Top rated GPS smartwatches and fitness trackers of the year 2025
In the realm of fitness and outdoor activities, having a reliable GPS smartwatch is essential. Here, we highlight some of the best devices that offer multi-system GNSS, multi-band GPS, all-systems GNSS, and dual-frequency GPS for accurate tracking in challenging environments.
Garmin Fenix 8 Pro
The Garmin Fenix 8 Pro, renowned for its rugged design and advanced navigation features, stands out with its All Satellite Mode that utilises multiple GNSS systems simultaneously to improve accuracy, particularly in dense urban or forested areas. This watch supports dual-frequency GPS and multiple satellite systems such as GPS, GLONASS, Galileo, QZSS, and Beidou, providing reliable tracking even in challenging environments [2][3].
Garmin Forerunner 970
Another excellent choice for athletes is the Garmin Forerunner 970, which offers multi-system GNSS and advanced GPS accuracy features tailored for serious runners [1].
Samsung Galaxy Watch Ultra
The Samsung Galaxy Watch Ultra is highlighted as the best overall smartwatch for 2025, combining strong GPS capabilities with smart features and robust battery life, supporting multi-band and multi-system GNSS [1].
COROS APEX 2 Pro
The COROS APEX 2 Pro, with its redesigned GPS antenna, offers enhanced multi-system GNSS performance and navigation, making it a solid option for outdoor athletes seeking multi-band and dual-frequency GPS accuracy in the wilderness [4].
These watches integrate various GNSS satellite systems and dual-frequency GPS technologies, improving positioning precision and signal reliability where satellite visibility is limited, such as dense forests, urban canyons, or mountainous terrain. The multi-system approach allows the watch to connect to more satellites at once, increasing accuracy and reducing signal dropout compared to single-system GPS trackers.
Other Notable Mentions
While not offering all-systems GNSS or dual-frequency GPS, the Forerunner 265 is the most accurate GPS smartwatch, supporting All-Systems GNSS [1]. The Garmin Instinct 2X Solar can maintain multi-band GPS tracking for up to 36 hours with its extra-large battery, energy-efficient display, and built-in solar charging [5].
For those seeking a more affordable option, the COROS PACE 3 offers 15 hours of dual-frequency GPS or 25 hours in "all-systems" mode, at a cost of $230 [6].
Most fitness trackers rely on connected GPS, meaning a phone is required for tracking workouts. However, most phones have precise location data on par with GPS-only smartwatches. The Xiaomi Smart Band 9, for instance, features high-precision sensors for workout and health monitoring [7].
In summary, for the most accurate tracking in challenging environments using all-systems GNSS and dual-frequency GPS, top options are:
- Garmin Fenix 8 Pro (multi-band GPS, All Satellite Mode)[2][3]
- Garmin Forerunner 970[1]
- Samsung Galaxy Watch Ultra[1]
- COROS APEX 2 Pro with enhanced GPS antenna for multi-band[4]
These models represent the leading edge in GPS smartwatch technology as of 2025.
[1] - TechRadar [2] - Garmin [3] - DC Rainmaker [4] - COROS [5] - Garmin [6] - COROS [7] - Xiaomi
The Garmin Fenix 8 Pro and Samsung Galaxy Watch Ultra are highlights among wearables, leveraging multi-band and multi-system GNSS, along with dual-frequency GPS, for superior tracking in challenging environments. Meanwhile, the COROS APEX 2 Pro emphasizes its redesigned GPS antenna for enhanced multi-system GNSS performance, catering to outdoor athletes. Moreover, smartphones, such as the Xiaomi Smart Band 9, can also serve as reliable GPS trackers for fitness activities, offering high-precision sensors for monitoring workouts.
