6 Best Alternatives to the Garmin Forerunner® 255 (2026)
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The Garmin Forerunner 255 offers a 46mm always-on display and up to 14 days of battery life in smartwatch mode. It is designed for runners who want detailed training insights and a lightweight build. If you are looking for garmin forerunner 255 alternatives, you might want a different size or feature set. Some users prefer a smaller 43mm case or built-in music storage without extra weight.
We selected these alternatives because their core specifications overlap with the original model. The list includes options with AMOLED displays, LTE connectivity, or Wi-Fi support. You can choose a titanium build for durability or a lighter watch for comfort. Each option is ranked by how well its specs match your specific running needs. This guide helps you compare case sizes, battery endurance, and connectivity types across 6 devices.
Comparing the Top Alternatives
Garmin Forerunner 165 Music 43mm
The Garmin Forerunner 165 Music 43mm offers a lighter build at 1.38 ounces compared to the 255’s 1.7 ounces. It features a 43mm size and an AMOLED display for sharper visuals. You gain built-in music storage, which the base 255 lacks. However, you sacrifice the larger 46mm screen and potentially shorter battery endurance. This model suits runners who prefer a compact, lightweight watch with vibrant display quality and onboard audio without carrying their phone.
Samsung Galaxy Watch Ultra 47mm LTE
The Samsung Galaxy Watch Ultra 47mm LTE stands out with a titanium case and LTE connectivity. It is heavier at 2.13 ounces and larger at 47mm than the 255. You get cellular independence for calls and data without your phone. The trade-off is a significant weight increase and a different ecosystem. This watch fits runners who need standalone communication and a durable metal build, prioritizing connectivity and ruggedness over the 255’s specialized running metrics and lighter profile.
Garmin Forerunner 170 43mm
The Garmin Forerunner 170 43mm is a compact option at 1.4 ounces with a 43mm fit. It shares the GPS connectivity and AMOLED display quality of the 255 but in a smaller package. You give up the larger 46mm screen size for a more discreet wrist presence. It also lacks built-in music storage. This model is ideal for runners with smaller wrists who want long battery life and a focused running experience without the bulk of the larger 255.
Garmin Forerunner 165 Music
The Garmin Forerunner 165 Music adds Wi-Fi connectivity alongside GPS, which the base 255 does not explicitly list. It shares the 43mm size, 1.38-ounce weight, and AMOLED display. You gain faster data syncing and music storage capabilities. The primary difference is the connectivity suite and slightly different battery management. This choice suits runners who want the lightweight 165 form factor with Wi-Fi for quick updates and music, rather than the larger, always-on display focus of the 255.
Garmin Forerunner 245 Music
The Garmin Forerunner 245 Music is lighter at 1.28 ounces and slightly narrower at 1.7 inches wide. It includes built-in music storage, a feature absent in the base 255. However, it uses an older design language and may lack the latest battery efficiency of newer models. The 46mm 255 offers a larger display area. This watch is a practical alternative for runners who prioritize music storage and a lighter feel over the larger screen and latest sensor updates of the 255.
Garmin Forerunner 255 Music 46mm
The Garmin Forerunner 255 Music 46mm shares the same 46mm case size, 1.7-ounce weight, and always-on display as the base model. The key addition is built-in music storage. You get the same comprehensive training insights and battery life. The difference is purely functional: you can leave your phone at home while listening to playlists. This is the best choice for runners who want the standard 255 experience but need onboard audio without the weight of a separate device.
| # | Product | Best for | Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Garmin Forerunner 255 46mm GPS Best overall | Runners wanting large display and long battery | |
| 2 | Garmin Forerunner 165 Music 43mm Best budget | Runners wanting a lightweight AMOLED watch with music | |
| 3 | Samsung Galaxy Watch Ultra 47mm LTE Best titanium | runners wanting a titanium LTE watch | |
| 4 | Garmin Forerunner 170 43mm Best premium | runners wanting long battery life and a compact size | |
| 5 | Garmin Forerunner 165 Music Best wi-fi | runners wanting Wi-Fi and a lightweight AMOLED watch | |
| 6 | Garmin Forerunner 245 Music Also great | Runners wanting music and safety without a phone | |
| 7 | Garmin Forerunner 255 Music 46mm Best black | runners who want music storage |
Garmin Forerunner 255 46mm GPS
Best for: Runners wanting large display and long battery
- Case Size
- 46mm
- Battery Life
- Up to 14 days
- Display Type
- Always-on, full-color
- Connectivity
- GPS
- Activity
- Running
- Dimensions
- 1.8 × 1.8 × 0.5 inches
The Garmin Forerunner 255 is a GPS running smartwatch with a 46mm case and an always-on full-color display. It offers up to 14 days of battery life in smartwatch mode and 30 hours in GPS mode. The device provides advanced insights like morning reports and training tips. It suits runners who want detailed metrics and long battery endurance without frequent charging.
- 46mm case size with slim design
- Always-on full-color display
- Up to 14 days battery in smartwatch mode
- Up to 30 hours GPS battery life
- Morning report with sleep and HRV status
- 46mm case is bulkier than 41mm options
- 14-day battery is less than some competitors
- Advanced dynamics require separate HRM-Pro monitor
- You want a large, readable always-on display
- You need long battery life for multi-day tracking
- You prefer detailed running metrics and insights
- You prefer a smaller 41mm case size
- You want advanced dynamics without buying extra gear
- You need LTE connectivity for calls without phone
Verdict: Garmin Forerunner 255 46mm GPS fits runners who prioritize display size and battery endurance over compactness. It delivers comprehensive training insights for dedicated athletes.
Garmin Forerunner 165 Music 43mm
Best for: Runners wanting a lightweight AMOLED watch with music
- Case Size
- 43mm
- Battery Life
- Up to 11 days
- Display Type
- AMOLED
- Connectivity
- GPS
- Features
- Music
- Activity
- Running, Training
The Garmin Forerunner 165 Music is a 43mm running smartwatch with an AMOLED display. It offers up to 11 days of battery life in smartwatch mode. You get built-in GPS and wrist-based heart rate tracking. The device supports music storage for phone-free listening. It includes Garmin Coach training plans. This model suits runners who want a lightweight, bright screen without the bulk of larger watches.
- 43mm case size with a lightweight 1.38-ounce design
- Brilliant AMOLED touchscreen display
- Up to 11 days of battery life in smartwatch mode
- Built-in GPS and wrist-based heart rate monitoring
- Download songs from Spotify, Amazon Music, or Deezer
- Smaller 43mm case compared to the 46mm Forerunner 255
- Shorter 19-hour GPS battery life versus the Forerunner 255
- Fewer advanced training insights than the Forerunner 255
- You prefer a smaller, lighter watch for sleeping and running
- You want a bright AMOLED screen for outdoor visibility
- You need music storage without carrying your phone
- You need the longer battery life of the Forerunner 255
- You want the most advanced training metrics available
- You prefer a larger display for easier reading
Verdict: The Garmin Forerunner 165 Music 43mm fits runners who prioritize a lightweight build and a vibrant AMOLED display over maximum battery endurance. It is a practical option for those who want music on their wrist without the weight of larger models.
Samsung Galaxy Watch Ultra 47mm LTE
Best for: runners wanting a titanium LTE watch
- Case Size
- 47mm
- Connectivity
- LTE, GPS
- Case Material
- Titanium
- Features
- Heart Rate Monitor
- Activity
- Running
- Tracking Features
- Heart Rate Monitoring
The Samsung Galaxy Watch Ultra 47mm LTE is a rugged smartwatch built for runners who want durability. Its titanium casing provides a sturdy frame, while the 47mm size offers a large display area. The device includes LTE and GPS connectivity for tracking runs without a phone. It monitors heart rate and offers running coaching features. This watch suits those prioritizing build quality and cellular independence.
- Titanium case material for durability
- 47mm case size for visibility
- LTE and GPS connectivity
- Heart rate monitoring for training
- Heavier build at 2.13 ounces compared to plastic alternatives
- Larger 47mm size may not fit smaller wrists comfortably
- You want a smartwatch with a titanium case
- You need LTE connectivity for phone-free running
- You prefer a larger 47mm display
- You prefer a lightweight plastic watch
- You need a smaller case size under 45mm
- You do not want cellular capabilities
Verdict: Samsung Galaxy Watch Ultra 47mm Titanium is a robust choice for runners who value a durable titanium build and cellular connectivity. It fits users who prioritize a substantial 47mm display and do not mind the added weight of 2.13 ounces.
Garmin Forerunner 170 43mm
Best for: runners wanting long battery life and a compact size
- Case Size
- 43mm
- Battery Life
- Up to 10 days
- Display Type
- AMOLED
- Connectivity
- GPS
- Activity
- Running, Training
- Dimensions
- 1.68 × 1.68 × 0.47 inches
The Garmin Forerunner 170 is a 43mm GPS running smartwatch with an AMOLED display. It offers up to 10 days of battery life in smartwatch mode. The device tracks pace, distance, and heart rate. It includes training readiness and suggested workouts. This model suits runners who want a lightweight, button-controlled watch with long battery life.
- 43mm case size with button controls
- AMOLED touchscreen display
- Up to 10 days battery life in smartwatch mode
- Built-in GPS for pace and distance
- Training readiness based on HRV status
- 43mm case is smaller than the 46mm Forerunner 255
- Standard GPS model lacks built-in music storage
- 1.4 ounces weight is lighter but offers less premium feel than titanium options
- You prefer a smaller 43mm case for comfort
- You want an AMOLED display with physical buttons
- You need up to 10 days of battery life
- You require built-in music storage for phone-free runs
- You prefer a larger 46mm display for readability
- You want a titanium casing for durability
Verdict: The Garmin Forerunner 170 43mm is a practical choice for runners who prioritize battery life and a compact AMOLED display over built-in music storage.
Garmin Forerunner 165 Music
Best for: runners wanting Wi-Fi and a lightweight AMOLED watch
- Case Size
- 43 mm
- Battery Life
- Up to 11 days
- Display Type
- AMOLED
- Connectivity
- GPS, Wi-Fi
- Features
- Music
- Activity
- Running
The Garmin Forerunner 165 Music is a GPS running smartwatch with a 43 mm case and an AMOLED display. It connects via Wi-Fi and GPS, offering up to 11 days of battery life in smartwatch mode. The watch supports music downloads and includes training insights like recovery time and training effect. It suits runners who want a lightweight device with clear visuals and solid connectivity options for daily tracking and workouts.
- Built-in Wi-Fi and GPS for connectivity
- Brilliant AMOLED touchscreen display
- Up to 11 days of battery life in smartwatch mode
- Lightweight 43 mm design at 1.38 ounces
- Smaller 43 mm case size compared to the 46 mm Forerunner 255
- Shorter GPS battery life of 19 hours versus the 255's extended duration
- You prefer a lighter, smaller watch for daily wear
- You want Wi-Fi connectivity for quick updates
- You value an AMOLED display for clear readability
- You need a larger case for better visibility
- You require extended GPS battery life for ultra-long events
- You do not need Wi-Fi connectivity
Verdict: The Garmin Forerunner 165 Music 43mm is a practical choice for runners who prioritize a lightweight build and clear AMOLED display. It fits those who want Wi-Fi connectivity and moderate battery life without the bulk of larger models.
Garmin Forerunner 245 Music
Best for: Runners wanting music and safety without a phone
- Battery Life
- up to 7 days in smartwatch mode
- Connectivity
- GPS
- Features
- Music
- Activity
- Running
- Dimensions
- 1.7 × 1.7 × 0.5 inches
- Weight
- 1.28 ounces
The Garmin Forerunner 245 Music is a GPS running smartwatch designed for runners who want to carry their music without a phone. It offers up to 7 days of battery life in smartwatch mode and 6 hours in GPS mode with music. The device tracks training status and provides advanced running dynamics when paired with compatible sensors. It syncs with Spotify for offline playback and includes incident detection for safety. This model suits runners seeking dedicated tracking and music storage.
- Up to 7 days battery life in smartwatch mode
- 6 hours GPS mode with music playback
- Syncs with Spotify for offline songs
- Tracks training status to prevent overtraining
- Incident detection sends location to contacts
- Requires separate HRM-Run or HRM-Tri monitors for advanced running dynamics
- Lighter weight at 1.28 ounces compared to heavier titanium models
- Smaller battery capacity than newer LTE smartwatches
- You want to leave your phone behind during runs
- You need incident detection for safety
- You prefer a lighter watch under 1.3 ounces
- You need built-in advanced running dynamics without extra sensors
- You want LTE connectivity for standalone calls
- You prefer a titanium case material
Verdict: Garmin Forerunner 245 Music fits runners who prioritize music storage and safety features over standalone connectivity. It is ideal for those who do not mind pairing separate sensors for detailed dynamics.
Garmin Forerunner 255 Music 46mm
Best for: runners who want music storage
- Case Size
- 46mm
- Battery Life
- Up to 14 days
- Display Type
- Always-on, full-color
- Connectivity
- GPS
- Features
- Music
- Activity
- Running, Training
The Garmin Forerunner 255 Music is a 46mm GPS running smartwatch in black. It features an always-on, full-color display and up to 14 days of battery life in smartwatch mode. You can download up to 500 songs for phone-free listening. The watch tracks HRV status and provides daily workout suggestions. It suits runners who want detailed training insights and onboard music storage.
- Up to 14 days of battery life in smartwatch mode
- Always-on, full-color display for easy reading
- Download up to 500 songs for phone-free listening
- Tracks HRV status while you sleep
- 46mm case size is larger than the 41mm alternative
- 30 hours of GPS battery life is less than the 255 standard model
- You want onboard music storage for runs
- You prefer a larger 46mm display for readability
- You need detailed HRV and training insights
- You prefer a smaller 41mm case size
- You need LTE connectivity for calls
- You want a non-GPS fitness tracker
Verdict: The Garmin Forerunner 255 Music 46mm Black is a practical choice for runners who prioritize music storage and detailed health metrics over a smaller form factor.
Specifications side by side
| Spec | Garmin Forerunner 255 46mm GPS | Garmin Forerunner 165 Music 43mm | Samsung Galaxy Watch Ultra 47mm LTE | Garmin Forerunner 170 43mm | Garmin Forerunner 165 Music | Garmin Forerunner 245 Music | Garmin Forerunner 255 Music 46mm |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Case Size | 46mm | 43mm | 47mm | 43mm | 43 mm | – | 46mm |
| Battery Life | Up to 14 days | Up to 11 days | – | Up to 10 days | Up to 11 days | up to 7 days in smartwatch mode | Up to 14 days |
| Display Type | Always-on, full-color | AMOLED | – | AMOLED | AMOLED | – | Always-on, full-color |
| Connectivity | GPS | GPS | LTE, GPS | GPS | GPS, Wi-Fi | GPS | GPS |
| Case Material | – | – | Titanium | – | – | – | – |
| Features | – | Music | Heart Rate Monitor | – | Music | Music | Music |
| Activity | Running | Running, Training | Running | Running, Training | Running | Running | Running, Training |
| Color | Slate Gray | Turquoise | Titanium White | Black with Amp Yellow | Turquoise | Aqua | Black |
| Size | 46 MM | 43mm | 47Mm | 43mm | Adjustable | One Size | 46 MM |
| Tracking Features | – | – | Heart Rate Monitoring | – | – | – | – |
| Tracked Metrics | – | – | Heart Rate | – | – | – | – |
| Dimensions | 1.8 × 1.8 × 0.5 inches | 1.69 × 1.69 × 0.46 inches | – | 1.68 × 1.68 × 0.47 inches | 1.69 × 1.69 × 0.46 inches | 1.7 × 1.7 × 0.5 inches | 1.8 × 1.8 × 0.5 inches |
| Weight | 1.7 ounces | 1.38 ounces | 2.13 ounces | 1.4 ounces | 1.38 ounces | 1.28 ounces | 1.7 ounces |
| Model | Forerunner 255 | 010-02863-32 | – | 010-03920-00 | 165 | 010-02120-22 | 010-02641-20 |
Frequently asked questions
Is there a lighter Garmin watch for running?
Yes, the Garmin Forerunner 165 Music 43mm weighs 1.38 ounces. This is lighter than the Forerunner 255, which weighs 1.7 ounces. It features a 43mm adjustable size and an AMOLED display. You also get built-in music storage for phone-free workouts.
Which alternative has a titanium case?
The Samsung Galaxy Watch Ultra 47mm LTE uses a titanium case. It weighs 2.13 ounces and offers a 47mm display. This watch includes LTE connectivity for calls without a phone. It also tracks heart rate for running and general fitness monitoring.
Can I get music storage without buying the Music version?
No, you need a specific model for on-wrist music. The Garmin Forerunner 255 base model lacks music storage. However, the Forerunner 165 Music and Forerunner 255 Music versions include this feature. You can store and play tracks directly from the watch.
What is the smallest size available in this list?
The Garmin Forerunner 165 Music 43mm and Forerunner 170 43mm are the most compact options. They measure 1.69 inches and 1.68 inches in width and length respectively. These sizes fit smaller wrists better than the 1.8-inch Forerunner 255 models.
Does any alternative offer Wi-Fi connectivity?
Yes, the Garmin Forerunner 165 Music supports Wi-Fi. This allows for faster data sync and updates without Bluetooth. Most other listed watches rely on GPS and Bluetooth for connectivity. Wi-Fi is a useful feature for quick smartwatch interactions.
Is there a black color option for the 255?
Yes, the Garmin Forerunner 255 Music 46mm comes in Black. It shares the same 46mm size and 1.7-ounce weight as the Slate Gray version. The black model includes music storage and detailed health metrics for runners who prefer a darker aesthetic.
Which watch has the longest battery life?
The Garmin Forerunner 170 43mm is noted for long battery life. It prioritizes endurance over built-in music storage. While specific day counts are not listed here, it is designed for runners who want extended use between charges. It weighs 1.4 ounces.
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