Garmin GPS Watch Buyer’s Guide
and Feature Comparison Charts

The Garmin Forerunner™ series is Garmin's primary GPS watch product line for runners and triathletes and is considered the industry standard when it comes to running watches.

I have been using Garmin watches since 2009 and I recommend Garmin watches to my coaching clients. While other watches do exist and some do a great job, the following watches are among the best running watches you can buy.

Please note: “As an Amazon Associate I may earn from qualifying purchases.”

Quick Links

Which Running Watch Should I Buy?

This is a common questions I receive as a running coach. The correct answer is, "it depends".

Choosing the right watch depends on what features you would like to have, how you plan to use the watch, and your budget.

Generally speaking, the average runner does not need a high priced, high end watch unless you are really into technology and data.  Most entry level and moderate level watches will do everything the average runner will ever need. And do it well. 

The best way to use this comparison guide is to figure out your budget and look for a watch in that specific price range that has the features you desire.

If a watch does not have the specific feature you want, then try the running watches found at a higher price range.

In terms of accuracy with distance and pace, a more expensive watch does not necessarily mean it is more accurate.

For example, Garmin's Forerunner 45 is at the entry/mid level price point and has outperformed some of my older, higher end watches because the Garmin 45 comes with newer hardware and the latest heart rate sensors found only on their newer watches.  I share my personal experiences with the Garmin 45 in my detailed review.

It is one of several running watches I own in the Garmin product line.

My Feature Comparison and Product Review Process

Important: When I do 'feature comparisons', I compare watch features based on the information provided by the manufacturer. Feature comparisons are generally in a chart format. When I do a 'review' for a particular watch, I do it by sharing my personal experience using the watch. If I have not used the watch, there is not a review.

If I review a running watch, I purchased it with my own money. I am sharing my personal experience and therefore, I am not influenced by free products from the manufacturer. If you do not see a detailed review on a certain watch, it is because I have not personally purchased it. In that case, look at our feature comparisons gathered from the Garmin website and check out some of the third party customer reviews like those we link to below.

Comparison Of Garmin Forerunner 35 vs Garmin Forerunner 45

Main Differences Between the Garmin 35 and Garmin 45:

Both Watches Share the Following Features:

Physical Specifications of Garmin FR235 and FR245:

If you are looking for a great mid-range quality option, you can't go wrong with the Garmin 235 and 245 models. These running watches are the workhorse's when it comes to GPS watches.                                      

I personally own the Forerunner 235 and it has been a great watch. Watches in this price category level tend to have faster connection times to access the satellite and more advanced options and integrated training tools.

Comparison Of Garmin Forerunner 235 vs Garmin Forerunner 245

Main Differences Between the Garmin 235 and Garmin 245:

Both Watches Share the Following Features:

Physical Specifications of Garmin FR235 and FR245:

If you are working to become the next great runner and your cardio-intensive training goals require more than just an average GPS watch, Garmin FR 935, Garmin FR 945, Garmin Fenix 5 Sapphire, Garmin Fenix Sapphire 6 Pro are currently the best GPS watches to choose from.

The Premium Garmin GPS watches not only track your every move and position but provide in-depth fitness and health analysis. These are helpful and reliable running companions for marathon trainees and serious athletes.

The Fenix series is Garmin's high end sports watch. I own a Fenix 5 and it is amazing. The Fenix series are sports watches that can be worn with work clothes and looks like a regular watch.  The Fenix 5 is a back model, with the release of the Fenix 6 but available about $200 cheaper than it was when the watch first came out. Compared to the 200 series watches, these are a little heavier so make sure you are OK with a slightly heavier watch.