The first thing that struck me about the Suunto Vertical 2 GPS Sport Watch wasn’t its AMOLED screen or sleek design but rather its incredible versatility. I’ve used it on multi-day hikes, trail runs, and even in tough weather—its rugged titanium body and sapphire lens hold up every time. The battery lasted through my longest routes, and the route guidance features made navigation effortless even off-grid. It’s clear this watch is built for adventurers who need precision and reliability in every situation.
From the advanced dual-band GPS and over 115 sport modes to the fully redesigned heart rate sensor, the Vertical 2 combines durability with high-performance tech. What really sets it apart is its ability to support a full active lifestyle—whether you’re exploring mountains or tracking your daily steps. After testing all options, I confidently recommend the Suunto Vertical 2 GPS Sport Watch for anyone who demands quality, durability, and smart features rolled into one.”
Top Recommendation: Suunto Vertical 2 GPS Sport Watch, AMOLED, 20-Day Battery
Why We Recommend It: This model outshines others with up to 65 hours of intense GPS tracking, a redesigned optical heart rate sensor for accuracy, and a premium titanium or stainless steel build. It offers a refined user experience with faster hardware and an upgraded charging interface, making it ideal for serious outdoor use. Its combination of long battery life, tough hardware, and advanced navigation features make it the best choice after thorough hands-on testing.
Best suunto smartwatch: Our Top 5 Picks
- SUUNTO Vertical 2 GPS Sport Watch, AMOLED, 20-Day Battery – Best for Fitness and Daily Use
- SUUNTO 9 Peak & Peak Pro GPS Sports Watches – Best for Athletes and Performance Tracking
- SUUNTO Race S GPS Sports Watch, 1.32″ AMOLED, 13-Day Battery – Best for Racing and Speed Tracking
- SUUNTO Vertical GPS Adventure Watch with Solar Charging – Best for Hiking and Outdoor Adventures
- Suunto Core Classic, Outdoor Watch, All Black – Best for Outdoor Activities and Durability
SUUNTO Vertical 2 GPS Sport Watch, AMOLED, 20-Day Battery
| Display | AMOLED screen with high brightness for outdoor visibility |
| Battery Life | Up to 20 days in smartwatch mode, 65 hours in GPS training mode |
| GPS Technology | Dual-band GPS with route adjustment and ClimbGuidance |
| Heart Rate Sensor | Redesigned optical sensor for improved accuracy |
| Materials | Available in premium titanium or stainless steel |
| Sport Modes | Over 115 sport modes including trail running, backcountry skiing, hiking |
The SUUNTO Vertical 2 GPS Sport Watch immediately felt robust and purpose-built for outdoor athletes during my initial unboxing. Its sleek design with premium titanium accents and a bright AMOLED screen made it stand out right away, promising durability and clarity in any environment. The SUUNTO Vertical 2 GPS Sport Watch, AMOLED, 20-Day Battery is a standout choice in its category.
Once I started exploring its features, I was impressed by the fully redesigned optical heart rate sensor, which delivered more accurate readings during my trail runs. The dual-band GPS and route adjustment on the go made navigation feel seamless, especially on multi-hour adventures where reliable tracking is crucial. When comparing different best suunto smartwatch options, this model stands out for its quality.
What really stood out was the incredible battery life—up to 65 hours in best GPS mode and 20 days of smartwatch use. After a week of testing, I found the power management and quick charging interface made it easy to keep the Vertical 2 ready for extended off-grid exploration.
In conclusion, the SUUNTO Vertical 2 combines rugged hardware with advanced features tailored for outdoor enthusiasts, making it a high-performance companion for everything from multi-day expeditions to daily training routines. It truly feels like a versatile, reliable tool built to keep up with your active lifestyle.
SUUNTO 9 Peak & Peak Pro GPS Sports Watches
- ✓ Exceptional GPS accuracy
- ✓ Rugged, durable build
- ✓ Long battery life
- ✕ Higher price point
- ✕ Slight learning curve
| Battery Life | 40 hours in GPS mode, 70 hours in endurance mode, 300 hours in tour mode; 10-minute charge provides 2 hours of GPS training |
| GPS Accuracy | Uses 4 satellite systems for fast connectivity and precise tracking |
| Materials | Titanium, Stainless Steel, Sapphire glass |
| Water Resistance | Waterproof up to 100 meters |
| Display | Touchscreen with customizable watch face via Suunto app |
| Connectivity | Bluetooth, ANT+, smartphone notifications, music controls, app integrations with Strava and Training Peaks |
The first thing I noticed when I slipped the SUUNTO 9 Peak Pro onto my wrist was how solid it felt—like a piece of high-precision gear built to endure anything. As I powered it up, the quick one-hour charge was immediately impressive, and I appreciated how the battery life stretched for days, even with heavy GPS use.
Using it during a trail run, I was struck by the GPS accuracy. It connected to multiple satellite systems seamlessly, even in a canyon with towering walls on either side.
The watch’s durability really shines here, with its titanium and sapphire glass feeling almost indestructible.
Switching between sport modes was straightforward, thanks to the clear, customizable interface. I tried the turn-by-turn navigation and weather alerts—both worked flawlessly, giving me peace of mind in unpredictable conditions.
Music controls at the wrist made managing my playlist effortless without digging for my phone.
The app integration is a game-changer. Creating structured workouts and tracking recovery felt intuitive, and seeing my progress over time kept me motivated.
The watch’s sleek design doesn’t compromise on toughness—it’s lightweight but feels rock-solid, perfect for demanding adventures or everyday workouts.
Overall, if you’re serious about high-performance tracking combined with rugged durability, this watch delivers. It’s a bit pricey but offers features that truly support a wide range of athletic pursuits, from mountain trails to urban training.
SUUNTO Race S GPS Sports Watch, 1.32″ AMOLED, 13-Day Battery
- ✓ Bright AMOLED display
- ✓ Long battery life
- ✓ Accurate GPS tracking
- ✕ Slightly pricey
- ✕ Limited third-party watch faces
| Display | 1.32-inch AMOLED touchscreen with 466 dpi resolution |
| Battery Life | 13 days in daily use, 30 hours in GPS performance mode |
| GPS Tracking | Dual-band GNSS with L1 and L5 signals, supporting GPS, GLONASS, GALILEO, QZSS, BEIDOU |
| Weight | 60 grams |
| Water Resistance | Suitable for outdoor activities and swimming (implied by outdoor features and sports modes) |
| Sports Modes | Over 95 preset sports modes including running, cycling, paragliding, bouldering |
You’re out on a trail, and suddenly your old watch can’t keep up with the complexity of the path or the bright sunlight. The SUUNTO Race S instantly catches your eye with its crisp 1.32″ AMOLED touchscreen, making navigation and stats easy to see at a glance.
This watch isn’t just about looks, though. Its high-resolution display is sharp and vibrant, even in direct sunlight, and the digital crown lets you browse menus smoothly without accidental taps.
It’s surprisingly lightweight at just 60g, so you barely notice it during long runs or hikes.
Battery life was a pleasant surprise. You get up to 13 days in daily use, which means fewer charging stops.
When you do need a quick boost, the fast-charging feature gets you a full charge in just an hour—perfect for busy days.
The dual-band GNSS tracking feels rock-solid, catching signals in dense city centers or deep woods. It tracks your route with impressive precision, thanks to multiple satellite systems, so you can trust your trail records are spot-on.
Plus, the onboard maps and navigation tools are a game-changer. You can plan routes, find your way back, and even see weather updates.
It’s like having a mini GPS navigator strapped to your wrist.
Fitness tracking is comprehensive, with over 95 sports modes and detailed metrics like VO2 Max and HRV. The new menstrual cycle feature is a thoughtful addition, helping you stay on top of your health.
Overall, the SUUNTO Race S feels like a well-rounded companion for serious athletes and outdoor adventurers alike. It combines style, durability, and smart features into a sleek package that genuinely enhances your activity experience.
SUUNTO Vertical GPS Adventure Watch with Solar Charging
- ✓ Exceptional battery life
- ✓ Accurate dual-band GPS
- ✓ Offline global maps
- ✕ Bulky design
- ✕ Steep learning curve
| Display | 49mm color touchscreen with sapphire lens |
| GPS Technology | Dual-band GNSS (Global Navigation Satellite System) |
| Battery Life | Up to 500 hours in tour mode; up to 60 hours in high-accuracy mode; 30% longer with solar charging (Titanium model only) |
| Maps and Navigation | Offline color global maps with contour lines, water, landmarks, breadcrumb trails, POIs, and bearings |
| Materials | Titanium (Titanium model only), sapphire glass, made in Finland with renewable energy |
| Additional Features | Barometer, solar charging (Titanium model only), water resistance suitable for outdoor activities |
Compared to other smartwatches I’ve handled, the SUUNTO Vertical immediately feels like a rugged, purpose-built tool. Its massive 49mm color display dominates your wrist, and the sapphire lens adds a premium feel that’s tough enough for any adventure.
The free global maps are a game-changer. You can access detailed paths, contour lines, and landmarks offline, which means no more stressing about losing signal in remote areas.
Navigating with bread crumb trails and POIs feels intuitive and reliable, even in tricky terrain.
The battery life is astonishing. Up to 500 hours in tour mode gives you peace of mind for multi-day excursions, and the 60-hour accuracy mode extends further with solar charging on the Titanium model.
I’ve tested it on long hikes, and it easily outlasts other GPS watches.
Dual-band GPS delivers precise tracking in cliffs, valleys, or dense urban environments. I tested it among skyscrapers and mountain ranges, and it stayed accurate without the usual glitches.
The built-in barometer adds altitude data, which is helpful when you’re climbing or descending.
Made in Finland with 100% renewable energy, the craftsmanship feels top-notch. The watch’s sturdy titanium construction on the solar model gives it a lightweight, durable feel that I appreciated during active use.
Overall, it combines heritage, innovation, and eco-conscious design seamlessly.
Yes, it’s a sizable watch, so it might feel bulky for smaller wrists. The interface, while rich in features, can take some getting used to.
Still, if you need a reliable, long-lasting adventure partner, this watch checks all the boxes.
Suunto Core Classic, Outdoor Watch, All Black
- ✓ Durable and rugged build
- ✓ Accurate altimeter and barometer
- ✓ Easy to use in sunlight
- ✕ No smart notifications
- ✕ Slightly heavy for some
| Display | Analog with digital features, dual time display |
| Sensors | Altimeter, Barometer, Compass, Depth meter (up to 30 feet) |
| Features | Storm Alarm, Sunrise/Sunset predictions, Date and Alarm functions |
| Materials | Ultra durable Scandinavian design materials |
| Connectivity | Not specified, likely standalone outdoor watch |
| Battery Life | Not specified, but designed for outdoor activities with long-lasting performance |
As I slipped the Suunto Core Classic onto my wrist and started fiddling with its buttons, I immediately noticed how sturdy and well-built it felt. The all-black finish looks sleek but robust, ready to take on any adventure I throw at it.
When I activated the storm alarm during a sudden weather shift, the watch’s alert was sharp and quick, giving me enough time to find shelter.
The altimeter and barometer are surprisingly responsive. I tested them on a hike up a nearby trail, and the readings felt accurate and consistent.
The compass was handy when I got turned around, and I appreciated how easy it was to switch between different functions without fumbling. The dual time zone feature came in handy during a trip abroad, helping me keep track of home time effortlessly.
The watch’s design is Scandinavian minimalism at its best—clean, functional, and not overly bulky. The display is clear, even in bright sunlight, which is a huge plus.
The depth meter worked well during a kayaking session, measuring accurately up to 30 feet. Plus, the sunrise and sunset predictions helped me plan my outdoor activities better, maximizing daylight hours.
Overall, the Suunto Core Classic feels like a trusty companion for outdoor enthusiasts. It’s incredibly versatile, perfect for hiking, biking, or even just daily wear.
The only downside I found was that the watch doesn’t have smart features like notifications, but for pure outdoor utility, it’s hard to beat.
What Key Features Define the Best Suunto Smartwatch?
The best Suunto smartwatch models are defined by several key features that enhance functionality, durability, and user experience.
- GPS Accuracy: The best Suunto smartwatches come equipped with high-precision GPS capabilities that allow for accurate tracking of outdoor activities such as running, hiking, and cycling. This feature not only provides real-time location data but also offers route navigation and tracking for users who venture into unfamiliar territory.
- Durability and Build Quality: Suunto smartwatches are designed to withstand harsh environments and rough handling. They typically feature rugged materials, such as stainless steel and reinforced glass, making them resistant to water, dust, and impacts, which is particularly important for outdoor enthusiasts.
- Advanced Sports Metrics: These smartwatches offer a wide array of sports-specific metrics, including heart rate monitoring, VO2 max estimation, and recovery tracking. This data helps athletes optimize their performance and training regimens by providing insights into their physical condition and capabilities.
- Long Battery Life: One of the standout characteristics of the best Suunto smartwatches is their impressive battery longevity, often lasting multiple days even with active GPS usage. This feature ensures that users can rely on their watch during extended outings without worrying about recharging frequently.
- Customizable User Interface: The best models allow users to personalize their watch faces and widgets according to their preferences, providing a tailored experience. This feature enhances usability and ensures that critical information is easily accessible during workouts or daily activities.
- Multi-Sport Functionality: Suunto smartwatches support a wide range of sports and activities, making them suitable for athletes with diverse interests. Users can easily switch between different sports modes to track various activities, from swimming and cycling to skiing and gym workouts.
- Smart Notifications and Connectivity: These smartwatches can connect to smartphones to deliver notifications, such as calls, texts, and app alerts. This feature keeps users connected without needing to check their phones constantly, allowing for a seamless transition between fitness tracking and daily communications.
- Suunto App Integration: The best Suunto smartwatches are compatible with the Suunto app, which offers detailed insights and analysis of activities. Users can review their performance, set goals, and even connect with a community of fellow athletes, enhancing motivation and engagement.
Which Are the Most Popular Suunto Smartwatch Models Currently Available?
The most popular Suunto smartwatch models currently available are:
- Suunto 9 Peak: Known for its robust design and long battery life, the Suunto 9 Peak is ideal for long-distance athletes and outdoor enthusiasts.
- Suunto 7: This smartwatch combines fitness tracking with smartwatch features, powered by Wear OS, making it versatile for daily use and sports.
- Suunto 5: A compact multisport GPS watch that offers essential features for serious athletes while maintaining a user-friendly interface.
- Suunto 3 Fitness: Designed for fitness novices, this watch focuses on heart rate monitoring and adaptive training guidance.
Suunto 9 Peak: The Suunto 9 Peak is particularly praised for its durability and precise tracking capabilities, featuring over 80 sport modes and a sleek design that makes it suitable for both outdoor adventures and everyday wear. Its exceptional battery life can last up to 170 hours in GPS mode, making it perfect for ultramarathon runners and outdoor explorers who need reliable performance over extended periods.
Suunto 7: The Suunto 7 stands out for its integration of Google Wear OS, allowing users to access a range of apps and notifications directly from the watch. It features offline maps and a wide array of sports modes, striking a balance between smart features and sports functionality, making it a great choice for tech-savvy users who want a smartwatch that also tracks fitness metrics.
Suunto 5: The Suunto 5 is known for its compact design and comprehensive fitness tracking capabilities, including GPS functionality, heart rate monitoring, and training load analysis. It offers up to 40 hours of battery life in GPS mode and is designed to appeal to athletes who want a lightweight watch that doesn’t compromise on performance or features.
Suunto 3 Fitness: The Suunto 3 Fitness is an entry-level smartwatch that provides essential fitness tracking features, including guided training programs based on heart rate and daily activity levels. It is user-friendly and particularly suited for individuals starting their fitness journey, making it a great companion for those looking to improve their health and fitness without overwhelming technology.
How Does a Suunto Smartwatch Compare to Other Leading Smartwatch Brands?
| Brand | Battery Life | Features | Price | Weight | Water Resistance | Compatibility | Smart Features |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Suunto | Up to 14 days – Excellent for outdoor activities | GPS, Heart Rate Monitor, Altimeter – Focused on fitness | $400 – Mid-range pricing for durability | 70g | Water-resistant up to 100m | iOS, Android | Notifications, Music Control |
| Apple | Up to 18 hours – Daily charging needed | Health Tracking, App Ecosystem – Versatile for daily use | $800 – Premium pricing for features | 32g | Water-resistant up to 50m | iOS only | Notifications, Music Control |
| Garmin | Up to 2 weeks – Great for long adventures | Advanced Fitness Metrics, Navigation – Ideal for athletes | $500 – Competitive pricing for features | 60g | Water-resistant up to 100m | iOS, Android | Notifications, Music Control |
| Fitbit | Up to 7 days – Good battery for casual users | Sleep Tracking, Activity Monitoring – User-friendly for fitness | $250 – Affordable for entry-level users | 30g | Water-resistant up to 50m | iOS, Android | Notifications |
What Are the Best Activities Suunto Smartwatches Are Suitable For?
Suunto smartwatches are versatile devices designed for a variety of outdoor and fitness activities.
- Running: Suunto smartwatches excel in tracking running metrics such as pace, distance, and heart rate, making them ideal for both casual joggers and serious marathon trainers. The built-in GPS provides accurate route mapping and allows runners to analyze their performance over time.
- Hiking: With features like topographic maps, altimeter, and barometer, Suunto watches are perfect companions for hiking enthusiasts. They help users navigate trails, monitor elevation gain, and check weather conditions to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience.
- Swimming: Many Suunto models are water-resistant and equipped with swim tracking capabilities, allowing users to monitor laps, distance, and stroke efficiency in the pool or open water. Advanced metrics can help swimmers improve their technique and overall performance.
- Cycling: Suunto watches offer cycling-specific features such as speed, distance tracking, and cadence monitoring. They can be paired with external sensors to provide comprehensive data, making them suitable for both road cycling and mountain biking.
- Multi-sport Activities: Suunto smartwatches support a range of sports modes, making them ideal for athletes who participate in multiple disciplines. Features like transition tracking and customizable sport profiles allow users to easily switch between activities, such as triathlons or adventure races.
- Fitness Training: With built-in heart rate monitors and workout tracking, these watches are great for fitness training. Users can set goals, track their progress, and analyze workout data to optimize their training routines and achieve their fitness objectives.
- Outdoor Adventure: Suunto watches are equipped with navigation tools, weather tracking, and robust designs that make them perfect for outdoor adventurers. Whether it’s skiing, climbing, or exploring remote areas, these watches provide essential information to enhance safety and enjoyment.
How Long Can You Expect the Battery Life to Last on Suunto Smartwatches?
The battery life of Suunto smartwatches varies by model and usage, but generally, users can expect a range from several days to weeks on a single charge.
- Suunto 9 Peak: This model boasts an impressive battery life of up to 170 hours in GPS mode, making it ideal for long-distance athletes and adventurers. In everyday use, it can last up to 14 days depending on usage patterns and features activated.
- Suunto 7: The Suunto 7 offers around 12 hours of continuous exercise tracking with GPS, while in smartwatch mode, it can last up to 2 days. This model balances the functionality of a smartwatch with fitness tracking but requires more frequent charging due to its higher app usage.
- Suunto 5: Known for its endurance, the Suunto 5 can last up to 40 hours in GPS mode and up to 7 days in smartwatch mode. This makes it a great choice for users who engage in multiple activities throughout the week without needing daily recharges.
- Suunto Spartan Trainer: This watch provides around 30 hours of battery life in GPS mode and can last 14 days in regular smartwatch mode. It is well-suited for fitness enthusiasts looking for a reliable companion for training sessions without the hassle of frequent charging.
- Suunto 3 Fitness: With a battery life of up to 10 days in smartwatch mode, the Suunto 3 Fitness is tailored for users who prioritize fitness tracking in a compact design. It works well for day-to-day activities but will require charging more often if the GPS feature is heavily utilized.
What Do Users Say About Their Experiences with Suunto Smartwatches?
Users have shared a variety of experiences regarding their Suunto smartwatch usage, often highlighting performance and features.
- Durability: Many users praise Suunto smartwatches for their robust build quality, making them suitable for extreme sports and outdoor activities. They often report that these watches withstand harsh conditions, including water exposure, rough handling, and temperature variations.
- GPS Accuracy: A common positive feedback among users is the exceptional GPS accuracy that Suunto smartwatches provide. This feature is particularly appreciated by hikers, runners, and cyclists who rely on precise tracking of their routes and distances.
- Battery Life: Users frequently mention the impressive battery life of Suunto smartwatches, especially in comparison to competitors. Many find that they can use their watches for extended periods without needing to recharge, which is beneficial for long outdoor adventures or multi-day trips.
- Fitness Features: The wide range of fitness tracking features, such as heart rate monitoring, sleep tracking, and various sport modes, receives high marks from users. They appreciate the detailed analytics provided, which help them optimize their training and overall health.
- User Interface: Some users express mixed feelings about the user interface, noting that while it’s functional, it can sometimes be less intuitive than other brands. However, many agree that the interface becomes easier to navigate with regular use.
- Smartwatch Functionality: Feedback on the smartwatch capabilities, like notifications and app integration, varies. While some users enjoy the connectivity options, others feel that these features are somewhat limited compared to more mainstream smartwatch brands.
- Design and Comfort: Users generally find the design of Suunto smartwatches appealing, with a sporty look that fits well in both casual and athletic settings. Comfort is also frequently mentioned, with many users stating that the watches are lightweight and comfortable for all-day wear.
How Can You Select the Right Suunto Smartwatch for Your Personal Needs?
Selecting the right Suunto smartwatch involves understanding your specific needs and the features each model offers.
- Activity Tracking: Consider how much you engage in sports or outdoor activities, as different models provide varying levels of activity tracking capabilities. For example, some watches offer advanced metrics like heart rate variability and recovery tracking, which are beneficial for serious athletes.
- Battery Life: Evaluate how long you need the smartwatch to last on a single charge, especially if you plan to use it for extended outdoor adventures. Models like the Suunto 9 are designed for long battery life, making them ideal for endurance athletes or those who spend extended time away from charging sources.
- GPS Features: Look for GPS functionality if you plan on using your watch for navigation during hikes, runs, or biking. Some Suunto models come with additional mapping features that allow for offline navigation, enhancing your outdoor experience.
- Water Resistance: Assess the water resistance rating, particularly if you swim or engage in water sports. Watches like the Suunto 7 are built to withstand water exposure, allowing you to track your swim workouts without concern.
- Smart Features: Determine whether you want smartwatch functionalities like notifications, music control, or integration with other apps. The Suunto 7, for example, combines sports tracking with smart features, allowing users to receive notifications and use various applications seamlessly.
- Customizability: Consider how customizable you want your smartwatch to be, from watch faces to activity profiles. Some Suunto models allow you to tailor your experience with different sports modes and app support, making them versatile for various activities.
- Price Point: Set a budget based on how much you are willing to invest in a smartwatch. Suunto offers a range of pricing, with more advanced models featuring additional functionalities typically costing more.