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Garmin Forerunner 255 and Garmin Forerunner 165 are two top fitness smartwatches for advanced tracking, durability, and long-lasting performance. The Garmin Forerunner 255 is the newer and more advanced model with a wider range of features for serious runners and multi-sport athletes. The Forerunner 165 remains a popular entry-level running watch and more budget-friendly option. This comparison will help you decide which one fits your lifestyle best.
Feature-by-Feature Breakdown
Processor:
- Garmin Forerunner 255 features an advanced processor that delivers faster interface response and smoother screen transitions.
- Garmin Forerunner 165 uses a simpler processor with basic performance for everyday tracking.
Winner:
Garmin Forerunner 255
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Display Size:
- Garmin Forerunner 255 includes a 1.3-inch display to show more data clearly during workouts..
- Garmin Forerunner 165 has a 1.2-inch display.
Winner:
Garmin Forerunner 255
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Dual Frequency GPS:
- Garmin Forerunner 255 supports dual-frequency GPS that reduces signal errors in dense environments like cities or forests.
- Garmin Forerunner 165 uses standard multi-GNSS without multi-band support.
Winner:
Garmin Forerunner 255
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Battery Life:
- Garmin Forerunner 255 has a battery that lasts up to 14 days in smartwatch mode and up to 30 hours in GPS mode to support longer training cycles.
- Garmin Forerunner 165 runs up to 11 days in smartwatch mode and 19 hours in GPS mode.
Winner:
Garmin Forerunner 255
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Fitness Features:
- Garmin Forerunner 255 includes HRV status, morning report, and training readiness that provide deeper insights into recovery and performance.
- Garmin Forerunner 165 supports heart rate, sleep, recovery time, and VO2 max.
Winner:
Garmin Forerunner 255
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Durability:
- Garmin Forerunner 255 features a fiber-reinforced polymer case that enhances structural toughness during high-impact activities.
- Garmin Forerunner 165 has a plastic build suited for general daily and fitness use.
Winner:
Garmin Forerunner 255
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Connectivity:
- Garmin Forerunner 255 supports Bluetooth, ANT+, and WiFi that help sync music, data, and accessories without a phone.
- Garmin Forerunner 165 supports Bluetooth and ANT+ only.
Winner:
Garmin Forerunner 255
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Action Button:
- Garmin Forerunner 255 includes a customizable action button that simplifies marking laps and starting workouts.
- Garmin Forerunner 165 does not include an action button.
Winner:
Garmin Forerunner 255
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Sport Mode:
- Garmin Forerunner 255 includes over 30 sport modes that cater to triathlon, open water swimming, and more advanced activities.
- Garmin Forerunner 165 includes over 25 modes including HIIT and running.
Winner:
Garmin Forerunner 255
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Specs at a Glance
| Feature |
Garmin Forerunner 255 |
Garmin Forerunner 165 |
| Processor |
Faster chip with multi-band GNSS |
Entry-level processor |
| Display |
1.3″ MIP, 260 x 260 resolution |
1.2″ AMOLED, 390 x 390 resolution |
| Battery Life |
Up to 14 days (Smartwatch) |
Up to 11 days (Smartwatch) |
| GPS Battery Life |
Up to 30 hours |
Up to 19 hours |
| Dual Frequency GPS |
Yes |
No |
| Sport Modes |
30+ including Triathlon and Open Water Swim |
25+ with HIIT, Yoga, and Running |
| Wi-Fi |
Yes |
No |
| Charging Method |
Garmin proprietary cable |
Garmin proprietary cable |
| Action Button |
Yes |
No |
| Rugged Build |
Fiber-reinforced polymer case |
Plastic casing |
Who Should Buy What?
Buy the Garmin Forerunner 255 if you:
- Want advanced GPS features including dual-frequency tracking for high-accuracy runs.
- Need support for triathlons, open water swimming, and multi-sport events.
- Prefer a longer battery life for extended outdoor sessions.
- Rely on Wi-Fi syncing and full ANT+ compatibility.
- Appreciate having a physical action button and rugged design.
Check Garmin Forerunner 255 Best Price
Buy the Garmin Forerunner 165 if you:
- Prefer a colorful AMOLED screen with always-on visibility.
- Need a lighter, more compact watch that feels comfortable all day.
- Want microphone access for voice prompts during workouts.
- Are focused on general health, running, and indoor fitness tracking.
- Want a more affordable watch with modern display tech.
Check Forerunner 165 Best Price |
Winner by Category
| Category |
Winner |
| Processor |
Garmin Forerunner 255 |
| Dual Frequency GPS |
Garmin Forerunner 255 |
| Display Size |
Garmin Forerunner 255 |
| Battery Life |
Garmin Forerunner 255 |
| Sport Mode |
Garmin Forerunner 255 |
| Action Button |
Garmin Forerunner 255 |
| Wi-Fi |
Garmin Forerunner 255 |
| Health & Fitness |
Garmin Forerunner 255 |
| Connectivity |
Garmin Forerunner 255 |
| Durability |
Garmin Forerunner 255 |
FAQ
Does the Garmin Forerunner 255 support dual-frequency GPS?
Yes, the Garmin Forerunner 255 supports dual-frequency (multi-band) GPS, which provides more accurate positioning in challenging environments like urban areas or dense forests.
Is the display on the Garmin Forerunner 165 always on?
Yes, the Garmin Forerunner 165 has an AMOLED display with an always-on mode, allowing users to see the time and stats at a glance without raising the wrist.
Can either watch store and play music offline?
The standard Garmin Forerunner 255 does not support offline music, but the Music Edition does. The Garmin Forerunner 165 does not have onboard music storage or playback support.
Do both watches have a microphone for phone calls or voice commands?
The Garmin Forerunner 165 includes a microphone that supports voice assistance and limited call features when paired with a smartphone. The Forerunner 255 does not include a microphone.
Which watch is better for advanced multi-sport training?
The Garmin Forerunner 255 is better suited for advanced users, offering triathlon mode, open water swimming, dual-band GPS, and deeper performance metrics.
Are both watches compatible with Garmin Connect?
Yes, both the Forerunner 255 and Forerunner 165 fully sync with the Garmin Connect app for data analysis, settings customization, and activity history.
Do either watches support Wi-Fi connectivity?
Only the Garmin Forerunner 255 includes Wi-Fi connectivity for syncing activities and software updates without a smartphone connection.
Can I use these watches for swimming?
Yes, both watches are rated at 5 ATM water resistance, which means they can be used during pool swimming and showering without issue.
Which model has the better display quality?
The Garmin Forerunner 165 has a superior AMOLED display with higher resolution and better contrast compared to the transflective MIP display on the Forerunner 255.