Why The TomTom Spark 3 is the Best GPS Running Watch of 2017

The TomTom Spark 3 is hands down our top pick for best GPS running watch of 2017.  It has all the standard running metrics such as distance, speed, time, sleep tracking, steps, calories and active minutes plus you can set fitness goals to help you stay on track.  The waterproof watch has a number of sport modes (bike, swim, treadmill run, gym workout, indoor cycling, and more).  It also has a stopwatch option.  The one button control lets you navigate easily between screens.

In addition it has an exceptionally accurate optical heart rate monitor that plugs into numerous running apps.  It is a challenge to find an app not compatible with the TomTom Spark 3.  Heart rate data is recorded as you’re tracking but you can also choose to do heart rate zone based training.  Sessions you can choose from include: Sprint, Speed, Endure, Fat Burn, Easy or Custom zones.

One of our favorite features of this watch is it’s MP3 storage (3GB), that it plays through wireless headphones.  No more headphone cords tying you down!  Streaming music without your phone gives you freedom while running.  Simply select playlists from the settings menu on the watch and away you go.

The TomTom Spark 3 has a Route Exploration feature, that lets you upload GPS routes from various running apps and follow them from the watches extra large display. This is a useful and practical feature when you are exploring new routes.

Battery life is always a concern.  The Spark offers 3 weeks of battery without GPS and 11 hours of battery life in tracking mode, enough for a long marathon or over an hour long run everyday for a week.  Not bad at all.  When using other sensors, like the heart rate sensor, the battery will obviously be drained more quickly. 

With all the extra features of the TomTom Spark 3, the accurate heart rate sensor, detailed statistical information, and at half the price of many other running watches, the Spark easily makes it to the top of our list for best running watch of 2017.

Read:  Best GPS Running Watches For Your Budget