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Garmin Forerunner 265 and Garmin Forerunner 165 are two top fitness smartwatches for advanced tracking, durability, and long-lasting performance. The Garmin Forerunner 265 is the newer and more advanced model with a vibrant AMOLED display, broader health tracking, and upgraded fitness features. 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 265 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 265
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Display:
- Garmin Forerunner 265 includes a 1.3-inch AMOLED display that enhances readability with higher contrast and deeper colors.
- Garmin Forerunner 165 has a 1.2-inch AMOLED display.
Winner:
Garmin Forerunner 265
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Internal Storage:
- Garmin Forerunner 265 includes 8GB of internal storage that allows to store more music for phone-free workouts.
- Garmin Forerunner 165 does not include internal storage.
Winner:
Garmin Forerunner 265
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Display Resolution:
- Garmin Forerunner 265 has a 416 x 416 resolution that delivers sharper text and graphics.
- Garmin Forerunner 165 comes with a 390 x 390 pixel resolution.
Winner:
Garmin Forerunner 265
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Dual Frequency GPS:
- Garmin Forerunner 265 includes dual-frequency GPS for better accuracy in dense environments like cities or trails.
- Garmin Forerunner 165 does not support dual-frequency GPS.
Winner:
Garmin Forerunner 265
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Battery Life:
- Garmin Forerunner 265 includes a rechargeable battery that lasts up to 13 days in smartwatch mode to reduce frequent charging.
- Garmin Forerunner 165 lasts up to 11 days in smartwatch mode under typical usage.
Winner:
Garmin Forerunner 265
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Fitness Features:
- Garmin Forerunner 265 includes HRV status, training readiness, and Pulse Ox that enable deeper health insights and recovery guidance.
- Garmin Forerunner 165 includes HRV and basic training.
Winner:
Garmin Forerunner 265
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Durability:
- Garmin Forerunner 265 uses fiber-reinforced polymer, Gorilla Glass 3 and better button response for rugged use.
- Garmin Forerunner 165 is built for everyday fitness with less emphasis on ruggedness.
Winner:
Garmin Forerunner 265
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Connectivity:
- Garmin Forerunner 265 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 265
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Microphone :
- Garmin Forerunner 265 includes a built-in microphone that allows to respond messages with voice.
- Garmin Forerunner 165 does not include a microphone.
Winner:
Garmin Forerunner 265
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Action Button:
- Garmin Forerunner 265 includes an extra action button that enables quick workout control and access to features.
- Garmin Forerunner 165 does not include an action button.
Winner:
Garmin Forerunner 265
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Sport Mode:
- Garmin Forerunner 265 supports over 30 sport mode including triathlon, HIIT, and open water swimming.
- Garmin Forerunner 165 supports 25+ modes and basic training options.
Winner:
Garmin Forerunner 265
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Specs at a Glance
| Feature |
Garmin Forerunner 265 |
Garmin Forerunner 165 |
| Display Size |
1.3-inch AMOLED |
1.2-inch AMOLED |
| Display Resolution |
416 x 416 pixels |
390 x 390 pixels |
| Dual Frequency GPS |
Yes |
No |
| Internal Storage |
8GB |
None |
| Music Storage |
Yes |
No |
| Battery Life (Smartwatch Mode) |
Up to 13 days |
Up to 11 days |
| Battery Life (GPS Mode) |
Up to 20 hours |
Up to 19 hours |
| Charging Method |
Proprietary USB cable |
Proprietary USB cable |
| WiFi |
Yes |
No |
| Microphone |
Yes |
No |
| Health Features |
Advanced training, HRV status, Pulse Ox |
Basic training, HRV status |
| Sport Modes |
30+ including Triathlon |
25+ |
| Action Button |
Yes |
No |
Who Should Buy What?
Buy the Garmin Forerunner 265 if you:
- Want a high-end AMOLED running watch with advanced training metrics and GPS accuracy.
- Need onboard music storage and WiFi syncing for phone-free workouts.
- Appreciate a larger display, faster performance, and more sport modes like triathlon.
- Prefer having a microphone, action button, and longer battery life.
- Are a serious runner or athlete looking for future-proofed features.
Check Garmin Forerunner 265 Best Price
Buy the Garmin Forerunner 165 if you:
- Want a solid AMOLED running watch at a more affordable price.
- Don’t need offline music or WiFi syncing.
- Prefer a smaller and lighter watch for everyday wear.
- Are new to training and want core metrics like HRV, sleep, and workout suggestions.
- Value simple, reliable tracking without all the extras.
Check Forerunner 165 Best Price |
Winner by Category
| Category |
Winner |
| Processor |
Garmin Forerunner 265 |
| Dual Frequency GPS |
Garmin Forerunner 265 |
| Display Size |
Garmin Forerunner 265 |
| Higher Resolution |
Garmin Forerunner 265 |
| Display Brightness |
Garmin Forerunner 265 |
| Internal Storage |
Garmin Forerunner 265 |
| Battery Life |
Garmin Forerunner 265 |
| Sport Mode |
Garmin Forerunner 265 |
| Action Button |
Garmin Forerunner 265 |
| WiFi |
Garmin Forerunner 265 |
| Health & Fitness |
Garmin Forerunner 265 |
| Microphone |
Garmin Forerunner 265 |
| Connectivity |
Garmin Forerunner 265 |
| Durability |
Garmin Forerunner 265 |
FAQ
Does the Garmin Forerunner 265 support music storage and playback without a phone?
Yes, the Garmin Forerunner 265 includes 8GB of internal storage which allows users to store and play music directly from the watch using Bluetooth headphones, without needing a connected smartphone.
Can the Garmin Forerunner 165 track heart rate variability (HRV)?
Yes, the Garmin Forerunner 165 includes HRV status tracking, providing insights into your recovery and stress levels based on heart rate variability during sleep.
Is dual-frequency GPS available on the Garmin Forerunner 165?
No, the Garmin Forerunner 165 does not support dual-frequency GPS. This feature is exclusive to the Garmin Forerunner 265, which improves location accuracy in challenging environments.
Does the Garmin Forerunner 265 have WiFi connectivity?
Yes, the Garmin Forerunner 265 supports WiFi, enabling wireless music downloads, software updates, and app syncing without needing a phone connection.
Is the AMOLED display always on for both models?
Yes, both the Garmin Forerunner 265 and Forerunner 165 support an always-on AMOLED display mode, allowing you to check time and stats at a glance without tapping the screen.
Can I use the Garmin Forerunner 165 to respond to notifications?
No, the Garmin Forerunner 165 does not have a microphone or voice reply feature, so you cannot respond to notifications directly from the watch.
Does either watch support triathlon or multi-sport mode?
Yes, the Garmin Forerunner 265 supports triathlon and multi-sport modes, making it suitable for advanced endurance athletes. The Forerunner 165 does not include these modes.
Are both watches compatible with Garmin Connect IQ apps?
Yes, both watches are compatible with Garmin’s Connect IQ app store, but only the Forerunner 265 supports on-device app downloads through WiFi. The 165 requires a phone to install apps.
What kind of charging method is used for both models?
Both the Garmin Forerunner 265 and Forerunner 165 use Garmin’s proprietary USB charging cable, and neither supports wireless charging.
How water-resistant are the Forerunner 265 and 165?
Both models are rated at 5 ATM water resistance, which means they are suitable for swimming, showering, and use in rain or during water-based workouts.