Suunto 7

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Suunto 7: Review

“A versatile running watch with Google Wear OS integration.”

Overview


The Suunto 7 is a versatile running watch designed to bridge the gap between a sports watch and a smartwatch. This watch is known for its integration with Google Wear OS, making it a strong contender for those who want both fitness tracking and smart features.

Key Features:

  • Google Wear OS: Provides access to Google Assistant, Google Maps, and Google Pay.
  • GPS and Heart Rate Monitoring: Tracks your location and heart rate during activities.
  • Offline Maps: Allows you to explore new routes without needing a network connection.

The Suunto 7 is an ideal choice for runners who prioritize smart features and connectivity for daily use. Its integration with Google services offers convenience, making it suitable for those who want a blend of fitness and smart functionalities.

With an average review score of 68%, it's in the lowest rated 10% of similar running watches. Based on our monitoring of prices across the internet, it's currently in the most expensive 40% of running watches today.

Verdict

The consensus on the Suunto 7


The Suunto 7 offers a unique blend of smartwatch and fitness watch features, making it a versatile option for runners. Its large, bright touchscreen and Google Wear OS integration are standout features, providing access to a wide range of apps and services. However, the watch's interface can be confusing, and its battery life is relatively short, especially when using GPS. The heart rate monitor is accurate, and the watch is durable, with a design that can withstand various weather conditions. While the Suunto 7 excels in smart features, it may not be the best choice for serious athletes who need a more intuitive interface and longer battery life. Overall, the Suunto 7 is a good option for those who want a smartwatch with fitness tracking capabilities, but it may not be the best value for money for dedicated athletes. Its integration with Google services and smart features make it a versatile but somewhat niche choice.

Updates to Suunto 7


The Suunto 7 introduces Google Wear OS, a significant update from previous models. This integration brings features like Google Assistant, Google Maps, and Google Pay. The watch also offers offline maps and a high-resolution touchscreen, enhancing the user experience.

Comparable Watches




The Garmin Forerunner 945 is a good alternative for serious athletes who need more advanced fitness tracking and longer battery life. While the Suunto 7 excels in smart features and Google integration, the Forerunner 945 offers better GPS accuracy and a more intuitive interface. It also includes music playback directly from the watch, which the Suunto 7 lacks.



The Polar Vantage M2 is another strong competitor, offering excellent fitness tracking and heart rate monitoring. It lacks the smart features of the Suunto 7 but makes up for it with a more user-friendly interface and longer battery life. The Vantage M2 is a better choice for those who prioritize fitness tracking over smart functionalities.

8 Suunto 7 Pros & Cons


4 Pros

Bright, high-resolution touchscreen.
Integration with Google Wear OS for smart features.
Accurate heart rate monitoring.
Offline maps for exploring new routes.

4 Cons

Confusing interface and difficult to use.
Short battery life, especially with GPS.
Limited music playback options.
GPS accuracy could be better.

In Depth


Battery life

The Suunto 7 has a battery life of up to 48 hours in smartwatch mode and 12 hours in GPS mode. This is sufficient for recreational athletes but may not be ideal for those who need extended battery life for longer activities. The watch also features a GPS battery saver mode to extend usage. However, frequent charging is necessary, especially if using multiple apps and features.

Screen quality and brightness

The Suunto 7 features a large, bright touchscreen with a resolution of 454 x 454 pixels and a pixel density of 326 ppi (pixels per inch). The screen is easy to read in various lighting conditions, making it suitable for outdoor activities. The high-resolution display enhances the user experience, but it also contributes to the watch's shorter battery life.

Strap comfort

The Suunto 7 comes with interchangeable straps that are designed to fit various wrist sizes comfortably. The straps are easy to replace, allowing users to customize the watch to their preference. The flexible band ensures a secure fit, which is essential for accurate heart rate monitoring during activities.

Heart-rate monitor accuracy

The heart rate monitor on the Suunto 7 is accurate, providing reliable readings during both active and resting states. The watch maintains good contact with the wrist, ensuring consistent heart rate data. This feature is beneficial for runners who want to monitor their heart rate closely during workouts.

GPS accuracy

The GPS accuracy of the Suunto 7 is decent but not exceptional. During tests, the watch has shown minor discrepancies in distance tracking, especially in areas with sharp turns or steep terrain. While it is adequate for most recreational activities, serious athletes might find the GPS accuracy lacking compared to other dedicated GPS watches.

Sleep tracking

The Suunto 7 includes sleep tracking features, allowing users to monitor their sleep patterns and quality. This can be useful for those who want to optimize their recovery and overall health. The data collected can be synced with the Suunto app for detailed analysis and insights.

Virtual coach and recovery

The Suunto 7 offers features like readiness level and recovery tracking, helping users manage their training load and recovery. These features are beneficial for runners who want to optimize their performance and avoid overtraining. The watch provides insights into recovery status, making it easier to plan workouts effectively.

Who should buy the Suunto 7?


The Suunto 7 is ideal for tech-savvy runners who want a blend of fitness tracking and smart features. It's perfect for those who use Android devices and want seamless integration with Google services. Runners who enjoy exploring new routes will appreciate the offline maps and GPS tracking. The watch is also suitable for those who value a bright, high-resolution touchscreen and accurate heart rate monitoring.

Who should not buy the Suunto 7?


The Suunto 7 may not be the best choice for serious athletes who need a more intuitive interface and longer battery life. If you prioritize ease of use and extended GPS tracking, consider other models. Apple users might find better compatibility with an Apple Watch. Those who need a watch primarily for fitness tracking without extensive smart features might prefer a more dedicated sports watch.

Suunto 7: What's it good for?


The Suunto 7 is good for daily running and fitness activities, offering a range of smart features and fitness tracking capabilities. It's suitable for running, cycling, and other sports, thanks to its multi-sport mode. The watch is also great for exploring new routes with its offline maps and GPS tracking. Its integration with Google services makes it a versatile option for those who want both fitness and smart functionalities.

5 Suunto 7 FAQs


How long does the Suunto 7 battery last?

The Suunto 7 battery lasts up to 48 hours in smartwatch mode and 12 hours in GPS mode. Battery life can vary depending on usage and settings.

Is the Suunto 7 compatible with iOS devices?

Yes, the Suunto 7 is compatible with both Android and iOS devices, allowing users to stay connected regardless of their smartphone choice.

Can I use the Suunto 7 for swimming?

Yes, the Suunto 7 is waterproof up to 50 meters, making it suitable for swimming and other water activities.

Does the Suunto 7 have offline maps?

Yes, the Suunto 7 features offline maps, allowing users to explore new routes without needing a network connection.

How accurate is the GPS on the Suunto 7?

The GPS accuracy on the Suunto 7 is decent but not exceptional. It may show minor discrepancies in distance tracking, especially in areas with sharp turns or steep terrain.

Suunto 7 alternatives



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Suunto 7
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Released
Jan 2020
Jun 2016Oct 2015Feb 2015
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Battery life
Battery life
48 hours
336 hours
720 hours
168 hours
Battery life – GPS mode
Battery life – GPS mode
12 hours
18 hours
15 hours
25 hours
20 hours
Screen size
Screen size
50 mm
Weight
Weight
70 g
73 g
80 g
80 g
89 g
70 g
Height
Height
50 mm
50 mm
50 mm
50 mm
50 mm
50 mm
Resolution
Resolution
454 x 454 px
320 x 300 px
128 x 128 px
128 x 128 px
128 x 128 px
320 x 300 px
Waterproof depth
Waterproof depth
50 m
100 m
100 m
50 m
100 m
100 m
Pixel density
Pixel density
326 ppi
366 ppi
Charging time
Charging time
2 hours
Battery power
Battery power
450 mAh
Activity Tracking Features
Activity Tracking Features
Activity detectionActivity taggingDistance trackingElevation trackingGoal settingPace measurementRoute uploadsSteps trackingSwim stroke counterSwim stroke recognition
Activity taggingDistance trackingElevation trackingGoal settingPace measurementRoute uploadsSteps trackingTrackback modeActivity taggingDistance trackingElevation trackingGoal settingPace measurementRoute uploadsSteps trackingTrackback modeActivity taggingDistance trackingElevation trackingGoal settingPace measurementRoute uploadsSteps trackingSwim stroke counterSwim stroke recognitionTrackback modeActivity taggingDistance trackingElevation trackingGoal settingPace measurementRoute uploadsSteps trackingSwim stroke counterSwim stroke recognitionTrackback modeActivity taggingDistance trackingElevation trackingPace measurementRoute uploadsSteps trackingSwim stroke counter
Connectivity Types
Connectivity Types
Cloud syncingNFCWi-FiWireless syncing
Cloud syncingWireless syncingANT+Cloud syncingWireless syncingCloud syncingWireless syncingANT+Cloud syncingWireless syncing
Sensors
Sensors
AccelerometerBarometerCadence sensorCompassGalileoGPSHeart rate monitor
AccelerometerBarometerCompassGPSAccelerometerBarometerBody temperature sensorCompassGPSGyroscope3D compassAccelerometerCompassGPS3D compassAccelerometerBarometerBody temperature sensorCadence sensorCompassGPSHeart rate monitorAccelerometerCadence sensorCompassGPS
Alerts
Alerts
Inactivity alertsSilent alarmVibrating alerts
Silent alarmSmart alarmThunderstorm warningsVibrating alertsSilent alarmThunderstorm warningsVibrating alerts
Thunderstorm warningsInactivity alertsVibrating alerts
Screen features
Screen features
Damage resistant glassOLED/AMOLED displayTouch screen
Sapphire glassTouch screenAlways-on display
Always-on displayTouch screen
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Suunto 7: what the experts say (2 reviews)

Suunto 7: 4 Expert video reviews

Suunto 7: 5 Manufacturer videos

Suunto 7 characteristics and specifications

Specificationsvs Average
Model
7
Released
Jan 2020
Battery
Battery power
450 mAh
Charging time
2 hours
Battery life – GPS mode
12 hours
Battery life
48 hours
Measurements
Volume
38 cm³
Strap width
24 mm
Width
50 mm
Height
50 mm
Thickness
15 mm
Weight
70 g
Temperature
Min. temperature
-20 °C
Max. temperature
50 °C
Waterproofing
Waterproof depth
50 m
Screen
Pixel density
326 ppi
Resolution
454 x 454 px
Screen size
50 mm

Evolution of the Suunto product family

AuthorTom Green
Tom is the founder of geerly. Based in West London, he found his passion for running in his mid-30s. He’s best at longer distances, and is a regular at the London Marathon, where he's edging closer to sub-2.40. He started geerly because he found it frustrating when shopping for running shoes spending ages trying to find the best deal in his size, and wading through verbose, waffling reviews clearly designed to appeal to search engines rather than be helpful to users. For geerly he's passionate about writing reviews that get straight to the point, and helping runners find the right gear at the best price.
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Tom Green
October 17, 2024 at 9:55 AM
Gunnersbury parkrun #230 (my #3️⃣4️⃣)
📊 Stats by geerly 👟 🕒 Official time: 00:22:45 | Course PB 🚨 🏁 Overall position: 35/549 🚹 Gender position: 21/299 🎯 Age grade: 61%