The Forerunner 935 is a GPS watch that offers advanced running and training metrics. It has a wrist-based heart rate monitor, so you can track your heart rate without a chest strap.
Shoppers in the market for a top-quality smartwatch with an active lifestyle will want to know more about the Garmin Forerunner 935 and the 945.
Both are great watches with tons of features, but there are some subtle differences I noticed while using them in my training that I would like to direct your attention to before you make a decision.
Keep reading to find out more about each and where one outshines the other in terms of extras and benefits for potential buyers. Consider these main details and features for each model.
Table of Contents
At a Glance
Initially, there may not seem to be a vast difference between the two models, but upon closer review, you’ll see that there are quite a few differences between the two options. If you want the best overall smartwatch for training, then you should get the 945.
If you’re just starting as a triathlete or runner, you might want to go with the 935 for budget’s sake. However, if you’re looking for more features that an advanced athlete needs to get the most out of their training time, then the 945 is the better option.
Comparison
There are many similarities between the Garmin Forerunner 935 and the 945 to understand before making an informed choice. Consider these Forerunner features and benefits to help you decide which one is the best for your current needs.
Music
Premium GPS Running/Triathlon Smartwatch.
The 945: The Forerunner 945 has music synch capabilities, so you can use your favorite music streaming services while you train.
The 935: The Forerunner 935 also has the same capacities to synch your streaming music services while you are active.
The Winner: Tie. These smartwatches afford the same music streaming capabilities and let you download music to your watch’s storage. That means you can enjoy your favorite music even if you don’t have a great connection.
It’s essential to have the option to stream music while you train. Almost every athlete wants music to help them get in the zone, and both options do just that.
They also allow you to stream and download music directly to your watches’ storage for no-stream playback.
Design
The Forerunner 935 is a GPS watch that offers advanced running and training metrics. It has a wrist-based heart rate monitor, so you can track your heart rate without a chest strap.
The 945: The Forerunner 945 has a sporty look and is slightly larger, but the band is much larger. This model has a more masculine appeal.
The 935: The Forerunner 935 is somewhat smaller overall than the 945. It’s more unisex and appeals to a larger audience. The face is slightly smaller, but the band is much smaller overall.
The Winner: The 935 is the winner for style. Its broad appeal and sleek design make it more appealing to more individuals. However, everyone has their preferences and may enjoy the larger and bolder look of the 945.
If you’re looking for a large, masculine watch with a beefy band and sporty appeal, the 945 is a good choice. However, if you want the style toned down without the large size, the 935 is also an excellent choice.
Performance Tracking
The 945: There are far more activity profiles on the Forerunner 945. You can participate in many more activities while tracking your performance and goals.
The 945 also has a heart rate and performance conditioning tracker with oximetry data and sensors. You can use these stats to measure performance and determine your thresholds for certain activities.
The 935: This model has a few activity profiles, but not nearly as many as the 945. This model also has a heart rate monitor and features vo2 max. The 935 doesn’t include the oximetry data for your heart monitoring.
The winner: The winner here is the 945 model. It has many activity profiles and sensors, making it more comprehensive and better suited for versatility and different activities or interests.
X vs. Y: The Winner
The best option overall is the Garmin Forerunner 945 because it has more features and options for active lifestyles. Some sensors monitor your activity and predict your performance thresholds for specific activities.
Beginner athlete: The Beginner athlete or female athlete may want to choose the Forerunner 935 because of its smaller, streamlined design. However, it does sacrifice practicality for more intense training.
Professional athlete: The professional athlete will want the benefit of sensors and additional features the Forerunner 945 provides. Although it’s bulkier and has a masculine look, it can make up for the bold design with streamlined options, especially for multiple activities.
Wrap Up
If you’re interested in the additional function for multiple sports or activities, you’ll want the Garmin Forerunner 945. It sacrifices the styling and has a more prominent profile, but it makes up for it functionally.
If you’re ready to make a purchase or learn more about these options, check out Smartwatch Lab and find a great deal on your perfect smartwatch.
There’s a smartwatch for every need and style on the website.
