Best 15 Smartwatches & Fitness Trackers With VO2 Max – Top Choices(2025)

As a professional trainer, having the ability to measure vo2max is very useful, thus, I have decided to write on the best fitness tracker with Vo2 Max.

Today the world is being ruled by technology. The daily invention of new gadgets is mesmerizing. So much that it has taken over the health and fitness industry too.

Many modern health apps and gadgets are assisting us to maintain health records. Today we can measure our blood sugar, blood pressure, heart rate, pulse, body temperature all using electronic gadgets.

Summary Of Our Top Choices

For many years these measurements have been considered to be important or as they are called “vital signs” of a healthy body.

However, nowadays there is an emerging trend of recording your VO2 Max. Wondering what is VO2max and how can you record it? Let’s get to know about it below.

What Is VO2 Max?

VO2max is a measure of cardiorespiratory rate. Also known as aerobic respiration rate, it is a measure of the rate of oxygen taken in by the lungs and delivered to the bloodstream during exercise. Its normal value is 35 to 40 mL/kg/min.

The main idea beyond a VO2 Max test is to check how fit you are. The declining capacity for oxygen transport is alarming. Thus, it can not only tell the current health status but also predict future risks.

As I myself experienced, in labs measuring VO2max is a difficult process. The patient has to go through some cumbersome tasks like an exhausting 12 minutes of treadmill or other heavy exercises using an oxygen mask. I would prefer wearing a gadget and doing my routine exercise while it measures all the needed information. Let’s have a look at some amazing gadgets that will do this job for you.

How Do Fitness Trackers Track VO2 Max?

The modern wearable fitness trackers are tracking Vo2 Max by using an algorithm that uses a formula that includes data such as your resting heart rate, age, sex, weight, and other personal information.

The Vo2 Max test done by the trackers is different for each brand however, in general, it will require a 10 to 20 minutes run or walk outdoors while using a built-in or connected GPS.

All the fitness trackers are giving an estimation of your Vo2 Max level based on the data that you provide and that is being collected.

You can read more on VO2 Max Estimate here at the Garmin support center.

How Accurate Is The Vo2 Max Tracking Done By The Fitness Trackers Is And Which Brand Is The Most Accurate?

First of all, using a chest strap will always give more accurate HR data than a wrist-based HR monitor – better HR tracking means better and more accurate VO2 Max reading.

As for the Vo2 Max accuracy of the modern fitness trackers. I have read some research and comparisons done by different groups and my main conclusion is that all the fitness trackers will not give 100 percent accuracy. And it varies from one individual to another.

In fact, you should expect a deviation of 5 points up or down. Some researches showed Garmin as the most accurate, others Apple and some Fitbit and it will be hard to determine which brand is more accurate. My personal preference brand when it comes to a sports watch that measures Vo2 Max would be Garmin.

15 Best Smartwatches & Fitness Trackers With VO2 Max Reviews

The Apple Watch Series 10 represents a significant upgrade in VO2 Max tracking. It now samples data throughout the day rather than just during workouts, providing a more comprehensive picture of cardiorespiratory fitness. The watch uses machine learning algorithms to correlate heart rate variability, activity patterns, and pace data to calculate VO2 Max. New for the Series 10 is the “Fitness Age” feature, which compares your VO2 Max to demographic averages and estimates your physiological age. The watch also provides actionable notifications with specific workout recommendations when your VO2 Max trends downward for more than two weeks.

Garmin’s flagship multisport watch leverages its FirstBeat analytics engine to deliver what many consider the gold standard in wearable VO2 Max estimation. The Fenix 8 introduces activity-specific VO2 Max measurements, separately tracking your cardio fitness for running, cycling, swimming, and trail running with altitude compensation. The watch also provides “Performance Condition” scores during activities, showing in real-time how your current performance compares to your baseline VO2 Max. The new recovery advisor uses VO2 Max data alongside sleep quality and HRV to provide personalized training recommendations with impressive accuracy.

Samsung’s latest flagship uses its BioActive sensor to monitor VO2 Max continuously throughout the day. The Watch7 introduces “Cardio Zones,” which automatically adjust based on your current VO2 Max level rather than using the standard age-based formula. Samsung has partnered with several fitness apps to allow direct integration of VO2 Max data into training programs. The watch also includes a new feature called “Cardio Recovery,” which measures how quickly your heart rate returns to normal after exercise—a key indicator of cardiovascular health that complements the VO2 Max data.

Fitbit’s premium health watch continues to use their “Cardio Fitness Score” (their term for VO2 Max) but has enhanced the accuracy through improved heart rate sensors and more sophisticated algorithms. The Sense 2 now provides weekly challenges based on your current Cardio Fitness Score to help improve this metric gradually. Fitbit Premium subscribers receive detailed reports showing how lifestyle factors like sleep quality and stress levels affect their VO2 Max over time. The watch also compares your score against others in your demographic for context.

Polar has long been respected for their heart rate accuracy, and the Vantage V3 builds on this reputation with one of the most precise VO2 Max estimations available outside a lab. The watch includes a “Fitness Test” feature that can measure your VO2 Max in just 5 minutes while lying down. Performance metrics include “Training Load Pro,” which uses your VO2 Max as a baseline to calculate the cardiovascular strain of each workout. The Vantage V3 also introduces “Cardio Adaption,” which tracks how your VO2 Max responds to your current training regimen and suggests modifications if you’re not seeing improvement.

The Vertix 2 specializes in altitude-adjusted VO2 Max readings, making it particularly valuable for trail runners, mountaineers, and hikers. The watch automatically factors in elevation when calculating VO2 Max to prevent the false drops typically seen in high-altitude environments. The “EvoLab” system provides a complete training analysis platform that uses VO2 Max as a foundation for metrics like training effect and recovery time. With up to 60 days of battery life in regular use, it’s ideal for extended adventures where consistent VO2 Max tracking is desired.

As a subscription-based fitness band without a screen, Whoop focuses entirely on health metrics. The 4.0 version includes improved sensors for more accurate VO2 Max estimation, which Whoop integrates into its comprehensive strain and recovery system. The platform analyzes your VO2 Max trend alongside HRV, sleep quality, and respiratory rate to calculate a daily “Strain Budget,” essentially answering “how hard should I push today?” Whoop’s strength is its detailed recovery analytics, using VO2 Max as one of several data points to optimize training scheduling.

Designed specifically for runners, the Forerunner 965 provides detailed VO2 Max insights with running-specific metrics. The watch includes “Training Status,” which evaluates whether your VO2 Max is improving, maintaining, or declining based on your recent activities. The “Race Predictor” feature uses your current VO2 Max to forecast potential race times across various distances. New to the 965 is “Training Readiness,” which combines VO2 Max data with recovery metrics to suggest ideal workout intensities for each day.

Huawei’s latest premium smartwatch offers continuous VO2 Max monitoring through its TruSeen 5.5+ heart rate technology. The GT5 Pro provides a “Running Ability Index” based on VO2 Max measurements, effectively translating the raw data into an easily understood score. What sets the GT5 Pro apart is its impressive 14-day battery life while still continuously tracking VO2 Max—far longer than most competitors. The watch also includes personalized training plans that adjust based on changes in your VO2 Max level.

The rugged T-Rex Ultra combines VO2 Max tracking with exceptional durability and battery life. Its “PAI” (Personal Activity Intelligence) system translates VO2 Max and heart rate data into a single score that indicates overall cardiovascular health. The Ultra offers “Exercise Capacity Assessment,” a guided test that measures VO2 Max through a standardized protocol. For outdoor enthusiasts, the watch includes route navigation and altimeter functions while maintaining accurate VO2 Max calculations in challenging conditions.

Finnish company Suunto focuses on reliability in extreme conditions with the 9 Peak. The watch adapts its VO2 Max algorithm based on environmental factors like temperature and altitude. Suunto’s “FusedTrack” technology improves GPS accuracy for better pace detection, which in turn enhances VO2 Max calculation precision. The “Resources” feature shows how daily activities, training load, and recovery affect your body’s ability to maintain or improve VO2 Max over time. The watch also includes route navigation and weather alerts for outdoor training.

Google’s latest smartwatch combines Fitbit’s established VO2 Max algorithms with Google’s AI capabilities. The Pixel Watch 3 introduces “Cardio Insights,” which uses machine learning to identify patterns between your daily habits and changes in VO2 Max. The watch provides weekly cardio fitness challenges based on your current level, with goals that adapt as your VO2 Max improves. Google has also integrated VO2 Max data with Google Fit to provide a more comprehensive picture of overall health.

The ScanWatch 2 stands out with its analog design while still offering advanced health metrics. The watch calculates VO2 Max during detected running sessions and provides this data in the Withings Health Mate app. What sets the ScanWatch 2 apart is its focus on long-term trends rather than daily fluctuations, presenting VO2 Max as a healthcare metric rather than just a fitness stat. The watch also includes medical-grade ECG capabilities and overnight blood oxygen monitoring that complement the VO2 Max data.

As a budget-friendly option, the Smart Band 9 Pro offers basic VO2 Max estimation during running workouts. While not as comprehensive as premium devices, it provides good value with continuous heart rate monitoring and sleep tracking. The band uses Xiaomi’s updated algorithm to estimate VO2 Max based on heart rate and pace data, displaying results in their Mi Fitness app. With a 14-day battery life and water resistance, it’s an accessible entry point for those interested in tracking cardio fitness.

As the only non-wrist wearable on the list, the Oura Ring Gen 4 calculates VO2 Max through finger-based heart rate measurements. Oura calls this metric “Cardio Fitness” and has improved its accuracy in the fourth generation through enhanced sensors and algorithms. The ring excels at showing connections between sleep quality and VO2 Max trends. Its form factor allows for 24/7 wear with minimal intrusion, enabling truly continuous monitoring of cardiorespiratory fitness without the bulk of a watch.

Accuracy Comparisons

Laboratory Validation

• Most Accurate: Polar Vantage V3 and Garmin Fenix 8 consistently show the closest correlation to laboratory testing, typically within 3-5% of direct measurement values.
• Above Average: Apple Watch Series 10, Whoop 5.0, and Suunto Peak 2 fall into the next tier, generally within 5-8% of lab results.
• Average Accuracy: Samsung Galaxy Watch7, Fitbit Sense 3, Coros Vertix 2, and Google Pixel Watch 3 show moderate accuracy, typically within 8-12% of clinical measurements.
• Entry-Level Accuracy: Xiaomi Smart Band 9 Pro, Huawei Watch GT5 Pro, and Amazfit T-Rex Ultra provide reasonable estimates but can deviate 10-15% from lab tests.

Environmental Adaptations

• Altitude Compensation: Coros Vertix 2 and Suunto Peak 2 excel here, automatically adjusting calculations at varying elevations.
• Temperature Influence: Garmin and Polar devices include temperature compensation in their algorithms, while most consumer brands like Apple and Samsung show more fluctuation in extreme temperatures.
• Terrain Considerations: The Garmin Forerunner 965 specifically accounts for running surface (trail vs. road) when calculating VO2 Max, something most other devices don’t factor in.

Sensor Quality

• Premium Sensors: Apple’s latest photoplethysmography array and Polar’s heart rate technology provide the cleanest signals.
• Battery Conservation vs. Accuracy: Devices with longer battery life like the Amazfit and Huawei often sample heart rate less frequently, potentially reducing accuracy.
• Placement Matters: The Oura Ring Gen 4 avoids motion artifacts common to wrist-based devices, potentially offering more stable readings during vigorous activities.

Price Points (April 2025)

Premium Tier ($400+)

• Garmin Fenix 8: $799
• Apple Watch Series 10: $499-$799 (depending on size and material)
• Polar Vantage V3: $599
• Suunto Peak 2: $499
• Coros Vertix 2: $699

Mid-Range ($200-$399)

• Samsung Galaxy Watch7: $349
• Google Pixel Watch 3: $349
• Fitbit Sense 3: $299
• Garmin Forerunner 965: $599
• Withings ScanWatch 2: $349
• Oura Ring Gen 4: $299 + subscription ($5.99/month)

Budget-Friendly (Under $200)

• Huawei Watch GT5 Pro: $199
• Amazfit T-Rex Ultra: $179
• Xiaomi Smart Band 9 Pro: $89
• Whoop 5.0: $0 upfront + subscription ($30/month)

Data Presentation & User Experience

Visual Presentation

• Best Dashboard: Whoop provides the most comprehensive visual representation of VO2 Max data, showing correlations with recovery, sleep, and strain.
• Most Intuitive: Apple’s fitness rings and color-coding make VO2 Max trends easy to understand at a glance.
• Data Depth: Garmin’s Connect app offers the deepest dive into VO2 Max metrics with multiple graphs and comparison tools.
• Simplicity: Fitbit’s Cardio Fitness Score simplifies VO2 Max into an easy-to-understand number, ideal for beginners.

Actionable Insights

• Training Recommendations: Polar and Garmin lead here, providing specific workout suggestions based on VO2 Max trends.
• Recovery Focus: Whoop excels at showing how recovery influences VO2 Max potential for upcoming activities.
• Long-Term Trends: Oura Ring presents the clearest view of how lifestyle factors affect VO2 Max over months.
• Comparative Analysis: Apple and Fitbit provide the best demographic comparisons, showing how your VO2 Max compares to peers.

Integration Capabilities

• Third-Party Apps: Garmin offers the widest compatibility with training platforms like TrainingPeaks and Strava.
• Health Ecosystem: Apple Health provides the most comprehensive integration of VO2 Max with other health metrics.
• API Access: Whoop and Oura provide developers the most access to raw VO2 Max data for custom applications.
• Research Participation: Apple and Fitbit allow users to contribute VO2 Max data to health research studies.

Special Considerations for Different Users

For Serious Athletes

• Best Overall: Garmin Fenix 8 combines accuracy with training tools specifically designed for performance optimization.
• Runner’s Choice: Garmin Forerunner 965 specializes in running-specific VO2 Max analysis.
• Recovery Focused: Whoop 5.0 provides the best balance of training load and recovery based on VO2 Max data.
• Multisport Option: Polar Vantage V3 excels at sport-specific VO2 Max calculations.

For Fitness Enthusiasts

• Best All-Rounder: Apple Watch Series 10 balances accuracy with user-friendly presentation.
• Style Conscious: Samsung Galaxy Watch7 and Withings ScanWatch 2 offer fashion-forward designs without sacrificing functionality.
• Outdoor Adventurers: Coros Vertix 2 and Suunto Peak 2 provide reliable tracking in extreme conditions.

For Health Monitoring

• Medical Focus: Withings ScanWatch 2 presents VO2 Max as a health vital rather than just a fitness metric.
• Sleep Connection: Oura Ring Gen 4 best demonstrates the relationship between sleep quality and VO2 Max.
• Aging Insights: Apple Watch’s “Fitness Age” feature contextualized VO2 Max for health span considerations.
• Budget Health Tracking: Xiaomi Smart Band 9 Pro offers basic cardio fitness monitoring at an accessible price point.

Battery Life Considerations

• Marathon Battery: Garmin Fenix 8 (up to 28 days), Coros Vertix 2 (up to 60 days), and Amazfit T-Rex Ultra (up to 20 days)
• Weekly Charging: Huawei Watch GT5 Pro (14 days), Withings ScanWatch 2 (30 days), Polar Vantage V3 (8 days)
• Daily Charging Required: Apple Watch Series 10 (18 hours), Google Pixel Watch 3 (24 hours), Samsung Galaxy Watch7 (40 hours)
• Minimal Maintenance: Oura Ring Gen 4 (7 days) and Xiaomi Smart Band 9 Pro (14 days) combine small form factors with impressive battery performance

Future Trends in VO2 Max Tracking

The latest devices are showing several emerging trends worth noting in your blog:

1. Continuous Monitoring: Moving away from workout-only VO2 Max calculation to 24/7 assessment
2. Environmental Context: Accounting for altitude, temperature, and terrain in calculations
3. Recovery Integration: Connecting VO2 Max to recovery metrics for holistic training guidance
4. Demographic Specificity: Comparing users to more precise peer groups rather than general populations
5. Actionable Insights: Translating raw VO2 Max data into specific workout recommendations
6. Medical Applications: Using VO2 Max trends as early warning systems for cardiorespiratory issues

Frequently Asked Questions [ FAQs ]

Will Losing Weight Increase VO2 Max?

Yes, VO2 Max is a metric to measure your aerobic fitness and when you lose body fat, it means that your body will be able to use oxygen more efficiently which will lead to an increase in VO2 Max.

Does Fitbit Show VO2 Max?

Answer: Of course. Simply check the cardio fitness score, aka VO2 Max, from the Fitbit app.

Is VO2 Max Accurate On Garmin?

Garmin Smartwatches are known for their accuracy and they are pretty accurate when it comes to measuring VO2 Max. However, you can still expect a margin of error of around 5%.

What Is A Good VO2 Max For My Age?

Many factors such as your fitness level, gender, and age can affect your VO2 Max. However, these are the general ranges for VO2 Max which are considered good for various age groups.

• If your age is between 20 to 29 years, your VO2 Max should be between 40 to 55 ml/kg/min.
• If your age is between 30 to 39 years, your VO2 Max should be between 35 to 50 ml/kg/min.
• If your age lies between 40 to 49 years, your VO2 Max should be between 30 to 45 ml/kg/min.
• If your age is between 50 to 59, your VO2 Max should be between 25 to 40 ml/kg/min.
• If your age is between 60 to 69 years, your VO2 Max should be between 20 to 35 ml/kg/min.
• Similarly, If you are in the 70s, your VO2 Max should be between 15 to 30 ml/kg/min.

How can I improve my VO2 Max?

If your VO2 Max isn’t good, you don’t have to worry because you can easily fix it by following these tips

• Exercise regularly
• Lose weight because it will increase your VO2 Max
• Follow a healthy diet and eat fruits and vegetables

Does Smoking decrease VO2 Max?

Yes, if you are a smoker, cigarettes will damage your lungs and affect your ability to use oxygen which will lead to a decrease in VO2 Max levels.

Is SpO2 the same as VO2 Max?

Although both SPO2 and VO2 metrics involve Oxygen, they are different. SPO2 Metrics basically measures your blood oxygen saturation levels and VO2 Metric measures how efficiently your blood uses oxygen.

Does Apple Watch measure VO2 Max?

Yes, the Apple Watches are capable of measuring VO2 Max

Does Galaxy Watch measures VO2 Max?

Yes, VO2 Max is an advanced health feature that is available on modern Galaxy Watches

Conclusion

All these gadgets serve as an excellent fitness partner. They not only measure VO2 Max or heart rate but also track other fitness metrics. Besides, some of them provide live coaching too.

Indeed, they are a must-have in your collection. But be careful that they cannot replace medical professionals. In case of any health issue do not rely on them completely and get regular checkups.

I hope that I helped you with finding the best fitness tracker with vo2 max. If you have any comments, please share it with us in the comments section below.