
Choosing the best smartwatch for fitness tracking depends on your specific needs, budget, and the phone you use. The market in 2025 offers a wide range of options, from dedicated fitness devices to all-purpose smartwatches with robust health features.
Here are some of the best smartwatches for fitness tracking, categorized by their strengths:
1. Best for iPhone Users (and Overall)
The Apple Watch continues to be a top choice due to its seamless integration with the iOS ecosystem and comprehensive health tracking capabilities.
- Apple Watch Series 10: This is an excellent all-rounder, offering a wide array of health, fitness, and safety features. It provides accurate fitness tracking, including GPS, heart rate monitoring, and sleep tracking with new features like sleep apnea notifications. Its robust app ecosystem and sleek design make it the best choice for most iPhone users.
- Apple Watch Ultra 2: For serious athletes and outdoor adventurers, the Ultra 2 is the most capable option. It features a rugged design, a brilliant and durable display, and advanced training functions. It is ideal for those who need a device that can withstand extreme conditions while providing accurate, in-depth data.
2. Best for Android Users
These smartwatches offer a top-tier fitness and health experience for those on the Android platform.
- Samsung Galaxy Watch 7/Ultra: The Galaxy Watch series provides a well-rounded experience with a focus on AI-backed health insights. The Galaxy Watch 7 is a great all-purpose choice, while the new Ultra model is geared towards outdoor enthusiasts, offering advanced health and wellness tracking. Both watches feature a bright, punchy display and a wide range of third-party apps via Wear OS.
- Google Pixel Watch 3: With an elegant, round-screen design and deep integration with Google and Fitbit’s ecosystem, the Pixel Watch 3 is a great choice for Android users. It offers a comfortable fit and a range of new tools for runners and athletes, including AI-generated running workouts and a daily readiness score.
3. Best for Runners and Serious Athletes
Garmin is the undisputed leader in this category, known for its highly accurate GPS, detailed training metrics, and exceptional battery life.
- Garmin Forerunner 970: This is the top choice for athletes and runners. It offers a full suite of training and recovery features, medically-certified ECG capability, and accurate multi-band GPS. It delivers in-depth insights and analytics to help you train more effectively.
- Garmin Forerunner 165: A fantastic option for runners of all levels, the Forerunner 165 provides a bright AMOLED screen, accurate GPS, and advanced training and recovery tools at a more accessible price point.
4. Best for Budget-Conscious Users
You don’t have to spend a fortune to get reliable fitness tracking.
- Fitbit Charge 6: While technically a fitness tracker band, the Charge 6 offers robust activity tracking, accurate sleep and heart rate monitoring, and built-in GPS. It’s an excellent choice for a no-frills wearable with a long battery life and cross-platform support.
- Amazfit Active 2: This watch provides impressive performance and features for a very low price. It works with both Android and iOS, offers GPS tracking, and a long battery life, making it a great value option.
Other Notable Mentions:
- Whoop 5.0: This screenless band is laser-focused on recovery, sleep, and readiness. It’s a subscription-based service for serious athletes who prioritize data and actionable insights over a traditional smartwatch display.
- Oura Ring 4: A discreet and comfortable option for those who want to track their sleep and health without a wrist-based device. It offers in-depth insights into health and recovery metrics.