Garmin Forerunner 55
Fitness Trackers

Forerunner 55

Garmin

Released Jun 1, 2021 · Analysis updated Mar 12, 2026

Lightweight and easy-to-use fitness tracker with advanced running features and long battery life. The Garmin Forerunner 55 scores 84/100 based on 18 expert reviews in the fitness trackers category. Coverage includes reviews from Runningwarehouse, Pocket-lint, Bestsmartwatches, and Tomsguide.

Critic Score

What's this?
84

based on 18 expert reviews

RunningwarehousePocket-lintBestsmartwatchesTomsguideAdvnture+13 more

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Pros

  • Long battery life(14)
  • Lightweight design(13)
  • Good value(7)
  • Easy to use(7)
  • Advanced running features(6)

Cons

  • Limited metrics(5)
  • No music storage(4)
  • No navigation features(4)
  • No altimeter(3)
  • Lower screen quality(2)

18 Publication Reviews

95
Independent publication

AI summary of this review

For $199, the Garmin Forerunner 55 is a great value that can benefit most runners who don't require an extended battery life of over 20 hours at a time.

Score estimated from the review text

90
Established publication08/2021

AI summary of this review

The Garmin Forerunner 55 is a small, lightweight running watch that ticks the key boxes first, then throws worthwhile features on top of that, which could help you take your run training and racing to...

Score estimated from the review text

90
Independent publication06/2021

AI summary of this review

The Garmin Forerunner 55 is the best entry-level GPS running watch available, offering everything runners need and nothing they don't at an accessible price.

Score estimated from the review text

85
Major publication

AI summary of this review

With advanced training tools typically reserved for more expensive models, the Garmin Forerunner 55 is an excellent smartwatch for new or intermediate runners.

Score estimated from the review text

85
Independent publication03/2025

AI summary of this review

We ranked the dependable Forerunner 55 as our favorite budget Garmin GPS watch - and it's now 25% off

Score estimated from the review text

85
Established publication06/2021

AI summary of this review

The Garmin Forerunner 55 offers excellent value for money with comprehensive running features, good GPS accuracy, and long battery life, though it lacks some advanced features like music storage and a...

Score estimated from the review text

85
Independent publication

AI summary of this review

The Garmin Forerunner 55 is a highly capable running watch that excels at providing real-time performance data and training insights, making it an excellent choice for runners who prioritize functiona...

Score estimated from the review text

85
Independent publication06/2021

AI summary of this review

The Garmin Forerunner 55 is perfect for beginner runners or experienced runners looking for a simple, easy-to-use watch with comprehensive health tracking features.

Score estimated from the review text

85
Independent publication

AI summary of this review

The Garmin Forerunner 55 is an entry-level GPS smartwatch that encourages a healthy lifestyle with activity and heart rate tracking, personalised training, and advanced running data.

Score estimated from the review text

85
Independent publication06/2021

AI summary of this review

The Garmin Forerunner 55 is a light, accurate, and feature-rich GPS watch at $200 that offers excellent value for most runners.

Score estimated from the review text

85
Independent publication08/2024

AI summary of this review

The Garmin Forerunner 55 is an entry-level GPS running watch that successfully converted a technophobe into a consistent runner through its simple interface, affordable price, and helpful training fea...

Score estimated from the review text

83
Major publication11/2021

AI summary of this review

The Garmin Forerunner 55 is a solid choice for runners of all skill levels, offering GPS, heart-rate monitoring, and advanced running features at an affordable price.

Score estimated from the review text

82
Independent publication09/2021

AI summary of this review

The Garmin Forerunner 55 is a practical, rugged-looking fitness tracker that delivers solid functionality at an affordable price, making it a great choice for first-time users.

Score estimated from the review text

82
Independent publication06/2021

AI summary of this review

The Garmin Forerunner 55 is a better running companion than the 45 thanks to new software features, that seek to help you run your best.

Score estimated from the review text

82
Independent publication06/2021

AI summary of this review

Garmin's entry-level watch is now competent and worth buying.

Score estimated from the review text

82
Independent publication03/2023

AI summary of this review

The Garmin Forerunner 55 is a versatile, feature-packed watch that can replace a cycling computer for shorter rides, offering excellent battery life and tracking capabilities despite its smaller displ...

Score estimated from the review text

78
Independent publication11/2024

AI summary of this review

The Garmin Forerunner 55 remains a capable entry-level running watch that does the basics well, offering good value for beginners despite its dated screen and limited advanced features.

Score estimated from the review text

69
Independent publication04/2022

AI summary of this review

A basic GPS watch that will be perfect for those looking to track their activities without the advanced features of higher-end models or extended battery life

Score estimated from the review text