If you’re looking for the best GPS running watches with music in 2025, I’d recommend options like the Garmin Forerunner 165 Music, Garmin Forerunner 255 Music, and Garmin Forerunner 245 Music, which offer excellent fitness tracking and music storage or streaming. Models like the AMOLED display watches also provide vibrant visuals and versatile features. Keep in mind your preferred features and budget. If you continue exploring, I’ll help you find the perfect fit for your workout needs.
Key Takeaways
- Top models like Garmin Forerunner 165 Music and Garmin Forerunner® 255 Music offer extensive music storage and streaming for diverse workout needs.
- High-resolution AMOLED displays ensure bright, detailed visuals and easy navigation during runs and outdoor activities.
- Long battery life in GPS and smartwatch modes supports extended workouts and uninterrupted music playback.
- Advanced fitness tracking features, including heart rate, SpO₂, recovery insights, and multiple sport profiles, enhance training effectiveness.
- Compatibility with popular streaming services and wireless headphones enables phone-free music and seamless workout experience.
Garmin Forerunner 165 Music Smartwatch
If you’re looking for a lightweight, feature-packed GPS running watch with music capabilities, the Garmin Forerunner 165 Music Smartwatch is an excellent choice. Its sleek 43mm design makes it comfortable for long runs, while the vibrant AMOLED touchscreen guarantees easy navigation. With built-in GPS, wrist-based heart rate monitoring, and over 25 activity profiles, it covers all your workout needs. You can download playlists from Spotify, Amazon Music, or Deezer and connect wireless headphones for phone-free listening. Plus, with up to 11 days of battery in smartwatch mode and helpful health insights like sleep and recovery data, it’s a versatile training companion.
Best For: runners and fitness enthusiasts seeking a lightweight, feature-rich GPS smartwatch with music storage and health tracking capabilities.
Pros:
- Vibrant AMOLED touchscreen for easy navigation and clear display
- Extensive activity profiles including running, cycling, and strength training
- Up to 11 days of battery life in smartwatch mode and music storage options
Cons:
- Subscription required for music streaming services like Spotify, Amazon Music, or Deezer
- Limited smartwatch features beyond fitness and health tracking
- No advanced smartwatch features such as third-party app support
Garmin Forerunner 55 GPS Running Watch
The Garmin Forerunner 55 GPS Running Watch is an excellent choice for runners seeking a straightforward yet versatile fitness tracker. Its sleek black design is customizable with free watch faces, data fields, apps, and widgets via the Connect IQ Store. It tracks heart rate, distance, speed, and routes using GPS, supporting activities like running, cycling, swimming, and HIIT. The watch offers helpful training tools, such as suggested workouts and race day features like PacePro and GPS-based pace guidance. With up to two weeks of battery life and seamless Bluetooth connectivity, it’s perfect for those wanting reliable performance tracking without unnecessary complexity.
Best For: runners and fitness enthusiasts seeking a user-friendly, versatile GPS watch with customizable features and comprehensive activity tracking.
Pros:
- Easy to use with a sleek, customizable design and free watch faces and data fields
- Accurate GPS tracking and heart rate monitoring for various activities
- Long battery life of up to 2 weeks in smartwatch mode and seamless Bluetooth connectivity
Cons:
- Heart rate monitoring at the wrist is not a medical-grade device
- Not compatible with on-device courses for race day planning features like PacePro
- Limited advanced smartwatch features compared to higher-end models
Garmin Forerunner® 255 Music GPS Running Smartwatch
The Garmin Forerunner® 255 Music GPS Running Smartwatch stands out for runners who want a lightweight, sleek design combined with impressive music capabilities. Available in 41 mm and 46 mm sizes, it features an always-on, full-color display that’s easy to read even in bright sunlight. With up to 14 days of battery life in smartwatch mode and 30 hours in GPS mode, it’s built to last through long runs. You can download up to 500 songs and stream playlists from Spotify, Amazon Music, or Deezer, connecting wireless headphones for phone-free listening. It also offers personalized training tips, sleep insights, and heart rate variability tracking to optimize your performance and recovery.
Best For: Runners seeking a lightweight, stylish GPS smartwatch with extensive music capabilities, personalized training features, and comprehensive health insights.
Pros:
- Slim, lightweight design available in 41 mm and 46 mm sizes for comfortable wear
- Long battery life of up to 14 days in smartwatch mode and 30 hours in GPS mode
- Ability to download up to 500 songs and stream playlists from popular services like Spotify, Amazon Music, and Deezer
Cons:
- Subscription required for streaming playlists from music services
- May be limited for non-runners or those seeking multi-sport features outside running
- Small display size might be less suitable for users preferring larger screens
Garmin Forerunner 245 Music GPS Running Smartwatch
For runners and fitness enthusiasts who want a lightweight, reliable smartwatch with music storage and advanced performance tracking, the Garmin Forerunner 245 Music stands out. It features a sleek, 38.5-gram design with Corning Gorilla Glass 3, a fiber-reinforced bezel, and a 1.2-inch display. You can store around 500 songs and stream via Spotify, leaving your phone behind. The watch offers extensive fitness metrics, including heart rate, SpO2, stress, and running dynamics, with reliable GPS. Its battery lasts up to a week in smartwatch mode and six hours with GPS and music. Overall, it’s a versatile, durable choice for serious runners.
Best For: runners and fitness enthusiasts seeking a lightweight, durable smartwatch with music storage, comprehensive fitness tracking, and reliable GPS.
Pros:
- Offers extensive fitness metrics including heart rate, SpO2, stress, and advanced running dynamics
- Stores up to 500 songs and streams via Spotify, enabling phone-free workouts
- Long battery life of up to 7 days in smartwatch mode and 6 hours with GPS and music active
Cons:
- Battery life can decrease over time, requiring more frequent charging
- Managing music providers and switching between services like Spotify can be cumbersome
- Occasional inaccuracies in GPS trail tracking and sleep monitoring observed by some users
Smart Watch GPS with AMOLED Display and Fitness Features
If you’re looking for a smartwatch that combines vibrant visuals with all-inclusive fitness tracking, a GPS watch with an AMOLED display is an excellent choice. Its 2.06-inch HD Always-On AMOLED screen delivers vivid, clear visuals, even in bright sunlight, thanks to anti-glare technology. The sleek, round design with customizable faces, including video uploads, adds style. It supports over 100 sports modes, tracks heart rate, SpO₂, sleep, and stress levels continuously. With built-in GPS, altimeter, and compass, it’s perfect for outdoor adventures. Plus, Bluetooth 5.4 lets you take calls and receive notifications directly on your wrist, making it both functional and fashionable.
Best For: fitness enthusiasts, casual users, and teens seeking a stylish, versatile smartwatch with comprehensive health tracking and outdoor navigation features.
Pros:
- Vivid 2.06-inch AMOLED display with anti-glare technology for clear outdoor visibility
- Supports 100+ sports modes and continuous health monitoring including heart rate, SpO₂, and sleep tracking
- Bluetooth 5.4 for seamless call handling, notifications, and music control directly from the wrist
Cons:
- No passcode lock feature for added security
- Occasional notification issues reported on iPhone devices
- Sensitive wrist gesture activation may lead to unintended interactions
Garmin vívoactive 5 GPS Smartwatch
With its bright, customizable AMOLED display and long-lasting battery, the Garmin vívoactive 5 GPS Smartwatch stands out as an excellent choice for casual exercisers and fitness enthusiasts who want reliable health tracking and smart features on a sleek, comfortable device. It features a 1.2-inch screen with 390 x 390 resolution, lightweight design, and a soft band for all-day comfort. With up to 11 days of battery life, fast charging, and durability for swimming, it’s perfect for daily wear and active lifestyles. The watch offers extensive health metrics, over 30 sport modes, and smart notifications, making it versatile and user-friendly.
Best For: casual exercisers and fitness enthusiasts seeking a reliable, stylish smartwatch with extensive health tracking and smart notifications.
Pros:
- Bright, customizable AMOLED display with high resolution for clear visuals
- Up to 11 days of battery life with fast charging capabilities
- Extensive health and fitness metrics, including over 30 sport modes and automatic activity detection
Cons:
- Lacks microphone and voice command features found in some smartwatches
- No built-in speaker, limiting certain notification interactions
- Touchscreen performance may be less responsive underwater or in bright sunlight
COROS PACE 3 GPS Sport Watch
The COROS PACE 3 GPS Sport Watch stands out for athletes who need precise tracking and long-lasting battery life during intense multisport activities. Its ultra-slim, lightweight design (just 30g) and durable construction make it comfortable for all-day wear, whether running, hiking, or swimming. The highly accurate dual-frequency GPS performs well in urban and wooded areas, supporting up to 38 hours of continuous tracking. Its customizable 1.2-inch transflective touchscreen is easy to read and navigate, while the extensive activity modes and seamless app integration deliver detailed insights. With over 20 days of battery life, it’s built for endurance and reliable performance in all conditions.
Best For: athletes and outdoor enthusiasts seeking a lightweight, durable multisport GPS watch with precise tracking and long battery life for various activities.
Pros:
- Ultra-slim, lightweight design (30g) ensures all-day comfort and distraction-free wear
- Highly accurate dual-frequency GPS with up to 38 hours of continuous tracking, suitable for endurance events
- Extensive activity modes and seamless app integration provide detailed training insights and customization
Cons:
- Lacks built-in music storage and contactless payment features
- Slightly limited display size at 1.2 inches, which may be small for some users
- Requires occasional maintenance, such as band cleaning and accessory swapping, for optimal durability
Garmin Venu 2 GPS Smartwatch with Health & Fitness Features
For runners and fitness enthusiasts seeking a stylish yet highly functional GPS smartwatch, the Garmin Venu 2 stands out with its vibrant AMOLED display and extensive health monitoring features. It offers detailed tracking, including sleep score, Body Battery, stress levels, hydration, pulse oximetry, and estimated EKG. With support for over 25 indoor and GPS sports, plus preloaded workouts and custom routines, it adapts to your training needs. You can download up to 650 songs for on-the-go listening via wireless headphones, and make contactless payments with Garmin Pay. Its sleek design, durability, and reliable notifications make it a versatile choice for elevating your workouts in 2025.
Best For: fitness enthusiasts and runners seeking a stylish, feature-rich GPS smartwatch with comprehensive health tracking and music capabilities.
Pros:
- Vibrant AMOLED display with clear, detailed visuals
- Extensive health monitoring features including sleep, stress, hydration, and EKG
- Supports multiple sports modes and custom workout routines
Cons:
- Occasional connectivity issues requiring manual sync
- Limited reply and voice response features in the standard model
- Pre-owned or refurbished condition may vary, despite testing and warranty
Garmin Forerunner 945 GPS Triathlon Smartwatch with Music
If you’re a serious athlete looking for a versatile smartwatch that can handle triathlon training and offer advanced performance metrics, the Garmin Forerunner 945 with Music stands out. It’s lightweight, measuring just 1.9 inches, with a bright, full-color display and easy navigation via responsive buttons. The watch tracks detailed metrics like VO2 Max, recovery time, and training load, while supporting multiple sports modes and onboard maps to prevent getting lost. It also allows you to download music from Spotify, Amazon Music, or Deezer, and control your playlists directly from your wrist. With excellent battery life and seamless connectivity, the Forerunner 945 truly elevates your workout experience.
Best For: serious athletes and triathlon enthusiasts seeking a comprehensive, feature-rich smartwatch for training, performance monitoring, and music on the go.
Pros:
- Advanced fitness and physiological metrics including VO2 Max, recovery time, and training load focus.
- Onboard maps and customizable sports profiles support diverse training and navigation needs.
- Music storage and playback from popular streaming services, combined with seamless smartphone connectivity.
Cons:
- Higher price point may be a barrier for casual users.
- Limited sleep tracking to one sleep event at a time, requiring manual edits for accuracy.
- Battery life can decrease significantly with continuous GPS, music, and health metrics enabled.
Garmin Forerunner 255 Music GPS Running Smartwatch
Aspiring runners who want a sleek, lightweight watch with built-in music storage and advanced performance tracking will find the Garmin Forerunner 255 Music to be an excellent choice. Its slim design comes in 41 mm and 46 mm sizes, featuring a bright, always-on color display that’s easy to read even in sunlight. With up to 14 days of battery life in smartwatch mode and 30 hours in GPS mode, it’s perfect for long runs. The watch holds 32 GB of music, supporting playlists from Spotify, Amazon Music, or Deezer, and wireless headphones for phone-free listening. Plus, it offers extensive health insights and personalized training to optimize your performance.
Best For: runners and fitness enthusiasts seeking a lightweight GPS smartwatch with built-in music storage and advanced health and performance tracking.
Pros:
- Slim, lightweight design available in 41 mm and 46 mm sizes for comfortable wear
- Up to 14 days of battery life in smartwatch mode and 30 hours in GPS mode, ideal for long-distance activities
- 32 GB of storage supporting playlists from Spotify, Amazon Music, and Deezer with wireless headphone compatibility
Cons:
- Customer reviews average only 3.9 out of 5 stars, indicating mixed user satisfaction
- Sold as a renewed item, which may affect perceived quality or warranty coverage
- Limited to smartwatches ranked #68 in renewed devices and #446 overall, reflecting a niche market for this specific model
Amazfit Bip 6 Smart Watch (46mm)
The Amazfit Bip 6 Smart Watch (46mm) stands out as an excellent choice for fitness enthusiasts who want a stylish, budget-friendly device packed with advanced features. Its lightweight aluminum frame offers durability and elegance, complemented by a vibrant 1.97-inch AMOLED display that’s easy to read outdoors. With water resistance up to 5 ATM, it’s swim-friendly, while tracking over 140 workout modes and precise GPS with offline maps makes it versatile for any activity. The watch provides all-encompassing health insights, including heart rate, SpO₂, stress, and sleep monitoring. Plus, with up to 14 days of battery life, it’s reliable for long workouts and daily use.
Best For: fitness enthusiasts seeking a stylish, affordable smartwatch with comprehensive health and activity tracking features.
Pros:
- Vibrant 1.97-inch AMOLED display with easy outdoor readability
- Extensive fitness options with 140+ workout modes and precise GPS tracking
- Long battery life of up to 14 days, ideal for extended use
Cons:
- Limited app features for food logging and some activity recognition issues
- Some users report UI quirks and language support limitations
- Voice recognition features may have restrictions and occasional inconsistencies
Garmin Forerunner 165 Music Running Smartwatch (Refurbished)
For runners who want a lightweight, feature-packed smartwatch that combines accurate GPS tracking with music capabilities, the Garmin Forerunner 165 Music is an excellent option—especially if you’re considering a refurbished device to save some money. Its 43 mm design is sleek and comfortable, with a bright AMOLED touchscreen for easy navigation and traditional buttons for quick access. It offers built-in GPS, over 25 activity profiles, wrist-based heart rate monitoring, and personalized workout suggestions. Plus, you can download music from Spotify, Amazon Music, or Deezer, connect wireless headphones, and track recovery with detailed health insights. An impressive battery life, up to 11 days in smartwatch mode, makes it perfect for long-term use.
Best For: runners seeking a lightweight, feature-rich smartwatch with accurate GPS, music streaming, and health insights, especially those considering a budget-friendly refurbished option.
Pros:
- Lightweight 43 mm design with comfortable fit and traditional button controls
- Bright AMOLED touchscreen display for intuitive navigation
- Up to 11 days of battery life in smartwatch mode, ideal for extended use
Cons:
- Music streaming requires subscriptions to Spotify, Amazon Music, or Deezer, adding to costs
- Limited to 19 hours of GPS usage, which may be restrictive for ultra-long activities
- Refurbished condition may vary, potentially affecting longevity and warranty coverage
Factors to Consider When Choosing a GPS Running Watch With Music
When choosing a GPS running watch with music, I focus on key factors like how much music it can store, how long the battery lasts, and how accurately it tracks my fitness. I also consider the display’s readability and size, as well as how well it connects and works with my devices. These points help me find a watch that fits my needs and keeps me motivated during workouts.
Music Storage Capacity
Choosing a GPS running watch with music means paying close attention to its storage capacity, which directly impacts how much music you can carry during workouts. Most devices hold between 500 to 650 songs, depending on internal memory and supported formats. If you prefer to listen to entire playlists from streaming services like Spotify, Amazon Music, or Deezer, opting for a watch with larger storage is essential. Some watches allow you to download playlists directly, reducing reliance on internet connections and streaming quality. The storage size also affects how many playlists or albums you can take along, especially if you like switching up your music for different workouts. Additionally, check if the storage is expandable via SD cards or fixed, as this influences your long-term music collection options.
Battery Performance Duration
Long-lasting battery performance is vital when selecting a GPS running watch with music, especially if you plan to extend your training sessions or participate in ultramarathons. Devices with up to 19-30 hours of GPS mode endurance let me track long-distance runs without frequent recharges. In smartwatch mode, lasting 7-14 days, I can monitor my health and daily activities continuously. However, frequent use of GPS, music, and sensors can decrease battery life over time, so managing power efficiently becomes essential. Features like offline music storage add convenience but also impact battery longevity. I need to take into account how the watch balances extended GPS use with overall battery health to make certain it supports my training without interruptions. A watch with strong battery performance makes all the difference for reliable, long-duration workouts.
Fitness Tracking Accuracy
Reliable fitness tracking hinges on the quality of sensors and algorithms that measure key metrics like heart rate, steps, and calories burned accurately. Wrist-based heart rate monitors can sometimes be less precise during intense workouts or rapid movements, making chest straps a better option for accuracy. GPS precision is also crucial for reliable pace and distance data, especially in areas with challenging signal conditions; dual-frequency or multi-GNSS support enhances this accuracy. To guarantee consistent tracking, proper device calibration, correct placement, and regular software updates are essential. Keep in mind that external factors like signal interference, environmental conditions, and individual physiology can influence data accuracy. Choosing a watch with advanced sensors and adaptive algorithms helps ensure your fitness metrics are as precise as possible throughout your runs.
Display Readability & Size
When selecting a GPS running watch with music, display readability and size are essential factors that can considerably affect your workout experience. A larger display with high resolution, like AMOLED screens, offers vibrant visuals and better visibility, especially outdoors. A screen size between 1.2 to 2.06 inches strikes a good balance, providing enough space for clear data without feeling cumbersome. Always-on screens are a great feature, allowing you to see metrics at a glance without waking the device. High contrast and anti-glare coatings further improve readability in bright sunlight, making outdoor runs more manageable. Ultimately, the right display size and type help you easily read data, navigate menus, and interact with your watch seamlessly, keeping you focused on your workout.
Connectivity & Compatibility
Have you checked if your GPS running watch supports Bluetooth and Wi-Fi? These features are essential for seamless pairing with wireless headphones, smartphones, and other devices. Ensuring compatibility with your phone’s operating system—whether Android or iOS—lets you receive notifications, synchronize apps, and control music remotely. It’s also important to verify support for popular streaming services like Spotify, Amazon Music, or Deezer, so you can download and play music directly from your watch. Look for devices with advanced wireless protocols, such as Bluetooth 5.4, which offer stable, low-latency audio and data transfer during workouts. Finally, confirm that your smartwatch is compatible with existing accessories like external sensors or heart rate monitors for integrated fitness tracking and extensive data sharing.
Frequently Asked Questions
How Do GPS Accuracy and Music Storage Impact Battery Life?
GPS accuracy and music storage do impact battery life because higher accuracy requires more power, and storing music uses additional energy. When I use my watch for precise tracking or with lots of music, I notice the battery drains faster. To extend my workout time, I often lower GPS accuracy settings or limit music storage. Balancing these features helps me enjoy my run without constantly worrying about recharging.
Are There Subscription Fees for Music Streaming Services on These Watches?
Think of it like Pandora’s box—some watches come with free music storage, but most require a subscription for streaming services like Spotify or Apple Music. I’ve found that subscription fees vary; many brands include a free trial, then charge monthly. So, if you’re enthusiastic to stream your favorite tunes, be prepared for ongoing costs. It’s an investment, but it definitely keeps your workouts motivated and music-rich.
Can These Watches Automatically Detect and Track Different Running Terrains?
Yes, many of these watches can automatically detect and track different running terrains. I’ve seen features that analyze changes in pace, elevation, and GPS signals to identify whether I’m on a road, trail, or treadmill. It’s pretty impressive how they adapt in real-time, giving me accurate stats without manual input. This helps me optimize my training, whether I’m hitting the pavement or exploring rugged trails.
How Durable Are These Watches in Extreme Weather Conditions?
Did you know that most top GPS running watches are tested to withstand water depths of up to 50 meters? I’ve found they’re remarkably durable in extreme weather, often rated for temperatures ranging from -20°C to 60°C. I’ve worn mine through snowstorms and intense heat without issues. They’re built tough, so you don’t have to worry about weather ruining your workout gear.
Do These Watches Support Third-Party Fitness Apps Besides Their Native Ones?
Yes, many of these watches support third-party fitness apps beyond their native options. I’ve found that models like Garmin and Fitbit allow you to connect popular apps for customized workouts, nutrition tracking, and mental health features. This flexibility helps me tailor my fitness journey and keeps me motivated. Just make sure to check compatibility before buying, as support varies across brands and models.
Conclusion
Choosing the right GPS running watch with music is like finding the perfect playlist for your run—it’s all about harmony and flow. Whether you prefer Garmin’s advanced features or a more budget-friendly option, the right device can turn every workout into a symphony of progress. So, gear up and pick the watch that resonates with your style—your perfect running partner is just a tap away, ready to elevate your performance to new heights.
