Comparing Forerunner 45 and Fenix 5s Plus
Today, we’ll be comparing two popular smartwatches designed for fitness enthusiasts and athletes, the Garmin Fenix 5s Plus and the Garmin Forerunner 45. Both of these versatile smartwatches will provide excellent value to any user looking to enhance their workout routines, track daily physical activity, receive notifications, control their devices, and more.
As there are countless smartwatches on the market, choosing the right one for your needs can be challenging. That’s why we have thoroughly researched and examined both of the Garmin watches in question to help you make an informed decision.
Garmin is a well-known brand that has been producing innovative and reliable smartwatches, fitness trackers, and wearables for decades. In this piece, we’ll be providing in-depth analysis and insight into both the Fenix 5s Plus and the Forerunner 45, comparing their design, features, and more to help you decide which one is the best fit for you.
Design and Build
Garmin Fenix 5s Plus
The Fenix 5s Plus has a sturdy and robust design, utilizing high-quality materials such as stainless steel or diamond-like carbon (DLC) titanium bezel, sapphire crystal glass, and a fiber-reinforced polymer case to ensure durability. This watch measures 42 x 42 x 15.4mm and weighs 65 grams, making it a compact and lightweight option for those who require a streamlined device. Its display is 1.2 inches, featuring a resolution of 240 x 240, ensuring clear visibility.
Garmin Forerunner 45
The Forerunner 45, on the other hand, sports a more modest design, focusing on practicality and comfort. This model uses a chemically strengthened glass display and a fiber-reinforced polymer case. The watch’s dimensions are 42 x 42 x 11.4mm, and it weighs 36 grams, making it significantly lighter than the Fenix 5s Plus. Its 1.04-inch display has a resolution of 208 x 208 pixels, providing users with a clear view of their data.
Comparison of design and build quality
Comparing the two watches, we can identify that both offer a rugged and durable build, with the Fenix 5s Plus having slightly higher-quality materials and a larger, more vibrant display. However, the Forerunner 45 is lighter and more comfortable for daily use. Each has its own set of advantages and disadvantages, depending on the user’s preferences for overall design and wearability.
Features and Functionality
Garmin Fenix 5s Plus
The Fenix 5s Plus is equipped with a host of features such as built-in- GPS, GLONASS, and Galileo satellite systems, an optical heart rate monitor, sleep tracking, stress tracking, oxygen tracking, and various fitness tracking modes for both indoor and outdoor activities. It also supports music streaming, smartphone notifications, and an impressive battery life of up to 7 days in smartwatch mode.
Garmin Forerunner 45
While the Forerunner 45 may not have as many features as the Fenix 5s Plus, it still offers an extensive range of capabilities to cater to the user’s fitness and daily life needs. This smartwatch includes GPS, an optical heart rate monitor, sleep tracking, stress tracking, and activity tracking for indoor and outdoor exercises. It provides smartphone notifications and has a similar battery life of up to 7 days in smartwatch mode.
Comparison of features and performance
Both watches offer a comprehensive suite of features, with the Fenix 5s Plus providing a slightly more advanced set of options, including music streaming and oxygen tracking. However, the Forerunner 45 still packs an impressive range of functionalities, making it an excellent option for those who are looking for a more affordable, yet capable device.
User Interface and User Experience
Garmin Fenix 5s Plus
The Fenix 5s Plus delivers a user-friendly interface, featuring an easily readable MIP display, intuitive navigation, customizable watch faces, and compatibility with both Android and iOS phones. Users can connect their devices through Bluetooth and Wi-Fi to access various apps and services offered by the Garmin Connect app store.
Garmin Forerunner 45
The Forerunner 45 also provides a simple, easy-to-use interface with its LCD display, straightforward navigation, and compatibility with Android and iOS devices. Like the Fenix 5s Plus, it can be connected via Bluetooth and Wi-Fi, enabling users to access various apps and services through the Garmin Connect app store.
Comparison of user interface and user experience
The user interface and experience of both watches are quite similar, with each offering an intuitive and customizable interface, easy navigation, and smartphone compatibility. The major difference comes down to the display quality and type, with the Fenix 5s Plus boasting a more vibrant MIP display compared to the Forerunner 45's LCD screen.
Price and Value
Garmin Fenix 5s Plus
Priced at $799, the Fenix 5s Plus is a high-end smartwatch that offers a wide range of top-notch features and functions. Its price tag may be steep, but it provides excellent value for those who want an advanced, reliable, and durable device.
Garmin Forerunner 45
At a more affordable price of $199, the Forerunner 45 comes with a comprehensive suite of functions and features that can cater to the needs of fitness enthusiasts on a budget. While it might not have all the advanced capabilities of the Fenix 5s Plus, it still offers excellent value for a smartwatch in its price range.
Comparison of price and value
Comparing the two watches in terms of price and value, the Fenix 5s Plus is targeted at users who require a more advanced set of features and are willing to invest in a premium product. The Forerunner 45, on the other hand, is aimed at individuals who seek reliability and functionality at a more affordable price point.
Conclusion
In summary, both the Garmin Fenix 5s Plus and the Garmin Forerunner 45 are exceptional smartwatches that cater to different audiences. The Fenix 5s Plus is perfect for those who require the latest features, high-quality materials, and greater durability, while the Forerunner 45 is an excellent option for those seeking a more budget-friendly device with essential features and reliable performance. Ultimately, the choice between these two Garmin devices will depend on your needs, preferences, and budget.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the Garmin Fenix 5s Plus worth the higher price compared to the Forerunner 45?
The Garmin Fenix 5s Plus offers additional features and higher-quality materials, making it a great option for those with a more flexible budget. However, each user will have to weigh the pros and cons to decide whether the additional investment is worth it to them.
Can I receive phone calls and text notifications on my Garmin smartwatch?
Yes, both the Fenix 5s Plus and the Forerunner 45 can display phone calls, text notifications, and other alerts when connected to a compatible smartphone.
Are these watches suitable for swimming?
Yes, both the Garmin Fenix 5s Plus and Forerunner 45 feature water resistance ratings suitable for swimming activities (10 ATM for the Fenix 5s Plus and 5 ATM for the Forerunner 45).
Do these watches support third-party apps?
Yes, both the Fenix 5s Plus and Forerunner 45 support third-party apps through the Garmin Connect app store, making it easy to customize your watch with a variety of interesting and useful applications.
Which watch would be best for a beginner athlete?
The Garmin Forerunner 45 is an excellent choice for beginners, thanks to its ease of use, simplicity, and affordable price tag. However, as your training and performance progress, you might want to consider upgrading to the Fenix 5s Plus to access more advanced features and capabilities.
