@@aandroid11 I'm not sure if this is what you mean but the 55 does have pacepro which allows you to set course distance, time then negative/positive split per mile or km. The watch will then help you stick to the designated pace to complete the distance in the specified time
Thank you for your review, your comparison reviews are really spot on to help distinguish pros & cons between products. I've used my Garmin 410 for 10 years now, that is also how long I've been running. My Garmin has been my faithful companion on all my runs & I love the 10 years of running stats on Garmin Connect. Unfortunately, I've "misplaced" my Garmin 😥, it has been missing a week & I'm reluctantly searching for a new watch. My focus is running - not looking for anything to measure Tri's, swimming or biking or for listening to music. I had more or less settled on the Garmin 55 as, of course, the most basic watch is going to have more than my 10 year old 410. But after watching this video, I'm going to get the 245 - all the points you mentioned of things the 245 has that the 55 doesn't sold me including the additional training features, trail run & strength features, navigation, bigger screen & the hold button to get to other screens while continuing to track your current run/activity. I do have some questions that came from watching your videos (I also watched the comparison of Garmin 55 to the Coros(?). One is the metal inserts on the back of the watches for the HR monitor. I'm highly allergic to nickel & I'm wondering about the nickel content of those metal inserts? Maybe that's a question I need to ask Garmin about directly. My other question is are you familiar with the 410? I was wondering if there are any features on it that may not be found on the 245? Interestingly, the 410 has the "back to start" feature as old as it is and I would have been disappointed getting the 55 & finding it does not have that feature, so I'm trying to "dig out" any other features that I might be losing from 410 to 245, altho I realize they would be out weighed by the MANY advances/features in technology from 10 years ago. Also, to your point, it appears that they've "parsed out" features so they can have different "level" watches with different price points. Thank you!
Thx for the helpful video! If I am on a budget, I will definitely go for the 55, but if that’s not a concern, I will probably still wait for the next iteration of the 245.
I don't typically watch this kind of content however I was browsing around different channels when I happened to stop by on yours. I got to admit, it's different and I really like it! Great stuff you have going on here, totally keep pushing through! Just wanted to stop by and show some support!
I returned my 745 as I thought it was way too expensive for what it was, so my choice was between these two, I went for the 55, I was often annoyed at my 745 telling me about my training load so I don't miss that on my 55! Also the screen size I haven't actually cared at all, which I thought I would do! For the price, it's perfect.
Great video, thanks for sharing. Have been considering these 2 watches, was surprised at the differences. The 245 I think it's the better choice for me.
@@ChaseTheSummit - Also, nice work on finding some subtle differences in here. I would have never noticed that 'hold bottom right button' being disabled difference. 👌
I am a new runner and just purchased my 55 and it's just the perfect watch for me. I love how it motivates me to always run. The data in the Garmin Connect is very comprehensive enough for achieving my weight-loss goal.
Playbetter is awesome! I bought the Coros Pace 2 and the Forerunner 55 from them. Just trying them both out to see which one to keep and which one to return. But after watching this, I might also consider the 245.
@@kamranmammadli5850 I ended up getting the 245. The Pace 2 was nice and there were some things I really liked about it. But there were some things I wasn't crazy about. With every mile alert, it would go to a different screen that I didn't care for. So I'd have to scroll back to the screen I wanted. I contacted support and there was nothing that could be done about this. The 245 isn't perfect. I don't like the strength training profile now that they updated it. But I like the other activity profiles and watch features.
@@alfromtx245 İ get it thank for your comment)) mb İ might wait a little bit for 255 price to drop and use animated workouts feature which I am more enthusiast about..I watched ton of vides and everyone recommend getting into garmin ecosystem as it is more futureproof and one day if u buy fenix series than you can still see your old data
Exactly the analysis I needed. Based on this, I ordered a 245 (for $246 w/ tax) to use for running and cycling (with my Edge 830). My Versa 3 is pretty useful but does not broadcast heart rate, and I'm not a fan of the (arguably more accurate) chest strap.
Great review, just trying to upgrade my latest sport wearable (mi band 5) 😁. Been watching lot of review between suunto 5 peak n forerunner 55,i think i'm gonna go with the 55.thanks man
Would be nice if you mentioned the lug to lug measurement in future:) that's the only measurement that really matters for people with smaller wrists. :)
Although Forerunner 55 is really solid option for that price, navigation on the FR245 is a killer feature for me. It's incredibly awesome and it's so easy to create a course and upload it to the watch.
Have you ever had an issue when navigating where the turn by turn directions disappear and a checkered flag showed up? It happened to me recently and I was baffled.
Went for the 55, while the training load, strength training and better sleep metrics are things i could benefit from, they couldn't justify the 30% price increase that the 245 meant, i use my watch for Stand Up Paddle racing and other workouts i do as accesories (swimming, cycling and strength training)
I want a 245 and also foot pod, I think the 245 will give data on pod extra elements, also the 245 has a higher screen resolution and gorilla glass as well than a 55.
First I watched German review comparing 245, 745, 945. Then I watched your comparison. I ordered the 245 music. The higher options have some interesting features, like altitude/barometric sensor and having maps on the device. Also multisport mode seems to be important for triathlets. But for my sports profile (not hiking up on mount kilimanjaro) 245 sounds like a good bang for the buck. I want to listen to music while running and let my phone at home, which is my I ordered the music version.
Not sure about showering with them as the issue isn't the water, but rather the heat. This can cause parts to expand which could affect waterproofness.
Just got the Garmin 55 yesterday! Thanks for helping me in the decision process. Your thoroughness is very much appreciated 🤟🏽 Thanks especially also for pointing out the somewhat hidden pacing feature ⚙️
@@fun2beakid455 yeah! So I originally was going for the 245, but this video brought to my attention the 55. When I went to the store, I realized the price differential between the two is more significant than their functionality. Extremely happy with my 55, a month later. I’d say go for it 💯
@@dawnfmEnthusiast is there a option in 55 to use Spotify ? I want some watches that let me leave my phone home and go running with only headphones and watches
@@davidkozak7058 so there's a 55 music and 55 non-music option. i got the latter. in the music option, I'm sure spotify is offered - so that may be the move for you.
@@ChaseTheSummit indeed. Not sure if Stryd works fully on a 55. My guess is it'd work as an iQ field, but the stand-alone separate Workout App wouldn't work due to memory limitation. Just guessing though
I have the 245M for 2 years now. The music kills the battery so I never use that feature. Battery lasts about a week with 8ish hours of running activities.
@@ChaseTheSummit my 245M battery is its weak point. Especially if you have smart notifications on..I don't use music on it currently but still, smart mode + maybe 2 hours if running per week and it drains so quick. Am sure I can dim the screen and other stuff but shouldn't have to. Either way though, fantastic watch!
The music kills battery for example just like during the run or generally as a whole battery is compromised by using the music feature? In otherwords - can active listening to music on the 245 decreased the overall battery lifetime in the watch?
@@jakubgomola2119 I would say that it kills the batter generally. I will say that recently I did a 9 hour hike with the watch in gps mode and at the end of the day the battery was at 45%. Which seems pretty good for a watch that is 2 years old.
Still surprised how expensive the Garmin watches seem to be in US. Here in Germany, you'll get the 245 as well as the 55 for about 200 €. The Music version costs about 60 € more. I even got a used 245 Music, which does not have a single scratch for 130 €.
I have gotten the two and have returned them and instead got me the Forerunner 645 which was for half price. The one thing I didn't like about the FR 245 was the buttons because to me they were to weak to press they need to stick out more and when my fingers got sweaty from a run the stainless steel would make it harder to press them without been slippery. I much prefer plastic for buttons since it is less slippery for my fingers. Also, the style of the FR 245 did not amused me as much as the 645 which has a more elegant style and most of the features of the 245. In regards to the FR 55 I just returned it to get me the Coros Pace instead but the 55 is still a better choice for me than the expensive 245.
@@ChaseTheSummit Yes, actually I got the 645 for less than the 245 and went for it. It looks better not bad for what I paid for it. Not perfect but it has most stuff the 245 does and it looks better.
Just picked up the 245 on sale for 224. Comparing full price for both the 55 is a better deal. But since I scored the 245 on sale for only 24 usd extra was a no brainer
I need the O2 sensor since I run and hike in the mountains. I am heading to Kilimanjaro and they send you down if your O2 levels get too low. Thus, if you are getting low, you need to take a break or slow down to keep your O2 levels from going too low.
hello, thanks for this video review. 1) I'm also considering the forerunner 55 vs venu 2. I'm using it mainly to broadcast heart rate to the Garmin edge 530 when cycling, and to track my occasional jogs (maybe twice a month, 5 km each time). Which would be recommended? Welcome other models to be recommended too. 2) will be mainly using it for my night cycling and jogs. Is the screen (transflective memory-in-pixel) on the FR55 suitable for use at night? Thanks.
The Forerunner 55 is a better sport watch in my opinion but the Venu 2 has advantages in wellness tracking and smart watch features. I prefer the transflective display for running/riding because it's easier to see at a glance. At night it has an auto-backlight as well.
My channel mainly revolves around running but both of these watches will work for cycling as well. Unfortunately neither of these watches can pair to cycling power sensors though which might be a drawback!
Maybe a weird question: with Covid I started running (in addition to playing a lot of tennis in the summer and a little less in the winter) and enjoyed a vivoactive 3 for a few years though clearly, it has some heart-rate issues. Since I live in Canada, the winter is spent doing running, cross-country-skiing and indoor tennis and indoor cycling. I am wondering about an upgrade from the vivoactive 3. Key additional features: more activity features (add Yoga, trail hiking), better fitness/recovery status , maps a plus since I am starting to get bored of the neighborhoods, connectivity to other trackers (I won't be improving power in my 60s). I am hoping to get more cycling and cross-country-skiing (even roll-skis in the summer). I am looking at all brands and options and it is really hard to see through though I am probably not the only one in his 50s who tries to be active (but can't do it all running as his knees would complain) and must avoid overreaching while trying to maintain endurance, strength and flexibility. Any thoughts on brands or appropriate vivo price level watches per brand?
I think moving up to a Forerunner 945 or similar would probably suit your needs and cover more activities. Currently there are some fantastic deals out there for the holidays!
I am looking for a garmin watch for hiking and good gps can track my trail. I don't necessarily use the garmin map during the trail, but just would like to have all my trails track extracted in my computer. I am a beginner, do this for fun. And also want to record my gym, daily exercise, tennis etc. Which garmin would you suggest? Thanks
Nice review!! It helped me a lot. I have 2 questions though: 1. Can we change the data on watch face of fr55 eg. Heart rate, step counts, calories burned, etc. Same as the 245? 2. Can we change the background color of the watch face of fr55 from black / white? Thanks in advance!!
The only thing that is putting me off the 55 is the screen size and resolution. I currently have a 230 which now has a hairline crack, so i am forced to upgrade. If the 55 screen size is smaller than the 230 then I will definitely go for the 245, otherwise the 55 will be more than sufficient
For heart rate comparison, where you wear the watches during activity? Please do comparison by switching position too. If same hand 2 watches, try switch place and check difference. If 2 watches on different hand, please switch and retest. Is the tracking differences still same?
In my testing I do several runs (between 5-15 depending on the video) and during those runs I wear the watches on my left/right wrist. I also alternate the watches location on every run and note which watch was on which wrist. For a baseline of comparison I also wear a chest based ECG sensor. This is about as scientific as I can get. Thanks for watching!
Hello, thank you very much for the video. I've never owned a Garmin watch but was thinking of getting one. Would you say that the Garmin 245 is still an ideal watch to get even with the latest Garmin 255 that came out this year?
Great video man! I'm currently a bit stuck in what watch would be the best fit for me. Not really a big runner, but I'm a track and field athlete (javelin throw) so my training is very variable. If I'm looking mostly for a watch to help me track my strain levels from workouts and throughout a regular day, as well as my recovery levels from sleep - which of these two options are the better bang for my buck? And how would the Polar Pacer measure up to them? Thanks!
@@ChaseTheSummit I have actually checked the info on the 255, but it is a bit out of my budget at the moment. I'm situated in South Africa, so prices are quite a bit inflated. Forerunner 255 (non-music) - ZAR6999 (USD450) Forerunner 245 (music) - ZAR4999 (USD325) Forerunner 55 - ZAR3199 (USD205) Polar Pacer - ZAR3999 (USD260) Is the 255 really worth the extra investment? Or would one of the other options be able to do the trick?
Great video, do you know anything about the training plans? I'm looking to upload a sub 20 minute 5k to my forerunner 55, and then it tells me what to do each day, is this possible?
This is possible. You'll need to find a training plan that works and manually input this into the Garmin Connect calendar to stay on track. Unfortunately Garmin Coach doesn't offer much more than basic training plans for 5k's and up to marathon distances.
Thanks for this helpful video, currently using the 245 but a little bumped out that it doesn’t have the HIIT training option. Any suggestion how I still can track my HIIT training using the 245 ?
Hey, loved the video, it was very helpful. I have one question though, reading the specifications of these watches i noticed thar neither of these have an altimeter, so when you go on a trail run or something like that, does it measure the hight in some way?
Thanks! Elevation is calculated based on the GPS data after you complete your activity. So Strava will still show the gain but when you’re out on the run you have no way of seeing real-time elevation data. Hope that helps!
It's a shame that garmin is gatekeeping useful statistics only for higher models, despite that it's probably just a matter of software. Otherwise if 55 had all these fitness stats it would be a great choice.
In some cases it’s software but it’s also important to remember that software isn’t always free. In the case of Garmin each device with advanced metrics is licensed from FirstBeat. It’s kind of like buying a computer with MS Office on board at a slightly inflated price. But yeah, I like CORO’s approach to providing ALL the features to ALL the watches. Thanks for watching!
What's odd is that in spite of the larger screen of 240x240 vs 208x208 legibility doesn't seem very different,i.e. still pretty small outside of running fields. I guess you have to go to 260x260 and the F6 to really see a difference?
Yeah they’re pretty similar. Honestly the resolution doesn’t do much in terms of readability. It’s more about the font design and size of the font. It seems like increased resolution just makes things look sharper and prettier. Thanks for watching!
I have a chance to earn one of these two through my insurance rewards program. I am torn, not sure if I will use all the features of the 245. But am concerned in the long run I will want more than the 55. I am runner, but a middle to back of the pack runner. I do weight and other gym classes days a week too. Thoughts? I think I am leaning 55. If you are in a workout, can you check messages/notifications if they come in? Your video made me think you cannot
Nice! Both will do the job. The 245 has a few advantages in terms of training tools and a slightly bigger display along with the music option. Both will display incoming notifications during a workout. Hope that helps!
@@ChaseTheSummit can you please share the link could not find anything. Yes i know dc rainmaker analysis tool but its too costly for me. I basically want to compare pace and gps accuracy of two different devices.
The views on these comparison vids are always high! You're making choices much easier for thousands of people, it seems 😀
Thanks Morgan! That's why I keep making them! People seem to dig them and I enjoy the process.
By the way, you are one of my greatests references about Garmin watches. Thank you very much.
Glad you find this stuff useful!
Bought the Forerunner 55 2 weeks ago. I've been enjoying a lot. Came from the vivosmart HR... the difference is huge!
Awesome!
Does it have when you can set up a distance and finish at a certain time?
@@aandroid11 I'm not sure if this is what you mean but the 55 does have pacepro which allows you to set course distance, time then negative/positive split per mile or km. The watch will then help you stick to the designated pace to complete the distance in the specified time
@@Tom-cc3mb yes 🙌 that’s what I meant thank you
I was just trying to find this video HHAHAHHAHA , you are the best! Thanks man!
What's so funny 😁
Thanks, I had a Forerunner 55 and bought a 245 on viewing your review. Very happy. ;-)
Awesome! Enjoy it!
Overall, is 245 battery loss faster than 55?
@@nice4612yes
Thoroughly enjoyed this review, thumbs up Dave!
Pulled the trigger on the 55 a week ago at $183 and this week the price is back to $228.
Nice! That's a great price!
55 here is around 130€ :)
Thank you for your review, your comparison reviews are really spot on to help distinguish pros & cons between products. I've used my Garmin 410 for 10 years now, that is also how long I've been running. My Garmin has been my faithful companion on all my runs & I love the 10 years of running stats on Garmin Connect. Unfortunately, I've "misplaced" my Garmin 😥, it has been missing a week & I'm reluctantly searching for a new watch. My focus is running - not looking for anything to measure Tri's, swimming or biking or for listening to music. I had more or less settled on the Garmin 55 as, of course, the most basic watch is going to have more than my 10 year old 410. But after watching this video, I'm going to get the 245 - all the points you mentioned of things the 245 has that the 55 doesn't sold me including the additional training features, trail run & strength features, navigation, bigger screen & the hold button to get to other screens while continuing to track your current run/activity. I do have some questions that came from watching your videos (I also watched the comparison of Garmin 55 to the Coros(?). One is the metal inserts on the back of the watches for the HR monitor. I'm highly allergic to nickel & I'm wondering about the nickel content of those metal inserts? Maybe that's a question I need to ask Garmin about directly. My other question is are you familiar with the 410? I was wondering if there are any features on it that may not be found on the 245? Interestingly, the 410 has the "back to start" feature as old as it is and I would have been disappointed getting the 55 & finding it does not have that feature, so I'm trying to "dig out" any other features that I might be losing from 410 to 245, altho I realize they would be out weighed by the MANY advances/features in technology from 10 years ago. Also, to your point, it appears that they've "parsed out" features so they can have different "level" watches with different price points. Thank you!
The 245 is a solid choice! Thanks for sharing your thoughts.
Thank you! The navigational features makes me go for the 245! Glad I watched this.
Glad it was helpful!
Thx for the helpful video! If I am on a budget, I will definitely go for the 55, but if that’s not a concern, I will probably still wait for the next iteration of the 245.
Solid plan!
@@ChaseTheSummit is there any formal release date for the next iteration?
I don't typically watch this kind of content however I was browsing around different channels when I happened to stop by on yours. I got to admit, it's different and I really like it! Great stuff you have going on here, totally keep pushing through! Just wanted to stop by and show some support!
That means a lot! Thank you!
@@ChaseTheSummit You're more than welcome!
i love my 55! a little over a week now and it is awesome!
Thanks for sharing! I't s agreat watch!
Have you had any other smart watches? I’m so torn. I have an old Fitbit and want a running watch so bad.
I am using forerunner 245 music and I am in love with this watch .....accurate all the time and I just enjoy long run with this watch
Awesome!
Spot on. Thank You for clearing my doubts! Will buy 55.
Hope you like it!
I returned my 745 as I thought it was way too expensive for what it was, so my choice was between these two, I went for the 55, I was often annoyed at my 745 telling me about my training load so I don't miss that on my 55! Also the screen size I haven't actually cared at all, which I thought I would do! For the price, it's perfect.
Thanks for sharing! I think the 55 is a perfectly capable running watch!
Brilliant review! 👏 thanks
I think I’ll go for 245 as for now is even cheaper than 55
Great video, thanks for sharing. Have been considering these 2 watches, was surprised at the differences. The 245 I think it's the better choice for me.
It's a great watch!
Absolutely perfect review, Just made me decide on a watch! Thanks so much
Just upgraded from the Forerunner 15 to the FR 55 & so far its been great
That's a big leap! Hope you enjoy it!
I’m trying to decide between 245 and pace 2. The insights here and the other 55 vs pace2 video are helpful!
Glad you found it helpful! They're both pretty great!
Garmin cool
Thanks for the detailed review. One nitpick: if you've never been lab tested for VO2 max, you really cannot claim whether these are accurate.
I recently have been lab tested. But You're right. I basically just compare everything to the Garmin I've been wearing for longer periods of time.
I’ve been getting this exact question a lot. (I don’t have the 245) Thanks for making this. 👌
You're quick Matt!
@@ChaseTheSummit - I thought about posting one of those 'First' comments. That's what the cool kids do right? 🤔
@@ChaseTheSummit - Also, nice work on finding some subtle differences in here. I would have never noticed that 'hold bottom right button' being disabled difference. 👌
6:46 - good catch, thanks for sharing, hadn't seen it mentioned elsewere
I thought that was odd! Must be a limitation of the memory inside the watch.
Just bought 245..this vid help me a lot. Thanks...
Glad it was helpful!
Helped me top I Will buy an used 245
thanks for video and replying every comments😄.It's helpful.I prefer 245 to 55.
Glad it was helpful!
it was the best garmin review i've ever seen. i hope Korean youtuber make kind of like this great videos.
Thank you!
I am a new runner and just purchased my 55 and it's just the perfect watch for me. I love how it motivates me to always run. The data in the Garmin Connect is very comprehensive enough for achieving my weight-loss goal.
Awesome! Enjoy!
Playbetter is awesome! I bought the Coros Pace 2 and the Forerunner 55 from them. Just trying them both out to see which one to keep and which one to return. But after watching this, I might also consider the 245.
Glad you enjoyed your purchase! They're awesome to deal with!
what happened
@@kamranmammadli5850 I ended up getting the 245. The Pace 2 was nice and there were some things I really liked about it. But there were some things I wasn't crazy about. With every mile alert, it would go to a different screen that I didn't care for. So I'd have to scroll back to the screen I wanted. I contacted support and there was nothing that could be done about this. The 245 isn't perfect. I don't like the strength training profile now that they updated it. But I like the other activity profiles and watch features.
@@alfromtx245 İ get it thank for your comment)) mb İ might wait a little bit for 255 price to drop and use animated workouts feature which I am more enthusiast about..I watched ton of vides and everyone recommend getting into garmin ecosystem as it is more futureproof and one day if u buy fenix series than you can still see your old data
@@kamranmammadli5850 I've heard the 255 is great. Hope you can find a good deal on this.
Exactly the analysis I needed. Based on this, I ordered a 245 (for $246 w/ tax) to use for running and cycling (with my Edge 830). My Versa 3 is pretty useful but does not broadcast heart rate, and I'm not a fan of the (arguably more accurate) chest strap.
Kinda funny that a 245 almost costs $245! Enjoy it!
That was a great comparision. Thank you from Spain!
Thanks!
Thanks for this awesome comparison! You're a legend!
Glad it was helpful!
Amazing review! Thank you for helping me choose between the two!
Great review, just trying to upgrade my latest sport wearable (mi band 5) 😁.
Been watching lot of review between suunto 5 peak n forerunner 55,i think i'm gonna go with the 55.thanks man
thanks! the first video i found doing this comparison (and also doing a banger job!). very much appreciated!!
Glad it was helpful!
Thanks man ...Detailed Video 👏
Really detailed review and differentiation provided. Thank you!
Glad it was helpful!
Thanks this video helped me to deside what watch to chose!
Would be nice if you mentioned the lug to lug measurement in future:) that's the only measurement that really matters for people with smaller wrists. :)
Thanks for the feedback! I'll see what I can do.
I think it’s my first time looking for something and search specific for a youtuber review
Thanks Kenny!
Geweldige video en een mooie vergelijking tussen de 245 en de 55. Het prijsverschil is nu minder dan €30. Dan is de keus wel gemakkelijker.
A lot easier! Thanks for watching!
I just got the Garmin 4r 55 two days ago. I use it as a smart watch step tracker. Its cheaper than the apple watch and the battery last longer.
Pretty good comparison!!
Thanks for that review. Very helpful.
Glad it was helpful!
thx!!
very helpful to give a present for my husband !
Glad it was helpful!
Very good video, best review I've seen so far on these watches, and trust me, I've watched plenty reviews 😂
Glad it was helpful!
Although Forerunner 55 is really solid option for that price, navigation on the FR245 is a killer feature for me.
It's incredibly awesome and it's so easy to create a course and upload it to the watch.
I tend to agree. I'm big on navigation but I know many that have never even used the feature despite owning a Fenix or something!
Have you ever had an issue when navigating where the turn by turn directions disappear and a checkered flag showed up? It happened to me recently and I was baffled.
Went for the 55, while the training load, strength training and better sleep metrics are things i could benefit from, they couldn't justify the 30% price increase that the 245 meant, i use my watch for Stand Up Paddle racing and other workouts i do as accesories (swimming, cycling and strength training)
Fair enough!
How is swimming? Do you recommend I want one just for swimming
@@horaciobrown9754I would say for pool swimming it will count your laps (pools) but in open water unfortunately, will not be able to cope
Thanks brother for the great wacky review :)
Can always count of me for that!
Thanks for the review!
Glad it was helpful!
I like your style of making videos ! Subscribed :)
Thanks!
I want a 245 and also foot pod, I think the 245 will give data on pod extra elements, also the 245 has a higher screen resolution and gorilla glass as well than a 55.
very detailed! Thank you
Glad it was helpful!
Great video. I especially like your analysis of HR and GPS data. Why do you call the 55 the 455 in this video?
I thought the same thing at first, but realized he's calling it the "forerunner 55". He's just saying it pretty fast.
Thanks for the Video
First I watched German review comparing 245, 745, 945.
Then I watched your comparison.
I ordered the 245 music.
The higher options have some interesting features, like altitude/barometric sensor and having maps on the device. Also multisport mode seems to be important for triathlets. But for my sports profile (not hiking up on mount kilimanjaro) 245 sounds like a good bang for the buck.
I want to listen to music while running and let my phone at home, which is my I ordered the music version.
I think you'll be happy with your choice!
Not sure about showering with them as the issue isn't the water, but rather the heat. This can cause parts to expand which could affect waterproofness.
For sure, I haven't had an issue with years of showering with various watches but I suppose that could become an issue. Thanks for sharing.
Just got the Garmin 55 yesterday! Thanks for helping me in the decision process. Your thoroughness is very much appreciated 🤟🏽
Thanks especially also for pointing out the somewhat hidden pacing feature ⚙️
Glad it was helpful!
Did you pick the 55 over the 245? If so how do you find it? I got the fr35 wanting a upgrade :)
@@fun2beakid455 yeah! So I originally was going for the 245, but this video brought to my attention the 55. When I went to the store, I realized the price differential between the two is more significant than their functionality. Extremely happy with my 55, a month later. I’d say go for it 💯
@@dawnfmEnthusiast is there a option in 55 to use Spotify ? I want some watches that let me leave my phone home and go running with only headphones and watches
@@davidkozak7058 so there's a 55 music and 55 non-music option. i got the latter. in the music option, I'm sure spotify is offered - so that may be the move for you.
At 6:30 the 245 can pair with a _running_ power sensor (Stryd)
Yes! I was specifically referring to cycling power sensors. Thanks for sharing.
@@ChaseTheSummit indeed. Not sure if Stryd works fully on a 55.
My guess is it'd work as an iQ field, but the stand-alone separate Workout App wouldn't work due to memory limitation. Just guessing though
I have the 245M for 2 years now. The music kills the battery so I never use that feature. Battery lasts about a week with 8ish hours of running activities.
That music crushes battery life on all Garmins. Even the Fenix! Hopefully they can do something about that in the future. Thanks for sharing Brice!
@@ChaseTheSummit my 245M battery is its weak point. Especially if you have smart notifications on..I don't use music on it currently but still, smart mode + maybe 2 hours if running per week and it drains so quick. Am sure I can dim the screen and other stuff but shouldn't have to. Either way though, fantastic watch!
The music kills battery for example just like during the run or generally as a whole battery is compromised by using the music feature? In otherwords - can active listening to music on the 245 decreased the overall battery lifetime in the watch?
@@jakubgomola2119 I would say that it kills the batter generally. I will say that recently I did a 9 hour hike with the watch in gps mode and at the end of the day the battery was at 45%. Which seems pretty good for a watch that is 2 years old.
Soild video bro
Thanks for this
Glad it was helpful!
The best review! Can I connect my Polar h9 to these watches?
Thanks! And yes!
Still surprised how expensive the Garmin watches seem to be in US. Here in Germany, you'll get the 245 as well as the 55 for about 200 €. The Music version costs about 60 € more. I even got a used 245 Music, which does not have a single scratch for 130 €.
They're certainly not cheap!
Excellent
It is easy to find the 245 used for way less than the 55. And as soon as the successor of the 245 is announced prices decrease even more.
Right now it seems to be on sale for around $239 for the non-music version.
I have gotten the two and have returned them and instead got me the Forerunner 645 which was for half price. The one thing I didn't like about the FR 245 was the buttons because to me they were to weak to press they need to stick out more and when my fingers got sweaty from a run the stainless steel would make it harder to press them without been slippery. I much prefer plastic for buttons since it is less slippery for my fingers. Also, the style of the FR 245 did not amused me as much as the 645 which has a more elegant style and most of the features of the 245. In regards to the FR 55 I just returned it to get me the Coros Pace instead but the 55 is still a better choice for me than the expensive 245.
Interesting. Do you like the 645 more than the 245 despite the price?
@@ChaseTheSummit Yes, actually I got the 645 for less than the 245 and went for it. It looks better not bad for what I paid for it. Not perfect but it has most stuff the 245 does and it looks better.
I will say that on my forerunner 45, I can press the down or up buttons to go to the clock and widgets, so I would guess that the 55 also does that
Just picked up the 245 on sale for 224. Comparing full price for both the 55 is a better deal. But since I scored the 245 on sale for only 24 usd extra was a no brainer
Great price! For sure, the 245 is better than the 55 in just about every way.
I need the O2 sensor since I run and hike in the mountains. I am heading to Kilimanjaro and they send you down if your O2 levels get too low. Thus, if you are getting low, you need to take a break or slow down to keep your O2 levels from going too low.
I was able to pick up the 55 for $159. Do far no complaints
Where did you get it for 159?
@@kaisnawa our Base Exchange.
That's a crazy low price!
I've just bought the 245
Thanks.
Great video, any plans to do a FR 245 vs FR 255 video? I’m debating between these two. 245 on discount since 255 released.
At some point yes!
hello, thanks for this video review. 1) I'm also considering the forerunner 55 vs venu 2. I'm using it mainly to broadcast heart rate to the Garmin edge 530 when cycling, and to track my occasional jogs (maybe twice a month, 5 km each time). Which would be recommended? Welcome other models to be recommended too.
2) will be mainly using it for my night cycling and jogs. Is the screen (transflective memory-in-pixel) on the FR55 suitable for use at night?
Thanks.
The Forerunner 55 is a better sport watch in my opinion but the Venu 2 has advantages in wellness tracking and smart watch features. I prefer the transflective display for running/riding because it's easier to see at a glance. At night it has an auto-backlight as well.
@@ChaseTheSummit thanks! Will go for FR55 🤩
Very thorough and helpful! What about bike training with this watch?
My channel mainly revolves around running but both of these watches will work for cycling as well. Unfortunately neither of these watches can pair to cycling power sensors though which might be a drawback!
@@ChaseTheSummit Thanks! That's what I needed to know!
Forerunner 55🎉
Maybe a weird question: with Covid I started running (in addition to playing a lot of tennis in the summer and a little less in the winter) and enjoyed a vivoactive 3 for a few years though clearly, it has some heart-rate issues. Since I live in Canada, the winter is spent doing running, cross-country-skiing and indoor tennis and indoor cycling. I am wondering about an upgrade from the vivoactive 3. Key additional features: more activity features (add Yoga, trail hiking), better fitness/recovery status , maps a plus since I am starting to get bored of the neighborhoods, connectivity to other trackers (I won't be improving power in my 60s). I am hoping to get more cycling and cross-country-skiing (even roll-skis in the summer). I am looking at all brands and options and it is really hard to see through though I am probably not the only one in his 50s who tries to be active (but can't do it all running as his knees would complain) and must avoid overreaching while trying to maintain endurance, strength and flexibility. Any thoughts on brands or appropriate vivo price level watches per brand?
I think moving up to a Forerunner 945 or similar would probably suit your needs and cover more activities. Currently there are some fantastic deals out there for the holidays!
thank you
Welcome!
Easy answer. 945 LTE
I am looking for a garmin watch for hiking and good gps can track my trail. I don't necessarily use the garmin map during the trail, but just would like to have all my trails track extracted in my computer. I am a beginner, do this for fun. And also want to record my gym, daily exercise, tennis etc. Which garmin would you suggest? Thanks
Nice review!! It helped me a lot. I have 2 questions though:
1. Can we change the data on watch face of fr55 eg. Heart rate, step counts, calories burned, etc. Same as the 245?
2. Can we change the background color of the watch face of fr55 from black / white?
Thanks in advance!!
1. Yes fully customizable.
2. Yes you can change the watch face BG!
Im still using the FR645 music
Still a good watch!
The only thing that is putting me off the 55 is the screen size and resolution. I currently have a 230 which now has a hairline crack, so i am forced to upgrade. If the 55 screen size is smaller than the 230 then I will definitely go for the 245, otherwise the 55 will be more than sufficient
Yep, it's not the biggest or brightest screen unfortunately. But it is the "budget option" so it's not surprising.
@@ChaseTheSummit went for the 245 through the trade up programme with a 30% discount
Hi does the FR55 show recovery time needed after any activity recorded? Or only running and cycling? Thanks
Great videos, but your intro is too loud, have to lower the volume on tv all the time
955❤
Thank you for the video! Can you read new incoming notifications while you are training with forerunner 55?
Yes you can!
Great overview! Loved the thoroughness. Great job!
Thanks Hunter!
On 55 we can adjust the backlight brightness, default is 20
Oddly, I think they added that feature in a firmware update.
For heart rate comparison, where you wear the watches during activity? Please do comparison by switching position too. If same hand 2 watches, try switch place and check difference. If 2 watches on different hand, please switch and retest. Is the tracking differences still same?
In my testing I do several runs (between 5-15 depending on the video) and during those runs I wear the watches on my left/right wrist. I also alternate the watches location on every run and note which watch was on which wrist. For a baseline of comparison I also wear a chest based ECG sensor. This is about as scientific as I can get. Thanks for watching!
Hello, thank you very much for the video. I've never owned a Garmin watch but was thinking of getting one. Would you say that the Garmin 245 is still an ideal watch to get even with the latest Garmin 255 that came out this year?
If you can't afford the 255 the 245 isn't a bad option... The 255 is superior in just about every way.
@@ChaseTheSummit Got it. Thank you so much.
Great video man! I'm currently a bit stuck in what watch would be the best fit for me. Not really a big runner, but I'm a track and field athlete (javelin throw) so my training is very variable. If I'm looking mostly for a watch to help me track my strain levels from workouts and throughout a regular day, as well as my recovery levels from sleep - which of these two options are the better bang for my buck? And how would the Polar Pacer measure up to them? Thanks!
Have you seen the new Forerunner 255? Might want to check that out first!
@@ChaseTheSummit I have actually checked the info on the 255, but it is a bit out of my budget at the moment. I'm situated in South Africa, so prices are quite a bit inflated.
Forerunner 255 (non-music) - ZAR6999 (USD450)
Forerunner 245 (music) - ZAR4999 (USD325)
Forerunner 55 - ZAR3199 (USD205)
Polar Pacer - ZAR3999 (USD260)
Is the 255 really worth the extra investment? Or would one of the other options be able to do the trick?
@@ChaseTheSummit 😂😂😂
Great video, do you know anything about the training plans? I'm looking to upload a sub 20 minute 5k to my forerunner 55, and then it tells me what to do each day, is this possible?
This is possible. You'll need to find a training plan that works and manually input this into the Garmin Connect calendar to stay on track. Unfortunately Garmin Coach doesn't offer much more than basic training plans for 5k's and up to marathon distances.
Thanks for this helpful video, currently using the 245 but a little bumped out that it doesn’t have the HIIT training option. Any suggestion how I still can track my HIIT training using the 245 ?
Have you checked out the connect IQ store? There's gotta be something out there.
Connect IQ offers Tabata training, maybe you could check it out...
Hey, loved the video, it was very helpful. I have one question though, reading the specifications of these watches i noticed thar neither of these have an altimeter, so when you go on a trail run or something like that, does it measure the hight in some way?
Thanks! Elevation is calculated based on the GPS data after you complete your activity. So Strava will still show the gain but when you’re out on the run you have no way of seeing real-time elevation data. Hope that helps!
@@ChaseTheSummit Thanks!! Helps a lot!
It's a shame that garmin is gatekeeping useful statistics only for higher models, despite that it's probably just a matter of software. Otherwise if 55 had all these fitness stats it would be a great choice.
In some cases it’s software but it’s also important to remember that software isn’t always free. In the case of Garmin each device with advanced metrics is licensed from FirstBeat. It’s kind of like buying a computer with MS Office on board at a slightly inflated price. But yeah, I like CORO’s approach to providing ALL the features to ALL the watches. Thanks for watching!
@@ChaseTheSummit I didnt think about looking it from this angle, you are right!
What's odd is that in spite of the larger screen of 240x240 vs 208x208 legibility doesn't seem very different,i.e. still pretty small outside of running fields.
I guess you have to go to 260x260 and the F6 to really see a difference?
Yeah they’re pretty similar. Honestly the resolution doesn’t do much in terms of readability. It’s more about the font design and size of the font. It seems like increased resolution just makes things look sharper and prettier. Thanks for watching!
Is $140 a good price for this 4-year old (non-music version) device brand new in 2023?
Does the Garmin 55 show both current and average pace on screen at the same time while running?
You can customize it to do that yes.
I have a chance to earn one of these two through my insurance rewards program. I am torn, not sure if I will use all the features of the 245. But am concerned in the long run I will want more than the 55. I am runner, but a middle to back of the pack runner. I do weight and other gym classes days a week too. Thoughts? I think I am leaning 55. If you are in a workout, can you check messages/notifications if they come in? Your video made me think you cannot
Nice! Both will do the job. The 245 has a few advantages in terms of training tools and a slightly bigger display along with the music option. Both will display incoming notifications during a workout. Hope that helps!
Hello, how did you compare the gps accuracy and heart rate on your computer. Like how did put three activities on the same map.
I use a web app called quantified. DC Rainmaker also has an excellent tool on his website.
@@ChaseTheSummit can you please share the link could not find anything. Yes i know dc rainmaker analysis tool but its too costly for me. I basically want to compare pace and gps accuracy of two different devices.