The Samsung Galaxy Watch 7 is generally considered a capable smartwatch for runners, including those who engage in long-distance running, though it has some noted limitations primarily related to GPS accuracy and battery life under heavy GPS usage.
The Galaxy Watch 7 boasts a dual-frequency GPS module designed to improve location tracking during workouts by mitigating interference from tall buildings and trees. This is a notable improvement over previous models and enhances the watch's capability to track outdoor activities such as running. However, multiple detailed reviews and user reports indicate that while the heart rate monitoring is fairly accurate, especially compared to chest straps and other fitness bands, the GPS accuracy can be inconsistent. It tends to show some wobble in tracking the running path and can overestimate distances by about 200 to 300 meters over 10 kilometers. This discrepancy can lead to misjudgments in pace and distance for runners who rely heavily on precise GPS data for training and racing. Such inaccuracies add up over time and may affect training effectiveness for serious athletes.
In terms of heart rate tracking during runs, the Samsung Galaxy Watch 7 performs reasonably well. It has shown good consistency with reference devices in testing environments, though it may occasionally struggle during high-intensity interval peaks or cooldown phases. The watch also provides additional running metrics such as cadence and ground contact time, which can be useful for analyzing running form. However, for extremely precise biomechanical data, external hardware like dedicated running sensors is recommended, and these external devices often cannot be directly connected to the Galaxy Watch 7 or Samsung Health app, which limits integration.
The Galaxy Watch 7 is water-resistant with an IP68 and 5ATM rating, allowing it to withstand sweat and rain during runs, and it meets MIL-STD-810H standards, ensuring durability against environmental stressors like temperature fluctuations and shocks. This makes it robust enough for most outdoor running conditions, though it is not as rugged as Samsung's Ultra model, which is designed for extreme sports and more demanding environments.
Battery life is a critical factor for long-distance runners, especially those undertaking ultramarathons or extended trail runs. The Galaxy Watch 7 has a battery capacity of 425mAh for the 44mm version and 300mAh for the smaller 40mm size. Typical battery life with moderate use is around 1.5 to 2 days, but heavy GPS usage during workouts significantly drains the battery. Tests indicate the watch can burn approximately 8-11% battery per hour of GPS use, translating to roughly 8-11 hours of continuous GPS tracking. However, this can vary, with some instances showing higher battery consumption, which might affect endurance during very long runs without recharging opportunities. Battery life can be slightly extended by disabling the always-on display and other battery-intensive features. Despite some firmware updates, occasional battery drain issues persist, sometimes caused by the GPS not properly shutting off after workouts.
The watch supports over 100 workout types and provides auto-tracking of activities, which can be useful for runners who want to monitor all physical activity automatically. However, the auto-tracking feature can sometimes fragment workouts, splitting a run into segments when encountering pauses such as traffic lights, which can clutter training data in the Samsung Health app. For training purposes, manual control of workout sessions might be preferred for more accurate data compilation.
The running experience is enhanced by the Wear OS 5 platform, which brings a responsive interface and access to a variety of fitness apps. The Galaxy Watch 7's improved processor contributes to smoother performance and better power efficiency compared to its predecessor, the Galaxy Watch 6, although real-world battery life gains are minimal.
While the Galaxy Watch 7 performs well enough for most casual and intermediate runners, who will appreciate its heart rate accuracy, basic GPS tracking, and broad fitness features, it might fall short for highly competitive or elite long-distance runners who require precise GPS data and extended battery endurance. For those users, options like the Galaxy Watch Ultra or dedicated GPS running watches from brands like Garmin may offer better performance, particularly in terms of GPS accuracy and battery life.
In summary, the Galaxy Watch 7 provides reliable heart rate tracking for running activities and introduces improved GPS capabilities compared to previous generations, but with some persistent accuracy and battery life limitations that long-distance runners should consider when selecting a smartwatch for their training and racing needs. The watch is best suited for runners who value a balance of smart features, daily activity tracking, and moderate sports tracking without the highest demands on GPS precision or battery endurance.
This evaluation is based on product reviews, user feedback from forums, and detailed testing by expert reviewers conducted during 2024 and early 2025.