The Garmin Forerunner 45 is the latest entry-level running watch from the biggest brand in wearable tech.
The Forerunner 245 is just as new, and it brings some powerful technology to the table that you won’t find in the FR45.
But it’s also a lot more expensive.
To help you understand if it’s worth the extra cash, we are going to unpack all the key differences and all the key similarities between these two watches.
Let’s get stuck in.
Garmin Forerunner 45 vs Forerunner 245 - Key Similarities
FR45
SEE PRICEFR245
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Visual Summary of Key Features
Forerunner 45 Product Features
Forerunner 245 Product Features
Features Unique to Garmin Forerunner 245
Before we dive into the features that are only found in the Forerunner 245, it’s worth emphasizing that every feature available in the FR45 is also available in the FR245. Now we can get started.
Music Storage & Apps - FR245 Only
This is one of the defining features of the Forerunner 245. It can store up to 3.5GB of music, and it’s also compatible with the following music apps:
- Spotify
- Deezer
Obviously it helps if you have a good pair of Bluetooth sports headphones as well.
Pulse Oximeter - FR245 Only
Pulse oximeter technology was first introduced with the Garmin Fenix 5X Plus. Now it’s become a standard feature in Garmin’s midrange and high-end GPS watches.
The primary function of the PulseOximter is to measure your blood oxygen saturation levels (Sp02). However, Garmin are also using the PulseOx to improve measurements of your sleep quality, which ties into your overall body battery score.
Advanced Running Metrics
This is another key difference between the Forerunner 45 and the Forerunner 245. The FR245 supports advanced running metrics, whereas the FR45 does not.
If you aren’t sure what this means, the bullet points should help clarify what those advanced running metrics actually are:
- Ground Contact Time (the time your foot spends on the ground with each stride)
- Ground Contact Balance (Symmetry between left and right foot)
- Vertical Oscillation (degree of ‘bounce’ in your running motion)
- Vertical Ratio (the cost-benefit ratio with stride length)
- Cadence (Real time)
- Stride Length (Real time)
However, there is something else you need to know. If you want to measure all the advanced running stat mentioned above, you need to invest in one of the following four accessories:
It doesn’t necessarily matter which one you choose. Personally, I would go with the HRM-Run monitor or the HRM-Tri monitor, because then you can get super accurate heart rate tracking, and advanced running metrics.
Pool Swimming - FR245 Only
This is another key difference between the FR45 and the FR245.
Pool swimming is a pretty cool feature to have, but you can only access it if you opt for the Forerunner 245.
This could be a game changer for people who do lots of pool training. For those who don’t, it doesn’t necessarily matter all that much.
WiFi Connectivity
This might not seem like a big deal, unless you own a Huawei 😂
In all seriousness though, the convenience of WiFi data transfer adds up over time. It’s faster and more efficient than Bluetooth data transfer, and it’s only available on the Forerunner 245.
FR45 vs FR245 - Sports Modes
We’re going to use some super simple tables to show the differences in total sports modes. You can view the comparison table below:
So which one should you buy?
There’s no question that the Forerunner 245 is the more accomplished running watch. It actually gives the Forerunner 645 (Garmin’s advanced level running watch) a serious run for it’s money.
But that doesn’t mean you shouldn’t consider the Forerunner 45. It’s comfortably the best GPS running watch in the $200 price bracket.
Ultimately, when choosing between these two watches, it comes down to this:
Garmin Forerunner 45 Colors
Garmin Forerunner 245 Colors
Please note – The berry version (featured top left above) doesn’t have built in-music. That’s why it’s a bit cheaper.