Do You Need a GPS Running Watch? A Beginner's Honest Answer
GPS watches promise better training, but your phone already tracks runs. Here's when a running watch is worth it and which features beginners can ignore.
Where to buy on sale
When I started running, I thought I needed a fancy watch. I didn't. My phone tracked my runs just fine for the first year. But eventually a GPS watch made a real difference. Here's how to know when you're ready.
Your phone is enough at first
Free running apps track distance, pace and routes. If you run a few times a week and carry your phone, you don't need a watch yet.
When a watch makes sense
- You hate carrying your phone.
- You want accurate pace on your wrist without pulling out your phone.
- You're training for a race and want structured workouts.
- You want heart rate data to train at easy paces.
Features that matter
- **Accurate GPS:** good watches lock on quickly and track accurately.
- **Battery life:** enough for your longest run plus a few days.
- **Easy-to-read screen in sunlight.**
- **Simple buttons.** Touchscreens can be annoying with sweaty fingers.
Features beginners can ignore
- Advanced running dynamics
- Built-in maps, unless you trail run
- Music storage, unless you hate carrying your phone
- Dozens of sport modes you'll never use
Wrist heart rate
Wrist heart rate is good for easy runs but can be less accurate during intervals. A chest strap is more accurate if you train seriously.
Budget options
Entry-level running watches cover the basics well. Last year's models often drop in price when new ones launch.
Smartwatches vs running watches
Smartwatches do many things, including running. Dedicated running watches usually have better battery life and buttons for running.
Where to buy
Amazon has a wide range of GPS watches with frequent discounts, especially on last year's models. Dick's Sporting Goods carries running watches you can see in person, which helps because screen size and strap comfort matter more than spec sheets suggest.
Verdict
Start with your phone. Buy a watch when you're running regularly and want accurate pace on your wrist. An entry-level or last year's model is plenty for most runners.
Where to buy on sale
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