There are a ton of different running watches available, and your goals will determine which Garmin running smartwatch is best for you.
We have thus covered every Garmin running GPS smartwatch that a runner might desire. In order to help you make a better choice, we’re going to take you on a fast tour, going over each one as soon as we can.
Alright, we divided the timepieces into three main categories. Specialty running watches will come first, followed by outdoor running watches in the midst, and finally running watches that are more lifestyle or fitness-oriented.
We will also gradually raise the price in each of those parts. Here are a few picks we have for the top Garmin running smartwatches.
Best Garmin Running Smartwatches
First, let’s look at the expert using GPS-enabled smartwatches.
1. Garmin Forerunner 45
The Forerunner 45 and the Forerunner 45S are the two models available in the Forerunner 45 Series. With the exception of case size, these watches are the same; the Forerunner 45 has a slightly bigger case than the Forerunner 45S, which has a slightly smaller case. We’ll explore the reasoning behind this differentiation in a moment.
With integrated GPS technology, Garmin’s entry-level running watch is the Forerunner 45 Series. It also has Garmin Coach, which gives users access to training routines and other tools that are perfect for beginners anymore. Additionally, it offers estimations for race completion timings, which helps people who are running their first 5k or 10k by providing information about possible times.
With GPS turned on, the Forerunner 45 Series has an impressive battery life that can last anywhere from 7 to 13 hours, depending on the model you choose.
Are you wondering who this watch would be useful for? The Forerunner 45 Series is a great choice for you whether you’re a beginner runner or are picking up running again after a break.
With features like race time prediction and integrated training methods, the Forerunner 45 Series gives you everything you need to get started on your running journey. Its capacity to predict race times also lets you to organize your training program to achieve particular objectives.
Garmin Forerunner 45 Spec
| Feature | Description |
| Screen Dimensions | 2.63 mm (1.04′′) in diameter |
| Display resolution | 208 x 208 Pixels |
| Unique Elements | Sports apps pre-installed, security functions, heart rate monitor, music controls, smart announcements, syncing with Garmin ConnectTM, stress and monitoring of fitness |
| Water Quality Index | 5 ATM |
| Compatible Devices | Smartphone |
| Connectivity | GPS, Bluetooth |
| Capacity of Memory Storage | 1 GB |
| Accepted Applications | GPS, Activity Monitor, Heart Rate Tracker, Sleep Tracking, and Music Player |
| Features of Safety | Identification of incidents (choice of tasks) |
| Sports Apps | Cardio, yoga, elliptical, treadmill, interior track, and running |
| Life of a Battery | In GPS mode, up to 12 hours, and up to 6 days in watch mode |
| Weight | Small: 32 g Large: 36 g |
Garmin Forerunner 45 Pros and Cons
Positive:
- Precise GPS Navigation
- Dependable Heart Rate Tracking
- Cozy Style
- Integrating Garmin Connect seamlessly
- Calls, texts, and other alerts can be seen on the wrist thanks to smart notifications.
Negative:
- In some circumstances, a step tracker may register misleading steps.
- GPS Activation Delay
2. Garmin Forerunner 55
The Garmin Forerunner 55 is a clear winner when it comes to Garmin watches. With the simplicity and ease of use of this basic running watch, you can easily keep an eye on your heart rate, sleep patterns, and running metrics all from your wrist.
With built-in GPS, Garmin Coach, and race prediction tools, the Forerunner 55 is aimed towards the same entry-level or returning to running demographic. Its five-button arrangement contrasts sharply with the two-button style, indicating a minor change in form factor.
For those unfamiliar with Garmin watches, this modification can present a learning curve. The little longer battery life is another obvious change.
The Forerunner 55 has a battery life of 8 to 20 hours when the GPS is turned on.
Regarding its intended market, the Forerunner 55 is a better option than the previously mentioned Forerunner 45 Series if you’re a beginner or returning to running with goals beyond 5k or 10k races, such as aiming for a half marathon or even a full marathon.
Specifications for Garmin Forerunner 55
| Feature | Description |
| Dimensions of Display | 2.63 mm (1.04′′) in diameter |
| Resolution of Display | 208 x 208 pixels |
| Customization Options | The Connect IQ Store offers free watch faces, data fields, apps, and widgets. |
| Technology of Connectivity | Bluetooth |
| Map Type | North America |
| Water Quality Index | 5 ATM |
| Sport | Running, Cardiovascular exercise Workout & Fitness |
| Battery Life | Up to 20 hours of GPS use and up to two weeks of smartwatch use |
| Profiles of Activities | Exercises include swimming pools, Pilates, HIIT, track running, virtual running, biking, jogging, and breathing exercises. |
| Heart Rate Tracking | Yes, but not with a medical device—at the wrist. |
| GPS Monitoring | Yes |
| PacePro Function | Provides GPS-based pace assistance for a chosen distance or course (not compatible with courses that are taken on the device). |
| Training Resources | Estimates of race times, completion times, and recommended workouts |
| Innovative Wellness Elements | Minutes of intensity, age of fitness, and continuous breathing |
Garmin Forerunner 55 Pros and Cons
Positive:
- Interface that is easy to use
- Two weeks of battery life
- when using a smartwatch
- PacePro’s Feature-Rich Training Resources
- Personalization Choices
Negative:
- Restricted App
- Compatibility on Smartphones
3. Garmin Forerunner 245
The Forerunner 245 Series—which includes the Forerunner 245 and the Forerunner 245 Music—comes next. The Music version, as its name suggests, has built-in music capabilities, whilst the basic 245 does not.
A key tool for monitoring your runs and evaluating your training progress is the integrated GPS included in both versions. This GPS feature tracks your runs and provides information about how effective your training is overall.
The Training Status feature of the Forerunner 245 Series is one of its noteworthy features. In order to provide you an understanding of how effective your training is, this tool examines your running data from the previous seven days. It does this by identifying if you are training well, maintaining, or possibly overreaching or overtraining.
Furthermore, you can stream music straight from your wrist with the Forerunner 245 Music edition, doing away with the need to carry your phone while working out. For a customized listening experience, you may also sync playlists from well-known music streaming services like Spotify, Deezer, or others of your choosing.
The Forerunner 245 Series is a great option if you’re a committed runner looking for in-depth information about your training progress or if you’re just starting out and want additional feedback on your performance.
Specifications for Garmin Forerunner 245
| Feature | Description |
| Size of Display | diameter of 1.2′′ (30.4 mm) |
| Display Pixels | 240 x 240 pixels |
| Unique Aspect | Heart Rate Monitored via Wrist; Integrated GPS; Running Dynamics; Oxygen Sensor; Vo2 Max |
| Device Compatibility | Smartphone |
| GPS | Yes |
| Water Quality Index | 5 ATM |
| Training Elements | Enhanced teaching capabilities, assesses training progress, and provides performance tracking |
| Plans for Training | Customizable workouts using Garmin Connect and complimentary adaptive training plans from Garmin Coach |
| Managing Dynamics | Complex running dynamics, such as stride length, vertical ratio, and ground contact time balance, |
| Security and Monitoring | Event detection (notifies emergency contacts of location in real-time) |
| Customization Options | Connect IQ shop offers free watch faces, applications, and more. |
| Durability of Batteries | GPS mode lasts up to 24 hours, and smartwatch mode lasts up to 7 days. |
Garmin Forerunner 245 Pros and Cons
Positive:
- lightweight and uncomplicated design
- Features for fall detection and help
- Cozy, regardless of the bed
- 7 days or more of battery life when using a smartwatch
- Personalization Choices
Negative:
- It could be more accurate to track sleep.
- Triathlon mode and Garmin Pay are absent.
4. Forerunner 745
Now let’s turn our attention to the Forerunner 745, which was created with serious or experienced runners in mind. The Forerunner 745 might be the best option for you if you’re actively preparing for a particular race or are interested in metrics like VO2 max, performance condition, and load tracking.
As expected, it has an integrated GPS and has a different design factor from the watches that were previously described.
Unlike less expensive models, the Forerunner 745 has a five-button arrangement instead of the more straightforward two-button setup. It meets the needs of serious or expert runners with built-in music streaming and a long battery life of 7 to 16 hours when GPS is turned on.
This watch is designed for professionals preparing for a particular race and has sophisticated functions including load monitoring, training status evaluation, and performance condition analysis. Thus, the Forerunner 745 is a great option for you if you’re dedicated to reaching your running objectives and want thorough feedback on your training progress.
Garmin Forerunner 745 Spec
| Specification | Details |
| Display | 1.2-inch (30.4mm) |
| Resolution | 240×240-pixel |
| Display Type | Sunlight-Perceptible, Transflective Memory-In-Pixel (MIP) |
| Unique Aspect | Heart Rate Monitored via Wrist, Integrated GPS, Running Dynamics, VO2 Max, and Pulse Ox Sensor |
| Storage | 8GB Its internal storage can hold 200 hours of activity data and 500 songs. |
| Resistance to Water | 5 ATM |
| Sensors and Network Connectivity | Altimeter, barometer, compass, GPS, GLONASS, Galileo, optical HR, WiFi, Bluetooth, ANT+, and pulse oximeter |
| Battery Life | Six hours with GPS and music streaming, up to 21 hours in UltraTrac mode, 16 hours in GPS training mode, and seven days in smartwatch mode with round-the-clock HR monitoring |
| Dimensions | 43.8 x 43.8 x 13.3mm and weighs 47 grams |
| Band | 22mm silicone replaceable strap |
| Physical Size | 133 x 43.8 x 43.8 mm |
| Weight | 47g |
Forerunner 745 Pros and Cons
Positive:
- Play music straight from the watch.
- The watch keeps track of your runs.
- surprisingly pleasant and light to wear
- 6 hours of battery life when using music and GPS
- Extensive Training Measures
Negative:
- Restricted Personalization
- No touchscreen interface
5. Garmin Forerunner 945
With its superior features and performance, the Garmin Forerunner 945 is the best running watch available. Similar to its peers, it has an unusual five-button layout for simple navigation and built-in GPS capability.
Furthermore, the Forerunner 945 has integrated audio streaming features that let customers listen to their favorite songs without a phone. It stands out for having an amazing battery life—up to 10 hours when listening to music, 36 hours when using the GPS, and up to two weeks when using the device as a wristwatch. A dedicated chipset included into the watch allows for this increased battery life.
The efficiency-renowned Sony GPS chipset, which powers the Forerunner 945, improves the watch’s overall performance. Its remarkable battery life and precision in tracking outside activities are attributed to this chipset.
For those who are serious or experienced runners looking for a watch with a plethora of cutting-edge features and functionalities, the Forerunner 945 is a great option. Furthermore, this watch has strong functionality to suit your needs if you value mapping and navigation functions for your outdoor adventures.
Forerunner 945 Spec
| Feature | Description |
| Show off | 240 x 240 pixel color display measuring 1.2 inches |
| Materials | A polymer case strengthened with fiber and a stainless steel bezel |
| Weight | 50 grams |
| Profiles of Activities | profiles already installed for activities including swimming, skiing, cycling, and paddle sports. |
| Connectivity | Bluetooth Smart, ANT+, Wi-Fi |
| Heart Rate Tracking | Heart rate tracking and pulse oxygen sensor on the wrist |
| Mapping | On the wrist, heart rate monitoring and a pulse oxygen sensor |
| Connectivity of Smartphones | alerts for social media, emails, and texts when coupled with a smartphone |
| Life of a Battery | Up to 36 hours without music in GPS mode and up to 14 days in smartwatch mode |
| Storage for Music | Approximately 1000 songs |
| Water Quality Index | Watertight to a distance of 50 meters (5 ATM) |
Forerunner 945 Pros and Cons
Positive:
- Integrated Navigation and Maps
- Numerous data screens that can be customized for different sports categories
- Users can download playlists from Deezer, Spotify, and Amazon Music.
- Recovers and performs well, as measured by VO2 Max and training load
- Minimalistic Style
Negative:
- Limited Options for Replacing Batteries
- Restrictions on functionality such as regional map support or Garmin Pay
6. Garmin Instinct 2
The original Garmin Instinct thrilled us, but not everyone would like its bold, robust, and functional design. Here comes the Instinct 2, which keeps all the well-liked aspects of its predecessor, such the amazing battery life and shockproof fiber-reinforced resin casing. To accommodate smaller wrists, it now has a thinner design and is offered in two sizes, 40mm and 45mm.
As a full-featured multisport watch, the Instinct 2 has painstakingly designed tracking modes for a range of sports, with runners, bikers, and swimmers receiving special attention. Numerous cutting-edge training features are included, such as load monitoring, recovery time calculation, and exercise recommendations, to enable you to achieve the ideal balance between effort and recuperation.
For adventurers looking for toughness and dependability, the Garmin Instinct 2 is a sturdy companion, built to military standards for heat and shock resistance. Specialized measures for mountain bike activities, like “grits” and flow measurements, are among its most notable characteristics.
These measures evaluate the complexity of trails and the smoothness of descents, giving users a score to aim for and perhaps beat on future rides. The Instinct 2 is a watch to take into consideration if you’re an outdoor enthusiast looking for a durable piece of gear with features designed for strenuous activities.
Garmin Instinct 2 Spec
| Feature | Description |
| Screen size | 0.9 × 0.9 inches, or 0.79 x 0.79 inches |
| Touchscreen | No |
| Battery life using GPS | 48 hours or longer (Instinct 2 Solar) |
| Battery life on standby | Indefinite (Solar Instinct 2) |
| Onboard storage | Maximum 32MB |
| Bluetooth connection | Yes |
| Smartwatch capabilities | Yes |
| Multisport mode | Yes |
Garmin Instinct 2 Pros and Cons
Positive:
- There are several sizes available.
- The solar variant has a “indefinite” battery.
- The GPS tracking is excellent.
Negative:
- Maps are not displayed properly
7. Garmin Fenix 7
The rugged Garmin Fenix 7 is a device designed for adventurers and outdoor lovers. It does a great job tracking common fitness sports like swimming and jogging, but its real power comes out on high-adrenaline activities like backcountry skiing, scuba diving, and multi-day excursions in isolated wilderness places. The Fenix 7 offers extensive data and insights to support your active lifestyle and adventurous adventures, all combined with Garmin’s hallmark health-tracking functions.
The 51mm Fenix 7X Sapphire Solar version weighs 3.1 ounces, whereas the normal Fenix 7S weighs 2 ounces. The Garmin Fenix 7 is unquestionably a sturdy watch. This watch is heavy, but it has a lot of storage, a long battery life, and remarkable water resistance—up to 100 meters (330 feet)—despite that. Its simple design also makes band shifting simple, which is a useful feature for travelers coming back from days spent in the outdoors.
There are several editions of the Garmin Fenix 7 available to meet a range of requirements and tastes. Perfect for rough and tumble travels, the regular version has a toughened glass screen and a stainless steel bezel. The solar edition provides a power glass screen that can be charged by exposure to sunlight, enhancing its endurance for individuals looking for longer battery life.
The Sapphire Solar Edition Fenix 7 features a titanium bezel—stronger than stainless steel—and a power sapphire lens for the ultimate in endurance and durability. For outdoor enthusiasts who demand the best performance and longevity from their gear, this combination not only increases the watch’s robustness but also lengthens its battery life.
Garmin Fenix 7 Spec
| Feature | Description |
| Heart rate inclinometer | Yes |
| GPS | Yes |
| Resistance to water | 100 meters |
| Show off | MIP of 1.2 inches |
| Music playing on board | Yes |
| Payments via mobile | Yes |
| Sleep tracking: | Yes |
| Battery life | 72 hours or 14 days with GPS |
Garmin Fenix 7 Pros and Cons
Positive:
- A battery can run for several weeks.
- Brimming with attributes.
- 64 megabytes of storage
Negative:
- Weight and Size
- For certain users, it could be expensive at first.
8. Garmin Epix Gen 2
Presenting the newest model in the Epix family, the Epix Gen 2, which has characteristics similar to the Fenix 7. Though it shares many of the same features and dimensions as the regular Fenix 7, the Epix Gen 2 stands out because to its AMOLED screen.
This gorgeous display is similar to the screen of a smartphone, with brilliant colors and outstanding clarity. Reading maps and following exercises is made easier with the help of the Epix Gen 2’s screen, which improves your experience whether you’re following guided strength workouts or trail navigation.
Even though the Epix Gen 2’s AMOLED screen uses a little bit more energy to run, the Fenix 7’s already strong battery life makes for an excellent overall battery life. The Epix Gen 2 still has a strong battery life, so customers may still enjoy lengthy use for their outdoor activities and adventures despite this minor trade-off.
Specifications of the Garmin Epix Gen 2
| Features | Description |
| Screen Size | 1.3 Inches |
| Unique Elements | Heart-rate monitoring, GPS, multi-band GNSS, ABC sensors, Topo maps, turn-by-turn navigation, sleep monitoring, respiration tracking, heart rate monitoring, smart notifications, and GPS |
| Battery Life (Smartwatch) | Gesture up to 16 days, always-on up to 5 days |
| Battery Life (GPS Mode) | Gesture up to 42 hours, always-on up to 30 hours |
| Health Monitoring | Continuous monitoring of Heart Rate, Pulse Oxygen, Stress, Respiration, and Advanced Sleep (estimations) |
Garmin Epix Gen 2 Pros and Cons
Positive:
- A vibrant, crisp screen that is very readable
- Adaptable to a range of situations, such as professional settings and running or riding
- Sturdy construction that is appropriate for outdoor use
- Precise sleep monitoring and informative statistics
- Prolonged battery life
Negative:
- For people who choose smaller timepieces, size might not be a big deal.
- Compatibility issues with devices made by third parties
9. Garmin Vivosmart 4
Among the watches we’re talking about today, the Garmin Vivosmart 4 sticks out because it doesn’t include integrated standalone GPS functionality. This implies that in order to precisely track your actions, you’ll need to carry your phone with you.
Nevertheless, wrist-based optical heart rate monitoring is still available with the Vivosmart 4, giving you important information about your heart rate both during and after exercises. It also has features like rep counting, which makes monitoring your workouts easier by automatically keeping track of your repetitions during gym sessions.
The adaptable design of the Vivosmart 4 is one noteworthy feature. It’s simple to change the color of the strap, so you can accessorize and customize it to fit your preferred look.
The Garmin Vivosmart 4 is designed for people who are looking for a fitness tracker that matches well with their everyday clothes. Its sleek and slender style goes well with casual attire and is ideal for working out.
For people who don’t care as much about accurate running data and don’t mind carrying their phone about for music playback or GPS tracking, this watch is a great option. For those who value working out at the gym and seek a fashionable yet functional fitness tracker, the Vivosmart 4 might be the best choice.
Garmin vivosmart 4 Spec
| Features | Description |
| Rating | 4.2 out of 5 stars |
| Size | Small: Fits wrists measuring between 122-188 mm in circumference. Large: 148–215 mm in circumference can fit wrists. |
| Display | Vibrant, readable display with chic metal accents |
| Standard for Wireless Communication | Bluetooth |
| Advanced Technology for Sleep Monitoring | Incorporates a pulse oxygen sensor and tracks REM sleep |
| Blood Saturation with Oxygen | It is not a medical gadget; it measures while you sleep. |
| Fitness Monitoring | Vo2 Max, body battery, stress tracking, and wrist-based heart rate |
| Timers for Activities | Timer specifically designed for strength training, yoga, walks, and runs. |
| Material | Polycarbonate lens |
| silicone strap | |
| Compatible Devices | VIRB X, VIRB XE, and VIRB Ultra 30 |
| Alerts for Notifications | vibration notifications for texts, calls, and other messages (and for Android text responses) |
| Life of a Battery | Seven days, excluding the pulse and sleep tracking periods. |
| Water Resistance | secure for showering and swimming |
10. Garmin Vivoactive 4
Introducing the unique fitness offering, the Garmin Vivoactive 4, which has a classic watch form factor with two side buttons. The Vivoactive 4 has built-in music streaming capabilities, unlike the Vivosmart 4, so users can listen to their favorite songs from services like Spotify and Deezer without using a phone.
Like previous Garmin watches, the Vivoactive 4 has an integrated GPS for precise tracking, so you won’t need to have your phone with you when you’re doing activities for more usefulness and accuracy.
The touchscreen interface of the Vivoactive 4 is one noteworthy feature. Considering how inexpensive it is in comparison to other Garmin models, this is a pleasant inclusion. With the ability to swipe, tap, and utilize buttons for navigation, this touchscreen offers consumers versatility and convenience of use in navigating menus.
For whom is this watch intended? In essence, it’s an excellent all-around player. It lacks some of the more sophisticated running-specific information and capabilities that we will discuss later on, such as load monitoring, training status, and performance condition.
Garmin Vivoactive 4 Spec
| Features | Description |
| Rating | 4.5 stars instead of 5 |
| Size Options | 4.5 stars instead of 5 |
| Material | Stainless Steel |
| Screen Size | 1.3 Inches |
| Battery Life | In smartwatch mode, up to eight days GPS and audio mode: up to 6 hours |
| Water Quality Index | 5 ATM |
| Key Features | Pulse Ox sensors for body energy monitoring (not a medical gadget) Animated workouts; preloaded GPS and indoor sports applications; stress and sleep monitoring; respiration tracking; menstrual cycle tracking; hydration tracking; estimated heart rate; – Playback and storage of music – Customization via IQ store connection – Intelligent alerts |
Conclusion
All things considered, Garmin’s selection of outdoor timepieces offers a wide array of choices to satisfy the demands of adventure seekers everywhere. Whether you’re an avid runner, an adventurous traveler, or someone who enjoys pushing the envelope, Garmin has a watch designed to help you achieve your goals.
Every watch blends cutting-edge technology with robustness and functionality, from the feature-rich Forerunner 955 with enhanced training stats to the sturdy and dependable Instinct 2 made for outdoor adventures.
The Epix Gen 2’s vivid AMOLED display improves navigation, while the Fenix 7 offers both elegance and adaptability. In the meantime, the Enduro 2’s exceptional battery life and sophisticated monitoring features cater especially to the needs of ultra-runners. Adventure has no boundaries while using Garmin.
Whichever Garmin running smartwatch you choose, you can be sure to have a trustworthy travel companion. Every watch provides priceless information and performance indicators to help you reach your exercise goals.
When you use a Garmin watch, you can travel with confidence because you know that it is designed to withstand the harshest conditions and provide unmatched performance at every turn.
Q: Which Garmin watch is best for daily running?
It can be simple to select a Garmin watch for your everyday runs! Based on your preferences, Garmin offers several excellent solutions.
Would you prefer a watch that has all the essential running functions, like measuring your pace and distance traveled, along with some nice extras like workout suggestion and assistance with pace? Examine the Garmin Forerunner 265 device.
Are you new to this or on a tight budget? Without all the features, the Garmin Forerunner 55 tracks your runs.
Perhaps you’d like a smartwatch that can pay for purchases and store music as well. Similar to a Forerunner 265 but with all the capabilities of a wristwatch, is the Garmin Venu 3!
Q: Which Garmin is the Greatest for Novice Runners?
It’s possible that a newbie runner doesn’t require all the features of a very sophisticated watch. For you, the Garmin Forerunner 55 is an excellent choice! It’s affordable, which is ideal if you’re just getting started. Furthermore, you won’t lose time working out a complex interface because it is incredibly user-friendly. It records every crucial detail of your runs, including pace, distance, and heart rate. It even has features like pace notifications and virtual races to keep things interesting.
You can concentrate on your runs without having to worry about constantly recharging thanks to the device’s up to 20-hour battery life in GPS mode.When you start your running journey, the Forerunner 55 is the ideal option for tracking your progress and maintaining motivation!
