Garmin Forerunner 55
Score: 75/100
Apple Watch SE 3 40mm Starlight
Score: 81/100Rankings
The Apple Watch SE 3 40 mm GPS model provides snappy performance, an always-on display, and core health tracking in a lightweight recycled aluminum case. It lacks cellular and some advanced sensors, and battery life remains limited to a single day. Great for iPhone users wanting a budget-friendly, feature-rich smartwatch.
The Garmin Forerunner 55 is an entry-level GPS running watch with a lightweight design, long battery life and a sunlight-visible MIP display, making it ideal for beginners. Its limitations include a lack of advanced health sensors and modest customization options. Suited for casual runners who want reliable GPS and endurance without premium features.
| Attribute | | |
|---|---|---|
336 hoursbest | 18 hours | |
| ↓ lower better | 37 g | 27.2 gbest |
1.04 inchesbest | — | |
| ↓ lower better | 11.6 mm | 10.7 mmbest |
Click an attribute name to sort · Green = best, red = worst (relative to this comparison)
| Attribute | | |
|---|---|---|
Battery & Power(1) | ||
Battery Life (hours) | 336 hours | 18 hours |
Sensors(1) | ||
SpO₂ Sensor | false | true |
Display(2) | ||
Display Resolution | 208x208 | 324x394 |
Display Type | MIP | Retina LTPO OLED |
Build & Design(3) | ||
Weight (g) | 37 g | 27.2 g |
Thickness (mm) | 11.6 mm | 10.7 mm |
Strap Material | Silicone | Fluoroelastomer |
Products in the top-left offer the best value (high score, low price).
Professional reviewers consider the Forerunner 55 a well-rounded, budget-friendly entry-level running watch. They commend its long battery life, clear display, and reliable wrist-based heart-rate monitoring, while noting the lack of advanced sensors and limited data customization as trade-offs for its price point.
Professional reviewers consider the Apple Watch SE GPS 40mm the best budget Apple Watch, praising its snappy S10 chip, bright 1000-nit OLED display, swimproof design and intuitive gestures, while noting the lack of an always-on screen, missing advanced health sensors and cellular connectivity as trade-offs against higher-end models.
Everyday users love the easy setup, accurate heart-rate and sleep tracking, comfortable lightweight fit and the ability to customize bands, but they commonly complain about the short daily battery life, the small screen size and the absence of Android support or always-on display.
