Regular smartwatches are great, but for the real world – military, police, or outdoor adventures – you need something more. That’s where tactical smartwatches come in. These watches are extra tough and can handle anything you throw at them, like water, falls, and extreme temperatures.
We’ve reviewed the top 5 tactical smartwatches of 2024 to help you find the perfect one for your next adventure:
Ready to find your perfect tactical smart watch match? Let’s dive in!
Top 5 Tactical Smart Watches
| Smartwatch Model | Features | Battery Life (Smartwatch Mode) | Specialized Functions | Price |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Garmin tactix 7 Pro | Solar charging, GPS, rugged design | Unlimited with solar charging | Jumpmaster mode, waypoint projection | Check Price |
| Garmin Instinct 2 Solar | Solar charging, multi-GNSS support, Tracback routing | Unlimited with solar charging | Built-in sports apps, health monitoring | Check Price |
| Garmin Fenix 7 Pro Sapphire Solar | Multisport GPS Tactical Smartwatch, Built-in Flashlight, Solar Charging Capability | Up to 22 days battery life in smartwatch mode using solar energy | 24/7 monitoring of HRV status and Pulse Ox (altitude acclimation) Advanced sleep monitoring | Check Price |
| Polar Grit X Pro | Military-grade construction, advanced GPS features | Up to 40 hours | GPS tracking, health monitoring | Check Price |
| Amazfit T-Rex 2 | Rugged design, compass, barometer, altimeter | Up to 24 days | Military-grade durability | Check Price |
How to Choose Best Tactical Smartwatch (Buying Guide)
Tactical smartwatches are designed for military and law enforcement personnel, as well as outdoor enthusiasts who need a rugged and reliable timepiece. They offer a variety of features that can be helpful in the field, such as GPS navigation, heart rate monitoring, and weather tracking.
Here are some things to consider when buying a tactical smartwatch:
Durability: A tactical smartwatch needs to be able to withstand harsh conditions, such as extreme temperatures, water, and drops. Look for a watch with a durable case and a scratch-resistant screen.
Battery life: Tactical smartwatches often need to be used for long periods without being charged. Look for a watch with a long battery life or one that can be charged using solar power.
Features: Consider the features that are most important to you. Some common features of tactical smartwatches include:
- GPS navigation: This allows you to track your location and find your way around, even in unfamiliar territory.
- Night vision compatibility: This allows you to use the watch in low-light conditions without compromising your night vision.
- Barometer: This can be used to measure air pressure, which can help predict weather changes.
- Heart rate monitoring: This can be used to track your fitness level and stress levels.
- Blood oxygen monitoring: This can be used to measure the amount of oxygen in your blood, which can help monitor altitude sickness.
- Stealth mode: This allows you to turn off the display and disable certain features to avoid detection.
Price: Tactical smartwatches can range in price from around $100 to $500 or more. Consider your budget and the features that are most important to you when making your decision.
Here are our top picks for tactical smartwatches that we recommend to you:
1. Garmin Tactix 7 Pro
Specifications of the Garmin tactix 7 Pro
| Specification | Details |
|---|---|
| Design | Military-inspired design |
| Rugged construction with black DLC-coated steel bezel and black PVD-coated steel rear cover | |
| Always-on 1.4-inch solar-powered display | |
| Sapphire lens for durability | |
| Traditional button controls and touchscreen display | |
| Features | Jumpmaster mode |
| Waypoint projection | |
| Stealth mode | |
| Dual-position format | |
| Preloaded tactical activity | |
| Kill switch to erase user data and location | |
| Advanced navigation capabilities with preloaded TopoActive and ski maps, navigation sensors, multi-GNSS and multi-band support | |
| Training and performance metrics with more than 30 built-in sports apps, endurance and stamina tracking, performance metrics | |
| Connectivity | Bluetooth connectivity |
| USB connection for charging and data transfer | |
| Health and Wellness Monitoring | Comprehensive health and wellness monitoring when paired with compatible smartphone |
| Smart notifications for calls, messages, and alerts | |
| Garmin Pay contactless payments (with supported country and payment network) | |
| Battery Life | Up to 37 days of battery life when solar charging (assumes all-day wear with 3 hours per day outside in 50,000 lux conditions) in smartwatch mode |
| Compatibility | Compatible with iOS, Android, and Windows smartphones |
| Dimensions | Screen Size: 1.4 Inches |
| Mounting Type: Wrist Mount | |
| Sport | Exercise & Fitness |
| Camping & Hiking | |
| Outdoor Lifestyle | |
| Price and Availability | Check Price |
| Available on Amazon and other select retailers |
The Garmin Tactix 7 Pro is more than just a smartwatch; it’s a ruggedized tactical tool designed to withstand the harshest conditions. Built for Special Forces, military personnel, and outdoor enthusiasts, this watch combines premium features with durability to provide vital information while on the move.
With a rugged design that meets military standards (MIL-STD 810), the tactix 7 Pro is tough enough to handle extreme temperatures, shock, and water immersion. Whether you’re on a mission or exploring the great outdoors, this watch can keep up with your active lifestyle.
One of the standout features of the tactix 7 Pro is its multi-GNSS satellite reference and ABC sensors. It allows you to navigate with precision using GPS, GLONASS, and Galileo satellites, while the altimeter, barometer, and electronic compass provide essential information about your surroundings.
But the Garmin tactix 7 Pro isn’t just about navigation; it’s also a powerful fitness tracker. With Elevate wrist heart rate technology, you can monitor your heart rate 24/7, track your activity levels, and analyze your sleep patterns. Plus, with pre-loaded activity profiles for various sports and outdoor activities, you can keep track of your workouts with ease.
And thanks to its solar charging capability, the tactix 7 Pro offers impressive battery life. With up to 37 days in Smart Watch mode and up to 122 hours in GPS mode, you can stay connected and informed for longer, even when you’re off the grid.
In addition to its rugged design and advanced features, the Garmin tactix 7 Pro also offers convenience and connectivity. With smart notifications, you can receive alerts for calls, texts, and emails right on your wrist. And with Garmin Pay, you can make contactless payments on the go, so you never have to worry about carrying cash or cards again.
In summary, the Garmin tactix7 Pro is the ultimate tactical smartwatch for those who demand the best. With its rugged design, advanced features, and long battery life, it’s the perfect companion for any mission or adventure.
Garmin tactix 7 Best Values
2. Garmin Instinct 2 Solar
Specifications of the Garmin Instinct 2 Solar
| Specification | Details |
|---|---|
| Design | Rugged GPS smartwatch |
| Fiber-reinforced polymer case | |
| Scratch-resistant Corning Gorilla glass | |
| Screen Size | 1.27 Inches |
| Features | Solar charging for unlimited battery life in smartwatch mode (assumes 3 hours per day outside in 50,000 lux conditions) |
| Built-in sports apps for running, biking, swimming, strength training, and more | |
| VO2 Max and other training features | |
| Smart notifications and Connect IQ compatibility | |
| 3-axis compass and barometric altimeter | |
| Multiple global navigation satellite systems (GPS, GLONASS, Galileo) | |
| Health Monitoring | All-day health monitoring features: heart rate, sleep, Pulse Ox, respiration, etc. |
| Pulse Ox not available in all countries | |
| Battery Life | Unlimited with solar charging in 3 hours of direct sunlight (50,000 lux) per day |
| GPS Mode | Up to 48 hours with continuous solar charging in direct sunlight (50,000 lux) |
| Connectivity | Bluetooth |
| USB | |
| Sport | Training |
| Exercise & Fitness | |
| Camping & Hiking | |
| Swimming | |
| Water-rated | Up to 100 meters water resistant |
| Price and Availability | Check Price |
| Available on Amazon and other select retailers |
The Garmin Instinct 2 Solar is a Tactical Smart Watch designed for outdoor enthusiasts who demand durability and reliability. With its solar charging capability and water resistance of up to 100 meters, this watch is built to withstand even the most extreme conditions.
One of the standout features of the Instinct 2 Solar is its built-in activity profiles, which allow you to track a wide range of sports and outdoor activities. Whether you’re running, cycling, swimming, or hiking, this watch can keep up with your active lifestyle.
But the Instinct 2 Solar isn’t just about fitness tracking; it’s also a powerful health monitor. With 24/7 heart rate monitoring, sleep tracking, and stress tracking, you can keep tabs on your health and wellness around the clock.
And with its long battery life, the Instinct 2 Solar can keep up with your adventures. With up to 54 days in smartwatch mode and up to 30 hours in GPS mode, you can stay connected and informed for longer without worrying about running out of power.
In addition to its durability and reliability, the Instinct 2 Solar also offers convenience and connectivity. With smart notifications, you can stay connected to your smartphone, even when you’re on the move. With compatibility with iOS, Android, and Windows smartphones, you can sync your data and stay connected to your favourite apps.
Overall, the Garmin Instinct 2 Solar is a top choice for outdoor enthusiasts who demand durability, reliability, and performance. With its rugged design, advanced features, and long battery life, it’s the perfect companion for any outdoor adventure.
Garmin Instinct 2 Solar Affordable Solar Tactical Watch
3. Garmin Fenix 7 Pro Sapphire Solar
Specifications of the Garmin Fenix 7 Pro Sapphire Solar
| Specification | Details |
|---|---|
| Display | 1.3-inch display in a 47 mm fiber-reinforced polymer case with titanium bezel and rear cover |
| Case Material | Fiber-reinforced polymer case with titanium bezel and rear cover |
| Lens Material | Scratch-resistant Power Sapphire solar charging lens |
| GPS and GLONASS | Built-in for accurate positioning in challenging environments |
| Construction | Military-grade, rugged design |
| Training Data Tracking | Heart rate monitoring, distance tracking, calorie burn estimation |
| Battery Life | Up to 40 hours of training with GPS and HR, up to 100 hours with power-saving options |
| LED Flashlight | Built-in with variable intensities and strobe modes |
| Health Monitoring | 24/7 monitoring of HRV status, Pulse Ox, and advanced sleep tracking |
| Smartphone Compatibility | Compatible with iOS and Android smartphones for smart notifications and data syncing |
| Solar Charging Capability | Scratch-resistant Power Sapphire lens for weeks of battery life in smartwatch mode |
| Water Resistance | Up to 100 meters |
| Color Options | Carbon Gray DLC Titanium with Black Band |
| Availability | Available at a lower price on Amazon and other Sellers |
The Garmin Fenix 7 Pro Sapphire Solar is a tough GPS smartwatch made for people who love adventures and want a watch that can keep up. It’s super strong and has lots of cool features to help you out, whether you’re running, biking, or hiking.
One of the best things about this watch is its built-in GPS and GLONASS, which help you find your way quickly and accurately, even in tricky places like forests or cities.
But it’s not just about finding your way – this watch also helps you train better. It keeps track of things like your heart rate, how far you’ve gone, and how many calories you’ve burned, so you can see how well you’re doing and improve your workouts.
And don’t worry about the battery dying on you in the middle of your adventures – this watch can last up to 40 hours with GPS and heart rate tracking, and even longer with some power-saving tricks.
Plus, it’s really handy because it can connect to your smartphone and show you notifications, so you’re always in the loop, even when you’re on the go.
In short, if you’re someone who loves outdoor fun and wants a reliable and super cool watch, the Garmin Fenix 7 Pro Sapphire Solar is the one for you!
Garmin Fenix 7 Pro Sapphire Solar Best Multisport GPS Smartwatch
Read Full Review
4. Amazfit T-Rex 2
Amazfit T-Rex 2 Tactical Smart Watch Specification
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Brand | Amazfit |
| Model Name | T-Rex 2 |
| Style | Rugged |
| Color | Astro Black & Gold |
| Screen Size | 1.39 Inches |
| Special Feature | GPS, Heart Rate Monitoring, VO2 Monitoring, SPO2 Monitoring, Pacer, Altitude, Sleep Monitoring |
| Shape | Round |
| Target Audience | Men |
| Age Range | Adult |
| Compatible Devices | Android 7.0 and above, iOS 12.0 and above |
| Display | 1.39” HD AMOLED always-on display |
| Durability | Passed 15 Military-standard Tests (MIL-STD-810G) |
| Navigation | Dual-band positioning support for 6 satellite positioning systems |
| Built-in compass and barometric altimeter | |
| Sports Modes | Over 150 sports modes including Triathlon, Track Run, Golf Swing, etc. |
| Water Resistance | 10 ATM water resistant, suitable for swimming, snorkeling, etc. |
| Battery Life | Up to 24 days with typical usage, up to 45 days on Battery Saver Mode |
| Health Metrics | One-tap measurement of heart rate, blood-oxygen saturation, stress level, and breathing rate |
| App Integration | Sync data with Zepp OS APP and other health and fitness apps |
| Price | Check Price on Amazon |
The Amazfit T-Rex 2 is a rugged GPS smartwatch designed for adventurers who demand durability and reliability. With its military-grade construction and advanced features, this watch is built to handle whatever you throw at it, whether you’re running, cycling, or hiking.
One of the standout features of the T-Rex 2 is its always-on HD AMOLED display, which provides excellent visibility in any lighting conditions. Whether you’re out in the bright sunlight or navigating in the dark, this watch can keep you on track with ease.
But the T-Rex 2 isn’t just about navigation; it’s also a powerful training tool. With advanced training data tracking, including heart rate monitoring, distance tracking, and calorie burn estimation, you can analyze your performance and optimize your workouts for better results.
And with its long battery life, the T-Rex 2 can keep up with your adventures. With up to 24 days of regular usage, you can stay connected and informed for longer without worrying about running out of power.
In addition to its durability and reliability, the T-Rex 2 also offers convenience and connectivity. With smart notifications, you can stay connected to your smartphone, even when you’re on the move. And with compatibility with iOS and Android smartphones, you can sync your data and stay connected to your favourite apps.
Overall, the Amazfit T-Rex 2 is a top choice for adventurers who demand durability, reliability, and performance. With its rugged design, advanced features, and long battery life, it’s the perfect companion for any outdoor adventure.
Amazfit T-Rex 2
Read Review :- Amazfit T-Rex 2 Smart Watch Review
5. Polar Grit X Pro
Key features of the Polar Grit X Pro GPS Multisport Tactical Smartwatch
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Design | Scratch-resistant sapphire glass |
| Durable FKM wristbands | |
| MIL-STD-810G premium design | |
| Performance | Up to 40 hours of training with full GPS and heart rate tracking |
| Extendable up to 100 hours with power-saving options | |
| Up to 7 days in watch mode with continuous heart rate tracking | |
| Accuracy | Wrist-based heart rate monitoring |
| Built-in GPS with assisted-GPS for precise location tracking | |
| Navigation | Turn-by-turn guidance powered by Komoot |
| Recovery Monitoring | Fully automatic and intelligent overnight recovery measurement |
| Water Resistance | Up to 100 meters water resistance |
| Compatibility | Smartphone connectivity for extended functionality and data syncing |
| Available Colors | Black, Arctic Gold, Black/Red – Titan, Mossy Oak Bottomland, Mossy Oak Country DNA, Nordic Copper |
| Price | Check Price on Amazon |
The Polar Grit X Pro is a rugged GPS smartwatch designed for adventurers who demand performance and reliability. With its military-grade construction and advanced features, this watch is built to handle whatever you throw at it, whether you’re running, cycling, or hiking.
One of the standout features of the Grit X Pro is its built-in GPS and GLONASS, which provide fast and accurate positioning, even in challenging environments. Whether you’re navigating through dense forests or urban canyons, this watch can keep you on track with precision.
But the Grit X Pro isn’t just about navigation; it’s also a powerful training tool. With advanced training data tracking, including heart rate monitoring, distance tracking, and calorie burn estimation, you can analyze your performance and optimize your workouts for better results.
And with its long battery life, the Grit X Pro can keep up with your adventures. With up to 40 hours of training with GPS and HR and up to 100 hours with power-saving options, you can stay connected and informed for longer without worrying about running out of power.
In addition to its performance and reliability, the Grit X Pro also offers convenience and connectivity. With smart notifications, you can stay connected to your smartphone, even when you’re on the move. And with compatibility with iOS and Android smartphones, you can sync your data and stay connected to your favourite apps.
Overall, the Polar Grit X Pro is a top choice for adventurers who demand the best. With its rugged design, advanced features, and long battery life, it’s the perfect companion for any outdoor adventure.
Polar Grit X Pro – GPS Multisport Smartwatch
Conclusion
In conclusion, whether you’re a soldier, law enforcement officer, outdoor enthusiast, or tactical enthusiast, there’s a perfect smartwatch for you on this list. Each of these watches offers durability, reliability, and performance, along with advanced features to keep you connected and informed on your adventures.
So don’t settle for a basic smartwatch that can’t keep up with your lifestyle. Invest in a tactical smartwatch and take your adventures to the next level.
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