(checked 2026-10-10)
Wirecutter's runner-up fitness tracker for its built-in GPS, side button and tap-to-pay. Testers found the GPS unreliable, though, and about 1 in 5 Amazon ratings are 1 or 2 stars, often from trackers that stop working or stop syncing.
Top complaints
- Stops working, charging or syncing
Amazon's review summary says some owners report it completely stops working and stops syncing with their phones. Low-star Walmart reviews describe units that broke within a month, wouldn't charge out of the box, or showed glitchy screens. Wirecutter notes owner reports of flimsy band attachments that can break, which Google says it has improved.
- Unreliable GPS
TechRadar lists 'severely flaky GPS' as a con, especially with the strap fastened tight. Wirecutter hit connection problems and heard reports of spotty GPS, and Android Central found its GPS too erratic to chart.
- Tracking accuracy doubts
Amazon owners are split on step counting. TechRadar says heart-rate accuracy isn't the best and suffers with a looser fit. Low-star Walmart reviewers report heart-rate readings stuck low during exercise and sleep tracking that didn't match how they slept.
What owners love
- Smartwatch extras in a slim band
Wirecutter highlights built-in GPS, Google Maps, Google Wallet tap-to-pay and YouTube Music, plus a haptic side button that makes navigation easier than the touchscreen.
Source: Wirecutter (fitness trackers) - Good heart-rate readings in some tests
Wirecutter measured heart rate within 2 bpm of a chest strap, and Android Central found it tracked a chest strap more closely than the Forerunner 165 on runs. It can also send heart rate to apps such as Peloton.
- Multi-day battery
Wirecutter got 5.5 days with regular GPS workouts (7 days rated). TechRadar lists decent battery life as a pro.
- You need reliable built-in GPS for runs
- You want a large, easy-to-read screen
- You don't want a Google account or subscription upsells
- A slim band with some smartwatch extras (Wallet, Maps)
- Sending heart rate to gym equipment
- About a week between charges
Scores (tap for why)
What experts say
- Wirecutter (NYT): Runner-up, best for built-in GPS (updated 2026-10-01). The flaws are GPS connection problems and reports of flimsy band attachments; its distance tracking trailed the other picks.
- TechRadar: 'Fun but flawed': great for casual tracking, but the cons are severely flaky GPS, no altimeter and so-so heart-rate accuracy. Not recommended as a full fitness watch.