Garmin Forerunner 165 vs Polar Pacer Pro
Garmin Forerunner 165 (19 h GPS, 39 g) vs Polar Pacer Pro (35 h GPS, 41 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
PolarPolar Pacer ProUltra-light running watch (41 g) focused on power-based training and Polar's running metrics. 35 h of battery in GPS mode and breadcrumb navigation. Simple, thin and comfortable, with one of the best training-analysis platforms for road and light-trail runners.
View on AmazonSpec-by-spec comparison
| Spec | Garmin Forerunner 165 | Polar Pacer Pro |
|---|---|---|
| GPS battery | 19 h | 35 h |
| Multi-band battery | – | – |
| Smartwatch | 11 days | 7 days |
| Weight | 39 g | 41 g |
| Maps | – | – |
| Multi-band | – | – |
| Music | – | – |
| Display | AMOLED | MIP |
| Price | Entry | Entry |
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, Polar Pacer Pro lasts longer in GPS mode. If you want the lightest watch on your wrist, go for Garmin Forerunner 165. Both sit in the same price segment, so let battery, weight and the feature you value most decide.