Sports watches are getting more and more advanced as the years go on. Garmin is a key brand for sports performance watches, as they are consistently showcasing high-quality options for all active customers. But, which watch is best for you? Though the many options may seem similar, they all have various features and data tracking methods. Both the Fenix 6 and Forerunner 55 are great watches, so we will take an in-depth look at their differences. But which comes out on top when it comes to the Fenix 6 vs Forerunner 55?
Fenix 6 Overview
Released in August 2019, the Fenix 6 watch is one of Garmin’s best options right now. The Fenix watches are a range of fitness trackers specializing in adventure tracking and outdoor fitness activities.
The 6 model was an update in features and aesthetic design from the previous Fenix 5 watch. This was a welcomed update for all fans of sports watches, as the new model was improved and optimized for great workout sessions. With GPS tracking, performance, and adventure tracking features, this is ideal for anyone wanting to invest in a top-quality smartwatch. The only downside to this watch is the hefty price tag.
| Garmin Product | Supplier | |
| Fenix 7 | Amazon | View Offer |
| Fenix 7 | eBay | View Offer |
| Fenix 7 | Garmin | View Offer |
| Fenix 7 | Target | View Offer |
Key Features of the Fenix 6
- Measures users running and cycling performances.
- Can pair with any compatible smartphones for on-wrist notifications, messaging, and alerts.
- Uses a wrist-based pulse Ox and heart rate to give fitness insights.
- Can double as a virtual wallet with Garmin pay.
- Multi-GNSS satellite and outdoor sensors give in-depth navigation.
- Users can go 14 days between charges with longer battery life.
Before plunging into the Forerunner 55, we also recommend checking whether the new Fenix 7 is out. Expect it to be priced much higher though.
Forerunner 55 Overview
The Forerunner 55 watch from Garmin is an entry-level running watch designed for users who are just starting in sports. Released in June 2021, this watch costs $199.99, making it a lower budget option than other watches available from this brand. If you’ve just started working out with basic fitness trackers, this is the logical next step before you invest in top-of-the-line sports watches.
The 55 model offers a range of workout suggestions, recovery time suggestions and features well-designed controls. The watch also has an easy-to-use interface, making it accessible to all users. Whether you want to spend less or get a watch at a beginner’s level, the Forerunner 55 is a great watch to try.
Key Features of the Forerunner 55
- The watch allows users to monitor overall wellness and health with heart rate sensors.
- High-end running tools allow you to meet fitness goals without investing in an expensive watch.
- Use activity profiles to track running and other sports.
- Smartwatch can suggest tailored workouts for you.
- GPS systems allow you to monitor the speeds, distance, and time of your workouts.
Choose from your favorite merchant to buy the Garmin Forerunner 55
| Merchant | |
| Amazon | Buy Garmin Forerunner 55 |
| eBay | Buy Garmin Forerunner 55 |
| Target | Buy Garmin Forerunner 55 |
| Garmin | Buy Garmin Forerunner 55 |
What Are The Key Differences Between The Fenix 6 And Forerunner 55?
Still not sure which you prefer out of the Fenix 6 vs Forerunner 55? Here’s an easier breakdown to help you see what watch is best for your lifestyle.
Display
When it comes to display, the Fenix 6 has a larger display size at 33mm. The Forerunner 55 model has a smaller display of 26.4mm. Both watches use a MIP LCD type with a 283ppi pixel density. The screen resolution on the Fenix 6 is 260 x 260, and the Forerunner 55 resolution is 208 x 208.
Connectivity
Both watches use GPS, Galileo, and GLONASS for global positioning. However, for wireless connectivity, the Forerunner 55 only uses ANT+, whereas the Fenix 6 uses ANT+, Wi-Fi, and Bluetooth.
Performance
As the Forerunner 55 is a beginner-level sports watch, it only uses an accelerometer and optical heart rate sensors. Since the Fenix 6 is a more advanced and expensive watch option. It contains a range of sensors, including a compass, a barometer (altimeter), an accelerometer, a gyroscope, and an optical heart rate monitor.
Both watches are compatible with iOS and Android software too. The Fenix 6 can use a Proprietary OS operating system, but the Forerunner 55 is not.
Battery
The Fenix 6 can hold its battery for an estimated 14 days on smartwatch mode and 72 hours with GPS on. With GPS and music on, the watch can hold the battery for 10 hours, and in low power mode, the Fenix 6 can stay alive for 48 days.
On the other hand, the Forerunner 55 has a shorter battery life of two weeks on smartwatch mode and 20 hours with GPS systems on.
Physical
When it comes to case sizes, the Fenix 6 has a larger size of 47mm, and the Forerunner 55 has a smaller 42mm case. Both watches have water resistance depth, but the Fenix 6 can survive up to 10 ATM, and the Forerunner 55 can survive up to 5 ATM. The Fenix 6 is also splash-proof, but the Forerunner 55 isn’t – so be careful around the Forerunner and water!
Appearance
When purchasing the Fenix 6 watch, you can choose between 28 unique colorways to ensure the watch is personalized to your taste. You can also choose between Standard, Sapphire, and Solar editions too.
The Forerunner 55 watch is available in four colors and one sleek design. Users can choose between black, white, aqua, and monterra grey.
Which Watch Is Best For You?
Ultimately, when it comes to which is better, the Fenix 6 vs Forerunner 55, the most important question is which is best for you. While both of these watches offer great sports-based features, the Fenix 6 is a more expensive and high-tech option, whereas the Forerunner 55 is a lower-tech beginner’s watch. If you want a watch that does it all, the Fenix 6 is probably best for you as it has high-quality features and is a premium option. If you want to spend less money and have a more basic fitness tracker, the Forerunner 55 is your best bet! As an alternative to these two, you may want to consider a model that sits just between them and offers a touchscreen display, such as the Garmin Venu 2, which also has 2 buttons.
What do you think of these two watches? Find more watch comparisons from our watch experts here.
Check out the new Garmin Fenix 7 here.
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Last Updated on January 11, 2023
Isobel is a freelance copy and content writer who regularly contributes to Superwatches. Well-versed in all the ins and outs of the smartwatch industry. Isobel specializes in Fashion and design and is a First Class fashion design graduate.
Currently lives in Bournemouth, United Kingdom.