10 Best Heart Rate Watches 2025 in the United States

The Samsung Galaxy Watch 8 (2025) is a solid choice if you're looking for a heart-rate watch that balances fitness tracking with smart features. Its heart rate monitoring is detailed and enhanced by additional metrics like vascular load, which helps you understand stress factors beyond just exercise. The built-in GPS supports accurate tracking for runs or outdoor activities, complemented by a running coach that offers real-time feedback and training programs for different events.

Battery life is improved for day-long use, meaning you can track your activity, heart rate, and receive notifications without frequent charging. The watch features a bright, clear 1.3-inch round touchscreen that displays info cleanly and responds well to touch, making it easy to check updates at a glance. Design-wise, the Galaxy Watch 8 is lightweight and slim with a comfortable fit, so it won’t feel bulky during workouts or sleep. Its water resistance is reliable for everyday use and light swimming. Smart features like a personal AI assistant and advanced sleep coaching add extra value for those wanting more than just fitness stats.

While the battery capacity is improved, frequent use of GPS and other smart features may still require daily charging. Additionally, though the watch is lightweight, some users may find the 40mm size a bit large if they prefer smaller watches. This makes the Galaxy Watch 8 an excellent heart-rate watch option for fitness enthusiasts seeking detailed insights along with smart convenience.

The Fitbit Inspire 3 is a versatile fitness tracker designed to help you stay active and monitor your health. One of its strengths is the 24/7 heart rate monitoring, which provides constant updates on your heart health. Additionally, it features stress management tools, sleep tracking, and notifications for irregular heart rhythms, making it a comprehensive health companion. It also tracks various exercises automatically and reminds you to move, enhancing daily activity tracking.

The lightweight design and water resistance up to 50 meters mean you can wear it comfortably all day and even while swimming. The 10-day battery life is another notable strength, ensuring you don’t have to charge it frequently. The customizable color touchscreen and notifications for calls, texts, and apps keep you connected and informed throughout the day.

However, it relies on your smartphone for GPS tracking, which may be inconvenient for users who prefer standalone GPS functionality. The screen size is relatively small at 0.76 inches, which might limit the display of detailed information at a glance. Additionally, while it offers several smart features and a 6-month premium membership, these may require extra steps to fully utilize. The Fitbit Inspire 3 is a solid choice for individuals who want a user-friendly, feature-rich fitness tracker that covers essential health metrics and activity tracking without being overly complex.

The Fitbit Charge 6 Fitness Tracker is a robust choice for those seeking a comprehensive fitness and health monitoring device. One of its standout features is its heart rate monitoring, which can be linked to compatible exercise machines for real-time tracking. This makes it an excellent tool for gym enthusiasts. Additionally, it offers built-in GPS for accurate tracking of outdoor activities like running or cycling, and provides turn-by-turn directions via Google Maps, enhancing its utility for outdoor fitness activities.

The battery life is solid, lasting several days on a single charge, which means less frequent charging interruptions. Plus, it's water-resistant, making it suitable for various activities, including swimming. Smart features such as Google Wallet for contactless payments and YouTube Music controls offer added convenience, while the inclusion of a stress management score and personalized sleep tracking can help users gain deeper health insights.

The 1.04-inch display, although not the largest, is clear and functional, complemented by a user-friendly interface. Comfort-wise, the Charge 6 is light and comes with both small and large bands to fit different wrist sizes. However, some users might find the rectangular design less fashionable compared to other models. Additionally, while it offers a plethora of features, the reliance on Google apps might not appeal to everyone, particularly those who prefer other ecosystems. Despite these minor drawbacks, the Fitbit Charge 6 stands out for its extensive health tracking capabilities and smart features, making it a strong contender for anyone focused on improving their fitness and well-being.