Deciding between two capable GPS running watches can be a challenge, especially when they share a brand and a focus on performance metrics. If you’re eyeing Garmin’s popular Forerunner series, the Forerunner 35 and Forerunner 235 likely stand out as strong contenders.
Both devices offer reliable GPS tracking and heart rate monitoring, crucial for any serious runner looking to elevate their training. They aim to provide valuable insights into your runs, helping you push your limits and achieve your fitness goals.
However, subtle differences in features, design, and target audience can make one a better fit for your specific needs than the other. This comparison will delve into the key aspects of the Garmin Forerunner 35 and Forerunner 235 to help you make an informed decision.
Specs at a Glance
| Feature | Forerunner 35 | 235 |
|---|---|---|
| Display Size | 0.93″ x 0.93″ | 1.26″ diameter |
| Display Type | Sunlight-visible, transflective memory-in-pixel | Sunlight-visible, transflective memory-in-pixel |
| GPS | Yes | Yes |
| GLONASS | No | Yes |
| Heart Rate Monitor | Yes (Wrist-based) | Yes (Wrist-based) |
| Activity Tracking | Steps, distance, calories, sleep | Steps, distance, calories, sleep |
| Smart Notifications | Yes | Yes |
| Music Control | No | No |
| Water Rating | 5 ATM | 5 ATM |
| Battery Life (Smartwatch Mode) | Up to 9 days | Up to 9 days |
| Battery Life (GPS Mode) | Up to 13 hours | Up to 11 hours |
| Weight | 37.3g | 42g |
Feature-by-Feature Breakdown
GPS Accuracy
- Forerunner 35: Utilizes built-in GPS and GLONASS for reliable tracking of distance, pace, and routes. Generally accurate for most outdoor activities, but can sometimes be less precise in areas with dense tree cover or tall buildings.
- 235: Also features built-in GPS and GLONASS, offering comparable accuracy to the Forerunner 35. Some users report slightly better performance in challenging environments due to antenna design, though the difference is often marginal.
- Winner: Tie
Heart Rate Monitoring
- Forerunner 35: Features Elevate wrist heart rate technology for continuous HR monitoring. It’s convenient for all-day tracking and workouts without a chest strap, but can be less accurate during intense activities or when the watch is not snug.
- 235: Employs Garmin’s Elevate optical heart rate sensor, similar to the 35, for wrist-based HR. It also provides all-day monitoring and workout HR, with similar accuracy limitations during strenuous exercise.
- Winner: Tie
Display
- Forerunner 35: Boasts a sunlight-readable, monochrome display that is easy to view in all lighting conditions. It’s functional and battery-efficient but lacks color and the visual richness of higher-end models.
- 235: Features a color display that offers more vibrant visuals and better readability for certain metrics. While it’s still sunlight-readable, the color can sometimes be a minor battery drain compared to monochrome.
- Winner: 235
Activity Tracking
- Forerunner 35: Tracks steps, calories, distance, sleep, and heart rate 24/7. It provides basic daily activity insights and inactivity alerts to encourage movement.
- 235: Offers comprehensive activity tracking including steps, calories, distance, sleep, floors climbed, and heart rate. It also includes advanced features like VO2 Max estimation and recovery advisor.
- Winner: 235
Running Dynamics
- Forerunner 35: Lacks support for advanced running dynamics metrics. It focuses on core running data like pace, distance, and time.
- 235: Supports advanced running dynamics when paired with a compatible accessory (like a HRM-Run strap). This includes cadence, vertical oscillation, and ground contact time, offering deeper insights into running form.
- Winner: 235
Smartwatch Features
- Forerunner 35: Offers basic smart notifications (calls, texts, app alerts) from a paired smartphone. It also allows for music control on your phone.
- 235: Provides similar smart notifications, music control, and also allows for contactless payments via Garmin Pay (depending on region and bank support). It offers a slightly more integrated smartwatch experience.
- Winner: 235
Battery Life
- Forerunner 35: Offers an impressive battery life of up to 9 days in smartwatch mode and 13 hours in GPS mode. This makes it excellent for multi-day use and long endurance events.
- 235: Provides up to 9 days in smartwatch mode and up to 11 hours in GPS mode. While still very good, it’s slightly less than the Forerunner 35 in GPS mode.
- Winner: forerunner 35
Connectivity & App Ecosystem
- Forerunner 35: Connects via Bluetooth to the Garmin Connect app for data analysis and sharing. It syncs with most popular third-party apps.
- 235: Also uses Bluetooth and Garmin Connect, offering robust data syncing and analysis. It has broader compatibility with third-party apps and services due to its more advanced feature set.
- Winner: 235
Winner by Category
| Category | Winner |
|---|---|
| Value for Money | Forerunner 35 |
| Advanced Running Metrics | 235 |
| Accuracy (GPS/GLONASS) | 235 |
| User Interface/Ease of Use | Forerunner 35 |
| Overall Smartwatch Features | Tie |
| Durability & Build | 235 |
| Battery Life (GPS Mode) | Forerunner 35 |
What They Have in Common
- Built-in Gps: Both watches feature integrated GPS to accurately track your distance, pace, and route during outdoor activities without needing a connected smartphone. This is a fundamental feature for any serious running watch.
- Wrist-Based Heart Rate: Both the Forerunner 35 and 235 utilize Garmin’s Elevate wrist heart rate technology, allowing you to monitor your heart rate continuously throughout the day and during workouts without the need for a chest strap.
- Activity Tracking: Beyond running, both devices offer comprehensive daily activity tracking, including counting steps, estimating calories burned, monitoring distance covered, and analyzing sleep patterns. This provides a holistic view of your health and fitness.
- Smart Notifications: You can receive alerts for incoming calls, texts, and other app notifications directly on your wrist from a paired smartphone. This keeps you connected without having to constantly check your phone.
- Water Resistance: Both watches boast a 5 ATM water rating, meaning they can withstand pressures equivalent to a depth of 50 meters. This makes them suitable for swimming, showering, and general daily wear.
- Connectivity: Both devices connect to Garmin Connect, a comprehensive online platform and app where you can analyze your training data, track progress, participate in challenges, and share your activities with others.
Forerunner 35 Vs 235 Buying Guide
Budget Considerations
When choosing between the Forerunner 35 and the Forerunner 235, your budget will likely be a primary deciding factor. The Forerunner 35 is generally the more affordable option, making it an excellent choice for budget-conscious runners or those new to GPS watches. The Forerunner 235, while older, often holds a slightly higher price point due to its more advanced features and the fact that it was a flagship model in its time. (See Also: Demeyere 5 Plus Vs Atlantis )
Key Feature Prioritization
Consider which features are most important for your running routine. If basic GPS tracking, heart rate monitoring, and smart notifications are all you need, the Forerunner 35 will suffice. However, if you desire more advanced metrics like VO2 Max estimation, recovery advisor, and advanced running dynamics, the Forerunner 235 offers these capabilities. Think about whether these extra features justify the potential price difference for your training needs.
Long-Term Value and Upgradability
While both are older models, consider their long-term value. The Forerunner 35 is simpler and might be more reliable for basic use over a longer period. The Forerunner 235, with its more complex features, might appeal to users who want to delve deeper into performance analysis and potentially stay with the watch longer before upgrading. However, newer Garmin models offer even more sophisticated features, so consider your upgrade path.
Target User Profile
The Forerunner 35 is ideal for casual runners, walkers, and individuals looking for a straightforward, reliable fitness tracker with GPS. It’s perfect for those who want to track their runs, monitor their heart rate, and receive basic notifications without being overwhelmed by too many data points. The Forerunner 235, on the other hand, is better suited for more serious runners who are keen on analyzing their performance in detail, tracking progress, and utilizing advanced training metrics to improve their race times. (See Also: Nikon 50 1 8 Vs 1 4 )
Who Should Buy What?
Buy forerunner 35 If…
- You’re a beginner runner or walker looking for a reliable GPS watch with essential features.
- You prioritize a lightweight and comfortable design for everyday wear.
- Your budget is a primary concern, and you need a capable yet affordable option.
- You don’t need advanced running dynamics or music storage.
Buy 235 If…
- You’re a more serious runner who wants detailed running dynamics like cadence, stride length, and ground contact time.
- You appreciate the added accuracy of GLONASS alongside GPS for more reliable satellite tracking.
- You want a slightly larger and more prominent display for easier readability.
- You’re willing to invest a bit more for enhanced performance metrics and features.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which watch has better battery life?
The Garmin Forerunner 35 generally boasts a slightly longer battery life in GPS mode compared to the Forerunner 235. While both offer several days of use in smartwatch mode, the 35 is often cited as lasting around 9-11 hours in GPS mode, whereas the 235 typically offers around 11-12 hours. This difference might be negligible for most runners but could be a factor for ultra-marathoners.
Does the Forerunner 235 offer more advanced running metrics than the 35?
Yes, the Forerunner 235 significantly surpasses the Forerunner 35 in terms of advanced running metrics. While the 35 provides basic pace, distance, and heart rate, the 235 offers features like VO2 Max estimation, a recovery advisor, cadence, vertical oscillation, and ground contact time. These advanced metrics are invaluable for runners looking to optimize their form and training.
Is the Forerunner 235’s optical heart rate sensor more accurate?
Both the Forerunner 35 and 235 utilize Garmin’s Elevate optical heart rate sensor technology. While the 235’s sensor was introduced later and may have seen minor refinements, the accuracy of optical heart rate sensors can vary significantly based on individual physiology, fit, and activity. For the most accurate heart rate data, both watches still benefit from a chest strap heart rate monitor. (See Also: Samsung Pro Vs Evo 850 )
Which watch is better for swimming?
Neither the Forerunner 35 nor the Forerunner 235 are specifically designed for swimming and lack dedicated swim metrics or water resistance for deep submersion. Both are generally water-resistant for sweat and splashes (rated 5 ATM), making them suitable for casual pool use or showering, but not for lap swimming tracking or open water swimming.
Are both watches compatible with external heart rate monitors?
Yes, both the Forerunner 35 and the Forerunner 235 are compatible with external ANT+ heart rate monitors. This is a crucial feature for runners who prioritize the highest accuracy in heart rate tracking, as chest strap monitors are generally more reliable than wrist-based optical sensors, especially during intense workouts or in cold weather.
Final Verdict
The Garmin Forerunner 235 emerges as the superior choice for dedicated runners seeking in-depth performance analysis. Its advanced metrics like VO2 Max and recovery advisor provide invaluable insights for improvement. While the Forerunner 35 is a solid, budget-friendly option for basic GPS tracking and heart rate monitoring, the 235’s comprehensive feature set makes it a more powerful training tool for those serious about their running progression.
Winner: Garmin Forerunner 235