Garmin Forerunner 265 vs Polar Pacer Pro
Garmin Forerunner 265 (20 h GPS, 47 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 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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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 265 | Polar Pacer Pro |
|---|---|---|
| GPS battery | 20 h | 35 h |
| Multi-band battery | 14 h | – |
| Smartwatch | 13 days | 7 days |
| Weight | 47 g | 41 g |
| Maps | – | – |
| Multi-band | ✓ | – |
| Music | ✓ | – |
| Display | AMOLED | MIP |
| Price | Mid-range | 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 Polar Pacer Pro. On budget, Polar Pacer Pro is the more affordable option.