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Comprehensive Review of Garmin Forerunner Watches: Forerunner 165, 265, 265S, and 965

Comprehensive Review of Garmin Forerunner Watches: Forerunner 165, 265, 265S, and 965

Steve Amstad |

Garmin’s Forerunner series has long been a favourite among runners, triathletes, and fitness enthusiasts, offering cutting-edge features to track performance, health metrics, and outdoor activities. In this review, we’ll dive into the latest models: Forerunner 165, Forerunner 265, Forerunner 265S, and Forerunner 965. Let’s explore their features, performance, and how they differ.

Garmin Forerunner 165

Key Features:

  • Display: 1.2-inch AMOLED display
  • Battery Life: Up to 19 hours in GPS mode and up to 11 days in smartwatch mode
  • Health Metrics: Heart rate monitoring, VO2 Max, and Body Battery™ energy tracking
  • Sports Modes: Over 30 sports profiles, including running, cycling, swimming, and yoga
  • Smart Features: Smartphone notifications and Garmin Pay™

Pros:
Affordable price point
Reliable GPS accuracy
Compact and lightweight design

Cons:
Lacks some advanced features found in higher-end models

Garmin Forerunner 265

Key Features:

  • Display: 1.3-inch AMOLED touchscreen with vibrant colours
  • Battery Life: Up to 20 hours in GPS mode and up to 13 days in smartwatch mode
  • Health Metrics: Advanced sleep monitoring, HRV status, and SpO2 tracking
  • Sports Modes: Over 40 activities, with advanced running dynamics
  • Smart Features: Built-in music storage, Garmin Pay™, and smartphone notifications

Size Differences: Forerunner 265 vs. Forerunner 265S

Forerunner 265: Features a 46mm case size with a 1.3-inch display, ideal for those who prefer larger watches.
Forerunner 265S: Designed with a 42mm case size and a slightly smaller 1.1-inch AMOLED display, perfect for users with smaller wrists or those seeking a more compact fit. The smaller 265S also gives you more battery, with up to 15 days in smartwatch and up to 24 hours in GPS mode.

Pros:
Stunning AMOLED display with responsive touchscreen
Enhanced battery life compared to older models
Comprehensive fitness and health tracking features

Cons:
Higher price point than the Forerunner 165
Slightly bulkier than the 165 for those accustomed to compact designs

Garmin Forerunner 965

Key Features:

  • Display: 1.4-inch AMOLED touchscreen with Corning® Gorilla® Glass DX
  • Battery Life: Up to 31 hours in GPS mode and up to 23 days in smartwatch mode
  • Health Metrics: Training Readiness, HRV status, and advanced sleep monitoring
  • Sports Modes: Over 50 activity profiles, including triathlon and golf
  • Smart Features: Preloaded maps, music storage, Garmin Pay™, and smartphone notifications

Pros:
Premium design with a titanium bezel
Unmatched battery life for long-distance athletes
Advanced training features and real-time stamina tracking

Cons:
Expensive compared to the 165 and 265 models
Larger size might not suit everyone’s preferences

Conclusion: Which Forerunner Is Right for You?

Choosing the right Forerunner model depends on your specific needs and budget:

  • Forerunner 165: Best for budget-conscious users seeking reliable tracking and essential features.
  • Forerunner 265/265S: Ideal for those wanting a balance of advanced features and a modern AMOLED display. Opt for the 265S if you prefer a smaller size.
  • Forerunner 965: Perfect for serious athletes and outdoor enthusiasts who require top-tier training tools and extended battery life.

Each model in the Forerunner lineup delivers Garmin’s renowned accuracy and quality. Whether you’re just starting your fitness journey or training for your next triathlon, there’s a Forerunner watch tailored to your needs.