The key differences with the Forerunner 245 compared to the older 235 are that the new Forerunner 245 has more smart-features like music (optional), a few more true sports features like running dynamics and physiology features from Firstbeat.
GARMIN 245 FULL
You will be able to link to any modern running sensor or smartphone and the Garmin Connect app is packed full of every feature you can think of, albeit a little complex to use at times. I love the market-leading compatibility with STRYD and you might love it for its ability to support 10s and 10s of sports profiles and for the emergency alerts and female health tracking. Garmin’s free running plans are suitable for runners up to a fairly good level and other features like PacePro are perfect for high-level runners looking for specific pace guidance. If I was busy and someone asked me for a running watch recommendation, without thinking I’d probably say “ Go for the Forerunner 245“…it’s a safe recommendation unless you have very specific needs. Imagine an Amazon Warehouse, somewhere, full of boxes…the Forerunner 245 would have a good attempt at ticking all of them for most levels of runner. It does everything in a smaller-sized shell that’s suitable for many wrists.
GARMIN 245 PLUS
The Forerunner 245/245M is a solid, new, high-tech running watch with almost all of Garmin’s running-specific features plus the key smart features like notifications, payments and music.