Garmin - Forerunner 965

Very small wrists here... I had a venu for years and I loved it. However, I wanted a better battery and more data for running. I went with the forerunner 965 and have no regrets. I was worried it would be too large. It's not. I say go for the forerunner in white. It's the most feminine.

Those are both great but I picked the 4 965

I got the Garmin Forerunner 965 a year ago. Hadn't worn a watch in years before that. Have barely taken it off since. Trained for and completed a full IronMan with it. Love it. Worth it. 10/10.

Bro you can get a "used" (often actually still new in box) 955 on marketplace for like $300. The only complaint I have about mine is the barometer/elevation data is jacked up, but that doesn't seems to randomly occur with different garmin devices and isn't isolated to this one. The 965 is basically the 955 with OLED, which isn't a real upgrade to me. The 970 is marginally more advanced. But don't spend $500 on it, that would be crazy for a watch 2 generations behind.

Forerunner 55 for the absolute basics. Forerunner 165 is the cheapest with a AMOLED screen. Forerunner 255, 265, 955 and 965 are just discontinued. In my opinion 955 is the most value for money as it includes mapping. 965 is the same watch as the 955, but with an AMOLED screen. If you don’t need mapping, then go for the 265. It is the same as the 965, but without maps. So if you can find a 955 that would be your best bet in my opinion. Forerunner 570 and 970 introduce unnecessary features, such as microphone & speaker, sapphire glass, shiny metal bezels all of which add nothing to running but do increase the price.

I have a 965 and I charge it for like an hour a week whether it needs it or not.

Venu 2 plus and I currently use a FR965

I wear my Forunner 965 24/7 when on a training program. When not, only at night to track my sleep. I then can rotate my “real” watches.

I thought my forerunner 965 looked really sleek and snazzy until I read this post and discovered that it was so clunky I looked like a spy kid...

Same; not a year ago, but about four months. I love it.

Moved from an Apple Watch SE to a Forerunner 965 and think it was 100% with it. Getting the Forerunner 265 or similar would be fantastic as well.

This is what i get from my 965. I do go back and edit most of the exercises, the watch does recognise a bench press or a row but I like to personally be more accurate with the exercise. The biggest problem for me is that garmin does not allow me to create my own strength exercise. https://preview.redd.it/q3vxs47uxyye1.png?width=768&format=png&auto=webp&s=b1aeb0c6e227e33199bdefed168847dbd2acdba2

Since you’re a runner using Runna and want better battery life, the sweet spot is probably the Forerunner 265 if you want something light, run-focused and comes with AMOLED brightness which your Galaxy probably has. If you want more of a “smartwatch vibe” with a mic for calls then maybe the Venu 2 Plus is the only Garmin that adds voice assistant and call handling but its training metrics aren’t quite as deep as the Forerunner 955/965 series ones If I were you I’d also consider the Forerunner 955 or 965 for serious running and battery though, it’s pretty much the best watch you can get as a runner IMO or you could try [9 Best Smartwatches Worth Investing in 2025 for Running and Hiking](https://alaskanarrows.com/best-smartwatches-in-2025-for-hiking-and-running/) for others as well Cheers

Forerunner 965 has been perfect for me and can easily download music via Spotify.

I just bought a forerunner 965 and I personally think it’s better than whoop, especially if you’re a runner

Forerunner 965, can do it all at a better price and you still get the better display, over cheaper older models of other lines. If you don't need the maps function, then I would recommend the Forerunner 265.

No, the 165 Music versus not is just price point budget options thing. Forerunner 265 and 965 have the music functionality of downloading directly to the watch from YT Music. If you just want good basic run and training tracking I would do the 165 music, if you want more training support and data collection and management, I would go for the 264. Either way a focus on running I would only select between these 2 watches.

I would probably say the 965 or, if you want a flashlight, the Fenix 8. * **Fenix 8 Solar vs. Fenix 8 AMOLED** * Solar charging is not going to make a difference in your battery life unless you spend a *huge* amount of time outside in very bright sunlight. * Most users here seem to be reporting excellent battery life with the AMOLED version of the Fenix 8. * I have the Fenix 8 Solar 51mm, supposedly the best Garmin has to offer in the Fenix 8 lineup for battery life. I usually get 10-14 days with heavy smartwatch usage and heavy endurance training usage. I charge the watch between 20 and 80% every 10-14 days. You'll easily be able to match that with an AMOLED version, with AOD, if you just throw it on the charger when you shower * **Flashlight** * If you can afford it, get it. The flashlight is amazing. * **Auto-tracking activities** * Every Garmin I've ever had will track these kinds of workouts fairly accurately through the MoveIQ functionality. * That said, I usually track everything manually, because why not? My Fenix 8 has a separate "Bike Commute" profile which I use for errands, commuting, etc. I am a triathlete, runner, bike commuter, etc. I swim, bike, run, walk, strength train, yoga, SUP, OWS, ski. The Forerunner 965 or the Fenix 8 will be an outstanding choice for you.

got a new forerunner 965 last month for around 380$, really happy with it.

Garmin’s “strength training” is garbage also. I just turn it on and do my whole workout as one set.

I have 965 and I love it. That said, I’d wait for Black Friday and see if they’ll more deeply discount it, or perhaps offer a discount on the 970. The 970 has sapphire glass, which I’d love to have given my profession is physical, but how much is it worth?

I have the FR965. You're generally out of bluetooth range during the game (cellphone is tucked inside bag). The RefSix app only needs to connect to sync the matches, which is a before/after function. * You can set the colors of the teams after opening the game on the watch - but not from the app. * If you want to make changes to the team names, you can only do that from the app on the phone. * If you want to scan the game cards, you need to do it from the app on the phone, and then re-sync the watch. Kind of a pain. After the game, you can sync the data back to the phone, which uploads it to R6, and then you can see all the data online and on the app.

For what you said, I'd probably do the 265. The 965 has much better mapping when you don't have a phone on you, but that's the main difference. The 965 also has more storage, it's really designed for people who want to run without a phone on them. I have a 965 and am training for my first marathon. I love it. Really depends on how much you value offline mapping features. If you have your phone on you the extra storage doesn't really matter. So the 265 is cheaper and has everything you need, unless you want those extra mapping option.

Really the only way to get better data is with a heartrate monitor. They both track the same data. The main selling point is the internal GPS on the 965. I got the 965 for the extra mapping features.

The only thing you would really be missing is running dynamics. Stats like running power, L/R balance, ground contact time. If you're a recreational runner, these stats are fairly useless. I only look at running power during races which helps me pace myself on inclines. The new 970 also has some additional stats that help show you if you're adding too much distance too quickly in your workouts. Other than that the two models are the same in terms of running. I have a 965 which has mapping capabilities, which I like for generating random routes each day.

If you want it only for running, then look at forerunner 255/265 or 955/965 (these with 5 in the middle have MIP screens, these with 6 have AMOLED). I’m recommending these since they’re smaller and lighter, but if you like the looks of fenix 7 go for it. In terms of HR recording you’re gonna need chest strap for running if you want to get accurate measurements. Measuring the heart rate from wrist is good until it come down to trainings with variable intensity, for example the watch alone is very bad at recording hr during intervals. In terms of GPS, fr 955/965 have the best one (multiband gps). The difference is visible when recording next to high building or in the forest. The type of screen is something where you need to see comparison between these two, I’m personally in love with MIP for its visibility when being outside and way better battery life. But everyone prefers something different so this decision is up to you. I personally have fenix 7s which i bought mainly for everyday use and hiking/biking. But I started to run with it and it’s perfect for me. Everyday training suggestions are very nice, especially if you wear the watch all the time. It’s taking many factors into account (for example sleep, stress, training load, your performance and many more) so every training is adjusted to you, no need to think what you should do.

I've got a Fenix 6s Pro and I'm looking for a replacement now. Top of the list at the moment Forerunners 970, 965 and 570. I got the Fenix for Triathlon and now it seems that the Forerunners have caught up. I don't really use the music or maps I always have my phone. Same goes for most of the sports. I just want running, cycling and swimming, DSW, sleep tacking and training readiness.

I just went from the 255 from the 965 for this same reason

https://www.reddit.com/r/Garmin/s/rBDvRpkJHH I wrote a comment on why I downgraded from the 965 to the 255.

I use Garmin and I’m pretty happy about it, the only thing is that it doesn’t track the tread miles accurately.

I would certainly go for something with solar, which I think the Forerunner 965 doesn't have, if you do hiking trips of several days and want to track all of it. The Fenix 8 has more "smartwatch" capabilities (e.g. built-in mic) vs. the Enduro 3, which is more of an "ultra outdoor performance" watch. In conclusion, for only gym + running, I would go for the cheaper Forerunner 965. Including the hiking, I would go for the Enduro 3 or the Fenix 8. If you want crazy battery life, you should probably opt for the Enduro 3, but if you want more of the smartwatch capabilities, you can choose the slightly more expensive Fenix 8. Both will surely do the job as they are both exceptional watches.

Get an older model if your concerned about budget. The new features are usually not that compelling. Only go 970 if you have to have a torch and 965 if you need maps. 265 is a great watch and sounds like it will do what you want along with the 100 series too. Great MIP options out there as well because...MIP is better!

Bought it

I started running after buying 965. Helped me a lot but for the one with the needs like us I’d have gone for 165 or 265

I have a 745 and my wife just picked up the 265s. It’s a great watch and plenty of features for 99% of endurance athletes. The 965 is cool, but not necessary unless you’re racing ultra marathons or multi day hiking expeditions where you’re using the mapping features.

I have to step in...I have a Morpheus. And a Garmin forerunner 965, and an Oura ring, and a Fitbit, and a Polar H10. Oh, and a Schoshe rhythm. Garmin scale. Hunger health scale. Lots of apps, custom chat gpt for health and fitness. I like Caliber for weightlifting, but I use the Garmin in parallel. I get my labs done pretty much quarterly. I do cardio and life weights, gym 5-7 days a week. 60 yo, retired. Went from 184 to 160 pounds in 6 months. Maintained or gained muscle mass, body fat 11%. If I could have only one device, it would be the Garmin watch. If you want to get fit and you're motivated, this will keep you going. Their app is so full of information and different kinds of motivation. My second device to keep us the Polar chest strap (not the Morpheus). First, the Morpheus app is kinda buggy when it comes to connecting and tracing exercise. The Morpheus process (morning meditation, as Peter described it) is slow to get sleep data (hours only) from Garmin. Garmin has a similar feature to grab a snapshot with heart rate and HRV. I do both every morning at the same time and they simply do not tell me anything different. Morpheus chest strap can't be machine washed, a huge negative, the sucker smells awful after a few runs. Polar is battery that lasts over a year, no proprietary charger to lose. And did you know that you can use anything with the Morpheus app once you've registered the app one time with the actual M7? So, yeah, I still use the app, but (a) I don't use the Morpheus M7 anymore and (b) I get zero additional insight from the Morpheus morning evaluation. I just do it to see if it tells me something different than Garmin and Oura. It doesn't. Morpheus says that their HRV algorithm is proprietary and better. When you use their software, it sends the data to their server for processing, so it's not local. It just makes it slow. It is not different from Garmin or Oura. I need a scale, so I'd keep the Garmin. It does body fat, muscle mass, etc and it syncs with Garmin software. But I do both every day. The Hume is 3x the price and not better. Neither is perfect, so I get an Inbody scan once a month at Orange Theory (pay $25). You can calibrate the Garmin to that data. I also got the famous Dexa scan. If you look into it, it's actually not the gold standard he says it is. From machine to machine and tech to tech, you get very different readings. The Inbody is less than 1/10 the cost and it's accurate enough and it let's you see trends by doing it often. I like Caliber for weightlifting. I won't go into it, you can check it out. But I track my workouts on my watch at the same time using the freestyle mode so that the Garmin has the workout data so it knows all of my activities. The Garmin works best when it sees everything... Sleep, all exercise, weight, etc. Yes, get a fitness watch. If you're not into tech, get a Fitbit. If you get serious, you'll want a Garmin.

I'm not a competitive swimmer but I use my garmin primarily for swimming. I used to have a FR965 and now a 970. But if you want to spend less a 570 should be more than enough for structured swim workouts etc

Get a chest strap for triathlons, one that works in water. The 965/Fenix/Epix are the same or minimal difference. The latest are the Fenix 8 nad forerunner 970. Get what looks good to you, because features are 99.9% the same. Also Fenix is a big bigger

Fenix/Epix are the same, Forerunner 9xx has 99% same functions but a bit lighter and not as tall, but only available in one size

Forerunner series is probably your best bet. The 970 is the top of the line there for most things you'd care about, though the past generation 965 is great too and can be picked up for a deal. I am knowing in this sub for touting the awesomeness of the flashlight feature on Garmin though, which is why I'd push you for the 970 if you're up for paying the premium. That said, you mention battery and the 965 has better battery life than the 970, so it's worth considering that point.

You’ll really love the 970, but you’d probably be happy with the 570 or I’d suggest looking at the 965 also. I loved my 965 but handed it down and got the 970 because as dumb as some people will think it is, I really wanted the flashlight and bonus strobe light for night runs. I miss the extra battery of my 965 but it’s not less enough that I care.

As someone who has been following reviews and sub-reddits pretty closely while making a decision on whether or not to go with the Venu X1 or Fenix 8, I thought I'd put some of my initial impressions out there, having purchased the X1 and currently "test driving" it. TL;DR - When making the decision, the question I keep asking myself is... ...what matters most to you...A beautiful "traditional" looking watch that always has the watch face "on" (Fenix 8)... ...or a big, easy to read display and comfortable fit. Are you ok with it not being always on, and charging it every 4-5 days while you shower and get ready (Venu X1). \- I've owned over a half-dozen smart watches ranging from the first Nike Fuelband, to Samsung, Fitbit, and Garmin. I'm not an "athlete", just a casual fitness enthusiast. My favorite was the [Fitbit Ionic](https://www.theverge.com/2017/10/2/16392612/fitbit-ionic-smartwatch-fitness-tracker-review) due to it's slim form factor and comfort. The problem with it is that it would die almost as soon as it was out of warranty (I bought two before giving up)...otherwise I might still be wearing it. This lead me to be very interested when the Venu X1 was announced, as it had a similar form factor. I'm currently coming from a Forerunner 965 . It's my first Garmin, and I love the fitness ecosystem over traditional smart watches like Samsung and Fitbit....though it does require more work to get it dialed in. I have primarily used it for weight lifting, biking, and I intend to ramp up my running. I have found that other than the Ionic, I can't wear a fitness watch on my left hand to sleep, but I like to get a sleep score so I switch it to my right wrist at night. Even on the right hand, I found myself waking up to loosen the band, but after a year and a half I've gotten used to it for the most part. I had been considering moving to the Fenix 8 because of the gorgeous bezel and improved HRM sensor over the Forerunner 965, but was hesitant because it was even bigger than the Forerunner... ...then the Venu X1 was announced. I was very interested, and started researching. Here are a few of the key points that I saw from places like DC Rainmaker, Chase the Summit, and these Reddit subs that I can now comment on. \- * **Display -** This the best feature on this watch. As reviewers have noted, the square form factor lends to more useable space, but it's also significantly brighter and more detailed than the Forerunner 965. If you are hoping to use your Garmin as more of a smart watch...for example; you want to read a lengthy text message, rather than just get the alert...the X1 let's you do this far better than a circular display. Maps are easier to read, and you can pack more data fields on to the watch face. * **Comfort -** This is the most comfortable watch I have ever worn, hands down. I even switched out the band for a stiff [canvas & buckle style](https://www.amazon.com/Torbollo-Release-Military-Breathable-Replacement/dp/B088T1MGZ4/ref=sr_1_2_sspa?crid=19BHATNNM2QHY&dib=eyJ2IjoiMSJ9.j2p19sxf-0lkl_mYW9QqoiaOGph9aBfKvxxMbQD_Pxiz8P3ohhlFeNkI2BcryNUk3XqqJhrC27MRZpt130sbbRIEMWhmat50zmceWfJf2HRm69Un3WBYC61LvwjEJQsewW8G1dwRcX7U06iFBv37r1YAVZ-TYgndTjmZpX-5N9q5FH-y9FJvwrcwpE-jyALkazELF7jWnAvfV3TM_nfzfgMHksV79HmfvBl7XWIylH0JiSAz71O1xDQkFJ4yJbQ2oxS-lcXaLmUlZ8QcpdvzomFG3cnks_T-2PA_Ll6BiSI.LJwCFvLuz0OmfOB0ySPPG9WI9c5ARWNcJGPjUlGHpa8&dib_tag=se&keywords=24mm%2Bwatch%2Bstraps%2Bcanvas&qid=1755716178&sprefix=24mm%2Bwatch%2Bstraps%2Bcanvas%2Caps%2C73&sr=8-2-spons&sp_csd=d2lkZ2V0TmFtZT1zcF9hdGY&th=1&psc=1), and it's still great. I think this is primarily due to the weight, but also the curve of the backplate. For reference, my wrist circumference is about 6.5 inches. * **Style & Build Quality -** I think this is going to be a personal preference decision. If you don't like a square face watch, this isn't going to change your opinion. As mentioned above, I don't have huge wrists, but I think the size of the watch is fine (I would wear a Fenix 8 47). Some have said they feel like the casing looks cheap, but I think in person it looks good...that said, it is a polymer, and not to the standard of an Apple Watch Ultra (which seems to be the direct cross-brand comparison). That said, I find it hard to justify the $800 MSRP cost. If Garmin is going to charge the same price as the AWU2, the build quality should match. * **Watch Face -** This isn't something that has been brought up much in reviews, but I think could be a strong deciding factor (at least it was for me). I personally want a data-rich watch face, and therefore I like the default X1 watch face. I do not like the look of a round watch face on a square watch, as I think there is wasted real estate on the display...even when they put data fields in the corners, like the "Situation Indicator" watch face that is pre-loaded...though that is my favorite of the circular watch faces. [Here's a link to someone who went through the pre-loaded faces.](https://youtu.be/dRTyraCRhZU?si=JS9F64PBsQ_jU5z-) Also of note, with my Forerunner I found that non-pre-loaded watch faces drain the battery faster than the pre-loaded ones. \- If you have any questions, I'm happy to answer in the comments.

I have not. The Forerunner 965 is my only other Garmin smart watch. The 965 did not have ECG, so I can't speak to feeling as though I'm losing that feature. Also, the UX changed significantly from the Forerunner to the Venu X1, but all of the features are still there. Just a different (but better) navigation process. I suspect it would be similar for all previous versions of Garmin watches to the current gen...so you probably would have the same experience going from a Venu 2 to 4. The price you stated is closer to what I would hope for, but I like the security of knowing REI will take it back "no questions asked" within 90 days of purchase. I will be hoping for a Black Friday price adjustment.

Haven't used the 35, but the GPS on my (965) & my friends (2something5) Garmins has been miles ahead of my previous Samsung smartwatch. Never had an issue with the GPS My philosophy is more "Buy Once, Cry Once", if you get cheap, it will break and you wont want to use it. You can always use your phone and skip the heartrate if you're in a pinch, GPS will be good, just need to figure out what works for you to carry it (eg cheap armband).

I know a lot of athletes. So, by extension, I know a lot of Garmin watch owners. Of all the 965 owners I reckon about 10% of them, max, use the watch to its full capacity. The other 90% use it in a way the 265 would satisfy without a shadow of doubt - and at a significantly smaller price point. Get a 265 (or a 265s) and watch, even then, the amount of things you barely make use of. Garmins are great (I wear one) but they flex a bucket load of features and IMO most people make use of two or three things for their sport of choice. This is why people get sucked in by the 900 series models.

I don't think anyone really takes notice of the Garmin recommendations on Training Readiness/Recovery time. Even the sleep tracking seems off to me. Some nights I feel like I had a good sleep and I'm seemingly well rested, yet the app tells me I've had a poor sleep. That all goes towards your training readiness. I have a Forerunner 965 because I value battery life over a full smartwatch experience. I'm happy just to get some notifications on the watch and have to charge it every 2 or 3 weeks. My wife loves her Apple Watch because it is constantly encouraging her and congratulating her on completing goals etc. In my experience, Garmin is not so encouraging. You are more than likely insulted with a Training Status of 'Detraining' or 'Unproductive'! Also, while you could use a Garmin watch for cycling, I much prefer a dedicated head unit.

First to mention the flashlight! 965 owners don’t know what they’re missing 

sad 27 days isn't true.. it varies between 10-14 days though - AOD off

I sadly do. I own a 965 and I'm so tempted to get the 970 mostly for the flashlight! Obviously it's not worth the switch, since my 965 is only a year old, so I'm trying to convince my wife to upgrade her vivoactive 3 to my 965 to justify buying a new one 😁

You might not like how ‘bulky’ a Garmin might feel compared to an Apple Watch if you’re going to have it on constantly (at the start anyway). I have a 965 which I would recommend. The Fenix is the flag ship ‘outdoor model’ but from what you described there is nothing the 965 can’t do. It is also sleeker than the Fenix. If you have a shop local which you can try them on for size I would do that first before making the plunge.

I would not pay $500 for a Forerunner 955 in 2025 when the 965 is $600. That's still its release date price from 2022...And I say that as someone who loves his 955.

I'll take the L on this one. I thought the 965 was getting updates the 955 wasn't but that's not the case. I also prefer the 955 screen. I still wouldn't pay $500 for the 955 in 2025 (or $600 for the 965). But the pricing on these products is also getting out of hand so here's to hoping my 955 has a nice long existence! 

I’ve had 3 Garmin watches they’ve been great currently using the forerunner 965

FR265 also has the latest multi-band GPS. The major differences with FR965 are maps, a longer battery life and few extra sport profiles and advanced metrics like stamina, but the FR265 has all the core advanced training tools like training status, pacepro, readiness) I think for a runner-only user, people are overselling the difference between FR265 and FR965 :)

Finally was able to use my Garmin FR965. I figured out my watch’s HRID using this method. However the first time I tried it, 6 months ago, the person that entered it simply just entered the number and it didn’t work. This time after I had made friends with the front desk, I asked that person to enter mine (I was looking at the screen this time) and after the number was entered, he clicked on something else and it discovered the HRID as an older model OTF device - so at that point I knew it worked. I was able to select an exercise and it broadcasted my heart rate. Been using my watch the past week.

I use a garmin Forerunner 965, and it does the job with no real complaints. Like most watches, it misses the odd length every now and again, but ultimately, it's pretty good. The only thing I think the apple watches might do better than the garmins is they automatically count kick set where on garmin watchs you have to manually input the data. I have also had a garmin swim2, which is fine but very basic.

As a 965 owner I can say my next watch will be one of these forerunner entry models I don’t dislike what my watch can all track but after the “wow this is nice phase” you don’t use it that much anymore if you just a hobby Athlet

Running Economy will need a chest strap (£160ish I think). Better battery during activities slightly, much large decrease in smartwatch mode. For me the main draw is the sapphire screen, but I've just got a replacement 965 for one which died and I've put on a £1 screen protector on it while I decide. Previously after 2 years I had 2 absolutely tiny scratches on the screen but only if you looked closely in the right light. I'm certainly not jumping to the 970 for now

agree. dancing with a fenix 8 will look & feel ridiculous. Slim wrist here, had the fenix 6 pro, epix 2, and fr965. Fenix & epix felt really chunky in comparison to the forerunner, especially running with them.

Garmin forerunner 965 is a great watch.. lightweight and very good battery life. The fenix series, in my opinion are far to big and bulky for a sports watch.. the 965 has the majority of the software the fenix 8 has (minus diving) at half the price. 965 Just doesn't have the flashlight and speaker/ mic. Fenix isn't a lte watch so the mic and speaker are a waste. multisport feature on 965 is also very easy to use during the triathalon.. just press one button at each transition. DC does a great review on the watch: https://www.dcrainmaker.com/2023/03/garmin-forerunner-965-depth-review.html

The big thing is the 965 has full maps, the 265 can just follow courses with spoken directions (turn left in 0.1 miles). The 965 has a few other cycling things that the 265 doesn't. Both have lifting animations if you build lift plans in connect with the right exercises that have animations. Most my running friends have 2xx except one has a 920 that she's had for 10 years.

The 970 *is* the better watch. But is it 200 EUR better to you? Only you can decide. I just got a 965 (upgraded from a 245) and couldn’t be happier. The 970 would have cost me 250 GBP extra and it just wasn’t worth it to me. [Here is a comparison of the two, to help you make an informed decision.](https://www.dcrainmaker.com/product-comparison-calculator) [Full review - 965](https://www.dcrainmaker.com/2023/03/garmin-forerunner-965-depth-review.html) [Full review - 970](https://www.dcrainmaker.com/2025/06/garmin-forerunner-970-in-depth-review-brillance.html)

In my country the retail price of the [965 (£499.99)](https://www.garmin.com/en-GB/p/886725/) is not much more than the [570 (£459.99)](https://www.garmin.com/en-GB/p/1463821/) But you can find the 965 for less than that. Just 2 weeks ago I bought a brand new 965 off eBay for £380

I have a Fenix ​​7Pro, 265, and AWU1. I also used a 965 before. Unless you have a specific use or design preference, most Garmin watches are similar.

Welcome to a thing called "decent battery life" 😂 I went from Galaxy Watch to FR965 a while back and am still chuffed when I see "27 days" on the remaining battery life.

I was having the same challenge when shopping for my wife's birthday. She got the 165 because it came in pink/purple. Nothing else really mattered to her. I would choose the 165 over the 265"S," becuase it has a better screen. Go try them on at the store and see which one you like best. I would say the one feature I miss on the 165 is the red shift at bedtime feature so its not super bright when I look at it when I'm in bed. My 965 has it and its the only thing I really would miss with the 165 over the 265. Otherwise, just pick the one you like best.

965 is the best watch garmin makes, its the same screen, internals, etc as the new Fenix 8. 265 is a slightly smaller screen that does just about everything that 965 does but lacks the on screen maps. 265s has an even smaller screen, and even the 165 has a better screen than the S model. All the garmin watches last well over a week between charges and the idea that you have to charge an apple/samsung watch daily is just idiotic. Get what makes you happy.

My buddy has had issues with his F8 not reading heart rate correctly unless he swaps to a velcro band that holds the watch tighter to his wrist. So I just don't think a fancy HR monitor is all that important. But that's my opinion. All I really care about is the screen, and the 454x454 1.4" OLED screen is by far the best part of the watch and then I'm just comparing pricing. I don't think the value proposition is there for the Fenix7, plus it doesn't have the updated sensor anyway. That MIP screen is just too out of date for anything over $200. 260x260 pixels in 2025 just doesn't cut it. Plus the Fenix8 Pro with micro-led will address the ultra low power segment at a premium. But power consumption just isn't an issue on the 965. I think I charge mine once a month for 30 minutes, maybe every 2 weeks in heavy activity use. By contrast the apple watches have to be charged every night so I understand the idea of long battery life but at some point its just not important. The FR965 is essentially the Fenix8 47mm with a bigger battery, cheaper rubber strap, and an older heart rate sensor. So its a great deal, especially with the discounts I've seen lately. I'm running the "Fenix8 Like" watch face on mine. I'm very happy with my FR965 and if you're shopping for one then definitely get the 22mm titanium quick-fit watch band off aliexpress for $17. Probably the best accessory I have for the watch.

Do you want the best watch Garmin makes for half the money? Then get the FR965. Its the same 1.4"454x454 OLED screen and brains as the Fenix8 47mm&51mm that's twice the price. Although the 265 will probably do everything you need, but with a slightly smaller screen with only 415x415 pixels and 1.3" like the Fenix8 43mm watch.

I second this. Sapphire glass, better HR monitor,... There are upgrades to the 970 but they are not worth it compared to 965. For running intervals you will anyways need a strap. Truth be told even the 955 can do the job just fine.

This is true, mostly, but the deciding factor for me upgrading from the 245 (I know this is not the same watch you mention but still more or less the same) to the 965 was maps. And maps are also the reason I chose AMOLED over MIP (which I do also like). OP, if you don't want maps this post is a very strong argument. Edit: just noticed this is 3d old, but that's the Reddit algorithm...

You will probably find the 965 reasonably cheap now the new models out. I have it and it's very very good.  you can even set up an out and back navigation route and then add your daily suggested workout onto it

It's still a very viable watch. Other than the AMOLED display, it isn't too far off from the 965. If you're happy with MIPS then you'll be happy with the 955.

Functionality-wise the Fenix and Forerunner are pretty similar, especially considering the new Forerunner 970. The Fenix has diving, but other than that, not much beyond the 970. The other big difference between Fenix and forerunner is styling as well as sapphire glass, for a small amount more weight. My gut is that sapphire is nice but not essential unless you're doing lots of mountaineering backpacking. I got an Epix, which was essential the Fenix 8 of a few versions ago, but at that time there wasn't a Forerunner 970/965. I'm glad I have the more rugged Epix with sapphire glass, but I doubt I would have had any issues. Given what little you've shared, I'd probably look at the Forerunner 965. it's the most budget friendly, and I don't imagine many need the microphone/speaker of the 970 (though the flashlight is cool) and that the Fenix is probably overkill. No wrong choice here though!

You could use a heart rate monitor on the wall connected to your watch, I am experiementing with that, but I don't think it has real benefits for bouldering/climbing, I just use it to track the data cause I do more respiratory based sports like running/cycling. I have a garmin forerunner 965 and looking into the garmin ecosystem is probably a good starting point - there are other brands, but I found no reason to look elsewhere unless you care much for really long battery life. Personally I think that it for any climbing activity is quite lackluster - climbing is much neurological/muscular fatigue and the measured data gives you no real indication of needed rest for that activity, and they'd need to rework it completely to be useful for that (I will however be happy to be proven otherwise if someone has input). I do think that tracking sleep, heart rate and heart rate variability could be helpful to assess training readiness and if you may be getting sick/overreaching in your training. A watch like is relatively inexpensive. forerunner 265 or something like that may be right for you

Battery life is the biggest. Not even close. We’re talking multiple weeks of battery life with consistent use vs a day or two. Also, my Apple Watch was near death after running a marathon with it on a full charge. The Garmin won’t have that issue. Garmin has more detailed health metrics as well. Switched from my Apple Watch SE to the Garmin Forerunner 965 recently. I miss the messaging integration and all that “smart watch” stuff, but there’s no doubt the Garmin is king of fitness. Particularly running and endurance sports.

Do you plan on running a marathon? Get the Garmin. There, I justified it for you!

I had an Apple Watch SE prior to my Forerunner 965. The Apple Watch was better at tracking treadmill runs more accurately and heart rate during lifting. For some reason the Garmin isn’t great at heart rate during weight lifting. Siri controlling Apple Music from the watch was nice too, I could just tell her to change songs. Replying to texts via the watch was nice, and the simplicity of Apple fitness was much better than the Garmin Connect App. Thats about all I miss from the Apple Watch. The metrics on the Garmin are superior, data collection, and battery life is unmatched. Love the sleep score and all that too. If you’re an athlete/fitness enthusiast, the Garmin is the clear choice. Especially if you’re into endurance sports. The physical buttons are worlds superior to a touch screen as well, and overall the Garmin is a much nicer fitness experience.

This is one of the things I appreciate about Garmin. They offer actual variety in their options. I actually went the other direction, though. I had a 965 that had a warranty issue, but when I returned it, I figured I'd just spend a little more and upgrade since everything was on sale at that time. Lol.

first, you won't run any faster or better with a new garmin, so what do you expect from a new watch? I would go with the fr 265 as sombody wrote the 255 is outdated. But I have to admit, every Garmin is outdated after release because of their policies, you won't get any funcional updates after release, only bug fixes. So the 265 was followed by the actual 570. BUT, the only FR with maps and navigation (which was essential for me) is the fr 970 [Garmin Running Watch Comparison | Which Watch](https://www.garmin.com/en-US/which-watch/running/compare/) even the 570 lacks maps and navigation. You could go with the FR 965 which is the previous model to the fr 970... if you don't need navigation check with the 265 (cheaper) or 570 (newer one, mor features)

No experience with the 570. But the 965 has the better screen and no other difference from the 955. Same hardware aside from screen.

I'm a busy middle aged guy who is an on again / off again runner and cycler that recently upgraded from a 245 to a 955. I'd say if you really like data, and health data tracking it's hard to go wrong with something like a 965. I also love the 2+ week battery life I get out of the 955, even with 4-5 gps events per week. I also don't care about the smart watch features and I turned all those off.

I own or have owned several of both lines. Both will satisfy any kind of activity tracking you could possibly want based on what you listed. I prefer to train and race with a Forerunner. It's lighter, and has a slimmer profile. You almost don't even notice you're wearing it. That said, it looks and feels like a toy. I prefer to wear a Fenix/Epix for most other situations. It's the more versatile watch because it can be "dressed up" easily and has a much more premium look over the Forerunners. That said, it's much more substantial and heavy. If I could only have one watch, I would personally go with the Fenix series primarily because of that versatility. You do pay for that "extra" though. I most recently did that with the Forerunner 965 and the Epix Pro 51. Loved both for the previously mentioned reason, but ultimately decided I didn't want to keep switching watches throughout the day. Sold the 965 to a friend, and kept the Epix Pro which I wear 24/7 outside of the very occasional charge.

I got the 965 recently. If I had the money for the 970 I would go for an Endurance 3. Much prettier, +battery, and sapphire lens.

I had the 955 and went to 965. I enjoy the 965 way more mostly because of the screen. Your concern is justified!

I have the forerunner 965 and I love it. The 970 just came out so you might find some great deals.

They are all "good enough" without a HR strap tbh. If you don't care *that* much about HR data... you'll get by with wrist as long as it's tight. It's usually pretty accurate for consistent based efforts. It's the intervals/gym sessions a wrist really struggles. Since you mention mapping... look into the Forerunner 965 or 955. Difference is the 965 has an AMOLED display, 955 is what we call MIP. MIP = longer battery life. Both are on sale, 955 is on sale tremendously if that's a route you wanted to go. If you can afford/find a deal on a Fenix 7 Pro that has the most up-to-date wrist-based optical HR sensor which is more accurate than the Forerunner 965 or 955 HRM. Lots of options there, but I've been recommending some friends to get the 955 lately, as I think I've seen $350 for the regular and $400 for solar model prices out there. I think that's an amazing bargain.

I love my Garmin Forerunner 965 - battery life is awesome, gives me all the stats I wanted, some I never knew I needed, plus a few I still don't understand ;-) Plus it connects to my mixed bag of sensors.

The only real difference is the display type. 955 is MIP and 965 is AMOLED.

Running, training? Then absolutely NOT the Venu 3 (my watch)-it is absolutely lacking Training metrics. Nice watch but not for the serious runner. Instead the FR265 (no maps) or FR965 has maps on board.

The screen of the 955 would be a major drawback coming from an Apple. I would go for the 265 instead. Note that the 965 is also on sale quite often. Got mine for 450 euro.

I run and play tennis as well. I love my 965. Software is great and the screen is gorgeous. The Garmin software is limited on the tennis side though. No things like tracking your forehand and backhand. But that’s okay for me.

I’m of a similar age. I bought the Forerunner 965 in order to get more active. Had a Fenix 6s before. And it has helped me out tremendously. If you have the disposable income, the 970 is a beauty. I use the map function more than I expected, especially on holidays exploring new routes. I recently bought my wife the 265 Music. Which is also a very good watch for your usecase. There’s also a discussion on here around MIP vs AMOLED screen. My two cents: AMOLED is perfectly visible outside and the screen itself is just gorgeous. Every time I look at it, it makes me happy. Which never happened with the MIP-screen on the Fenix 6s.

The HR sensor in the 965 is one generation older than the Fenix 8. I wish 965 had the v5 sensor though.

Ah no. Definitely not. But you may be able to get Fenix 7 pro for a price similar to 965 and the new sensor, plus all other stuff (or epix pro 2 if you want amoled). Don't get me wrong, I am going to upgrade my FR55 now and my goal is getting the 965. Just wanted to clarify this point to the OP

Do you have a power meter or smart trainer? 265 vs 965 to my eye is mostly about maps and auto detection of FTP. Auto detection of FTP is pretty cool if you have the other gadgetry to support it, and not so relevant otherwise. The 265 has really good cycling support other than that. My 165 is kind of disappointing but that's somewhat mitigated by also using an Edge.

Sounds like a good plan. I can't remember which Fenix was the first to be a dive watch but the only other is the much more expensive Descent. If you don't need the additional features from the Descent and the Fenix replaces a dive computer, it seems like you end up getting a really good value. It's worth comparing to some of the Forerunners if the dive aspect doesn't look that strong to you. I think the 255, 265 and 570 do everything you need for actual training functions. The 955, 965 and 970 add maps and the 970 adds a running tolerance function that might be helpful for marathon training. How much do you run now? Do you have a training plan picked out? While Garmin has all of Daily Suggested Workouts, adaptive training plans, and fully pre-set training plans, they all have their issues for a marathon. I actually quite like DSW but more for filling in the gaps and helping maintain balance. https://lifehacker.com/health/what-its-like-to-train-for-a-race-with-garmins-training-plans

I actually wear both an Ultra 1 and Forerunner 965 every day. Love Garmin for all the run features, love the physical buttons and interface, love the way it can help me do a workout. Keeping the Ultra for its smartwatch features and as a failsafe. I considered downgrading my Ultra to a regular AW, but then I’d give up the battery life of the Ultra and I didn’t want to so… here we are. I’m just owning that I’m ridiculous in having both. Sometimes I take off the Garmin during the day.

Agree with everything except battery life - the 965 has a 23-day battery life, versus 15 days for the 955. Just because the display should have better battery life, doesn't mean the *entire watch* actually does. [https://www.garmin.com/en-US/compare/?compareProduct=886725&compareProduct=777655](https://www.garmin.com/en-US/compare/?compareProduct=886725&compareProduct=777655)

For the main functionality, including maps, the Pace Pro does it all at a lower price. The 965 has a few extras, and handles music better, but none of that would be a deciding factor for me personally. Is there anything specific you're looking for in a watch?

They're about even on battery life. Garmin says the 965 gets up to 23 days (not counting activity tracking), and the most battery-intense activity settings give you 10 hours. Coros says the Pace Pro gets 20 days and 10 hours respectively. These estimates aren't precise enough to worry about the 3 days' difference on the daily use number, so I'd consider this a draw.

I'm gonna say FR965, it's currently a steal and has awesome battery life.

I 2nd the Garmin Forerunner 965 amazing watch 10/10.

AW4 + Forerunner 235 before AWU2 + Forerunner 965 now AW for daily use - better interface for messaging/music/etc - can be dressed up/down easily by swapping straps - AWU series too heavy for running Garmin for running/hiking/sleep tracking - much lighter weight and longer battery life - with professional running/coaching app - training plan automatically adjusts by making reference to sleep quality (I love this function) - no travel card/payment function in my country - too sporty and plasticky, not for workplace

Love my AWU2 as a smart watch, but not as a fitness watch, 965 is much better for my needs. I prefer the data Garmin collects and how it presents it. Love Garmin Coach. And battery is great even with AOD. 965 is also lighter and I find it more comfortable wear while sleeping than my AWU2. Things I miss are: 1. Cellular on long runs 2. Replying to messages on my watch 3. Apple key for my car on my watch. So I can drive my car with just my watch. Great as a backup or just going for runs/walks/hike with no phone or car keys. 4. Apple Pay When I switched from my 945 to my AWU2 as my primary device it always felt like the fitness aspects were very superficial. Or required a bunch of 3rd parties apps to try and mimic Garmin. That is why I bought a 965. Still use my Ultra 2 occasionally, but usually on my other wrist for the things I don’t get from the 965. I wear my 965 24/7.

No problem! Battery life was definitely a driving factor for me to switch to the 965 as my primary device. I got tired of babysitting charging my Ultra2 and could rarely use it for sleeping since the battery was always dead. With the 965, I can have everything turned on (AOD, POx, etc) and just charge if while I'm in the shower when needed. Or I can turn off AOD and it lasts a couple weeks for trips.

970 has like sapphire glass and a flashlight over the 965, if you don't need/want those then get the 965, or even a 265 depending how long your hikes/ultras are.

165 is a great watch for beginners, 570 is the middle tier and 965 is for advanced runners etc All depends on what matters to you, if you want the ability to take calls on your watch then 570 is the one to get as it comes with in built speaker and mic. If you want best battery life it would be the forerunner 955 as it’s MIP display and lasts longer than amoled displays

Sapphire, latest and greatest features, flashlight new sensor. I would go for 970 for sapphire and flashlight alone. But vs 570, I would choose 965.

Same here. Spent a lot of money on the Apple Watch Ultra 2. Nice smart watch, great you don’t need a phone to make calls etc but crap as a running watch. “Upgraded” to a 965 which works wonders. The maps are fantastic. Used it on a 13 mile run on Sunday having no idea where I was going and it just worked so well. Plus battery is weeks not a day and a bit like on the Apple

Definitely 955 over 265. Ideally 965. 

Excellent 👍  965 is great

I’ve used Garmin 645 and now Garmin 965 which are probably more expensive than you want. For what it’s worth, I found the cheaper/older Garmin to be more straight forward and often more accurate. The new one has all sorts of great features which I’ve not really learned, especially as I’m just a sort of “go swim” sort of person, not doing tons of drills etc.

Does it also track how far you hit? My forerunner 965 does. Also comes preloaded

Switched from apple to Garmin this year. I had an original apple watch all the way up through the 10. I bought a Forerunner 965 and wish I did it 10 years ago… It really puts in perspective how much apple does NOT have

I have the 965 and love it but if I was buying a watch now I would get the 970. I dont even know the extra features as I haven't looked, but the newer watch is always better.

The forerunner's will be fine. It comes down to preference, do you want LED or MIP screen? Do you need maps? Something like the 165 or the 255/265 will be more than fine. 955 if you want maps. 965 if you want maps+LED screen. Instinct 2 and 3 will work too, its just more rugged basically. All of them are solid, road and trail runner friendly.

Forerunners are great even if you don't run. None of the watches are great for the gym btw. For hiking you basically want an altimeter (which all new watches have) and maybe maps (which only the most premium watches do). I think the main advantage the Instinct has over the Forerunner is that it comes with Garmin Explore integration (for offline realtime mapping with the companion app on the phone). Only the Forerunner 9xx series support this. I think an Instinct 2 or 3 will be a great choice for your use

I’ve gradually worked up to having the 965 over several years. If you can afford it then I would get the 970. The maps are useful especially if you start running in new locations. Flashlight is an excellent feature and useful not just in running.

I got the 965 in 2024 and it's a great watch. I do think it's overpriced and the 265 has better value. I think you should get the least expensive watch you will be okay with. There is always going to be a newer and better model. I use it mainly to track my outdoor runs or treadmill runs. I tried the maps on the watch and it's nice to have but rarely used. I also didn't end up using the music option on the watch because I just use my bone conduction earphones with built in memory and music player.

"Its been 10+ years since the first AW launch. If i ask you to list various health and training insights provided by AW natively it wont even cover 20% given by Garmin."---Because that was never the intention of the AW. AW was not released as a Garmin watch competitor, it's more of a do-it-all watch. You can easily install 3rd party apps to get whatever metrics you want but Garmin can't do what AW does. I like Garmin's long battery and for me AWU is more than enough as well. "I would not trust any algo developed by them compared to a company like Garmin using a dedicated FirstBeat analytics "-----I was a Garmin user before and FirstBeat is nothing fancy. If you stay in this sub enough you'll see all the posts about the algorithm miscalculation. This post seem like biased praise for Garmin rather than reasonable analysis. I have number of time that my Fenix and FR965 froze during hiking and running, and I don't even bother making a post complaining their shitty CPU and hardware. Wear whatever you want and relax

970 has a new GNSS sensor. 965 is still multi-band and I haven't had any issues getting a signal lock, or losing signal in cities or heavy tree cover

100% agree with this. I initially bought a Forerunner 965 to replace my AWU 1 and it just felt cheap. The screen was unresponsive and the watch faces looked tacky, also the Garmin Connect app is really poor on the iPhone (crashes and also menu buttons go randomly missing). I then bought the Fenix 8 47mm AMOLED as that is the premium watch that they offer but again I had the same feelings when comparing it to the AWU 1. I actually really want to move to Garmin, and I don't care about the connectivity with AirPods etc as I have notifications and everything turned off on my watch, but every time I try a Garmin watch I'm left feeling disappointed. I also can't seem to find any analytic data that I care about that the AWU doesn't give me that Garmin does (for context I run, bike, do cardio/HIIT/strength at the gym and have ran a few Hyrox races). The battery is non issue as well as I just chuck it on charge when I shower or when doing some work for 30 minutes or so and I'm good to go. For someone who just runs, bikes, strength trains, HIIT trains, what does the Garmin offer that AWU does not?

Apple watch ultra 2 is your only real option for longer battery life and esim and the rest of the features you want. You do know that if you have a spotify premium sub you don't have to have an e-sim to listen to music, as you can download playlists and save them onto the device, unfortunately offline spotify is only available on wear os watches (not an option for iPHone as locked to android), apple watches and garmin. Garmin may be a good option as can do offline spotify playlists, and has built in route options or can pull them from strava, syncs data with strava way better than apple does; and the models that offer music all offer at least up to 10 days battery life, and they can offer way more than garmin does in terms of built in training metric and analytics and features. Note offline music + gps on watch is a heavy battery drain - so 1hr or gps activity + offline music and you are looking to recharge every 4-6 days (maybe longer) depending on the model, compared to multiple charge per day on AW (assuming you sleep with it) or daily charge on AWU2 If you want a mic and speaker look at venu 3, FR570, FR970, Venu x1 and Fenix 8 series. Otherwise you could go with vivoactive 5 or 6; FR265, FR965, FR955 and prior fenix 7 (and its variants like Epix 2 etc).

I would say Garmin is the top of fitness watches. Coros is also up and coming. They’re not as far along yet as Garmin but they claim they have a lot in the works. I use a Garmin forerunner 965 personally

I love my 965 but I am seriously considering the upgrade. After 2 months I can use a 20% off coupon code for the 970. If I can sell mine for 300-350 i'm gonna do it. The main upgrades I'm liking are the mic and speaker for the ability to respond to texts better right from the watch, the flashlight for evening runs, the brighter oled, and the sapphire display for a bit more sturdiness. I do think the ECG is a nice add too. I usually get around 10 days to 2 weeks on a charge right now between gym workouts and runs, so I'm hoping I'll still get around 10 days on a 970 with mixed use.

I have the FR965 and I love it. I use it for swimming, weights, kayaking, and running. I use a chest strap for everything but swimming. It has multi-sport options for triathlons etc. I often do workouts where I run to where my boat is, get in a kayak for a workout, and then run home. I would use the multi-sport feature for that.  I recommend a chest strap HRM no matter what you choose. I find the wrist based HR monitors are not reliable for anything above 120 bpm. I’ve used Apple Watch, Fitbit, Whoop, and three different Garmins and none of them worked for me above 120bpm so I think a chest strap is a must. Oddly enough, the wrist HRM doesn’t do that badly in the water.

Hi, I own forerunner 970(before that multiple forerunner devices 945, 955 solar, 965) fenixes(6 pro, 7 solar, 7 pro, 8) and edge 1050(before 530 and 830), also im reviewer for suunto in my country. Based on cycling, its ok... i mean it never will be dedicated bike computerm but its ok, U can pair multiple sensors. Power sensor works ok, but U can't set avg power counting with 0 or not like in garmin. About app, its really nice, even it shows peak power and speed for 30sec, 1min, 3min, and 5min. I had it before launch to this day and it is pretty stable(also i never experienced losing training session on garmin). About indoor cycling, smart trainers are not supported and I hope this will change soon because garmin in top in this matter. For running its also great Now there are some diffrences between app and watch with recovery metrics at this moment

As far as I know (also looking at the 965 vs 265), the main differences are that 965 has map functionality and just a few more sports modes that you probably won't use unless you specifically need them (e.g. I think it has a triathlon mode and a few other random sports). My main reason atm for swaying towards the 965 is that it has a golf mode (similar to their golf-specific watches) and other than running, that's basically my only other sport at the moment so would be ideal.

You feel that the Garmin watches are made for being a workout accessory. Its easy to operate during the workout (no need to use a touchscreen, buttons i the way to go here), all workout features you need are built into the OS, no need for additional apps, battery life is so much better, its suitable for a lot of endurance sports, even stuff like triathlon, etc.. I liked my Apple Watches, don’t get me wrong, and doing 5K, 10K, half marathons, it was all fine. But my Forerunner 965 can do every workout-related thing much better. So I don’t think about switching back for a second.

I owned the 965 and AWU2 — for me — the smartwatch limitations of the Garmin were too great. I use the AWU2 to unlock my door, my computer, Apple Pay, runs with AirPods and cellular— those little features add up to a lesser experience using a Garmin. I used both for a while (Garmin for workouts and Apple for the rest — sync’s with RunGap) and that was the ideal, but too cumbersome for long term use. Excited to see what the AWU3 brings us — here’s hoping for more battery life!! If I can go on a weekend trip without my watch charger it’d be a huge win.

If it's in your budget, do it. I've had it for a few months. I primarily run and hike, and lately I've been doing a bit of cycling and swimming. The FR965 is a beast. I love it and highly recommend it. No cons, really.

570 doesn’t have maps. Don’t remember about X1. The 965 would be a solid choice with maps for an amateur runner for a fraction of the price

100% 570 yes, you have more than enough features. But again, 965 is even cheaper and has maps

The Garmin watches are spectacular for cardio, and mediocre for strength training. It will do everything you'd want from a running perspective. I have the forerunner 965 and love it.

I have a 965 and it's amazing. The only thing the 970 has that seems like a big enough upgrade to consider the premium is the sapphire glass. And the ECG I guess, but that's unnecessary for most people. If I had atrial fibrillation then I'd definitely get the 970 instead.

No, gorilla glass sucks. I put a screen protector on my 965 from day 1. It doesn't bother me.

Then definitely get the 265. I have the same GPS in my 965 and it's phenomenal.

I use a Garmin forerunner 965 and love it. It syncs my runs to NRC. However you can NOT do guided runs with the watch alone, that is not supported. If you want guided runs on your watch, get an Apple watch. Personally I'd rather have the 10 day battery life with my Garmin. I don't do NRC guided runs anymore. Instead I use Garmin's coaching system.

I'm an intermediate runner and love my 965. I also use it to track my other activities, like weight training, commuter cycling, walking, and skiing. It's fantastic. The only drawback is the price, and that I can't use it for scuba diving.

IMO, if you aren’t all in on the 965, it’s overkill for you. You’re getting a flagship running watch and aren’t planning on using it fully. You might be better off going with a 265 or something which has 95% of the features and hardware at a lower price point. Unless you’re doing it because it will make you feel good or something, I wouldn’t recommend the 965 for this use case.

I went for the 955. Just arrived and loving it. I wanted maps navigation for running abroad and trail running (just getting into this). That was the big decision maker for me, so the 265 was a no go. The significant extra cost for the 965 wasn’t worth it for the AMOLED. The 955 is probably the best value watch you can get from Garmin right now.

I've just went through this same dilemma, moving up from a smart watch, through the Garmin Vivoactive wristband (which is surpringly good) but now i want my AMRAP set times and EMOM + heart rate on a bigger screen. I do crossfit 3 to 5 times a day, 1 day i hike and 1 day i run. I don't feel like breaking the bank for the Fenix 8 even though it's the most comprehensive and best looking of the bunch. But has features i don't need and i can spend half for want i need and it will be decent looking and great functioning. The Forerunner 965 is what i came to find is the all-round and good looking device. Has topografic maps and guided directions in mountain trails and GPS track follows. Has the big ass screen, perfect for customized crossfit readings. Looks decent, has Garmin pay. And more then half the price of the Fenix 8. So that's what i'm buying next week.

Ya I use both daily and I only really keep the Apple Watch on because I feel I should because I bought it lol. I don’t like the fragmentation of the apps and even the watch itself I never look at any single app. Glance the time but that’s it. Honestly don’t use glances on Apple Watch and the apps like I said it’s just muscle memory and more detail to view on the app. Whereas Garmin watch is designed so much better for glanceable information and stuff. Battery life charges fast but my FR965 I literally never need to think about it literally every 15-20 days. It’s so much nicer not thinking about checking before bed nightly if I need a top up to get through the night.

Did the exact same thing mate, swapped the AWU for a 965, Its brilliant not having to worry about charging the bloody thing every day

Garmin is not great for tracking any kind of lifting or strength training, it is really an afterthought for them. As for running I would recommend the Fr265 or FR965 if you want a bugger battery and maps. You can use the compare feature on the Garmin website to compare specs. Just choose all watches and the compare feature is right at the top.

One poster has recommended a Shitbit - avoid that at all costs. I am not a huge fan of Garmin even having used them for years, the software is outdated and buggy and the UI and UX is bad. You will get regular updates that will cause more issues that require more updates and the cycle will continue. The devices are good at tracking workouts and data. The Forerunner 965 is a good choice for you, sleek and does what you have asked. Has most of the features of the Fenix8 that people are suggesting but has been out for a while and the software is at least stable and for what you are getting it is priced better. The F8 is far overpriced for what you get.

The Lily is not a place to start they are an insult and described by Garmin as a fashion watch it doesn't even have built in GPS unless you buy the Lily 2 Active, the Vivoactive series lack altimeters. Coming from an Ultra and running at a few marathons a year the Fr255/265/955/965 would all suit you at a reasonable price. Garmin has outdated software and the UI and UX is terrible but they track activities well. Any of these watches will give you a great deal of data that is fun to look at but around 80% of it is not needed. You can use the compare tool on the Garmin website to compare the features of 5 watches at a time. That is a good place to start. Are you set on a Garmin or would you be interested in another brand? Sunnto and Coros have great watches at far better price points and with better feature to price ratios. As for you U2 you can control what notifications you get (FYI you don't have to get any) and you would get a great deal more battery if you just bought a chest strap for your runs.

The Fr965 is a much better choice. The X1 is a joke when it comes to Garmin - battery life is abysmal, it looks like a Childs toy and lacks multi band GPS - ridiculous for the price. The FR970 overpriced, the FR570 extremely overpriced.

Understand that even though Garmin has introduce a strength trainer, strength training has always been and always be an afterthought for Garmin, you will need a third party app to get any decent data. People have suggested the FR970 - overkill wth features that most will never use, understand or take action on, are they fun to look at - yes but they certainly are not needed unless you are a professional runner and even then you don't need half of them. The Fr255/265/955/965 would all suit your needs.

For a runner the answer is clear - whether it is Garmin, Suunto (the Race S is a far better value and equivalent to the FR965) or another brand that is your best choice. Whoop is not a fitness tracker, it gives you no training or progress data and it shackles you to your phone for anything other than heart rate data. It is a health and wellness device. Even if you do keep the Whoop you need a dedicated tracker for your running. Whoop essentially an overpriced sleep tracker - you are paying a membership to see your own data.

Do you have any details on what isn't accurate on the Garmins compared to other products? I had an apple watch for years but switched to a Forerunner 965 and have been very happy; didn't notice any accuracy differences. I can't even name 10 competitors in the smart watch market so I'm not sure if that's an exaggeration?

Forerunners are very light. I have a 965 that I've been very happy with. It would probably last 2 weeks if I let it go but I usually charge it around 50%. I came from an Apple Watch Ultra and I believe it is lighter than that plus I don't have to charge it every day.

It does not sound like you do running or other outdoor activities, so I d recommend a vivoactive 5 or 6 mate. However, something like a basic Forerunner could also give you all plus some running support for a share of the vivo price. I started my first one with a vivomove HR which only gave me steps and basic gym rep counting (that was 8 years ago) then vivoactive 3 and now a FR965 because I do hike a lot and started running recently plus all the gym.

It's already outdated (but still do more than 165). That why you can buy it at that price so don't expect anymore new update (same as 165,265,955, 965, Epic Pro etc) but the good thing is it's more stable/less bugs.

Those are basically the same (including 965,570,970). However, I hate 265/965 curved screen which can get scratched easily and only worked with plastic screen protectors.

965 \+ cheaper, almost half the price \+ Much better battery life 970 \+ New HR sensor with ECG/Skin temperature sensor \+ Flashlight \+ Sapphire Crystal Display \+ Mic/Speaker \+ New running features/data \+ Triathlon coach \+ Multisport Structured Workouts

Even at the same price, go for 955. The real problem with 265 (and 965) is the curved screen get scratched easily and because of its curve , only plastic screen protector can be used and because of plastic material, the screen protector also get scratched easily

Since you’re running 10–20 km almost every day, the FR570 or FR965 make the most sense. They’ve got the latest sensors, the most accurate GPS, and all the running metrics that actually help you keep pace, watch your cadence, and avoid injuries. The 570 is the straightforward runner’s watch, while the 965 gives you the same tools but with a sharper AMOLED screen and a bit more of a smartwatch vibe. The 265 is fine if you don’t need every advanced stat, and the 165 works for casual use, but for the long haul the 570 or 965 will serve you best:)

This depends on how you want to track your sessions. Some people prefer to start "strength training" when enter a gym and stop it at the end. I use my watch to follow my program like described here: [https://gelberhut.com/strength-training-with-a-garmin-in-a-gym/](https://gelberhut.com/strength-training-with-a-garmin-in-a-gym/) If you want to do the same - a watch which allows to adjust weight/rep number using the touch screen is handy. I know that venu3 and F8 support this, not sure about other models. PS: Not that long ago, Garmin released strength coach (https://gelberhut.com/garmin-strength-coach-what-is-it-and-what-can-it-do/), if you want it: check one of Garmin Venu 3, Garmin Fenix 8, Garmin Vivoactive 5, Forerunner 255, Forerunner 265, Forerunner 955, Forerunner 965.

Garmin forerunner 955/965 is still available and is incredible value for money - main difference between the two is the amoled screen: if you like it get the 965, if you’re not bothered about it then the 955 is cheaper and has better battery. Comparable features across the two.

Hey Folks! [Forerunner 570](https://preview.redd.it/26hy2p8l225f1.jpg?width=4284&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=78f1c1fa8da39122549b99d0fd756a44a4d401bd) [Battery Comparison](https://preview.redd.it/bxaut11x925f1.jpg?width=5712&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=4f68f6bdada6d9ab2c3186be58fb0bd1d9e2daa9) I'm Chuanyi, a programmer who loves diving into new tech and running marathons (PB 122 half / 254 full). I recently got my hands on the Forerunner 570 and, after putting it through its paces alongside my experience with the new Forerunner 970, I wanted to share my thoughts. There's been some confusion about where the 570 fits in Garmin's lineup – is it just a 275 that never was, an upgraded 265, or a "lite" version of the 965? **First Impressions & Design (Drawing from 570 script & 970 review comparisons):** At first glance, the 570 does resemble the 265 with its 22mm Quick Release bands and how the "Start" text and other markings are printed on the inner black bezel area, rather than etched onto a metal outer bezel like higher-end models. However, on closer inspection, it shares a lot of DNA with the 965/970 family. The overall silhouette, similar thickness and weight, and the addition of a refined aluminum alloy bezel really elevate its feel. It’s not just a simple rehash. **Key Highlights of the 570 (from 570 script, with parallels to 970 observations):** * **Super Bright Screen:** This was immediately noticeable. The AMOLED screen is significantly brighter than previous models, making it incredibly clear even in direct sunlight, similar to what I noted with the 970's best-ever screen. Compared to the 965, the 570's brightness is very impressive. * **Latest Elevate V5 Optical HR Sensor:** The 570 features Garmin's newest Elevate V5 HR module. My tests (comparing with a Polar H10 and the 965) showed that the V5 and V4 HR performances are very similar overall. The V5 (on the 570) seemed slightly more responsive than the V4 (on the 965) during sprints/accelerations. * **Important Note (ECG):** Unlike the "full-blooded" Elevate V5 in the Forerunner 970 which will support ECG, the 570's module lacks the surrounding conductive electrodes. So, despite the metal bezel, ECG functionality is not possible on the 570. * **Refined UI:** Garmin has paid more attention to UI details. When you switch to the widget glance view, the watch face background is still subtly visible with a frosted glass effect, giving it a premium feel – a touch I also appreciated on the 970. Font size adjustment is also more granular than on the 965. * **Triathlon Coach Function:** This is a welcome addition to the 2-series line, offering adaptive training plans based on your performance, recovery, and health status. * **Microphone & Speaker:** You can now issue voice commands, use your phone's voice assistant like Siri or Google Assistant, and, most practically, answer and make calls directly from the watch (though your phone needs to be in Bluetooth range!). This is similar to the 970's new mic/speaker capabilities. * **Garmin Share:** This is one of the most impressive new software features I’ve seen in a year! It allows wireless sharing of training courses, tracks, etc., with other Garmin users nearby – very secure and convenient. **Performance Testing (Focus on 570, with 970 data for context):** * **Heart Rate:** As mentioned, during a 10km tempo run, the 570 and 965 (both optical HR) showed some initial delay compared to a Polar H10 chest strap, which is a known limitation of optical HR. However, overall, both watches were very close to the Polar H10. * **GPS Accuracy (Multi-band GNSS & SatIQ):** The 570 supports multi-band and SatIQ. In my 10km test, the 965 recorded 10.08km and the 570 recorded 10.07km – an incredibly small difference, especially considering the inner/outer track variance from wearing watches on different wrists. Overlaying the tracks showed very high congruence. This mirrors the high accuracy I found with the 970, 965, and 570 during a 30km run, where differences were minimal and mostly occurred at water stops due to per-second refresh accumulating slight errors. * **Navigation & SURPRISING Battery Life in Navigation Mode**: * The 570 doesn't have built-in maps like the 965/970. However, **it CAN still do track navigation** if you import a route file. You can load and follow the route during your activity. Directional prompts might be less sensitive at sharp, small forks, so you need to pay attention. * Now, this is where my [Forerunner 970 review's](https://www.reddit.com/r/Garmin/comments/1l0pdtu/comment/mvzayvz/?context=3) battery test provides interesting context. During a 12-hour hike on Wugong Mountain, testing the 970, 965, and a 570 for extreme battery life, I had the **screen always on and a 22km track imported for navigation on all devices**. While the 970 didn't meet its official 21-hour claim under these tough conditions, the fact that the 570 (even without full maps) can handle such prolonged navigation with a track is impressive for its tier. The Forerunner 570 impressively concluded a demanding 12-hour extreme test with 26% battery still remaining. While I hadn't previously pushed the 570's battery to full depletion in that specific scenario during my Forerunner 965 review, it's worth noting that the 965's own two-year-old battery performed shockingly well under those same conditions. The 570's ability to handle extended navigation, even if just breadcrumb trails, is a significant plus. Furthermore, drawing parallels to the 965, whose flashlight feature proved invaluable during a dark descent on that hike (as highlighted in its review), the 570 would likely offer similar utility if equipped with an LED. **So, what IS the Forerunner 570?** * It’s **NOT** just a simple 265 upgrade. The addition of Triathlon Coach, the aluminum bezel, and voice functions are significant steps up. * It’s **NOT** just a 965 Lite either; it has unique software/hardware combinations and carves out its own niche. * **It's a competitive triathlon watch that can go head-to-head with the 965, with wins and losses on both sides**. The brighter screen, refined UI, flagship-level HR (minus ECG), and improved build quality make it compelling. **Regrets for the 570 (from 570 script):** 1. No built-in maps. 2. No ECG capability. **Who is the 570 for?** If you're a dedicated road runner, train for marathons, want high-accuracy data, and appreciate good aesthetics and daily user experience, the 570 is more than capable and very good to use. If you're a hardcore trail runner or have specific needs for offline maps, then the Forerunner 965 or the new 970 (with its full map capabilities ) would be better choices. The Forerunner 970, for example, has the added benefit of Step Speed Loss (SSL) when paired with the HRM-600 heart rate monitor, a new metric for running efficiency. This isn't a feature on the 570. The 970 is also positioned at a higher price point, especially if you want to unlock SSL. **Final Thoughts on 570:** The Forerunner 570 carves out a very interesting spot for itself. The ability to handle track navigation for extended periods, combined with its upgraded features, makes it a serious contender, even if it doesn't have the full map set or the absolute top-tier features of the 970. What are your thoughts on the new Forerunner 570? Where do you see it fitting in? This 570 discussion is based on my video [Forerunner 570 review(Chinese cc can be auto-translated)](https://youtu.be/zWcWY7FtnIk) and comparisons to my 970 findings [Forerunner 970 review](https://www.reddit.com/r/Garmin/comments/1l0pdtu/comment/mvzayvz/?context=3). I made an app GameraSnap，with which you can control your smartphone camera directly from your Garmin watch—perfect for workout selfies, group shots, or capturing your training achievements. Compatible with both iOS and Android, GameraSnap makes hands-free photography simple and fun. FYI：[https://garmintakephotos.com](https://garmintakephotos.com/)

It's not the same as buying a used garmin. Only if it is a 955. A 955 is software wise the same watch as the 965. The mip screen is allways on, is better readable in the sun. In less lighter circumstances the 955 has a backlight which will do the job for making the screen readable. If you like more colors and a brighter screen, pay the extra and buy a 965, instead of a 955: you will get less batterylife if allways on or have fun with turning on the watch by turning your wrist.

Forerunner 965. Love it. Highly recommend.

I have semi-recently made the switch from an Apple Watch Ultra 1 to a Garmin Forerunner 965, and my Garmin is leagues better than the Apple. If you don't want to spend 600, that's perfectly ok. [Everything on this list will likely suit your needs pretty well](https://www.garmin.com/en-US/c/sports-fitness/swimming-smartwatches/)

Optical HR sensor on the Forerunner is poo compared to a chest strap or arm based optical strap. From what I've read the PW optical sensor is up there

I've owned both. 965 is sleek and fantastic for metrics. Venu 3 is slim and low profile, but lacks metrics. Best to start big imo, the 965 should last you years with what it provides

And don't forget screen brightness. Fenix 8 still has a 1000 nits brightness screen, which, at least for me, is not enough. My friend has the T-Rex 3 and the brightness difference compared to my Forerunner 965 is huge. Even if T-Rex 3's screen burn out faster, I can still buy another 2 and still be cheaper than one Fenix.

I won't upgrade. Sapphire glass is useless, as it's not bulletproof and even that would better have a screen protector on. Its screen is brighter and this is important as 965's screen leaves some room for complaints, but it comes at the cost of higher battery consumption, so no either. Don't care about new sensor (I use chest strap), couldn't care less about the flashlight, mic and speaker, so no reason to upgrade even in the future, 970 won't be among my options.

Some of the Forerunners are not that far away from Apple. My 965 barely lasts 10 days and I think 970 is worse. I miss my Fenix 7 Solar.

The rhetorical question is whether it is worth paying almost 60% extra for a few changes. I had an FR965, in my opinion the changes are not worth paying that much extra. 

Garmin Forerunner 965. Maps, not crazy expensive, solid battery life and looks normal when you’re not backpacking. It was the perfect upgrade for me from a Fenix 5X Plus.

Yeah- it has the features, but not that magnificent AMOLED screen. the 970 is pricey, but a 965 or 265 would make an outstanding choice.

I am having the same choice. And I decided that 965 is what better for me because: 1. I don't need a flashlight. Cannot imagine when I would need it. 2. I don't need ECG - it is useless anyway. 3. I don't care about new pulse sensor because I think that v4 and v5 are equally good outside exercises and for exercises/running I use Polar H10 sensor anyway. 4. I absolutely don't care about microphone. I've had AW for 3+ years and never ever used it. So, paying 700 euro instead of 470 for features which I don't need makes no sense. And I like the look of 965 much more than 970. Yes, I miss sapphire glass, but that's all. With regards to software updates: with this kind of watches I don't expect anything super fancy with software updates. They will add some new useless exercise type? Who cares...

I'm pretty happy with the 965. I got it at a discount and did not want to pay 200-300 euros just for the flashlight + phone functions.

965 if you want / need maps, 265 if you don't. 265 still has breadcrumb style navigation. 265 vs 265s: The s is smaller, with slightly better battery life. [265 v 265S - picture : r/Garmin](https://www.reddit.com/r/Garmin/comments/12i2d1m/265_v_265s_picture/) [Help me pick a size - 265 vs 265s : r/GarminWatches](https://www.reddit.com/r/GarminWatches/comments/184wk3k/help_me_pick_a_size_265_vs_265s/)

I use forerunner965 and GPX Studio 👍🏻

Forerunner 965 is great, had it a few weeks and would recommend 👍🏻

965. I just upgraded to the 970 and I’m returning lol. HR Sensor is the same shit and the flashlight is only nice add-on. I can live without it.

965 owner, I run and occasionally road cycle. Total overkill for what I do but love the watch, I had other forerunners but the more premium built and look of the 965 won me over. Love it so far totally worth it

Go with the 965. There are a few standout features though on the 979 - Sapphire Glass - Brighter Screen - New elevate sensor (include better hr tracking, each, etc) - Mic and Speaker If those features are important to you than pay the extra amount.

Unless you can get the 955 for really really cheap... I would go with the Forerunner 965.

For Hikes, you would probably want maps. In that case I think the forerunner 965 would be perfect. If you don't need maps than the forerunner 55 or forerunner 165 would be perfect.

I had a Garmin Forerunner 965 and it was terrible for swimming. Not even one lap could be recognized correctly

I don't know. My watch tracked waaay more laps than I actually have done. If I swam 1000m, the watch tracks 1400m.

The Garmin website has a very good comparison function. https://www.garmin.com/nl-NL/compare/?compareProduct=1611937&compareProduct=886785 I would buy the 265, it has a bit more advanced metrics. The one I would value most is the training readiness and recovery time. It helpt to not overload yourself so there is less risk of getting injured. The 965 is even better, it has navigation and can create interesting routes for you if you frequently want to hike in New environments. Know that there are rumours a 'new 270' model is coming out. But you will pay probably full price for that one in the coming months.

Here's how I viewed them when I was comparing models a few weeks ago: Forerunner - Fitness Watch with Smartwatch capabilities. "I want to run and track everything." 965 for serious data and 265 for cheaper but still lots of data Venu 3s - Smartwatch Fitness Watch. The most "Smartwatch" of the Fitness watches. "I want a smartwatch that is fitness focused when I need it to be." Vivoactive 6 - A sort of cheaper (in price) compromise of the 2. More fitness than the Venu but also more smartwatch than the Forerunner and more affordable.

I use a Garmin Forerunner 965. The battery on my Garmin lasts up to 21 days without using music. Using Bluetooth, headphones, I can run about three eight hour days using GPS and while listening to music. In the last year that I have used my Garmin Watch, I have never had the battery die even if I don't charge every day. My Garmin watch does not have cellular connectivity, so no cell phone charges. With watches that use, I believe the cell phone connectivity, has a higher power draw. If I am going for a bike ride, I will have my cell phone in my bike bag so I don't need a cell plan for my watch. If I am running, cell phone calls can wait until I am done running when I get back to my car.

The battery in a Fitbit will not last for a Century. My Garmin Forerunner 965, the battery will last all weekend riding Saturday and Sunday and a few more days.

I enjoy my forerunner 965 (it was gifted to me) but it seems to track well for strength (I like that if I do a ‘freestyle’ strength it guesses the muscle groups and the I can adjust later). And the gps has been really solid even when doing trail runs in a rural area

I have a Garmin Forerunner 965 and love it.

I have owned Garmin over 10 years and a periodic couch potato. I train during 3 seasons and just lie flat during holidays- spring period. I know, an unhealthy style but it works for me. to help you understand better, a couch potato in terms of general fitness differs VASTLY with a couch potato in terms of running. It is easier to make a habit of getting into gym/hiking/wight-lifting from a couch potato stage but getting into running NEEDS a lot of motivation. Garmin Forerunner 965 : How a forerunner (9 series) can help you. 1. **Morning Report:** It has a morning report that send you every morning based on your sleep and other health report, how ready you are for running and suggests you workout (running) 2. **Steps:** THIS WILL BE A MAJOR thing to push you so I will dig a bit deep here - the watch starts encouraging you by steps and the algorithm adjust based on WEEKENDS and your daily steps. Meaning, weekends it gives you higher number of steps vs weekdays lower, if your lifestyle is busy on weekends. You don't have to set anything it will follow you meaning. I recently switched jobs and in the first 90 days being on-site role, I had to drive in 50 miles daily and choose weekends to lie flat and be a homebody. the watch adjusted the number so weekends I used to get low number of steps. Now that I have a hybrid schedule and I started working out on weekend, for the past couple of weekends it started increasing my numbers on weekend and adjusting to normal numbers on weekdays. 3. **Garmin Coach:** with your forerunner, comes Garmin coach a FREE feature in your Garmin Connect which will train you according to your potential. I have used it and I loved how it helped me to get back into routine last year. 4. **Music/Garmin Pay/LiveTracking:** it has enough features to leave the phone at home for that quick runs. 5. **Sleep and Cycle (if women) Tracking:** One of the best sleep trackers (at least for me) out there. I use Apple(my fashion watch) and Oura. Garmin beats them in everything! 6. **Other workouts:** it has MORE workout tracking than an Apple watch has. This is the watch that could track my Paddle Boarding, Indoor Bouldering (it also said what V-stage I was bouldering!) Golf, Snowboard, Kayak and many more! Meaning your EVERY ACTIVITY is tracked so you will not loose your days and FUN. You don't have to stick yourself to ONLY RUNNING or GYM. 7. **Other App integrations:** it connection to apps like Strava apple health and other will helps you to be in connect with communities to participate in many events. It also Has its OWN challenges (which I rarely use to be frank as I am more Strava challenge person) but for a beginner it helps a lot. Forerunner vs Fenix - I have been waiting to buy a Fenix for years but honestly, for my needs, Forerunner is enough. It has enough features for my lifestyle which keeps changes and has seasonal routines. If I ever plan on ultra marathons or triathlons then I will verge into Fenix or I have money to splurge. **Final Say:** If Forerunner can do this, Fenix can do a LOT more! But you need to decide if you need a Fenix. Fenix is **NEXT STEP / UPGRADE** to Forerunner. I would go with a a Fenix if I have a budget to splurge 😎 PS: I have just given you how it can help a couch potato but once you are on a full swing you can see MANY running metrics and calculations in Charts, Stats and Laps that can further motivate you to take running as a habit. Good Luck!

I’m torn between the Forerunner 265 and the 955. Both are semi-new and I can get them for the exact same price. I’m upgrading from a Vivoactive 5. The 265 really tempts me with the AMOLED screen, but the 955 packs more features and better training tools. I run almost every day, hit the gym regularly, and want to keep improving my overall fitness. If you were in my shoes, which would you go for? The nice AMOLED display or the extra functionality? Edit: I actually got a pretty amazing deal for a forerunner 965 for almost the same price 🤷🏻‍♂️

I ended up getting the 965 for basically the same price, pretty good deal 🤝

Yeah, I know but not having AMOLED really makes me doubt it and the 965 is out of my budget

Actually I got that one

From what you described and between the two that you listed, you are going to be fine with the 965 - I have it and I do not think there is anything in the 970 that I recall thinking was an important add on when it came out. However, again from what you describe the 255 is also going to be a very good option for you. You can do your own feature comparison feature but that was the alternative for me when I bought my 965. They both have the Amoled screen - the running features are very close with a few small differences that tipped me toward the 965 as well as golf on the 965 which was the clincher for me. However the 255 is an excellent watch at an even better price point if you can’t clearly identify the features of the 965 that are critical to you.

I have a 255, but I bought it after I knew I wanted to get more serious about running (I ran for a year without one). If we're talking best in terms of features, that's the 9xx series. If we're talking best value, the 265 is probably your best bet right now, maybe even a 965. If you're not too sure about this running business, the 165 is enough to get you started. PS: Be aware the 9xx series only comes in one size, whereas watches like the 265 and 570 come in two sizes. Perhaps this plays into your decision.

I have both watches but prefer the Epix more just because of the look. Both are great watches. I track all my workouts fine and have no problem sleeping with it every night.

I own both the Apple ultra 2 and the Garmin forerunner Runner 965. I definitely strongly prefer the Garmin for activity tracking. The activity tracking on the Apple just is too simple for me. Like the Garmin has things like your interval pace and automatic rest timer.  Maybe the Apple has it too, but by default it does not  I will sometimes also bring along the apple if I want a second screen with directions when I am going on a bike ride Or if I want to stream music off the Apple Watch on my swim headphones or stuff like that But Garmin is hands-down way better as an activity tracker, if nothing else just because the battery is 10 to 20 times better

Fr 965 . The features it has are worth it's price . This is coming from a pace pro user .

965... unless you need to speak to your watch.

Go 965! 970 only if you speak to your watch...

Ended up getting a 965 and couldn’t be happier with it. The maps have been so useful to have and I’m glad to have the touch screen to use them (vs the 955). Battery life is unbelievable compared to Apple Watch as well

There should be, but it isn’t. I have 255 and it’s great, capable, light watch, but it has weak display and no touch, changing straps is a hassle. So I waited long for 975, but I’ll go the Fenix way very, very soon :) Maps are definitely better on the 965 than on 255, navigation there is really rather basic.

There should be, but it isn’t. I have 255 and it’s great, capable, light watch, but it has weak display and no touch, changing straps is a hassle. So I waited long for 975, but I’ll go the Fenix way very, very soon :) Maps are definitely better on the 965 than on 255, navigation there is really rather basic.

Forerunner 255 (not sure about the podcasts there) as an entry point good enough for marathon training, Forerunner 970 as the best running watch available (all the bells and whistles except LTE you can imagine are there). All in between (265, 570, 965) is good option too :)

I’d go 570 way - it’s new, it will be long supported, it has support for all the new bells and whistles /if you decide to upgrade chest belt to HRM-600 or something like that/, it has marvelous display. But 965 is definitely a nice watch too :)

Can def recommend the 945 or 955 the 965 is the upgrade . My favourite function is can save music on watch so can play with just earphones in gym , even had waterproof earphones used to swim with .

Wife has the 265 and I have the 965. Battery life is good on the 235 and excellent for the 965. Maps as mentioned is the biggest difference.

I have a 965 mostly because I want navigation. Which isnt even crazy good. If you just want to run and can do without a (sub-par) map navigation, the 255 is excellent value.

Wait till they release 975 and stop adding features to 970. I got my 965 a year ago and new updates are not for me. That’s worse than apple…

Just switched from a Fenix 6x pro to a FR965. The weight difference is noticeable to me. The touch screen is nice but it retains the buttons I’m used to. Display is 1000 times better. It’s much smaller and feels like it may not take the beating my Fenix did for 6 years. I got it in white which is a nice change. Battery life is supposed to be better. About all I can say for now since I’m under 24 hours with it but I haven’t found anything I’m missing.

My husband has the 965 and I have the 265S (got the S because my wrists are small and the 265 looked huge - the 965 even more so). There is no significant difference between his watch and mine, apart from the maps that he doesn't use. Also, it's easier to change the strap on the 265 than it is on the 965.

I just ordered a 965 2 days ago for 460€. Cant wait to try it :) Even knowing that a 975 might be out in a few weeks... worth it :)

I love my FR 965 but I already have quite small wrists for a 1.8m tall guy and for me the 965 it's already bordering what still looks half good on my wrist. I wouldn't put the 965 on a wrist smaller than me. Also the 965 has a general more clunky and rugged look and feel. It's still pretty far away from the Epix and Fenix series of watches but it definitely looks more clunky than a Venu series watch.

I just recently switched from a Galaxy Watch 5 to a Forerunner 965. Samsung does a bit better with the smart functions but at sport tracking and general use of the watch Garmin is so much better. Plus only charging the watch once a week is really nice. And their range of watches is much bigger and really has to offer something for everyone in every price category.

The price is not justified, while subjective the 965 looks quite better with the design of the embedded gravings on titanium and nicer markers on bezel. The 970 main thing is the sapphire glass and design less prone to damage but only you could say if that is worth $200, but for most cases a screen protector could do a similar job in most cases for the 965.

GPS is still much higher on 965. Only looks like 970 has significant advantage with music, and tiny bit maybe with all systems multi band.

Holy hot damn. I have a 255 I love but for that price .... The 955 isn't much different than the 255. The 955 gives you topo maps. The only thing I wish I had. My problem.... the screen resolution of the 955 is 260x260. The 965 has a 454x454 screen. I might need to wait a few years to upgrade my 255 to the 965 when that watch is cheaper. I think the 955 is a damn good watch. Depending on what your current watch is it's well worth an upgrade. If you have no watch and it is in budget I'd 100% go for it! Here ya go: [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Garmin\_Forerunner#Feature\_comparison](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Garmin_Forerunner#Feature_comparison)

I bought the 965 (at 25% off) and sold my 265 to a friend. Apart from increased battery life, it was a waste of money. I never use the maps or the golf features. The 265 was super stealth on my wrist. I couldn’t tell whether I was wearing it or not. The 265 is a killer watch. I don’t regret having the 965, but in hindsight, it was completely unnecessary.

I just bought that same colour 42mm 570 for my daughter. I spent some time with her yesterday getting it dialled in. Damn, it’s so much nicer than my 965. The display is magnificent. The colour is amazing. If you don’t need maps or golf courses, it’s a killer option. Lots of shit being spewed on Reddit aimed directly at the 570. My bet is that the critics have not actually tried one.

I’ve had mine since late January. I find sleep tracking to be so inaccurate that I’m looking at the following alternatives: 1) WHOOP - If WHOOP is noticeably better I’ll keep the 965. If it’s not, I’ll return the WHOOP and consider: 2) VENU 4 -It has a few new sleep features but I question how much better the tracking will be. 3) Apple Watch Ultra 3 - IF I see reviews touting sleep tracking accuracy.

I went for a Fenix 7 to AWU2 to the 965. Personally I absolutely LOVED the AWU. As a smart watch there is no equal. I don't shower with my watch on and always put it on the charger. For me, I was so used to all tbe extra data available from Garmin Connect after every activity which I didn't get from Apple fitness or Apple Health. I missed the sleep tracking analysis and body battery. I missed going on a vacation without the need to take a charger with me. I tried to get the Garmin experience using other apps but I couldn't get everything in one place/app like I could with Garmin. I chose the 965 because of the screen. The AWU has a beautiful screen and I couldn't go back to a MIP display. I al going to purchase the 970 because I like pretty things and will sell my 965 to recoup some of the cost of the 970. Is it a waste of money to go from the 965 to the 970? Most probably but i just don't care. I work hard and something as simple as a new watch will make me happy for the next two years so why the hell not

If you don’t use maps often (I don’t) then even a 265 is very similar to my 965… maybe with a slightly smaller battery though

Agree - 965 for me too. It’s easier to read.

My eyesight is worsening with old age so the amoled makes a huge difference in legibility in 95% of environments. I went for 965 because of that vs 955

As a Garmin user, to be honest I'm really sad about direction that Garmin is taking. Prices went up, at least here in PL, Fenix 8 Pro Amoled costs 1.5x of Apple Watch Ultra 3, while to use Satellite connection you need to have 9eur/month subscription (when apple provides it for 2 years for free). Also LTE/5G in Garmin is just for Garmin Messenger app, which means you need to enforce your family to install it (and you wont sync stuff like Spotify using that). So yeah, I think more and more people will be thinking to switch, at least from by subjective, frustrated Garmin user point of view. Garmin used to be good company, you were paying more, you got years of support, now they plan different subscriptions, devices getting more expensive and my 2 year old 965 now doesnt have new software features (while usually you tend to have more years of that). Ah and Microled is a gimmick in garmin. They told that it will be more power efficient. Amoled version has up to 24 days on battery, Microled version up to 10 days, while costing whole 2k dollars

Pick which one you like the most, basically. Don't underrate the difference in size(including thickness)/weight. Especially if you plan to wear it all day/everyday. And especially, especially if you wear cuffed shirts regularly. I went from forerunner 965 to fenix 8 and not gonna lie, I have regrets. Just wanted something with a more premium look since I've always worn nice watches, and I'm wearing Garmin all the time now and my nice watches are collecting dust. Well it accomplishes that. But it's noticably chonkier, the UI is little less intuitive (maybe I haven't got used to it yet), and I'm not getting as good of readings coming out of the optical HRM, leading to a lot of the stuff being off like sleep, stress, HRV, body battery. I don't know if the latest HRM hardware is a regression for me or if the chonkiness of the watch on my (tiny) wrist leads to light pollution or what. The fenix isn't bad at all, these pretty minor nitpicks. But these watches are so similar that the only way to contrast them is through very minor things. The main thing saving the fenix for me over the 965 is the flashlight, I didn't even consider it when purchasing but it's massively useful, I use it every single day. But in your comparison it doesn't matter because now 970 has flashlight. Sapphire vs non-sapphire doesn't seem to matter on these very much. I don't know what they're actually made out of, but it doesn't feel anything like the sapphire on traditional high end watches. I haven't scratched it yet but seen a couple here that got beat up in a way that you'd never see on a rolex.

I'm an Apple guy with an iPhone, 2 iPads, and 2 Macs. But when it comes to a watch for swimming, I much prefer the Garmin. The Apple Watch is wonderful smartwatch but its native swimming app is pretty sparse. I had one but no longer use it. I had a Vivoactive 3 years ago. I'm not up on the VA5 but I really prefer the 5 button Garmin watches anyhow. I'm currently using a Forerunner 165 which gives you a lot of bang for the buck if you are mostly just swimming, running, or cycling. If you do lots of other activities, the the FR 265 or 965 is the better option. They all give you the choice of 5 button use or touchscreen.

I just recently switched from Apple Watch Ultra to Garmin Forerunner 965 (~3 weeks ago so still fresh). I believe the Ultra is an amazing smart watch that you could train with but damn does that battery suck. I wear my watches 24/7 so I’d be charging it every day while I showered just to get through the day. I find the two watches have similar analytics (Garmin through the Garmin Connect App and Ultra through different apps like Athlytic and AutoSleep) so it’s up to you if you want it all consolidated or spread through a few apps on your phone. The Garmin still does push all notifications to you through the watch you just can’t answer like you can on an Apple Watch. Long story short: I prefer my Garmin for it having everything out of the box and having a better battery life. The only thing I miss from the Ultra is not being able to answer calls/texts from a watch.

For what it’s worth, I have used both, now, and am keeping neither. I’ve already sold both of them actually and decided I’m going to keep my Instinct 2X Solar, which I love, and buy a second hand FR965 that has everything, more or less, that the F8 has (minus the torch) and use the two alternatively. Even on the I3 AMOLED 50mm I found the screen too small.

Although I’m an iPhone user, I’ve never used an Apple Watch. Okay that’s not technically true, I used one for 48 hours a couple of years ago just to see how it different from my Garmin. And for me it was everything I didn’t want; terrible battery life, constant notifications, smart features etc. Garmin has added a lot of things like that but there is still a very clear demarcation point between phone and watch. I love that on the Fenix and Forerunner 9xx series, I can still have global maps when I don’t have my phone and I can completely disconnect and go for a run or hike and know I won’t get lost. Not to mention have offline music using YouTube Music or Spotify. While I’ve not used it yet, the FR970 ticks all the boxes. Alongside my current Fenix 8, I also have the FR965 and I find myself using that far more than my Fenix, simply because it’s so much lighter on the wrist. The only things missing from that were the torch, which is an absolute must have, and the sapphire glass. Now that the 970 fixes those two things being missing, it’s the clear choice for me.,

The best on your list is the Forerunner 965 and if you want the best Forerunner of all, the Forerunner 970

I have had Apple Watches, did Coros, have done a few Garmin models and went back to Apple Watch when the first ultra came out. I currently have and have had for almost 2 year the Forerunner 965. What keeps me with Garmin is the mix of battery life and features. I can’t respond to texts or make calls on my watch, but can see the notifications. Garmin also allows me to run without my phone but still use a music service with offline music on Spotify, something that didn’t work with any services on Coros. My battery life, I hardly ever charge it except I take it off and charge it when I shower, and that keeps me topped off.

I have the Forerunner 965, reason I got it is for training and health tracking, it’s great. It does not have a few features of the Fenix, but not that many are missing. It also doesn’t have quite as premium of materials. I also personally appreciate the thinner profile and lower weight of the forerunner over the Fenix.

The 265 doesn't offer a proper map/navigation. Depending of OP needs, it can be a deal breaker. Has been for me. From having use a Samsung Tyzen OS watch, then a Suunto Android Wear one, and now the FR965, I'd add the 965 is not as integrated as an Android Wear device, but it still works fine with Android (I heard its far worse with iOS but never tried it myself).

I did, in june 2023, and never regreted. But if you already own a Pixel Watch, you can definitely, if you finally find out you miss the everyday features you like on it, use it when you're not doing sport and keep the Garmin for sport. I did trail running and hiking with both the Suunto 7 (Wear OS watch by Suunto, supposed to be better of both worlds, an Android smartwatch made by one of the better outdoor sportwatches manufacturers, but not exactly that because of limitations on Wear OS and short battery life) and the Forerunner 965, and it's day and night. The battery life is fantastic and it gives me enough smartwatch features for my use (I can receive and answer WhatsApp messages for example, but I can't initiate a conversation. I can use the watch as a remote when I cast a YouTube or Netflix on my TV. Use a calculator, weather app, converter, map. Some other things. But it's definitely not as integrated as a Wear OS device.). For me, waking up with 40% battery and knowing it'll be plenty enough for my 2 hours walk in the afternoon and it will still be enough to end up the day, track my sleep and work all the next day, it was a game changer. You basically never have to worry about the battery. 8 hours long hike in the Alps? It got you covered, no worries.

Been using a forerunner 965 for about a year and I wouldn’t run without it. Love it and you’d probably be able to find one used on eBay since the 970 just came out!

Been using a Forerunner 965 for a while, great running watch. 

965 owner here, but that % is just made up. You can’t even get American Express in Garmin Pay, rendering it useless for a lot of people. Can you use your Garmin to remote start your car or as a digital key in a pinch?

If you plan to run, go with forerunner. 265 is enough **BUT** 965 has maps and golf so I'd pick that instead. From memory they're almost the same size aswell

Honestly, the real flashlight is probably worth 200 by itself. I still have a 965, but I bought it at launch. If buying now, I'd get the 970.

You can get a second hand perfectly fine 965 for about 350 EUR. so not worth spending the gift cards on. The 970 is very small upgrade, but 500 is a good price.

I had an AW Series 8 and was considering the Ultra 3 but made the decision to make a leap of faith to Garmin for the first time and I got the Forerunner 965 and boy am I glad I made the switch. The Apple Watch is gorgeous, easy to use, the UI is super intuitive, and it integrates into the Apple ecosystem so well, it it’s just not as good as the Garmin at health tracking. My 965 has been off the charger for a week and it’s still at 60% battery with 1-2 GPS tracked activities of about 20 minutes each, every day.

The 965 is a very value for money buy now with the 970 just launched. But if you are a sucker for the best gadgets in town, then 970 of course. Though I must say if you never owned a garmin, the upgrades on the 970 over is 965 is likely to be glossed over

Same here, then I upgraded to a FR965. The difference on each level is unreal!

Big agree. Went from Garmin Forerunner to AW, then another AW, then back to Garmin. Apple REALLY treats you like a completely sedentary person. Furthermore, i LOATHE the rings. I found myself "chasing the ring" closures rather than doing exercise for good. That yoga and strength work didn't "count" as "exercise" to the watch made me so livid that my exercise habits actually changed for the worse just so I could "close my rings." It also coerced me into working out on days when I was very sick, with its DOZENS of "streak reminders" and digital insults (like seeing blank spots for when you missed a ring-close-streak) when you missed a day. Apple doesnt seem to understand that recovery is a very important metric. My Garmin actually \*encourages\* me to take more rest days if it sees my HRV isn't recovering as fast or I'm not sleeping as well as usual.

I posted this as a response, but I feel like its worth its own direct comment. I went from a long-time Garmin Forerunner (several versions) to AW, to another AW, then back to Garmin Forerunner 745 and now 965. I LOATHE AW rings. I found myself "chasing the ring" closures rather than doing exercise for fitness improvements. That yoga and strength work didn't "count" as "exercise" to the watch made me so livid that my exercise habits actually changed for the worse just so I could "close my rings." Yeah you can record it as an exercise, but if your HR doesnt go up to whatever level they think it should, then it doesn't close your exercise ring. It also coerced me into working out on days when I was very sick, with its DOZENS of "streak reminders" and digital insults (like seeing blank spots for when you missed a ring-close-streak) when you missed a day. Apple also doesnt seem to understand that recovery is a very important metric. My Garmin actually \*encourages\* me to take more rest days if it sees my HRV isn't recovering as fast or I'm not sleeping as well as usual. I get no "insulting digital scolding" if I don't move as much some days. So my summary? **Apple:** paternalistic parent who doesn't understand what actually fitness is beyond "you should be constantly moving", sets goals for you based on population-level metrics not personalized input that can backfire badly; made for sedentary people who need to move a little more; is basically the same as your phone, nagging you alllllllll the time on your wrist. **Garmin**: fitness coach in a watch who understands that variability and rest are the keys to improving fitness; just a fitness watch with superb biometrics and stats. doesnt nag you all the damn time and just tells you when you're getting a call or a text message but thats about it.

965 here but completely agree. They’re fantastic watches particularly if you’re into running.

Be aware that the Forerunner 165 does not have mapping capabilities. For that you need a higher model watch e.g. Forerunner 965 or one of the top epic/Fenix models.

If youre an average Runner you will not miss those Maps. Me and 3 buddies all bought the 965 while sale, no one of us ever Used the Maps for anything lol

Honestly the Forerunner models at the lower end have tremendous capability. I'm not sure what metrics you are looking for, but the 265 has stress monitoring, sleep tracking, training readiness, workout suggestions, and a ton of activity tracking. The 965 has pulse ox (not on the 265), so if that is important stick with the 965. The 965 also has better mapping features and golf course information (distance to green and hazards). The 265 is a little smaller and lighter, easier to wear all day. The 965 is better on battery life - almost double the 265. I'm not big on the extra stuff like music storage, messaging, etc. They both have those things if you want it. If you want to make sure you get everything Garmin has to offer, the 965 is tough to beat. The 265 (or even 165) will save you bucks and get a good deal of what Garmin has available.

- 255 music if you want bare bones utility at an unbeatable price - 955/965 if you care about mapping - My personal choice: 265 for the better screen if you can find one at a reasonable price (~$350) Oh, and DO NOT get the 570 under any circumstances. Heavy on its price, light on features compared to anything else.

I have only one gripe with your write up. You said ‘actionable insights’ In my humble opinion all of those insights you get are all hodge-podge and doesn’t translate to how I actually feel. This is coming from someone who dual wields (AWU + FR965). I actually bought the 965 because of these ‘actionable insights’ which I find aren’t actually actionable. Just my 2 cents. Have had Apple Watch since series 0 and the FR965 for 18 months.

Yeah though I wouldn’t go that far, people’s finances vary so much that it’s hard to give advice. Big difference between advice for someone who wouldn’t miss X dollars and someone for whom it’d be a real hardship. Regardless, I got a Coros Pace 3 and then after running for awhile (proving to myself I would stick with it) upgraded to a Forerunner 965.

The *55 series is only a year older than the *65 series and has the same generation HR sensor, GNSS chipset, etc. The software is almost the same between the two, including a lot of the recent updates like a meditation activity, passcode, and auto lactate threshold detection. Arguably the FR *55 is more up to date than the Fenix 7 series which is a sore point for Fenix owners. So 955 vs 965 isn't really that big of a difference besides the much higher resolution, much brighter and more colorful screen. Some of the other reason people are recommending older devices is because the difference between high end and mid range is bigger right now than the difference between generations, so for example battery life is better on a 955 vs a 570, or the number of running metrics is higher on a 955 vs a 570. The screen is better on a 570 vs a 955 though so technology advances have brought some good updates to mid range.

UI-wise I find 965 way better than the epix. I 've been using epix fore more than 9 months and my friends FR 265's UI is even better than mine.

Apple Watch for “normal wear” which means anytime I’m out of the house and not working out. Forerunner 965 for runs (Apple Watch for iTunes music on other wrist). Edge 1050 for biking. Really no one device meets my needs so it’s a combo scenario. If I couldn’t afford all of them I’d use an Apple Watch as it’s “good enough” for workouts and great as a standard watch/wearable. When you are invested in the Apple/garmin ecosystems equally it makes life more $$$.

I have a forerunner 965 that works great for that stuff. Battery life is waaaaayyyy better than any of my wife's Apple watches as well.

I got a 965 specifically because I wanted the golf tracking. If thats not you, you're probably fine with a 265.

FR965 (AMOLED) or 955 if you like MIP. Fenix 8 Pro should also release soon. I'd advice against the 970 unless you can get it for same price as 965. It's smaller with a smaller battery but has call/speaker and a flashlight.

Wait for black friday imo. I got a 965 on the birthday sale for 470 EUR. I mainly do gym and outdoor running. Reason for getting it over the 265 is that maps is nice if you're running in a new or unknown area, and slightly bigger battery.

No I used an Instinct Crossover until last week and switched to a 965, mostly for the color screen and because it has a comparable battery life. Actually its battery life is better. It has music and built in maps, but I have not quite figured out the music yet - my earbuds seem to have difficulty pairing and I carry the phone in my pocket anyway. Otherwise would enthusiastically recommend the 965.

965. Just got one. Don’t particularly need the maps but it has a bigger battery than the 265, and I’m coming from the Instinct Crossover so I’d like to maintain that battery performance, which the 965 does, and may actually exceed in the month I’ve owned it.

I don’t use AOD, so that stretched battery significantly. I’ve only had it a month and after the first full charge upon receiving it, have only charged it twice, including today. So you can say it averages about 17 days between charges, which is actually better than my Crossover, mostly because that display, whilst being monochrome, is AOD and powers clock arms, so it’s battery life is compromised as a result.

Cant see Venu 3 as something related to AW for smartwatch-like features. If it is for amoled screen yes, same as 965 (which I def recommend)

If you really only ever cycle you could get the 540/840/1040/1050 edge computers. If you do more sports or just want a watch get a watch like the forerunmer 955/965/970. Also get a chest strap in any case.

FR935/945/955/965 all have maps. No need for Fenix.

Playing with forerunner 965 (garmin). At officiated games, either put them in the bag or wering a thick wrist band. For pickup games play as is. Football tracking in them from box is terrible. Had to buy F3b app and track with it. If your gps/glonass/whatever navigation coverage is good, they can give you some insight how you run and approximate heatmap. But even tightly wearing them, they report a lot of misinformation about pulse, oxygen and etc. Want real insights? Use professional tracker designed for football-like sport. Also remember that it’s not tracking data as continuous stream, rather picking samples of data and coordinates positions, at set intervals, hence why tracking is very vague. Anyway fitness wise, what exactly you want to track?

I use the Garmin Forerunner 965

if you need oled no maps go 265. If you need no oled no maps 255. If you need maps and oled 965, if you need maps no oled 955. Must say I was also happy with my 245 using preloaded tracks to follow (you just do not have tha background image only a track. I switche to 955 because I needed more fields on my screen (fr245 had only 4) and I do trail running. I am happy with my 955 but I dont really am a fun of maps, I still use my phone for that. I could have been ok with the slicker and lighter 255. I still miss how the 245was disappearing on my wrist in terms of weight, bulkiness and band size. Consider to buy used to try it out or go to a local shop to play with it and see how it feels at your wrist. Also consider a nylon band (ultrafit by garmin or a similar amazon one) since it is more stretchy, secures better, breaths better then silicon. Trust me, you dont need touch screen on a sport watch. Garmin one is also bad in my experience. Also dont get fooled by fancy metrics you will never use.

I also have a 255. 970 is a great leap forward, especially maps wise. Maps on 255 are so basic and if you get into trail running with gpx files you will feel the need for the upgrade. It was the 965 for me which i bought on sale.

I use my forerunner 965 for training runs and swims and my edge 840 for training rides. I forgot my HR strap in a hotel a few weeks ago and have had to broadcast my HR to the 840 during rides. Not ideal, but it's ok. Just means I'll be getting a fancy new HR monitor soon, I guess. I enjoy combing through all the data afterwards, power, HR, pace, and etc. Maybe that's not important to you. During races, I use the triathlon mode on the watch as my "official" timer. I set the 840 to the bike course and discard the workout when I'm cleaning up my data the next day. Based on this info, I'd say go for the watch, it can do everything you need whereas the bike computer only does the one thing. I also use my fr965 as my daily watch and it shows texts and calls and notifications. Apple watches are normalized these days (I don't care for their square look, tbh), but the garmin lines look like watches now (I've been around long enough to remember when a forerunner looked like you were wearing a toaster on your wrist). But whatever choice helps the most to get you motivated to go train/race is the right one.

Same here in The Netherlands, was looking to get the 265 but then saw the 965 for the same amount (€420). Easy choice and very happy!

With that budget I’d get the forerunner 970 and call it a day. It’s probably the best all rounder at the moment for the price if you’re not SERIOUSLY trying to penny pinch. Otherwise the 965 is a decent buy these days. The flashlight on the 970 is unexpectedly nice, though!

I got a forerunner 965 which I quite like, if you don’t care for the OLED screen then get the 265 and if it’s in your price range the fenix line looks more serious and is more durable. Also has some extra features.

Pretty happy with my forerunner 955’s battery. I’ve got all the sensors and gps maxed out and it lasts over a week easy. Some things with Garmin are annoying such as blood oxygen levels not being synced to Apple health for no good reason at all(among some other metrics) They make strange software choices! Like not updating models from just a year ago. And I noticed, the Forerunner 965 had less music app compatibility than the older 955, that’s why I got it instead.

Obviously a Fenix 8 Micro LED. For real though, Fenix/Epix watches will give you full golf functionality minus a feature or two which are reserved for the golf specific watches. If you are budget conscious I would look for a Fenix 7/epix 2 series watch. If you have money to spend, a Fenix 8 will be great for everything you can imagine. Forerunner watches do have some golf features but they are dumbed down a bit to basic distance to green and score keeping.

Definitely the forerunner 265, or a 965 if you can afford it.of you’re coming from an Apple Watch the Venu 3 may also be of interest.

I have the fr965. Had the vivocative6 before thw upgrade and that was fine. I just wanted something with navigation on it as palm routes where I haven’t been before, so just gives me extra piece of mind as phone may not always have a signal. Battery life is fine. Will last over week doing 5 or 6 Activities a week (gym for over an hour, 10k runs etc). Even doing y3p with navigation running all the time it only used about 60% battery and that was nearly 12 hours. I do wear at hr strap when exercising so that will improve the accuracy of hr and calorie burn. Best thing to do is compare the watches for the features you want and then get the one you like best

Agreed if you want maps get the FR965. Not that maps are very usable on such a small screen, maybe in a pinch...

Depends if you'll be using the watch in areas you're not familiar with. If you do, I'd get the FR965.

I use the Forerunner 965. Has swing detection, tracks shots, keeps data. I also use DSW for running

All garmin’s work really well. I have the forerunner 965 and it works great. Garmin also sells a speed and cadence sensor that connect to your watch for 40 usd and also improves data capture. I ride exclusively w/o a head unit because I prefer no screens on my ride. I like to track calories, heart rate, elevation, and routes along with speed and cadence. The 965 has the best experience I’ve found so far, I’ve also used the vivoactive, venu 2, and forerunner 265. 965 offers incredible battery life (6 2-3 hour rides per week along with other activities for a weekly charge). You can also bring up and use maps on the watch. Syncing is a PITA and is useful in a pinch if you REALLY need it, but if you are looking for map integration I’d suggest a head unit instead of a watch.

I have a 965 and Apple Watch Ultra. In terms of swimming. Apple Watch is much better in terms of hr accuracy and split detection. But garmin has better ecosystem

I used to train with an Apple Watch but the constant charging and short battery life drove me crazy — I had it die on me more than once during long runs and brick sessions, which is super frustrating. Switched over to the Garmin Forerunner 965 and it’s night and day. Battery lasts over a week even with GPS workouts, the tracking is way more detailed, and it feels built for hybrid athletes instead of just being a smartwatch with fitness features tacked on. If you’re planning longer sessions or races, Garmin is the safer bet. Apple has better UI/UX thought, I will say. I also have a Whoop which is great, but it's not helpful for tracking since there's no screen

Not "extra maps". The FR265 doesn't have ANY maps, only breadcrumb trails and the like. If you want to download Outdoor+ Maps or see your real-time location on a TopoActive map, you need the FR965, not the FR265. HUGE difference in navigation and mapping capabilities between these two watches.

Yes, I was just clarifying for anyone else that might be considering the 265 vs 965. I upgraded from the 265 to the 965 specifically because of the on-watch Outdoor+ Maps. I made the mistake of thinking it was just a "nice to have" feature, but being able to take a quick glance at my wrist while hiking out in the woods is extremely helpful. I can see topographic details, parcel lines, hydro features, trail POIs, etc. at a glance without breaking stride or having to hold a phone in my hand. For people that don't do any hiking it might not be worth the added cost, though.

Garmin. No question. I’ve gotten more actionable training guidance from my Garmin Forerunner 965 in two weeks than 5 years of Apple Watch. Apple Watch offers zero training guidance. Apple Watch no longer supports spo2. There is no contest; Garmin watches are training tools; Apple Watches are a no-style status symbol.

965 is a no brainer here.

I have the Forerunner 965, it might be a bit overkill for me needs - but i love and still enjoy it everyday.

As a 15 month user of a FR965, they are worth every penny. From tracking activity distances/times/elevation to monitoring workout readiness to measuring HRR and VO2max to measuring resting heart rate and HRV to monitoring sleep quality. Literally life changing. I have friends that try/tried to use an Apple watch for activity use. They aren't great, especially on the heart rate. Garmin is much better. Most of these friends have since UPGRADED to a Garmin. Garmin builds exercise watches. Apple builds smart watches. Big difference.

I love mine. I use it for hiking, cycling and all round training. I should have bought one years ago.

I went from the Apple Watch SE to the Forerunner 965 about two years ago. Looking back, I can’t believe I even used the SE. There hasn’t been a single day in these two years where I’ve thought “man, wish I still had an Apple Watch instead”

can't say for garmin but general rule is like that * garmin have more features. you can route maps on watch which means you can set a point where you wanna go without use of phone while on suunto you need to do that via your phone which can be annoying in areas where singal is questionable. also suunto have no names on watch itself on map but yea, their maps re more snappier, faster, etc. * garmin have way more data. now some were locked behind subrsicption, i'm not sure which data excat. suunto have less data but imo better organized * application on phone matters for me alot and there suunto is just better. they have one app for everything which imo is more user friendly. garmin have more apps for each purpouse one and steeper learning curve (my father have garmin edge 1040 bike computer and yea) but thats just from user to user, at the end it matters how you fell. * smart functions there is no question that garmin is better. suunto is really behind. you will get basic notifications with opiton to control music on your phone and call my phone function and function to turn down phone call with a SMS and thats pretty much it. garmin here have huge edge with their stuff * battery life on the other hand, here suunto wins no question at all! while in smart watch mode they re about the same, maybe 2 or 3 days difference, on gps mode there is just too much difference IMO, garmin is more than 2x behind in battery. now, does that matter to you? are you gonna do some multi day hikes or really some long lasting stuff like running 100km or you just in general wants more battery life? thats up to you. * as of GPS accuraccy, i can't really speak but i ve doubt you will be dissapointed by any of those watches. GPS recievers came soo long way in few last watch generations on all devices including Polar, Coros, Suunto, Garmin, even Amazifit and others that you can't go wrong with any of those devices in terms of gps quality. yea there re some minor + - offs bettwen watches, for example i can compare Vertical vs Fenix 7x pro sapphire on same route we logged 4,45km on Fenix vs 4,6km on my Suunto, I ve started my watch slightly faster soo there might be 50m. we also both logged slightly different alltitude gain, me with around 1065m alttitude gain vs my friend fenix 1059m allitude gain, my highest point on watch was more towards official readings of 1242m (it showed 1243m while my friend logged i think 1236m or similar soo yea, if you are like "well well, garmin for 800€ can't beat vertical from suunto i ve got for half the price" kind of attitude then sure, be my guest but in reality those re soo minor difference that if you re gonna argue on that..... yea. but just to show you what i ve meant * HR data i ve heard that suunto really did a big step foward with Race 2, still some minor problems but they really solved that issues Vertical and Race have. but imo me as some1 who do more trail runs / hikes / bike rides i just took my polar h10 with me and this is by far most accurate data imo. still just to point out suunto issues * can't say for sleep tracking or quality of life features since i'm not using that, maybe will start in future. soo yea at the end imo its more towards your usuage case. me as a trail runner or bike rider or hiker i preffer battery life, snappier maps and overwall better application more than garmin extra fuctions. plus yea in my case suunto vertical costed me 400€ while back then garmin forreruner 955 and 965 costed around the same but imo inferior watch with far less battery on gps mode + plastic desing with only gorrila glass which imo is bad for hiking specially if you go some via ferrata route or more demanding rocky area where its real fear to strach your watch. and garmin 7s solar sapphire glass costed me 600€ and yea, that was far too off to spend on. soo yea, your user case will determine at the end what you wanna buy, simply as that, what you preffer more, what u value more in your watch bcs at the end you can be happy with both options or just hated them soo its really hard to say.

I’m still undecided — I was between the 570 or the 955 / 965, since they’re similar in price. Right now I use the FR545 but I feel like as a runner I need more features, e.g. heart-status metrics. What would you all choose?

Many of us have been here. Just get the best Garmin you can afford and you’ll never look back. I bought the EPIX 2, and love it, but the Forerunner 9xx series are probably the best bang for buck if you’re into fitness training.

There is Garmin Swim (IMHO essentially it is a ForeRunner, but swim has been put in focus; review here https://www.dcrainmaker.com/2019/10/garmin-openwater-review.html). However, modern Garmin watches are all able to track pool swim as well as gym workouts (you might have to set exercises later in the app if you want to track muscle groups affected). Essentially ForeRunner is for runners mostly, Forerunner 9xx is focused on triathlon, Fenix is mostly for outdoors - but again, all of them can do almost the same. I’d go with Fenix if budget allows.

Ive bought a 9 series forerunner. Id come from an apple watch too, after the initial excitement of talking to it I just found it limited in functionality for sports. I'm very happy with the forerunner, itis not the Apple watch at all. It's excellent. I dont need any more if that helps.

I've used either a Forerunner 9xx or a Fēnix for about 6 years. If you give it about 5 minutes before you swim to leatch onto as many satellites as possible after it says it has a GPS fix it's pretty good. If you dive in as soon as you get the tick, it's crap.

V2 Form goggles will do all of that. On the plus side, they're cheaper than most watches that will do the same. On the minus side, they're expensive for goggles and they have no other uses. Edit: and I didn't read the land workout bit. Garmin Forerunner 9xx definitely meets your needs. I suspect the 2xx series will as well.

Here is my reason, have you noticed that the major reviewers even when they are testing Garmin or Suunto watches are always wearing the Apple Watch Ultra on their wrist? Here is why, as great as Garmin watches are and I back this statement up , I have owned 3 Fenix's and 2 forerunner 9 series over the years. Running and Cycling are in comparison small parts of my week, even though I run 30 K a week and cycle almost 200K a week. The rest of the week, I am an employee, check email, read and respond to texts, I am a husband, a father , a podcast / music listener , a walker ,a gym goer and the Apple Watch is just an all round everyday watch for me with all the smart features. Sorry for the long winded reply.... and with regards to your last comment, I totally agree , when I was a Garmin Wearer, 99% of the time I saw someone with a Garmin, it was easy to strike a conversation as they were a runner or a cyclist. With the apple watch.....not so much lol

I know people LOVE their MIPS for the simplicity and battery life and because it’s familiar. I was recently gifted an AMOLED Forerunner ahead of a half marathon and the screen was excellent and a nice upgrade over my previous Garmins. Battery life is still more than sufficient.

I use a Garmin Forerunner watch, and it displays heart rate while tracking activity. The reading is pretty visible to me even with slightly foggy goggles but ymmv. They have a lot of models with this capability, so maybe you can find one with a bigger screen. The default heart rate screen also has a colored Zone indicator, if that's easier to see & you're not looking for exact numbers https://support.garmin.com/en-US/?faq=kbOXNev7NS4DQcc3IjAV49

I use Garmin forerunner watch, sync Strava with Garmin Connect and sync Komoot with Strava. It works like a charm.

I have a Garmin Edge bike computer and chest based heart rate because I like to see my speed on the handlebars rather than having to look at my watch. It also navigates for me on more adventurous rides and race courses I'm unfamiliar with. For local social rides I just track on my Garmin Forerunner watch.

A Garmin head unit. You could buy used to reduce the cost. I do ride wearing my forerunner watch, however it is purely for heartrate (linkeded to display on headunit) In reality you could buy the headunit and an inexpensive chest heartrate monitor such as magene. I do however like that my watch provides lots of other daily data such as resting heartrate, steps and so forth. There is benefit to headunit + basic level sports watch.

Runs are the same concept as rides. Personally, I use purpose-built devices to record: Garmin Edge bike computer, Garmin Forerunner watch (they also both do navigation, connect to heart rate sensors, watch does music, etc.). When I stop an activity and hit save, it's uploaded to Strava before I can even get the garage door open. I don't want to carry my phone on a run, and I don't want to run down the battery on all-day rides.

>Its a Vivoactive by another name. ironically i've been looking at the FR series to upgrade my old vivoactive. lack of altimeter is deal breaker for me.

I second this. Exact same use case run 3x/week and weight train 3-4x/week. I found the epix pro gen 2 sapphire to be best utility and bang for buck. I tried the FR but was too run focused and I preferred the more tactical look. The fenix 8 was nice but at double the price with same sensor technology it didn’t felt worth it. You do forgo the mic and voice features but I didn’t need it and didn’t want a true smart watch but prioritized a fitness forward watch. 3 months in and I love my Epix pro gen 2 47mm

People have to stop comparing these. These are for two different people. I would never wear an Apple Watch based on battery life alone. I specifically got the Garmin for a wrist based gps and mapping tool to track and orient myself. You buy an Apple Watch to use smart features and be connected to your phone. Garmin has never been in that market. It’s a whole company based on gps systems for outdoor activities . You buy an Apple Watch to have Apple ecosystem. you can’t use half the feature of the fenix on an iPhone bc they only want you to use their watch… Garmin are all specifically made for their audience even down the the model . Apple watches are just to keep you plugged into your phone and have no bearing on actual outdoor activities despite calling it ultra. The Millitary has been orienteering with Garmin wrist based gps systems forever. You’d never catch an Apple Watch on patrol in Afghanistan. 😂

Garmin - They have a lot of watches at different price points. There is built-in GPS and the battery lasts for several days, unlike a smart watch that you typically need to charge every night. The Garmin app easily syncs with other fitness apps, if that's important to you. If you have a smaller wrist, go for the "S" models that will look and fit better.