Garmin Forerunner 45 Vs 55: Which One Should You Buy?

Are you in search of an accurate GPS running watch that will help track your progress and meet fitness goals? Look no further than Garmin Forerunner series watches; two popular options being the Forerunner 45 and 55 models. Both watches feature accurate tracking for running and fitness activities while each offers distinct advantages that may make one suitable for you more than another. In this article we’ll compare the features and benefits of Garmin Forerunner 45 vs 55 so that you can select which Garmin Forerunner model best meets your needs.

Garmin Forerunner 45 vs 55: General Overview

The Garmin Forerunner 45 and 55 are both GPS running watches that offer advanced tracking features. The Forerunner 45 was released in 2019, while the Forerunner 55 was released in 2021. The Forerunner 55 is the successor to the Forerunner 45 and comes with several upgrades. Both models offer a range of features that cater to runners of all levels, including GPS tracking, heart rate monitoring, and customizable workout plans.

Design and Display

When it comes to design, the Forerunner 45 and 55 are similar. Both models have a round face with a 1.04-inch display and five physical buttons. The Forerunner 55 is slightly thinner and lighter than the Forerunner 45, making it more comfortable to wear. The Forerunner 55 also has a more vibrant display with a higher resolution, making it easier to read in bright sunlight.

The watch bands on both models are interchangeable, so you can switch up the look of your watch to match your style. The Forerunner 45 comes with a silicone band, while the Forerunner 55 comes with a nylon band. However, both models are compatible with other standard watch bands.

Garmin Forerunner 45

Battery Life and Charging

Battery life is an important consideration when choosing a running watch, especially if you plan to use it for long-distance runs. The Forerunner 45 has a battery life of up to seven days in smartwatch mode and up to 13 hours in GPS mode. The Forerunner 55, on the other hand, has a longer battery life of up to two weeks in smartwatch mode and up to 20 hours in GPS mode.

Both models use a proprietary charging cable that connects to the back of the watch. The charging time for both models is around two hours, so you can quickly recharge your watch before your next workout.

Garmin Forerunner 45 vs 55: GPS and Tracking Features

GPS tracking is an essential feature for runners, as it provides accurate distance and pace tracking. Both the Forerunner 45 and 55 have built-in GPS that can track your location and provide accurate distance and pace data. However, the Forerunner 55 has a more advanced GPS sensor, which provides more accurate tracking in areas with poor satellite coverage.

The Forerunner 55 also has a new feature called PacePro, which allows you to set your desired pace and receive alerts when you’re falling behind or speeding up. This feature can help you maintain a consistent pace throughout your run and achieve your goals.

Sports and Fitness Tracking Features

In addition to GPS tracking, both the Forerunner 45 and 55 offer a range of sports and fitness tracking features. Both models can track your heart rate, calories burned, and steps taken. They also have built-in activity profiles for running, cycling, swimming, and more.

The Forerunner 55 has some additional features that the Forerunner 45 does not. For example, it has advanced running dynamics, which can track your cadence, stride length, and ground contact time. It also has a new feature called “Fitness Age,” which calculates your fitness level based on your VO2 max and other factors.

Garmin Forerunner 55

Health and Wellness Features

The Forerunner 45 and 55 both have features that can help you monitor your health and wellness. Both models can track your sleep, stress levels, and menstrual cycle (for female users). They also have a built-in Pulse Ox sensor, which measures your blood oxygen saturation levels.

The Forerunner 55 has some additional health features that the Forerunner 45 does not. It has a new feature called “Body Battery,” which measures your energy levels based on your heart rate variability, stress levels, and other factors. It also has a hydration tracking feature, which reminds you to drink water throughout the day.

Garmin Forerunner 45 vs 55: Smartwatch Features and Compatibility

Both the Forerunner 45 and 55 have smartwatch features that allow you to receive notifications, control your music, and check the weather. They are both compatible with Android and iOS devices, so you can easily sync your watch with your smartphone.

The Forerunner 55 has some additional smartwatch features that the Forerunner 45 does not. It has built-in Wi-Fi, which allows you to upload your workouts directly to Garmin Connect without needing to sync with your smartphone. It also has a new feature called “LiveTrack,” which allows your friends and family to track your location in real-time during your workouts.

Price and Value for Money

The Forerunner 45 is priced at around $199, while the Forerunner 55 is priced at around $299. While the Forerunner 55 is more expensive, it comes with several upgrades that may be worth the extra cost, such as longer battery life, advanced GPS tracking, and more sports and fitness tracking features.

Pros and Cons of Garmin Forerunner 45 and 55