My biggest issue was size and wanted mapping. was looking to upgrade from vivoactive 4s and was leaning back and forth on a Fenix 6s for months then when this debuted I noticed the size was 2mm smaller the the 945 so I was all in on its 2nd day out. After nearly 6 months using this I can say I would buy it again. The biggest surprise i discovered was the battery life. I get 12 days on a full battery that is with using GPS, Spotify music (Paired w/ wireless ear buds and DOSS Soundbox) yes I can leave my phone home) and the apps. Speaking of GPS the 945 LTE is very accurate on my Runs and Hiking. I paired my 945LTE w/ a Nick Mankey Hook strap and it is much more comfy than the Garmin silicone band. Garmin Pay works great so I do not need to worry if I forget my wallet. I have not used the LTE feature yet but may utilize this feature If I travel out of my home area for an extended amount of time. The sleep seems pretty accurate on my sleep habits but it is very in tune with elevated stress level. Driving on the NYS thruway recently during heavy traffic my watch picked up on elevated stress and notified me to relax. lol. overall, extremely satisfied with the 945 LTE.
Hey Jeff, this is great feedback that I think will help a lot of people with their buying decision. Thank you for taking the time to write up your experience with the 945 LTE. 👌
I love this watch, the freedom of not taking your phone with you and the peace of mind of knowing that you can still reach some one if you need help is priceless.
Yeah, super cool device. I think it’s interesting that Garmin has built out this whole LTE network. Very interesting and I expect to see it used on a lot of devices next year. We’ll see 🤷🏻♂️
@@WhiskyMystery this is absolutely true, I am going through this right now, Garmin actually started a case on it. The livetracking feature, which is needed for the LTE assistance, incident feature, drops and fails to reconnect, making the LTE feature totally useless. I upgraded from the FR 935 to the 945 LTE for the safety features. I have been in constant communications with Garmin and they are working on it but it doesn't look like they are going to figure it out. I hope I'm wrong, its been a few weeks and still no answer as to why it just drops.
@@shaneanthony4337 Sorry to hear that. I worked with them for 2-3 months trying everything. We had two watches originally that had different issues. One would never connect. The other was flakey. Got the first one replaced and I ran with both to do like fo like testing. Either one could lose the connection after an hour of running. In fact I am going to post my final email to Garmin...hang on.
Baja “in the love section of this video“. Awesome video all around you totally nailed all of the summary of features and benefits and gave great thoughts along side at all. Good job!
Thanks Matt for the insightful review. I own a 945 LTE and a Fenix 6 Pro Solar. I got the 945 LTE primarily has a replacement for my 935. And in that role, it was a fine upgrade. I prefer to run and swim with the 945 LTE. I found for other workouts and every day use I prefer the Fenix. I also feel that the Fenix is just a better looking watch in general. The benefit of having both is that with Garmin I can keep them in sync with the Fenix being my primary activity tracker and using 945 LTE for runs or swims. Eventually, I'd like to learn how to get into doing triathlons and will have to look at more of your videos. I live in the Pacific NW.
Awesome Sean! It'd be awesome to see you get into some triathlons! I agree on the Fenix series looking a bit better than the 945. It's that nicer bezel. And I love the solar option.
I love this watch. I would swap back and forth between the 945 LTE and the Fenix 6X Solar. I loved the longer battery and bigger screen of the Fenix but the accuracy and light weight of the 945 kept bringing me back.
I am guessing the next Fenix is going to be the best of both worlds. Thanks so much Brent for watching and commenting on this one. Great feedback for people trying to figure this stuff out! 👌
Great review...945lte user who runs with a friend using forerunner 255. Both gps settings are set to most accurate at 1second recording. During faster shorter intervals, the instant pace on 945lte is consistently behind. For example, on 15second hill reps, my fastest pace is always 30-60seconds slower than the 255. The 255 is more accurate.
It does have a newer GPS chipset in there. Garmin has also done some fantastic work with antenna design and the algorithms for throwing out noise. But the 945LTE is still a great device. I was impressed with it when it came out a while back. Thank you for watching and taking the extra time to comment. I really appreciate it. 👍
For me the original 945 is the best watch Garmin has made so far. Light with all features - super durable. I do also really really like the suunto 9 peak - stuunto nailed it on the looks front and the functions are pretty good if you are just interested in putting it on and off you go for your adventure and it is ok if you don't know all your stats from years ago. I change between these two all the time. thank you for the video. All the best.
Great to know! I’ve been wanting to test something from Suunto for years but they never return my emails. I’ll just have to buy whatever they make next. Thanks for watching and the feedback on the 945! 👍
This was the first time I purchased a "flagship" watch on release and man, I've been loving it. I definitely don't take advantage of even 75% of the features, but for my purposes it does those things very well and it's nice to know if I ever want those other features they're there :) Thanks for the video!!
Thanks for sharing your feedback with the group! Yeah, this watch is really nice. I think it's nice to have the LTE options even if you don't use them all year long.
Lots of great features, but I go everywhere with my phone even on outdoor training activities. Glad to see the sports watches that are pushing innovation forward nonetheless. Hoping some features trickle down to midrange and budget models.
I expect to see a fair amount of trickle down. I actually think Garmin will drop these LTE features into everything next year. Another revenue stream is hard to say no to. Hopefully they also expand on some of these features. I tend to also bring my phone along unless I’m racing. Thank you for watching and taking the extra time to comment. I really appreciate it. 👍
Great content, and that intro and outro are just amazing Matt! I love the floating watch look, and I might steal that from you one day if you do not mind ;-)
Hello Rob and Matt 👋 Just wanted to say that your videos are also truly amazing and I am always excited to see new content when it comes out! In case it's not already said enough, your hard work is truly appreciated and inspiring :)
January 2023 new software version 13.21 allows 945 LTE to be configured from the Connect App like the 955. Each Activity can have Data Screens setup in GC as well as Data Fields, also most all the other settings.
Great video. I recently bought both a Fenix 6 Pro and the 945 LTE with the intention of keeping one and after being able to test each for a few weeks the Fenix 6 Pro is heading back. They are both great watches, and I absolutely love the look of the Fenix, but it's weight (and the amount it moved during activities as a result) was the largest deciding factor. I like that I have the newest sensors, processors, etc and tbh will hardly ever use the LTE feature as most of the time if I am going out on something long enough to want to be sure I can alert others of where I am I will also have my phone. Just subbed and I'm looking forward to more content
Thanks for subscribing AlfuhPAD! Good call and also keep in mind that if a heavy watch bounces around on the wrist, it’ll severely effect optical heart rate accuracy. Hope you enjoy the watch and keep me posted on how it holds up for you! 👌
Great review. I am looking for an upgrade from my highly used, bulletproof garmin fenix 3hr sapphire. Still out on the 945 or wait to see what the Fenix 7 has to offer when it does come out. Thanks again
I say, if you can wait it’d be nice to know what that F7 has to offer. I don’t have any insider info for you and I’m guessing it’ll be next year but think about all of that extra value you’re getting from your old Fenix 3 🙌👏
@@mlegrand it’s been bomb proof and still works well, alittle degradation of battery but sapphire glass is worth every penny. Not one scratch. Thanks for the reviews.
Great video Matt. Thank you for the information. I think it might be my next watch. Just still on the hope that Garmin will give us a new Fenix. Just waiting to see form factor in the Fenix 7s or whatever they call it. If it's smaller I might go with it.
Yeah, I'm sure excited to see what they'll do with the Fenix next also. It's over due. I don't have any insider information but maybe early next year? 🤷♂️ Thanks Hugo!
@@mlegrand yeah hopefully. Because I really really need the upgrade. I do not want to go Fenix 6s, because I think is getting a bit old at the moment. It is a bit of a pickle ehhe
Love the 9X5 series... If I didn't have the Fenix this would be my pick, hands down. I would love to see a day where the flagship watches could integrate the satellite functionality of the InReach with some canned messages. Hiking and Trail running in the backcountry get a little sketchy and LTE won't cut it. I don't personally see the need for the LTE outside of emergencies, but I'm sure some will use it more. LTE/Satellite would be a killer combo to venture far from home and have a backup to your phone with a SOS option. Completely unrelated... Triathlon Christmas sweater season is fast approaching... I hope you've dug them out 😁
Oh yeah! 🎄 I’ll be wearing that sweater non-stop here over the next few weeks! I agree, some sort of connectivity with the InReach system would be amazing. I have a few friends that I honestly worry about when they go out on adventures. 😬 We’ll see what Garmin does with the Fenix 7 series but I’m not too optimistic for satellite functionality. 🤷🏻♂️
Hey Matt, do you think that Garmin is working on a real LTE "smarwatch style" multi-sports watch? With call capabilities, text etc without a smartphone and with an e-sim? Many thanks for this and all your other videos 🙏
I have no idea. I would have thought so after the 945LTE but they haven’t really been moving forward in that direction since 🤷🏻♂️. I have no idea what’s going on over there.
If I were torn between this and the 945, I think I might just save myself the $50. I don't think the increased GPS accuracy is significant enough, in my eyes, and I'd be using a HRM strap when I'm really wanting accurate numbers, there. As for the LTE functionality, I'm not sure they've done enough with it for my taste. I get that it can be used to notify a contact or emergency services when something goes wrong, but almost every smart phone out now has a similar feature. I think the only benefit to this on the watch is that someone could leave their phone at home... Not this guy because I'm, essentially, always on call at work. All in all, you've lead me to believe that it's an awesome watch. I'm just a cheap enough arse to save the $50 and go for the 945, though. LOL
@@mlegrand I think if I'm on the side of the street and one watch says I am while a cheaper (if only slightly) watch says I'm in the middle of the street, I'll go with the cheaper watch. LOL It will be interesting to see where they take the LTE tech, though. And if anyone else will jump on it.
Lovely video here. Had me thinking....what functional impact do you think a feature rich watch has on an athlete's results? Super tricky to measure, I know. I'm very interested in where we hit a point of diminishing returns. My instinct solar has a lot of the features, whether the oldness/outdated-ness inhibits performance is a question I think about often. I would love to see an unofficial Matt LeGrand chart of Utility and a line up. Much love buddy!
If you look at my running performances over the last 20 years, I'd say as the sports tech feature list has increased, my performance has fallen off the chart with both mileage and speed. 😂 But in all reality, I'm guessing that all of this isn't super helpful to performance benefits. I think it's all about having a good training plan, sticking to it year after year and people get faster. So maybe it's a matter of keeping people motivated vs giving them race prediction times and LTE features. 🤷🏻♂️ who knows. I'm sure there are a few people that feel one of these watches helped them get fit.
@@mlegrand don't get me wrong, my watch has changed my fitness life for the better, just curious how thinly we're slicing the cheese these days! Always enjoy listening to you talk about the goodies. 945 v. Enduro, which one are you reaching for!? (SAY ENDURO, SAY ENDURO!)
@@mlegrand it has been gone a while (right?). You stopped comparing stuff to it, so I assumed the worst! I hope the Eunduro is enjoying retirement thought!
Still not available in UK I want it just because its bigger than 745 and smaller than 945 though I will miss 745 watch face with training load love that watch face it's so satisfying after a hard workout
Yeah, people love that. I wonder if someone has made a Connect IQ version of that. 🤔 I’m also super curious about what’s next. You’d think a Fenix would be coming some time next year. 🤷🏻♂️
@@mlegrand I love that 745 default face can display weekly distance and recovery time too as well as the training load. That's the most useful data imo. Unfair 745 has 945 face but not vice versa. You'd think each jump in model would aquire the lower end watch faces so 945 should have all of them. I think Garmins x45 and fenix lines are too good compared to competition to bring out next gen yet.
I’ve been using the Wahoo Bolt v2 & Rival for the past few months after using the Garmin 935 & Edge 520. They work fine but there are major issues with the elevation data that they record. Also, touchless transitions and handover is hit & miss and frustrating when it doesn’t work during a race. I’m also missing the 3rd party integration with devices like the Stryd foot pod and Form swim goggles. So I’m thinking about returning them to REI and going back to Garmin with the 945 LTE & Edge 830.
It’s not a bad idea. I have also used the Rival in two races and the touchless transition feature worked for one. 😬 I’d expect the Rival to improve but the 945 lte and 830 would be a nice solid combination. I will say that they have significantly improved since the 935 and 520. I still prefer the ergonomics of the wahoo computer so I guess they each have their strengths. 🤷🏻♂️
@@mlegrand Definite tradeoffs for sure. I love the vision that Chip & Wahoo have for the Rival and have hope for future iterations on it. Thanks for all the great content Matt!
Really great video Matt thx a lot! I'm really hesitating between buying the fenix 7 or the 945 LTE Bundle (almost same price). Really hard choice for me, what would you choose?? (i do triathlon but i also want a daily wearable watch and pretty lightweight) i have an old forerunner 235 ATM...
Fenix 7 would be a really nice option if you could handle that extra weight. Otherwise the 945 LTE is still a good option. When are you thinking of updating?
@@mlegrand Thx a lot for the answer!! the update will probably be in a few days/weeks unless Garmin release a new 955 with the latest options of the fenix 7 (ltouch screen + adjusting the windows setup with the app...)
@@Nat-DAVID - Yeah, the 955 has to be coming at some point soon. I don't have any insider info but if they want to take advantage of the triathlon market, I'd guess some time between now and mid-summer. 🤷♂️
@@mlegrand thx a lot for taking the time to answer my question! I agree with the triathlon market... but i'll probably go for the fenix 7 even if it's a bit heavier because the new features are great.
@@Nat-DAVID - I think that's a safe bet. If the 955 does come out, I wouldn't expect it to be as nice as the Fenix just because of that need for Garmin to justify the price differences. So they'll hold something back for sure. Let me know what you end up thinking of the Fenix. 👌
Hello maTT, great content, i have a question. Ive been wearing my apple 6 and my garmin 945 lte at the same time since i got my 945 few days ago. Trying my best to compare the data and learn about the differences. while doing normal get up and go to the restroom and or go grab lunch which requires walking and moving etc. the apple is much more lenient on what it counts as active calories currently as we speak 250 cals. Garmin 28 cals. (huge difference imo) I wonder what you thought on who might be more accurate on this. I started my day at 5am and currently is 3pm The numbers are pretty far apart between the 2. Thanks for any input and great content none activitiy (active) cals burned - more lenient is apple running cals burned - more lenient is 945 LTE weight lifting cals burned - almost the same amount, i call it a tie.
This is a great question and it’s so hard to judge because we don’t have a ‘correct answer’ to compare and see which is closest. I would probably lean towards the Apple Watch but we really don’t know. I also have a 945 and Apple Watch on. I’ll have a series 7 review out here at some point soon. Thank you for watching and taking the extra time to comment. I really appreciate it. 👍
@@mlegrand it seemd like garmin is making you work for those (active non "activity calories" burned) vs the apple watch 6. the apple watch 6 seems to be giving you more active calories burned while going about your normal day which may include sitting, walking, taking out the trash etc. where as garmin I notice you actually have to be moving to get the calories moving on the watch. at work i sit 12 hours a day and yesterday garmin said i burned 81 active cals apple said i burned 400 active cals through out my day. this is with no strenous activity at all.. I wonder what you think may be closer to the truth? lol
They really are similar to that or the Garmin live events features just going over a different network. One difference is that someone following your race can send you a text message to your watch. So I could send you a message while your biking “Snipped and Clipped In!” And it would show on your watch. 👌
Thanks for the great video. I use the 945 LTE as well and can confirm, that it is a very good watch. I only have an issue with lap swimming, as I have to hit the wall in order to get the watch counting the lap. Did you see that behavior as well?
It’s not something I’ve noticed. I typically do a flip turn but I do sometimes see a bit of a delay in distance being displayed. I’ve also noticed that it’ll occasionally miss or mix up a lap depending on if I’m doing basic free style or drills. It’s not perfect but no watch tracks laps perfectly in my experience. Thank you for watching and taking the extra time to comment. I really appreciate it. 👍
Hi Matt, I have picked up a 945lte and can't seem to get livetrack to work without my phone. Do you have a video on trouble shooting or even set up to see if I have missed something?
I swear, the wait for the Fenix 7 VS just buying the 945 LTE right now, this minute, today...is infuriating. Things I think will make the Fenix wait worthwhile: battery life closer to Enduro, use of velcro/nylon strap to stop bouncing around, addition of LTE, hopefully lighter weight compared to 6 series, maybe USB C charging? Despite being quite anti-touch screen after owning and racing with a Spartan Ultra, I'm starting to think it might be quite nice as an optional on/off feature for map viewing and zoom/scroll. Ugh. First-world problems eh?
😂 - My gut feeling is that you’ll probably get 1-2 of your feature wish list and then something else unexpected. But honestly I have no idea. The 945 LTE is great but if you can wait, I’d wait. I don’t think they’ll drop anything else this year. They’ve already missed that holiday shopping window. But again, what do I know. 🤷🏻♂️
Matt, have you noticed in your research that there is any difference in mapping detail between 945 LTE and Fenix 6 Pro? ie. topography, trails showing up (or not), etc.
That’s a great question and I haven’t been able to compare the two. I don’t have the Fenix 6 Pro on hand any more. I would expect you may get better and more detailed maps with it. Visibility is probably a bit better with the larger screen as well. Thank you for watching and taking the extra time to post this question Scott. I really appreciate it. 👍
I'm thinking about buying this watch. I started having some elevation issues with my current 945 did a bunch of troubleshooting with Garmin and they're unable to resolve the issue. If you happen to have any good discount codes let me know! 😆
Yeah, I posted a discount code in the description. I’m guessing that elevation issue is due to the temperature gauge giving out? We should have Black Friday deals and eventually new watches if you can wait a while.
Hi, there's something about the LTE function that you briefly mentioned at minute 6: if you don't have your phone with you and have the Live Track on, you can receive messages but you cannot reply. If this is true it would make the LTE function pretty useless for me, I mainly bought this watch to be able to tell my wife things like "I got a flat tire" or "I'm running late"
Hi Plinio, Garmin is changing and updating these LTE functions as they continue to develop features. I'm sure they'll set up some sort of way to reply eventually. I was just surprised with how limited the LTE features were at the time of recording this video. Thank you for watching and taking the extra time to comment. I really appreciate it. 👍
@@mlegrand it's pretty weird because you can send messages (also pre-set) when your phone is around. Point is one invests the extra money for the LTE function to - ideally - never have the phone around while running/cycling
As far as I know, they are 100% unrelated. If the LTE options are enabled it does take a toll on the battery life. ☠️ 🔋 Thank you for watching and taking the extra time to comment. I really appreciate it. 👍
Somehow the Garmin watches are so similar, the added features for the REALLY expensive ones are just gimmicks imo. The Edge bike computers though are real value monsters imo
I think even Matt noted this in one his videos, it almost seems that Garmin is holding back on some features on the cheaper watches. Eg; not keeping an open water swim mode on FR55.
Yeah, it's interesting where they draw the line on some features. I'm not sure about Open Water swimming but the sleep tracking widget, which I really enjoy, seems like it could be on all of their watches. Seems like it just needs an accelerometer and heart rate monitor right? I have so many questions for a Garmin engineer. Thanks for the comment Christoph!
Hi Ze! The 945 has a Strength activity type. I'm not sure about a widget but the widgets and most of the watch ui is very similar between the 945 and the Fenix. The Fenix tends to have a bit nicer bezel. There was a killer deal on the Fenix about a week ago and the 945 was also about $100 off. It's a good time to be buying but it could also mean that Garmin is gearing up to release a new version of these devices. 🤷🏻♂️ Thank you for watching and taking the extra time to comment. I really appreciate it. 👍
I see the 945 LTE cost for 485 (with tax). The Epix gen 2, sapphire black purchased for a total of 850 (with tax!). I have not turned on the epix and I'm afraid to! I'm on older athlete that needs reading glasses to see much of what smaller screens show (like the 945 I think) and I do some mountain backpacking in the summer, trail running, occasional trail events, crossfit. Is the Epix overkill? Shall I get the 945 LTE ? I am worried about my vision. I struggled with the coros apex which I returned. SO... what would you do if you were me?
If you can get a deal on the Epix, I'd try it. The price is probably my biggest complaint. If vision is your main concern it's going to be the clearest display of the group. Keep me posted and let me know what you think. 👍
@@mlegrand I sent my Epix 2 back after a few days as I found it more challenging to see the figures on the activity screens in the light then the FR745 I had at that stage. Just got the FR 945 LTE on these mega price drop sales. Its a great piece. Thanks for the video.
I sent my Epix 2 back after a few days as I found it more challenging to see the figures on the activity screens in the light then the FR745 I had at that stage. Just got the FR 945 LTE on these mega price drop sales. Its a great piece. Thanks for the video.
@@stephenrobinson4449 - thanks for the feedback Stephen. Keep me posted on what you think of the 945LTE. It should be getting some cool software updates. 👌
That is a Fitbit Charge 5. Review coming . . . some day. I've been using it for about 5 weeks and just haven't had time to write up my thoughts. Also, Apple Watch series 7 is in the mail.
My biggest issue was size and wanted mapping. was looking to upgrade from vivoactive 4s and was leaning back and forth on a Fenix 6s for months then when this debuted I noticed the size was 2mm smaller the the 945 so I was all in on its 2nd day out. After nearly 6 months using this I can say I would buy it again. The biggest surprise i discovered was the battery life. I get 12 days on a full battery that is with using GPS, Spotify music (Paired w/ wireless ear buds and DOSS Soundbox) yes I can leave my phone home) and the apps. Speaking of GPS the 945 LTE is very accurate on my Runs and Hiking. I paired my 945LTE w/ a Nick Mankey Hook strap and it is much more comfy than the Garmin silicone band. Garmin Pay works great so I do not need to worry if I forget my wallet. I have not used the LTE feature yet but may utilize this feature If I travel out of my home area for an extended amount of time. The sleep seems pretty accurate on my sleep habits but it is very in tune with elevated stress level. Driving on the NYS thruway recently during heavy traffic my watch picked up on elevated stress and notified me to relax. lol. overall, extremely satisfied with the 945 LTE.
Hey Jeff, this is great feedback that I think will help a lot of people with their buying decision. Thank you for taking the time to write up your experience with the 945 LTE. 👌
I love this watch, the freedom of not taking your phone with you and the peace of mind of knowing that you can still reach some one if you need help is priceless.
Yeah, super cool device. I think it’s interesting that Garmin has built out this whole LTE network. Very interesting and I expect to see it used on a lot of devices next year. We’ll see 🤷🏻♂️
Have you found LTE reliable? I have tried three 945 LTE's and the are all flakey with the network connection getting dropped or not starting.
@@WhiskyMystery this is absolutely true, I am going through this right now, Garmin actually started a case on it. The livetracking feature, which is needed for the LTE assistance, incident feature, drops and fails to reconnect, making the LTE feature totally useless. I upgraded from the FR 935 to the 945 LTE for the safety features. I have been in constant communications with Garmin and they are working on it but it doesn't look like they are going to figure it out. I hope I'm wrong, its been a few weeks and still no answer as to why it just drops.
I might add I love the watch for everything else, awesome watch except for the LTE feature
@@shaneanthony4337 Sorry to hear that. I worked with them for 2-3 months trying everything. We had two watches originally that had different issues. One would never connect. The other was flakey. Got the first one replaced and I ran with both to do like fo like testing. Either one could lose the connection after an hour of running. In fact I am going to post my final email to Garmin...hang on.
Baja “in the love section of this video“. Awesome video all around you totally nailed all of the summary of features and benefits and gave great thoughts along side at all. Good job!
Thanks buddy! 🙏
Thanks Matt for the insightful review. I own a 945 LTE and a Fenix 6 Pro Solar. I got the 945 LTE primarily has a replacement for my 935. And in that role, it was a fine upgrade. I prefer to run and swim with the 945 LTE. I found for other workouts and every day use I prefer the Fenix. I also feel that the Fenix is just a better looking watch in general. The benefit of having both is that with Garmin I can keep them in sync with the Fenix being my primary activity tracker and using 945 LTE for runs or swims. Eventually, I'd like to learn how to get into doing triathlons and will have to look at more of your videos. I live in the Pacific NW.
Awesome Sean! It'd be awesome to see you get into some triathlons! I agree on the Fenix series looking a bit better than the 945. It's that nicer bezel. And I love the solar option.
Matt LeGrand But also easier to scratch. That's the only concern about fenix series. I wish we could replace the steel bezels.
@@hdmedia7404 - Maybe a titanium bezel and sapphire lens for the next one.
I love this watch. I would swap back and forth between the 945 LTE and the Fenix 6X Solar. I loved the longer battery and bigger screen of the Fenix but the accuracy and light weight of the 945 kept bringing me back.
I am guessing the next Fenix is going to be the best of both worlds. Thanks so much Brent for watching and commenting on this one. Great feedback for people trying to figure this stuff out! 👌
Great review...945lte user who runs with a friend using forerunner 255. Both gps settings are set to most accurate at 1second recording. During faster shorter intervals, the instant pace on 945lte is consistently behind. For example, on 15second hill reps, my fastest pace is always 30-60seconds slower than the 255. The 255 is more accurate.
It does have a newer GPS chipset in there. Garmin has also done some fantastic work with antenna design and the algorithms for throwing out noise. But the 945LTE is still a great device. I was impressed with it when it came out a while back. Thank you for watching and taking the extra time to comment. I really appreciate it. 👍
@@mlegrand No prob...IMHO, the 255 is a better buy at this point.
For me the original 945 is the best watch Garmin has made so far. Light with all features - super durable. I do also really really like the suunto 9 peak - stuunto nailed it on the looks front and the functions are pretty good if you are just interested in putting it on and off you go for your adventure and it is ok if you don't know all your stats from years ago. I change between these two all the time. thank you for the video. All the best.
Great to know! I’ve been wanting to test something from Suunto for years but they never return my emails. I’ll just have to buy whatever they make next. Thanks for watching and the feedback on the 945! 👍
This was the first time I purchased a "flagship" watch on release and man, I've been loving it. I definitely don't take advantage of even 75% of the features, but for my purposes it does those things very well and it's nice to know if I ever want those other features they're there :) Thanks for the video!!
Thanks for sharing your feedback with the group! Yeah, this watch is really nice. I think it's nice to have the LTE options even if you don't use them all year long.
Sure do love this review of the 945LTE as I love the 945 already. Another great video and review!
Thanks Dove! 🙏
Lots of great features, but I go everywhere with my phone even on outdoor training activities. Glad to see the sports watches that are pushing innovation forward nonetheless. Hoping some features trickle down to midrange and budget models.
I expect to see a fair amount of trickle down. I actually think Garmin will drop these LTE features into everything next year. Another revenue stream is hard to say no to. Hopefully they also expand on some of these features.
I tend to also bring my phone along unless I’m racing. Thank you for watching and taking the extra time to comment. I really appreciate it. 👍
Great content, and that intro and outro are just amazing Matt! I love the floating watch look, and I might steal that from you one day if you do not mind ;-)
Hello Rob and Matt 👋 Just wanted to say that your videos are also truly amazing and I am always excited to see new content when it comes out! In case it's not already said enough, your hard work is truly appreciated and inspiring :)
Steal away buddy! Can’t wait to see it! 🙌
@Raysen Ozvord - I agree. I love his videos! 👏
January 2023 new software version 13.21 allows 945 LTE to be configured from the Connect App like the 955. Each Activity can have Data Screens setup in GC as well as Data Fields, also most all the other settings.
Oh that's an awesome update. Thanks for pointing that out for us Carl!!!
Hey so you have the hrv Status too ? You watch work fine in running swimming and biking ?😅
Great video. I recently bought both a Fenix 6 Pro and the 945 LTE with the intention of keeping one and after being able to test each for a few weeks the Fenix 6 Pro is heading back. They are both great watches, and I absolutely love the look of the Fenix, but it's weight (and the amount it moved during activities as a result) was the largest deciding factor. I like that I have the newest sensors, processors, etc and tbh will hardly ever use the LTE feature as most of the time if I am going out on something long enough to want to be sure I can alert others of where I am I will also have my phone. Just subbed and I'm looking forward to more content
Thanks for subscribing AlfuhPAD! Good call and also keep in mind that if a heavy watch bounces around on the wrist, it’ll severely effect optical heart rate accuracy. Hope you enjoy the watch and keep me posted on how it holds up for you! 👌
Great review. I am looking for an upgrade from my highly used, bulletproof garmin fenix 3hr sapphire. Still out on the 945 or wait to see what the Fenix 7 has to offer when it does come out. Thanks again
I say, if you can wait it’d be nice to know what that F7 has to offer. I don’t have any insider info for you and I’m guessing it’ll be next year but think about all of that extra value you’re getting from your old Fenix 3 🙌👏
@@mlegrand it’s been bomb proof and still works well, alittle degradation of battery but sapphire glass is worth every penny. Not one scratch. Thanks for the reviews.
wow, didnt know this existed until you mentioned it in enduro video! subscribed!
Thanks for subscribing Toosas!
great review of this watch! my fenix3 is still kicking it so as long this last me i am good
Good call! I like when people say their watch is still kicking. It’s good to know these watches can go for years. 👌
@@mlegrand ya, i try to make them last until they break or what not. Garmin sold me it for $100 after my fenix2 got replace a few times.
Great video Matt. Thank you for the information. I think it might be my next watch. Just still on the hope that Garmin will give us a new Fenix. Just waiting to see form factor in the Fenix 7s or whatever they call it. If it's smaller I might go with it.
Yeah, I'm sure excited to see what they'll do with the Fenix next also. It's over due. I don't have any insider information but maybe early next year? 🤷♂️ Thanks Hugo!
@@mlegrand yeah hopefully. Because I really really need the upgrade. I do not want to go Fenix 6s, because I think is getting a bit old at the moment. It is a bit of a pickle ehhe
Love the 9X5 series... If I didn't have the Fenix this would be my pick, hands down. I would love to see a day where the flagship watches could integrate the satellite functionality of the InReach with some canned messages. Hiking and Trail running in the backcountry get a little sketchy and LTE won't cut it. I don't personally see the need for the LTE outside of emergencies, but I'm sure some will use it more. LTE/Satellite would be a killer combo to venture far from home and have a backup to your phone with a SOS option.
Completely unrelated... Triathlon Christmas sweater season is fast approaching... I hope you've dug them out 😁
Oh yeah! 🎄 I’ll be wearing that sweater non-stop here over the next few weeks!
I agree, some sort of connectivity with the InReach system would be amazing. I have a few friends that I honestly worry about when they go out on adventures. 😬
We’ll see what Garmin does with the Fenix 7 series but I’m not too optimistic for satellite functionality. 🤷🏻♂️
I just got the Garmin FR 945 from my 235. Very good upgrade, I was looking at the LTE but I'm like, ehh, should be enough! :)
Yeah, it’s just little stuff. Nothing critical. You’ll love that 945. Hope training is going well!
Hey Matt, do you think that Garmin is working on a real LTE "smarwatch style" multi-sports watch? With call capabilities, text etc without a smartphone and with an e-sim? Many thanks for this and all your other videos 🙏
I have no idea. I would have thought so after the 945LTE but they haven’t really been moving forward in that direction since 🤷🏻♂️. I have no idea what’s going on over there.
If I were torn between this and the 945, I think I might just save myself the $50. I don't think the increased GPS accuracy is significant enough, in my eyes, and I'd be using a HRM strap when I'm really wanting accurate numbers, there. As for the LTE functionality, I'm not sure they've done enough with it for my taste. I get that it can be used to notify a contact or emergency services when something goes wrong, but almost every smart phone out now has a similar feature. I think the only benefit to this on the watch is that someone could leave their phone at home... Not this guy because I'm, essentially, always on call at work.
All in all, you've lead me to believe that it's an awesome watch. I'm just a cheap enough arse to save the $50 and go for the 945, though. LOL
Yup, I often think when testing GPS accuracy, “who the hell cares”. 🤷🏻♂️
I do expect more LTE features to trickle back n over the years.
@@mlegrand I think if I'm on the side of the street and one watch says I am while a cheaper (if only slightly) watch says I'm in the middle of the street, I'll go with the cheaper watch. LOL
It will be interesting to see where they take the LTE tech, though. And if anyone else will jump on it.
The biggest consideration imo is the size. Otherwise I agree with you. I’ve had both and the LTE disappears on the wrist
@@DesertTriDad that's fair.
I found the LTE connection to be unreliable. Not good enough to leave the phone.
Garmin are made to last brother! I always use my for jumping out of airplanes, long ruck marches and the shooting range.
I love it when people tell me how long their watches have lasted. Good to get your money’s worth! 👌
Lovely video here. Had me thinking....what functional impact do you think a feature rich watch has on an athlete's results? Super tricky to measure, I know. I'm very interested in where we hit a point of diminishing returns. My instinct solar has a lot of the features, whether the oldness/outdated-ness inhibits performance is a question I think about often. I would love to see an unofficial Matt LeGrand chart of Utility and a line up. Much love buddy!
If you look at my running performances over the last 20 years, I'd say as the sports tech feature list has increased, my performance has fallen off the chart with both mileage and speed. 😂 But in all reality, I'm guessing that all of this isn't super helpful to performance benefits. I think it's all about having a good training plan, sticking to it year after year and people get faster. So maybe it's a matter of keeping people motivated vs giving them race prediction times and LTE features. 🤷🏻♂️ who knows. I'm sure there are a few people that feel one of these watches helped them get fit.
@@mlegrand don't get me wrong, my watch has changed my fitness life for the better, just curious how thinly we're slicing the cheese these days! Always enjoy listening to you talk about the goodies.
945 v. Enduro, which one are you reaching for!? (SAY ENDURO, SAY ENDURO!)
@@kithinders1086 _ the Enduro is gone. 😢 I’ve been missing it but there’s a lot of watches here to reach for so I’ll survive somehow.
@@mlegrand it has been gone a while (right?). You stopped comparing stuff to it, so I assumed the worst!
I hope the Eunduro is enjoying retirement thought!
@@kithinders1086 - Someone won it and it’s enjoying a wonderful life somewhere out amongst the trails and wilderness 🎄
Still not available in UK I want it just because its bigger than 745 and smaller than 945 though I will miss 745 watch face with training load love that watch face it's so satisfying after a hard workout
Yeah, people love that. I wonder if someone has made a Connect IQ version of that. 🤔 I’m also super curious about what’s next. You’d think a Fenix would be coming some time next year. 🤷🏻♂️
@@mlegrand I love that 745 default face can display weekly distance and recovery time too as well as the training load. That's the most useful data imo. Unfair 745 has 945 face but not vice versa. You'd think each jump in model would aquire the lower end watch faces so 945 should have all of them. I think Garmins x45 and fenix lines are too good compared to competition to bring out next gen yet.
Great video!
Thanks for the kind words Tyrese! And thank you for watching and taking the extra time to comment. I really appreciate it. 👍
I’ve been using the Wahoo Bolt v2 & Rival for the past few months after using the Garmin 935 & Edge 520. They work fine but there are major issues with the elevation data that they record. Also, touchless transitions and handover is hit & miss and frustrating when it doesn’t work during a race. I’m also missing the 3rd party integration with devices like the Stryd foot pod and Form swim goggles. So I’m thinking about returning them to REI and going back to Garmin with the 945 LTE & Edge 830.
It’s not a bad idea. I have also used the Rival in two races and the touchless transition feature worked for one. 😬
I’d expect the Rival to improve but the 945 lte and 830 would be a nice solid combination. I will say that they have significantly improved since the 935 and 520.
I still prefer the ergonomics of the wahoo computer so I guess they each have their strengths. 🤷🏻♂️
@@mlegrand Definite tradeoffs for sure. I love the vision that Chip & Wahoo have for the Rival and have hope for future iterations on it. Thanks for all the great content Matt!
Really great video Matt thx a lot! I'm really hesitating between buying the fenix 7 or the 945 LTE Bundle (almost same price). Really hard choice for me, what would you choose?? (i do triathlon but i also want a daily wearable watch and pretty lightweight) i have an old forerunner 235 ATM...
Fenix 7 would be a really nice option if you could handle that extra weight. Otherwise the 945 LTE is still a good option. When are you thinking of updating?
@@mlegrand Thx a lot for the answer!! the update will probably be in a few days/weeks unless Garmin release a new 955 with the latest options of the fenix 7 (ltouch screen + adjusting the windows setup with the app...)
@@Nat-DAVID - Yeah, the 955 has to be coming at some point soon. I don't have any insider info but if they want to take advantage of the triathlon market, I'd guess some time between now and mid-summer. 🤷♂️
@@mlegrand thx a lot for taking the time to answer my question! I agree with the triathlon market... but i'll probably go for the fenix 7 even if it's a bit heavier because the new features are great.
@@Nat-DAVID - I think that's a safe bet. If the 955 does come out, I wouldn't expect it to be as nice as the Fenix just because of that need for Garmin to justify the price differences. So they'll hold something back for sure. Let me know what you end up thinking of the Fenix. 👌
Hello maTT, great content, i have a question. Ive been wearing my apple 6 and my garmin 945 lte at the same time since i got my 945 few days ago. Trying my best to compare the data and learn about the differences. while doing normal get up and go to the restroom and or go grab lunch which requires walking and moving etc. the apple is much more lenient on what it counts as active calories currently as we speak 250 cals. Garmin 28 cals. (huge difference imo) I wonder what you thought on who might be more accurate on this. I started my day at 5am and currently is 3pm The numbers are pretty far apart between the 2. Thanks for any input and great content
none activitiy (active) cals burned - more lenient is apple
running cals burned - more lenient is 945 LTE
weight lifting cals burned - almost the same amount, i call it a tie.
This is a great question and it’s so hard to judge because we don’t have a ‘correct answer’ to compare and see which is closest. I would probably lean towards the Apple Watch but we really don’t know. I also have a 945 and Apple Watch on. I’ll have a series 7 review out here at some point soon. Thank you for watching and taking the extra time to comment. I really appreciate it. 👍
@@mlegrand it seemd like garmin is making you work for those (active non "activity calories" burned) vs the apple watch 6. the apple watch 6 seems to be giving you more active calories burned while going about your normal day which may include sitting, walking, taking out the trash etc. where as garmin I notice you actually have to be moving to get the calories moving on the watch. at work i sit 12 hours a day and yesterday garmin said i burned 81 active cals apple said i burned 400 active cals through out my day. this is with no strenous activity at all.. I wonder what you think may be closer to the truth? lol
@@kenrodriguez2128 - I don’t know but my guess is closer to 400 is probably correct. Could depend on so many things.
These LTE features sound an awful lot like Strava Beacon. How would you compare the two?
And maybe one day I'll learn another stroke. Maybe
They really are similar to that or the Garmin live events features just going over a different network. One difference is that someone following your race can send you a text message to your watch. So I could send you a message while your biking “Snipped and Clipped In!” And it would show on your watch. 👌
@@mlegrand 🤣🤣🤣
Thanks for the great video. I use the 945 LTE as well and can confirm, that it is a very good watch. I only have an issue with lap swimming, as I have to hit the wall in order to get the watch counting the lap. Did you see that behavior as well?
It’s not something I’ve noticed. I typically do a flip turn but I do sometimes see a bit of a delay in distance being displayed. I’ve also noticed that it’ll occasionally miss or mix up a lap depending on if I’m doing basic free style or drills. It’s not perfect but no watch tracks laps perfectly in my experience. Thank you for watching and taking the extra time to comment. I really appreciate it. 👍
Hi Matt, I have picked up a 945lte and can't seem to get livetrack to work without my phone. Do you have a video on trouble shooting or even set up to see if I have missed something?
I wish I did make a video like that. I've since returned my 945LTE device to Garmin but that was a great device.
I swear, the wait for the Fenix 7 VS just buying the 945 LTE right now, this minute, today...is infuriating. Things I think will make the Fenix wait worthwhile: battery life closer to Enduro, use of velcro/nylon strap to stop bouncing around, addition of LTE, hopefully lighter weight compared to 6 series, maybe USB C charging? Despite being quite anti-touch screen after owning and racing with a Spartan Ultra, I'm starting to think it might be quite nice as an optional on/off feature for map viewing and zoom/scroll. Ugh. First-world problems eh?
😂 - My gut feeling is that you’ll probably get 1-2 of your feature wish list and then something else unexpected. But honestly I have no idea. The 945 LTE is great but if you can wait, I’d wait. I don’t think they’ll drop anything else this year. They’ve already missed that holiday shopping window. But again, what do I know. 🤷🏻♂️
@@mlegrand yeah. I think the strap, LTE and probably better solar are the likely changes. I’d be very happy with those.
Matt, have you noticed in your research that there is any difference in mapping detail between 945 LTE and Fenix 6 Pro? ie. topography, trails showing up (or not), etc.
That’s a great question and I haven’t been able to compare the two. I don’t have the Fenix 6 Pro on hand any more. I would expect you may get better and more detailed maps with it. Visibility is probably a bit better with the larger screen as well. Thank you for watching and taking the extra time to post this question Scott. I really appreciate it. 👍
I'm thinking about buying this watch. I started having some elevation issues with my current 945 did a bunch of troubleshooting with Garmin and they're unable to resolve the issue. If you happen to have any good discount codes let me know! 😆
Yeah, I posted a discount code in the description. I’m guessing that elevation issue is due to the temperature gauge giving out? We should have Black Friday deals and eventually new watches if you can wait a while.
Hi, there's something about the LTE function that you briefly mentioned at minute 6: if you don't have your phone with you and have the Live Track on, you can receive messages but you cannot reply. If this is true it would make the LTE function pretty useless for me, I mainly bought this watch to be able to tell my wife things like "I got a flat tire" or "I'm running late"
Hi Plinio, Garmin is changing and updating these LTE functions as they continue to develop features. I'm sure they'll set up some sort of way to reply eventually. I was just surprised with how limited the LTE features were at the time of recording this video. Thank you for watching and taking the extra time to comment. I really appreciate it. 👍
@@mlegrand it's pretty weird because you can send messages (also pre-set) when your phone is around. Point is one invests the extra money for the LTE function to - ideally - never have the phone around while running/cycling
Does the LTE improve the GPS tracking? Nobody says in their reviews, that I've noticed.
As far as I know, they are 100% unrelated. If the LTE options are enabled it does take a toll on the battery life. ☠️ 🔋 Thank you for watching and taking the extra time to comment. I really appreciate it. 👍
Somehow the Garmin watches are so similar, the added features for the REALLY expensive ones are just gimmicks imo. The Edge bike computers though are real value monsters imo
I think even Matt noted this in one his videos, it almost seems that Garmin is holding back on some features on the cheaper watches. Eg; not keeping an open water swim mode on FR55.
@@adityagupta101 and imo it's cutting features not by hardware but by software. That's shady tbh
Yeah, it's interesting where they draw the line on some features. I'm not sure about Open Water swimming but the sleep tracking widget, which I really enjoy, seems like it could be on all of their watches. Seems like it just needs an accelerometer and heart rate monitor right? I have so many questions for a Garmin engineer. Thanks for the comment Christoph!
@@mlegrand or lactate threshold in running for example. I think it's just speed and heart rate afaik. Still not available on FR 245 for example
Hello is there a strength training widget like in the Fenix?
Hi Ze! The 945 has a Strength activity type. I'm not sure about a widget but the widgets and most of the watch ui is very similar between the 945 and the Fenix. The Fenix tends to have a bit nicer bezel. There was a killer deal on the Fenix about a week ago and the 945 was also about $100 off. It's a good time to be buying but it could also mean that Garmin is gearing up to release a new version of these devices. 🤷🏻♂️ Thank you for watching and taking the extra time to comment. I really appreciate it. 👍
Fr945lte has arioha chipset like fenix 7?
Hi Szymon, to be honest, I don't know the exact chip sets used in these devices.
945 and 945 LTE use sony GPS chipset per dcrainmaker but this review says they have different chipset, nowhere to get any info.
I see the 945 LTE cost for 485 (with tax). The Epix gen 2, sapphire black purchased for a total of 850 (with tax!). I have not turned on the epix and I'm afraid to! I'm on older athlete that needs reading glasses to see much of what smaller screens show (like the 945 I think) and I do some mountain backpacking in the summer, trail running, occasional trail events, crossfit. Is the Epix overkill? Shall I get the 945 LTE ? I am worried about my vision. I struggled with the coros apex which I returned. SO... what would you do if you were me?
If you can get a deal on the Epix, I'd try it. The price is probably my biggest complaint. If vision is your main concern it's going to be the clearest display of the group. Keep me posted and let me know what you think. 👍
@@mlegrand I sent my Epix 2 back after a few days as I found it more challenging to see the figures on the activity screens in the light then the FR745 I had at that stage. Just got the FR 945 LTE on these mega price drop sales. Its a great piece. Thanks for the video.
I sent my Epix 2 back after a few days as I found it more challenging to see the figures on the activity screens in the light then the FR745 I had at that stage. Just got the FR 945 LTE on these mega price drop sales. Its a great piece. Thanks for the video.
@@stephenrobinson4449 - thanks for the feedback Stephen. Keep me posted on what you think of the 945LTE. It should be getting some cool software updates. 👌
Are you wearing an Apple Watch on your right wrist Matt or am I dreaming ?!)))
That is a Fitbit Charge 5. Review coming . . . some day. I've been using it for about 5 weeks and just haven't had time to write up my thoughts. Also, Apple Watch series 7 is in the mail.
Matt LeGrand The Apple Watch 7, I know it's not worth the price and the hype but I like this watch!!! Apple knows how to deal with our emotions 😂😭