Why a Fitness Smartwatch is Essential
Modern smartwatches are far more than just timepieces. They are personal trainers, health monitors and motivational coaches all in one. For athletes and health-conscious people, they have become indispensable companions.
Key Points at a Glance
- GPS Accuracy: Crucial for precise distance and speed measurement
- Heart Rate Sensor: Optical sensors are standard, chest strap more accurate
- Battery Life: 3-7 days in smartwatch mode, 10-50h with GPS
- Water Resistance: 5ATM/50m for swimming, 10ATM/100m for water sports
Benefits of a Fitness Smartwatch
Heart Rate Monitoring
24/7 heart rate monitoring for optimal training and health control.
GPS Tracking
Precise recording of routes, distances and speeds without smartphone.
Sleep Analysis
Detailed sleep phase analysis for better recovery and health.
Swimming Tracking
Waterproof models track swimming style, laps and swimming efficiency.
Our Test Criteria for Fitness Smartwatches
In our comprehensive test, we evaluated all smartwatches according to practical criteria:
GPS Accuracy
Precision in distance, speed and route recording
Heart Rate Accuracy
Comparison with chest strap measurements at various intensities
Battery Life
Runtime in everyday use and GPS-intensive sports activities
Smart Features
App ecosystem, notifications and connectivity
Top 10 Fitness Smartwatches 2025 Test Results
1. Garmin Fenix 7X Solar
The ultimate sports watch for professionals and ambitious athletes. Most precise GPS measurement, solar charging and inexhaustible range of functions.
Advantages
- Exceptional GPS accuracy
- Solar charging extends battery life
- Comprehensive training analysis
- Military standard robust
Disadvantages
- Very high price
- Complex for beginners
- Large and heavy
Sports & Features
2. Apple Watch Ultra 2
Apple's flagship for extreme athletes. Precise dual-GPS, robust titanium case and perfect integration into the Apple ecosystem.
3. Polar Vantage V3
Specifically developed for endurance athletes. Precise heart rate measurement, scientific training analysis and exceptional battery life.
Detailed Comparison of Top 5
| Model | GPS Systems | Battery (GPS) | Waterproof | Special Feature | Price |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Garmin Fenix 7X Solar | Multi-GNSS | 89h (+Solar) | 10ATM | Solar charging | €899 |
| Apple Watch Ultra 2 | Dual-GPS | 36h | 100m | Titanium case | €899 |
| Polar Vantage V3 | Dual-GPS | 140h | 5ATM | Endurance focus | €699 |
| Samsung Galaxy Watch 6 | GPS+GLONASS | 15h | 5ATM | Wear OS | €399 |
| Amazfit GTR 4 | Dual-GPS | 24h | 5ATM | Price-performance | €199 |
The Best Smartwatch for Your Sport
Running & Jogging
Important: GPS accuracy, heart rate, running efficiency metrics
Budget Tip: Amazfit GTR 4
Features: PacePro, Running Power, VO2max
Cycling
Important: GPS precision, ANT+ connectivity, power measurement
Alternative: Polar Vantage V3
Features: Cycling Dynamics, FTP, ClimbPro
Swimming
Important: Water resistance, swimming style recognition, pool/open water
Alternative: Garmin Fenix 7X Solar
Features: SWOLF, stroke count, waterproof up to 100m
Fitness & Strength Training
Important: Heart rate zones, recovery measurement, workout modes
Android Tip: Samsung Galaxy Watch 6
Features: Workout app, Fitness+, activity rings
Battery Life in Detail
| Model | Smartwatch Mode | GPS + Heart Rate | GPS Only | UltraTrac Mode |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Garmin Fenix 7X Solar | 28 days (+Solar) | 89h (+Solar) | 136h | 578h |
| Polar Vantage V3 | 8 days | 61h | 140h | - |
| Apple Watch Ultra 2 | 36h | 12h | 36h (Low Power) | - |
| Samsung Galaxy Watch 6 | 40h | 8h | 15h | - |
| Amazfit GTR 4 | 14 days | 16h | 24h | - |
Battery Saving Tips
- Disable always-on display
- Increase GPS interval (Smart Recording)
- Turn off unnecessary notifications
- Turn off WiFi and Bluetooth when needed
- Reduce screen brightness
- UltraTrac mode for long activities
Health Features Comparison
| Feature | Garmin Fenix 7X | Apple Watch Ultra 2 | Polar Vantage V3 | Samsung Galaxy Watch 6 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 24/7 Heart Rate | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ |
| ECG Measurement | ✗ | ✓ | ✗ | ✓ |
| Sleep Analysis | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ Premium | ✓ |
| Stress Monitoring | ✓ HRV | ✓ | ✓ Serene | ✓ |
| VO2max | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | ~ |
| Blood Oxygen | ✓ Pulse Ox | ✓ | ✗ | ✓ SpO2 |
Conclusion: The Best Fitness Smartwatch for You
The Garmin Fenix 7X Solar is the ultimate choice for serious athletes and outdoor enthusiasts. Solar charging and unrivaled GPS accuracy justify the premium price.
iPhone users should choose the Apple Watch Ultra 2 - it offers the best integration into the Apple ecosystem and robust construction for extreme sports.
For endurance athletes, the Polar Vantage V3 is ideal - with scientifically-based training analysis and exceptional battery life.
Budget-conscious buyers will find an excellent alternative in the Amazfit GTR 4 with the most important fitness features at a fair price.
