
As a dedicated runner, finding the perfect training partner to help you reach your goals can make all the difference.
A GPS running watch can be that indispensable companion, providing invaluable insights into your training progress.
In this article, we'll introduce you to the top GPS running watches for 2023.

---

<Image
  src="/blog/2023-running-watches/fr965.webp"
  alt=""
  width="240"
  height="240"
  layout="fixed"
/>

## Garmin Forerunner 965

The Garmin Forerunner 965 is a cutting-edge GPS running watch designed for professional and amateur runners and triathletes alike. Offering advanced features, improved battery life, and seamless connectivity, the Forerunner 965 is set to revolutionize the way athletes train and track their progress. With its comprehensive suite of training metrics and multisport capabilities, it's a worthy investment for anyone looking to elevate their performance and push their limits.

---

<Image
  src="/blog/2023-running-watches/fr955.webp"
  alt=""
  width="240"
  height="240"
  layout="fixed"
/>

## Garmin Forerunner 955

The Garmin Forerunner 955 is a top-tier GPS running watch tailored for serious athletes and outdoor enthusiasts. With advanced training metrics, comprehensive navigation features, and an impressive battery life, it is the go-to choice for those seeking in-depth data analysis and reliable guidance during workouts and races.

---

<Image
  src="/blog/2023-running-watches/fr265.webp"
  alt=""
  width="240"
  height="240"
  layout="fixed"
/>

## Garmin Forerunner 265

The Forerunner 265 is an upgrade from the 255, offering additional features such as advanced sleep tracking, stress monitoring, and improved training analysis. This mid-range GPS watch is ideal for runners seeking a balance between affordability and functionality, helping them optimize their training and recovery.

---

<Image
  src="/blog/2023-running-watches/fr255.webp"
  alt=""
  width="240"
  height="240"
  layout="fixed"
/>

## Garmin Forerunner 255

The Forerunner 255 is a solid entry-level GPS running watch, perfect for beginners looking to track their progress and improve their performance. With essential features like GPS tracking, heart rate monitoring, and basic training metrics, the 255 offers great value for those just starting their running journey.

---

<Image
  src="/blog/2023-running-watches/fenix7.webp"
  alt=""
  width="240"
  height="240"
  layout="fixed"
/>

## Garmin Fenix 7x

The Garmin Fenix 7 is a rugged multisport GPS watch designed for athletes who demand top performance and durability. With an array of advanced features, including running power metrics, full-color mapping, and extended battery life, the Fenix 7 is perfect for outdoor adventurers and endurance athletes seeking a reliable training companion.

---

<Image
  src="/blog/2023-running-watches/epix2.webp"
  alt=""
  width="240"
  height="240"
  layout="fixed"
/>

## Garmin Epix 2

The Garmin Epix 2 is a high-end adventure watch with a stunning AMOLED touchscreen display. It offers comprehensive navigation tools, extensive sport profiles, and advanced training metrics, making it an excellent choice for outdoor enthusiasts and athletes looking for a cutting-edge wearable to elevate their training experience.

---

<Image
  src="/blog/2023-running-watches/apex2.png"
  alt=""
  width="240"
  height="240"
  layout="fixed"
/>

## Coros Apex 2

The Coros Apex 2 is a sleek and reliable GPS watch designed for runners and multisport athletes. With a focus on battery efficiency and accurate data tracking, the Apex 2 offers essential training metrics, navigation capabilities, and a comfortable design, making it a great option for everyday training and competition.

---

<Image
  src="/blog/2023-running-watches/apex2pro.png"
  alt=""
  width="240"
  height="240"
  layout="fixed"
/>

## Coros Apex Pro 2

The Coros Apex Pro 2 builds upon the success of the Apex 2, featuring a more rugged design, improved battery life, and advanced training analysis. This GPS watch is perfect for trail runners and ultra-endurance athletes seeking a durable, high-performance wearable to support their ambitious goals.

---

<Image
  src="/blog/2023-running-watches/peakpro.jpeg"
  alt=""
  width="240"
  height="240"
  layout="fixed"
/>

## Suunto 9 Peak Pro

The Suunto 9 Peak Pro is a premium GPS watch designed for endurance athletes and outdoor enthusiasts. With its impressive battery life, accurate GPS tracking, and advanced training metrics, the 9 Peak Pro is a reliable companion for those pushing their limits in extreme environments and challenging races.

---

<Image
  src="/blog/2023-running-watches/gritxpro.png"
  alt=""
  width="240"
  height="240"
  layout="fixed"
/>

## Polar Grit X Pro

The Polar Grit X Pro is a rugged multisport GPS watch that excels in outdoor environments. With its advanced training and recovery features, robust navigation capabilities, and durable design, the Grit X Pro is an ideal choice for athletes seeking a dependable wearable to help them conquer new challenges.

---

## Polar Pace Pro

<Image
  src="/blog/2023-running-watches/pacerpro.webp"
  alt=""
  width="240"
  height="240"
  layout="fixed"
/>

The Polar Pace Pro is a versatile running watch designed for athletes who value accurate data and actionable insights. With advanced features such as running power metrics, training load analysis, and heart rate monitoring, the Pace Pro offers the tools necessary to optimize performance and reach new milestones.

---

## Comparison table

<Table>
  <thead>
    <tr>
      <th>-</th>
      <th>Garmin FR 965</th>
      <th>Garmin FR 955</th>
      <th>Garmin FR 265</th>
      <th>Garmin FR 255</th>
      <th>Garmin Fenix 7X</th>
      <th>Garmin Epix 2</th>
      <th>Coros Apex 2</th>
      <th>Coros Apex Pro 2</th>
      <th>Suunto 9 Peak Pro</th>
      <th>Polar Grit X Pro</th>
      <th>Polar Pacer Pro</th>
    </tr>
  </thead>
  <tbody>
    <tr>
      <td>Price</td>
      <td>600$ / 650E</td>
      <td>500% / 550E</td>
      <td>450$ / 500E</td>
      <td>350$ / 350E</td>
      <td>900$</td>
      <td>900$</td>
      <td>400$</td>
      <td>550$</td>
      <td>550$ / 500E</td>
      <td>530$ / 530E</td>
      <td> 330$ / 330E</td>
    </tr>
    <tr>
      <td>Release Date</td>
      <td>March 2023</td>
      <td>April 2022</td>
      <td>March 2023</td>
      <td>June 2022</td>
      <td>Jan 2022</td>
      <td>Jan 2022</td>
      <td>Nov 2022</td>
      <td>Nov 2022</td>
      <td>Oct 2022</td>
      <td>Oct 2021</td>
      <td></td>
    </tr>
    <tr>
      <td>Map</td>
      <td>yes</td>
      <td>yes</td>
      <td>Breadcrumb style</td>
      <td>Breadcrumb</td>
      <td>yes</td>
      <td>Yes</td>
      <td>Breadcrumb</td>
      <td>Yes</td>
      <td>Breadcrumb</td>
      <td>Breadcrumb</td>
      <td>Breadcrumb</td>
    </tr>
    <tr>
      <td>Satelite</td>
      <td>MULTI-FREQUENCY POSITIONING</td>
      <td>MULTI-FREQUENCY POSITIONING</td>
      <td>MULTI-FREQUENCY POSITIONING</td>
      <td>Multi-Band only</td>
      <td>MULTI-FREQUENCY POSITIONING</td>
      <td>MULTI-FREQUENCY POSITIONING</td>
      <td>Multi-Band only</td>
      <td>MULTI-FREQUENCY POSITIONING</td>
      <td>Multi-Band only</td>
      <td>Multi-Band only</td>
      <td>Multi-Band only</td>
    </tr>
    <tr>
      <td>Battery in days</td>
      <td>23</td>
      <td>15</td>
      <td>13</td>
      <td>14</td>
      <td>28 </td>
      <td>16</td>
      <td>17</td>
      <td>30</td>
      <td>21</td>
      <td>7</td>
      <td>6</td>
    </tr>
    <tr>
      <td>Battery in GPS in hours</td>
      <td>31</td>
      <td>42</td>
      <td>20</td>
      <td>30</td>
      <td>90</td>
      <td>42</td>
      <td>45</td>
      <td>75</td>
      <td>40</td>
      <td>40</td>
      <td>35</td>
    </tr>
    <tr>
      <td>Screen type, resolution and diameter</td>
      <td>AMOLED 454X454 1.4”</td>
      <td>MIP 260x260 1.3”</td>
      <td>AMOLED 416x416 1.3”</td>
      <td>MIP 260x260 1.3”</td>
      <td>MIP 280x280 1.4”</td>
      <td>AMOLED 416x416 1.3”</td>
      <td>MIP 240x240 1.2”</td>
      <td>MIP 260x260 1.3”</td>
      <td>MIP 240x240 1.3”</td>
      <td>MIP 240x240 1.2”</td>
      <td>MIP 240x240 1.2”</td>
    </tr>
    <tr>
      <td>Music</td>
      <td>mp3, spotify, Deezer, Amazon music</td>
      <td>mp3, spotify, Deezer, Amazon music</td>
      <td>mp3, spotify, Deezer, Amazon music</td>
      <td>Optional mp3, spotify, Deezer, Amazon music</td>
      <td>mp3, spotify, Deezer, Amazon music</td>
      <td>mp3, spotify, Deezer, Amazon music</td>
      <td>mp3</td>
      <td>mp3</td>
      <td>No</td>
      <td>No</td>
      <td>No</td>
    </tr>
    <tr>
      <td>Weight in grams</td>
      <td>53</td>
      <td>52</td>
      <td>47</td>
      <td>49</td>
      <td>96</td>
      <td>76</td>
      <td>53</td>
      <td>66</td>
      <td>64</td>
      <td>79</td>
      <td>41</td>
    </tr>
    <tr>
      <td>Size in mm</td>
      <td>47.2 x 47.2 x 13.2</td>
      <td>46.5 x 46.5 x 14.4</td>
      <td>46.1 x 46.1 x 12.9</td>
      <td>45.6 x 45.6 x 12.9</td>
      <td>51 x 51 x 14.9</td>
      <td>47 x 47 x 14.5</td>
      <td>43.0 x 42.8 x 12.8</td>
      <td>46.1 x 46.5 x 14</td>
      <td>43 x 43 x 10.8</td>
      <td>47 x 47 x 13</td>
      <td>45 x 45 x 11.5</td>
    </tr>
  </tbody>
</Table>



Stryd and Coros Pod 2 are two pods that track a variety of running metrics, including pace, distance, and cadence.
Both devices are designed in a way that helps runners improve their performance and monitor their progress.
On top of that the devices also provide more accurate pace and distance since normally GPS can have a lag and using a running pod can eliminate that delay.

Coros POD2 can be used only with Coros watches, while Stryd can be used with pretty much all popular brands including Coros or even without watch ( smartphone ).

In the table bellow you can see what are the metrics you can collect with having watch and a watch + pod:

<Table>
  <thead>
    <tr>
      <th>Metric</th>
      <th>Coros ⌚︎ Only</th>
      <th>Garmin ⌚︎ Only</th>
      <th>Coros ⌚︎ + POD2</th>
      <th>Garmin ⌚︎ + Stryd</th>
    </tr>
  </thead>
  <tbody>
    <tr>
      <th>Distance</th>
      <td>✅</td>
      <td>✅</td>
      <td>✅</td>
      <td>✅</td>
    </tr>
    <tr>
      <th>Pace</th>
      <td>✅</td>
      <td>✅</td>
      <td>✅</td>
      <td>✅</td>
    </tr>
    <tr>
      <th>Effort pace</th>
      <td>✅</td>
      <td>⛔️</td>
      <td>✅</td>
      <td>⛔️</td>
    </tr>
    <tr>
      <th>Power</th>
      <td>✅</td>
      <td>✅</td>
      <td>⛔️</td>
      <td>✅</td>
    </tr>
    <tr>
      <th>Cadence</th>
      <td>✅</td>
      <td>✅</td>
      <td>✅</td>
      <td>✅</td>
    </tr>
    <tr>
      <th>Stride length</th>
      <td>✅</td>
      <td>⛔️</td>
      <td>✅</td>
      <td>✅</td>
    </tr>
    <tr>
      <th>Stride height</th>
      <td>✅</td>
      <td>✅</td>
      <td>✅</td>
      <td>⛔️</td>
    </tr>
    <tr>
      <th>Stride ratio</th>
      <td>✅</td>
      <td>⛔️</td>
      <td>✅</td>
      <td>⛔️</td>
    </tr>
    <tr>
      <th>Ground contact time</th>
      <td>✅</td>
      <td>✅</td>
      <td>✅</td>
      <td>✅</td>
    </tr>
    <tr>
      <th>Leg Spring Stiffness</th>
      <td>⛔️</td>
      <td>⛔️</td>
      <td>⛔️</td>
      <td>✅</td>
    </tr>
    <tr>
      <th>Vertical Oscillation</th>
      <td>⛔️</td>
      <td>⛔️</td>
      <td>⛔️</td>
      <td>✅</td>
    </tr>
    <tr>
      <th>Temperature</th>
      <td>✅</td>
      <td>✅</td>
      <td>✅</td>
      <td>✅</td>
    </tr>
    <tr>
      <th>Elevation gain</th>
      <td>✅</td>
      <td>✅</td>
      <td>✅</td>
      <td>✅</td>
    </tr>
    <tr>
      <th>L/R balance</th>
      <td>✅</td>
      <td>⛔️</td>
      <td>✅</td>
      <td>⛔️</td>
    </tr>
    <tr>
      <th>Air power / resistance</th>
      <td>⛔️</td>
      <td>⛔️</td>
      <td>⛔️</td>
      <td>✅</td>
    </tr>
    <tr>
      <th>Price</th>
      <td>-</td>
      <td>-</td>
      <td>99$</td>
      <td>269$</td>
    </tr>
  </tbody>
</Table>

As you can see the main difference is Stryd measures running power while coros pod
2 is using effort pace, a new metric invented by Coros which tries to simplify pace
while taking into account many other factors like grade.<br />
The other difference wich I really like is the Stryds ability to detect head-wind and see how much of your energe is wasted to overcome it.

So which device is better for you?<br />
That depends on your watch: if you have a Coros one, Coros Pod 2 is a cheaper option, otherwise, Stryd is much better from a compatibility point of view and can be used even when you change your watch ( or without one ).



I've been using Garmin Fenix 7 together with Google Pixel Watch for over a week,
In this post just want to share the data prodiced by both devices for that period.

As you can see from the charts bellow, there are a few aspects in which the devices align very well, and another in they totaly disagree.

## Running

<iframe
  title="Running distance"
  width="100%"
  height="400"
  seamless
  frameborder="0"
  scrolling="yes"
  loading="lazy"
  src="https://docs.google.com/spreadsheets/d/e/2PACX-1vQMItLlgJDQRjQZpNqqq5nXQDpv8xlRrQklmFVa9lncq4y_BGD_1UrLcEqDxewnYeDPO8gwwXzlK_8f/pubchart?oid=632925942&amp;format=interactive"
></iframe>

<iframe
  title="Running HR"
  width="100%"
  height="400"
  seamless
  frameborder="0"
  scrolling="yes"
  loading="lazy"
  src="https://docs.google.com/spreadsheets/d/e/2PACX-1vQMItLlgJDQRjQZpNqqq5nXQDpv8xlRrQklmFVa9lncq4y_BGD_1UrLcEqDxewnYeDPO8gwwXzlK_8f/pubchart?oid=1493366342&amp;format=interactive"
></iframe>

## Sleep

<iframe
  width="100%"
  height="400"
  seamless
  frameborder="0"
  scrolling="yes"
  loading="lazy"
  src="https://docs.google.com/spreadsheets/d/e/2PACX-1vQMItLlgJDQRjQZpNqqq5nXQDpv8xlRrQklmFVa9lncq4y_BGD_1UrLcEqDxewnYeDPO8gwwXzlK_8f/pubchart?oid=392513393&amp;format=interactive"
></iframe>

<iframe
  width="100%"
  height="400"
  seamless
  frameborder="0"
  scrolling="yes"
  loading="lazy"
  src="https://docs.google.com/spreadsheets/d/e/2PACX-1vQMItLlgJDQRjQZpNqqq5nXQDpv8xlRrQklmFVa9lncq4y_BGD_1UrLcEqDxewnYeDPO8gwwXzlK_8f/pubchart?oid=1118907552&amp;format=interactive"
></iframe>

## Overnight

<iframe
  title="HRV"
  width="100%"
  height="400"
  seamless
  frameborder="0"
  scrolling="yes"
  loading="lazy"
  src="https://docs.google.com/spreadsheets/d/e/2PACX-1vQMItLlgJDQRjQZpNqqq5nXQDpv8xlRrQklmFVa9lncq4y_BGD_1UrLcEqDxewnYeDPO8gwwXzlK_8f/pubchart?oid=1616135616&amp;format=interactive"
></iframe>

<iframe
  title="HR"
  width="100%"
  height="400"
  seamless
  frameborder="0"
  scrolling="yes"
  loading="lazy"
  src="https://docs.google.com/spreadsheets/d/e/2PACX-1vQMItLlgJDQRjQZpNqqq5nXQDpv8xlRrQklmFVa9lncq4y_BGD_1UrLcEqDxewnYeDPO8gwwXzlK_8f/pubchart?oid=759945454&amp;format=interactive"
></iframe>

<iframe
  title="Breathing"
  width="100%"
  height="400"
  seamless
  frameborder="0"
  scrolling="yes"
  loading="lazy"
  src="https://docs.google.com/spreadsheets/d/e/2PACX-1vQMItLlgJDQRjQZpNqqq5nXQDpv8xlRrQklmFVa9lncq4y_BGD_1UrLcEqDxewnYeDPO8gwwXzlK_8f/pubchart?oid=1892207352&amp;format=interactive"
></iframe>

## Daily

<iframe
  title="Steps"
  width="100%"
  height="400"
  seamless
  frameborder="0"
  scrolling="yes"
  loading="lazy"
  src="https://docs.google.com/spreadsheets/d/e/2PACX-1vQMItLlgJDQRjQZpNqqq5nXQDpv8xlRrQklmFVa9lncq4y_BGD_1UrLcEqDxewnYeDPO8gwwXzlK_8f/pubchart?oid=1113203205&amp;format=interactive"
></iframe>

<iframe
  title="floors"
  width="100%"
  height="400"
  seamless
  frameborder="0"
  scrolling="yes"
  loading="lazy"
  src="https://docs.google.com/spreadsheets/d/e/2PACX-1vQMItLlgJDQRjQZpNqqq5nXQDpv8xlRrQklmFVa9lncq4y_BGD_1UrLcEqDxewnYeDPO8gwwXzlK_8f/pubchart?oid=1940150558&amp;format=interactive"
></iframe>

<iframe
  title="calories"
  width="100%"
  height="400"
  seamless
  frameborder="0"
  scrolling="yes"
  loading="lazy"
  src="https://docs.google.com/spreadsheets/d/e/2PACX-1vQMItLlgJDQRjQZpNqqq5nXQDpv8xlRrQklmFVa9lncq4y_BGD_1UrLcEqDxewnYeDPO8gwwXzlK_8f/pubchart?oid=1773705131&amp;format=interactive"
></iframe>


My favourite books about running

1. Endure: Mind, Body, and the Curiously Elastic Limits of Human Performance

2. Eat and Run: My Unlikely Journey to Ultramarathon Greatness

3. North: Finding My Way While Running the Appalachian Trail

4. Born to Run: A Hidden Tribe, Superathletes, and the Greatest Race the World Has Never Seen

5. What I talk when I talk about running

6. Finding Ultra, Revised and Updated Edition: Rejecting Middle Age, Becoming One of the World's Fittest Men, and Discovering Myself

7. Running Man: A Memoir

8. Above the Clouds: How I Carved My Own Path to the Top of the World

9. How Bad Do You Want It?: Mastering the Psychology of Mind over Muscle

10. Can't Hurt Me: Master Your Mind and Defy the Odds

Other posts

Discover Your Perfect Training Partner: The Best GPS Running Watches for 2023

Stryd vs Coros Pod 2 comparison

Garmin Fenix 7 vs Pixel Watch Fitbit data comparison