8 Best GPS Watches with Map Display + Buyers Guide (2024)

Last Updated: Jan 5, 2024

When it comes to staying on the right path and ensuring you’re heading in the right direction, a GPS watch with map display can be invaluable. Whether you’re hiking, running, or cycling, having a visual representation of your surroundings can help you make smarter decisions and stay safe.

However, with a wide variety of options on the market, finding the right GPS watch with a map display can take time and effort.

In this Buyers Guide, we’ve researched and compiled a list of the eight best GPS watches with map display. We’ve covered everything from rugged outdoor watches to sleek, tech-savvy options.

In a rush? Here is a quick preview of the six best GPS watches with map display:

Best GPS Watches with Maps

Product Name	Review	Amazon Price	Amazon Rating
Garmin fēnix 7	Jump to Review	$779.99 Buy Now	4.7 stars (1876 ratings)
Garmin Forerunner 955	Jump to Review	$499.98 Buy Now	4.6 stars (1013 ratings)
Garmin quatix 7X Solar Edition	Jump to Review	$1099.99 Buy Now	4.9 stars (31 ratings)
Polar Grit X	Jump to Review	$400.46 Buy Now	4.4 stars (1232 ratings)
SUUNTO 9 Peak	Jump to Review	$289.00 Buy Now	4.3 stars (389 ratings)
Garmin Enduro	Jump to Review	$979.99 Buy Now	4.4 stars (82 ratings)
MARQ Adventurer (Gen 2)	Jump to Review	$2100.00 Buy Now
Garmin Epix (Gen 2)	Jump to Review	$699.99 Buy Now	4.5 stars (270 ratings)

Why Should You Trust Us?

At Trakkit, we understand the importance of reliable and accurate GPS technology. As industry leaders in GPS tracking, we aim to provide expert advice and trustworthy recommendations.

Our seasoned experts have carefully evaluated and tested each GPS watch on this list, ensuring you have access to the most reliable and accurate information.

We know buying a GPS watch is an investment, and our goal is to give you the tools and knowledge to make an informed decision. If you’re a cycling enthusiast, don’t miss our insights on bike GPS computers with maps.

When you turn to Trakkit, you can trust that you are receiving information from professionals with years of experience in the GPS industry.

8 Best GPS Watches with Map Display in 2024

Garmin fenix 7 – Best GPS Watch with Map Display

Screen Size: 1.3 inches
Touch Screen: Yes
Lens Material: Power Sapphire
Bezel Material: Titanium
Strap Material: Silicone
Weight: 73 g

See on Amazon

Details & First Impressions:

The Garmin fenix 7 is a robust and rugged outdoor GPS watch that comes with a range of impressive features. It has a 1.3-inch touchscreen, a Black DLC Titanium bezel, and a silicone strap for extra durability.

The newest Garmin fenix also boasts solar charging capabilities, so you can go longer without running out of juice. Plus, it offers real-time stamina tracking, training status, and advanced performance metrics. The 30+ built-in apps for enhanced functionality made this GPS watch stand out from the rest.

We were impressed with the ease of navigating the menu on this watch – from swiping through screens to customizing settings – everything felt intuitive and natural. The battery life was great, too; 22 days with solar charging gave us plenty of time outdoors before needing a recharge!

We also liked the health and wellness features such as wrist-based heart rate monitoring, Pulse Ox (not available in all countries), stress tracking, and sleep tracking, which made it easier to keep tabs on my health while adventuring outside.

Finally, we appreciated its higher positioning accuracy thanks to GNSS network support (GPS, GLONASS & Galileo). These features make it one of the best GPS watches with a map display on the market!

Pros

• 1.3-inch touchscreen display
• 30+ built-in apps for enhanced functionality
• Solar charging capabilities
• Real-time stamina tracking
• Heart rate monitoring
• High level of positioning accuracy

Cons

• Some features are not available in every country

Performance & Overall Experience:

The Garmin fenix 7 was a powerful and reliable GPS watch with a great map display. The 1.3-inch touchscreen made it easy to navigate the menu, and the 30+ built-in apps gave us plenty of options for enhanced functionality. Its solar charging capabilities impressed us, which gave us 22 days of battery life in GPS mode without recharging.

The Pulse Ox feature was handy for monitoring our health and well-being during outdoor activities. In addition, the GNSS network made turn-by-turn navigation easy to work with even with the different maps we loaded.

All these things combined make this one of the best GPS watches with map display on the market; we highly recommend it for any outdoor enthusiast looking for an accurate and reliable GPS watch!

Tested Features:

• 1.3-inch touchscreen display
• 30+ built-in apps for enhanced
• Solar charging capabilities
• Real stamina tracking
• Positioning accuracy
• Pulse Ox feature

Garmin Forerunner 955 – Best GPS Watch for Running

Screen Size: 1.3 Inches
Lens Material: Corning® Gorilla® Glass DX
Bezel Material: Fiber-Reinforced Polymer
Touchscreen: Yes
Weight: 53 g

See on Amazon

Details & First Impressions:

The Garmin Forerunner 955 is a sleek and powerful GPS running watch that offers all the features you need for peak performance. Corning® Gorilla® Glass DX protects the 1.3-inch touchscreen display, while the bezel is reinforced polymer for extra durability.

This watch also boasts a long-lasting battery life performing well into 15 days on one charge. Plus, there’s access to multiple global navigation satellite systems to ensure accurate map displays even in remote locations. We were impressed by the training readiness score, which helps you see if it’s better to go hard or take it easy.

We liked the fitness-tracking capabilities of this watch as well. It monitors your heart rate, stress levels, and sleep quality to understand your overall wellness better. 

Finally, we were pleased that this watch is water resistant up to 100 meters, so that you can bring it on any water-based adventure!

Pros

• 1.3-inch touchscreen display
• Corning® Gorilla® Glass DX for added protection
• Long-lasting battery life
• Training readiness score feature
• Fitness tracking capabilities
• Waterproof up to 100 meters

Cons

• The strap was irritating the skin on my wrist

Performance & Overall Experience: 

The Garmin Forerunner 955 performed very well during our testing. The 1.3-inch touchscreen was easy to navigate and read even in direct sunlight. The Corning® Gorilla® Glass DX offered added protection from accidental bumps or drops. We were also pleased with the long-lasting battery life of up to 15 days in GPS mode, and access to multiple global navigation satellite systems for accurate GPS map displays no matter where we were.

The training readiness score was a great feature that allowed us to determine whether it was a good day to go hard or a perfect day to take it easy based on our sleep quality, recovery, and training metrics. Additionally, the fitness tracking capabilities gave us a better understand of our overall wellness by monitoring heart rate, stress levels, and sleep quality.

Overall, we were extremely impressed with the Garmin Forerunner 955. We highly recommend it to anyone looking for an advanced GPS running watch explicitly tailored for triathletes.

Tested Features:

• 1.3-inch touchscreen display
• Battery life
• Training readiness score feature
• Fitness tracking capabilities
• Waterproofness

Garmin quatix 7X Solar Edition – Best Solar GPS Watch for Boating

Screen Size: 1.4″
Touch Screen: Yes
Lens Material: Power Glass
Bezel Material: Fiber-reinforced polymer
Strap Material: Silicone and titanium
Weight: 89 g

See on Amazon

Details & First Impressions:

Garmin’s quatix 7X Solar Edition is a powerful GPS smartwatch for boaters and outdoor marine adventurers. This durable watch features a scratch-resistant Power Glass lens, diamond-like carbon coating, and an always-on 1.4″ display that can be easily read in any light condition. The fiber-reinforced polymer bezel protects against wear and tear. At the same time, the silicone or titanium band ensures comfort during extended use.

With its advanced connectivity options, users can access compatible Garmin chartplotters for higher accuracy when navigating on the water. Additionally, support for optional BlueChart g3 coastal charts and LakeVü g3 inland maps allows you to quickly find your way home after exploring new waters.

Our first impressions of this watch were very positive; it looks great with its sleek design and has valuable features that make it perfect for anyone who spends a ton of time on the water and wants to extend battery life all day!

Pros

• Durable design with scratch-resistant Power Glass lens
• Easy to read always-on 1.4″ display
• Full-color GPS map display
• Silicone or titanium band options
• Advanced connectivity options

Cons

• Expensive compared to other Garmin watches

Performance & Overall Experience: 

Performance-wise, the quatix 7X Solar Edition is an impressive watch. Its multi-band frequency and GNSS network support provide a higher positioning accuracy when combined with the best marine GPS chartplotters.

Thanks to its Flashlight, Tide Changes, Anchor Drag Alerts, and Waypoint Marking features, navigating the waters has never been easier. We also appreciate its intuitive touchscreen, which makes it easy to access all the functions within seconds.

Overall, using the quatix 7X Solar Edition was a great experience. We could easily plan our route with its powerful mapping technology and access valuable data such as tide changes and anchor drag alerts while on the water. This solar GPS watch has an impressive battery life, allowing us to spend extended periods at sea without worrying about charging it.

Tested Features:

• Scratch-resistant Power Glass lens
• Easy to read always-on 1.4″ display
• Full-color GPS map display
• Advanced connectivity options
• Flashlight, Tide Changes, Anchor Drag Alerts, and Waypoint Marking Features
• Intuitive touchscreen interface
• Solar charging time

Polar Grit X – Best GPS Watch for Multisports

Screen Size: 1.2 Inches
Touch Screen: Yes
Lens Material: Corning Gorilla Glass
Bezel Material: MIL-STD-810G
Strap Material: Silicone
Weight: 64g

See on Amazon

Details & First Impressions:

The Polar Grit X is an incredibly versatile and rugged multisport GPS smartwatch with many features. The watch has a 1.2-inch touchscreen display with Corning Gorilla Glass on the lens. At the same time, the MIL-STD-810G bezel provides military-level durability. It also comes with a silicone strap for added comfort and convenience.

At just 64g, it is one of the lightest outdoor watches available today. It offers up to 40 hours of battery life with GPS mode and HR tracking (or even 100 hours of extended battery life when using power save options). In addition to its long battery life, this watch boasts built-in GPS & GLONASS capabilities and a compass and altimeter for navigation.

Its FuelWise feature helps you stay energized throughout your training session by providing smart calorie intake advice, route guidance, and planning from Komoot. Additionally, the Hill Splitter feature ensures accurate readings during hill climbs or descents. Swimming metrics provide water resistance up to 100m depth.

Finally, the current weather report and the two-day forecast give you all the information before heading into nature! Our first impression was that this watch is perfect for any outdoor enthusiast who needs reliable navigation and performance tracking when exploring their surroundings.

Pros

• Military-level durability
• Lightweight and portable
• Built-in multi-band GPS & GLONASS, compass, and altimeter
• FuelWise Smart fueling assistant for calorie intake
• Route guidance and planning from Komoot
• Hill Splitter for accurate readings during hill climbs or descents
• Current weather report plus two-day forecast

Cons

• Unnecessary touchscreen considering the buttons are so good

Performance & Overall Experience: 

The Polar Grit X is a robust and reliable watch for outdoor enthusiasts. The GPS and HR tracking were accurate and efficient during our testing. The FuelWise feature was beneficial as it provided precise calorie intake advice throughout our training sessions, allowing us to stay energized during long hikes or runs.

Additionally, we found the Hill Splitter feature invaluable when mountain climbing or tackling steep hills. The current weather report and the two-day forecast also came in handy when planning our next adventure.

Overall, our experience with the Polar Grit X was very positive. We highly recommend this GPS watch to anyone looking for a reliable multisport GPS smartwatch with maps that provide top-notch performance and features.

Tested Features:

• Military-level durability
• Built-in GPS & GLONASS
• FuelWise calorie assistant
• Route guidance & planning
• Hill Splitter app
• Swimming metrics in 100m of water
• Weather forecasting

SUUNTO 9 Peak – Best GPS Watch for Trail Running

Screen Size: 1.6 Inches
Touch Screen: Yes
Lens Material: Sapphire Glass
Bezel Material:  Steel
Strap Material: Silicone
Weight: 52g

See on Amazon

Details & First Impressions:

The Suunto 9 Peak is an impressive multisport GPS watch that offers many features to help you track and improve your performance. It’s the thinnest, lightest, and most rigid watch ever made by Suunto, with a 1.6-inch touch screen protected by sapphire glass for maximum durability. The bezel is made from stainless steel, while the strap is silicone for comfort and flexibility during workouts.

This watch boasts up to 170 hours of battery life in GPS mode and 21 days in smartwatch mode – perfect for training or racing over long distances! 

Other features include blood oxygen level tracking, music functionality, weather functions, water resistance up to 100m, over 80 sport modes, sleep tracking, and more. Plus, it’s proudly made with 100% renewable energy and is one of the best budget GPS watches on the market.

Our first impressions using this watch were extremely positive – we found it comfortable to wear all day without feeling bulky or intrusive on our wrists. Its intuitive interface makes navigating through menus simple, even running at full speed!

Pros

• Thinnest, smallest, and most rigid GPS watch ever made
• Sapphire glass for maximum durability
• Up to 170 hours of battery life in GPS mode
• Over 80 sports modes are available
• Made with 100% renewable energy

Cons

• Strap is uncomfortable
• Touchscreen is not needed

Performance & Overall Experience: 

The performance of the Suunto 9 Peak was awe-inspiring. The GPS tracked our runs and rides with great accuracy, while the 80+ sport modes offered us more options than any other watch of this size. We were also surprised by the long battery life, powering through even our most extended training sessions without charging it in between.

The overall experience with the watch was great as well. Its intuitive design made it easy to navigate, and its comfortable strap allowed us to wear it all day without discomfort. We were also impressed by its features, such as sleep tracking and music playback, which gave us added convenience and enjoyment during our workouts.

Tested Features:

• GPS tracking
• 80+ sports modes
• Best Battery Life
• Sapphire glass screen
• Sleep tracking
• Music playback

Garmin Enduro

Screen Size: 1.4 Inches
Touch Screen: Yes
Lens Material: Power Sapphire 
Bezel Material:  Steel
Strap Material: Nylon
Weight: 68g

See on Amazon

Details & First Impressions:

The Garmin Enduro is an excellent choice for an ultra-performance watch built to last. It features a 1.4-inch touch screen with a power sapphire lens, steel bezel, and nylon strap.

The battery life is impressive as it comes with solar charging, which can last up to 46 days in smartwatch mode. It also has a recovery time advisor and other built-in sports apps like topoActive maps, LED flashlight, and NextFork map guide showing the distance to the next trail intersection.

The grade-adjusted pace helps you understand how to adjust your pace over varying terrain, and an automatic rest timer logs your breaks. We were impressed by its design and specs when we got our hands on this watch; it looks sleek yet rugged simultaneously!

Pros

• Ultra-performance watch, built to last
• High-quality touch screen and lens material
• Solar charging with up to 46 days of battery life in smartwatch mode
• Includes grade-adjusted pace and recovery time advisor
• Built-in sports apps

Cons

• It is costly

Performance & Overall Experience: 

The Garmin Enduro is a well-crafted watch that performs exceptionally well. We were pleasantly surprised by the battery life, which lasted up to 46 days in smartwatch mode with solar charging.

We also liked the recovery time advisor and the built-in sports apps that come with it, such as topoActive maps and the NextFork map guide. The grade-adjusted pace helped us understand how to adjust our pace over varying terrain. The automatic rest timer logged our breaks accurately.

Overall, we had a great experience with this watch. Not only is it aesthetically pleasing, but its performance never failed us, either. It’s worth its hefty price tag due to its durability and solar charging capabilities. We highly recommend this ultimate GPS watch to anyone looking for an ultra-performance watch with all the features necessary for any adventure!

Tested Features:

• Ultra-performance watch
• Solar charging
• Recovery time advisor
• Built-in sports apps
• Grade-adjusted pace

GARMIN MARQ Adventurer (Gen 2)

Screen Size: 1.2″
Touch Screen: Yes
Lens Material: Domed sapphire crystal
Bezel Material: Titanium (Grade 5)
Strap Material: Leather and FKM rubber
Weight: 92g

Check Price

Details & First Impressions:

Our first impressions of the MARQ Adventurer Gen 2 were overwhelmingly positive. This smartwatch is a veritable powerhouse, boasting an array of features packaged in a sleek, stylish design. The 32 GB memory is more than ample for storing maps and workout data, while the 1.2″ touch screen is crystal clear and responsive.

With up to 16 days of battery life (or even 21 days in battery-saver mode), we found ourselves worrying less about charging and more about exploring.

We were particularly impressed with the watch’s ability to monitor a comprehensive range of health statistics – including heart rate, stress, and sleep – and its fitness-oriented features, such as rep counting and tailored workouts for activities like yoga and pilates.

The inclusion of multi-frequency positioning and SATIQ technology also ensured unparalleled positioning accuracy.

In short, the MARQ Adventurer Gen 2 is a testament to modern wearable technology, proving itself to be an invaluable companion for any adventurer.

Pros

• Long-lasting battery life
• Extensive health and fitness features
• Large storage capacity (32GB)
• Crystal clear touchscreen display
• Accurate multi-frequency positioning tech

Cons

• High-end price point

Performance & Overall Experience:

The performance of the MARQ Adventurer Gen 2 was nothing short of exceptional in our testing. The GPS, GLONASS, and Galileo technologies ensured precise tracking during our outdoor activities, while the health and fitness features provided insightful and accurate data about our body’s response to exercise.

The watch’s user-friendly interface, coupled with its robust construction, added to the overall positive experience. However, the high-end price point may be a deterrent for some consumers.

Despite the cost, we believe the breadth of features and top-notch performance make it a worthy investment for serious outdoor enthusiasts.

Tested Features:

• GPS accuracy
• Battery longevity
• Health statistics monitoring
• Workout data tracking
• Multi-frequency positioning
• Screen display quality
• User interface usability
• Device durability

Garmin Epix (Gen 2)

Screen Size: 1.3″
Touch Screen: Yes
Lens Material: Sapphire crystal
Bezel Material: Carbon gray DLC titanium
Strap Material: Silicone
Weight: 70g (2.4oz)

See on Amazon

Details & First Impressions:

The Garmin Epix (Gen 2) is a spectacular GPS watch that brings together a combination of robust features and stylish design. It boasts a 1.3″ always-on AMOLED display, wrapped with a durable sapphire crystal lens and a carbon gray DLC titanium bezel, offering a perfect blend of function and form.

This watch is equipped with a 24/7 health monitoring system and other notable health features like:

• Pulse ox
• Heart rate monitor
• Respiration monitor
• Stress tracking
• Sleep score
• Body battery
• Hydration tracking

The unique Nextfork map guide and Outdoormaps+ are also included, along with SATIQ™ technology for wider satellite coverage. A built-in sports app, golf mode, music apps, and a stock tracker make it a comprehensive tool for any outdoor enthusiast.

It comes in a 47mm case size, but the Pro version offers 42, 47, and 51mm sizes.

When compared to the Garmin MARQ (Gen 2), the Epix (Gen 2) offers similar features but stands out at about half the price. While the MARQ 2 is a high-end luxury watch, the Garmin Epix (Gen 2) provides comparable functionality at a more affordable price, making it an excellent choice for those seeking high-quality performance without the high-end price tag.

Our first impression? The Garmin Epix (Gen 2) is a premium timepiece that delivers not only on performance but also on value for money.

Pros

• Comprehensive health and wellness tracking
• Wide satellite coverage with SATIQ™ technology
• Loaded with built-in sports apps
• Affordably priced compared to similar options
• Durable and high-quality construction

Cons

• Might be bulky for small wrists

Performance & Overall Experience:

The performance of the Garmin Epix (Gen 2) is nothing short of impressive. The watch excels in providing accurate, real-time data thanks to its SATIQ™ technology, which ensures more satellite coverage and precision. The various built-in sports apps offer a wide range of sport-specific data, enhancing your overall outdoor experience.

Compared to the Garmin MARQ 2, which costs over $2,000, the Epix (Gen 2) holds its own remarkably well, delivering high-end features without the high-end price tag. While the MARQ 2 boasts of luxury, the Epix (Gen 2) wins with its affordable accessibility without compromising on its feature-rich offerings.

Our overall experience with the Garmin Epix (Gen 2) was extremely positive. Its seamless integration of technology, wellness features, and outdoor tools made it a joy to use for all our outdoor activities.

Tested Features:

• 24/7 health monitoring
• Built-in sports apps
• SATIQ™ satellite coverage
• Nextfork™ map guide
• Outdoor Maps+ feature
• Pulse oximeter performance
• Heart rate monitoring
• Stress tracking feedback
• Hydration tracking function
• Music apps integration
• Stock tracker utility
• GPS precision and accuracy

Buyer’s Guide for GPS Watches with Maps

Before purchasing a GPS watch with a map display, you must consider all available features, preferences, and prices.

Here is a guide starting from the top to help you make an informed decision:

Price

GPS watches with maps are the latest in tech and have a high price tag. No matter what features you’re looking for, these watches are pricey. Even entry-level models can cost upwards of $200, while more advanced models can easily reach prices of over $600.

Additionally, since GPS technology constantly evolves, it’s essential to remember that newer models may offer more advanced features than the current version.

Battery life

When considering the battery life of a GPS watch with maps, it is essential to consider how long you will need it to last before recharging.

Some models offer exceptional battery life, while others may only provide 24 hours of battery life. This means that depending on your use, you should look for a watch with a battery life that fits your needs.

Another vital factor to consider is how quickly the watch will recharge. Some models offer fast charging, allowing you to top up in less than an hour, and a solar-charged watch may trickle charge all day in the sun.

Reliability and Accuracy

When purchasing a GPS watch with maps, it is crucial to consider the reliability and accuracy of the GPS signal. This will ensure that you get accurate readings of your location and activities., This ensures you are going in the right direction (See how GPS works). As such, look for watches with reliable and accurate signals from multiple satellites – this will give you better coverage even in challenging conditions.

Furthermore, certain models have additional sensors that enhance precision by compensating for weak signals or interference from external sources.

Design

Design is another crucial factor to consider before purchasing a GPS watch with maps. Many options are available, from sleek and stylish designs to more rugged models that can stand up to the elements.

Some models have silicone wristbands, while other sleeker versions may include a classic titanium wristband. Additionally, some watches come with special features such as GPS tracking for adults and kids, heart rate monitoring, step count tracking, sleep tracking, and altimeter. Ultimately, the best tracker for you will depend on your lifestyle needs. Whether you’re looking to monitor your fitness goals or you need a device to keep track of your family’s whereabouts – Trakkit has the right fit for you.

When choosing the right design for you, think about how often you will be wearing your watch and what activities you plan on using it for – this way, you can find one that best suits your needs and lifestyle.

Features/Functionality

It is essential to consider the features that each watch offers. Depending on your needs, various features are available, such as GPS tracking, sports modes, golf course GPS, Golf GPS handhelds, marine maps, battery life, sleep tracking, and music playback.

Some watches come with exclusive pre-loaded maps that offer a valuable tool for navigation or obtaining accurate weather updates in diverse areas or terrain. You may also be able to load multiple maps.

Connectivity Options

GPS watches with maps often rely on an internet connection to operate fully. Without a connection, the watch may be unable to access the most up-to-date maps and data and real-time updates such as weather. 

Additionally, some GPS watches feature multiple satellite connections for superior accuracy and precision by compensating for weak signals or interference.

Durability

When investing in a GPS watch with maps, it is crucial to consider the durability of each model. After all, you want your watch to last for a long time and withstand any conditions that come its way.

It is essential to look for water resistance, shockproof construction, and scratch-resistant materials, ensuring your watch can handle whatever life throws.

Additionally, ensure the band or strap is made from high-quality materials so it does not tear or break easily over time.

By considering these factors before investing in a GPS watch with maps, you can rest assured knowing that your purchase will be well worth the money.

Conclusion

Trakkit GPS is dedicated to giving customers the best advice when purchasing a GPS watch with maps. After conducting our tests, we have all the necessary knowledge and guidance so that you can make an informed decision.

All six watches we highlighted did quite well in their own right, and each had its strengths and weaknesses. But now that you understand what to look for in terms of price, battery life, signal reliability, design, and features, you’ll be able to find the best value or determine if you should continue searching elsewhere.

If you need a reliable watch that tracks your position on a map WITH solar technology – check out the best solar GPS watches on the market!

Frequently Asked Questions