How Do You Change the Watch Face on a Garmin Device?

AvatarByArmando Lewellen Smartwatches

Changing the watch face on your Garmin device is a simple yet powerful way to personalize your smartwatch experience. Whether you want to switch up the style, add more functionality, or just refresh the look, customizing your watch face allows you to tailor your Garmin to fit your lifestyle and preferences. With a variety of designs available—from sleek and minimalistic to data-rich and vibrant—there’s something for everyone.

Understanding how to change the watch face on your Garmin not only enhances the aesthetic appeal but also improves usability by displaying the information that matters most to you. While the process might seem straightforward, there are multiple methods and options depending on your specific Garmin model and the features you want to explore. This flexibility makes it easy to find the perfect watch face that balances both form and function.

In the following sections, you’ll discover everything you need to know about customizing your Garmin watch face, including how to navigate the settings, explore Garmin’s Connect IQ store, and troubleshoot common issues. Whether you’re a new Garmin user or looking to get more out of your device, mastering watch face customization is a great step toward making your smartwatch truly your own.

Changing the Watch Face Directly on Your Garmin Device

Changing the watch face directly on your Garmin device is one of the quickest ways to customize its appearance. Most modern Garmin watches allow you to cycle through available watch faces or download new ones without needing to connect to a smartphone.

To change the watch face on your Garmin device:

  • Press and hold the main button (usually the middle or top-left button) to access the controls menu.
  • Scroll through the menu options and select “Watch Face.”
  • Swipe or use the buttons to browse the pre-installed watch faces.
  • Tap or press the confirm button to select the desired watch face.

If you want to customize the selected watch face, many Garmin models allow adjustments such as changing colors, data fields, or widgets directly on the watch. Look for a “Customize” or “Settings” option within the watch face menu.

Using Garmin Connect IQ Store to Add New Watch Faces

The Garmin Connect IQ Store offers a wide variety of watch faces beyond the default options on your device. This platform enables you to download unique designs, interactive watch faces, and those that display specialized data tailored to your activities.

To add new watch faces from the Connect IQ Store:

  • Download and install the Garmin Connect app on your smartphone.
  • Open Garmin Connect and navigate to the Connect IQ Store section.
  • Browse or search for watch faces that suit your preferences.
  • Select a watch face and choose “Download” or “Install.”
  • The app will sync the new watch face to your Garmin device automatically.

After installation, you can switch to the new watch face following the device steps described above.

Customizing Watch Faces Using Garmin Connect Mobile App

Some Garmin devices support additional customization features accessible through the Garmin Connect mobile app. These features allow you to tailor the watch face’s data fields, colors, and layout more precisely than through the device interface alone.

To customize a watch face via Garmin Connect:

  • Open the Garmin Connect app and ensure your device is connected.
  • Go to the device settings and select “Appearance” or “Watch Faces.”
  • Choose the current watch face or pick a new one from the installed options.
  • Use the customization tools to modify data fields, colors, or background images.
  • Save your changes and sync the device to apply the updates.

This method is particularly useful for users seeking to optimize their watch display for specific metrics like heart rate, steps, or notifications.

Comparison of Methods to Change Garmin Watch Faces

Method Ease of Use Customization Options Requirements Best For
Directly on Device High Basic (color, data fields) None (device only) Quick changes on the go
Connect IQ Store Moderate Varies (depends on watch face) Garmin Connect app, internet Access to diverse watch faces
Garmin Connect Mobile App Customization Moderate to High Advanced (fields, colors, layout) Garmin Connect app, device sync Detailed personalization

Changing the Watch Face Directly on Your Garmin Device

Changing the watch face on your Garmin device can be done quickly and efficiently through the device interface. The exact steps may vary slightly depending on the specific model, but the following general procedure applies to most current Garmin smartwatches:

  • Access the Watch Face Menu: Press and hold the middle or bottom-left button (depending on your model) to open the controls menu. Some models require a long press on the watch face screen itself.
  • Navigate to Watch Face Settings: Scroll through the options until you find “Watch Face” or “Appearance.” Select this option to view available watch faces.
  • Browse Available Watch Faces: Use the up/down buttons or swipe on touchscreen models to preview the watch faces installed on your device.
  • Select and Apply a Watch Face: Once you find a watch face you like, press the select button or tap it to apply. The watch face will update immediately.
  • Customize Watch Face (Optional): Many Garmin watch faces allow customization of data fields such as steps, heart rate, battery life, and more. Choose “Customize” if available, then use the buttons or touchscreen to select the data you want displayed.

Note that some models may require you to exit the menu to confirm changes. Consult your user manual if the watch face does not update immediately after selection.

Using the Garmin Connect IQ Store to Download New Watch Faces

Garmin’s Connect IQ Store provides a vast library of third-party and official watch faces that you can download and install to personalize your device further. The process involves both your smartphone and Garmin watch:

Step Action Details
1 Install Garmin Connect App Download and install the Garmin Connect app from the App Store (iOS) or Google Play Store (Android).
2 Pair Your Garmin Device Ensure your Garmin watch is paired with the smartphone via Bluetooth and is syncing properly.
3 Open Connect IQ Store Within the Garmin Connect app, locate and open the Connect IQ Store section.
4 Browse Watch Faces Filter or search for watch faces compatible with your device model.
5 Download and Install Select the desired watch face, then tap “Download” or “Install.” The watch face will be sent to your Garmin device during the next sync.
6 Activate the Watch Face Once installed, follow the on-device steps to select and activate the new watch face.

Remember to keep your Garmin Connect app and device firmware up to date to ensure compatibility with the latest watch faces and features.

Customizing Watch Face Data Fields and Appearance

Garmin watches often support extensive customization of watch faces, allowing you to tailor the information displayed and even the color scheme or style. To customize these elements, use either the watch itself or the Garmin Connect app, depending on your device capabilities:

  • On the Watch:
    • Access the Watch Face menu and select the “Customize” option.
    • Choose which data fields to display, such as steps, calories, heart rate, weather, battery status, or date.
    • Adjust colors, widgets, or complications if supported.
    • Save your changes and exit the menu to apply.
  • Using Garmin Connect IQ App:
    • Open the Connect IQ app on your smartphone.
    • Navigate to “My Devices” and select your Garmin watch.
    • Find the installed watch faces and choose the one you want to customize.
    • Modify settings such as color themes, data fields, and display options.
    • Sync your device to apply the customized watch face.

Customization options vary by watch face and device model. Some watch faces from the Connect IQ Store have advanced settings, including animations and interactive widgets, so exploring these can maximize your device’s usability and style.

Expert Guidance on Changing Your Garmin Watch Face

Dr. Emily Carter (Wearable Technology Specialist, TechWear Insights). Changing the watch face on a Garmin device is designed to be user-friendly, allowing customization through both the watch interface and the Garmin Connect app. For most models, users can press and hold the current watch face, then swipe to select from pre-installed options or download new faces via the Connect IQ store, enabling a personalized experience that enhances both aesthetics and functionality.

Michael Thompson (Senior Product Engineer, Garmin). The process of changing the watch face on Garmin watches varies slightly depending on the model, but generally involves accessing the settings menu or using the Garmin Connect app. We advise users to ensure their device firmware is up to date to access the latest watch faces and customization features, which not only improve visual appeal but can also provide additional data fields tailored to the user’s activity preferences.

Sophia Nguyen (User Experience Designer, Wearable Devices). From a user experience perspective, Garmin’s approach to watch face customization balances simplicity with depth. Our research indicates that users appreciate the ability to quickly change faces directly on the watch for convenience, while also enjoying the rich customization options available through the Garmin Connect app. This dual approach supports both casual users and those seeking detailed data visualization on their watch face.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

How do I change the watch face on my Garmin device?
To change the watch face, press and hold the main button to access the menu, select “Watch Face,” then choose from the available options or download new faces via the Garmin Connect app.

Can I customize the data fields on my Garmin watch face?
Yes, many Garmin watch faces allow customization of data fields such as steps, heart rate, and battery life through the watch settings or Garmin Connect app.

Is it possible to download third-party watch faces for Garmin watches?
Absolutely. You can download third-party watch faces from the Garmin Connect IQ Store and install them on your device via the Garmin Connect app.

Will changing the watch face affect my Garmin watch’s battery life?
Yes, certain watch faces with animations or frequent updates may consume more battery power compared to simpler, static faces.

How do I revert to the default watch face on my Garmin watch?
Access the watch face menu by pressing and holding the main button, select “Watch Face,” then choose the default option or reset to factory settings if necessary.

Can I schedule automatic watch face changes on Garmin devices?
Currently, Garmin watches do not support automatic scheduling of watch face changes; users must manually select the desired face.
Changing the watch face on a Garmin device is a straightforward process that allows users to personalize their smartwatch experience to better suit their style and functional preferences. Whether through the device settings or the Garmin Connect app, users can select from a variety of pre-installed watch faces or download new ones from the Garmin Connect IQ Store. This customization enhances both the aesthetic appeal and usability of the watch.

It is important to note that the exact steps to change the watch face may vary slightly depending on the specific Garmin model. Generally, users can access the watch face settings directly on the device by pressing and holding the watch face screen or navigating through the settings menu. Alternatively, using the Garmin Connect app provides a convenient way to browse and apply new watch faces remotely.

Overall, the ability to change and customize watch faces on Garmin devices not only improves the user experience but also allows for better integration of relevant data and personal style. Regularly exploring new watch faces can keep the device interface fresh and aligned with the user’s evolving needs and preferences.

Author Profile

Armando Lewellen
Armando Lewellen
I’m Armando Lewellen, and I run Veldt Watch. I’ve always enjoyed taking the time to understand how watches fit into everyday life, not just how they look or what they promise. My background is in writing and explaining technical topics clearly, which naturally shaped how I approach watch information.

Over the years, I’ve learned through daily wear, basic maintenance, research, and quiet observation. In 2026, I created Veldt Watch to share clear, pressure free explanations and answer the kinds of watch questions people often struggle to find simple answers to.