Best Overall

Garmin Forerunner 265

Name: Garmin Forerunner 265
Brand: Garmin
Rating: 4.5 (4 reviews)

The sweet spot between serious running features and everyday smartwatch usability. Runners across Reddit consistently point to it for its AMOLED display, deep training metrics, and multi-day battery life.

$299-$349

Amazon

Pros

Excellent GPS accuracy for run tracking
Multi-day battery life far exceeding Apple Watch
Rich training metrics including VO2 max, recovery advisor, and training load
Solid smartwatch features alongside running tools

Cons

More expensive than entry-level Garmin options like the FR55
Bulkier than a typical lifestyle smartwatch
Some advanced metrics require time to calibrate accurately

Why we recommend it

If you're serious about running and want one watch that does everything well, the FR265 is the one to get — it's the watch Reddit runners keep recommending when someone asks what to upgrade to.

Sources

reddit.comRunning Watch Recommendation : r/firstmarathon

nytimes.comThe 3 Best GPS Running Watches of 2026 | Wirecutter

tomsguide.comBest running watches 2026 | Tom's Guide

Reddit user

“Went from Apple Watch to FR265 and I love it. The metrics and battery life is amazing. Perfect amount of smartwatch mixed with running watch.”

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