Bang for buck, the Garmin Forerunner 45 is one of the most impressive running watches out there right now. You’ll be hard-pressed to find a more comprehensive device for this price. Yes, it has gaps and compromises, but it also sets the standard for features we now expect in our lower end watches.

Lightweight; Good value; Music controls

Limited sport profiles; Plastic-heavy build; No real swim tracking

: Beginner runners and bargain hunters need look no further than this impressively full-featured watch

Accurate GPS and heart-rate tracking; Garmin Coach compatibility; Supports ANT+ sensors

No swim tracking; Lacks music playback and NFC; Doesn't support Bluetooth sensors

The Garmin Forerunner 45 is cheaper in Black Friday deal

The Garmin Forerunner 45 watch updates its predecessor with a new look and a color display, but remains a solid fitness tracker for runners and anyone else who wants to track their workouts.

Accurate step count and heart rate readings in testing; Long battery life; Comfortable.

No third-party app support; Distance tracking can be better.

In terms of bang for buck, the Garmin Forerunner 45 is one of the most impressive running watches out there right now. You’ll be hard-pressed to find a more comprehensive device for this price. Yes, it has gaps and compromises, but it also sets the standard for features we now expect in our lower end watches. An excellent entry-level option.

Lightweight; Good value; Music controls;

Limited sport profiles; Plastic-heavy build; No real swim tracking

This watch sticks to the basics, but if you're looking for a simple and easy-to-use running watch, plus some added smartwatch features, the Forerunner 45 definitely fits the bill.

Easy to use; Week-long battery life; Works with Garmin Coach;

Doesn’t have full Connect IQ support; Lacks training insights; Limited additional sports tracking;