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This article explores the top GPS smartwatches with Google Maps navigation, providing an essential guide for individuals seeking the freedom to explore without the hassle of carrying a phone.
From understanding the essentials of GPS watches to highlighting popular models, this comprehensive overview will help you make an informed decision regarding your next wearable navigational device.
Key Takeaways
- Garmin Venu 2S offers Google Maps navigation capabilities, advanced health monitoring features, a bright AMOLED display, and long battery life.
- GPS smartwatches with Google Maps integration provide accurate tracking, improved navigation capabilities, and convenient contactless payments.
- Using Google Maps on a smartwatch involves connecting to a stable internet connection, granting necessary permissions, searching for locations using voice commands or manual input, and navigating with turn-by-turn directions.
- The role of Google Assistant in facilitating navigation includes voice commands for directions, real-time traffic updates, and integration with other navigation apps.
Table of Contents
GPS Smartwatches with Google Maps Navigation
The Garmin Forerunner 955, Polar Grit X, SUUNTO 9 Peak and Peak Pro, Garmin Enduro 2, and Apple Watch SE (2nd Gen) are all notable options in this category.
These models combine the convenience of GPS tracking with the functionality of Google Maps, providing users with accurate navigation and location information right on their wrists.
Garmin Forerunner 955
The Garmin Forerunner 955 offers a range of features for athletes and outdoor enthusiasts. With its always-on, full-color display and waterproof design, this smartwatch is built to withstand the harshest conditions.
Its long battery life of up to 15 days in smartwatch mode and up to 42 hours in GPS mode ensures you can stay connected and track your activities for extended periods.
The Forerunner 955 also features traditional button controls and a responsive touchscreen. With built-in mapping and access to multiple global navigation satellite systems, you can expect improved accuracy in your location tracking.
Additionally, the watch provides a training readiness score based on sleep quality, recovery, and training and a race widget with training tips and completion time predictions.
Pros:
- Long battery life
- Accurate location tracking
- Training readiness score and race widget
- Durable and waterproof design
- Responsive touchscreen and traditional button controls
Cons:
- A little expensive
- Limitations with notifications and music playback
- Learning curve and training suggestions
Sale
Garmin 010-02638-10 Forerunner® 955, GPS Running Smartwatch, Tailored to Triathletes, Long-Lasting…
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- Click or swipe through maps and stats with traditional button controls or a new, responsive…
Polar Grit X
The Polar Grit X offers a range of features for outdoor enthusiasts and athletes. This rugged and durable travel watch is designed to withstand harsh conditions, making it a reliable adventure companion.
With its ultra-long battery life of up to 40 hours with GPS and heart rate tracking, users can explore freely without worrying about running out of power. The lightweight design of the Polar Grit X adds to its appeal, as it is 20-30% lighter than other outdoor watches in the market.
In addition to its navigation features, the Polar Grit X also offers wrist-based heart rate monitoring, automatic detection of uphill and downhill stats, and overnight recovery measurement.
The watch is compatible with Polar Flow, a platform for planning and analyzing training sessions, and it supports multiple sports profiles, making it suitable for a wide range of activities.
Pros:
- Accurate optical HR sensor
- Hill Splitter feature for hill repeats
- Clear screen display with touch features
- Route guidance for finding prescribed routes
- Long battery life
- Additional features such as swim metrics, sleep stages, and nightly recharge
Cons:
- High price compared to other devices
- Lack of included screen protector and built-in maps
POLAR Grit X – Rugged Multisport GPS Smart Watch – Ultra-Long Battery Life, Wrist-based Heart Rate,…
- LIGHTEST OUTDOOR WATCH WITH ULTRA LONG BATTERY LIFE: Up to 40h battery life with full GPS and HR…
- MILITARY LEVEL DURABILITY: Grit X has passed several MIL-STD-810G tests and is water resistance up…
- NAVIGATION: The real-time turn-by-turn route guidance and route import from Komoot keep you on the…
SUUNTO 9 Peak and Peak Pro
The SUUNTO 9 Peak and Peak Pro are exceptional timepieces, offering a wide range of features for athletes and adventurers alike. These watches are designed for demanding and performance-driven individuals who seek freedom in their activities.
The SUUNTO 9 Peak and Peak Pro are built to withstand extreme conditions. The battery charges to full in just one hour, providing up to 25 hours of battery life in the best GPS mode. These watches also offer 80 sports modes, music controls, and connectivity to favorite sports apps and services.
With their Scandinavian design and ultra-durable materials, the SUUNTO 9 Peak and Peak Pro are perfect for tracking sports, daily activity, and sleep.
Pros:
- Exceptional battery life
- Wide range of sports modes
- Music controls on the watch
- Connects to favorite sports apps and services
- Ultra-durable materials
Cons:
- Small font size
- Glitches in step counting
- Inaccurate sleep and O2 saturation detection
Sale
SUUNTO 9 Peak and Peak Pro Sports GPS Watch for Demanding, Performance Driven Athletes and…
- Suunto 9 Peak: Designed for the peak experiences that sport makes you feel, this multisport GPS…
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- Get Connected: Connect to your favorite sports apps and services from the Suunto app to get more…
Garmin Enduro 2
The Garmin Enduro 2 is an ultra-performance GPS smartwatch offering advanced features for athletes and outdoor enthusiasts.
This rugged and lightweight watch has a 1.4′ Power Sapphire lens that harvests solar energy, ensuring long-lasting battery life even in remote locations. With the AutoSelect mode powered by SatIQ technology, the watch optimizes battery usage by intelligently switching between GPS and other sensors.
It comes preloaded with TopoActive and ski maps for easy navigation and also features a Superbright LED flashlight and red safety light mode for added convenience and safety.
The watch provides advanced performance metrics, heart rate monitoring, and sports apps for a comprehensive tracking experience. With its maps and GPS tracking capabilities, users can explore the outdoors without needing a phone.
Pros:
- Long-lasting battery life
- Rugged and lightweight design
- Preloaded maps
- Advanced performance metrics
- Convenient flashlight and safety light mode
Cons:
- Slight learning curve for new users
- Size and indoor visibility considerations
Sale
Garmin Enduro™ 2 – Ultraperformance Watch, Long-Lasting GPS Battery Life, Solar Charging,…
- The 1.4” Power Sapphire lens harvests the sun’s energy, giving you more power and time between…
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- The rugged, lightweight design won’t slow you down, and the light UltraFit nylon band provides a…
Apple Watch SE (2nd Gen)
The Apple Watch SE (2nd Gen) offers a range of fitness tracking and connectivity features. With its sleek design and cellular connectivity, this watch provides the freedom to stay connected and stream music without needing an iPhone nearby. It also includes health and safety features such as Crash Detection, Fall Detection, and Emergency SOS, ensuring peace of mind during outdoor activities.
The Apple Watch SE (2nd Gen) is water resistant up to 50 meters, making it suitable for swimming and water-based workouts.
It grants access to tens of thousands of apps on the App Store, allowing users to customize their experience to suit their individual needs.
Pros:
- Sleek design
- Cellular connectivity for independence from iPhone
- Wide range of health and safety features
- Water resistance for swimming and water workouts
- Extensive app selection for customization
Cons:
- Limited battery life
- Difficulty with typing on the tiny keyboard
Sale
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Apple Watch SE (2nd Gen) [GPS +Cellular 44mm] Smart watch w/Midnight Aluminum Case & Midnight Sport…
- WHY APPLE WATCH SE — All the essentials to help you monitor your fitness, keep connected, track…
- CELLULAR CONNECTIVITY — Send a text, make a call, and stream music without your iPhone, even while…
- HEALTH AND SAFETY FEATURES — Get help when you need it with Crash Detection, Fall Detection, and…
Ticwatch Pro 3 Ultra
The Ticwatch Pro 3 Ultra offers a range of features and specifications that cater to the needs of individuals who desire advanced navigational abilities. With its long battery life and dual-layer display 2.0 technology, users can enjoy extended usage without worrying about frequent recharging.
The Ticwatch Pro 3 Ultra also boasts an updated chipset with Qualcomm Snapdragon Wear 4100 platform, ensuring smooth performance and efficient operation. Additionally, its advanced health and fitness monitoring capabilities, including the new Fatigue Assessment feature, allow users to track their well-being and make informed decisions.
The watch’s premium design, US Military Standard 810G certified durability, and customizable features further enhance the overall user experience.
Pros:
- Long battery life with dual layers display 2.0 technology
- Updated chipset for smooth performance
- Advanced health and fitness monitoring with Fatigue Assessment feature
- Premium design with knurled stainless-steel bezel
- Customizable watch faces
Cons:
- Lack of audible alarms for heart rate and AFIB
- Absence of a wireless charging option
- Limited watch strap options
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Huawei Watch 2
The Huawei Watch 2 Sport is a top choice for users seeking accurate location tracking and directions on their wrist. With its built-in GPS, users can confidently navigate unfamiliar routes and explore new places without the need for a smartphone.
This smartwatch provides the freedom to move and explore, ensuring that users can go wherever they please while still having access to reliable navigation.
Pros:
- Accurate GPS navigation with Google Maps
- Stylish design with a ceramic bezel
- Continuous heart rate monitoring for fitness tracking
- NFC capability for easy payments
- Google Assistant integration for voice commands
Cons:
- Some users may find the watch’s size and design unsuitable for women
- There are mixed reviews on the overall design and features compared to the first-generation Huawei watch
- Higher price point compared to competitors
Huawei Watch 2 Sport Smartwatch – Ceramic Bezel – Carbon Black Strap (US Warranty)
- Built-in GPS and continuous heart rate: monitor your heart rate and track your workout routes…
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- Workout Coach: get real-time guidance and workout data such as recovery time and Vo2 Max
SUUNTO 7
Combining sports expertise with smartwatch technology, The Suunto 7 offers accurate exercise tracking, access to over 70 sports modes, GPS, and a wrist heart rate sensor.
Compatible with Android and iOS phones, this smartwatch is powered by Wear OS by Google, allowing users to see incoming calls and messages, make payments, and download music for offline listening.
With its Scandinavian design and ultra-durable materials, Suunto 7 tracks sports, daily activity, and sleep and helps users maintain a balanced life, training, and recovery. It connects to favorite sports apps and services through the Suunto app, enabling users to share with sports communities and access specific training analysis and guidance.
Pros:
- Accurate exercise tracking
- Compatible with Android and iOS
- Access to over 70 sports modes
- Wrist heart rate sensor
- Connects to favorite sports apps and services
- Stylish design
- Ultra-durable materials
Cons:
- Mixed reviews about battery life
- Some users reported step inaccuracy
- Limited customization options
SUUNTO 7 GPS Sports Smart Watch, Graphite Copper
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Garmin Forerunner 945 Bundle
The Garmin Forerunner 945 is a high-end smartwatch designed for individuals who desire the freedom to explore and navigate without needing a separate device. With its premium GPS tracking and full-color onboard maps, users can confidently venture into new territories and easily find their way back.
The Forerunner 945 Bundle also boasts a range of performance monitoring features, including Vo2 Max and training status, making it an ideal companion for runners and triathletes.
This smartwatch offers safety and tracking features such as incident detection and real-time location sharing, providing an extra layer of security during workouts or outdoor activities.
Pros:
- Performance monitoring features for tracking fitness progress
- Safety and tracking features for added security during workouts
- Long battery life for extended use
- Garmin Pay for convenient contactless payments
Cons:
- Limited music options for audiobook and podcast enthusiasts
- Some users may find the price of the bundle to be on the higher side
- The larger display may not be suitable for individuals with smaller wrists.
Garmin Forerunner 945 Bundle, Premium GPS Running/Triathlon Smartwatch with Music, Blue
- Premium GPS running/triathlon Smartwatch with music
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- Performance monitoring features include Vo2 Max and training status with adjustments for heat,…
Garmin Venu 2S
The Garmin Venu 2S offers Google Maps navigation capabilities, making it a top choice. With its advanced health monitoring and fitness features, this smaller-sized smartwatch allows users to track their activities and navigate their surroundings seamlessly.
The Venu 2S boasts a bright AMOLED display and a battery life of up to 10 days in smartwatch mode, ensuring uninterrupted usage during outdoor adventures. It also offers extensive health monitoring features, including sleep tracking, stress tracking, and fitness age assessment.
The watch supports Garmin Pay for contactless payments and delivers smart notifications from compatible smartphones.
Pros:
- Advanced health monitoring features
- Bright AMOLED display
- Long battery life
- Music storage and wireless headphone connectivity
- Garmin Pay for contactless payments
Cons:
- The Stair stair-climbing feature may not be accurate
- Glitchy additional apps reported by a small number of owners
Garmin Venu 2S, Smaller-sized GPS Smartwatch with Advanced Health Monitoring and Fitness Features,…
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Understanding the Essentials of GPS Watch
A GPS watch is a wearable device that combines the functionality of a watch with GPS technology, allowing users to track their location and navigate their surroundings.
These watches work by receiving signals from multiple satellites and using that information to calculate precise positioning data.
The benefits of using a GPS watch include accurate tracking, improved navigation capabilities, and the ability to monitor performance during outdoor activities.
FAQ
What is a GPS Watch?
A GPS watch is a wearable device that combines the features of a traditional watch with the advanced capabilities of a Global Positioning System (GPS). It is designed to provide precise location tracking and navigation assistance, making it an ideal tool for outdoor activities such as hiking, running, and cycling.
These watches allow users to track their routes, monitor their speed and distance traveled, and even set waypoints for future reference. With the ability to connect to satellite networks, GPS watches offer accurate positioning and mapping capabilities that can help users explore new places and easily navigate unfamiliar terrains.
How Does a GPS Watch Work?
A GPS watch uses satellite technology for precise location tracking.
Here are three essential components that allow a GPS watch to function effectively:
Satellites: Signals are received from multiple satellites orbiting the Earth. These satellites transmit precise timing signals, which the watch uses to calculate its position.
Receiver: The watch contains a GPS receiver responsible for receiving and decoding the signals from the satellites. It then uses this information to determine the watch’s current location.
Mapping Software: GPS watches are equipped with mapping software that converts the received location data into a visual representation on the watch’s screen. This allows users to view their current position and reach their desired destination.
What Smartwatches Have Maps?
Several smartwatches on the market today come with built-in maps, allowing users to navigate and explore their surroundings without needing a smartphone. These smartwatches offer a convenient and hassle-free way to access maps and directions right from your wrist.
Here are three popular smartwatches that have maps:
Apple Watch SE: With its integrated Maps app, the Apple Watch SE enables users to view maps, get turn-by-turn directions, and even call for emergency assistance in case of an accident or injury.
Garmin Forerunner 945: This GPS running watch tracks your runs and workouts and includes preloaded maps that allow you to navigate trails and explore new routes effortlessly.
Garmin Enduro 2: It comes with TopoActive and ski maps for easy navigation and also features a Superbright LED flashlight.
These smartwatches empower users with the freedom to explore and navigate with ease, making them valuable companions for outdoor adventures and everyday activities.
What is a GPS smartwatch?
A GPS smartwatch is a wearable device that combines the features of a traditional watch with GPS technology. It lets you track your location, navigate routes, and access GPS-related services like Google Maps.
What are the best GPS smartwatches available?
The best reasonably-priced options include the Garmin Forerunner 955, Apple Watch SE, Ticwatch 3 Pro Ultra
If you have the funds, the Garmin Enduro 2 is our top recommendation for the best smartwatch with maps.
Can I use Google Maps on a smartwatch?
Yes, many smartwatches, especially those running on Wear OS, allow you to use the Google Maps app directly on your wrist. This feature makes it easy to navigate and get directions without having to pull out your phone.
What are the advantages of a smartwatch with Google Maps?
A smartwatch with Google Maps offers several advantages, including convenient access to navigation services, the ability to track your location in real-time, and integration with other smart features like Google Assistant and Google Pay.
Are there any specific smartwatches with built-in GPS?
Yes, there are several smartwatches available with built-in GPS. Some popular options include the Apple Watch SE, SUUNTO 7, and Garrmin Venu 2S. These watches eliminate the need for a separate GPS device.
