Garmin Forerunner 165 vs Garmin Forerunner 265
Garmin Forerunner 165 (2024, listed at $249) and Garmin Forerunner 265 (2023, listed at $449) are both sport watches, so the choice comes down to specifics.
Specs last updated · prices are list prices
Garmin Forerunner 165
Most affordable Garmin AMOLED runner — training readiness, race predictor and morning report.
Garmin Forerunner 265
Mid-range runner's pick — bright AMOLED, training load focus, race predictor.
The verdict
On the numbers we track, Garmin Forerunner 165 wins on weight (39 g vs 47 g) and price ($249 vs $449); Garmin Forerunner 265 wins on battery life (13 days vs 11 days) and tracked features (5 vs 4).
Bottom line: there is no clear winner on specs (2 to 2). Decide on phone support, how often you are willing to charge, your main sport and your budget, or run the free quiz to see how each ranks for your answers.
Spec by spec
| Spec | Garmin Forerunner 165 | Garmin Forerunner 265 |
|---|---|---|
| Battery (rated) | 11 days | 13 days |
| Weight | 39 g | 47 g |
| List price | $249 | $449 |
| Water rating | 5ATM | 5ATM |
| Tracked features | 4 | 5 |
| Case size | 43 mm | 46 mm |
| Display | AMOLED | AMOLED |
| Works with | both iPhone and Android | both iPhone and Android |
| Listed best for | running | running and multisport and triathlon |
| Released | 2024 | 2023 |
Trophy marks the better value on the five measurable specs. Battery is the manufacturer's rating, not our test. How we score is on the methodology page.
Feature overlap
Both have (4)
- built-in GPS
- blood-oxygen (SpO₂)
- AMOLED display
- swim tracking
Only Garmin Forerunner 165 (0)
Nothing unique.
Only Garmin Forerunner 265 (1)
- on-device music
Which one should you pick?
Pick the Garmin Forerunner 165 if…
- You want to spend less: it lists for $200 less.
- You want a lighter watch: 39 g vs 47 g.
- You might switch phones: it works with both iPhone and Android, the Garmin Forerunner 265 only works with Android.
- You want the newer model (2024 vs 2023).
Pick the Garmin Forerunner 265 if…
- You want fewer charges: about 13 days per charge vs 11 days.
- You need on-device music, which the Garmin Forerunner 165 does not list.
- Your main use is multisport and triathlon: it is listed for that and the Garmin Forerunner 165 is not.
- You might switch phones: it works with both iPhone and Android, the Garmin Forerunner 165 only works with Android.
Skip it if…
- • You have a small wrist (under about 160 mm) — the 46 mm case we list is large (check whether a smaller size is sold).
Frequently asked questions
Which has better battery life, the Garmin Forerunner 165 or the Garmin Forerunner 265?
The Garmin Forerunner 265 has the longer rated battery life: about 13 days per charge against 11 days. These are manufacturer ratings; heavy GPS, always-on display and cellular use will cut both.
Which is cheaper, the Garmin Forerunner 165 or the Garmin Forerunner 265?
The Garmin Forerunner 165 has the lower list price: $249 against $449 in our database. List prices change often, so check Amazon for today's price.
Do the Garmin Forerunner 165 and Garmin Forerunner 265 work with iPhone and Android?
Yes, they have the same phone support: both iPhone and Android.
Which is better for swimming, the Garmin Forerunner 165 or the Garmin Forerunner 265?
Neither has an edge on water rating: both are rated 5ATM. 5ATM is suitable for showering and pool swimming, but not for high-speed water sports or diving.
Not sure either is right for you?
Nine questions about your phone, sport, wrist and budget, scored against all of our watches with the reasoning shown.
Take the free quizRelated comparisons
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