Garmin Forerunner 55 vs. 45 vs. 35 – Garmin’s most basic smartwatches

Currently there is a clear trend towards simplification. If there was a time when the vast majority demanded complex devices, with dozens of features at the expense of their usability, now is the time for practicality. But things do not stop there, since this practicality is accompanied by irresistible prices. In summary, this new demand has caused a new line of products, lighter, simpler and cheaper, which is not for this reason at odds with quality.

An example of all this are the watches that we present here: the Forerunner 55, the Forerunner 45 and the Forerunner 35. Three models that belong to the Garmin company and that are an excellent option for all those who want to enjoy the benefits of the American brand at a better price and in an easier way.

Let’s see what its particularities are to see which one is the best.

Garmin Forerunner 55 vs. Forerunner 45 vs. Forerunner 35 – Comparison table

In the following comparative table you can see the specifications of each of the watches. As you can see there are clear differences between each of the models. Let’s discuss everything in detail a little below.

(Slide the table to see all the content)

Forerunner Physiognomy

The first thing that catches your eye is the design of the watches.

The Forerunner 55 and 45 feature a spherical construction, giving rise to a wide screen guarded by a more dynamic design. Instead, the Forerunner 35 breaks this harmony with a boxy approach and a more classic style screen, we could say.

If we look at the weight, the differences are minimal. The Forerunner 45 is the lightest, but we’re only talking about a gram difference, so at this point we could establish a technical tie.

Taking the above as a reference, one would expect similar dimensions, but the Forerunner 35 is much smaller than the other two models. Key point if you are looking for the smallest watch.

Analyzing the lenses

The latest design of these watches is designed for sports practice. It must be emphasized that they are not smartwatches in the style of other brands such as Apple or Samsung.

This is why the resistance of the lens and the material used are of vital importance to know if the watch offers resistance to the elements.

The Forerunner 55 and 45 have a glass lens reinforced by chemical processes, which provides a plus of resistance. On the other hand, the Forerunner 35 has a simple glass screen, which can be somewhat unpleasant if it receives a direct impact. Now, if your favorite sport is going for a run, it can be a wonderful option to save you a few euros.

It’s screen time

One of the highlights of this comparison.

Although it is enough to look at the photos to make sure of the big differences, but let’s investigate a little more.

According to the specifications provided by Garmin, the Forerunner 55 and 45 models have a screen size of 1.04″, larger than the 0.93″ present in the Forerunner 35. This difference is enhanced by the design of the watches, since the Forerunner 35 has a very thick screen border.

Another related point is the resolution. Identical in the 55 and 45 models, 208 x 208 pixels and again lower in the Forerunner 35, which stays at 128 x 128 pixels.

Finally, we close this section by talking about color screens, something that seems to be mandatory for all devices on the market. However, as with the Forerunner 35, that time has not yet arrived, offering a black and white screen.

Autonomy and water resistance

This is the characteristic that unites the rest, since it is the one that allows the maximum performance of the devices. Let’s see in detail the battery life taking into account a standard use of watches.

• The Forerunner 55 has a range of up to 2 weeks. Far superior to the other two.
• The Forerunner 45 can be used continuously for 7 days. Autonomy above the average of other watches on the market.
• The Forerunner 35 offers 9 days of battery life. The big reveal.

Does turning on GPS consume more battery?

Absolutely yes, much more in fact, so it is important to know the autonomy in this situation, especially if you are a lover of long distance. The Forerunner 45 and 35, with GPS activated, can last around 13 hours, while the Forerunner 55 extends its use up to 20 hours.

Swimming with your Forerunner? 

No problem. It has a water resistance of 5 ATM (about fifty meters deep)

Sensors and monitoring. Very complete devices

It is in this aspect that it is most appreciated that we are dealing with Garmin devices.

To begin with, it must be said that the Forerunner 55 and 45 can store more than 200 hours of activity data, to the detriment of the Forerunner 35, which only has 7 activities.

With a simple glance we see how one of the main differences lies in the location systems. The Forerunner 35 has GPS only, while the Forerunner 55 and 45 add GLONASS and GALILEO.

However, all three models have a heart rate monitor and accelerometer, as well as sleep reports, which demonstrates the sophistication of these devices.

In other sensors there are differences. For example, the Forerunner 55 and 35 can track women’s health. Also the Forerunner 55 and 45 are capable of measuring stress levels. If you’re a bit lost at this point, here’s some advice: go with the Forerunner 55.

Connectivity and other features

The time has come to discover how these watches relate to the world around them.

Again, the Forerunner 55 is ahead, since it has a Bluetooth and ANT+ connection, while the other two watches have only Bluetooth.

Speaking of music, you can’t store songs on either, but you can control it from the watch, at least on the Forerunner 55 and 45. You can on the Forerunner 35, too, but only on Android devices.

This is because only the 55 and 45 models are fully compatible with Android and iPhone, as well as being the only ones to have the “find my watch” function.

Let’s present the conclusions

It is time to put our appreciation of the different Garmin watch models on the table. We hope they will help you to take home the one that best suits your needs.

It’s clear. The best watch is the Garmin Forerunner 55, as it outperforms the other models. Better autonomy, monitoring sensors… There is not much more to talk about. What’s more, if you are hesitating between 55 and 45, bet on the higher number.

Another different situation is that you practice sports casually and want to enjoy a Garmin at the best possible price, in this case, your watch is the Garmin Forerunner 35.