Garmin Forerunner 265 vs Garmin Forerunner 965
Garmin Forerunner 265 (20 h GPS, 47 g) vs Garmin Forerunner 965 (31 h GPS, 53 g). Side-by-side spec comparison: battery, weight, maps, multi-band GPS and price. Which GPS watch should you buy?
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.
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GarminGarmin Forerunner 965Premium running watch with a 1.4" AMOLED display, onboard topo maps, multi-band GPS and music. Up to 31 h in GPS mode (19 h multi-band) and 23 days in smartwatch mode, at just 53 g. Garmin's top running watch without the bulk of a Fenix: ideal for marathons and single-day ultras with accurate navigation.
View on AmazonSpec-by-spec comparison
| Spec | Garmin Forerunner 265 | Garmin Forerunner 965 |
|---|---|---|
| GPS battery | 20 h | 31 h |
| Multi-band battery | 14 h | 19 h |
| Smartwatch | 13 days | 23 days |
| Weight | 47 g | 53 g |
| Maps | – | ✓ |
| Multi-band | ✓ | ✓ |
| Music | ✓ | ✓ |
| Display | AMOLED | AMOLED |
| Price | Mid-range | High-end |
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 965 lasts longer in GPS mode. If you want the lightest watch on your wrist, go for Garmin Forerunner 265. Only Garmin Forerunner 965 brings onboard topo maps for navigation. On budget, Garmin Forerunner 265 is the more affordable option.