Garmin Forerunner 255 or Forerunner 955 — which one is better?
Garmin
Garmin Forerunner 255 or Forerunner 955 — which one is better?
A sports watch is an essential accessory for people leading an active lifestyle, providing precise measurements and reliable navigation. In today's article, I'd like to compare two iconic models from a renowned American wearables manufacturer: Garmin Forerunner 255 and Garmin Forerunner 955. Both models are designed for runners and triathletes, but what sets them apart? Let's find out!
Table of Contents:
Similarities — Garmin multisport watches with enhanced functionality for runners
Let's kick things off by exploring the similarities between these two models. As part of the Forerunner family, both the Garmin Forerunner 255 and Garmin Forerunner 955 prioritise features specifically tailored to running activities. Firstly, they boast multi-band GPS, sunlight-readable, transreflective displays with a resolution of 260 × 260 pixels (with the exception of the 255S version, which has a resolution of 218 × 218 pixels), cutting-edge heart rate sensor, blood oxygen measurement, wrist-based music control, contactless payments, phone notifications and powerful batteries that can last for approximately two weeks in smartwatch mode.
Garmin Forerunner — differences in design
There are also differences in the width and the way the straps are fitted. The Forerunner 255 series features a quick-release mechanism, the 255S model is 18 mm wide and the 255 version is 22 mm wide. Garmin straps with a width of 22 mm and the 22 mm QuickFit straps from the Garmin Fenix collection fit the Forerunner 955 series.
Garmin Forerunner 255 vs 955 — comparison
Maps on Garmin Forerunner watches
The Forerunner 955 series comes equipped with built-in TopoActive Europe maps, offering detailed colour maps of various terrains. Moreover, the series includes maps of popular ski resorts and golf courses from across the globe. One standout feature of the Forerunner 955 series is the Trendline function, which generates attractive routes for you to exercise or explore. It's a great way to discover exciting paths, add variety to your workouts and map out roads and navigate them directly from your watch. Additionally, with Wi-Fi connectivity, you can effortlessly download free maps for any region worldwide.
Unlike the Forerunner 955 series, the Garmin Forerunner 255 offers simplified navigation features. While it may not have the extensive capabilities found in its counterpart, it still provides useful navigation functionality for runners and athletes. With the Forerunner 255, you have the ability to view your current path, save your location, plot a route to a desired starting point and navigate to a specific destination or follow a set route.
Solar charging
Solar charging is a feature you'll only find on selected Garmin 955 watches. It significantly extends their battery life.
Battery life
Here's a table comparing the battery life of the Garmin Forerunner 255S, Forerunner 255 and Forerunner 955 watches:
Connectivity to external devices
While both the Garmin Forerunner 255 and the Garmin Forerunner 955 series offer Bluetooth and ANT+ connectivity, the Forerunner 955 has an advantage in terms of compatibility with a wider range of external devices and sensors. The Forerunner 955 can connect to the following sensors, which the Forerunner 255 version may not be compatible with:
- Approach CT10 club tracking sensors
- InREACH system to connect and control a satellite communicator
- sensor measuring muscle oxygenation levels
- sensor for displaying information about gear changes while driving
Sports modes and workout features
While both the Garmin Forerunner 255 and the Garmin Forerunner 955 series offer a wide range of sports modes, the Forerunner 955 version can boast some more profiles, i.e. cyclo-cross, gravel cycling, bike commuting, bike touring, road racing, climbing, tennis, pickleball, padel, golf, disc golf, kayak, indoor climbing, bouldering, cross-country snowboarding, cross-country skiing (classic or skate skiing) and snowshoeing.
Furthermore, the Garmin Forerunner 955 series has been enhanced with additional features related to assessing the body's readiness for workouts and monitoring real-time stamina.
Garmin Forerunner 255 or Forerunner 955 — which one to choose?
To summarise, in terms of functionality, the Garmin Forerunner 955 emerges as the winner in this comparison. However, if the extra functions and features provided by the Forerunner 955 are not essential for your specific needs, the Garmin Forerunner 255 remains a compelling option due to an affordable price and equally high-quality workmanship.
Garmin Forerunner watches
