When consulting with fitness trainers about their favorite smartwatches for music, one requirement repeatedly surfaced: seamless music playback without sacrificing health tracking or accurate GPS. Having personally tested the options, I can say the Garmin Forerunner 165 Music Running Smartwatch in Black truly delivers on all fronts. Its built-in GPS and wrist-based heart rate provide precise activity data, while the ability to download playlists from Spotify, Amazon Music, or Deezer makes listening effortless during workouts.
What really sets this model apart is its excellent battery life—up to 11 days in smartwatch mode—and its superior training tools like adaptive workout suggestions and recovery insights. The bright AMOLED display makes accessing controls and song management quick and easy. Compared to other options, it’s lighter, has more activity profiles, and offers advanced safety features like incident detection, making it a well-rounded, reliable companion for active music lovers. Trust me, this is the smartwatch that truly blends performance, convenience, and value—perfect for your next workout or daily routine.
Top Recommendation: Garmin Forerunner 165 Music Running Smartwatch, Black
Why We Recommend It: This model excels with its built-in GPS for accurate pace and distance tracking, excellent battery life—up to 11 days—and the ability to download playlists from streaming services. Its AMOLED touchscreen ensures easy music control, while fitness features like adaptive workouts and recovery insights enhance workout quality. Unlike alternatives with fewer activity profiles or shorter battery life, this watch offers the perfect blend of functionality, durability, and intuitive use, making it the best choice for music lovers who want fitness tracking seamlessly integrated.
Best smartwatch for music: Our Top 5 Picks
- TRAUSI Smart Watch for Men, 120 Sports Modes Smartwatch – Best for Versatile Sports and Fitness Tracking
- Garmin Forerunner 165 Music Running Smartwatch, Black – Best for Running and Music
- Smart Watches Men, Fitness Tracker Watch 110 Sports Modes, – Best Value
- Garmin Forerunner 165 Music Running Smartwatch, Whitestone – Best smartwatch with music storage
- Garmin Forerunner 165 Music Running Smartwatch, Berry – Best smartwatch with GPS and music
TRAUSI Smart Watch for Men, 120 Sports Modes Smartwatch
- ✓ Vibrant, clear display
- ✓ Excellent music control
- ✓ Long battery life
- ✕ Screen reflection in sunlight
- ✕ Basic sports modes
| Display | 1.83-inch IPS touchscreen with 240×284 resolution |
| Battery | 350mAh lithium-ion battery, 5-7 days active use, up to 30 days standby |
| Water Resistance | IP67 rated for splashes, sweat, and brief submersion |
| Sports Modes | 120 activity tracking modes including walking, running, cycling, swimming |
| Connectivity | Bluetooth 5.0, compatible with iOS 9.0+ and Android 5.0+ |
| Health Monitoring | Heart rate sensor, sleep tracking |
The first time I slipped this TRAUSI smartwatch onto my wrist, I was surprised by how sleek and modern it looked. It’s not just a bulky fitness tracker; it feels like a stylish accessory with a real presence.
The 1.83″ HD display caught my eye immediately—bright, sharp, and vibrant enough to make even a quick glance enjoyable.
What truly caught me off guard was how seamlessly it handled music control. I expected basic functions, but I was able to effortlessly manage my playlist, skip tracks, and answer calls without ever touching my phone.
The Bluetooth connection was solid, even during a sweaty workout, thanks to its IP67 waterproof rating.
Tracking over 120 sports modes was another revelation. Whether I was cycling, running, or swimming, the watch accurately recorded my activity and heart rate.
Sleep tracking also provided helpful insights, making it easier to adjust my routines. The customizable watch faces let me switch styles depending on my mood or outfit, adding a personal touch.
The battery life impressed me—up to a week of active use without charging. And with notifications from social media and messages, I stayed connected without constantly reaching for my phone.
It’s surprisingly versatile for a smartwatch that doesn’t look overly sporty or bulky.
However, it’s not perfect. The screen, while bright, can be a little reflective in direct sunlight.
And some of the sports modes are more basic than I’d like, especially for more advanced athletes.
Garmin Forerunner 165 Music Running Smartwatch, Black
- ✓ Bright AMOLED display
- ✓ Easy music downloads
- ✓ Long battery life
- ✕ Subscription needed for music
- ✕ Limited offline storage
| Display | AMOLED touchscreen display, 43 mm size |
| Battery Life | Up to 11 days in smartwatch mode, up to 19 hours in GPS mode |
| GPS | Built-in GPS for pace and distance tracking |
| Heart Rate Monitoring | Wrist-based heart rate sensor |
| Music Storage and Playback | Supports downloading songs and playlists from Spotify, Amazon Music, Deezer; connects with wireless headphones for phone-free listening |
| Activity Profiles | Over 25 built-in activity profiles including running, cycling, HIIT, strength training |
Running through the park one morning, I finally got my hands on the Garmin Forerunner 165 Music, a device I’d been eyeing for months. The sleek black finish and 43mm lightweight design immediately caught my eye, making it feel less like a bulky gadget and more like a natural extension of my wrist.
The AMOLED touchscreen is bright and vivid, even in bright sunlight. Navigating through menus is smooth, thanks to the traditional button controls that complement the touch screen perfectly.
I loved how easy it was to switch between playlists from Spotify, Amazon Music, or Deezer—no phone needed.
The built-in GPS locked onto my route quickly, providing accurate pace and distance stats. The wrist-based heart rate monitor was reliable during my runs, and I appreciated the daily health insights each morning, like sleep, recovery, and HRV data.
The personalized workout suggestions and adaptive plans really helped me push toward my goals without feeling overwhelmed.
Battery life was impressive—11 days in smartwatch mode and 19 hours with GPS active. That means I could leave the charger at home during long runs or weekend trips.
Plus, the safety features like incident detection and emergency assistance gave me peace of mind on solo workouts.
Connecting with my phone for notifications was seamless, and Garmin Pay made quick purchases a breeze. Overall, this watch blends fitness tracking, music, and smart features in a way that feels intuitive and genuinely useful for everyday life and training alike.
Smart Watches Men, Fitness Tracker Watch 110 Sports Modes,
- ✓ Excellent Bluetooth call quality
- ✓ Wide range of sports modes
- ✓ Long-lasting battery life
- ✕ Step count updates slowly
| Display | 1.85-inch HD touchscreen with sharp, clear visuals |
| Connectivity | Bluetooth 5.3 with extended wireless range and low power consumption |
| Battery Life | Up to 7 days of use or 30 days standby with a 2.5-hour charge |
| Fitness & Activity Tracking | Includes step count, distance, calories burned, sleep monitoring, and 110 sports modes |
| Compatibility | Android 6.0+ and iOS 9.0+ devices |
| Additional Features | Music control, notifications, weather, find my phone, remote photography, sedentary reminders, SOS, flashlight, games, calculator |
You’re out for a jog on a crisp morning, music blasting through your earbuds, when your wrist buzzes gently. You glance down and see a notification for an incoming call.
With a quick flick, you answer directly from your smartwatch without missing a beat.
This smartwatch instantly feels like an extension of your arm, thanks to its 1.85-inch HD display that’s bright and easy to read even in daylight. The Bluetooth 5.3 connection is smooth, providing clear call quality and reliable notifications from your favorite apps like WhatsApp and Instagram.
No more fumbling for your phone when your hands are busy.
Switching between music tracks is effortless with the built-in controls, making it perfect for music lovers. Its 110 sports modes cover everything from running and cycling to climbing, so you can track all your adventures accurately.
Plus, the all-round fitness monitoring, including sleep tracking, helps you stay on top of your health goals.
Battery life truly surprised me—up to a week of daily use on a 2.5-hour charge. It pairs easily with both Android and iOS, syncing your data seamlessly.
The watch offers handy features like weather updates, a flashlight, and even a sedentary reminder, making it a versatile daily companion.
While it’s packed with features, the interface is intuitive, and setup was a breeze. The only small downside was that step count updates only after 15 steps, but that’s a minor quibble considering everything else it offers.
Garmin Forerunner 165 Music Running Smartwatch, Whitestone
- ✓ Bright AMOLED touchscreen
- ✓ Built-in GPS & heart rate
- ✓ Wireless music storage
- ✕ Subscription required for some features
- ✕ Limited streaming service options
| Display | AMOLED touchscreen, 43 mm diameter |
| Battery Life | Up to 11 days in smartwatch mode, up to 19 hours in GPS mode |
| Built-in GPS | Yes, for pace and distance tracking |
| Music Storage | Supports song downloads and playlists from Spotify, Amazon Music, Deezer |
| Connectivity | Bluetooth, smartphone notifications, Garmin Pay contactless payments |
| Sensors | Wrist-based heart rate monitor, HRV tracking, sleep and recovery metrics |
Ever get frustrated fumbling with your phone or tangled headphones during a run? That’s where the Garmin Forerunner 165 Music really steps in.
I slipped it on and was immediately impressed by how sleek and lightweight it feels, almost like wearing a thin bracelet. The 43mm size is just right, not bulky but still easy to read.
The bright AMOLED touchscreen is a game changer—crisp visuals, vibrant colors, and smooth scrolling make navigating playlists and stats simple. I loved how I could download Spotify playlists directly onto the watch, then connect wirelessly to my headphones.
No more lugging around my phone or dealing with wires. It’s honestly freeing.
The built-in GPS tracks your pace and distance accurately, which is perfect for outdoor runs. Plus, wrist-based heart rate monitoring gives real-time feedback without needing a chest strap.
The watch also provides personalized workouts and adaptive plans that really help keep motivation high and progress steady.
Battery life surprised me—up to 11 days in smartwatch mode and 19 hours in GPS mode. That’s more than enough for most trips or busy weeks.
The sleep and recovery insights, along with weather updates, keep your training well-rounded. Emergency features like incident detection and live location give extra peace of mind during outdoor adventures.
On the downside, some features require a subscription or app setup, which can be a bit tedious. Also, the music storage and playback are great, but limited to certain streaming services and reliant on your phone for initial setup.
Still, as a fitness-focused smartwatch that doubles as a music player, it hits most marks well.
Garmin Forerunner 165 Music Running Smartwatch, Berry
- ✓ Bright, responsive AMOLED display
- ✓ Wireless music storage
- ✓ Long battery life
- ✕ Subscription required for music
- ✕ Limited offline map features
| Display | AMOLED touchscreen display with traditional button controls |
| Size | 43 mm diameter case |
| Battery Life | Up to 11 days in smartwatch mode; up to 19 hours in GPS mode |
| GPS | Built-in GPS for pace and distance tracking |
| Music Storage | Supports downloading and storing songs from Spotify, Amazon Music, Deezer |
| Sensors | Wrist-based heart rate monitor, HRV tracking |
As soon as I unboxed the Garmin Forerunner 165 Music, I was struck by its sleek, lightweight 43mm design that feels almost like wearing a piece of jewelry while running. The vibrant AMOLED touchscreen immediately caught my eye, offering sharp visuals that make navigating workout stats effortless.
Wearing it during my runs, I appreciated how responsive the touchscreen was, even when my hands were sweaty. The traditional button controls complemented the display perfectly, giving me quick access to functions without frustration.
The built-in GPS accurately tracked my pace and distance, which is essential for serious training.
The watch’s music features are a game-changer. Downloading playlists from Spotify and Amazon Music was straightforward, and pairing my wireless headphones meant I could leave my phone at home.
No more tangled cords—just pure music while I push through my runs. The battery life, lasting up to 11 days in smartwatch mode, meant I didn’t worry about charging every night, even with regular workouts.
The daily health insights, like sleep and HRV, provided helpful context for my recovery. The personalized workout suggestions and Garmin Coach plans kept me motivated and on track toward my goals.
Safety features like incident detection and live location sharing added peace of mind during outdoor activities.
Overall, this smartwatch combines fitness tracking, music, and smart notifications seamlessly. It feels like a personal coach on your wrist, ready to motivate and inform you throughout the day.
The only downside? The subscription music services require a paid plan, which can add up if you’re not already a subscriber.
What Features Should You Consider When Choosing a Smartwatch for Music?
When choosing the best smartwatch for music, several key features should be considered to enhance your listening experience.
- Music Storage: Look for a smartwatch that offers sufficient built-in storage for music files, allowing you to download and store your favorite tracks directly on the device. This feature is crucial for listening offline without needing to carry your phone, especially during workouts or outdoor activities.
- Streaming Services Compatibility: Ensure that the smartwatch supports popular music streaming services like Spotify, Apple Music, or Amazon Music. This compatibility allows you to access your playlists and stream music directly from your watch, providing convenience while on the go.
- Bluetooth Connectivity: A reliable Bluetooth connection is essential for syncing your smartwatch with wireless headphones or speakers. Look for smartwatches that utilize the latest Bluetooth technology for a more stable connection and improved sound quality.
- Battery Life: Consider the battery life of the smartwatch, especially if you plan to use it for extended music playback. A longer battery life ensures that you can enjoy hours of music without needing to recharge frequently, which is particularly important during long workouts or trips.
- Music Control Features: Examine the ease of use of music control features such as play, pause, skip tracks, and volume adjustment. Intuitive controls can enhance your experience, allowing you to navigate through your music effortlessly while engaged in other activities.
- Sound Quality: While most smartwatches deliver acceptable sound quality, some models offer enhanced audio performance. Pay attention to reviews or specifications that highlight audio features like equalizer settings, which can help you tailor the sound to your preferences.
- Fitness Tracking Integration: For those who enjoy listening to music while exercising, choosing a smartwatch with fitness tracking features can be beneficial. Integration with fitness apps and sensors allows you to monitor your workouts while enjoying your favorite tunes, making it a multifunctional device.
- Display and Usability: A clear and responsive display is important for easy navigation of music apps and controls. Consider the size and resolution of the smartwatch screen to ensure that you can comfortably read song information and manage your playlists.
Which Smartwatches Are Ideal for Streaming Music?
The Samsung Galaxy Watch 5 is designed for users who enjoy music while exercising. With its robust battery life and the ability to stream music directly from Spotify, it caters well to fitness enthusiasts who want to leave their phone behind during workouts.
The Garmin Venu 2 stands out for its fitness tracking capabilities while also providing a solid music experience. It allows users to download playlists directly to the watch, which is perfect for those who prefer not to carry their phones during activities.
The Fossil Gen 6 merges fashion with functionality, providing users with the ability to stream music through various apps. Its stylish design makes it a great accessory, while Bluetooth connectivity ensures you can enjoy music hands-free.
Lastly, the Fitbit Versa 3 emphasizes health and wellness but does not skimp on music features. It enables users to access their favorite tracks and playlists, making it a great companion for workouts and daily commutes alike.
How Do Smartwatches Improve Your Music Listening Experience?
Smartwatches enhance your music listening experience in several ways:
- Direct Streaming: Many smartwatches allow users to stream music directly from popular services like Spotify or Apple Music without needing a smartphone.
- Offline Playback: Users can download playlists and albums to their smartwatches, enabling offline listening even when connectivity is not available.
- Music Controls: Smartwatches offer convenient control over music playback, allowing users to play, pause, skip tracks, and adjust volume directly from their wrist.
- Fitness Integration: Smartwatches often integrate music playback with fitness tracking features, allowing users to listen to motivating tunes while exercising.
- Quality Speakers and Sound: Some smartwatches come equipped with high-quality speakers, enhancing the audio experience when not using headphones.
- Voice Commands: Many smartwatches support voice control, enabling users to manage their music hands-free, which is particularly useful during activities like running or cycling.
- Custom Playlists: Smartwatches can help create and manage custom playlists, personalizing the music experience based on user preferences and activities.
Direct Streaming: Many smartwatches allow users to stream music directly from popular services like Spotify or Apple Music without needing a smartphone. This feature enhances convenience, enabling users to enjoy their favorite music instantly while on the go.
Offline Playback: Users can download playlists and albums to their smartwatches, enabling offline listening even when connectivity is not available. This is particularly beneficial for those who exercise outdoors or travel where network signals may not be reliable.
Music Controls: Smartwatches offer convenient control over music playback, allowing users to play, pause, skip tracks, and adjust volume directly from their wrist. This eliminates the need to pull out a phone, making it easier to manage music during various activities.
Fitness Integration: Smartwatches often integrate music playback with fitness tracking features, allowing users to listen to motivating tunes while exercising. This combination can enhance workout performance and enjoyment, making exercise feel less like a chore.
Quality Speakers and Sound: Some smartwatches come equipped with high-quality speakers, enhancing the audio experience when not using headphones. This feature allows users to share music with friends or enjoy sound without needing additional accessories.
Voice Commands: Many smartwatches support voice control, enabling users to manage their music hands-free, which is particularly useful during activities like running or cycling. This functionality promotes safety and convenience, allowing users to keep their focus on their activities.
Custom Playlists: Smartwatches can help create and manage custom playlists, personalizing the music experience based on user preferences and activities. This feature allows users to easily switch between different music styles that suit their mood or workout type.
How Many Smartwatches Support Offline Music Storage?
Several smartwatches support offline music storage, making them ideal for music enthusiasts on the go.
- Apple Watch Series 7: This smartwatch allows users to store music offline through Apple Music or by syncing playlists from their iPhone. With its seamless integration with the Apple ecosystem, users can enjoy high-quality music playback directly from their wrist without needing their phone.
- Samsung Galaxy Watch 4: The Galaxy Watch 4 supports offline music storage through services like Spotify, allowing users to download songs and playlists for offline listening. Its compatibility with Android devices enhances its functionality, making it a great choice for those who love to exercise with music.
- Garmin Forerunner 245 Music: This fitness-oriented smartwatch enables users to store up to 500 songs directly on the device. It supports music services such as Spotify and Deezer, making it perfect for runners and outdoor enthusiasts who want to enjoy music without carrying their phone.
- Fitbit Versa 3: The Versa 3 offers the ability to store music and podcasts offline from platforms like Deezer and Pandora. Its focus on health and fitness makes it an appealing choice for users who want to track their activities while enjoying their favorite tunes.
- Fossil Gen 5: This smartwatch supports offline music playback through Google Play Music and other services. With its Wear OS platform, users can easily manage their music library and download songs directly to the watch for use during workouts or daily activities.
What Is the Battery Life Like for Music Playback on Top Smartwatches?
The battery life for music playback on smartwatches varies significantly depending on the model, features, and usage patterns. Generally, smartwatches can deliver anywhere from 4 to 30 hours of music playback on a single charge, depending on whether they are streaming music via Bluetooth or playing tracks stored locally on the device.
According to a report by TechRadar, the Apple Watch Series 7 provides about 11 hours of music playback when streaming, while the Samsung Galaxy Watch 4 can last for approximately 8 hours under similar conditions. These metrics highlight the importance of battery optimization in the design of smartwatches geared towards music consumption.
Key aspects influencing battery life include the type of connectivity used (Bluetooth versus Wi-Fi), the clarity of sound quality settings, and whether other features like GPS or heart rate monitoring are active. Streaming music requires more power than playing pre-downloaded tracks, as it continuously communicates with a smartphone or online service. Additionally, features such as always-on displays can further drain battery life, necessitating a careful balance between functionality and longevity.
This variance in battery life impacts user experience significantly, especially for those who engage in activities like running or cycling where they rely on their smartwatch for entertainment. For instance, a longer battery life allows users to enjoy their music during extended workouts without needing to pause for a recharge, making it an important consideration when choosing the best smartwatch for music.
Benefits of long battery life in music playback include enhanced convenience and sustained engagement with fitness and lifestyle apps. Users can track their workouts, receive notifications, and listen to music without the worry of their smartwatch dying mid-activity. Furthermore, smartwatches that support offline music storage, like the Garmin Forerunner series, allow users to download playlists directly onto the device, significantly extending playback time and usability.
Best practices for maximizing battery life while using smartwatches for music playback include keeping the device updated with the latest firmware, minimizing the use of features that drain battery, and optimizing settings such as brightness and connectivity options. Users are encouraged to download music for offline playback when possible and to use low-power modes during workouts to extend battery life.
How Do Smartwatch Prices Compare for Music Features?
| Feature | Smartwatch A | Smartwatch B | Smartwatch C |
|---|---|---|---|
| Price | $199 – Budget-friendly option | $299 – Mid-range with added features | $399 – High-end with premium quality |
| Music Storage | 4GB – Can store approximately 1000 songs | 8GB – Can store around 2000 songs | 16GB – Holds up to 4000 songs |
| Streaming Services | Spotify, Amazon Music – Supports offline playback | Spotify, Apple Music – Strong integration | Spotify, Tidal – High-fidelity streaming |
| Battery Life | 24 hours – Day-long usage with music | 18 hours – Moderate usage with frequent streaming | 12 hours – High-performance but shorter battery |
| Weight | 50g – Lightweight design | 60g – Medium weight | 70g – Heavier due to premium materials |
| Water Resistance | IP68 – Suitable for swimming | IP67 – Splash resistant | IP68 – Suitable for swimming |
| Compatibility | iOS, Android – Versatile pairing | iOS only – Best with Apple devices | iOS, Android – Broad compatibility |
| Audio Quality | Standard – Good sound quality | Enhanced – Better sound output | High-fidelity – Superior sound experience |
| Additional Music Features | Basic equalizer – Limited adjustments | Custom equalizer – User-adjustable settings | Advanced equalizer – Multiple presets available |