Garmin Forerunner 255 vs Samsung Galaxy Watch 7
The Verdict
Samsung Galaxy Watch 7 edges out Garmin Forerunner 255 in overall capability and modern features. Galaxy Watch 7 offers superior display technology with a vibrant Super AMOLED screen at 396 x 396 resolution and 2000 nits brightness, compared to Forerunner 255's MIP display. Samsung includes comprehensive health sensors: ECG, SpO2, skin temperature, and sleep tracking versus Garmin's absence of ECG and skin temperature monitoring. Both provide 5ATM water resistance, though Samsung adds IP68 and MIL-STD-810H durability ratings. Forerunner 255 compensates with exceptional 30-hour GPS battery life and 14-day smartwatch standby, while Galaxy Watch 7 manages respectable 30-hour mixed usage. Forerunner 255 targets serious runners with specialized sports tracking, whereas Galaxy Watch 7 delivers a more complete smartwatch experience with richer notifications, app ecosystem, and fitness features. Galaxy Watch 7 at $299.99 represents better value for mainstream users seeking comprehensive health monitoring and daily usability.
Who Should Buy
Buy the Garmin Forerunner 255 if…
- →14-day battery life means weekly charging at most
- →Multi-band GPS for exceptional outdoor tracking accuracy
- →Morning Report with daily training readiness and HRV status
Buy the Samsung Galaxy Watch 7 if…
- →New 3nm Exynos W1000 chip is significantly faster than predecessor
- →Dual-frequency GPS (L1 + L5) is rare at this price point
- →Improved BioActive sensor with new AGEs Index for metabolic health
Category Scores
Pros & Cons
Garmin Forerunner 255
Pros
- 14-day battery life means weekly charging at most
- Multi-band GPS for exceptional outdoor tracking accuracy
- Morning Report with daily training readiness and HRV status
- Race Predictor estimates finish times for 5K to marathon
- Lightweight at 49 g and comfortable for 24/7 wear
Cons
- MIP display lacks the vibrancy of AMOLED competitors
- No touchscreen on base model — button-only navigation
- No ECG or blood pressure monitoring
- Limited smart features compared to Apple Watch or Wear OS
- Third-party app ecosystem is small
Samsung Galaxy Watch 7
Pros
- New 3nm Exynos W1000 chip is significantly faster than predecessor
- Dual-frequency GPS (L1 + L5) is rare at this price point
- Improved BioActive sensor with new AGEs Index for metabolic health
- Bright 2000-nit Super AMOLED display with sapphire crystal
- Affordable starting price of $299 for a flagship Wear OS watch
Cons
- Battery life still only ~30 hours with always-on display
- ECG, BP and some health features require a Samsung Galaxy phone
- No physical rotating bezel — only the touch bezel returns
- Design hasn't changed meaningfully from Watch 6
- Not compatible with iPhones
Full Specifications
| Spec | Garmin Forerunner 255 | Samsung Galaxy Watch 7 |
|---|---|---|
| Software | Garmin proprietary OS | Wear OS 5 with One UI Watch 6 |
| Body | ||
| Weight | 49 g | 28.8 g (40mm) |
| Case material | Fiber-reinforced polymer | Aluminum (Armor Aluminum) |
| Water resistance | 5ATM | 5ATM + IP68 + MIL-STD-810H |
| Health & Sensors | ||
| ECG | ||
| SpO₂ | ||
| Skin temperature | ||
| Heart rate | ||
| Sleep tracking | ||
| Battery | ||
| Battery life | Up to 14 days (smartwatch), 30 hrs GPS | Up to 30 hours with always-on display, 40 hours without (300 mAh) |
| Display | ||
| Size | 46mm | 40mm (1.3") |
| Type | MIP (Memory-in-Pixel) transflective | Super AMOLED with Sapphire Crystal glass, up to 2000 nits |
| Always-on display | ||
| Resolution | 260 x 260 | 396 x 396 |
| Processor | ||
| Chipset | Garmin custom SoC | Samsung Exynos W1000 (3nm, 5-core) |
| RAM | — | 2 GB |
| Connectivity | ||
| GPS | ||
| NFC | ||
| Wi-Fi | ||
| Cellular | ||
| Bluetooth | 5.0 | 5.3 |
Related Comparisons
This comparison is based on verified manufacturer specifications covering display, performance, camera, battery, and build quality. Scores are generated by analyzing specs across weighted categories on a 10-point scale. Learn more about our methodology.
Explore more in smartwatches, see all Garmin products or all Samsung products. View full details for the Garmin Forerunner 255 or the Samsung Galaxy Watch 7.