Garmin 935 vs 945: GPS Watch Showdown

The Garmin Forerunner 935 and 945 are two highly regarded GPS watches that have been popular among athletes. These watches offer a plethora of features, making them indispensable tools for fitness enthusiasts. While the Forerunner 935 has garnered a loyal fan base thanks to its connectivity, sensors, and exceptional battery life, the Forerunner 945 takes things a step further with additional performance monitoring tools and upgrades. In this article, we will compare these two Garmin watches to help you determine which one best suits your athletic needs.

Key Takeaways:

• The Garmin Forerunner 935 and 945 are high-end GPS watches designed for athletes.
• The Forerunner 945 offers more advanced features and upgrades compared to the Forerunner 935.
• The Forerunner 945 is lighter and thinner, making it suitable for people with smaller wrists.
• Both watches have impressive battery life, with the Forerunner 945 lasting up to 36 hours in GPS mode.
• The Forerunner 945 LTE version includes cellular connectivity for added convenience.

Design Comparison

When it comes to design, the Garmin Forerunner 935 and 945 share a similar circular shape and size, measuring 47mm x 47mm. However, there are some noticeable differences between the two models.

The Garmin Forerunner 945 is slightly thinner and lighter than the 935, making it more comfortable to wear on the wrist. This may be particularly appealing to individuals with smaller wrists. Additionally, the 945 LTE version is even slimmer, adding to its appeal for those seeking a sleek and lightweight design.

Both the Garmin Forerunner 935 and 945 feature a 1.2-inch MIP (Memory-In-Pixel) display, providing a clear and vibrant viewing experience. Furthermore, these GPS watches are water-resistant up to 5 ATM, allowing you to comfortably wear them while swimming or engaging in other water activities.

The image above visually highlights the design differences between the Garmin Forerunner 935 and 945. As seen, the 945 LTE version showcases its slim profile, perfect for individuals with smaller wrists.

Hardware and Features Comparison

When comparing the hardware and features of the Garmin Forerunner 935 and 945, it’s evident that the 945 offers notable upgrades and advancements. Let’s take a closer look at what sets these two models apart.

Processor and Memory

The Garmin Forerunner 945 boasts a faster processor and increased memory capacity compared to the 935. This means smoother performance and the ability to handle more data-intensive tasks effortlessly.

New Sony GPS Chip

One of the significant improvements of the Garmin Forerunner 945 is the integration of a new Sony GPS chip. This chip enhances GPS accuracy, ensuring more precise tracking and mapping capabilities.

Cellular Connectivity – 945 LTE Version

For those seeking constant connectivity on their GPS watch, the Garmin Forerunner 945 LTE version offers cellular connectivity. This feature allows you to stay connected without having to carry your smartphone during outdoor activities.

Battery Life

Both the Garmin Forerunner 935 and 945 offer impressive battery life. The 935 can last up to 24 hours in GPS mode, while the 945 takes it a step further with a battery life of up to 36 hours. However, it’s worth noting that the 945 LTE version has a slightly lower battery life of 35 hours.

These hardware and feature enhancements of the Garmin Forerunner 945 make it an enticing option for athletes and outdoor enthusiasts looking for the latest technology and improved performance metrics.

Functionality Comparison

Both the Garmin Forerunner 935 and 945 offer a wide range of functionalities that cater to the needs of athletes. These GPS watches provide comprehensive features to enhance your training and performance. Let’s explore the key functionalities and performance metrics offered by these two models.

Multiple Sports Modes

• The Garmin Forerunner 935 and 945 support various sports modes, including running, cycling, swimming, and more. You can track your performance and progress in specific activities with detailed metrics.

24/7 Activity and Sleep Tracking

• Both watches offer comprehensive activity tracking, monitoring steps, distance traveled, calories burned, and more throughout the day. They also track your sleep patterns, providing insights into your sleep quality and duration.

Advanced Performance Metrics

• With the Garmin Forerunner 935 and 945, you can access a range of advanced performance metrics to evaluate your training effectiveness. These metrics include Vo2 max estimation, training load balance, recovery advisor, and more.

Additional Features of the Garmin Forerunner 945

The Garmin Forerunner 945 offers some additional features compared to the 935, expanding its functionality:

• On-board storage for music: You can store your favorite songs directly on the watch and listen to them without needing your phone.
• Garmin Pay for contactless payments: Conveniently make purchases with your watch, eliminating the need for carrying credit cards or cash.
• Navigational mapping: The 945 provides navigational guidance and route mapping to help you explore new trails and routes.
• Pulse oximeter for sleep tracking and oxygen saturation levels: This feature allows you to monitor your blood oxygen levels during sleep and gain insights into your overall health.

As you can see, both the Garmin Forerunner 935 and 945 offer a wide range of functionalities for athletes. While the 945 provides some additional features, the 935 still offers comprehensive performance monitoring tools and advanced metrics. Consider your specific training needs and preferences to determine which watch best suits you.

Garmin Forerunner 955 Overview

The Garmin Forerunner 955 is the highly anticipated successor to the popular 945 model. Packed with new features and improvements, this GPS watch is set to impress athletes and fitness enthusiasts alike.

One of the standout enhancements of the Forerunner 955 is the addition of a solar option. This solar charging feature allows you to extend the battery life of your watch while enjoying your outdoor activities. With improved GPS accuracy, you can trust that the Forerunner 955 will provide you with accurate tracking and precise data to help you reach your performance goals.

The Forerunner 955 also introduces touch-screen functionality, making it even easier to navigate through menus and access your favorite features. Whether you need to quickly check your heart rate or change your workout settings on the go, the touch-screen interface offers convenience and efficiency.

In addition to the solar option and touch-screen capability, the Forerunner 955 boasts additional performance metrics to enhance your training experience. With advanced data on training load, recovery time, and VO2 max, you can gain valuable insights into your fitness and optimize your workouts for better results.

As with its predecessor, the 955 maintains the sleek, stylish design that Garmin is known for. It features a durable build and a comfortable fit, ensuring it can withstand the rigors of your active lifestyle. Whether you’re training for a marathon or hitting the trails, the Forerunner 955 will keep up with your every move.

With its impressive array of new features, the Garmin Forerunner 955 sets a new standard for GPS watches. Whether you’re a professional athlete or a casual fitness enthusiast, this watch has the tools you need to take your performance to the next level. Stay ahead of the competition and elevate your training with the Garmin Forerunner 955.

Garmin Fenix 5 Plus Comparison

The Garmin Fenix 5 Plus is a highly sought-after GPS watch that shares many features with the Forerunner series.

Designed with outdoor enthusiasts in mind, it boasts a durable build that can withstand tough conditions.

When comparing the Fenix 5 Plus to the Forerunner 935 and 945, you’ll notice a few key differences.

Firstly, the Fenix 5 Plus has a larger and thicker design, making it a robust option for those who prioritize durability.

In addition, it offers additional outdoor sensors and topographical maps, enhancing its functionality for outdoor activities.

Despite these differences, the Fenix 5 Plus still provides similar sports tracking features and smartwatch capabilities to the Forerunner models.

Overall, the Garmin Fenix 5 Plus is a reliable GPS watch that caters to the needs of outdoor enthusiasts, with its rugged design and enhanced outdoor features.

“The Fenix 5 Plus is the ideal companion for adventurous individuals who want a durable and versatile GPS watch for their outdoor pursuits.” – Outdoor Enthusiast Magazine

Conclusion

In conclusion, the Garmin Forerunner 935 and 945 are two strong contenders in the realm of high-end GPS watches for athletes. Both models offer advanced features and performance monitoring tools that can take your training to the next level.

The Garmin Forerunner 945, however, does bring some significant upgrades and improvements compared to the 935. With features like on-board storage for music, Garmin Pay for contactless payments, and navigational mapping, the 945 offers a more comprehensive package for those looking for extra functionality.

That being said, the choice between the 935 and 945 ultimately depends on your specific needs and budget. If you’re looking for a solid GPS watch with excellent connectivity, sensors, and battery life, the 935 is a great option. On the other hand, if you want the latest features and enhanced performance metrics, the 945 could be the right choice for you.

Before making a decision, it’s important to carefully consider the features and functionalities offered by each watch. Assess your training goals, the activities you engage in, and the data you value the most. By doing so, you can make an informed decision that matches your specific needs and preferences.