8 best GPS watches for running and hiking (2024)

GPS watches are fast becoming an adventurer’s best tool. Runners, hikers, climbers, divers, – basically any outdoorsy individual – can’t leave home without a GPS watch strapped around their wrist.

Over the years, GPS watches have evolved to be more than just a nice-to-have device. Today, many boast crucial features such as precise location tracking, fall detection, accurate health measurements, and more.

It is not an exaggeration to say that a GPS watch may mean the difference between life and death. Especially for those who spend much of their time off the beaten path.

If you’re an outdoorsman/woman yourself, then it’s high time you get one. Here are 8 of the best GPS watches you can get in 2024.

1. Apple Watch Ultra 2

Price in Malaysia starts at RM3,799

Best used for: High-altitude Climbing, Scuba Diving, Mountaineering/Hiking

Expensive, yes. But well worth your money considering the Apple Watch Ultra will survive everything you throw at it.

Its titanium casing is extremely tough with a case made of titanium. Also, it is able to withstand extreme temperatures ranging from glacial -20°C to searing heats up to 55°C.

More than just a hardy device, the Apple Watch Ultra 2 is incredibly accurate. It utilizes dual-frequency GPS, providing greater range and accurate location tracking even in highly covered and dense environments.

And, in times of desperation, you can use the Siren function to lay out an 86dB sound pattern which can be heard as far as 180m.

Apple Watch Ultra 2 Key Specs

• 36 hours battery life (normal use)
• Depth Gauge (underwater depth measurement)
• Compass Waypoints
• Night Mode
• Backtrack (to retrace route)

2. Suunto 9 Peak Pro

Price in Malaysia starts at RM3,199 (Titanium), and RM2,699 (Stainless Steel); Get it for RM2,099 on PriceShop!

Best used for: Mountaineering, Snorkeling, Scuba Diving, Long-haul Hiking

The Suunto 9 Peak Pro is far tougher than it looks. Despite measuring at only a sleek 10.8mm, this GPS watch has certified military grade durability.

In comparison, the Apple Watch Ultra is super tough, but is pretty hefty with a 14.4mm thickness.

More than just being physically robust, the Suunto 9 Peak Pro is outrageously long lasting. Even with GPS mode on, it will last you up to 40 hours. Its extensive battery life is particularly useful for long-distance hikes, where being on top of your bearings is crucial.

Suunto 9 Peak Pro Key Specs

• 21 days battery life (normal use)
• Fast charging (0%-100% in 1 hours)
• Waterproof up to 100m
• Titanium models available for extra ruggedness

3. Suunto 9 Baro

Price in Malaysia starts at RM2,239, Get it for RM2,015 on PriceShop!

Best used for: Cycling, Long-distance Running, Trail Running

The Suunto 9 Baro is an option that’s more suited for athletic and sports use, rather than high-stakes adventuring.

It was built with athletes in mind, with the intention of providing a GPS watch that will endure a lengthy and arduous session. Optimized battery modes ensures the Suunto 9 Baro keeps running without compromise on GPS accuracy.

Though it is probably not the most rugged of GPS watch, it can still withstand tough conditions such as extreme temperatures and shock drops.

Suunto 9 Peak Pro Key Specs

• Titanium versions available
• 4 Battery Modes – Performance, Endurance, Ultra, Tour
• 25 hours to 170 hours battery with GPS on
• Suunto App for 3D routes and road surface information

4. Samsung Galaxy Watch5 Pro

Price in Malaysia starts at RM1,899; Get it for RM1,599 on PriceShop!

Best used for: Cycling, Running, Hiking

The Samsung Galaxy series offers great multipurpose watches suited for everyone, not just athletes or outdoorsman/woman.

However, if you are on the more active side of life, then consider the Galaxy Watch5 Pro. Not only does it have a built-in GPS, it also allows you to import route maps from your phone to your watch. That way, you can have your running or cycling maps on your wrist, rather than having to haul along your phone.

Furthermore, the Samsung Galaxy Watch5 Pro has a Track Back feature which will help you retrace your route back to your starting point.

Samsung Galaxy Watch5 Pro Key Specs

• 590mAh battery, 80 hours (typical usage)
• Sapphire crystal glass and Titanium case
• Health tracking and Sleep tracking

5. Garmin Forerunner 965

Price in Malaysia starts at RM2,970

Best used for: Running, Triathlons

The Garmin Forerunner 965 is an excellent choice for triathletes seeking to push the boundaries. It comes ready with built-in maps and a multi-band GPS to keep you on track. Thriving in triathlons, this smartwatch comes with Triathlon Activity Profile to give you crucial stats in your race, with easy switching between sports with just one press.

In a way, the Garmin Forerunner 965 is like a running coach on your wrist.

You’ll have access to a host of crucial readings, including Stamina tracking, Training status, Training readiness.

Perhaps more importantly, the Garmin Forerunner 965 has up to 31 hours of battery life in GPS mode, trumping many other GPS smart watch in the market.

Garmin Forerunner 965 Key Specs

• Triathlon Activity Profile
• 31 hours of battery life
• 5 ATM water rating
• 1.4″ AMOLED display with titanium bezel

6. Garmin Forerunner 55

Price in Malaysia starts at RM1,050; Get it for RM945 on PriceShop!

Best used for: Road Running, Track Running

Another GPS watch in Garmin’s Forerunner series that’s worth considering is the Forerunner 55. This option is less expensive than the Forerunner 245, but it also slightly toned down.

Nevertheless, the Forerunner 55 fits the bill for newbie runners. It offers crucial running measurements such as VO2 max levels, cadence readings, heart rate monitoring, and more.

It will not provide a breakdown as detailed as the Forerunner 245. But if you’re just getting into the running groove, then the Forerunner 55 is more than enough.

Garmin Forerunner 55 Key Specs

• Built-in GPS
• GPS-only mode give up to 20 hours usage
• Heart Rate and Sleep Quality monitoring
• Built-in incident detection

7. Fitbit Versa 4

Price in Malaysia starts at RM1,048; Get it for RM948 on PriceShop!

Best used for: Strength training, HIIT workouts, running

Breaking away from running-specific watches, the Fitbit Versa 4 is one option that’s perfect for all-round sports usage.

It has a Daily Readiness Score which collects data from your body and determines how ‘ready’ your body is for a workout. Based on that reading, you can then decide if it’s better to push or recover.

This is ideal for activities such as strength training or high-intensity interval training (HIIT) where sessions tend to be explosive. In these sessions, it’s better to ensure you are in tip-top condition rather than risking potential cardiac-related issues.

Fitbit Versa 4 Key Specs

• Built-in GPS
• 40+ exercise modes
• Water resistant to 50m
• 6+ days battery life

8. Amazfit T-Rex 2

Price in Malaysia starts at RM839; Get it for as low as RM779 on PriceShop!

Best used for: Triathlons, Swimming, Trail Running, Cycling

It is slightly odd that Amazfit would name their watch after a dinosaur. But to their credit, the T-Rex 2 is a pretty robust device.

It has gone through 15 military-grade tests, and is able to function under freezing -30°C temperatures, and under 70°C heat. So whether you’re skiing on the Swiss alps or traversing across searing deserts, the T-Rex 2 has your back.

In addition to its sturdiness, the Amazfit T-Rex 2 is pinpoint accurate thanks to dual-band positioning and support for 6 satellite systems. And, in the event where you need to turn back, you can count on Direct Return Navigation to give you the fastest route back to your starting point.

Amazfit T-Rex 2 Key Specs

• 24 days typical usage, 26 hours with accuracy GPS mode
• 1000nit display brightness
• 10ATM water-resistance
• Route Import and Real-time Navigation

More than just a timepiece

With a wide range of functionalities, health measurements, and elegant designs, it’s not surprising that smart watches are becoming an increasingly popular device in today’s world.

If you’re so happen looking for a smart watch with a built-in GPS, we hope this article helped in your decision!

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