Garmin Forerunner 55 Review

The Forerunner 55 focuses on providing great GPS watch features in a slim, lightweight package. We are impressed with the value of this model, given its size and offerings. We are glad that this price point exists in the GPS watch market.

The light, small case size of the 55 is great for those with smaller wrists or those looking for a lightweight option. Whether this is your first GPS watch or one dedicated to running and races, we think you should consider this model. Even being one of the least expensive watches we tested, this model still features a color screen, heart-rate monitor, and the same Garmin interface found on high priced models.

Performance Comparison

Accuracy

To determine our accuracy score, we evaluated the GPS chipset and heart rate sensor. For the GPS test, each watch was taken on a predetermined 2.8-mile route, and the recorded distance was compared for accuracy. For heart rate testing, a watch was put on each wrist, then, our tester ran half a mile and compared readings to our Polar H10 chest strap. The overall accuracy score was then derived from both sets of results. In order to keep weather conditions as consistent as possible, all GPS testing was done on the same day. For heart rate tests, all watches were secured equally to maintain a similar fit. We exported all data, aligning the timestamps to facilitate a fair comparison between the chest strap monitor and the GPS watches.

For the GPS test, the Forerunner 55 performed excellently, only being off 0.08. While this may sound like a lot on flat ground, our test course was extremely hilly, really testing the GPS connection. For heart rate, the model was +/- 1.68 BPM, off from our chest strap comparison. While both of these tests were very impressive with the accuracy of this model from such an inexpensive model.

Activity Use

The Forerunner 55 is a simplistic watch. While it doesn't have the same battery life, it does a great job of providing a simple, dependable experience. When compared to other watches at this price point, we think others provide better activity usage, but if you are interested in the Garmin ecosystem, then this model should provide all that you need to complete a workout or track your daily health.

This model lacks navigation, so we can't recommend it to those wanting to get off the beaten path, but if you already navigate with another device, then you could need something to track your activities. If you simply want the basics, don't feel like you need to spend more than the Garmin 55. This little watch can offer a great experience for those doing city miles or easy trails. For longer outings, you may want something with some more battery and a bigger, more easily readable screen.

Everyday Use

The Forerunner 55 has a more basic set of features than most of the watches we tested, and therefore, it's incredibly easy to use. The Garmin interface is user-friendly and fairly straightforward after you have a chance to learn their menu system. And if you're coming from another Garmin product, this one will be easy to dial in quickly.

We prefer the dedicated buttons on the Garmin models compared to the Coros counterparts. We find the scroll wheel at high outputs is difficult to handle precisely. If you rarely find yourself switching the data pages or if you use auto-scroll, this could be less of a factor for you.

The Garmin Connect App feels a bit dated, but we had no issues syncing our workouts, even with our test watches and phones connected to many watches simultaneously. Unlike some of the more premium options, you cannot change data fields and settings via the app for the Forerunner 55.

Extra Features

This model has a minimal amount of features compared to others we tested, and while it scores lower because of that, it doesn't mean it can't be for you. Even with its low price, you still receive a heart rate monitor, color screen, and some basic health metrics. If you find yourself overwhelmed with features and just want to hit start, we think this could be a perfect model.

We do wish this model had some simple route navigation or bread-crumb maps, but at this price point, that's a no-go. For more advanced navigation, a compass or altimeter is pretty crucial, neither of which is found in this model. But if you find yourself on a known path or aren't venturing far into the backcountry, the Forerunner 55 will fit the bill.

Wearability

Due to the budget-friendly price, the materials on this model are less expensive, which results in a fairly basic design. This is one of the smaller case sizes we tested, so it's great for smaller wrists or those looking for the lightest design. The Forerunner series started as a running watch, and those attributes are still found on it today. It's sleek, slim, and light, perfect for running.

The color screen is easy to read even while taking quick glances on the move, and its five-button design makes navigation easy and efficient. For those looking for a dedicated everyday watch, you may want a more durable design, but you will pay more for it. If this will be a purely dedicated activity watch, we think this is a great choice.

Battery Life

The battery life on this model is one of the shortest we tested, at a claimed 20 hours for standard GPS mode and up to 2 weeks in smartwatch mode. This will, of course, change based on usage and the brightness level you choose. Twenty hours of GPS recording should be plenty for the average user.

Battery life is a major selling point for the GPS watch market. If you would prefer not to charge your watch as often or if you see yourself approaching that 20-hour mark regularly, it's best to spend some extra money to increase battery performance.

Should You Buy the Garmin Forerunner 55?

We cannot recommend this watch enough if you are familiar with the Garmin ecosystem. If you are looking for the essentials and don't need mapping capabilities, check out this model. While there are not as many health statistics and features as the higher-end models, we are impressed with the sleek and lightweight design. This watch is for users who want a smaller case size, basic GPS recording, and a heart rate monitor to track them throughout the day. If battery life and navigation are important to you, we would suggest bumping up to the next price point. But if simplicity is what you are looking for, we don't think you can go wrong with the Forerunner 55.

What Other GPS Watches Should You Consider?

If you don't need advanced mapping capabilities or altimeter data, we highly recommend this watch. We also don't think spending a bit more for the Garmin Forerunner 165 would be a bad idea if you plan to use your watch frequently. Coros Pace 3 has a slightly better battery life at the same price point, so that could be a great consideration as well.