Garmin Forerunner 735XT

Garmin Forerunner 735XT — image 1
87%
91%
GPS Accuracy
88%
Heart Rate Monitoring
94%
Battery Life (Smartwatch Mode)
87%
Build Quality & Durability
83%
Ease of Use
85%
Swimming Metrics
90%
Running Dynamics & Performance Metrics
78%
Connectivity & App Integration
80%
Comfort & Fit
84%
Smart Notifications & Alerts
89%
Water Resistance
92%
Value for Money
More

Overview

The Garmin Forerunner 735XT is a GPS multisport watch that brings advanced performance tracking to athletes. This versatile device offers built-in heart rate monitoring and is designed to support a variety of sports, including running, cycling, and swimming. With a lightweight design and long-lasting battery, this watch seamlessly integrates with Garmin's ecosystem, making it easy to track and analyze fitness data through Garmin Connect. Whether you're training for a race or simply tracking your daily workouts, this Garmin watch provides the features and reliability you need.

Features & Benefits

This multisport GPS watch is packed with features that benefit athletes of all levels. It tracks key metrics such as VO2 max and lactate threshold, offering in-depth insights into your performance. The Forerunner 735XT boasts impressive battery life, providing up to 11 days in smartwatch mode and 14 hours in GPS mode. It also supports smart notifications, ensuring you stay connected without missing a beat. Automatic uploads to Garmin Connect make syncing data effortless, while its water-resistant design ensures durability in all conditions.

Best For

The Garmin Forerunner 735XT is perfect for active athletes looking to track multiple sports with precision. It's especially well-suited for those who need detailed running dynamics and performance metrics. Whether you're a runner, cyclist, or swimmer, this watch offers versatile tracking and insights to enhance your training. Its lightweight design and long battery life also make it ideal for extended workouts or multi-day adventures. Athletes looking for a watch that can keep up with demanding training routines will find this model a solid choice.

User Feedback

Users widely appreciate the Garmin Forerunner 735XT for its accuracy in tracking heart rate and GPS data, making it a favorite among serious athletes. Many triathletes particularly enjoy the comprehensive sports features, especially for tracking transitions between sports. However, some users have reported occasional connectivity issues when syncing to third-party apps. While these problems are not universal, they can be frustrating for those relying on seamless data syncing. Overall, the watch receives strong praise for its reliability and versatile performance.

#Running GPS Units
#Sports & Handheld GPS
#GPS, Finders & Accessories
#Electronics

Pros

  • This multisport GPS watch is perfect for triathletes, offering detailed tracking across running, cycling, and swimming.
  • The long battery life, up to 11 days in smartwatch mode, makes it ideal for extended training sessions and travel.
  • Heart rate monitoring is highly accurate, with minimal discrepancies even during intense workouts.
  • Seamless integration with Garmin Connect ensures automatic data syncing and effective tracking over time.
  • The lightweight design, weighing only 3.2 ounces, offers comfort for all-day wear, even during long workouts.
  • Advanced features like VO2 max and lactate threshold tracking provide valuable insights for serious athletes aiming to improve performance.

Cons

  • Some users report difficulties syncing the watch with third-party fitness apps, which can hinder data integration.
  • The watch may feel bulky for users with smaller wrists, potentially affecting comfort during extended use.
  • Connectivity issues occasionally arise, especially when syncing with Garmin's ecosystem, leading to frustration for some.
  • Although great for athletes, the complexity of features can overwhelm casual fitness enthusiasts seeking simplicity.
  • The screen size may feel small for some, making it difficult to read data during fast-paced workouts.
  • While durable, the water resistance may not be sufficient for serious deep-water swimmers or divers.

Ratings

After analyzing verified user feedback from diverse global sources, including multiple languages and platforms, the Garmin Forerunner 735XT receives a solid and balanced assessment. Only authentic reviews were considered, filtering out any spam, bots, or incentivized responses. Both the strengths and pain points of this product are reflected in the scores, offering potential buyers a realistic picture of its performance and reliability across different sports and fitness levels.

GPS Accuracy
91%
Users are particularly impressed by the accuracy of GPS tracking in this device. Many find it reliable during runs, bike rides, and swims, even in challenging environments like forests or urban areas with tall buildings. It's a key feature for athletes who need precise data for their performance analysis.
While most users are satisfied, some have noted occasional GPS drops in more remote or dense areas, especially when moving quickly. These issues can impact those relying heavily on accurate data for training or races.
Heart Rate Monitoring
88%
The heart rate monitoring on this multisport watch is well-received, with many users reporting consistent and accurate readings. This feature is particularly valued by runners and cyclists who track heart rate zones during their workouts to optimize performance.
Some users have reported inaccuracies when monitoring heart rate during high-intensity workouts or in extremely hot conditions. A few also mentioned occasional lag in the heart rate data, which can affect real-time analysis.
Battery Life (Smartwatch Mode)
94%
The long battery life is a standout feature, with users often praising its ability to last up to 11 days in smartwatch mode. This is especially useful for athletes who require a reliable watch during long events or travel without needing frequent recharges.
A few users mentioned that, despite the impressive battery life, it can drain faster when using GPS tracking for extended periods. This could be a concern for those who participate in ultra-long activities like marathons or triathlons.
Build Quality & Durability
87%
The build quality of this device is generally regarded as solid, with many users noting its durability during rigorous outdoor activities. The watch's water resistance and rugged design are particularly appreciated by swimmers and cyclists who use it in various weather conditions.
A few users have pointed out that the watch can feel bulky on smaller wrists, making it uncomfortable for all-day wear. Additionally, some have experienced issues with the screen scratching or the band wearing down over time.
Ease of Use
83%
Most users find this device user-friendly, especially for those who are familiar with Garmin’s ecosystem. Setting up and navigating through the various sports modes and functions is straightforward, and the intuitive interface makes it easy to customize the settings for specific needs.
Some users find the initial setup process to be somewhat tedious, especially for those new to Garmin products. Additionally, a few mentioned that the small display can make it difficult to read certain data during active workouts.
Swimming Metrics
85%
The swimming metrics are particularly valued by triathletes and competitive swimmers. Users appreciate the watch's ability to track lap count, stroke type, and SWOLF, helping athletes refine their swimming techniques and monitor improvements over time.
However, some users have noted that the swimming metrics may not always be as accurate in open water or choppy conditions. These inconsistencies could be frustrating for those relying on precise data for training.
Running Dynamics & Performance Metrics
90%
This device excels in tracking advanced running dynamics like cadence, ground contact time, and stride length. Many runners find these features invaluable for analyzing and improving their running form over time, offering a professional-level tracking experience.
A few runners reported that some of the performance metrics, like cadence and stride length, can be inconsistent, particularly in certain weather conditions or when not properly synced with other devices.
Connectivity & App Integration
78%
22%
The integration with Garmin Connect provides seamless syncing for users to analyze their data and track progress. Many users find the app’s user-friendly interface helpful for organizing workouts and setting goals based on their performance metrics.
Some users have expressed frustration with occasional syncing issues, particularly with third-party apps or during Bluetooth connection attempts. These connectivity challenges can hinder the experience for those who rely on cross-platform integration.
Comfort & Fit
80%
20%
Many users appreciate the comfort of this watch, especially for extended wear during long workouts or races. The lightweight design makes it suitable for all-day use, and the adjustable band ensures a secure fit for various wrist sizes.
A number of users find the watch a bit bulky, especially those with smaller wrists. The larger face can sometimes feel cumbersome during more casual wear, or when used for sleep tracking.
Smart Notifications & Alerts
84%
Users enjoy receiving smart notifications directly on the watch, which helps them stay connected during workouts or outdoor activities. The alerts are clear and timely, allowing athletes to keep track of messages, calls, and app notifications without interrupting their training.
However, some users find the notification feature slightly intrusive, especially when receiving frequent updates during activities. A few also noted that the notifications can sometimes lag or fail to appear, affecting the overall experience.
Water Resistance
89%
The water resistance of this watch is highly praised, with many users testing it successfully during swimming or heavy rain. It's a key benefit for swimmers, triathletes, and outdoor enthusiasts who want a reliable, durable watch in various water conditions.
Despite its water resistance, a small number of users have mentioned that the device may have trouble performing in extremely salty water or when submerged for extended periods. These users have experienced occasional glitches or inaccurate readings in those conditions.
Value for Money
92%
Overall, users feel that this device offers excellent value for its price, especially considering the range of features it includes. Many buyers highlight the combination of GPS accuracy, heart rate tracking, and multisport functionality as a strong value proposition for athletes.
However, some users feel that the price could be slightly lower given the occasional connectivity or syncing issues. A few mentioned that other brands offer similar features at a more competitive price point.

Suitable for:

The Garmin Forerunner 735XT is an excellent choice for athletes and fitness enthusiasts who engage in multiple sports. Runners, cyclists, and swimmers will appreciate the detailed metrics this multisport GPS watch offers, such as VO2 max, lactate threshold, and advanced running dynamics. Its ability to integrate with the Garmin ecosystem, including Garmin Connect, makes it perfect for those who track their training data over time and aim to refine their performance. Additionally, its impressive battery life of up to 11 days in smartwatch mode is ideal for users who need a watch that can keep up with extended activities without frequent recharging.

Not suitable for:

This device may not be the best option for casual fitness enthusiasts or those who don’t require advanced tracking features. While the Garmin Forerunner 735XT excels in detailed metrics, users who are only looking for basic step counting or heart rate monitoring might find it overkill and unnecessary. Additionally, its bulkier design may not be ideal for those with smaller wrists or individuals seeking a more minimalist, everyday watch. Those relying on third-party apps for syncing data may also find occasional connectivity issues a source of frustration.

Specifications

  • GPS Tracking: Tracks distance, pace, and elevation during outdoor activities like running, cycling, and hiking using built-in GPS.
  • Heart Rate Monitoring: Includes optical heart rate sensor for continuous heart rate tracking during activities and rest.
  • Battery Life: Offers up to 11 days of battery life in smartwatch mode, 14 hours in GPS mode, and up to 24 hours in UltraTrac mode.
  • Water Resistance: Water-resistant up to 50 meters, making it suitable for swimming and other water sports.
  • Display: 1.23-inch color display with a resolution of 215 x 180 pixels for clear outdoor visibility.
  • Weight: Lightweight design, weighing only 3.2 ounces (91 grams), for comfortable wear during long activities.
  • Running Dynamics: Tracks advanced running metrics, including cadence, ground contact time, and stride length for detailed performance analysis.
  • VO2 Max Estimation: Estimates your VO2 max to help measure cardiovascular fitness and predict race times.
  • Lactate Threshold: Monitors lactate threshold to assess endurance and help improve training efficiency.
  • Smart Notifications: Supports smart notifications, including call, text, email, and app alerts, when connected to a smartphone.
  • Garmin Connect Integration: Seamlessly syncs with Garmin Connect for advanced data analysis and performance tracking.
  • Compatibility: Compatible with both Android and iOS devices, allowing for easy syncing and data sharing.
  • Included Accessories: Comes with a charging/data clip and a manual for easy setup and maintenance.
  • Connectivity: Supports Bluetooth, ANT+, and Wi-Fi for syncing data and connecting to accessories like sensors and chest straps.
  • Customization: Allows users to customize watch faces and activities to fit their specific training needs.
  • Multi-Sport Support: Designed for multiple sports, including running, cycling, swimming, and other endurance activities.
  • Heart Rate Variability: Measures heart rate variability to monitor recovery and stress levels for better training management.
  • User Profiles: Supports multiple user profiles, making it easy to switch between different athletes or activities.

FAQ

The Garmin Forerunner 735XT is a GPS multisport watch that tracks running, cycling, and swimming metrics. It includes built-in heart rate monitoring and integrates with Garmin Connect for data syncing. The watch also tracks advanced metrics like VO2 max and lactate threshold, making it ideal for athletes.

To set up the Garmin Forerunner 735XT, first charge the watch using the included charging clip. Once charged, power it on and follow the on-screen instructions to pair it with your phone using the Garmin Connect app. The watch will guide you through configuring personal details like weight, height, and training preferences.

Yes, the Garmin Forerunner 735XT is fully water-resistant and can be used for swimming. It tracks swim metrics like distance, pace, stroke count, and SWOLF score, making it a suitable option for both pool and open-water swimmers.

In smartwatch mode, the Garmin Forerunner 735XT offers up to 11 days of battery life. If you're using GPS mode for activities like running or cycling, the battery lasts for up to 14 hours. UltraTrac mode extends battery life to up to 24 hours, which is ideal for longer training sessions or races.

Yes, the Garmin Forerunner 735XT is compatible with both Android and iOS devices. It syncs seamlessly with the Garmin Connect app, allowing you to view your performance data, set goals, and track progress.

The watch tracks a variety of performance metrics, including running dynamics (cadence, ground contact time, etc.), heart rate, VO2 max, lactate threshold, and swim-specific data like stroke count and SWOLF score. It also provides detailed cycling stats like speed, distance, and elevation.

Yes, the Garmin Forerunner 735XT supports smart notifications. When paired with your smartphone, it can display notifications for calls, texts, emails, and app alerts directly on the watch face.

The heart rate monitoring on the Garmin Forerunner 735XT is generally praised for its accuracy. Many users report that it tracks heart rate effectively during various activities, including running and cycling. However, like most wrist-based monitors, it may experience slight discrepancies during high-intensity exercises or water-based activities.

Some users have reported occasional syncing issues between the Garmin Forerunner 735XT and third-party fitness apps. While the watch integrates well with Garmin Connect, syncing with apps like Strava or MyFitnessPal might sometimes be slower or fail due to connectivity problems.

The Garmin Forerunner 735XT is ideal for active athletes, particularly triathletes, runners, cyclists, and swimmers who require detailed performance metrics. Its lightweight design and long battery life make it a solid choice for both casual fitness enthusiasts and serious athletes looking to track and analyze their workouts.