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Garmin Forerunner 55 and Garmin Forerunner 45 are two top fitness smartwatches for GPS tracking, training tools, and smart features. The Garmin Forerunner 55 is the newer and more advanced model with improve usability and fitness tracking. The Forerunner 45 remains a solid and affordable option with reliable performance. This comparison will help you decide which one fits your lifestyle best.
Feature-by-Feature Breakdown
Processor:
- Garmin Forerunner 55 features an upgraded processor that improves performance during GPS tracking and daily use.
- Garmin Forerunner 45 uses an older processor that is sufficient for basic fitness tracking.
Winner:
Garmin Forerunner 55
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Battery Life:
- Garmin Forerunner 55 has a battery that lasts up to 2 weeks in smartwatch mode and up to 20 hours in GPS mode to support long usage.
- Garmin Forerunner 45 delivers up to 7 days of battery life in smartwatch mode and 13 hours in GPS mode.
Winner:
Garmin Forerunner 55
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Fitness Features:
- Garmin Forerunner 55 supports advanced metrics like cadence alerts, fitness age, daily suggested workouts, and recovery time to guide performance improvement.
- Garmin Forerunner 45 includes basic features like heart rate, distance, pace, and Garmin Coach.
Winner:
Garmin Forerunner 55
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Operating System:
- Garmin Forerunner 55 includes a latest Garmin OS version that supports advanced metrics like cadence alerts and recovery time.
- Garmin Forerunner 45 runs an older version of Garmin’s OS with fewer advanced training metrics.
Winner:
Garmin Forerunner 55
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GPS Tracking:
- Garmin Forerunner 55 includes GPS, GLONASS, and Galileo support that improves accuracy in challenging environments.
- Garmin Forerunner 45 supports GPS and GLONASS without Galileo.
Winner:
Garmin Forerunner 55
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Sleep Tracking:
- Garmin Forerunner 55 includes sleep tracking that helps monitor rest patterns for better recovery.
- Garmin Forerunner 45 includes basic sleep tracking features.
Winner:
Garmin Forerunner 55
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Activity Mode:
- Garmin Forerunner 55 includes over 20 activity modes such as HIIT, track run, virtual run, and pilates to expand workout versatility.
- Garmin Forerunner 45 supports fewer activity profiles, mainly focused on running and cycling.
Winner:
Garmin Forerunner 55
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Specs at a Glance
| Feature |
Garmin Forerunner 55 |
Garmin Forerunner 45 |
| Display Size |
1.04-inch |
1.04-inch |
| Display Resolution |
208 x 208 pixels |
208 x 208 pixels |
| Display Type |
Sunlight-visible, transflective memory-in-pixel |
Sunlight-visible, transflective memory-in-pixel |
| Battery Life |
Up to 2 weeks (smartwatch mode) |
Up to 7 days (smartwatch mode) |
| GPS Battery Life |
Up to 20 hours |
Up to 13 hours |
| Processor |
Improved processor |
Standard processor |
| Sport Modes |
Over 20, including HIIT, Virtual Run, Track Run |
Fewer modes, no HIIT or Track Run |
| Training Features |
Daily Suggested Workouts, Recovery Time |
Garmin Coach support |
| Health Features |
Respiration Rate, Fitness Age, Women’s Health |
Basic heart rate tracking only |
Who Should Buy What?
Buy the Garmin Forerunner 55 if you:
- Want a longer-lasting battery for frequent outdoor workouts
- Need support for advanced training features like HIIT, track mode, and virtual run
- Prefer daily suggested workouts and recovery insights for guided planning
- Value added health tracking like respiration and fitness age
- Want the newer model with better future-proofing
Check Garmin Forerunner 55 Best Price
Buy the Garmin Forerunner 45 if you:
- Are looking for a more affordable entry-level GPS running watch
- Prefer a simpler interface with no extra training features
- Don’t need HIIT, track mode, or other advanced sport profiles
- Primarily want basic GPS and heart rate tracking for light workouts
- Appreciate a lightweight design with reliable performance at a lower cost
Check Forerunner 45 Best Price |
Winner by Category
| Category |
Winner |
| Processor |
Garmin Forerunner 55 |
| Battery Life |
Garmin Forerunner 55 |
| Sport Mode |
Garmin Forerunner 55 |
| Action Button |
Garmin Forerunner 55 |
| Health & Fitness |
Garmin Forerunner 55 |
| Design |
Garmin Forerunner 55 |
FAQ
Does the Garmin Forerunner 55 support daily suggested workouts?
Yes, the Forerunner 55 includes daily suggested workouts based on your training history, fitness level, and recovery time, which is not available on the Forerunner 45.
Can I use either watch for swimming?
Yes, both the Forerunner 55 and Forerunner 45 have a 5 ATM water resistance rating, making them suitable for swimming and showering.
Which watch has better battery life?
The Forerunner 55 lasts up to 2 weeks in smartwatch mode and 20 hours in GPS mode, while the Forerunner 45 offers up to 7 days in smartwatch mode and 13 hours in GPS mode.
Is women’s health tracking available on both models?
No, only the Garmin Forerunner 55 supports women’s health tracking features such as menstrual cycle and pregnancy tracking.
Can I download music to the Garmin Forerunner 55 or 45?
No, neither watch has built-in music storage or support for offline music playback.
Do these watches have touchscreens?
No, both the Forerunner 55 and Forerunner 45 use a 5-button interface without touchscreen functionality.
Is there a difference in display quality between the two watches?
No, both models have the same 1.04-inch MIP display with a 208 x 208 resolution, offering similar clarity and readability.
Do both models support smartphone notifications?
Yes, both watches can display smartphone notifications such as calls, texts, and app alerts when paired with a compatible phone.
Which model is better for advanced runners?
The Garmin Forerunner 55 is better suited for advanced runners due to features like cadence alerts, virtual run, track mode, and recovery time tracking.