Comparison Garmin Forerunner 945 vs Fenix ​​5 Plus: the differences, which one to choose?

After the release in 2017 of the 2 Forerunner 935 and Fenix ​​5 models, two watches with identical functions but designed for different uses, Garmin released for 2025 the Fenix ​​5 Plus, even richer in functionality, then, for 2025, the Forerunner 945, replacement for the Forerunner 935, a light running and triathlon watch.

The Forerunner 945 takes over all the functions of the Fenix ​​5 Plus (including color mapping, music and Garmin Pay contactless payment) and adds some really interesting new features.

• Read our detailed review and review of the Forerunner 945
• Read our detailed review and our opinion on the Fenix ​​5 Plus

The Forerunner 945 is a versatile watch but specially designed for triathlon and competition. What are the differences with the Fenix ​​5 Plus? How to choose between the Forerunner 945 and the Fenix ​​5 Plus? You will find below a commented comparison of the 2 models and tips for choosing the watch that best meets your objectives.

Buy the Garmin Forerunner 945

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Buy the Garmin Fenix ​​5 Plus

Garmin Forerunner 945 vs Fenix ​​5 Plus comparison: the main differences

The Forerunner 945 therefore takes all the functions of the Fenix ​​5 Plus (including mapping, an mp3 player, a payment solution) and even the Fenix ​​5X Plus (with its oximeter) and adds new relevant functions and metrics , in particular :

• A Body Battery energy monitoring
• Assessment of acclimatization to heat and altitude
• Incident detection and assistance in the event of an incident
• Defining a training load target
• Training Effect labels (main benefit)
• Measuring the respiration rate
• Indoor running management
• Advanced Vector support
• New optical heart rate sensor designed to work underwater
• A new less energy-consuming GPS chip
• Menstrual cycle monitoring functionality on Garmin Connect ™: all users will benefit. This feature aims to help women make the link between a cycle phase, physical and emotional state, pain, and general well-being.

The aesthetic aspect, the materials, the weight, the size and the autonomy also distinguish the 2 watches and constitute the essential point for choosing between one model or the other.

Garmin Forerunner 945 vs Fenix ​​5 Plus comparison: price and physical characteristics

It is on the design, the size and the that is the main difference which makes the difference between the 2 models and which should guide your choice (read below our advice to help you). The Fenix ​​5 Plus, more chic and more robust than the Forerunner 945, is more designed for outdoor use and to be worn on a daily basis. The light and thin Forerunner 945 is more suited to athletes, especially runners and triathletes. It is ideal for competition or for performance-oriented use.

Aesthetics and weight: the difference that should guide your choice

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