In the box of reasons FOR buying another gadget instead of running with an app on your phone is the fact that even novice runners need to know their heart rate, pace and mileage. And for those who are ready to achieve goals and progress, they cannot do without a smart and sometimes speaking assistant.
Choosing a watch is almost like buying a car. We read reviews, consult with a friend, go to shops to feel. Marathon Academy takes the headache away from you and offers a complete watch selection guide. Enjoy!
First, let's figure out what features you need. There are a lot of them in watches, and the chosen model and its cost depend on your needs.
GPS. Thanks to it, the speed and distance are measured, the route track is drawn. If you happen to run in the woods and get lost, an advanced GPS watch will make the task of rescuers much easier. Also measures height.
heart rate monitor essential for runners of all skill levels. Without understanding your heart rate zone, it will not be possible to give an adequate load and understand the effectiveness of training. The watch comes with or without a chest strap, in which case you need to buy it separately. Modern models already come with a built-in LED sensor, it measures the pulse directly on the wrist. This allows you to measure during the day or in your sleep if the watch is not removed.
VO2max. Measurement of the maximum amount of oxygen consumed - an indicator of endurance. Usually the measurement is made in the laboratory, but sports watches have also learned to cope with it.
Recovery time. The device analyzes the indicators and gives a forecast of how much time is needed for rest and recovery so that the training is as effective as possible.
Calorie counter. A feature that came from fitness bracelets. The calories burned during the workout are counted.
Autopause- a useful feature for those who run down the street and stop at traffic lights. The tracker pauses your run.
Virtual partner(for solo runners). Creates the illusion of running with a partner who is running slightly faster than you.
Workout planner. Advanced watch models can make a plan for you depending on your goals. But it is better to consult with a live coach.
Synchronization with smartphone or computer. All gadgets have this feature, but manufacturers have different applications.
Watch weight. Pay attention to how comfortable you are to run with the device.
Battery. The battery capacity of different models is about the same, but the use of GPS and Bluetooth makes the watch sit faster. You don't want to be without a tracker for a marathon, do you?
Important: The built-in heart rate monitors (at least on the top Garmin models) are not suitable for a full-fledged interval training. They have large delays in readings and a serious inaccuracy, up to 15 beats of a difference. Therefore, it is better to purchase a chest heart rate monitor separately, the same Garmin or Polar. The latter are a little cheaper and no worse.
But the main criterion when choosing a watch is the budget. Below we present the most popular models in three price categories. Prices are indicated in two versions: in Russia and from foreign sites. Official dealers in Russia have watches in stock and with a Russian guarantee. But the goods are much more expensive than if you buy in Europe / USA. You can order on trusted Western sites. Find a suitable design model in Moscow stores, and then place an order on one of these sites:
ebay.com
bike24.com
bike-discount.de
wiggle.com
Despite the tangible difference in price, remember that when buying a watch from an official representative, you also receive warranty support and service. Whereas when ordering online, you will have to wait for delivery and you will receive only a worldwide guarantee.
So, checklist before buying:
With a chest heart rate monitor (the clearest way to determine the pulse).
So that there is synchronization via Bluetooth (it is convenient to synchronize workouts with the application).
Within your budget.
Up to 10.000 rubles
Suunto SS015855000
They have the simplest functions for monitoring heart rate with a transition to pulse zones, calorie consumption, and even gives recommendations for training in real time.
They have several color options if that matters to you.
In Russia - from 7,400 rubles
Polar M200
They have all the features for successful workouts: GPS, pedometer and total physical activity meter, sleep tracker, heart rate sensor. Completely waterproof and have interchangeable straps.
In Russia - from 6,150 rubles
Bike 24 - from 6,000 rubles
10.000-20.000 rubles
Garmin 35
Garmin Forerunner 35 - base model sports watch with GPS navigator, built-in heart rate monitor, activity tracker, tracking sleep and calories.
In Russia - from 7,900 rubles
Bike 24 - from 6,500 rubles
Suunto Spartan Trainer Wrist HR Black
A complete running and triathlon watch with built-in optical heart rate, power measurement (for running and cycling), navigation support, multisport features, extensive sport configuration and sleep tracking. Fully justify their cost.
In Russia - from 17,000 rubles
Bike 24 - from 11,000 rubles
Garmin 235
The Garmin Forerunner 235 is a great sports watch with GPS navigation, a built-in heart rate monitor, an activity tracker that tracks sleep and calories, and a built-in accelerometer to track distance and pace while you run. Designed to be worn 24 hours a day, this device won't miss the slightest detail in your activity. Branded software transmits notifications from a smartphone to the watch screen, and the number and colors of interchangeable straps make them suitable for both men and women.
In Russia - from 15,500 rubles
Above 20.000 rubles
Garmin 735XT HRM Run
If you think that a sports watch is just a beautiful accessory, then you are wrong. It's a powerful tool for tracking many aspects of how you feel when you're physically active. This gadget is a must for beginner runners: it will help to control the level of loads, observe the optimal mode and analyze progress. Experienced athletes will achieve more from training if all indicators of activity are at hand (more precisely, on the arm).
This material will introduce you to the best offers from the category of running watches. Here you will find both budget options for the amateur level, as well as advanced ones for serious athletes. But before we get to the actual offerings, let's take a look at the sports running watches that will hit the market very soon.
Coming Soon: Garmin Forerunner 45 / 245 Music / 945
A few hours of running with GPS from the American manufacturer Garmin are on the way. Pre-order on the official website is already open, soon new items will appear in other stores.
Forerunner 45 belongs to the primary category. The watch is equipped with a heart rate sensor, GPS, sleep tracking, Body Battery, and a set of profiles for gym and outdoor activities. They have access to free Garmin Coach adaptive training plans. There are four colors and two sizes to choose from - 39 and 42 mm.
Forerunner 245- The successor to the popular Forerunner 235 model. An innovation was the music options with the ability to listen to streaming audio from Spotify and Deezer services, as well as download tracks to internal storage. Also, the watch is equipped with heart rate and Pulse Ox sensors. The latter determines how well the body absorbs oxygen during exercise. In the next update, the watch will receive a women's health tracking function.
Forerunner 945- Top notch offer. The watch has a built-in media storage, a contactless payment system, an emergency call function and a huge range of various sports modes adjusted for heat, acclimatization and individual human performance.
Garmin Forerunner 935: The best GPS and heart rate watch for running
Price: 29 999 rubles
While the Forerunner 945 hasn't been widely available yet, the best running watches are the Forerunner 935 - light, accurate and incredibly comfortable.
They are designed to track a variety of running activities, including trail running. The heart rate sensor from Elevate provides heart rate tracking not only during exercise, but throughout the day. In addition to heart rate, speed, pace and distance data, the watch collects information about the degree of absorption of oxygen in the body, calculates individual performance indicators and recommended rest time.
The optical sensor demonstrates high information content during moderate-intensity exercises, however, during heavy loads, its accuracy drops. For the most accurate calculations, we recommend using an ANT+ chest heart rate monitor with Forerunner 935. The watch can also work in conjunction with the Garmin Running Dynamics Pod, which detects six running modes, foot-to-ground contact time, stride length, and more.
Forerunner 935 is a sports watch with GPS and a heart rate monitor for the general public. They are suitable for those who are serious about training, and those who exercise from time to time. Non-professional athletes can also look at more budget options like the Forerunner 235 or Forerunner 245, and for marathon runners, the Garmin Fenix 5 will seem an interesting model.
Garmin Forerunner 35: The Best Cheap GPS Watch for Running
Price: 11 790 rubles
Many running watches have impressive functionality and are not cheap. But there are options for those who want a good watch with GPS and a heart rate monitor without Olympic-level stats. One of them is the Garmin Forerunner 35, a wearable gadget for collecting data on running pace, distance and heart rate.
Like the rest of the Garmin lineup, the Forerunner 35 features Elevate heart rate technology. It gives a clear picture of the pulse at loads of low and medium intensity. To get detailed information about the work of the heart during high loads, the watch must be connected to a chest ANT+ heart rate monitor.
The design is simple and neat. The screen contains a lot of useful information. Thanks to its 5 ATM water resistance, the watch can be used in the rain and in the pool. For lovers of swimming, cycling and cardio, appropriate modes are provided.
For about the same price, the next generation sports watch, the Garmin Forerunner 45, will soon be available. In terms of design, they differ in a round dial, but the feature set is about the same.
Garmin Forerunner 235: #2 Best Cheap Running Watch
Price: 17 290 rubles
Now this is one of the most profitable offers: the watch is already 4 years old, and after the announcement of Forerunner 245, the price dropped even lower. This is the first model that was designed with thin wrists in mind, so it is recommended primarily for women.
This running watch uses an optical heart rate monitor from Elevate (the same used in the Garmin Forerunner 935, which are priced at twice the price). Forerunner 235 premium devices have got the technology to change the level of oxygen in the blood. In addition to it, a full set of basic functions is presented, including tracking sleep, number of steps, etc. There are not many cheap running watches with such a set of functions in the Garmin line of sports gadgets.
Garmin Fenix 5S Plus: The Best Women's Running Watch
Price: 61 450 rubles
This wearable gadget looks like a normal one. It is aimed at serious athletes and athletes with thin wrists. With a 42 mm case, the weight is 69 g.
The 5S Plus is a smaller version of the Fenix 5 Plus without sacrificing performance. It has Google Pay contactless payment, a heart rate monitor, built-in storage, color maps, access to Garmin Connect IQ, and an incredible set of stats tools.
There are modes for both popular and specific sports - running, cycling, swimming, golf, kayaking, rowing, etc. The accessory works with satellite systems and Galileo. With always-on GPS, it will work up to 11 hours. In normal mode, autonomy is about a week.
Polar Vantage M: #2 best women's running watch
Price: 19 990 rubles
The stylish Polar Vantage V (pictured below) won't be affordable for everyone. Its closest alternative from the same manufacturer is the Vantage M.
Model M has almost all the features of its expensive counterpart, is distinguished by a convenient design, interchangeable straps and decent autonomy (about 30 hours in active mode).
A smart sports watch not only collects statistics about physical activity, but also analyzes it to help you optimize your workouts and allow enough time for recovery between activities. This is an accessory for those who understand that high sports achivments depend not only on grueling workouts, but also on proper rest.
Polar Vantage V: The best watch for interval training
Price: 34 990 rubles
The 2014 Polar V800 was replaced by the Polar Vantage V. Thanks to an expanded set of statistical tools, the gadget has entered the ranks of professional-level sports accessories.
In addition to heart rate monitoring, the Vantage V tracks running power without the need for additional accessories. Running power is the force applied by an athlete to push off the ground and keep running at current speed. In some ways, this is a more accurate measure of performance than heart rate. When used wisely, running power data helps you use your body's reserves wisely and save energy over long distances.
This is not all. Polar Vantage V is a GPS and heart rate running watch that helps you optimize your rest intervals. 40 hours of battery life is a clear advantage over the Polar V800, as is the design and set of training modes.
Garmin Fenix 5 Plus: The best watch for music runners
Price: 61 450 rubles
To the amateur athlete, the Fenix 5 Plus may seem over-loaded with settings. However, thanks to a recent update, this running watch has acquired a curious feature that will interest a wide audience.
The Fenix 5 Plus is one of the best running watches out there, there's no doubt about it. For all kinds of outdoor activities, they offer specialized modes. There's an option for running, trail running, hiking, SUP surfing, and even skydiving.
Blood oxygen saturation, body recovery time, expected training efficiency and much more can be measured by the built-in optical sensor. Only the Forerunner 935 offers such abundant running statistics in the entire Garmin line, except for the Fenix 5 Plus.
For those who don't get stuck on one route, the watch offers a set of color maps with the ability to download custom routes in GPX format. This is their main difference from the base Fenix 5 model.
The latest update brought the ability to play tracks offline from Spotify. Add to that Garmin Pay support and you have one of the best feature-packed sports watches around.
Suunto 9: the best running watch with a big battery
Price: 33 990 rubles
In addition to running, they offer a huge number of other activities, but the manufacturer paid the most attention to autonomy. In the toughest power saving mode with GPS turned on, the gadget will last 120 hours.
Before starting a workout, the watch will notify the user how much charge remains. You can switch to energy-saving mode right during the workout.
The watch gives amazingly accurate speed readings. The FusedSpeed function is responsible for this: it compares satellite geodata with information received from the acceleration sensor. This is especially necessary when running on rough terrain, during interval training, or when the GPS signal is lost due to tall buildings, trees, or other obstructions.
Despite all the interesting features, some users are unhappy with the interface of Suunto 9 and the poor mobile app. So if convenience and sports functionality are above autonomy for you, pay attention to the line of sports running shoes.
Apple Watch Series 4: the best smartwatch with run monitoring
Price: from 26,600 rubles
The first were not sharpened either for running or for other sports activities. A lot has changed since then: now watchOS 5 offers everything you need for both work and active pastime.
Built-in GPS-module catches satellites almost instantly. The watch can sync with playlists in Apple Music, and you can also pay with it in stores where there are terminals. The watch has a modification with an LTE module, in this case streaming music playback and mobile communications are supported.
WatchOS 5 is available not only for the fourth, but also for the third and second generation of Apple Watch. It contains many new features that will be useful for runners. The Workout app has added sliding pace (a measure of how long it took you to cover the last kilometer), average cadence, and automatic run detection.
Apple Services is a pretty good ecosystem for runners, but many still prefer specialized apps designed with athletic needs in mind. With Apple allowing third-party apps access to location data, the watch has become fully compatible with many popular platforms like Strava. The statistics are not the most voluminous - they are limited by the pace, the duration of the race, the distance and the heart rate. The heart rate monitor in the Apple Watch 4 is not medically accurate, but for the consumer class it is excellent: during high-intensity workouts, it lies no more often than Garmin and Suunto sports watches.
Fitbit Ionic: The Best Fitbit Watch for Running
Price: from 15,000 rubles
The Ionic is the only watch with built-in GPS. Like the Apple Watch, it offers a sufficient set of tools for fitness tracking at an amateur level. The main features are the measurement of pace, distance traveled, calories burned. There are not many additional parameters, so this gadget can only be recommended to those who run infrequently and for fun, and not for serious achievements.
Autonomy is decent - about 10 hours with active use with GPS and 4 days in standby mode.
Amazfit Stratos: budget running watch with GPS
Price: 10 990 rubles
Not too popular in the sports environment, the Amazfit brand, owned by the Chinese company Huami, largely copies Garmin. It turns out well.
Amazfit Stratos monitors running, elliptical, cycling, swimming, triathlon, climbing, trail running, tennis, football, and skiing skiing. There is support for GPS and GLONASS, synchronization with Strava, you can upload music and your own routes in GPX format to the gadget.
Amazfit has its own analysis system, FirstBeat, which offers similar advanced statistics to Garmin. It includes data on oxygen consumption. The optical heart rate sensor cannot boast of high accuracy, but this is compensated by the fact that Amazfit Stratos is able to work in conjunction with chest heart rate monitors.
It has a lot of functions, but you should not expect something of the Garmin level, although in general it is far from the worst gadget from the category of running watches.
Coros Apex: Budget GPS Running Watch #2
Price: 29 990 rubles
Coros specializes in smart bike helmets. The company's first foray into the sports watch market came in early 2018 with the announcement of the Coros Pace. Coros Apex soon followed.
Coros Apex is available in two sizes - 42 and 46 mm. In technical terms, there are no differences: both versions of the sports watch offer support for GPS and GLONASS, heart rate monitoring, AI load and rest mode analyzer. With geolocation enabled, autonomy is 25 hours for the 42mm model and 35 hours for the larger one.
The companion application is stable and highly informative. It is possible to send data to Strava and TrainingPeaks. If you can't afford the Garmin and Polar ranges, take a look at the Coros Apex. Although this watch has not won millions of fans, it is definitely worth attention.
IN Lately heart rate monitors have become quite popular devices on the market. Moreover, not only athletes show interest in them, but also ordinary people who decide to monitor their health or experience heart problems. If you have been interested in such devices for a long time, but could not decide on a model, thanks to our article you will know which one is right for you. In it you will find a rating of heart rate monitors from various price categories.
No. 10 - Beurer PM15
Price: 3 400 rubles
The Beurer PM15 is an inexpensive but good heart rate monitor. You will not find any exotic functions here, the device has a modest arsenal - a stopwatch, a clock, an alarm clock and a heart rate sensor.
However, the latter works quite accurately - the manufacturer notes that the error in the values is literally a few units. In addition to this, the owner of the model can finely control his heart rate by fine-tuning the upper and lower limits.
Unlike other representatives of the initial segment, the gadget holds well on the hand and is also not afraid of moisture. Therefore, drops of rain or sweat will not damage the heart rate monitor. The disadvantages include the low brightness of the display, due to which on a sunny day it starts to glare.
#9 - SIGMA iD.GO
Price: 2 850 rubles
SIGMA iD.GO is interesting in that it comes with an analog chest transmitter and a strap for it. Thus, if for any reason you don’t like the armband, you can wear it in a different way.
Which one is better is up to the user to decide. True, with a wrist mount, you won’t be able to use the watch, which is the main disadvantage.
The functionality of the model is modest, exactly the same as that of the previous contestant. Due to this, switching between modes is carried out with just one button. The device will be a good option for those who do not need extra bells and whistles in which you can get confused. With its direct task, it copes no worse than more expensive models.
No. 8 - Sanitas SPM25
Price: 3 600 rubles
Sanitas SPM25 has more interesting functionality. So, in addition to the usual measurement of heart rate, a popular model can calculate the average value of the indicators and indicate the maximum frequency.
In addition to this, there is a convenient function that allows the device to tune in to the time and intensity of the workout and, based on this, count the number of calories burned. This is complemented by a standard set in the face of a calendar, alarm clock, stopwatch and clock.
For a more accurate display of values by the heart rate monitor, the user will be able to adjust their personal parameters - gender, age, etc. The design of the solution is concise, and therefore you can wear it on your arm even with a business suit. Of the weaknesses, only the rather weak brightness of the screen can be distinguished.
No. 7 - DFC W117
Price: 2 990 rubles
DFC W117 is a profitable option in terms of price and quality. In their reviews, users especially note autonomy - on a pair of batteries, the device can work for about a year.
The functionality here is decent - you can calculate the maximum, average heart rate, set training zones, and also monitor calories. The screen has a backlight, and it is bright enough so the display will not glare in the sun.
The weak side of the model is the case - it is made of not the highest quality plastic. Thus, he can survive the ingress of moisture, but falling on the asphalt is unlikely. Despite this, the watch sits well on the wrist, and the strap can be adjusted if necessary.
#6 - SIGMA PC 15.11
Price: 3 500 rubles
SIGMA PC 15.11 is a model from a long-established manufacturer. He managed to equip the heart rate monitor with a fairly large screen, on which a lot of different numbers are placed, while, due to the fact that each value has its own font, it is impossible to get confused in them.
In order for the device to calculate the number of calories burned, you will have to enter your personal data.
As a power source, a CR2032 battery is used here, whose capabilities are enough for more than a dozen workouts. It is also pleasing that the case has water protection - you can even dive with a heart rate monitor to a depth of 30 meters. Of the minuses, we highlight not the most comfortable strap.
#5 - Polar H10 M-XXL
Price: 6 200 rubles
Polar H10 M-XXL is an advanced model and the first full chest heart rate monitor in our top. Its features include the ability to display data from the last workout and send data to a smartphone. Thus, during exercise you don't have to carry your mobile device in your pocket.
The manufacturer also took care of the design - the strap can be precisely adjusted and fixed in the desired position.
The sensor for measuring heart rate here is modified with signal protection, and therefore interference does not interfere with measurements. Of the minuses, we single out only the price - some users believe that it is too high.
#4 - Polar FT4
Price: 9 800 rubles
Polar FT4 is a product of a Finnish company that, although it looks simple, has impressive functionality.
The device can not only display the maximum and average value, but also save them to its memory in order to give the user the recommended limit value next time physical activity.
The variation of indicators over time is shown by a graphical figure. There is a display backlight and an audible signal that is triggered when the maximum indicator is exceeded. The body of the device is waterproof. In addition to this, there is a high accuracy of the displayed values, the presence of a GPS module, as well as reliable materials that allow us to talk about the durability of the device.
#3 - PUMA PU91129100
Price: 11,500 rubles
PUMA PU91129100 is equipped with a built-in heart rate sensor, due to which it is able to display the most accurate heart rate. All the functionality inherent in analogues is also here - the maximum and average heart rate, saving values in memory, screen backlighting, which allows you to use the device even under bright sunlight. The product was made in Germany, and therefore there is no doubt about the quality of the assembly - all components fit perfectly.
The strap of the heart rate monitor is comfortable, there were no cases of allergies among users, judging by the reviews. The case has moisture protection and can withstand immersion under water to a depth of 50 m. Among the shortcomings, only the price, due to the popularity of the brand.
No. 2 - Beurer PM90
Price: 6 600 rubles
The Beurer PM90 heart rate monitor is made in watch format and is complemented by an external heart rate sensor. It does not look very attractive - large dimensions affect. The manufacturer made such sacrifices in order to save money. However, the device is not intended for everyday wear, and therefore it is not so critical.
But in training, it works out every penny invested - in addition to measuring heart rate, the gadget is able to display the amount of fat and calories burned. Runners will appreciate the lap counting feature.
Such a heart rate monitor will also help in climbing some mountain. The fact is that there are a barometer and a heart rate monitor. They will warn you in time that too difficult conditions await you ahead. Based on them, the determination of the maximum volume of inhaled oxygen is also implemented here. And the gadget also included a thermometer, even if its measurements on the wrist cannot be called particularly accurate.
#1 - Polar V800HR
Price: 30,000 rubles
The Polar V800 HR is by far the best heart rate monitor of 2020 that no other model can compare to. This is a full-fledged smartwatch that can synchronize with Android and iOS smartphones to transfer training data, notify the user of incoming calls and messages, and is equipped with an LCD display with a bright backlight, which is enough for glare-free operation even on a sunny day.
In addition to its direct duty - measuring heart rate, the gadget can monitor sleep, calories, and warn about the lack of physical activity. Of the useful sensors, we highlight the accelerometer, gyroscope, thermometer and altimeter. Such an extensive arsenal allows the device to be relevant in any conditions.
Autonomy is provided by a 350 mAh battery. Due to it, you do not have to change batteries. Of the shortcomings, one can single out not only the price. So, according to user reviews, the device has problems with updates - some lead to a reset or failure of some functions.
Running watches with a heart rate monitor perform different functions: they act as a personal motivator for “sloths”, they help professionals control their daily performance, and for beginners they are a reason to finally start training. All these people will use different gadgets. But how do you choose a running heart rate monitor when there are as many options on the market as there are cups of water in the ocean? We'll figure out.
Let's cut the redundant: 6 main characteristics when choosing a watch
In order for a watch to be useful, you need to choose it not according to the rating of the newest or most stylish devices. The emphasis should be on needs. Ask yourself: is this gadget for a beginner who only needs to count mileage and heart rate, or for a professional when speed, navigation, and training modes are important? A beginner will unnecessarily overpay for an unnecessary set of functions, and it will not be enough for a master of his craft to simply control the pulse.
So, here is the algorithm that you should follow when choosing a sports watch for running.
- First, decide on the amount that you are ready to allocate for the purchase of the device. But keep in mind that the cheap option is more suitable for a beginner: it can show the result with an error.
- Indicate in what types of training the device will be used. It can be fitness, triathlon or amateur running in the morning.
- Determine how often the sessions will be held: every day or once a week. Consider the time of day: if you run in the evening, it would be better to choose a model with backlight.
- Indicate what is more important: the accuracy of measurements or the compactness of the device? Professionals are advised to pay attention to more bulky options with a chest sensor, and a wristband is also suitable for amateurs.
- For sports under any conditions, it is better to choose a moisture- and shock-resistant model.
- Battery life is also important, be sure to read this information, it will be a shame if the battery runs out before the end of the workout.
Additional features not to be ignored
We considered the main points, let's move on to additional chips that will also help you decide on the choice of a model for running:
- heart rate monitor;
- alerts;
- stopwatch;
- automatic pause;
- the ability to connect a headset;
Now in more detail about each. What is a heart rate monitor? This is a built-in device that counts the number of heartbeats in 1 minute. It is important to control the indicator, as it makes it clear how intense the training turned out to be. If the value is too high, then this will be a reason to “slow down” - reduce the load, in order to avoid negative consequences.
Studies were conducted at Stanford University, and this watch showed the smallest error in comparison with chest sensors. The smart model measures both distance, speed and pace of running.
The distinguishing features of the gadget are as follows:
- autonomy - 18 hours;
- they not only measure the pulse, but also work like a smart watch: they show notifications that come to the phone;
- there is GPS and Wi-Fi;
- protection against moisture up to 50 m;
- only compatible with iPhones.
Such a device costs $300-700, depending on the color design and model, there are several variations.
The best watch for triathlon
Running plays a key role in triathlete training, but triathletes need a device that is also suitable for swimming and cycling. Here the best choice would be Suunto Spartan Sport Wrist HR.
This watch is known for its multi-sport capability, so nothing better for a triathlon. They do not have a chest heart rate monitor, but this device can be purchased separately and connected via Bluetooth. Heart rate is counted in Suunto Spartan on a continuous basis, even while swimming and sleeping.
Among the features:
- GPS and GLONASS navigation systems;
- pedometer, heart rate monitor;
- moisture protection at a depth of up to 100 m;
- digital compass;
- 16 hours of operation without recharging.
The price of the device is $522.
The best watch for fitness
If a person is into fitness, and it is important for him to monitor his health, calories burned and mileage, you should try Withings Steel HR. There is a heart rate monitor and various counters to help in the classroom. The price of this watch is $200.
The gadget will not cause any inconvenience during training, the display is very compact, and the watch is stylish and comfortable to wear. Battery life is also a strong point of Withings Steel HR, as much as 25 days "in one go". In addition, suitable for, moisture protection allows you to immerse the gadget to a depth of 50 m.
If a person expects to lead healthy lifestyle life, give the body a little stress in different areas, it will suit Withings Steel HR - the winner in the ranking of fitness watches.
Great option for beginners
Sometimes a person does not have enough motivation to start running. Yes, in the evening a grandiose plan is being prepared, and in the morning I want to sleep longer, and again all efforts are down the drain. Polar M400 will help to add motivation and start.
Smart watch with heart rate monitor in 2017 is not uncommon, almost every smart watch manufacturer has taken care of the heart rate sensor in their device. This is not surprising, the function is really necessary, and sometimes even critical, especially for athletes and for people with heart disease. Athletes get a unique opportunity to adjust their training, adjusting to the appropriate heart rate zone, depending on the purpose of the training.
Such a huge range of smart watches with a heart rate monitor on the market makes the buyer get lost in the choice, for this, in order to ease the agony of choice, we made the TOP 7 smart sports watches with a heart rate sensor.
Herzband Elegance
Editor's rating: 
Average price - $70
Estimated life time: 5 days
Herzband is a brand that is steadily gaining popularity in the CIS, it has gained fame for its ability to measure pressure, or rather, calculate it based on the indications of the heart rate. These are the best for now.
Design. They have a classic design, the dial is round with a mechanical button on the right, the leather strap complements the classic surroundings.
Functionality and characteristics. The display is monochrome, with a fairly low margin of brightness. The controls are convenient, turn on the brush, but there is no voice control. Receive notifications from applications of all messengers. Track all physical activity like any other fitness tracker. They have a fairly low margin of brightness, in sunny weather it will be difficult to make out something.
Our testing showed that The watch's heart rate monitor is working properly.
Advantages:
- pressure measurement;
- stylish design
- low price
Flaws:
- low display brightness
- lack of GPS
Verdict: A good option for those who are looking for a budget smartwatch with a heart rate monitor that has a classic design and fitness tracker functionality.
Editor's rating:
Average price - $200
Estimated life time: 25 days
Design and interface.Withings Steel HR has a truly "Swiss" watch design, only a small OLED display that is designed to show all watch notifications gives them away. Due to the mechanical button, it switches between the Withings Steel HR screens, where you can see the pulse, steps and calories.
Functionality and characteristics. The main advantage of watches is their record life, which is 25 days active, an incredible result for modern smartwatches. To achieve this result, sacrifices had to be made, and this sacrifice was the display, which received a very small size. But it is worth noting that it copes with all its functions perfectly. Due to the bright backlight, all information is perfectly perceived even on a small display.
Another interesting feature is the high water resistance, which is 5 ATM. This allows the watch to be submerged to a depth of 50 meters. The watch is equipped with a soft silicone strap, which will allow you to dive with the watch in the pool and at sea.
The "brains" of the device are not too far behind the design and amaze with their functionality. So, they can independently determine what type of physical activity you are currently engaged in (paired with a connected smartphone), determine sleep phases, but without a smart alarm clock.
The operation of the heart rate monitor in hours quite accurate, but during intensive training, the data is distorted.
Advantages:
- record life time
- stylish design
- high degree of protection against water
Flaws:
- inconvenient control
- no GPS
- inconvenient charging
- heart rate monitor can't handle intense workouts
Verdict: A great option for a smart watch with a heart rate monitor and a pedometer for those who appreciate classic style and don't like to charge their gadgets.
Editor's rating:
Average price - $150
Estimated life time: 11 days
Xiaomi AmazFit Pace is the first smart watch from a famous Chinese brand, which went on sale quite recently, at the beginning of 2017. They have already gained a lot of fans around the world due to their stylish design and fitness tracker capabilities. In this review, we are interested in these features and in particular the operation of the heart rate monitor.
Functionality and characteristics. Xiaomi AmazFit is not just a smartwatch with a heart rate monitor, it's also a good one GPS-tracker capable of tracking your movements. This combination of functionality should be appreciated by outdoor joggers. It should be noted here that when GPS is turned on, the autonomy of work decreases from 5 days to one day, and in domestic use, the manufacturer promises to work up to 11 days, which is a very impressive figure with such a display.
Another interesting feature of the watch is the presence of memory - 4 GB, where you can store music that you can listen to using a wireless headset.
Among other things, the watch has the standard function of tracking sleep, steps, calories burned. There is no smart alarm clock, there is only a regular alarm clock from vibration. Operation of the heart rate monitor I was very pleased, a series of comparative tests with chest heart rate monitors did not reveal serious errors.
Design and interface. Xiaomi AmazFit Pace boasts a juicy display where you can easily view basic data, the brightness is automatically adjusted due to the built-in sensor. At the same time, the display has a number of control disadvantages. Firstly, the gadget does not support voice control, and secondly, to activate the display, you need to press a small mechanical button in the upper right corner.
Like any smart watch, Xiaomi AmazFit Pace can receive notifications from applications. Unfortunately, this area is not fully developed. So, the functions "Answer", "View dialogue" do not function. The interface is presented only in English or Chinese.
Advantages:
- availability of GPS
- quality display
- long life time
Flaws:
- inconvenient inclusion of the display
- underdeveloped notification software
- no Russian language support
Verdict: A great option for those who prefer a sporty design and do a lot of outdoor activities.
Average price - $375
Estimated life time: up to 4 days
Design and interface. The watch was released in two design versions, which are noticeably different, but at the same time quite similar. Samsung Gear S3 Frontier is a brutal version, similar to what we see on the covers of magazines with harsh models. The Samsung Gear S3 Classic is a timeless classic design, smaller than its larger sibling and not as impact and shock resistant, while the Frontier version is MIL-810G protected.
Of the main features and the main control feature of this watch is the “bezel”, this is a swivel ring around the watch, with the help of which gadgets are controlled. This solution turned out to be very successful and simplified the interaction with the device by an order of magnitude.
The watch uses a standard strap that can be easily detached and replaced with yours. The body is made of high quality 316L steel.
Display with a SUPER AMOLED matrix does not raise any complaints, all data is read without any problems in any light.
Functionality and characteristics. The watch runs on its own Tizen platform, which is noticeably more convenient than Android Wear. There are fewer applications here, but they are quite enough for everyday use.
Like any fitness tracker, the watch can track steps, calories, and sleep. Of the interesting features, one can single out the determination of the height of the ascent, as well as the ability to compete with friends in the number of steps. To experience all the fitness features of the watch, you need to use the S Health app, which is only available for Samsung's Galaxy series. Such exclusivity is a definite drawback of the gadget.
The watch has GPS and Glonass, which can remember the route of your movement. Separately, I would like to note that there is a version with LTE, which will allow you to call directly from the watch without a smartphone. A nice plus of the gadget is its long battery life, given the huge number of functions that require battery power.
The third generation of gears significantly improved heart rate measurements, which served as the watch's entry into our TOP. The heart rate monitor works correctly even during intensive movement.
Advantages:
- display
- availability of Wi-Fi and GPS
- convenient control
- MIL-810G protection in Frontier version
Flaws:
- branded fitness app only available for Samsung's Galaxy series
Verdict: Ideal for everyday use at work, in the gym, on vacation, if you also have a Samsung Galaxy series smartphone.
Average price - $350
Estimated life time: up to 2 days
Polar is the 2nd company from this TOP, which did not come from the world of technology, but from the world of sports watches. And this fact significantly influenced the Polar M600 in terms of functionality.
Design and interface. The design of the watch is sporty and futuristic, the case is made of plastic, there are metal inserts on the sides, and the strap is made of silicone. The design is very amateurish and not everyone will like it, plus the device has already turned out to be quite bulky.
The main control is due to the touch screen, there are also two mechanical buttons, on the left is the “Stop” or “Back” button, below the display there is a button responsible for starting the workout.
Display juicy and bright, but in direct sunlight there are difficulties in reading data.
Functionality and characteristics. The watch is made on the basis of Android Wear, which means that more than 4,000 applications for various purposes will be available for the owner. Fitness opportunities are realized through Google Fit and a special Polar Flow service, which records all the information about the training session, and you can schedule them in it. The service is very good and will appeal to many athletes.
Runners and cyclists will appreciate the presence of a full-fledged GPS. Another nice feature of the gadget is its water resistance and the ability to dive up to 10 meters, which is more than enough for the pool.
Due to the 6-LED sensor, the heart rate monitor can compete in accuracy with chest heart rate monitors. During testing, the heart rate monitor did not cause any complaints.
Of the unpleasant features, one can single out the short life of the gadget, only 8 hours in training mode and 2 days in normal mode with Android, but with IPhone only work for a day.
Advantages:
- availability of Wi-Fi and GPS
- branded sports software
Flaws:
- amateur design
- short period of life
Verdict: Good option for professional athletes who need the most functional smart watch.
Apple Watch Series 2
Average price - $400
Estimated life time: one day
It is not for nothing that watches from the legendary brand fall into the majority of reviews of smart watches and fitness trackers. Apple Watch Series 2, as a watch with a heart rate monitor, they also did not disappoint.
Design and interface. The design is quite futuristic and not everyone will like it, at the same time, many will find it very attractive. It is presented in the form of a rectangle with rounded corners. There are two control buttons on the right side. The number of varieties of straps is striking in variety, the case itself is presented from the options of the main material aluminum, steel, ceramics. The updated version has got quick access to the necessary applications through the button, from this the management has become quite convenient.
Display juicy and bright, all data is read without any problems in any weather. There is an automatic brightness sensor, the operation of which can be adjusted in the settings.
Functionality and characteristics. Apple Watch Series 2 is a real multi-functional machine among smartwatches, which can do almost everything that modern smartwatches can provide. Functions in brief:
- Ability to answer calls and receive messages;
- Tracking the physical activity of the wearer;
- Support for many additional applications from the App Store;
- Measurement of calories burned, steps taken, heart rate
- GPS route recording
- Internet access via Wi-Fi
The watch boasts not only the usual Bluetooth, GPS modules, but also a Wi-Fi module that will allow you to access the Internet directly from the gadget. The gadget is waterproof, it can be used in the pool, even a separate functionality that tracks strokes has been created for this.
All the ideality of watches is killed by their lifetime, which is one day, which is an anti-record of this top, and it’s hard to find smart watches in 2017 who live so little.
The app for measuring heart rate is very primitive and is suitable only for lovers of an active lifestyle, but not for professionals. But it is worth noting that the The heart rate monitor works flawlessly. Moreover, an independent scientific study conducted at Stanford showed an error of a heart rate monitor on an exercise bike of only 2%, which is comparable to the data of an electrocardiogram, for walking the indicator turned out to be slightly higher than 2.5%.
Advantages:
- wide range of applications
- presence of GPS and Wi-Fi module
- juicy display
Flaws:
- very short lifespan
- high price
Verdict: A great option for those Iphone owners who need the widest possible range of features from smartwatches.
Estimated life: 9 days in watch mode, 11 hours in GPS training mode
The ForeRunner series of watches is designed for running, as the name of the same name clearly testifies. The Garmin ForeRunner 235 is one of the best value for money running heart rate sports watches on the market. This model is suitable for both professionals and runners who need much more than the functionality of a regular fitness tracker, but at the same time they need a watch for everyday use.
Design and interface. The design of the ForeRunner 235 is made in a sporty style and they will not fit with a formal suit to emphasize the status of the wearer. But they will perfectly fit into any other wardrobe and not only in sports.
Display big and bright enough, all notifications and data are read without any problems, even in the sunniest weather. Management is carried out by 5 mechanical buttons, which is quite convenient in rainy weather. The entire interface is intuitive and doesn't take long to figure out. Russian language is supported.
Functionality and characteristics. The watch is equipped with GPS and the GLONASS system, which made it possible to introduce a wide range of possibilities, so in addition to the classic data on steps, calories and sleep, it offers a number of other options. While running, they can show an estimated finish time based on their current momentum. Evaluate the training effect of the lesson. Will predict your best result based on the data already obtained. Advise on post-workout rest. Support cycling.
Also, many will find it useful to estimate VO2 max to assess the effectiveness of the training process in athletics.
Additional features include smart notifications and music control on your smartphone. It is also the only smartwatch with a heart rate monitor suitable for this review.
Operation of the heart rate monitor does not cause complaints even with intensive training. It is possible to track heart rate zones.
Advantages:
- Availability of GPS/Glonass
- Windows phone support
- advanced features for running training
Flaws:
- not suitable for a formal suit
- lack of app store and internal memory
Verdict: An excellent option for those who are engaged in professional running training.
