency or multi-band GPS for superior precision, especially in areas with obstacles like tall buildings or trees.
- Battery Life: GPS usage drains batteries, so opt for models with long-lasting power, especially for multi-day adventures.
- Navigation Tools: Features like breadcrumb mapping, topographic maps, and route planning enhance outdoor usability.
- Fitness Tracking: GPS-enabled watches track distance, speed, elevation, and more for running, cycling, and hiking.
- Durability: Choose a watch with at least 5ATM water resistance and rugged materials for outdoor use.
Top 5 Smartwatches with GPS in 2025
This smartwatch buying guide highlights five standout models with built-in GPS, tailored to different needs and budgets. Each offers precise tracking and robust features for fitness and navigation.
1. Apple Watch Ultra 2: Best for iPhone Users
Price: Starting at $799
Why Choose It: The Apple Watch Ultra 2 is a premium smartwatch with GPS, featuring dual-frequency GPS for pinpoint accuracy, even in dense urban areas or forests. Its 49mm titanium case, 100m water resistance, and up to 36-hour battery life make it ideal for adventurers. The ultra-bright OLED display ensures readability in sunlight, and features like depth sensing and topographic maps enhance outdoor use.
Key Features:
- Dual-frequency GPS with Apple Maps integration
- 36-hour battery life; 12 hours in dual-frequency GPS mode
- 100m water resistance for diving
- Health tracking: heart rate, ECG, sleep apnea detection
- Customizable Action button for quick navigation
Best For: iPhone users seeking a rugged, feature-rich portable smartwatch for outdoor activities and daily use.
Setup Tip: For how to connect smartwatch to phone, pair via the Apple Watch app on your iPhone, ensuring Bluetooth is enabled for seamless smartwatch setup.
2. Garmin Forerunner 965: Best for Runners
Price: Starting at $599
Why Choose It: The Garmin Forerunner 965 is a top-tier smartwatch with GPS for runners, offering multi-band GPS for exceptional accuracy. With a 1.4” AMOLED display and up to 19 hours of battery life in dual-frequency GPS mode, it’s perfect for long runs or hikes. It includes topographic maps, training load metrics, and a lightweight 53g design.
Key Features:
- Multi-band GPS with pre-downloaded topographic maps
- 19 hours in dual-frequency GPS mode; 23 days in smartwatch mode
- 5ATM water resistance
- Advanced metrics: running dynamics, VO2 Max, recovery time
- Garmin Pay and music storage
Best For: Runners and multisport athletes needing precise GPS and detailed analytics.
Troubleshooting Tip: For smartwatch troubleshooting, update firmware via Garmin Connect to ensure GPS accuracy in challenging environments.
3. Samsung Galaxy Watch Ultra: Best for Android Adventurers
Price: Starting at $649
Why Choose It: The Samsung Galaxy Watch Ultra is a rugged smartwatch with GPS for Android users, featuring dual-frequency GPS and a 47mm titanium case. With up to 100 hours of battery life in smartwatch mode and 5ATM water resistance, it’s built for tough conditions. Its AMOLED display and Google Gemini AI enhance navigation and usability.
Key Features:
- Dual-frequency GPS with GLONASS, Galileo, BeiDou
- 100-hour battery life; 48 hours with always-on display
- 5ATM water resistance and MIL-STD-810H durability
- Health tracking: ECG, sleep apnea, antioxidant index
- Quick Button for navigation shortcuts
Best For: Android users tackling outdoor adventures with a need for long battery life.
Maintenance Tip: For smartwatch cleaning, use a microfiber cloth to wipe the display and avoid harsh chemicals to protect sensors.
4. COROS Pace 3: Best Budget GPS Smartwatch
Price: Starting at $229
Why Choose It: The COROS Pace 3 is a budget-friendly smartwatch with GPS, offering 30+ hours of GPS usage and up to two weeks in smartwatch mode. Its lightweight 30g design and dual-frequency GPS make it a great choice for runners and hikers on a budget.
Key Features:
- Dual-frequency GPS for accurate tracking
- 30+ hours in GPS mode; 14 days in smartwatch mode
- 5ATM water resistance
- Breadcrumb navigation and route planning
- Heart rate, VO2 Max, and training load metrics
Best For: Budget-conscious users seeking reliable GPS for fitness and navigation.
Tip: Sync with the COROS app for route planning and detailed workout analysis.
5. TickTalk 5: Best for Kids
Price: Starting at $159
Why Choose It: The TickTalk 5 is the top smartwatch with GPS for kids, featuring AI-powered SmartPin location correction for precise tracking. With a 770mAh battery, IP67 water resistance, and parent-controlled features like Safe Zones, it’s perfect for keeping kids safe.
Key Features:
- GPS with AI-enhanced SmartPin accuracy
- 137 hours on standby
- IP67 water resistance
- Safe Zone alerts and SOS button
- HD voice and video calls
Best For: Parents seeking a kid-friendly smartwatch with GPS for safety and communication.
How to Choose a Smartwatch with GPS
This smartwatch buying guide outlines key considerations for selecting the best smartwatch with GPS:
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- Activity Type: Runners need precise pace and distance tracking (Garmin Forerunner 965), while hikers benefit from topographic maps (Apple Watch Ultra 2).
- Battery Life: For multi-day trips, choose models like the Samsung Galaxy Watch Ultra or COROS Pace 3.
- Compatibility: Ensure the watch pairs with your phone—Apple Watch for iOS, Samsung for Android, and Garmin or COROS for both.
- Budget: Premium models start at $599 (Garmin), while budget options like COROS Pace 3 are under $250.
- Durability: Look for 5ATM or higher water resistance and rugged materials for outdoor use.
Pro Tip: For more comparisons, visit smartwatchus.com for a detailed wearable guide.
How to Use a Smartwatch with GPS
Maximize your smartwatch with GPS with these how to use a smartwatch tips:
- Setup: Pair with your phone using the companion app (e.g., Garmin Connect, Samsung Wearable). Enable GPS and calibrate in an open area for accuracy.
- Navigation: Use breadcrumb trails or topographic maps for hiking; track pace and distance for running.
- Battery Management: Disable unnecessary features like SpO2 or always-on display to extend GPS battery life.
- App Integration: Sync with apps like Strava or Komoot for route sharing and analysis.
Troubleshooting Tip: If GPS accuracy falters, ensure a clear view of the sky and update firmware to resolve smartwatch troubleshooting issues.
Smartwatch Maintenance and Cleaning
Keep your smartwatch with GPS in top condition with these smartwatch maintenance tips:
- Cleaning: Wipe with a microfiber cloth; use mild soap and water for deeper smartwatch cleaning, avoiding ports and sensors.
- Strap Care: Clean silicone straps with water; use specialized cleaners for leather.
- Protection: Avoid extreme temperatures and prolonged water exposure beyond the rated resistance.
- Storage: Store in a cool, dry place to preserve battery life.
Smartwatch Safety Tips
Ensure safe use with these smartwatch safety practices:
- Skin Health: Loosen the strap or switch to hypoallergenic materials if irritation occurs.
- Data Privacy: Secure health and location data with strong passwords and app permission reviews.
- Charging: Use the manufacturer’s charger to avoid damage.
Conclusion: Finding Your Ideal Smartwatch with GPS
A smartwatch with GPS is a game-changer for fitness enthusiasts, adventurers, and parents seeking safety features. The Apple Watch Ultra 2 excels for iPhone users, while the Garmin Forerunner 965 is a runner’s dream. Android users will love the Samsung Galaxy Watch Ultra’s rugged design, and budget buyers can rely on the COROS Pace 3. For kids, the TickTalk 5 offers peace of mind with precise tracking. This smartwatch buying guide equips you with the knowledge to choose the right device, backed by tips for smartwatch setup, maintenance, and safety. Explore more at maintenance tips on smartwatchus.com, your go-to best smartwatch guide for 2025.
Invest in a smartwatch with GPS today and navigate your adventures with confidence and precision.
