Garmin Forerunner 265 vs Garmin Forerunner 965 

By Linus T.
Updated June 2023

Garmin's Forerunner series is highly regarded in the world of smartwatches, and two models that have garnered significant attention are the Garmin Forerunner 265 and the Garmin Forerunner 965.

While both models are GPS running smartwatches equipped with a comprehensive suite of health and fitness tracking tools, they offer different features to cater to different needs. If you're looking for an entry-level GPS running smartwatch, you may want to consider the Garmin Forerunner 55. However, if you're looking for a more fully-featured option, you may want to compare the Garmin Forerunner 265 vs Garmin Forerunner 965.

In this article, we'll provide an in-depth comparison of the Garmin Forerunner 265 vs Garmin Forerunner 965 to help you decide which one is right for you.

Garmin Forerunner 265

Lightweight & Affordable

Train brilliantly with a bright and beautiful AMOLED display for all your running needs.

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Garmin Forerunner 965

Premium Aesthetics & Features

Advanced GPS running smartwatch with a premium finish and advanced tracking features.

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#1 Price

Garmin Forerunner 265 vs Garmin Forerunner 965 

When it comes to pricing, there is a difference between the Garmin Forerunner 265 and the Garmin Forerunner 965. The Forerunner 265 has a retail price of US\$449.99, while the Forerunner 965 retails for US\$599.99.

With such a price gap, it's clear that the Forerunner 965 is the higher-end model with more advanced features.

#2 Design & Specs

Garmin Forerunner 265 vs Garmin Forerunner 965

When it comes to design, the Garmin Forerunner 265 and the Garmin Forerunner 965 have their unique features. While both models have a round face with buttons that control all features and settings on the watch, the Forerunner 965 features a larger, 1.4-inch display compared to the Forerunner 265's 1.3-inch display. This larger display provides a more immersive experience when viewing your stats, maps, and other information on the watch's face. Do note that the Garmin Forerunner 255 also have a smaller version available too with a 1.1-inch display.

In terms of build quality and materials used, the Garmin Forerunner 965 also stands out with its premium titanium bezel finish that exudes a sense of luxury and durability, while the Forerunner 265 has a fibre-reinforced polymer bezel that is more lightweight and affordable. The titanium bezel on the Forerunner 965 not only looks great but also provides better resistance against scratches and impacts, making it an ideal choice for users who want a durable and long-lasting smartwatch. On the other hand, the fibre-reinforced polymer bezel on the Forerunner 265 offers good protection against wear and tear while keeping the overall weight of the watch low.

Both models, however, feature an upgrade in their display technology as compared to their predecessors. Their new AMOLED display offers more vivid colours and deeper blacks for greater visual appeal and clarity, providing a superior viewing experience compared to its predecessor. They both also feature a touchscreen for easy navigation through various stats and maps directly on the watch face. With the AMOLED and touchscreen features, users can enjoy a more immersive experience when viewing their stats, maps, and other information on the watch's face.

#3 Health & Fitness

Garmin Forerunner 265 vs Garmin Forerunner 965

The Garmin Forerunner 265 and Forerunner 965 offer a comprehensive suite of health and fitness features to help you achieve your fitness goals.

Both watches are equipped with heart rate monitoring, sleep tracking, and stress level monitoring to provide insights into your overall well-being. Additionally, they offer guided breathing exercises to help you manage stress and improve relaxation.

For fitness tracking, both watches come with GPS tracking that can monitor pace, distance, and route during activities such as running, cycling, and hiking. They also offer advanced metrics such as VO2 max, cadence, and stride length to help you fine-tune your performance.

Furthermore, these watches provide a variety of activity profiles tailored to different sports and activities. The Forerunner 265 offers profiles for running, indoor running, cycling, and cardio workouts, while the Forerunner 965 has expanded options for swimming, skiing, paddle sports, and more. With training plans and coaching available through the Garmin Connect app, you can customise your workouts based on your fitness goals and performance data.

Where the Forerunner 965 stands out is in its full mapping capabilities with preloaded topographical, road, and trail maps. This feature makes it an excellent option for outdoor enthusiasts who want to explore new routes without relying on their smartphone or paper maps. Additionally, the Forerunner 965 offers advanced training features such as Load Ratio to show the relationship between Chronic Load and Acute Load at a glance. It also provides real-time Stamina and ClimbPro features to track your performance during activities.

While the Forerunner 265 doesn't have full mapping capabilities preloaded onto the watch like the Forerunner 965, it still offers basic navigation features that are useful for runners and fitness enthusiasts. You can import routes onto the watch or use standard fitness tracking features to achieve your fitness goals.

#4 Smartwatch Functions

Garmin Forerunner 265 vs Garmin Forerunner 965

When it comes to day-to-day smartwatch features, the Garmin Forerunner 265 and the Garmin Forerunner 965 offer similar capabilities.

Both models allow you to download music directly onto the watch, giving you the freedom to leave your phone behind and still enjoy your favourite songs while on the go. Additionally, both models have Garmin Pay embedded for seamless payments during checkout. Users can also expect Smart Notifications, Safety & Tracking features, and compatibility with the Garmin Connect app, as found in previous models.

Overall, users who prioritise these day-to-day smartwatch features will find both the Forerunner 265 and the Forerunner 965 to be excellent choices. Whether you're a fitness enthusiast or a casual user, these models offer a great set of features that make them versatile and convenient for everyday use.

#5 Battery & Power

Garmin Forerunner 265 vs Garmin Forerunner 965

The Garmin Forerunner 965 boasts an impressive battery life that outperforms the Forerunner 265 in several aspects. In smartwatch mode, it can last up to 23 days, making it a great option for those who don't want to worry about charging their watch frequently. Additionally, it can last up to 31 hours in GPS mode, which is ideal for outdoor activities such as hiking or running.

On the other hand, the Forerunner 265 offers respectable battery life that should be sufficient for most users' needs. It can last up to 13 days in smartwatch mode and up to 20 hours in GPS mode. While it may not have the same longevity as the Forerunner 965, it still provides good battery performance that can last through a day of activities.

It's important to note that battery life can vary depending on usage and settings. For example, using features such as music playback or heart rate monitoring may drain the battery faster than just using basic features like notifications and step tracking. Ultimately, users who prioritize long battery life may prefer the Forerunner 965, but of course, that comes with the additional price tag.

Garmin Forerunner 265 vs Garmin Forerunner 965

Final Thoughts

In conclusion, the Garmin Forerunner 265 and Garmin Forerunner 965 are both excellent GPS running smartwatches that offer unique features and capabilities. Ultimately, the choice between these two models depends on your personal preferences and priorities.

For those who value a larger display, premium materials, and extended battery life, the Forerunner 965 may be the superior choice. Additionally, if you enjoy golfing, skiing, or trail running and prefer to venture into remote areas, the Forerunner 965 offers full mapping capabilities and features like Stamina and ClimbPro.

However, if you prioritise affordability, lightweight design, and good battery performance, then the Forerunner 265 may be more suitable. Regardless of which model you choose, both offer excellent features for those who want a reliable GPS running smartwatch to track their fitness goals and activities.

If you like to read more on Garmin smartwatches, check out our other relevant guides here:

Garmin Forerunner 265 vs Garmin Forerunner 255

Garmin Forerunner 255 vs Garmin Forerunner 245

Garmin Forerunner 965 vs Garmin Forerunner 955

Garmin Forerunner 955 vs Garmin Forerunner 945

Explore the full collection for Garmin on Amazon.com or visit the Official Garmin Singapore Store.