Garmin Forerunner 935 vs. Fenix 5 – Comparison of 2023

Nowadays, we are moving more towards technology, and we need everything to be smart.
It is a way for us to stay up to date with our work, health, emails, and even school.

One of these smart devices we use on a daily basis is a smartwatch, which enables us to micro-manage many tasks without having to use our phones.
Garmin Forerunner 935 and Fenix 5 are two of the best watches you are going to find when looking for a smart fitness watch.
They have many similarities and a few differences. So, if you are confused about Forerunner vs. Fenix 5, then you should read our Garmin Forerunner 935 and Fenix 5 comparison post on them.
Garmin Forerunner 935 vs Fenix 5 Comparison of 2021
Both of the watches have numerous features for which people want to keep using these. But there are some differences between them.
This is something you need to know if you have to make a decision between these two.
Price
For many people, one of the most significant deciding factors between these two products would be the price they are sold at.
The Fenix 5 is a bit higher up in price in comparison to the Forerunner. They have about a $100 difference between them.
You could get the tri-bundle for the Forerunner, which would include three different straps, this would be more expensive in comparison to the Fenix 5.
But at the end of the day, both of the watches are expensive, you have to decide which one has features catered towards your needs.
Related Guide: Fitbit Versa vs Vivoactive 3
Battery Life
For a watch such as this, you would want it to run for a long time, even though they require change, but they should still be able to last the whole day you are moving around.
And for the most part, both of these run for a very long time on stand by mode, up to 2 weeks.
But with the GPS, you would see a very slim difference in the run time. The Fenix 5 would run 30 minutes longer than the Forerunner.
This is not much of a difference when the run time is 22+ hours.
Durability and Design
Both of the watches have a very modern and sleek design. You would be able to wear it with almost anything.
But Fenix 5 is a little better looking a bit more compact, which is why many people opt for it.
As for durability, here as well, we see that the Fenix 5 is able to outperform the Forerunner.
Both are exceptional, but the Fenix will be able to last for a very long time, even under stressful conditions.
Garmin Forerunner 935
In the world of smartwatches, one name that stands out often is Garmin, they produce various types of sportswear and accessories.
Forerunner 935 is one of the most popular products from their line as this is made from some of the best quality material, and it is able to outperform many of its competitors.
Features
Now I am going to go over some of the main features of the Garmin Forerunner 935, so you have a full understanding of the products and what you are going to get if you end up getting it.
Compatible with All Types of Operating Systems
When you get a smartwatch or sportswear such as this, you would want it to sync and connect with the phone you have.
Sometimes these smartwatches can only connect to either iPhone, Android, or Windows phones.
But with the Forerunner, this is not an issue as this is compatible with all of them.
The data collected with the use of the watch, such as heart rate, will also be displayed on the mobile phone app.
So, you will be able to save the data after your workout session.
Monitors Performance
A fitness watch such as this one is bought so that the workout session, run, or any kind of physical training can be monitored.
The watch is supposed to take account of what happens to your body during the workout, and then afterward, it shows you how you have performed.
And the Garmin Forerunner 935 is able to take account of what happens to your body while you’re working out.
You will be able to see how long you rested and the intensity of your workout. You will also be able to compare the data and see the progress you make over time.
Takes Elevation Change into Account
While running, you come across different types of roads and paths. Some of the ones you choose might have a bit of elevation.
Your heart rate is going to escalate when you are going up the hill. And you are also going to burn more calories when you are running up.
The Forerunner has a barometer that takes these things into account, and therefore, it will give you the best figures and data.
You will be able to understand the actual number of calories you burnt during the session.
PROS
CONS
Related Guide: Garmin Forerunner 230 vs 235
Garmin Fenix 5
Just as Forerunner 935, another fitness smartwatch you can use if you are in search of a good one is Fenix 5.
They are both produced by the same company, and the quality of this one is also just as good as the previous one.
Fenix 5 is a very popular choice among many people, and there is a good reason for it.
Features
There are a few very significant features in Fenix 5, which make it a good choice for people planning to train for a run.
Monitors Heart Rate
One of the main reasons why people tend to buy smart fitness watches is to monitor their heart rate when they are exercising.
This allows then to comprehend how intense the workout session was, how many calories they were able to burn during this time, and also how their heart acted under pressure.
The watch can properly find the pulse in the app and is said to provide the most accurate result, so you know what is actually happening during your workout rather than just seeing estimated figures on the screen of your watch.
Shows Progress
With the help of the Fenix 5, you will have all the information statistics and data just a press of the finger away.
During workouts, we are unable to use our phones, thankfully with the watch, this does not remain a problem any longer as you would be able to access all the information through the watch.
Everything in the watch is very systematically arranged, and therefore, you will not have to spend a lot of time scrolling and trying to figure out where everything is.
So, you would really find it assessable during workouts.
Connects to Smartphones
One of the most common features of smartwatches is its ability to connect with smartphones. Through this, you would be able to get various notifications on your watch as well.
So, if you do get a message when you are on the run, you can see the message on the watch as well.
With this added feature, you would not only be able to use the watch while working out, but this would also be your companion when you are going out or even to work if there is no strict dress code you have to follow.
This feature makes it a very well rounded product.
PROS
CONS
Related Comparison: Forerunner 45 vs Garmin Vivoactive 3
Verdict
If you choose between the two products, I would say Fenix 5 is a slightly better product than the Forerunner.
Both of them are very similar to one another, but one is just a little better, which makes all the difference.
But if the price is to be considered, then some might pick the Forerunner to pay $100 less.
Related Topic: Vivoactive 3 vs Apple Watch
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Here we have the most commonly asked queries regarding the products in the debate:
Will I be able to change the language setting of the watch according to my preference?
Yes, you should be able to change the language setting of the watch. However, not all languages might be available.
Does the GPS setting on the watch perform well?
For the most part, the GPS is accurate and works fine.
Can I connect to the Wi-Fi?
For the Fenix 5, you need a Sapphire edition to connect to Wi-Fi.
How long is the battery life?
With the GPS on, it is 23 hours.
Final Words
Now that you have all the information about both the watches, it should be easier for you to decide which is the right option for you.
No matter which one you choose, it should perform well.