10 Best Gps Running Watch With Music 2025 in the United States

The Apple Watch SE (2nd Gen) is a versatile GPS running watch that offers a range of features tailored for fitness enthusiasts. One of its strongest points is the built-in GPS, which provides accurate tracking of your runs without needing your phone. The device also supports music storage and playback, allowing you to listen to your favorite tunes as you exercise, enhancing your workout experience.

Battery life is generally solid, allowing for a fair amount of workout time, but heavy users may find they need to recharge more often when using music and GPS features simultaneously. Heart rate monitoring is reliable, giving you real-time feedback on your performance, which is essential for serious runners.

In terms of durability, the Apple Watch SE is swimproof with a water resistance of up to 50 meters, making it suitable for various outdoor activities. The user interface is intuitive, which is great for individuals who may not be tech-savvy; navigating through workouts and settings is relatively straightforward.

The watch is primarily designed for use with Apple products, which may limit its appeal for Android users or those seeking broader compatibility. While it offers decent music storage, it may not be as extensive as dedicated music players, so if having large playlists is crucial, this could be a drawback. Additionally, while the watch has great health features, some advanced metrics might not be as comprehensive compared to dedicated fitness devices.

The Apple Watch SE (2nd Gen) is an excellent option for Apple users looking for a stylish, multifunctional watch that excels at fitness tracking and connectivity. However, those not deeply integrated into the Apple ecosystem or looking for extensive music storage might want to explore other options.

The Samsung Galaxy Watch 7 40mm Bluetooth AI Smartwatch offers several features suitable for runners and fitness enthusiasts. Its GPS accuracy enables precise tracking for runs and bike rides, allowing you to compare your performance over time. The music storage and playback capabilities mean you can enjoy your favorite tunes without carrying an extra device. The watch also has a solid battery life, ensuring it lasts through your workouts and daily activities without frequent charging intervals. Heart rate monitoring is efficiently handled with advanced tracking that filters out extraneous movements for a more accurate read. In addition, it provides comprehensive sleep tracking, including insights into sleep apnea, which is beneficial for maintaining wellness.

The watch boasts water resistance, making it suitable for various weather conditions and activities such as swimming. Connectivity via Bluetooth is robust, offering seamless integration with your phone for analyzing fitness data and receiving wellness tips. The durability and build quality are impressive, with a lightweight design that does not compromise on sturdiness. The user interface is intuitive, ensuring ease of use even for those not very tech-savvy. However, some users might find the 40mm size a bit small if they prefer larger displays for easier readability.

Those seeking a comprehensive fitness companion with music playback capabilities will likely find the Samsung Galaxy Watch 7 a suitable choice.

The Garmin Forerunner 265 is a strong choice if you're looking for a running watch that combines accurate GPS tracking with useful music features. It uses multi-band GPS technology, which helps keep your location precise even in tricky environments, making it reliable for runners who want trustworthy distance and pace data. With 8 GB of storage, you can easily load your favorite music and listen directly from the watch, freeing you from carrying a phone while running.

Battery life is impressive, offering up to 13 days in smartwatch mode and about 20 hours when using GPS continuously. This means you can go on long runs or multi-day activities without worrying about frequent charging. The watch includes advanced heart rate monitoring and offers detailed training insights like recovery status, sleep quality, and daily workout suggestions, which can help you train smarter.

Its 1.3-inch colorful AMOLED touchscreen makes the display bright and easy to navigate, while physical buttons provide reliable control even during sweaty or wet conditions. The watch is water resistant, suitable for swimming and running in the rain. It also supports smart notifications and contactless payments, adding convenience for everyday use beyond workouts. However, some safety features and notifications require pairing with a smartphone nearby for full functionality. While durable and lightweight, the 46 mm size might feel a bit large for smaller wrists, and the interface that balances touchscreen and buttons might take some getting used to.