Garmin Forerunner 55 GPS Running Watch
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Our quick verdict
A simple, reliable first running watch with accurate GPS, easy buttons and free Garmin Coach plans. The screen is basic compared with the Forerunner 165, but it does the job for less.
Great for
- New runners and walkers
- Couch-to-5K and first 10K
- A budget fitness gift
Skip it if
- You want a bright touchscreen (see the Forerunner 165)
- You want maps or music
The Forerunner 55 is Garmin’s most affordable GPS running watch, built around simple buttons, accurate tracking and free coaching plans.
Key features
- Built-in GPS for pace and distance
- Suggested daily workouts
- Garmin Coach plans for 5K, 10K and half marathon
- Incident detection and LiveTrack
What reviewers say
Reviewers call it a well-designed beginner’s watch with fast, accurate GPS and useful safety features rare at this price.
The screen is low-resolution, there’s no touchscreen, and it’s very similar to the older Forerunner 45.
Source: TechRadar (Forerunner 55 review).
Good to know in Ireland
- Sold and shipped by Amazon.ie.
Pros and cons
What we like
- Accurate GPS
- Easy physical buttons
- Free Garmin Coach training plans
- Incident detection and LiveTrack safety features
Watch out for
- Low-resolution screen, no touchscreen
- No music or maps
- Fewer smart features than newer models
Specifications
| GPS | Built-in |
|---|---|
| Heart rate | Wrist-based |
| Screen | 208 x 208, buttons only |
| Training | Suggested workouts, Garmin Coach |
| Safety | Incident detection, LiveTrack |
Questions people ask
Forerunner 55 or 165?
The 165 has a much nicer AMOLED touchscreen and more training features. The 55 is the cheaper, simpler option.
