Lightweight Good value Music controls

Limited sport profiles Plastic-heavy build No real swim tracking

Bang for buck, the Garmin Forerunner 45 is one of the most impressive running watches out there right now. You’ll be hard-pressed to find a more comprehensive device for this price. Yes, it has gaps and compromises, but it also sets the standard for...

Easy to use ; Week-long battery life ; Works with Garmin Coach

Doesn’t have full Connect IQ support ; Lacks training insights ; Limited additional sports tracking

This watch sticks to the basics, but if you're looking for a simple and easy-to-use running watch, plus some added smartwatch features, the Forerunner 45 definitely fits the bill.

Built-in GPS ; Accurate tracking and metrics ; Garmin Coach features offers tailored training plans

Five-button UI not for everyone ; Patchy sleep-tracking feature

Samsung and Apple win when it comes to a more well-rounded smartwatch experience, but if sophisticated fitness-tracking is your highest priority, the Garmin Forerunner 45 is worth a look.

Accurate step count and heart rate readings in testing. Long battery life. Comfortable.

No third-party app support. Distance tracking can be better.

The Garmin Forerunner 45 watch updates its predecessor with a new look and a color display, but remains a solid fitness tracker for runners and anyone else who wants to track their workouts.

The simplicity, the features, the abilities. This has been the best smartwatch I have bought so far, and I am very very happy with this purchase. It keeps motivated to be active, but doesn’t push me to the point where I start to ignore it. I really...