This method varies slightly depending on the watch you own, but on devices like Garmin Forerunner, Fenix, Quatix, Venu, Descent, and Delta, here's how to change the Garmin watch face quickly and easily.
Garmin has some of the best fitness watches available today, and most of them have a host of unique features. The Garmin watch display doesn't just show you the time - it tracks your steps, monitors your heart rate, and alerts you to incoming calls and messages.
Unless you're wearing a very old Garmin watch, your device is likely to have built-in watch faces. Depending on your watch model, you may have a couple or more options. The watch face allows you to prioritize what is shown on the display. You can coordinate the dials with your outfit or use the analog watch for an official occasion.
Fortunately, preloaded watch faces aren't your only options. You can download many third-party watch faces from the official Garmin Connect IQ Store. In addition, as mentioned, you can also create custom watch faces. But let's get into the step by step process of how to change the watch face on your Garmin watch.
How to change the Garmin watch face
If you'd like to change the clock screen on your Garmin to another pre-installed option, it's a simple process. Here's how it works:
- Press and hold the "Up" button on your watch.
- Select the "Watch Face" option. Conveniently, it is the first option you will see.
- You will notice a scroll bar on the left side of the display. Use the "Up" and "Down" buttons to highlight the quadrant options.
- Tap on the watch screen to select the watch face.
- Tap "Apply" to see the newly selected clock face on the display.
How to customize a Garmin watch face
Is the watch face you selected not quite what you imagined? The solution is simple: you can customize it until the display shows only the items you want to see. Here's all you need to do:
- Press and hold the "Up" button on your watch and select "Watch Face".
- Select the watch face you want, then instead of "Apply", click "Customize".
- This prompt will open “Watch Face Editor”. With the “Up” and “Down” commands, start scrolling through the available options.
- You can change the layout, dial, data, background color, main color and other elements. After each choice, be sure to press "Select".
Note: In “Data”, “Accent color” and “Background color”, you will have to go through several other personalization fields. Make sure you hit "Select" after each choice.
Garmin allows you to add and remove items to tailor your watch to your preferences.
Additional FAQs
How do you add a new watch face to a Garmin?
Typically, you'll find five watch faces built into your Garmin watch. You can also find others hidden from view. It only takes a few simple steps:
- Press and hold the "Up" button on your Garmin watch and select the "Watch Face" option.
- Scroll down until you see the “Add New” option.
- Press “Select” and browse the available watch faces.
- Choose the face and then press "Apply".
How to make a watch face for my Garmin?
If you don't like any of the Garmin watch faces available on the Garmin Connect IQ Store, you can try making your own. The same is true if you've tried most of the options and it's time for something new.
However, to create a Garmin watch face, you need to have some basic programming knowledge. If you are up to the task, you need to download the “Watch Face Builder” available on the Garmin Connect IQ Store.
There is a lot you can do with this app. For example, you can configure the position of the dial, or change the size and color of each object on display, and much more.
The process can be rewarding for those who know how to design apps. However, it is essential to keep in mind that Connect IQ Store is adding more and more watch faces and you will probably always be able to find something you like.
What are the best watch faces available in the store?
It's hard to judge which watch faces really are the best, but there are several incredibly popular options available on the Connect IQ Store that you might be interested in trying.
SHN TxD is a Garmin watch face with a clean design and multiple setting options. The display is easy to read regardless of the conditions, plus it has an energy saving function.
Infocal is another excellent option that puts time as its main feature on display. It also gives you the ability to invert colors.
Jogging Master is an analog watch face created by Garmin and not a third party developer. The large number of steps is also emphasized, so it is suitable for hikers and runners.
Rails is a free watch face for Garmin watches with a discreet yet effective design. The default color scheme is black and yellow, but you can mix colors if you like.
The dial of the movement is also made by Garmin. Provides a sophisticated watch face pattern. The design is elegant and simple, plus you can access the rainbow effect for a little extra color.
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Choose the perfect Garmin watch face
Wearing a Garmin watch is not like wearing a traditional watch. With a Garmin watch, you can set fitness goals, track your progress, and even join a community for inspiration.
However, since you will be looking at your Garmin watch multiple times a day, seeing the same display may get boring after a while. That's why Garmin gives you a lot of options when it comes to changing faces on your Garmin watch.
Plus, moving functions around the display is super easy, and if you know how, you can create your own watch face and share it with others.
Do you often change the face of your Garmin watch? What is your favorite? Let us know in the comments section below.
Further Reading:
- 11 best animated watch faces for Samsung Galaxy Watch
- How to find, share and download new Apple Watch faces
- How to change or reset IMEI without root?
- How to count steps on iPhone and Apple Watch
- How to connect AirPods to Apple Watch
