Do All Smartwatches Have Built-In GPS?

Do All Smartwatches Have Built-In GPS? A Premium Guide to Understanding GPS in Wearable Tech

Smartwatches have evolved from simple time-telling accessories to powerful health, fitness, and productivity tools. Among their most sought-after features is GPS—used for tracking workouts, navigating routes, and logging location data. But here’s the truth: not all smartwatches have built-in GPS. Some rely on your smartphone’s GPS, while others offer full standalone tracking.

In this expert guide, we’ll explore the differences between built-in and connected GPS, why it matters, and how to choose the right smartwatch based on your needs. Whether you’re a runner, hiker, traveler, or tech enthusiast, understanding GPS functionality is essential for making an informed purchase.

🛰️ What Is GPS and Why Does It Matter in Smartwatches?

GPS (Global Positioning System) is a satellite-based navigation system that allows devices to determine their location anywhere on Earth. In smartwatches, GPS is used for:

• Tracking outdoor workouts (running, cycling, hiking)
• Mapping routes and distances
• Geotagging photos or activities
• Navigation and turn-by-turn directions
• Safety features like location sharing or SOS alerts

Having GPS built into your smartwatch means you can leave your phone behind and still track your location accurately. But not all watches offer this independence.

📱 Built-In GPS vs. Connected GPS: What’s the Difference?

🔹 Built-In GPS

Smartwatches with built-in GPS have their own satellite receiver. They can:

• Track location without a phone
• Provide real-time pace, distance, and route data
• Work in remote areas with no cellular signal

Examples: Garmin Forerunner series, Apple Watch Series 9, Samsung Galaxy Watch 6, Suunto 9 Peak

🔹 Connected GPS

Smartwatches with connected GPS use your smartphone’s GPS chip. They:

• Require your phone to be nearby
• Relay location data via Bluetooth
• May offer limited accuracy if the phone signal is weak

Examples: Fitbit Inspire 3, Amazfit Bip U, older Wear OS models

Key takeaway: If you want true location independence, choose a smartwatch with built-in GPS.

🧭 Why Some Smartwatches Skip Built-In GPS

There are several reasons why manufacturers opt for connected GPS:

• Cost savings: GPS chips add to production costs, so budget models often omit them.
• Battery life: GPS consumes significant power. Devices without built-in GPS can offer longer battery life.
• Size constraints: Slim or minimalist designs may not accommodate GPS hardware.
• Target audience: Watches designed for casual users or indoor fitness may not need GPS.

🏃‍♂️ Who Needs Built-In GPS?

If you engage in any of the following, a built-in GPS is a must:

• Outdoor running or cycling
• Trail hiking or mountain climbing
• Open-water swimming
• Traveling without a phone
• Using safety features like fall detection or emergency location sharing

For these activities, relying on your phone’s GPS can be limiting or unreliable.

📊 Comparison Table: Built-In vs. Connected GPS

🔍 How to Check If a Smartwatch Has Built-In GPS

Before buying, look for these indicators:

• Product specs: Look for “built-in GPS,” “standalone GPS,” or “GNSS support.”
• Supported satellite systems: GPS, GLONASS, Galileo, BeiDou
• Workout tracking features: Outdoor modes often require onboard GPS
• Brand reputation: Garmin, Suunto, Polar, and Apple typically include GPS in fitness-focused models

Tip: Don’t assume a smartwatch has GPS just because it tracks steps or heart rate. Location tracking is a separate feature.

🧪 Multi-GNSS Support: A Premium GPS Advantage

High-end smartwatches often support multiple satellite systems:

• GPS (USA)
• GLONASS (Russia)
• Galileo (EU)
• BeiDou (China)

Multi-GNSS improves accuracy, especially in urban environments or dense forests. If precision matters to you, look for watches with multi-GNSS capability.

🔋 Battery Life Considerations

GPS is a power-hungry feature. Watches with built-in GPS may offer:

• 8–12 hours of continuous GPS tracking (ideal for marathons or hikes)
• Smart battery modes that adjust GPS frequency
• Solar charging (in models like Garmin Fenix Solar)

If you need long GPS sessions, choose a watch with extended battery life or power-saving GPS modes.

🛍️ Popular Smartwatches With and Without Built-In GPS

✅ With Built-In GPS:

• Apple Watch Series 9
• Garmin Forerunner 265
• Samsung Galaxy Watch 6
• Suunto 9 Peak Pro
• Polar Vantage V2

❌ Without Built-In GPS (Connected GPS only):

• Fitbit Inspire 3
• Amazfit Bip U
• Xiaomi Mi Band 7
• Fossil Gen 5E

Always verify the specs before purchasing—some models offer GPS only in premium versions.

📝 Final Thoughts: Choose GPS Based on Your Lifestyle

So, do all smartwatches have built-in GPS? No—but many do, and choosing the right one depends on how you plan to use it.

If you’re an outdoor athlete, traveler, or someone who values location independence, built-in GPS is essential. If you’re a casual user who always carries a phone, connected GPS may be sufficient.

Understanding this distinction helps you avoid disappointment and ensures your smartwatch delivers the performance you expect.