My current watch is the Garmin Forerunner 15! I've had it since it came out in 2014! My FR 15 still works great, but I might be looking for an upgrade soon. I've been looking into getting the Garmin Forerunner 55! It looks budget friendly and has the basic things that I'm looking for!
I bought this watch more because i run around the office and did not want some full featured watch, something with buttons that will last me a week and look good and that is durable was a win for me.
That's exciting, Suzie! I have always been super into GPS watches and wonder how some of my friends could ever just track their run with their phone haha. What watch are you currently using?
@@runningwithjane yeah. I am itching to get something better myself. I can't wait. It just feels weird to get something new when the old one works perfect
I had the fr55, it works and is great value. The big difference upgrading tothe 245 is that the whole package is way slicker= faster, smoother, connects to gps almost instantly. For me, it’s worth paying the difference.
Bought the Garmin Forerunner 55 this week, but was torn between this and the 255 or 265. I just use and wear it for running only so I wanted something simple, even though this has way more features than what I wanted . The GPS works fine but would prefer multi-band. Really like the 55, it does its job well and it. The display is transflective and I like that. Unfortunately, Garmin will probably move all their products over to amoled displays. I recommend the 55. Nice review, the 55 tends to get overlooked.
I was torn between this and the 245. I purchased the 55 and have no regrets. I get the coach, recommendations, and the connect app pushes me how to videos. I'm an ameature runner and don't believe the analytics would matter that much for me.
Super helpful info, Adam, thanks for sharing! I haven't owned the 245, but I do know the 55 really closed the gap between that and the previous 45. I alternate btwn my Fenix and the FR55 without batting an eye.
@@cdtarlit yes, you can set it up on the watch to where you can receive notifications during an activity if you'd like. You actually can go back to the clock screen to see what time it is during an activity...you do this by clicking the bottom left button. On mine I can scroll through the time of day, HR, and the two different data screens I have set up for running.
Great video it’s sums up pretty much everything you need to know about this watch. Recently I got super into track and I’ve been working on justifying to myself that something like this would help me (for context I already have a basic nice watch with a stopwatch feature). Otherwise I’m also happy for the clarification on the Garmin coach feature as most videos don’t explain it.
@@runningwithjane I just started using the run/walk method today due to injury and am happy that it has the ability to alert you when to run and walk. It was really easy to set up and you can customize it to the timing ratio you want.
This is such an excellent point and thanks for bringing that to my/everyone's attention! I hope run/walk gets your knee on the mend sooner while still getting the miles you need.
Thank you for the reviews of this watch and the Coros Pace 2! I just ordered the FR55 today. I think it was my best bet. I am starting my XC season in a few days (I've never ran XC before and am kind of new to running) and wanted a good GPS watch. Garmin watches have always done well for my dad, who is on his 3rd or 4th which is the FR225 like you upgraded from! Thank you again for the great reviews of these watches!
So glad you found the reviews helpful! I know you're going to love the Forerunner 55...it really has everything you need as a runner. That's exciting about your XC season coming up - all the best and have fun out there!
Edit: The watch is 37 grams, not 39. If you want more watch reviews, you can find them all here: ua-cam.com/play/PLOKNQ9nLWsSghB3boleuqw_D1ebB62m6z.html
Have you played with the settings to make it as bright as you can? Even then, I know it's not the same as the brightness you get from a touchscreen, but that's also what makes it great in sunlight.
Hello Jane! Really genuin and objective reviews! I´m on my tapering days just before the Lisbon Marathon on this month the 17th and i really need a running watch. I´ve seen the Coros Pace 2 review and now the Garmin 55 and i still didn´t make up my mind. My only concern is about the Garmin information size: I use glasses only for reading the paper and the labels information about calories and stuff, you know. I prefer the Garmin but the numbers look small. What do you think? Many thanks!
Hi Miguel! That is an excellent question and I just got both out and put them side by side so I could answer this correctly for you. They are actually very similar in the size of the text. The words on the Coros are a tad smaller but the resolution is a bit better which may make it easier to read. Your best bet is to put less options on the screen at a time with whichever you choose. For example, you could choose to only have 1 or two elements on the screen at a time (such as lap pace and distance) or you could choose to have 4 or 5...the more you have on there the harder it will be to read. In the end, I think they are very similar in this area so if you're leaning toward the Garmin I'd choose that one!
I'm kind of in the same boat. I've actually ordered the Pace 2 and the Forerunner 55 so that I can determine which one I prefer. Then, I'll keep one and return the other. The Pace 2 is already here and I've used it on a handful of runs. There's a lot to like about it. However, for the size of the watch face, the print is surprisingly small. Even when you're only using 1 metric on a workout screen, it really seems like they could have made the numbers quite a bit bigger. I can see them fine without glasses. But I wouldn't mind them being larger. The 55 is supposed to arrive tomorrow, so we'll see how it stacks up.
The font size doesn't bother me, but I do agree it's small and might be difficult for some to read if small print is an issue. An option in the future to increase somehow would be helpful for sure! Would love to hear what you decide btwn the 2 watches!
Hi, I am a cyclist, I need Garmin watch for recovery data, sleep, and hydration for my training. Which one should I get with the best budget, Forerunner 55 or Venu Sq?
Hands down I would choose the Forerunner 55. It is my go to watch right now (and I have a handful to choose from)...accurately tracks everything I need. Plus, the touchscreen on the Venu is just not very conducive for outdoor athletes. Hope that helps!
@@runningwithjane Thanks for the recommendation 🙏. Do forerunner 55 have feature like recovery, like the watch will told us to rest for 2-3 days to recover
Thanks for the video. Even if it is 2 years old, I would like to ask you something about the watch. Is it possible to show heartrate zone with other metrics like pace and distance in one screen during a run? I´d really appreciate an answer as I am thinking to get this watch as a new runner. Thanks a lot Jane!
please be honest is the sleep tracking any good ? I have seen 40$ Bands having a great accuracy for sleep tracking is this good for sleep tracking or just for running ?
The sleep tracking on this Garmin is comparable to my much more expensive Fenix. It tracks deep sleep, light sleep and REM sleep. If you lay in bed awake it doesn't seem to be able to detect that you're not sleeping which is something I wish it could do. If you keep pretty standard sleep hours and wear it consistently, it will probably be pretty accurate for you but it's not perfect. Hope that helps!
I want a watch for checking the heart rate during running. I have watched several reviews but have still not got the answer about if this is possible. With other words: can I get the heart rate in big digits?
I want a wrist display to show my heart rate (large) from my ECG strap (H10) in color representing of my target zone, with rapid accurate beat to beat updates (one to three seconds). Will this Forerunner 55 do that? If so, how long will it last continuously in that mode (display on, BT-LE HR, no optical HR)?
I am getting more into running and training for a 1/2 marathon. I have an apple watch but feel like this might be a better option for accuracy. What is your opinion? I like all the specs the Garmin gives but I am just not sure.
Hands down I would choose this for running over an Apple watch. In fact, I have one and it has sat in my drawer since the day I got a Garmin Fenix haha. Apple watches are awesome for everyday, but when it comes to tracking for running there isn't a comparison in my opinion.
Hey - thanks for your question! The display is easy to read - but there is some pixelation you can see. It's not amazing, but I think it's pretty good at this price point. There appears to be 6 options to choose from already on the watch and more options you can get from Garmin Connect.
Great question, Jes! iDuck, that is correct - they are plastic on the FR55. And since I didn't say it, either - the screen is made of "chemically-strengthened glass."
Can we record the data in Garmin Forerunner 55 without carrying a smartphone? and would it record with good accuracy or the accuracy will get compromised because of not using the smartphone?
Absolutely! No need to have a smartphone with you to record anything related to running (accuracy is exactly the same either way). You just need to have your phone with you if you want to use the safety features such as Livetrack or be able to scroll through music.
I'm Indian looking for watch like this. I don't want to charge watch frequently. I need something that can support running, gym exercises and sometime other physical work (working as farmer). I would like to do mix plan like doing running for few days in week and rest gym exercise. I'm neither regular runner and gymmer. I'm confused in Forerunner 55 and Venu. I have tight budget. I can go with anyone if it impresses me. Which one would you suggest to me?
Hello Dharmender - Though I haven't personally tested the Venu, I know enough to know that I would choose the FR55. For both exercise and physical work outdoors, it is the better option of the 2. The one downfall is that the FR55 looks "sporty" whereas the Venu has a much sleeker look to it. Because the Venu has a touchscreen it will be more difficult to see outdoors and is more difficult to manipulate the screen if you're sweaty or wearing gloves. Forerunner 55 gets my vote!
@@runningwithjane Thanks for your response and clarification! I appreciate that. Instead of Venu, would it be worthy to purchase Instinct (without solar) which is little costly? Is it discontinued and have older sensor? I would be in favour of FR55.
just got the 55 a few weeks ago and it's great very accurate and battery life is what i like best
Yes, it's so great!
My current watch is the Garmin Forerunner 15! I've had it since it came out in 2014! My FR 15 still works great, but I might be looking for an upgrade soon. I've been looking into getting the Garmin Forerunner 55! It looks budget friendly and has the basic things that I'm looking for!
I love this watch. Ive had it about a year now and it has all the features I need! Super happy with it, especially the awesome battery life.
It's my favorite!
Love your genuine perspective. Thanks!
You got it! Thanks so much for watching, Karli!
I bought this watch more because i run around the office and did not want some full featured watch, something with buttons that will last me a week and look good and that is durable was a win for me.
Yes!! Not all the bells and whistles but it really is a great watch!
I am getting a new watch for Christmas... so I am glad you are doing this
That's exciting, Suzie! I have always been super into GPS watches and wonder how some of my friends could ever just track their run with their phone haha. What watch are you currently using?
@@runningwithjane I have a Garmin Forerunner 235. It's obviously old lol.
Hey my husband is still running with his even older FR 225 and it's worked well for his runs for years! He's itching to get the 945 LTE though!
@@runningwithjane yeah. I am itching to get something better myself. I can't wait. It just feels weird to get something new when the old one works perfect
Yes, just about to get mine through the mail, ticks my every box.
I love mine still...and this video was nearly two years ago.
I had the fr55, it works and is great value. The big difference upgrading tothe 245 is that the whole package is way slicker= faster, smoother, connects to gps almost instantly. For me, it’s worth paying the difference.
Totally agree. I got my husband the newest 255 for his birthday and it's awesome!
Bought the Garmin Forerunner 55 this week, but was torn between this and the 255 or 265. I just use and wear it for running only so I wanted something simple, even though this has way more features than what I wanted . The GPS works fine but would prefer multi-band. Really like the 55, it does its job well and it. The display is transflective and I like that. Unfortunately, Garmin will probably move all their products over to amoled displays. I recommend the 55. Nice review, the 55 tends to get overlooked.
Glad it's working for you!! Yes, it does the job for running!
Yeah would be cool to have a comparison of the GPS.
Dual band was one of the reasons I got the 255 (together with altimeter, music, etc).
It might not be much, but I bought a Forerunner 55 using your link today.
I really appreciate that, Michael! I hope you're enjoying your new watch!
I was torn between this and the 245. I purchased the 55 and have no regrets. I get the coach, recommendations, and the connect app pushes me how to videos. I'm an ameature runner and don't believe the analytics would matter that much for me.
Super helpful info, Adam, thanks for sharing! I haven't owned the 245, but I do know the 55 really closed the gap between that and the previous 45. I alternate btwn my Fenix and the FR55 without batting an eye.
Can you check notifications or go back to the clock screen while an activity is running?
@@cdtarlit you cannot. When you are in an activity you have to end it before you can see times. I’m not sure if notifications pop up during activity.
@@cdtarlit yes, you can set it up on the watch to where you can receive notifications during an activity if you'd like. You actually can go back to the clock screen to see what time it is during an activity...you do this by clicking the bottom left button. On mine I can scroll through the time of day, HR, and the two different data screens I have set up for running.
Great video it’s sums up pretty much everything you need to know about this watch. Recently I got super into track and I’ve been working on justifying to myself that something like this would help me (for context I already have a basic nice watch with a stopwatch feature). Otherwise I’m also happy for the clarification on the Garmin coach feature as most videos don’t explain it.
Thank you for the great review - I just ordered one and cannot wait to try it out.
It's a fantastic watch and has everything most road runners will need! (Just emailed you back regarding coaching by the way.)
@@runningwithjane I just started using the run/walk method today due to injury and am happy that it has the ability to alert you when to run and walk. It was really easy to set up and you can customize it to the timing ratio you want.
This is such an excellent point and thanks for bringing that to my/everyone's attention! I hope run/walk gets your knee on the mend sooner while still getting the miles you need.
Great review Jane! Thank you for sharing your honest opinion (plus love the teal color!)
Of course - thanks for watching, Alexia!
I’m getting mine in March same color as you for Zwift can’t wait I’m Excited
@@ericgonzales3418 I hope you love it!
Thank you for the reviews of this watch and the Coros Pace 2! I just ordered the FR55 today. I think it was my best bet. I am starting my XC season in a few days (I've never ran XC before and am kind of new to running) and wanted a good GPS watch. Garmin watches have always done well for my dad, who is on his 3rd or 4th which is the FR225 like you upgraded from! Thank you again for the great reviews of these watches!
So glad you found the reviews helpful! I know you're going to love the Forerunner 55...it really has everything you need as a runner. That's exciting about your XC season coming up - all the best and have fun out there!
@@runningwithjane Thank you!
Really appreciate your view. Want this watch so bad after seeing your review. 😁
Thanks for "watch"ing!! It is such a good one and my go to for every run now!
Nice review... You just convinced me to go Coros Pace 2!
It's really such a great watch!! I hope it's great for you, Paul!
Thank you so much for another great review, Jane! Cheers from Canada, Scott
My pleasure - thanks for watching!
Edit: The watch is 37 grams, not 39. If you want more watch reviews, you can find them all here: ua-cam.com/play/PLOKNQ9nLWsSghB3boleuqw_D1ebB62m6z.html
I like mine just wish it would-be brighter on the light
Have you played with the settings to make it as bright as you can? Even then, I know it's not the same as the brightness you get from a touchscreen, but that's also what makes it great in sunlight.
Great review! You deserve more subscribers.
Thank you, Nanda, I really appreciate that! Glad you found the review helpful!
great comparison video thanks. can i ask what face you used for your Forerunner 55 ?
Great video 👍
Thank you so much, Celine! I will have the Coros Pace 2 Review coming out shortly if you're interested in checking that budget watch out, as well!
Hello Jane! Really genuin and objective reviews! I´m on my tapering days just before the Lisbon Marathon on this month the 17th and i really need a running watch. I´ve seen the Coros Pace 2 review and now the Garmin 55 and i still didn´t make up my mind. My only concern is about the Garmin information size: I use glasses only for reading the paper and the labels information about calories and stuff, you know. I prefer the Garmin but the numbers look small. What do you think? Many thanks!
Hi Miguel! That is an excellent question and I just got both out and put them side by side so I could answer this correctly for you. They are actually very similar in the size of the text. The words on the Coros are a tad smaller but the resolution is a bit better which may make it easier to read. Your best bet is to put less options on the screen at a time with whichever you choose. For example, you could choose to only have 1 or two elements on the screen at a time (such as lap pace and distance) or you could choose to have 4 or 5...the more you have on there the harder it will be to read. In the end, I think they are very similar in this area so if you're leaning toward the Garmin I'd choose that one!
@@runningwithjane
Jane you are the best! Thank you so much for your time and advice. I'll try the Garmin. Ready for my Marathon!
You're welcome! Good luck in your race!!
I'm kind of in the same boat. I've actually ordered the Pace 2 and the Forerunner 55 so that I can determine which one I prefer. Then, I'll keep one and return the other. The Pace 2 is already here and I've used it on a handful of runs. There's a lot to like about it.
However, for the size of the watch face, the print is surprisingly small. Even when you're only using 1 metric on a workout screen, it really seems like they could have made the numbers quite a bit bigger. I can see them fine without glasses. But I wouldn't mind them being larger. The 55 is supposed to arrive tomorrow, so we'll see how it stacks up.
The font size doesn't bother me, but I do agree it's small and might be difficult for some to read if small print is an issue. An option in the future to increase somehow would be helpful for sure! Would love to hear what you decide btwn the 2 watches!
Hi, I am a cyclist, I need Garmin watch for recovery data, sleep, and hydration for my training. Which one should I get with the best budget, Forerunner 55 or Venu Sq?
Hands down I would choose the Forerunner 55. It is my go to watch right now (and I have a handful to choose from)...accurately tracks everything I need. Plus, the touchscreen on the Venu is just not very conducive for outdoor athletes. Hope that helps!
@@runningwithjane Thanks for the recommendation 🙏. Do forerunner 55 have feature like recovery, like the watch will told us to rest for 2-3 days to recover
Thanks for the video. Even if it is 2 years old, I would like to ask you something about the watch. Is it possible to show heartrate zone with other metrics like pace and distance in one screen during a run? I´d really appreciate an answer as I am thinking to get this watch as a new runner. Thanks a lot Jane!
Yes, you can customize the data screen(s) exactly as you want! This is still the watch I use for all my runs.
thats great to hear, thanks so much for the fast reply@@runningwithjane enjoy your day and have a great weekend!
Don't you mind the awful saw-tooth graphics display resolution? I was horrified! Otherwise great though.
LOL I don't, but I'm also pretty accustomed to Garmin. Apple watch users may find the transition difficult, I suppose!
please be honest
is the sleep tracking any good ?
I have seen 40$ Bands having a great accuracy for sleep tracking
is this good for sleep tracking or just for running ?
The sleep tracking on this Garmin is comparable to my much more expensive Fenix. It tracks deep sleep, light sleep and REM sleep. If you lay in bed awake it doesn't seem to be able to detect that you're not sleeping which is something I wish it could do. If you keep pretty standard sleep hours and wear it consistently, it will probably be pretty accurate for you but it's not perfect. Hope that helps!
I want a watch for checking the heart rate during running. I have watched several reviews but have still not got the answer about if this is possible. With other words: can I get the heart rate in big digits?
Yep. I have a screen on mine that is just HR and it is large. You can choose how many screens you have to click through and what's on them.
@@runningwithjane
Thank you!
it's charging port is open so won't it get affected by water or dust?
Nope!
@@runningwithjane i bought garmin 55, and when i start record without moving it is still counting the distance, so what is this thing?
support.garmin.com/en-US/?faq=z0n0KE1XVF0Pe4Su8QiZgA I would pause your watch when not moving if you want the most accuracy.
I want a wrist display to show my heart rate (large) from my ECG strap (H10) in color representing of my target zone, with rapid accurate beat to beat updates (one to three seconds). Will this Forerunner 55 do that? If so, how long will it last continuously in that mode (display on, BT-LE HR, no optical HR)?
Hi, I want to ask if this watch shows the work of the heart?
Yes, it measures heartrate! It's actually pretty accurate for a wrist-based monitor.
Thank you very much, I'll definitely take it 😊
I am getting more into running and training for a 1/2 marathon. I have an apple watch but feel like this might be a better option for accuracy. What is your opinion? I like all the specs the Garmin gives but I am just not sure.
Hands down I would choose this for running over an Apple watch. In fact, I have one and it has sat in my drawer since the day I got a Garmin Fenix haha. Apple watches are awesome for everyday, but when it comes to tracking for running there isn't a comparison in my opinion.
Thanks so much! That’s what I have come to the conclusion of after my research. I can’t wait to get my Garmin in!!
How's the display of the watch faces? How many watch faces does it have by default?
Hey - thanks for your question! The display is easy to read - but there is some pixelation you can see. It's not amazing, but I think it's pretty good at this price point. There appears to be 6 options to choose from already on the watch and more options you can get from Garmin Connect.
can you use this for cycling?
Yes, there is a bike/cycling setting for outdoor!
@@runningwithjane thank you
Can you use this for Stationary bike? I only see cycling.
According to this, it has indoor bike! support.garmin.com/en-US/?faq=g9VOolzNBr08b7mfclmxt7
Are the buttons made of steel?
I think they are metal on the 245 but plastic on the 55
Great question, Jes! iDuck, that is correct - they are plastic on the FR55. And since I didn't say it, either - the screen is made of "chemically-strengthened glass."
Copy that, thanks for the response.
Can we record the data in Garmin Forerunner 55 without carrying a smartphone? and would it record with good accuracy or the accuracy will get compromised because of not using the smartphone?
Absolutely! No need to have a smartphone with you to record anything related to running (accuracy is exactly the same either way). You just need to have your phone with you if you want to use the safety features such as Livetrack or be able to scroll through music.
@@runningwithjane thank you very much for sharing the information. I'm about to buy this for my hundred days of running challenge.
I love it!
@@runningwithjane is it waterproof, can we use it in heavy rain.. And would bubbles appear in it??
You can swim in it! Fully waterproof.
How much for pilipines money?
Hi Irene - not sure.
I'm Indian looking for watch like this. I don't want to charge watch frequently. I need something that can support running, gym exercises and sometime other physical work (working as farmer). I would like to do mix plan like doing running for few days in week and rest gym exercise. I'm neither regular runner and gymmer. I'm confused in Forerunner 55 and Venu. I have tight budget. I can go with anyone if it impresses me. Which one would you suggest to me?
Hello Dharmender - Though I haven't personally tested the Venu, I know enough to know that I would choose the FR55. For both exercise and physical work outdoors, it is the better option of the 2. The one downfall is that the FR55 looks "sporty" whereas the Venu has a much sleeker look to it. Because the Venu has a touchscreen it will be more difficult to see outdoors and is more difficult to manipulate the screen if you're sweaty or wearing gloves. Forerunner 55 gets my vote!
@@runningwithjane Thanks for your response and clarification! I appreciate that. Instead of Venu, would it be worthy to purchase Instinct (without solar) which is little costly? Is it discontinued and have older sensor? I would be in favour of FR55.
@@DharmenderTongar Instinct is definitely a tough watch and definitely more to it than a FR55. I think either would be a great choice.