Title: Garmin Forerunner 165 vs 265: A Tale of Two Running Watches

In the realm of running watches, Garmin’s Forerunner series stands tall. Among them, the Forerunner 165 and 265 have sparked curiosity, especially for those seeking a balance between affordability and advanced features. Let’s delve into the key differences between these two compelling options.

Music and Storage:

The Forerunner 265 offers music support as a standard feature, allowing you to stream tunes from your watch to wireless earphones. The 165, however, requires the “With Music” edition for this capability, which comes at an additional cost. Additionally, the 265 boasts double the storage capacity, providing more space for your favorite playlists.

Multi-band GPS:

The Forerunner 265 introduces multi-band GPS, a feature that enhances signal strength by operating on two frequency bands. While not always necessary, it proves invaluable in challenging environments like dense urban areas or under heavy tree cover.

Display and Durability:

At first glance, the 165 and 265 appear similar, with plastic casings and 5ATM water resistance. However, the 265 employs Gorilla Glass 3 for its display, while the 165 uses an unspecified “chemically strengthened glass.” This difference may impact scratch resistance, though both fall short of the durability offered by Sapphire crystal.

Performance Metrics:

The 165 offers a range of fitness features, including route creation and on-wrist navigation. However, it lacks two crucial metrics found in the 265: performance condition and training load. These metrics provide valuable insights into your overall fitness and help you optimize your training routine.

Accessory Support:

The Forerunner 265 excels in accessory connectivity, with support for smart turbo trainers. This allows you to control your bike’s resistance directly from your watch, enhancing your training experience. The 165, unfortunately, lacks this feature.

Battery Life:

The 265 boasts a longer battery life compared to the 165. While Garmin claims up to 11 days for the 165 and 15 days for the 265, real-world usage may result in shorter durations, particularly with continuous tracking and an always-on display.

Workout Animations:

The Forerunner 265 offers workout animations and muscle maps, providing visual guidance for various exercises. This feature caters to beginners seeking guidance on proper form and muscle engagement.

The Verdict:

The Forerunner 165 offers excellent value for budget-conscious shoppers, packing advanced features typically found in more expensive models. However, if you seek deeper stats, longer battery life, enhanced GPS, and compatibility with turbo trainers, the Forerunner 265 is worth considering.

Ultimately, the choice between these two Garmin watches depends on your individual needs and budget. Whether you’re a seasoned runner or just starting out, both the 165 and 265 offer reliable performance and a wealth of features to help you achieve your fitness goals.