10Best.Guide

Garmin Forerunner

Top Picks

Last Updated: September, 2023
Pros
  • Good battery life
  • Easy to read display
  • Slim design
  • Accurate GPS
  • Sets itself without a phone
Cons
  • Heart rate monitoring accuracy is hit or miss
  • Limited memory for activities/history
Bottom Line
The Garmin Forerunner 35 is a good, basic running/fitness watch with accurate GPS, good battery life, and a slim design. However, it has some limitations with heart rate monitoring accuracy and limited memory for activities/history. It is best suited for runners who prioritize accuracy and simplicity over advanced features.
Pros
  • Long battery life
  • Accurate tracking
  • Large amount of data generated
  • Great for fitness tracking
  • Good for outdoor activities
Cons
  • Screen can be hard to read in sunlight
  • Can be difficult to navigate
Bottom Line
The Garmin Vivoactive 4 is a great fitness watch with accurate tracking and a long battery life. It generates a large amount of data and is good for outdoor activities. However, the screen can be hard to read in sunlight and it can be difficult to navigate.
Pros
  • Accurate GPS tracking
  • Good for tracking fitness and workouts
  • Provides useful metrics
  • Great for multi-sport activities
  • Large screen and new software features
Cons
  • Expensive for the type of display
  • Battery life could be better
Bottom Line
The Garmin Forerunner 955 is an excellent watch for serious fitness enthusiasts and runners, providing accurate tracking and valuable insights. However, it may not be worth the high price tag for some buyers, and there are some issues with battery life and controls.
Pros
  • Long battery life
  • Durable
  • Good for outdoor activities
  • Viewable at all times
  • Helpful notifications
Cons
  • Useless heart rate monitor
  • Confusing button functions
Bottom Line
The Garmin Instinct is a durable and long-lasting smartwatch that is great for outdoor activities, but has some issues with the heart rate monitor and button functions.
Pros
  • Reliable and excellent battery life.
  • Useful preinstalled apps and GPS/activity trackers.
  • Tracks sleep, performance, miles, steps, heat, modes, etc.
  • Good for trail hiking and has a good timer.
  • Feature-rich with solid battery life and good value.
Cons
  • Not a touch screen.
  • Music component was initially meh.
Bottom Line
The Garmin Forerunner 245 is a reliable and feature-rich GPS running watch with excellent battery life and good value. It tracks various metrics and has useful preinstalled apps, but the lack of touch screen and inaccuracies with certain features may be a drawback for some users. Overall, it's a great option for runners and hikers looking for a durable and reliable watch.

The Ultimate Buying Guide for Garmin Forerunner: Find the Best GPS Running Watch for Your Needs

Overview

Garmin Forerunner is a popular brand of GPS running watches that offers a range of features for athletes and fitness enthusiasts. Whether you're a beginner or a seasoned runner, there's a Garmin Forerunner model that can help you track your progress, improve your performance, and achieve your fitness goals. In this buying guide, we'll take a closer look at the different types of Garmin Forerunner watches, key considerations when choosing a model, features that you should look for, prices, tips for using your watch effectively, and FAQs to help you make an informed decision.

Types

Garmin Forerunner offers several types of watches that cater to different needs and preferences. Here are some of the most popular types:

1. Forerunner 45/45S: This entry-level watch is perfect for beginners who want basic features like GPS tracking, heart rate monitoring, and workout tracking. It has a small and lightweight design, making it comfortable to wear all day.

2. Forerunner 245/245 Music: This mid-range watch is ideal for intermediate runners who want advanced features like VO2 max tracking, training plans, and music storage. It has a longer battery life than the Forerunner 45 and a larger display.

3. Forerunner 645/645 Music: This premium watch is designed for serious runners who want advanced metrics like running dynamics, stride length, and cadence. It also has music storage and NFC payments for added convenience.

4. Forerunner 945: This top-of-the-line watch is perfect for triathletes and ultrarunners who need advanced features like multisport tracking, mapping, and up to 36 hours of battery life in GPS mode.

Key Considerations

When choosing a Garmin Forerunner watch, there are several key considerations to keep in mind:

1. Your fitness goals: Consider what you want to achieve with your watch, whether it's tracking your runs, improving your performance, or monitoring your overall health.

2. Your budget: Garmin Forerunner watches range in price from around $150 to $600, so consider how much you're willing to spend.

3. Your preferred features: Think about which features are most important to you, such as GPS tracking, heart rate monitoring, music storage, or payment options.

4. Your wrist size: Some Garmin Forerunner watches come in different sizes, so make sure to choose one that fits comfortably on your wrist.

Features

Garmin Forerunner watches offer a range of features to help you track your workouts, monitor your health, and stay connected. Here are some of the most important features to look for:

1. GPS tracking: This feature allows you to track your runs and map your routes.

2. Heart rate monitoring: This feature measures your heart rate to help you optimize your training and monitor your overall health.

3. Workout tracking: This feature allows you to track your workouts and monitor your progress over time.

4. Music storage: This feature lets you store music on your watch and listen to it without your phone.

5. Payment options: Some Garmin Forerunner watches have NFC payments, so you can pay for things without your wallet.

6. Smartphone notifications: This feature allows you to receive calls, texts, and other notifications on your watch.

7. Health monitoring: Some Garmin Forerunner watches have features like sleep tracking, stress tracking, and menstrual cycle tracking to help you monitor your overall health.

Prices

Garmin Forerunner watches range in price from around $150 to $600, depending on the model and features. Here's a breakdown of the prices for some of the most popular models:

1. Forerunner 45/45S: $149.99

2. Forerunner 245/245 Music: $299.99/$349.99

3. Forerunner 645/645 Music: $399.99/$449.99

4. Forerunner 945: $599.99

Tips

Here are some tips for using your Garmin Forerunner watch effectively:

1. Customize your watch face: Many Garmin Forerunner watches allow you to customize your watch face with different designs and data fields.

2. Use the Garmin Connect app: The Garmin Connect app allows you to sync your watch with your phone and track your progress over time.

3. Charge your watch regularly: Make sure to charge your watch regularly to ensure that it has enough battery life for your workouts.

4. Use the right settings: Adjust the settings on your watch to optimize your battery life, GPS accuracy, and other features.

FAQs

Q: How accurate is the GPS tracking on Garmin Forerunner watches?

A: Garmin Forerunner watches use high-quality GPS sensors to provide accurate tracking of your runs and workouts.

Q: Can I swim with my Garmin Forerunner watch?

A: Some Garmin Forerunner watches are water-resistant and can be worn while swimming, but make sure to check the specifications before taking your watch in the water.

Q: How long does the battery last on Garmin Forerunner watches?

A: The battery life on Garmin Forerunner watches varies depending on the model and usage, but most watches last between 5 and 36 hours in GPS mode.

Q: Can I use my Garmin Forerunner watch for other sports besides running?

A: Many Garmin Forerunner watches offer multisport tracking, allowing you to track other activities like cycling, swimming, and hiking.

Q: How do I sync my Garmin Forerunner watch with my phone?

A: You can sync your Garmin Forerunner watch with your phone using the Garmin Connect app, which is available for iOS and Android devices.

Conclusion:

Garmin Forerunner watches offer a range of features and options for athletes and fitness enthusiasts. Whether you're a beginner or an experienced runner, there's a Garmin Forerunner model that can help you achieve your fitness goals. By considering your needs, preferences, and budget, you can choose the perfect GPS running watch for your needs and start tracking your progress today.

Runner-Ups

Pros
  • Accurate heart rate monitoring with chest strap
  • Long battery life
  • Great for tracking distance and fitness goals
  • Customizable watch faces and bands
  • Garmin Coach feature for training
Cons
  • Inconsistent heart rate monitoring without chest strap
  • GPS can be unreliable
Bottom Line
The Garmin Forerunner is a great option for those looking for accurate heart rate monitoring and fitness tracking. However, it may not be the best choice for those who need reliable GPS or consistent heart rate monitoring without a chest strap. The watch also has some issues with low light visibility and may arrive used. Overall, it is a solid choice for fitness enthusiasts.
Pros
  • Accurate GPS and heart rate monitoring
  • Fast shipping
  • Good alternative to Apple Watch
  • Perfect size and battery life
  • Great for running and other types of workouts
Cons
  • Overpriced for the software capabilities
  • Doesn't auto track workouts
Bottom Line
The Garmin Forerunner 255 is a great fitness tracker for running and other types of workouts with accurate GPS and heart rate monitoring. However, it may be overpriced for its software capabilities and has some issues with auto tracking workouts, treadmill tracking, and software.
Pros
  • Great for multi-sport activities
  • Good battery life
  • Non-touch screen is preferred by some users
  • Small and stylish design
  • Long list of features
Cons
  • Inaccurate heart rate monitoring
  • Garmin Connect app is not user-friendly
Bottom Line
The Garmin Forerunner 935 is a great option for multi-sport athletes with a long battery life and stylish design. However, the heart rate monitoring and GPS can be unreliable, and the Garmin Connect app is not user-friendly.
Pros
  • Easy to use
  • Tracks almost any kind of workout
  • Accurate GPS
  • Accurate step tracker
  • Sensitive activity and heart rate tracker
Cons
  • Inaccurate GPS tracking for loops or out and back runs
  • Poor battery life
Bottom Line
The Garmin Forerunner 45 is a great fitness tracker for those who want to track their workouts accurately and easily. However, it has some drawbacks such as inaccurate GPS tracking for certain runs, poor battery life, and dim LCD display.
Pros
  • Great battery life
  • GPS sync is fast
  • Tracks HR, steps, and sleep
  • Slim and lightweight
  • Good quality and functions well
Cons
  • Fit and finish are a step down
  • Feels cheap
Bottom Line
The Garmin Forerunner 735xt is a good watch for tracking fitness and has a great battery life. However, it may feel cheap and hard to navigate for some users. The heart rate tracking may also be inaccurate, and the backlight is not great. Overall, it is a decent option for those looking for a slim and lightweight exercise companion.
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