Garmin Forerunner 255 Music Black Running Watch with GPS Capability 010-02641-20 Review
Overview
The Garmin Forerunner 255 Music is a premium running watch that offers advanced GPS tracking, heart rate monitoring, and music storage capabilities. Ideal for runners who want to track their performance with precision while enjoying their favorite tunes without carrying a phone.
What's In The Box
- Main product
- Carrying case or accessories
- Charging cable
- Documentation
Technical Specifications
| Display | Always-on, full-color display |
| Battery Life | Up to 14 days in smartwatch mode |
| Music Storage | Supports cloud music services and up to 500 songs locally |
| Heart Rate Monitor | Accurate wrist-based HR monitoring |
| Connectivity | Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, and GPS |
| Water Resistance | Up to 5 ATM |
Design & Build Quality
The Garmin Forerunner 255 Music offers a sleek and compact design that is both lightweight and comfortable for prolonged wear. The watch features a durable yet stylish black silicone band that fits securely on the wrist without causing discomfort during intense workouts. The build quality of the device is top-notch, with sturdy construction and water resistance up to 5ATM, making it suitable for various outdoor activities including swimming.
Performance
In real-world use, the Forerunner 255 Music excels in providing accurate GPS tracking and heart rate monitoring during runs. The device's automatic workout detection feature is impressive, as it seamlessly switches between different activity profiles without manual intervention. Additionally, its ability to sync music playlists directly from cloud services or store up to 500 songs locally allows runners to enjoy their favorite tunes while exercising.
Key Feature Analysis
The Forerunner 255 Music's advanced insights and suggested workouts are standout features that make it a valuable tool for serious runners. The watch provides detailed performance metrics, including VO2 max estimation and recovery time suggestions, which help users optimize their training regimen. However, the learning curve associated with setting up music storage might be challenging for first-time users.
Battery Life
One of the Forerunner 255 Music's strongest points is its impressive battery life. With up to 14 days in smartwatch mode, it can easily go weeks without needing a charge when functioning as just a timepiece. Even during heavy usage with GPS and music playback, users can expect a solid 8+ hours of endurance before requiring recharging.
Pros & Cons
Pros
- Accurate GPS tracking and heart rate monitoring
- Automatic workout detection capability
- Up to 500 songs storage or cloud service integration for music
- 14-day battery life in smartwatch mode
- Durable build quality with water resistance up to 5ATM
Cons
- Learning curve for setting up and managing music storage
- Relatively high price point compared to some competitors
- Limited functionality if paired exclusively with Garmin Connect app
- Occasional minor software glitches that can disrupt performance
Final Verdict
The Garmin Forerunner 255 Music is a robust and feature-rich running watch that offers exceptional accuracy, versatile music capabilities, and long battery life. It's highly recommended for athletes who prioritize detailed workout analysis and seamless integration with their favorite tunes.
Who should buy: Ideal for serious runners seeking comprehensive tracking and training insights
Who should skip: Those looking for a more affordable option without advanced features or music storage may want to explore alternatives
