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Overview
The Garmin Forerunner 255 builds on the success of its predecessor, offering advanced GPS, enhanced health features, and impressive battery performance—all in a comfortable, lightweight package. Its refined metrics and training tools make it a standout choice for serious runners and multisport athletes alike.
Key Features & Performance Highlights
- Long-Lasting Battery
- Smartwatch mode: up to 14 days, doubling the life of the Forerunner 245.
- GPS-only mode: up to 30 hours, ideal for ultramarathons or extended training. Tom’s GuideOutdoor OvernightsThe Guardian
- Charging is efficient—about 50% in under 30 minutes. Trusted Reviews
- Advanced GPS Technology
Includes multi-band (dual-frequency) GNSS, allowing more accurate tracking, particularly in environments like dense forests or urban canyons. Runner’s Worldgizmohopper.com - Comprehensive Health & Performance Metrics
Equipped with the Elevate V4 sensor, offering heart rate, Pulse Ox, stress, HRV, and breathing data. Includes new features like Morning Report and Health Snapshot for holistic health insights. Tom’s GuideWIRED - Design, Build & Comfort
Lightweight (approximately 49 g), available in 41 mm or 46 mm cases with transflective MIP displays that remain visible in sunlight. The Guardiangizmohopper.com - Training Mode & Multisport Support
Offers over 30 activity profiles including triathlon transitions, daily suggested workouts, PacePro pacing strategies, and Garmin Coach integration. Tom’s Guidemypicks.org - Smart Features & Connectivity
Delivers Garmin Pay, music storage on the Music edition (for up to 500 songs), notifications, and extensive app integration. Tom’s GuideOutdoor Overnights
Pros & Cons at a Glance
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Exceptional battery life (14 days Smartwatch, 30 hrs GPS) | No touchscreen—navigation must be button-based |
| Highly accurate multi-band GPS | Music playback drains battery faster Reddit |
| Lightweight, comfortable design | Music version comes at higher cost |
| Advanced health analytics & recovery insights | Display isn’t AMOLED (transflective only) |
| Strong multisport, race and training tools | — |
What Reviewers Think
- Tom’s Guide found battery claims accurate, praised Morning Report, and appreciated its performance-ready features. Tom’s Guide
- Wired highlights the addition of multiband GPS, barometric altimeter, and enhanced sleep tracking—calling it a substantial update over the 245. WIRED
- Runner’s World emphasized cleaner and smoother GPS tracking thanks to dual-frequency support. Runner’s World
Final Verdict
The Garmin Forerunner 255 nails the balance between training-focused features, comfort, and battery longevity all at a mid-tier price. Whether you’re logging everyday runs or training for your next race, it delivers detailed insights without frequent charging.
