Whether you’re an up and coming athlete, professional trainer, or gym teacher supervising your clientele—apart from running shoes—you certainly require a stopwatch to track and improve your training progress.
Apart from sports, stopwatches are also essential for other activities such as perfecting your fajita recipe (when you’re cooking!) or timing yourself during an important exam.
As such, stopwatches have undergone massive improvements to offer a wide range of new and enhanced features.
To cover these innovative changes, we will be reviewing the nine best stopwatches currently in the market. Here are the top picks from our list!
The Best Stopwatches for High-Performance Training in 2023
Marathon Adanac 3000 Digital Stopwatch Timer
“Accurate Laser-Tuning Feature”
It’s no surprise that Marathon stopwatches have withstood the test of time to become one of the most desired brands in the sports and athletics industry. Indeed, their most prized possession, the Marathon Adanac 3000 Digital Stopwatch, is an exceptional model to have as your go-to time tracker.
Not only is it compact and accurate, but also very easy to use.
Having a large display, you can clearly see the minutes, seconds, and one-hundredth seconds digits.
As such, recording lap times becomes a breeze during your practice regimen, or those of the athletes that you coach.
The additional use of the laser tuning feature makes this stopwatch accurate down to the one-hundredth second.
This large stopwatch further comes with impressive split-mode functionality to enable you to time either single or multiple events.
Add this to the freeze split feature, and you have one hell of a multipurpose stopwatch.
Other impressive features of the Adanac stopwatch include its up-to-date calendar, as well as an alarm clock to keep you on schedule!
Lastly, this particular timepiece is designed to be sturdy and water-resistant, even in the wettest of environments.
Pros
- Easy to use, accurate, and reliable for just about any training activity
- With its compact and lightweight design, you can carry and use this stopwatch
- For any particular event.
Cons
- Unfortunately, this stopwatch does not come with a countdown timer.
Travelwey Digital Stopwatch
“Versatile Stopwatch For Multiple Activites”
An exquisite timepiece from Travelwey, the Travelwey Digital stopwatch is the quintessential sports stopwatch for refereeing, coaching, training, and wouldn’t you know, classroom activities as well!
Crafted from lightweight plastic, it is exceptionally durable and difficult to break even from high-impact falls.
The watch is also fitted with a battery that comes with a single button cell mechanism.
This means you can start, lap, or reset the watch with just one button!
While time tracking, you can pause the lap time feature and leave it operating in the background as you access other features such as the calendar or the alarm clock.
Additionally, the timepiece comes with a house chime that can be switched on and off depending on your preference.
You can also operate the stopwatch with minimal presses, making it easy for anyone to use it.
The watch also has a wrist strap for portability as you work to improve your lap time.
Pros
- The minimal presses feature makes this stopwatch very easy to use
- The stopwatch is inherently safe around children because it comes with non-removable batteries.
- A lightweight design makes it easy to carry whether you are training or timing other people as they exercise.
Cons
- There is no countdown functionality with this particular stopwatch.
ProCoach RS-013 Water Resistant Sports Stopwatch
“An Efficient And Affordable Stopwatch”
The ProCoach RS-013 Stopwatch is no doubt one of the most popular stopwatches among athletes and coaches alike.
It comes with essential features such as the one-hundredth split-second timing functionality, making it possible for you to time as many physical exercises accurately.
With three display modes, this stopwatch enables you to check your alarm clock, the date, and the time simultaneously.
Additionally, you can use this timepiece in practically any weather condition. It doesn’t matter whether it is raining or snowing, the water-resistant feature ensures the time display remains visible.
You’ll be glad to know that the Procoach RS-013 is extremely light, making it suitable for high-performance tracking of different physical activities.
For enhanced portability, the lanyard can be adjusted as a neck strap while either swimming or running.
Pros
- A lightweight design makes the stopwatch easy to carry
- The stopwatch is water-resistant
- It comes with three display modes to check the date, time, and alarm clock.
- It has a large display to view the numbers.
- It is accurate down to the one-hundredth of a second.
Cons
- Does not have a backlight hence cannot be used in dark environments.
Marathon ST083009 Adanac 4000 Digital Stopwatch
“A durable Stopwatch for Any Training Activity”
Boasting a bevy of features, the Marathon ST083009 Digital Stopwatch is one of the most eccentric stopwatches around for high-performing athletes and coaches.
It is built with an impressive time display, alarm clock, and calendar making it convenient for an athlete to manage their workout schedule.
The lanyard is crafted from robust, durable nylon to protect the stopwatch from dust and water damage.
For accurate results, this timepiece also tracks time down to the millisecond.
Large grip buttons make is easier for you to start and reset your stopwatch and access multiple functions such as timeout and automatic mode.
Pros
- A massive display that shows the minutes down to the millisecond
- Both dust and water-resistant.
- Large grip buttons for easier use.
- The presence of a split mode functionality to check different time modes like the alarm clock, the calendar, and the lap times.
- The stopwatch comes at an affordable price.
Cons
- Does not have the best display in lowly-lit environments.
ACCUSPLIT Pro Survivor-A601X Stopwatch
“A Stopwatch to Take Your Exercise Routine to The Next Level”
The ACCUSPLIT pro-survivor-A601X stopwatch is one of the most efficient stopwatches in the market and highly sought after because of its exceptional performance in the sports industry.
The watch mainly takes cumulative splits with accuracy. With over 10 different color variations to choose from, you have the freedom to express yourself entirely.
When it comes to the display, it is large enough to indicate your split time down to the millisecond.
Additionally, the shock and water resistance of this particular stopwatch makes it usable in just about any wet and humid conditions while training.
For easy use, the stopwatch has a two-button system with the right button assigned for a start and stop feature. As for the left button, it is used for the split and release function.
A high-functioning and durable battery guarantees you can use this stopwatch for up to 5 years.
Pros
- The watch comes at an affordable price without compromising certain critical features.
- A large digital display makes it possible for you to read the time easily.
- The stopwatch is both water and shock-resistant
- Has accurate switch precision for reliable readings
Cons
- No backlight so it can be challenging to read lap time in the dark or dimly lit environments.
Digital Professional Handheld Chronograph Sports Watch
“A Great Stopwatch for Personal and Professional Use!”
The Digital Professional Chronograph Sports Watch is designed conveniently for the user. Indeed, this is one of the best stopwatches for individuals that are going out for runs and need to measure their lap times effectively.
The timepiece also comes with an hourly chime, which alerts you with every distance you cover in an hour.
This chime also keeps you in check with your workout schedule so that you don’t miss out on a vital practice section.
Aside from the alarm clock feature, there is also the time display that shows tracked lap times. Lastly, we have the display mode that shows the date and time.
With its water-resistant design, you can use this stopwatch during swimming practice, or when it is raining without having concerns about any damage from water.
This stopwatch also has an adjustable time strap for you to wear around your neck or wrist when coaching or training.
Pros
- An affordable stopwatch for most consumers.
- Comes with multi-features such as an alarm clock and calendar to keep track of your workout schedule.
- A durable stopwatch that can be used for years on end.
- The neck strap can be adjusted when exercising to suit your particular routine.
- Water-resistant.
Cons
- The watch does not come with a timer function.
Champion Sports Watch
“Easy Controls for First-Time Users”
Despite not being the most attractive watch on our list, the Champions Sports stopwatch has many features to improve your training regimen.
For example, its shock and water resistance makes it convenient for use in any environment, and you don’t have to worry about the watch spoiling prematurely.
You can also choose between a 24hr or 12hr display format, making the time more comfortable for you to read.
As we have stated earlier, the stopwatch comes with multiple features such as a daily alarm clock and a calendar.
Its massive digital display enables you to track lap-time down to one-hundredth of a second.
Fewer modes also mean that you can understand the controls without having to grasp each of them manually.
Mind you, this stopwatch comes in your desired color preference.
Pros
- One of the easiest stopwatches to use on this list.
- A versatile stopwatch for tracking lap time in any weather condition.
- It comes with a large display for you to easily view all of the digits.
- Can be used as your morning alarm clock too!
Cons
- The chime setting has a continuous beep; hence can be quite distracting at times.
Ultrak 495 Memory Lap Timer
“Ideal For Recording Athlete Progress”
The Ultrak 495 memory Lap Timer stopwatch crafted by Ultrak is considered one of the most transformational stopwatches in the sports industry.
Its unique memory recall feature enables you to view your previous lap times and track your progress as you train.
For easy use and access, the stopwatch comes with a large display holding three rows teach representing different lap times.
A simple and chic design also makes it a great stopwatch to carry around. The alarm feature enables you to stick firmly to your schedule.
It can be used for up to five years thanks to its durable lithium battery.
A sturdy outer layer guarantees water resistance, meaning you can use it to train even in the wettest and chilliest climates.
Pros
- Comes with a large display and easily accessible buttons for convenience while practicing or training.
- The presence of a long-lasting lithium battery means that the watch can be used for up to five years.
- The dual split feature makes this watch a great option to track split races.
Cons
- The sequences of beeps and snaps can make the watch quite irritating and distracting when using it.
Robic Dual Stopwatch With Countdown Timer
“Handy Stopwatch For Intensive Training”
The Robic Dual Stopwatch with Countdown Timer is an amazing device to have if you plan to improve your performance when it comes to track and field. Indeed, one word that describes this stopwatch is ‘seamless.’ You will find that the commands and instructions of this particular watch are very easy to follow.
With multiple features for enhanced performance timing, you will no doubt fall in love with this great stopwatch with split time. Additionally, it has an audible alarm that alerts you as soon as the countdown is complete, enabling you to meet your set goals and objectives without feeling stressed.
Pros
- It comes with an easy-to-use interface
- It is large to ensure you can accurately read the digits on the screen.
Cons
- It’s large size can prove bulky especially if you are carrying a lot of things in your bag.
- Other essential features such as the time and date functions are missing from this particular device.
Consumer’s Guide to Purchasing Stopwatches.
Curious on how to read a stopwatch? Check out this detailed video below!about:blank
Buying the right stopwatch might be what it takes to improve your performance or the performance of an athlete that is training. Indeed, time is one of the most critical factors every champion strives to master.
That said, there are a few factors that one has to consider before buying the ideal stopwatch to suit their needs. We will discuss some of the most critical elements below:
How to choose the best stopwatch?
When it comes to purchasing the best stopwatch, there are many factors you’ll need to consider before reaching into your wallet. Indeed, our detailed consumer guide is here to help you through this journey!
For example, the kind of stopwatch you buy will vary depending on your level of profession.
If you’re a skilled athlete or coach in the big leagues, then you require a high-end stopwatch to record vital information on speed and agility.
But if you’re just volunteering for a kid’s fitness camps, or maybe open your own YouTube cooking show, then a decent cheap stopwatch with basic features is right up your alley!
You will also need to look at the subtle features of the stopwatches watch to determine whether it is worth the buy or not. For starters, is it water-resistant? How accurate is it? Can you use it to track lap times of more than one athlete simultaneously? Can you use it for different training regimens? These are some of the questions that we answer in our buyer’s guide below.
Here are 4 main features you should consider before purchasing a stopwatch:
Water Resistance
‘Water resistance’ is one of the fundamental attributes that constitutes excellence in a stopwatch. If you are a coach who specializes in swimming or winter games, you must buy a waterproof device to prevent any damages.
A water-resistant stopwatch is ordinarily resistant to wear and tear as well. As a rule of thumb, always check the stopwatch for a waterproof or water-resistant mark.
Alarm
Though an alarm is not a must-have feature when it comes to buying a stopwatch, it can be quite advantageous. Indeed, most devices come with a particular sound level for the alarm; which can then be used to monitor your schedule and check your performance.
This is handy if you want to meet your goals!
Lap Timing
It’s essential to measure how fast and quick an athlete is moving from start to finish. Such information can help you determine whether or not they are improving.
This is one of the reasons why lap timing is a very vital component when it comes to having your stopwatch. As a professional coach, it is your responsibility to produce the fastest lap times from your athletes.
Precision
Stopwatches are designed to enable you to keep time accurately. Some models can be more accurate than others, and what you choose depends on your level of profession.
For example, if you’re a coach focusing strictly on training kids or coaching for fun, then you don’t have to buy a stopwatch that counts down to the millisecond. Conversely, if you’re a professional coach working with athletes, then it’s vital to get a stopwatch that counts down to the millisecond.
Nevertheless, the most critical aspect is to always prioritize your needs before making your final purchase.
How Responsive and Easy to Use Is the Stopwatch?
What is a stopwatch? When searching for one, know that it is a device to determine lap times of athletes. As such, it is important to get one that responds to all your wants and needs. You will also need to buy a simple-to-use stopwatch which you can operate without breaking a sweat.
Indeed, most stopwatches come with a user manual that provides you with the right information on how to operate the product. P.S. Always make sure to read the manual first! ?
Secondly, the stopwatch should be comfortable either on your neck or your hand. That means that the strap should be long enough and adjustable to fit you comfortably. Ideally, it should be lightweight and function in any weather condition.
Lastly, don’t underestimate simple features like a large display and a backlight adds to the responsiveness of the stopwatch. Because at the end of the day, you want your results to be as clear and accurate as possible!
Oh and let’s also not forget that a high-performing athlete requires a stellar nutritional guide to help them reach their maximum level. So let’s eat healthy too!
Our Winner Is…
Hands down the Marathon Adanac 3000 digital stopwatch! It strikes the perfect balance between price and functionality. So that you get a stopwatch that times your laps accurately and is still pocket-friendly. Its laser-tuning feature is what makes this stopwatch a force to reckon with in high-performance sports and training.
