Garmin Forerunner 165 vs Garmin Forerunner 265
Garmin Forerunner 165 (19 h GPS, 39 g) vs Garmin Forerunner 265 (20 h GPS, 47 g). Side-by-side spec comparison: battery, weight, maps, multi-band GPS and price. Which GPS watch should you buy?
GarminGarmin Forerunner 165Entry-level running watch with a 1.2" AMOLED display, 19 h GPS battery and just 39 g. Training metrics, adaptive plans and accurate multi-GNSS GPS for training and racing marathons. Garmin's gateway watch for runners who don't need maps or multi-band.
View on Amazon
GarminGarmin Forerunner 265Running watch with AMOLED display, dual-frequency multi-band GPS and onboard music. 20 h in GPS mode (14 h multi-band) and 13 days in smartwatch mode, at 47 g. The perfect balance of accuracy, advanced metrics and price for training and racing from 10K to marathon.
View on AmazonSpec-by-spec comparison
| Spec | Garmin Forerunner 165 | Garmin Forerunner 265 |
|---|---|---|
| GPS battery | 19 h | 20 h |
| Multi-band battery | – | 14 h |
| Smartwatch | 11 days | 13 days |
| Weight | 39 g | 47 g |
| Maps | – | – |
| Multi-band | – | ✓ |
| Music | – | ✓ |
| Display | AMOLED | AMOLED |
| Price | Entry | Mid-range |
GPS battery = each manufacturer's standard GPS mode; multi-band = dual-frequency (maximum accuracy). On Suunto, Polar Grit and Amazfit T-Rex the GPS figure already corresponds to dual-band mode. Figures verified against the manufacturer.
Verdict
For maximum autonomy on long ultras, Garmin Forerunner 265 lasts longer in GPS mode. If you want the lightest watch on your wrist, go for Garmin Forerunner 165. On budget, Garmin Forerunner 165 is the more affordable option.