Best GPS Smartwatches for Every Budget
Choosing the right multisport GPS smartwatch can be tricky, especially when balancing features against price. Whether you’re watching your spending or looking for premium options, there’s something for everyone.
In this guide, we’ll explore some of the best multisport GPS smartwatches available at different price points. We’ll help you find the one that meets your needs without breaking the bank.
I recently upgraded from a Garmin Vivoactive 3 to the Garmin fēnix 7X Pro Sapphire Solar. Although it’s more advanced than what I need, I’m impressed by its accurate GPS, heart rate monitoring, and long battery life. The larger 51mm case size took some getting used to, but the extra screen space is great for viewing data.
Another standout feature is the built-in flashlight, which has proved useful during night training. However, I did replace the original watch band for better comfort. Overall, the fēnix 7X Pro’s advanced features and durability make it a solid investment.
Design and Build Quality
The Garmin fēnix 7X Pro Sapphire Solar smartwatch features a large 1.4-inch display housed in a sturdy 51 mm fiber-reinforced polymer case with a titanium bezel and rear cover. This construction ensures durability and resilience during intense activities. The watch’s scratch-resistant Power Sapphire solar charging lens extends battery life, making it a reliable companion for long adventures. Additionally, the built-in LED flashlight with various intensities and strobe modes is a handy tool for nighttime training and general illumination.
Battery Life and Solar Charging
One of the standout features of the Garmin fēnix 7X Pro is its impressive battery life. Thanks to the Power Sapphire solar charging lens, the watch uses the sun’s energy to extend its battery life by weeks in smartwatch mode. This feature is particularly beneficial for outdoor enthusiasts who spend extended periods away from power sources. The solar charging capability ensures that the watch remains operational even during long adventures.
Health and Wellness Monitoring
The Garmin fēnix 7X Pro offers comprehensive health and wellness monitoring features. It tracks heart rate variability (HRV), Pulse Ox, and provides advanced sleep monitoring. These features help users gain a better understanding of their overall health, training, and recovery. The watch also offers a morning report and training readiness features, which combine health and training data for easier interpretation and analysis.
Training and Performance Metrics
For athletes and fitness enthusiasts, the Garmin fēnix 7X Pro provides valuable training and performance metrics. The new hill score feature measures running strength and endurance during ascents, while the endurance score combines data from various athletic pursuits to gauge overall endurance. The watch also includes wrist-based running power, strength training features, and advanced pacing modes to help users optimize their training and performance.
Navigation and Maps
The Garmin fēnix 7X Pro excels in navigation and mapping capabilities. It features advanced navigation sensors and multi-band GPS with SatIQ technology for accurate positioning and optimized battery life. The watch comes preloaded with maps for thousands of golf courses and ski resorts worldwide, as well as TopoActive maps for outdoor explorations. The Up Ahead navigation prompts ensure that users never miss a turn during their adventures.
Sports and Activity Profiles
The Garmin fēnix 7X Pro is designed to cater to a wide range of sports and activities. It includes activity profiles for popular sports like soccer, football, baseball, volleyball, ice hockey, and racquet sports. This versatility makes it an ideal choice for multi-sport athletes who want to track their performance across different activities. The watch’s ability to distinguish between outdoor and indoor activities further enhances its tracking accuracy.
Comfort and Usability
The Garmin fēnix 7X Pro is designed with comfort and usability in mind. Despite its larger size, users find it comfortable to wear for extended periods. The watch’s interface is user-friendly, and the quick buttons provide easy access to frequently used features like the flashlight. However, some users may find the default watch band uncomfortable and may prefer to replace it with an aftermarket option for a better fit.
Connectivity and Smart Features
The Garmin fēnix 7X Pro offers seamless connectivity with smartphones, enabling users to receive notifications, messages, and calls directly on their watch. The Garmin Pay feature allows for contactless payments, adding convenience during workouts or daily activities. Additionally, the watch’s compatibility with popular fitness apps like Strava ensures that users can easily sync and share their workout data.
Durability and Water Resistance
Built to withstand tough conditions, the Garmin fēnix 7X Pro is designed for durability. Its robust construction ensures it can handle various outdoor environments, while its water resistance makes it suitable for swimming and other water activities. Users have reported the watch’s resilience in harsh conditions, including high salinity environments like the Dead Sea.
User Reviews and Feedback
The Garmin fēnix 7X Pro has received positive reviews from users who appreciate its comprehensive features and reliable performance. Users have highlighted its accurate GPS tracking, long battery life, and versatile activity profiles. While some users have noted minor issues like the default watch band’s comfort, overall feedback indicates high satisfaction with the watch’s functionality and durability.
Pros:
- Long battery life with solar charging capability
- Accurate GPS and health tracking features
- Built-in flashlight for nighttime use
Cons:
- High price point
- Large case size may not suit everyone
- Band can cause discomfort for some users
Conclusion
Selecting the right multisport GPS smartwatch depends on your budget and specific needs. Budget-friendly options like the Garmin Vivoactive 3 offer essential features, while premium models like the Garmin fēnix 7X Pro provide advanced functionalities.
By understanding what each price range offers, you can make an informed decision that best supports your activities and lifestyle. Whether you’re a casual user or a dedicated athlete, there’s a perfect smartwatch for you.
Questions & Answers:
Question: Does the Garmin fēnix 7X Pro support GPS tracking?
Answer: Yes, the Garmin fēnix 7X Pro has advanced GPS tracking with SatIQ technology for accurate positioning.
Question: How long does the battery last on the Garmin fēnix 7X Pro?
Answer: The battery can last several weeks in smartwatch mode, thanks to its solar charging capability.
Question: Is the Garmin fēnix 7X Pro suitable for swimming?
Answer: Yes, the Garmin fēnix 7X Pro is water-resistant and can track swimming activities accurately.