Forerunner 35

Fenix 8 47mm Sapphire. I've had a range of Garmins (Forerunner range: 35, 235, 935, 945, 955) but the 970 didn't appeal to me (accent colour on side and domed glass) so I got my first Fenix and first AMOLED watch (solar was thicker than my 955 which was already a bit thick under clothing). Love the look of the Fenix a lot more, plus better battery life

Seems like I am replacing my watch every 2-3 years. Battery is always the reason. Have gone with the base models of the garmin forerunner (35,45,55) then finally upgraded to the 200 series most recently.

I've really liked all of my Garmin watches! Check out anything from the Forerunner line, like the Forerunner 55. And highly recommend getting a refurbished/used one to save money, if that's an issue for you. You can get the 55, 45, or 35 for a pretty good deal refurbished/used.

I would look for a used or refurbished Garmin Forerunner 35 or 45 (whatever you can find for cheapest). Also just to note, GPS is what allows watches to accurately measure distance and pace, so you’ll want a watch either GPS. However for the ultimate cheapest option, if money is really limited, consider just using a running app on your phone instead.

You're welcome! And yeah I agree, using a phone is super cumbersome. Having a watch is so much more convenient! Even though they can be pricey, I think they're a good investment. And the longevity of Garmin Forerunner watches is quite good in my experience. And also they stay fairly valuable as long as they still work, so if you eventually decide to upgrade to different model, you can still sell your old one!

you've been lucky with the battery. The Forerunner 35 is now at an age where the battery capacity is diminishing and the battery isn't readily replaceable. Before buying a used Forerunner 35, be sure and look at a photo of the battery charge indication on the watch face - if you don't see all or almost all the segments lit, don't buy it. My Forerunner 35 now only shows one segment lit after charging

Forerunner 35. Still usually holds it's charge for an hour or so. I might be shopping soon.

You are me 8 years ago. I went from C25K to Strava on my phone, which got me through my first race. After completing it I bought a Forerunner 35, which I would wear only on runs or long walks. It did everything I needed it to, and I only upgraded it this summer when I decided I wanted a fulltime smart watch. I now have a vivoactive 6, which is much more attractive for daily wear. I think they've discontinued the 35, but the 55 would be equivalent.

I have a Forerunner 35 that I got for free from a friend who upgraded years ago. Still works great and still has a decent battery life (almost too great, I’ve been eyeing new models but can’t justify it when my watch still works). If you want something inexpensive just for running highly recommend an older model garmin. One note. If you want to monitor your HR the watch doesn’t have consistent or good performance. It will connect with a separate monitor.