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If you’re a runner contemplating an upgrade from your Garmin Forerunner 245, you’ve likely found yourself weighing the Forerunner 955 against the Forerunner 255. Both are excellent choices, but they cater to slightly different needs and budgets. Let’s break down the key differences to help you decide which one suits you best.
Forerunner 955: The Premium Option
The Garmin Forerunner 955 is Garmin’s top-tier running watch designed for serious athletes and multisport enthusiasts. Here’s what sets it apart:
Key Features:
- Training Readiness: Combines sleep, recovery, and activity data to show how prepared you are for your next workout.
- Multi-Band GPS: Provides ultra-precise GPS tracking, even in challenging environments like dense forests or urban areas.
- Full-Color Maps: On-wrist maps are a game-changer for trail runners, helping you navigate without pulling out your phone.
- Touchscreen with Button Control: A hybrid interface that’s intuitive and versatile.
- Music Storage: Sync playlists from Spotify, Amazon Music, or Deezer directly to your watch.
Best For:
- Trail and ultramarathon runners who need detailed maps and navigation.
- Athletes looking for advanced performance metrics and recovery insights.
- Those willing to invest in premium features for a high-end experience.
Forerunner 255: The Budget-Friendly Performer
The Garmin Forerunner 255 is a mid-range running watch packed with advanced features that cater to most runners’ needs. It’s a strong contender for those who want top-tier functionality without breaking the bank.
Key Features:
- Multi-Band GPS: Like the 955, the 255 offers excellent GPS accuracy for road and trail running.
- Training Status and Load: Track your fitness progression and recovery over time.
- Morning Report: A daily overview of your sleep, recovery, and upcoming training.
- Music Support: Available on the 255 Music variant, letting you enjoy tunes on the go.
- Lightweight Design: Slightly smaller and lighter than the 955, making it ideal for everyday wear.
Best For:
- Runners who don’t need full maps but want high accuracy and performance tracking.
- Budget-conscious athletes looking for a feature-rich watch.
- Those who value simplicity and ease of use.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Feature | Forerunner 955 | Forerunner 255 |
|---|---|---|
| Price | Higher | Lower |
| Multi-Band GPS | Yes | Yes |
| Full-Color Maps | Yes | No |
| Training Readiness | Yes | No |
| Battery Life (Smartwatch Mode) | Up to 15 days | Up to 14 days |
| Weight | Slightly heavier | Lightweight |
| Music Support | Yes | Optional (Music model) |
Which One Should You Choose?
Pick the Forerunner 955 If:
- You frequently run trails and need navigation tools like full-color maps.
- Training readiness metrics are important for optimizing your workouts.
- You want a top-of-the-line watch with all the bells and whistles.
Pick the Forerunner 255 If:
- You’re focused on core running features like GPS accuracy and fitness tracking.
- You want a lightweight, comfortable watch for everyday use.
- Budget is a key consideration, and you’d prefer to save while still getting great performance.
Final Thoughts
Both the Garmin Forerunner 955 and 255 are excellent running watches tailored to different needs. The 955 shines as a premium option with advanced features that appeal to competitive athletes and trail runners. Meanwhile, the 255 offers incredible value, delivering most of what runners need without overspending.
For those who value maps, training readiness, and every cutting-edge feature Garmin offers, the Forerunner 955 is the way to go. But if you’re looking for a reliable, budget-friendly upgrade that checks all the essential boxes, the Forerunner 255 won’t disappoint.
Take stock of your running habits and priorities to find the perfect fit for your wrist—and your runs.
