Fitness enthusiasts no longer need to carry their phones during workouts, thanks to a growing selection of smartwatches and running watches with built-in music playback. Leading brands like Apple, Garmin, Samsung, and Google now offer seamless integration with popular streaming services, including Spotify, Apple Music, YouTube Music, and Deezer.
However, not all watches support direct streaming—some require manual MP3 uploads, while others only offer playback controls when connected to a phone. Below, we break down the best options for runners and fitness buffs who want music on the go.
Key Considerations Before Buying
Compatibility with Streaming Services
Many watches support Spotify, allowing users to download playlists for offline listening. However, a Spotify Premium subscription is typically required for offline syncing on Garmin, Samsung, Google, and Apple Watches. Always verify service compatibility before purchasing.
Music Controls vs. Standalone Playback
Most fitness watches let users control music playing on their phones, but true standalone playback requires either:
- A built-in music player (for manually uploaded MP3s)
- Third-party apps like Spotify or YouTube Music (with offline syncing)
Bluetooth headphones are essential unless the watch has a built-in speaker (e.g., Apple Watch Series 10 or Garmin Fenix 8).
Battery Life Impact
Streaming music while tracking workouts significantly drains battery life. Check manufacturer estimates for combined GPS and music playback endurance.
Top Smartwatches for Music and Fitness
Garmin Forerunner 165 Music
Storage: 4GB (~500 songs)
Supported Services: Spotify, YouTube Music, Amazon Music, Deezer, iHeartRadio (offline sync, subscriptions required)
Battery Life: 6.5–7 hours (GPS + music)
Price: $299 / £289
A budget-friendly running watch with excellent GPS accuracy and health metrics. The Forerunner 165 Music requires a $50 premium over the non-music version but delivers reliable offline playback.
Garmin Forerunner 265
Storage: 8GB (~1,000 songs)
Supported Services: Spotify, Amazon Music, Deezer, iHeartRadio
Battery Life: Varies by GPS mode
Price: $449 / £429
An upgrade from the Forerunner 255, this model doubles storage and features a vibrant AMOLED display. Ideal for multi-sport athletes with advanced metrics like VO2 Max and Training Load Analysis.
Apple Watch Series 10, Ultra 2 & SE 2
Storage: 32GB–64GB
Supported Services: Apple Music (streaming/offline), Spotify, Deezer, Pandora
Battery Life: ~3 hours (GPS + music); Ultra 2 lasts longer
Price: Starts at $249 (SE 2)
Apple’s watches excel in seamless music syncing and cellular streaming (LTE models). The Ultra 2 offers the best battery life for long workouts.
Samsung Galaxy Watch 7 & Ultra
Storage: 32GB
Supported Services: Spotify, Amazon Music, YouTube Music
Battery Life: Varies by model (Ultra lasts longest)
Price: Starts at $299
Running Wear OS, these watches support offline playlist downloads. Solid for Android users but slightly behind Garmin/Apple in GPS accuracy.
Garmin Fenix 8 (AMOLED)
Storage: 32GB (~2,000 songs)
Supported Services: Spotify, Amazon Music, YouTube Music, Deezer
Battery Life: Up to 18 hours (GPS + music)
Price: Starts at $799
A rugged, feature-packed watch with speaker playback and multi-week battery life. Best for endurance athletes who need top-tier tracking.
Google Pixel Watch 3
Storage: 32GB
Supported Services: Spotify, YouTube Music, Amazon Music
Battery Life: ~48 hours (45mm model)
Price: Starts at $349
A strong Android alternative to the Apple Watch, now with improved battery life in the larger model.
