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10 Best Garmin Activity Trackers 2025 in the United States

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Our Top Picks

#1

Winner

Garmin vívoactive 5, Health and Fitness GPS Smartwatch, AMOLED Display, Up to 11 Days of Battery, Black

Rating
9.8
Chosen by1,181
Battery Life
Heart Rate Monitoring
GPS

Most important from
4793 reviews

Battery Life
The battery life on the Garmin vívoactive 5 is significantly longer compared to other smartwatches like Fitbit.
Heart Rate Monitoring
Tracking and health features like sleep tracking, nap option, heart rate monitoring, water and calorie tracking, and GPS are very well received.
GPS
Tracking and health features like sleep tracking, nap option, heart rate monitoring, water and calorie tracking, and GPS are very well received.
Water Resistance
Tracking and health features like sleep tracking, nap option, heart rate monitoring, water and calorie tracking, and GPS are very well received.
Sleep Tracking
The watch offers great data on sleep patterns, morning reports, weather updates, and various workout categories.
Smartphone Notifications
The watch offers great data on sleep patterns, morning reports, weather updates, and various workout categories.
Activity Tracking
Tracking and health features like sleep tracking, nap option, heart rate monitoring, water and calorie tracking, and GPS are very well received.

The Garmin vívoactive 5 is an impressive health and fitness GPS smartwatch that caters well to individuals looking to monitor their health and stay active. With a battery life of up to 11 days, it reduces the need for frequent charging, making it convenient for everyday use. The bright AMOLED display is easy to read, even in direct sunlight, enhancing the user experience.

One of its standout features is the comprehensive health monitoring, which includes heart rate monitoring, sleep tracking, stress levels, and even menstrual cycle tracking. This makes it a versatile option for a wide range of users, including those needing specific health insights. The built-in GPS and over 30 sports apps, such as running, cycling, and swimming, make it a solid choice for fitness enthusiasts. Its water resistance also means you can wear it while swimming or in the rain without worry.

Additionally, the ability to download music and use it with wireless headphones allows for a more enjoyable workout experience without needing a phone. However, there are a few drawbacks. The wrist-based heart rate monitoring, while convenient, may not be as accurate as chest strap monitors, especially during high-intensity workouts. The price might also be a consideration for some, as Garmin's products tend to be on the higher end. Also, the 1.2-inch screen size might be a bit small for users who prefer larger displays. While it supports multiple languages and can connect to both Android and iOS devices, some users might find the initial setup and navigation of features slightly complex. For those who want a reliable, feature-packed fitness and health tracker, the Garmin vívoactive 5 offers a solid combination of performance, battery life, and health insights.

Rating
9.8
Chosen by1,181
Battery Life
Heart Rate Monitoring
GPS

Most important from
4793 reviews

Battery Life
The battery life on the Garmin vívoactive 5 is significantly longer compared to other smartwatches like Fitbit.
Heart Rate Monitoring
Tracking and health features like sleep tracking, nap option, heart rate monitoring, water and calorie tracking, and GPS are very well received.
GPS
Tracking and health features like sleep tracking, nap option, heart rate monitoring, water and calorie tracking, and GPS are very well received.
Water Resistance
Tracking and health features like sleep tracking, nap option, heart rate monitoring, water and calorie tracking, and GPS are very well received.
Sleep Tracking
The watch offers great data on sleep patterns, morning reports, weather updates, and various workout categories.
Smartphone Notifications
The watch offers great data on sleep patterns, morning reports, weather updates, and various workout categories.
Activity Tracking
Tracking and health features like sleep tracking, nap option, heart rate monitoring, water and calorie tracking, and GPS are very well received.
#2

Garmin Forerunner® 255 Music, GPS Running Smartwatch with Music, Advanced Insights, Long-Lasting Battery, Black - 010-02641-20

Rating
9.6
Battery Life
Heart Rate Monitoring
GPS

Most important from
1279 reviews

Battery Life
Battery life is impressive, allowing users to see the watch at a glance without needing to raise their hand constantly.
Heart Rate Monitoring
Setup is straightforward, and the watch provides all the necessary data for running and cross-training, with spot-on GPS accuracy and heart rate monitoring.
GPS
Setup is straightforward, and the watch provides all the necessary data for running and cross-training, with spot-on GPS accuracy and heart rate monitoring.
Water Resistance
The watch fits well, especially the smaller 255S model, and performs well while swimming, offering lots of battery life and cool features.
Smartphone Notifications
Despite limited smartwatch capabilities, it reliably shows notifications and supports emergency contact initiation and Garmin Pay.
Activity Tracking
Activity tracking is significantly superior to Fitbit and Apple Watch, making it an excellent choice for fitness enthusiasts.

The Garmin Forerunner® 255 Music is a comprehensive activity tracker that excels in several key areas, making it a great choice for fitness enthusiasts and runners. It boasts impressive battery life, offering up to 14 days in smartwatch mode and up to 30 hours in GPS mode, which means less frequent charging. The built-in GPS is accurate and reliable, ideal for tracking runs, while the water resistance enables you to use it during swimming or in the rain without worry.

Heart rate monitoring and sleep tracking are advanced features that provide valuable insights into your health and fitness levels. The HRV status, which tracks heart rate variability during sleep, is particularly useful for understanding overall wellness and recovery. Additionally, the smartwatch supports smartphone notifications, so you can stay connected without needing to check your phone constantly. Music lovers will appreciate the ability to download up to 500 songs and connect wirelessly to headphones, allowing for an enjoyable, phone-free workout experience. However, the device's reliance on external subscriptions for some music services might be a drawback for some users. Some may also find the proprietary operating system less versatile compared to other platforms.

The Forerunner 255 Music is particularly geared towards runners, with features like personalized daily suggested workouts, training tips, and race completion time predictions. It also supports various sports profiles, making it versatile for different types of athletes. The slim design and clear, full-color display are practical and aesthetically pleasing, although the size options may not fit everyone perfectly. This smartwatch is well-suited for active users looking for a robust and feature-rich tracker, particularly those who are serious about running and fitness training.

Rating
9.6
Battery Life
Heart Rate Monitoring
GPS

Most important from
1279 reviews

Battery Life
Battery life is impressive, allowing users to see the watch at a glance without needing to raise their hand constantly.
Heart Rate Monitoring
Setup is straightforward, and the watch provides all the necessary data for running and cross-training, with spot-on GPS accuracy and heart rate monitoring.
GPS
Setup is straightforward, and the watch provides all the necessary data for running and cross-training, with spot-on GPS accuracy and heart rate monitoring.
Water Resistance
The watch fits well, especially the smaller 255S model, and performs well while swimming, offering lots of battery life and cool features.
Smartphone Notifications
Despite limited smartwatch capabilities, it reliably shows notifications and supports emergency contact initiation and Garmin Pay.
Activity Tracking
Activity tracking is significantly superior to Fitbit and Apple Watch, making it an excellent choice for fitness enthusiasts.
#3

Garmin Enduro™ 3 – 51 mm, Solar, Sapphire, Ultraperformance GPS Smartwatch, Extreme Battery Life, Detailed Mapping, Built-in LED Flashlight, Carbon Gray DLC Titanium with Black UltraFit Nylon Strap

Rating
9.4
Battery Life
Sleep Tracking

Most important from
83 reviews

Battery Life
The battery life is leaps and bounds better than the Fenix 7, with almost a 20-day difference!
Sleep Tracking
The sleep tracking on the Enduro 3 seems more refined and accurate.

The Garmin Enduro 3 is a high-performance GPS smartwatch designed for ultra-endurance athletes. One of its standout features is the impressive battery life, lasting up to 90 days in smartwatch mode with solar charging and up to 320 hours in GPS mode, making it ideal for long adventures. The titanium bezel and scratch-resistant sapphire lens ensure durability, while the built-in LED flashlight is a handy addition for night-time activities. The UltraFit nylon strap provides comfort during prolonged use in challenging conditions.

The watch also includes preloaded TopoActive maps, dynamic round-trip routing, and sport-specific workouts, which are great for outdoor enthusiasts such as runners, cyclists, and hikers. Key specs like the 1.4-inch always-on display, 32 GB storage, and multiple connectivity options (Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, USB) enhance its usability. However, it is relatively heavy at 63 grams, which might be a consideration for some users.

The Garmin Enduro 3 offers comprehensive activity tracking, including heart rate monitoring, sleep tracking, and smartphone notifications, which cater well to fitness and health-conscious users. The price point may be higher due to its premium features, but those looking for a durable, feature-rich activity tracker with exceptional battery life will find it worth the investment.

Rating
9.4
Battery Life
Sleep Tracking

Most important from
83 reviews

Battery Life
The battery life is leaps and bounds better than the Fenix 7, with almost a 20-day difference!
Sleep Tracking
The sleep tracking on the Enduro 3 seems more refined and accurate.

Buying Guide for the Best Garmin Activity Trackers

Choosing the right Garmin activity tracker can be a rewarding experience, as it can help you monitor your fitness progress, stay motivated, and achieve your health goals. To make the best choice, it's important to understand the key specifications and features that differentiate various models. By considering your personal fitness needs and lifestyle, you can find the perfect tracker that fits seamlessly into your daily routine.
Heart Rate MonitoringHeart rate monitoring is a feature that tracks your heart rate in real-time. This is important because it helps you understand your cardiovascular health, optimize your workouts, and monitor your stress levels. Basic models may offer continuous heart rate monitoring, while advanced models provide additional insights like heart rate variability and recovery time. If you're an athlete or someone who engages in high-intensity workouts, a tracker with advanced heart rate monitoring features would be beneficial. For casual users, basic heart rate monitoring should suffice.
GPS TrackingGPS tracking allows the activity tracker to record your outdoor activities like running, cycling, and hiking with precise location data. This is important for accurately measuring distance, speed, and route. Some models come with built-in GPS, while others rely on your smartphone's GPS. If you frequently engage in outdoor activities and prefer not to carry your phone, a tracker with built-in GPS is ideal. For those who mostly exercise indoors or don't mind carrying their phone, a tracker without built-in GPS will work just fine.
Battery LifeBattery life refers to how long the activity tracker can operate on a single charge. This is important because it determines how often you'll need to recharge the device. Battery life can range from a few days to several weeks, depending on the model and usage. If you prefer a low-maintenance device, look for a tracker with a longer battery life. However, keep in mind that features like GPS and continuous heart rate monitoring can drain the battery faster. Choose a battery life that aligns with your usage patterns and charging habits.
Water ResistanceWater resistance indicates how well the activity tracker can withstand exposure to water. This is important if you plan to use the tracker while swimming, showering, or in rainy conditions. Water resistance is usually measured in meters, with higher values indicating better protection. For swimmers or those who engage in water sports, a tracker with higher water resistance (e.g., 50 meters or more) is essential. For general use, a tracker with basic water resistance (e.g., splash-proof) should be adequate.
Sleep TrackingSleep tracking monitors your sleep patterns, including duration and quality of sleep. This is important for understanding your sleep habits and making improvements to your overall health. Basic models may track total sleep time, while advanced models provide detailed insights like sleep stages (light, deep, REM) and sleep scores. If improving your sleep is a priority, look for a tracker with comprehensive sleep tracking features. For those who are less concerned about sleep data, a basic sleep tracker will be sufficient.
Smartphone NotificationsSmartphone notifications allow the activity tracker to display alerts for calls, messages, and app notifications. This is important for staying connected without constantly checking your phone. Some models offer basic notifications, while others provide more interactive features like quick replies and app integration. If you want to stay connected and manage notifications on the go, choose a tracker with robust notification features. For users who prefer minimal distractions, a tracker with basic notification capabilities will do.
Activity and Workout ModesActivity and workout modes refer to the pre-set exercise profiles available on the tracker. This is important for accurately tracking different types of activities, such as running, cycling, yoga, and strength training. Basic models may offer a few common modes, while advanced models provide a wide range of specialized workouts. If you engage in diverse physical activities, look for a tracker with multiple workout modes. For those who stick to a few types of exercises, a tracker with basic activity modes will be sufficient.

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