Garmin Forerunner 965 vs Suunto Vertical
Garmin Forerunner 965 (31 h GPS, 53 g) vs Suunto Vertical (60 h GPS, 86 g). Side-by-side spec comparison: battery, weight, maps, multi-band GPS and price. Which GPS watch should you buy?
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.
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SuuntoSuunto VerticalAdventure watch with free offline topo maps and enormous battery life: 60 h in dual-band and up to 60 days in daily use, with a 500 h Tour mode. Large display, dual-band GPS and five satellite systems. Built for big mountain crossings and multi-day ultras.
View on AmazonSpec-by-spec comparison
| Spec | Garmin Forerunner 965 | Suunto Vertical |
|---|---|---|
| GPS battery | 31 h | 60 h |
| Multi-band battery | 19 h | Yes |
| Smartwatch | 23 days | 60 days |
| Weight | 53 g | 86 g |
| Maps | ✓ | ✓ |
| Multi-band | ✓ | ✓ |
| Music | ✓ | – |
| Display | AMOLED | MIP |
| Price | High-end | 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, Suunto Vertical lasts longer in GPS mode. If you want the lightest watch on your wrist, go for Garmin Forerunner 965. Both sit in the same price segment, so let battery, weight and the feature you value most decide.