Garmin Forerunner 265 vs Garmin Instinct 3 Solar 50 mm
Garmin Forerunner 265 (20 h GPS, 47 g) vs Garmin Instinct 3 Solar 50 mm (60 h GPS, 60 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 Instinct 3 Solar 50 mmUltra-rugged GPS watch with solar charging: up to 40 days in smartwatch mode (unlimited with sun), 60 h GPS and 34 h multi-band. Military-standard case, LED flashlight and dual-frequency GPS. For those who prioritise toughness and battery over onboard maps on their mountain outings.
View on AmazonSpec-by-spec comparison
| Spec | Garmin Forerunner 265 | Garmin Instinct 3 Solar 50 mm |
|---|---|---|
| GPS battery | 20 h | 60 h |
| Multi-band battery | 14 h | 34 h |
| Smartwatch | 13 days | 40 days |
| Weight | 47 g | 60 g |
| Maps | – | – |
| Multi-band | ✓ | ✓ |
| Music | ✓ | – |
| Display | AMOLED | MIP |
| Price | Mid-range | 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 Instinct 3 Solar 50 mm lasts longer in GPS mode. If you want the lightest watch on your wrist, go for Garmin Forerunner 265. Both sit in the same price segment, so let battery, weight and the feature you value most decide.