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  4. 10 Best GPS Running Watches in the Philippines 2024 | Buying Guide Reviewed by Fitness Coach
  • 10 Best GPS Running Watches in the Philippines 2024 | Buying Guide Reviewed by Fitness Coach 1
  • 10 Best GPS Running Watches in the Philippines 2024 | Buying Guide Reviewed by Fitness Coach 2
  • 10 Best GPS Running Watches in the Philippines 2024 | Buying Guide Reviewed by Fitness Coach 3
  • 10 Best GPS Running Watches in the Philippines 2024 | Buying Guide Reviewed by Fitness Coach 4
  • 10 Best GPS Running Watches in the Philippines 2024 | Buying Guide Reviewed by Fitness Coach 5

10 Best GPS Running Watches in the Philippines 2024 | Buying Guide Reviewed by Fitness Coach

A GPS running watch will definitely help improve your performance. It acts like a personal training partner that tracks your distance, location, heart rate, and other things. There are many running watches available on the market. Brands like Fitbit, Garmin, Suunto, Nike, and Polar are just some of the popular brands you can find out there. 


It can be difficult to choose which one is best for you because of their different features that can be useful to you. This article's buying guide, fact-checked by fitness coach Michelle Estuar, and our top 10  recommendations will help you choose the right one and introduce a few items you might like.

Last updated 07/14/2023
Michelle Estuar
Expert
Fitness Coach
Michelle Estuar

Michelle Estuar is the Head Coach of one of the indoor cycling studios in Metro Manila. She trains individuals interested in becoming cycling coaches. She also designs and develops programs to meet fitness goals. To add to that, she is a former triathlete, running coach, and ultra-marathoner, and has completed long-distance events such as a 102km run and a 10km open water swim. Michelle is addicted to anything related to sports and fitness as well as diet and nutrition. She has tried (and will keep on trying) the latest trends in diets, apps, equipment, gears, and accessories—she will do anything to stay fit and healthy.

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Our recommendation articles are carefully researched and crafted by the mybest Philippines team of writers and editors. To stay true to our company’s mission and vision to help users’ selection process easier, we also collaborate with experts from various fields to ensure that our content stays factual and useful.

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The expert oversees the Buying Guide only, and does not determine the products and services featured.

Table of Contents

GPS Running Watch Benefits

GPS Running Watch Benefits
If you want a running watch that comes with GPS, you can expect it to cost more. However, there are good features that come with the device to compensate for the hefty price tag. 

With a GPS running watch, you can check your distance, pace, time, and route. If you plan on participating in short- or long-distance events, you can benefit from a GPS running watch, but of course, it's not a must, and you also don't need to participate in any event to get a good watch.


The GPS feature can also record running routes. The data recorded can tell you your weak and strong points during your runs. Many modern GPS running watches can now easily send data to your computer with the help of either a Bluetooth or USB connection. Therefore, you can record and manage all the data coming from wearing the device.

How to Choose a GPS Running Watch – Buying Guide

Here are some key points to consider:

  1. Choose a running watch that gives the information you need.
  2. Choose a running watch with adequate battery life.
  3. Water-resistant running watches for versatility.
  4. Check if the display brightness is enough even in dark environments.
  5. Inspect application compatibility and usefulness.
  6. Look for other features that you might need.
  7. Choose the design and weight that's best for you.

For more detailed information, read through our buying guide below.

1

Choose a Running Watch That Gives the Information You Need

You should not spend more money for a running watch with features that you might not need, so consider buying a running watch that provides information that you only need. Think of the things that you need to track when working out, so you can choose the watch that suits you, whether it is a basic running watch, mid-level watch, or advanced running watch.

Basic Running Watches for Newbies

Basic Running Watches for Newbies

If you only need to track your distance, pace, and time, a basic GPS running watch is enough for you. You can track the number of steps you have taken and have the GPS record the distance and route you have taken. There are also basic running watches that have heart rate monitors.


You can also receive text notifications with this kind of watch. Basic running watches are ideal for newbies or those who just want to keep their progress without the other features included. 

A Mid-Level Running Watch for More Features

A Mid-Level Running Watch for More Features

If you want more features in your running watch, getting a mid-level watch is a good idea. Aside from tracking the distance, pace, and time during your workout, a mid-level watch can provide features, such as a built-in accelerometer, training estimates, and longer battery life. These features are useful if you want to see more detailed progress on your activity.


This is also a good watch to use if you are getting more serious in your training or looking for extra data to keep track of your progress, so you can see how much you have progressed. If you are willing to spend a little more money on extra features, this is worth buying.

Go for an Advanced Running Watch for In-Depth Data

Go for an Advanced Running Watch for In-Depth Data

For serious athletes, getting an advanced or multisports watch can be useful because it can monitor different things that can be useful for your training. It has an advanced GPS function and provides advanced training data. It also has different sports modes that you can use to get in-depth data to see your progress.


This kind of watch is ideal for triathletes, duathletes, runners, and those who are seriously training for fitness and health. It also has the longest battery life, so you can use it for longer hours. This can cost a fortune, but it can be a good investment if you are really serious about running.

2

Choose a Running Watch With Adequate Battery Life

Choose a Running Watch With Adequate Battery Life
Most running watches are rechargeable, but their battery can only last for a few hours to a few days at most. Some long-distance runners are sometimes faced with challenges because of their short battery life. It is important to check if the battery lasts long, so your activities can be recorded entirely.

Turning the GPS will also eat up the battery faster than you think. People who only run short distances may not have too much to worry about. However, individuals who like to run marathons might want to consider a GPS running watch with long battery life. You can also look for solar-powered running watches, so you do not have to worry about the battery as long as there is light.

3

Water-Resistant Running Watches for Versatility

Water-Resistant Running Watches for Versatility
You should also consider getting a GPS running watch that is water-resistant to prevent it from getting damaged. In case the weather takes a turn for the worst, you can rest assured that your watch will not break down. Even when you’re running outside on a sunny day, sweat can damage an ordinary smartwatch. 

If you also want to train in different weather conditions, you need to get a water-resistant running watch. Some GPS running watches have a higher water-resistant rating than others. Hence, these are perfect for swimming, triathlons, and other water-based sports and activities.

4

Check if the Display Brightness Is Enough Even in Dark Environments

Check if the Display Brightness Is Enough Even in Dark Environments
Under very bright light or in very dark places, it might be hard to see the smartwatch screen, so make sure the brightness can be adjusted depending on the environment. Furthermore, it might be in your best interest to get a watch that has a user-friendly interface and readable text for maximum usability.
5

Inspect Application Compatibility and Usefulness

Inspect Application Compatibility and Usefulness

Most, if not all, modern GPS running watches come with accompanying mobile applications. You can use the information gathered by the app to check your daily progress, and if it's your thing, you can post it on your social media accounts as well! 


Be sure that the GPS running watch that you will buy is compatible with your phone version and operating system so that it can be synced easily and you can track your progress and see the details you need.

6

Look for Other Features That You Might Need

GPS running watches now come with different features, which you might find useful for your activity. These features might be available in more advanced designs of running watches. Let’s take a look at some of the functions necessary for your runs.

Have a Running Watch With a Heart Rate Monitor

Have a Running Watch With a Heart Rate Monitor

A heart rate monitor allows you to keep track of your heart rate while you run. This can tell you if you need to adjust or maintain your pace in order to achieve your training goal while keeping your heart healthy and strong.


Some GPS running watches with heart-rate monitors come with peripherals that attach to the chest of the user to effectively measure heart rates. There are also wrist-based heart rate monitors that do not require additional accessories to measure the heart rate. 


Running watches that come with both GPS and a heart-rate monitor might have a higher price tag than others. However, such a device will present itself with excellent value for money for its users.

Get a Running Watch With a Touchscreen Interface for Easy Use

Get a Running Watch With a Touchscreen Interface for Easy Use
Many GPS running watches now come with touchscreen displays, so you can operate its different features with a simple touch on the screen. You can use the smartwatch just like a smartphone with a smaller screen!

The final decision still relies heavily on personal preference. If you choose a touchscreen display over a button-style smartwatch, you can take advantage of the ease of use. However, there are some running watches that come with displays that are too sensitive for their own good. A slight touch of your finger might trigger the watch to operate.


On the contrary, button-type running watches will have a tactile feel that most variants with touchscreen interfaces don’t have. Still, the design might interfere with comfort because of a dial or button. Always consider the pros and cons of your choice before deciding on what to purchase.

G-Sensor to Continuously Record Your Activities

G-Sensor to Continuously Record Your Activities

Some GPS running watches come with a feature known as G-sensor. This allows you to measure mileage and speed acceleration even without GPS. It's ideal for indoor running, or when you're on a treadmill. This can also provide you with reliable data wherever you go. Not all running watches have G-sensor, so you might need to spend a little more if you need this feature.

7

Choose the Design and Weight That's Best for You

Choose the Design and Weight That's Best for You

Choose a watch that can show your personality or a design that can adapt to your workout and lifestyle. There are many styles in the market that you can choose from. When it comes to weight, be sure to check it before purchasing, as it may affect you during training.

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10 Best GPS Running Watches to Buy Online

The products we introduce below were carefully curated by the mybest team, from the best-sellers of E-commerce sites like Lazada, and using the points mentioned in our detailed and thoroughly researched buying guide.
Popularity
Products
Image
Click to purchase
Price
Key features
1

Garmin

Venu Sq

Garmin Venu Sq  1

₱14,495

Mid

An Elegant Looking Watch That Can Monitor Your Health

2

Coros

APEX 46 Premium Multisport Watch

Coros APEX 46 Premium Multisport Watch 1

₱19,250

High Mid

A Watch You Can Use for Triathlon

3

Fitbit

Versa 3 Smartwatch

Fitbit Versa 3 Smartwatch 1

₱14,790

Mid

Train Smarter With This Running Watch

4

Garmin

Forerunner 45 GPS Running Smartwatch

Garmin Forerunner 45 GPS Running Smartwatch 1

₱11,895

Low Mid

A Running Watch With Incident Detection Feature

5

Samsung

Galaxy Watch3

Samsung Galaxy Watch3 1

₱20,990

High Mid

A Sophisticated Watch With Smartphone Capabilities

6

Huawei

GT 2 Pro Smart Watch

Huawei GT 2 Pro Smart Watch 1

₱11,999

Low Mid

An Elegant Looking Watch That You Can Use in Any Occasion

7

Amazfit

T-Rex Smart Watch

Amazfit T-Rex Smart Watch 1

₱8,990

Low Mid

A Heavy Duty Watch for Your Everyday Activities

8

Garmin

Forerunner 235

Garmin Forerunner 235 1

₱8,230

Low

A Feature-Packed Fitness Partner

9

Apple

Watch Series 6

Apple Watch Series 6 1

₱22,990

High Mid

For the Sporty Fashionista

10

Polar

Vantage M Watch

Polar Vantage M Watch 1

₱21,500

High Mid

A Good Watch to Use for Competitive Running

If you don't see the product you're looking for, you can request that it be listed.
No.1

GarminVenu Sq

Venu Sq  1
Source:cf.shopee.ph
Venu Sq  2
Source:cf.shopee.ph
Venu Sq  3
Source:cf.shopee.ph
Reference price
₱14,495
Mid
Reference price
₱14,495
Mid

An Elegant Looking Watch That Can Monitor Your Health

You can use this watch not only for monitoring your activities but you can also use it for everyday use since its design can suit every outfit. It is loaded with features to monitor your health and fitness activities. It can also monitor your body's energy level, so you can find the best time to do your activity and rest.


The Pulse Ox sensor gauges the blood oxygen saturation during the day and when sleeping. The dedicated women's health tracking can help track menstrual cycle and pregnancy. You can also log your daily water intake to be sure that you are hydrated at all times. You can track your heart rate using this watch to alert you if your heart rate is too high or too low.


This watch also allows you to see calls, texts, and social media alerts, so you won't miss things out. It is compatible with iPhone and Android phones, so you can sync it easily. You won't be needing other things if you have this watch.

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No.2

CorosAPEX 46 Premium Multisport Watch

Reference price
₱19,250
High Mid

A Watch You Can Use for Triathlon

The Coros APEX 46 Premium isn’t just for running, but it’s also an ideal choice if you want a tracker during triathlons. This device is an advanced multi-sports GPS watch that can keep track of a range of sporting activities and training regimens. It has an optical heart rate sensor to accurately monitor your heart rate.

This also has long-lasting battery life, so you do not have to charge it every now and then. It has a digital dial to easily navigate through your watch and focus on your run. Another good feature of this watch is it notifies you when to rest to avoid injuries by showing the advised recovery window before starting your next activity.


The COROS Training Mode allows you to make your own workout regimen or download workouts from professionals. It is also loaded with 200+ exercises that you can use to improve your strength and stamina. This is also ideal for people who are into competitive sports and want to take advantage of the advanced features.

No.3

FitbitVersa 3 Smartwatch

Versa 3 Smartwatch 1
Source:shopee.ph
Versa 3 Smartwatch 2
Source:shopee.ph
Reference price
₱14,790
Mid

Train Smarter With This Running Watch

The Versa 3 is a mid-range offering by Fitbit that allows you to take advantage of a good number of useful features. It comes with GPS tracking, heart-rate monitoring, and activity tracking features. Its GPS tracking functionality even allows you to monitor your pace and elevation. It even comes with a reasonably straightforward design.


You can also see your time in light, deep, and REM sleep and get a Sleep Score through the Fitbit app. This watch can track your activities like steps, distance, floors climbed, and calories you burned to show your everyday progress. Ladies can also log their periods, track their ovulation, and discover patterns in their cycle.


This GPS running watch looks like an ordinary digital wristwatch from afar. Therefore, it’s perfect for people who don’t want to let the watch scream to the world that they’re on a fitness routine.

No.4

GarminForerunner 45 GPS Running Smartwatch

Forerunner 45 GPS Running Smartwatch 1
Source:cf.shopee.ph
Forerunner 45 GPS Running Smartwatch 2
Source:cf.shopee.ph
Forerunner 45 GPS Running Smartwatch 3
Source:cf.shopee.ph
Reference price
₱11,895
Low Mid
Reference price
₱11,895
Low Mid

A Running Watch With Incident Detection Feature

It would be difficult if you get into an incident or if you do not feel safe while running alone. This watch can help you in those times through its built-in incident detection and assistance features. It sends your location to your emergency contacts if it senses that there is an incident. This watch also tracks your steps, intensity, and time.


It can also track your stress level to know if you are calm or having a stressful day and will prompt you to do a short breathing activity. The body battery energy monitor can track your body's energy level to let you know when to rest and do your activity. You can also switch from one routine to another using its built-in sports apps and record your progress.


You can also receive email and text message notifications on your watch, so you won't miss anything. If you are looking for a basic running watch that is loaded with features you need, getting this watch is worth your money.

No.5

SamsungGalaxy Watch3

Galaxy Watch3 1
Source:shopee.ph
Galaxy Watch3 2
Source:shopee.ph
Galaxy Watch3 3
Source:shopee.ph
Galaxy Watch3 4
Source:shopee.ph
Reference price
₱20,990
High Mid
Reference price
₱20,990
High Mid

A Sophisticated Watch With Smartphone Capabilities

This watch is good to use when running because it has advanced health monitoring that can monitor your blood oxygen, track your sleep, and measure VO2. The running guide provides tips to improve your form and prevent injuries. You can also measure your blood pressure and monitor your heart rate with ECG monitoring.


If you are looking for a running watch that can replace your phone while you are working out, this one is for you. It can be used to call, send text messages, and listen to music. You won't miss anything while you are running since you can get notifications on your watch. It has a stainless steel body and leather strap to give it a classic and premium design.


However, this is on the expensive side because of the other features included. You can look for another one with the same features but cheaper if you like. If you really need those features and the watch suits your needs, you can go with this one.

No.6

HuaweiGT 2 Pro Smart Watch

GT 2 Pro Smart Watch 1
Source:shopee.ph
GT 2 Pro Smart Watch 2
Source:shopee.ph
Reference price
₱11,999
Low Mid
Reference price
₱11,999
Low Mid

An Elegant Looking Watch That You Can Use in Any Occasion

This classy-looking multisport watch is loaded with great features that you can use to provide data with whatever workout you are doing. With its 100+ workout modes, you can be sure that everything is recorded in this watch. It also features 10 running courses to give you suggestions for better training.


It also provides accurate monitoring of the heart rate and detects the level of oxygen in the blood. It can also monitor your sleep to diagnose 6 common sleep issues and provide suggestions for better sleep. The TruRelax Technology offers all-day stress monitoring, so you can do something to release your stress.


You can also store up to 500 songs in this watch, so you can run while listening to music without your phone. Another feature of this watch is you can receive, reject, or mute calls while you are running with the use of Bluetooth.

No.7

AmazfitT-Rex Smart Watch

T-Rex Smart Watch 1
Source:shopee.ph
T-Rex Smart Watch 2
Source:shopee.ph
Reference price
₱8,990
Low Mid
Reference price
₱8,990
Low Mid

A Heavy Duty Watch for Your Everyday Activities

This heavy-duty multisports watch is a good companion when you are running or doing other kinds of sports. Its high-precision GPS dual satellite positioning can locate your position more accurately. It also has Huami's self-developed sensor to monitor the heart rate all day and reminds you to stand up to develop healthy habits.


With its 14 sports modes, you will be able to get data from all your activities. It can also monitor your exercise heart rate and duration for a safer workout. It has ultra-long battery life, so you do not have to worry about your watch shutting down while running. You can also receive call reminders, weather forecasts, and app notifications, so you won't miss anything.

No.8

GarminForerunner 235

Reference price
₱8,230
Low

A Feature-Packed Fitness Partner

Take one look at the Forerunner 235 by Garmin, and you’ll be swept by the broad range of features it has to offer. This running watch can track heart rate, pace, time, and distance, just to name a few. It also has an activity tracker to help you measure and monitor distance, calories, and even sleep.

It has easy-to-understand charts, graphs, and maps that show you your progress and give the data you need. It is also compatible with iPhone and Android phones, so you won't have any problem syncing it to your phone. Its sensors can be used to locate your position, monitor your heart rate, and calculate the distance.

No.9

AppleWatch Series 6

Watch Series 6 1
Source:lazada.com.ph
Watch Series 6 2
Source:lazada.com.ph
Reference price
₱22,990
High Mid
Reference price
₱22,990
High Mid

For the Sporty Fashionista

This GPS running watch allows you to choose from a good number of differently-colored straps. Everything from the straps to the watch face itself screams fashionable and functional. This smartwatch even comes with an ambient light sensor. This feature allows users to see what’s on the display even when they’re running under direct sunlight.


You can measure your blood oxygen and check your heart rhythm using the ECG app. It also has different sports modes that you can use to track your activities. The watch even comes with Wi-Fi connectivity, thereby making it one of the most accessible and easy-to-operate running watches on the market.

No.10

PolarVantage M Watch

Vantage M Watch 1
Source:lazada.com.ph
Vantage M Watch 2
Source:lazada.com.ph
Reference price
₱21,500
High Mid
Reference price
₱21,500
High Mid

A Good Watch to Use for Competitive Running

This watch has advanced features and is ideal for people who are into competitive sports. It is loaded with features that you might find useful to improve your training program. The Precision Prime sensor fusion technology is used to monitor the heart rate from the wrist, so you do not need to wear a chest strap heart rate monitor. 


It also has a training program feature that allows you to make a plan to train for an event. It gathers data based on your metrics and makes a plan using them. You can easily train for 5k, 10k, half marathon, and full marathon using the data saved in your watch. 


When you are sleeping, it can track the amount and quality of your sleep and can show you how long you spent in each stage. This one is on the expensive side, but with its features, it is worth it. If you are really serious about running and plan on joining competitions, this is a good choice.

Getting Ready to Run? Get These Items That You Can Use After Running

There are things that you need to prepare when runinng or working, so you can have something when you are done. Look at these simple but useful items that you can use after doing your activities.

How We Chose and Ranked Our Product Recommendations

Our buying guide was carefully researched and crafted by the mybest team of writers and editors, in collaboration with the expert featured in this article. We used the buying guide as a basis for choosing and ranking the product recommendations, and we looked at reviews and ratings from different E-commerce sites like Lazada, Shopee, and more.

Top 5 GPS Running Watches

No. 1: GarminVenu Sq

No. 2: CorosAPEX 46 Premium Multisport Watch

No. 3: FitbitVersa 3 Smartwatch

No. 4: GarminForerunner 45 GPS Running Smartwatch

No. 5: SamsungGalaxy Watch3

View Full Ranking
The descriptions of each product are referenced from content available on manufacturer, brand, and e-commerce sites.
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