Electronics & Computing Mobile & Communication Smartwatches GARMIN Forerunner 255 Sports Watch - 46 mm

GARMIN Forerunner 255 Sports Watch - 46 mm

Published date: 28/Jul/2026

GARMIN Forerunner 255 Sports Watch - 46 mm

Colour

Out of stock

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Key Features

Battery Life
Up to 14 days
Supported OS
iOS & Android
Guarantee
2 years
Display size
1.3”
Transflective memory-in-pixel (MIP) display Sunlight visible Full colour
Payments & calls
Pay only
Resistance
Water resistant 5 ATM

What Customers Say

The Forerunner 255 is widely regarded as a feature‑rich multisport watch that remains light and comfortable. Reviewers highlight its availability in 41 mm and 46 mm cases and its precise dual‑band GPS and heart‑rate sensors, which support running, cycling and triathlon modes. They like the Race Day widget, improved Elevate V4 sensor and long battery life of roughly 12 days, and appreciate that a music variant is available for storing up to 500 songs.

However, critics point out that the watch lacks touchscreen controls and relies on buttons. They also note the absence of a solar option or offline maps, a basic display that feels more like a running watch than a smartwatch and a relatively high price for an entry‑level triathlon model. Some testers observed shorter battery life than the Instinct 2 and occasional heart‑rate inconsistencies.

Overall, the Forerunner 255 offers robust training features and accurate tracking but lacks modern touches.

Who Should Buy This

  • Dedicated runners and triathletes seeking advanced metrics like HRV, PacePro, and recovery insights for performance optimization.
  • Multisport enthusiasts valuing 30+ activity profiles, including cycling and swimming, with seamless GPS accuracy.
  • Battery-conscious athletes appreciating up to 14 days in smartwatch mode or 30 hours in GPS for uninterrupted training.
  • Health-focused users desiring comprehensive tracking of sleep, stress, SpO2, and menstrual cycles.
  • Connected individuals benefiting from notifications, Garmin Pay, and music controls in a lightweight 49g design.

Who Should Skip It

  • Touchscreen aficionados preferring intuitive swipe interfaces over button navigation.
  • Casual wearers uninterested in specialized sports analytics or requiring broader ecosystem integration.
  • Budget-conscious consumers eyeing more affordable options without premium fitness depth.

What Experts Says

Overall Assessment and Positioning

The Garmin Forerunner 255 Sports Watch is a high-performance smartwatch designed for athletes and fitness enthusiasts who require advanced tracking features and long battery life. In terms of positioning, the device competes with other high-end smartwatches from brands like Apple and Samsung, but its focus on running and fitness tracking sets it apart. Overall, the Forerunner 255 is a solid choice for those who prioritize accuracy and reliability in their wearable device.

Key Strengths and Standout Features

One of the key strengths of the Forerunner 255 is its built-in GPS and long battery life, which allows users to track their activities for up to 14 days in smartwatch mode and up to 30 hours in GPS mode. Additionally, the device features a range of advanced running dynamics, including stride length and lactate threshold, which provide valuable insights for runners. Other standout features include the wrist-based running power, Pacepro, and Grade-adjusted pace, which help users optimize their performance. The device also includes a range of smart features, such as contactless payments and music remote control, which enhance its usability.

Value Proposition and Who It's Best Suited For

The Garmin Forerunner 255 is best suited for serious athletes and fitness enthusiasts who require advanced tracking features and long battery life. The device's focus on running and fitness tracking makes it an excellent choice for runners, triathletes, and cyclists who want to optimize their performance. Additionally, the device's 2-year manufacturer's guarantee provides peace of mind for users who invest in the device. Overall, the Forerunner 255 offers a compelling value proposition for those who prioritize accuracy, reliability, and advanced features in their wearable device.

Similar Reviews

Video Reviews

ChoiceWise Scores: 0 Out Of 100
Display
0
Battery
0
Fitness & Health
0
Durability
0
Smart Ecosystem
0
Connectivity & GPS
0
Comfort Build
0

The ChoiceWise Score is calculated using a defined methodology based on the features and factors that matter most in this category. Read our full scoring methodology: choicewise.app/methodology#score

CategorySmartwatch
Strap materialSilicone
ClosureBuckle
Supported OSiOS & Android
ConnectivityBluetooth ANT+ NFC WiFi
GPSBuilt-in GPS
Battery typeBuilt in rechargeable lithium-ion battery
Charging methodUSB to Garmin proprietary plug cable
Charge time1.5 hours
Battery lifeUp to 14 days Smartwatch mode: Up to 14 days GPS mode: Up to 30 hours
Size1.3”
TypeTransflective memory-in-pixel (MIP) display Sunlight visible Full colour
TouchscreenNo
ShapeCircle
ResistanceWater resistant 5 ATM
Health & fitness trackingHeart rate Steps Distance Calories Sleep Move bar Floors climbed Menstrual cycle 30+ built-in sports & activities Triathlon and multisport profiles Daily suggested workouts Morning report Heart rate variability Garmin coach Recovery time Wrist-based running power Pacepro Grade-adjusted pace Training effect Track running Race predictor Advanced running dynamics such as stride length and lactate threshold when paired with compatible accessories (sold separately)
Smart functionsSmartphone notifications Contactless payments Music remote Alarm Find my phone Find my watch
Other featuresPay only
SensorsAccelerometer Barometer Compass Heart rate monitor (HRM) Pedometer Reflectance pulse oximetry (SpO2)
Dimensions12.9 x 46 x 46 mm (H x W x D)
ColourFace: Black Bezel: Slate grey Strap: Slate grey
Weight49 g
Manufacturer’s guarantee2 years
Box contentsGarmin Forerunner 255 Sports Watch Charging / data cable Documentation

Frequently Asked Questions

The battery life of the Garmin Forerunner 255 ranges from 14 days in smartwatch mode to 30 hours in GPS mode. It takes around 1.5 hours to fully charge the watch. The battery life may vary based on usage.

Yes, the Garmin Forerunner 255 is water-resistant up to 5 ATM, making it suitable for swimming and other water-based activities. However, it's not designed for deep-sea diving or other extreme water conditions.

Yes, the Garmin Forerunner 255 allows you to track your menstrual cycle, providing you with essential information about your health and fertility.

Yes, the Garmin Forerunner 255 supports contactless payments through Garmin Pay, allowing you to make transactions without needing a physical wallet or card.

No, the Garmin Forerunner 255 has a non-touchscreen display, but you can interact with it using the buttons on the watch.

Yes, the Garmin Forerunner 255 allows you to track your heart rate variability (HRV), providing you with valuable insights into your physical and mental state.

Yes, the Garmin Forerunner 255 comes with a Garmin proprietary plug cable for charging, which is included in the box contents.

ChoiceWise does not perform hands-on product testing for this page. The expert opinion and recommendations are based on third-party reviews and sources, which we analyze and summarize using our editorial process.