Garmin Forerunner 735XT

Review Score
84%
🏅 Highly Rated
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Garmin Forerunner 735XT: Review

“A versatile multisport GPS watch with wrist-based heart rate monitoring.”

Overview


The Garmin Forerunner 735XT is a multisport GPS watch designed to cater to the needs of both elite and everyday athletes. This watch is part of the Garmin Forerunner family, known for its advanced training features and versatility across various sports.

Key Features:

  • Elevate Technology: Measures heart rate from the wrist, eliminating the need for a chest strap.
  • Automatic Multisport Function: Seamlessly switch between activities like running, cycling, and swimming with a single button press.
  • Garmin Connect Integration: Offers detailed analytics and customization options through the Connect IQ platform.

The Garmin Forerunner 735XT is an ideal choice for athletes who prioritize heart rate monitoring and multisport functionality. Its integration with Garmin Connect offers comprehensive data analysis, making it suitable for those looking to enhance their training and performance.

With an average review score of 84%, it's in the highest rated 40% of similar running watches. Based on our monitoring of prices across the internet, it's currently in the most expensive 40% of running watches today.

Verdict

The consensus on the Garmin Forerunner 735XT


The Garmin Forerunner 735XT is a well-rounded multisport watch that excels in providing detailed analytics for various activities, including running, cycling, and swimming. Its Elevate Technology allows for wrist-based heart rate monitoring, which is a significant advantage for those who prefer not to use a chest strap. The watch's automatic multisport function is particularly useful for triathletes, allowing seamless transitions between different sports. The integration with Garmin Connect provides users with extensive data analysis and customization options, enhancing the overall training experience. However, some users have noted issues with the accuracy of the altimeter and weather app, which could be improved with software updates. The watch's sporty design may not appeal to those looking for a more fashionable accessory, but its durability and waterproof features make it a reliable choice for athletes. Overall, the Garmin Forerunner 735XT offers excellent value for its features, making it a strong contender in the multisport watch market. It is a solid choice for athletes seeking a comprehensive training tool.

7 Garmin Forerunner 735XT Pros & Cons


4 Pros

Lightweight and comfortable design.
Waterproof up to 50 meters, ideal for swimming.
Advanced heart rate monitoring with Elevate Technology.
Seamless integration with Garmin Connect for detailed analytics.

3 Cons

Priced in the mid to high range.
Some users report issues with altimeter accuracy.
Sporty design may not suit formal settings.

In Depth


Battery life

The Garmin Forerunner 735XT offers impressive battery life, lasting up to 14 hours in GPS mode and up to 264 hours in regular mode. This makes it suitable for long training sessions and events without the need for frequent recharging. The watch's battery level indicator ensures users are always aware of the remaining power, allowing them to plan their activities accordingly. Its rechargeable battery is a convenient feature for athletes who require a reliable power source during extended use.

Screen quality and brightness

The Forerunner 735XT features a 31 mm screen with a resolution of 150 x 215 pixels and a pixel density of 228 ppi. The display is sunlight-visible, making it easy to read even in bright outdoor conditions. This is particularly beneficial for athletes who train outdoors and need to quickly glance at their stats. The transflective memory-in-pixel technology enhances the viewing experience, ensuring clarity and readability in various lighting conditions.

Strap comfort

The watch comes with a silicone band that is praised for its comfort during long-term wear. The material is soft and smooth, providing a 'pinch-free' experience, which is essential for athletes who wear the watch for extended periods. The straps are also replaceable, allowing users to customize the look and feel of their watch according to their preferences.

Heart-rate monitor accuracy

The Garmin Forerunner 735XT utilizes Elevate Technology to measure heart rate directly from the wrist, providing continuous monitoring without the need for a chest strap. This feature is particularly advantageous for athletes who prefer a more convenient and comfortable way to track their heart rate. The watch also supports external heart rate monitors for those seeking more advanced metrics, ensuring accurate and reliable data for training and recovery.

GPS accuracy

The Forerunner 735XT is equipped with a reliable GPS system that accurately tracks distance and pace, making it a valuable tool for runners and cyclists. The GPS functionality is essential for athletes who require precise data for their training sessions. However, some users have reported occasional discrepancies in elevation tracking, which could be addressed with software updates.

Sleep tracking

The watch offers sleep tracking capabilities, allowing users to monitor their sleep patterns and quality. This feature is beneficial for athletes who want to optimize their recovery and overall well-being. The data collected can be analyzed through the Garmin Connect app, providing insights into sleep duration and disturbances, which can help users make informed decisions about their rest and recovery strategies.

Virtual coach and recovery

The Garmin Forerunner 735XT includes features like VO2 max estimation (a measure of the maximum amount of oxygen an individual can utilize during intense exercise) and lactate threshold (the exercise intensity at which lactate starts to accumulate in the blood), which are valuable for athletes looking to optimize their training and recovery. These metrics provide insights into an athlete's fitness level and help tailor workouts to improve performance. The watch also offers smart notifications and goal reminders, acting as a virtual coach to keep users motivated and on track with their training plans.

Who should buy the Garmin Forerunner 735XT?


The Garmin Forerunner 735XT is ideal for athletes who engage in multiple sports and require a watch that can seamlessly transition between activities. Its multi-sport mode and heart rate monitor make it suitable for triathletes and those who participate in running, cycling, and swimming. The watch's integration with Garmin Connect provides detailed analytics, making it a valuable tool for those looking to enhance their training and performance. Athletes who prioritize comfort and durability will appreciate the watch's lightweight design and waterproof features.

Who should not buy the Garmin Forerunner 735XT?


The Garmin Forerunner 735XT may not be the best choice for those who are looking for a more fashionable smartwatch to wear in formal settings. Its sporty design might not appeal to individuals who prefer a sleek and stylish accessory. Additionally, users who require highly accurate elevation tracking might find the altimeter's performance lacking. Those who are on a tight budget might consider other options, as the Forerunner 735XT is priced in the mid to high range. For individuals who primarily focus on a single sport, a more specialized watch might be a better fit.

Garmin Forerunner 735XT: What's it good for?


The Garmin Forerunner 735XT is excellent for multisport athletes who need a watch that can handle various activities like running, cycling, and swimming. Its GPS accuracy and heart rate monitoring make it a reliable choice for training and competition. The watch's sleep tracking and recovery features are beneficial for athletes looking to optimize their rest and performance. With its durable and waterproof design, the Forerunner 735XT is suitable for outdoor enthusiasts who train in various environments.

5 Garmin Forerunner 735XT FAQs


Is the Garmin Forerunner 735XT waterproof?

Yes, the Garmin Forerunner 735XT is waterproof up to 50 meters, making it suitable for swimming and other water-based activities.

Does the Forerunner 735XT have a heart rate monitor?

Yes, it features Garmin's Elevate Technology, which measures heart rate from the wrist, providing continuous monitoring without a chest strap.

How long does the battery last on the Garmin Forerunner 735XT?

The battery lasts up to 14 hours in GPS mode and up to 264 hours in regular mode, depending on usage.

Can the Forerunner 735XT track multiple sports?

Yes, it has an automatic multisport function that allows users to switch between activities like running, cycling, and swimming with ease.

Is the Garmin Forerunner 735XT compatible with external heart rate monitors?

Yes, it is compatible with HRM-Run, HRM-Tri, and HRM-Swim monitors for more advanced metrics.

Garmin Forerunner 735XT alternatives



Garmin Forerunner 735XT
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Garmin Forerunner 735XT
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released
Released
Apr 2016
Nov 2022Oct 2022Oct 2022Oct 2022Oct 2022
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Expert Review Score












Battery life
Battery life
264 hours
672 hours
288 hours
288 hours
288 hours
288 hours
Battery life – GPS mode
Battery life – GPS mode
14 hours
111 hours
28 hours
28 hours
28 hours
28 hours
Screen size
Screen size
31 mm
23 mm
30 mm
30 mm
30 mm
30 mm
Weight
Weight
40 g
65 g
87 g
94 g
88 g
144 g
Height
Height
45 mm
45 mm
46 mm
46 mm
46 mm
46 mm
Resolution
Resolution
150 x 215 px
176 x 176 px
240 x 240 px
240 x 240 px
240 x 240 px
240 x 240 px
Waterproof depth
Waterproof depth
50 m
100 m
100 m
100 m
100 m
Pixel density
Pixel density
228 ppi
283 ppi
283 ppi
283 ppi
283 ppi
Internal storage
Internal storage
0 GB
32 GB
32 GB
Activity Tracking Features
Activity Tracking Features
Activity detectionCoachingDistance trackingElevation trackingGoal settingLive trackingPace measurementRoute uploadsSteps trackingSwim stroke counterSwim stroke recognitionTrackback mode
Activity detectionActivity taggingCoachingDistance trackingElevation trackingLive trackingPace measurementRoute uploadsSteps trackingSwim stroke counterTrackback modeActivity detectionActivity taggingCoachingDistance trackingElevation trackingLive trackingPace measurementRoute uploadsSteps trackingSwim stroke counterTrackback modeActivity detectionActivity taggingCoachingDistance trackingElevation trackingLive trackingPace measurementRoute uploadsSteps trackingSwim stroke counterTrackback modeActivity detectionActivity taggingCoachingDistance trackingElevation trackingLive trackingPace measurementRoute uploadsSteps trackingSwim stroke counterTrackback modeActivity detectionActivity taggingCoachingDistance trackingElevation trackingLive trackingPace measurementRoute uploadsSteps trackingSwim stroke counterTrackback mode
Health tracking features
Health tracking features
BMI trackingCalorie burn trackingPeriod notificationsSleep trackingTemperature tracking
BMI trackingCalorie burn trackingCalorie intake trackingFertility notificationsOvulation predictionPeriod notificationsPeriod start date predictionsSleep trackingTemperature trackingWater intake trackingWeight trackingBMI trackingCalorie burn trackingFertility notificationsOvulation predictionPeriod notificationsPeriod start date predictionsSleep trackingTemperature trackingWater intake trackingBMI trackingCalorie burn trackingFertility notificationsOvulation predictionPeriod notificationsPeriod start date predictionsSleep trackingTemperature trackingWater intake trackingBMI trackingCalorie burn trackingFertility notificationsOvulation predictionPeriod notificationsPeriod start date predictionsSleep trackingTemperature trackingWater intake trackingBMI trackingCalorie burn trackingFertility notificationsOvulation predictionPeriod notificationsPeriod start date predictionsSleep trackingTemperature trackingWater intake tracking
Connectivity Types
Connectivity Types
ANT+Automatic syncingCloud syncingWireless syncing
ANT+NFCANT+Wi-FiANT+Wi-FiANT+Wi-FiANT+Wi-Fi
Sensors
Sensors
AccelerometerCadence sensorCompassGPSHeart rate monitor
AccelerometerBarometerBlood oxygenation monitorBody temperature sensorCompassGalileoGPSHeart rate monitorMonitors perspirationAccelerometerBarometerBlood oxygenation monitorCadence sensorCompassGPSGyroscopeHeart rate monitorAccelerometerBarometerBlood oxygenation monitorCadence sensorCompassGalileoGPSGyroscopeHeart rate monitorAccelerometerBarometerBlood oxygenation monitorCadence sensorCompassGalileoGPSGyroscopeHeart rate monitorAccelerometerBarometerBlood oxygenation monitorCadence sensorCompassGalileoGPSGyroscopeHeart rate monitor
Alerts
Alerts
Inactivity alertsSilent alarmVibrating alerts
Inactivity alertsIrregular heart rate warningsSilent alarmVibrating alertsVoice feedbackInactivity alertsSilent alarmVibrating alertsVoice feedbackInactivity alertsIrregular heart rate warningsSilent alarmVibrating alertsVoice feedbackInactivity alertsSilent alarmVibrating alertsVoice feedbackInactivity alertsSilent alarmVibrating alertsVoice feedback
Screen features
Screen features
Always-on display
Always-on displayAlways-on displaySapphire glassAlways-on displaySapphire glassAlways-on displaySapphire glassAlways-on displaySapphire glass
Battery features
Battery features
Battery level indicatorRechargeable batteryRemovable battery
Rechargeable batterySolar powerRechargeable batteryRechargeable batteryRechargeable batteryRechargeable battery
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Garmin Forerunner 735XT: what the experts say (1 review)

Garmin Forerunner 735XT characteristics and specifications

Specificationsvs Average
Model
735XT
Released
Apr 2016
Battery
Battery life – power saving mode
24 hours
Battery life – training mode
11 hours
Battery life – GPS mode
14 hours
Battery life
264 hours
Measurements
Volume
24 cm³
Width
45 mm
Height
45 mm
Thickness
12 mm
Weight
40 g
Strap width
22 mm
Waterproofing
Waterproof depth
50 m
Screen
Pixel density
228 ppi
Resolution
150 x 215 px
Screen size
31 mm
Temperature
Min. temperature
-10 °C
Max. temperature
50 °C
AuthorTom Green
Tom is the founder of geerly. Based in West London, he found his passion for running in his mid-30s. He’s best at longer distances, and is a regular at the London Marathon, where he's edging closer to sub-2.40. He started geerly because he found it frustrating when shopping for running shoes spending ages trying to find the best deal in his size, and wading through verbose, waffling reviews clearly designed to appeal to search engines rather than be helpful to users. For geerly he's passionate about writing reviews that get straight to the point, and helping runners find the right gear at the best price.
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Tom Green
October 17, 2024 at 9:55 AM
Gunnersbury parkrun #230 (my #3️⃣4️⃣)
📊 Stats by geerly 👟 🕒 Official time: 00:22:45 | Course PB 🚨 🏁 Overall position: 35/549 🚹 Gender position: 21/299 🎯 Age grade: 61%