Garmin Forerunner 265
Buy Garmin Forerunner 265 at today's best price
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Overview
The Garmin Forerunner 265 is a versatile running watch known for its advanced features and user-friendly interface.
Key Features:
- AMOLED Display: Offers a vibrant and clear screen for easy readability.
- Training Readiness Score: Provides insights into your readiness for training based on various metrics.
- Music Storage: Allows storage of up to 500 songs for on-the-go listening.
The Garmin Forerunner 265 is an ideal choice for runners who prioritize detailed training metrics and a high-quality display for everyday use. Its music storage offers convenience, making it suitable for long runs or workouts.
Based on our monitoring of prices across the internet, it's currently in the most expensive 40% of running watches today.
Verdict
The consensus on the Garmin Forerunner 265
The Garmin Forerunner 265 is a well-rounded running watch that excels in providing detailed training insights and a user-friendly experience. Its AMOLED display is a standout feature, offering vibrant visuals that enhance readability during runs. The Training Readiness Score is particularly useful for athletes looking to optimize their training schedules, providing a comprehensive overview of sleep, recovery, and stress levels. The watch's music storage capability is a convenient addition, allowing runners to enjoy their favorite tunes without needing a separate device. However, the battery life, while decent, is slightly reduced due to the power demands of the AMOLED screen. The heart rate monitor and GPS accuracy are generally reliable, though some users have noted minor discrepancies in challenging environments. Overall, the Forerunner 265 offers excellent value for money, especially for those who appreciate its advanced features and sleek design. It is a solid choice for runners seeking a balance of performance and functionality.
Updates to Garmin Forerunner 265
The Garmin Forerunner 265 introduces several updates over its predecessor, the Garmin Forerunner 255. One of the most notable changes is the inclusion of an AMOLED display, providing a more vibrant and clear screen. The Training Readiness Score is another significant addition, offering enhanced insights into an athlete's preparedness for training. The Forerunner 265 also features improved battery life, lasting up to 13 days in smartwatch mode and 20 hours in GPS mode. These updates make the Forerunner 265 a more advanced option within the Garmin Forerunner family.
Comparable Watches
The Coros Apex 2 is a good alternative for those seeking a durable build with a titanium bezel and sapphire crystal glass. It offers a transflective display that is more visible in direct sunlight compared to the AMOLED screen of the Forerunner 265. While the Apex II lacks some of the advanced training features of the Garmin, it excels in battery life, making it suitable for longer adventures.
The Garmin Forerunner 965 is a more premium option with additional features like full-blown landscape maps and a titanium bezel. It is ideal for those who require extensive navigation capabilities and are willing to invest in a higher-priced model. The Forerunner 965 offers a more comprehensive set of features, but the Forerunner 265 remains a strong contender for those focused on running and basic multisport activities.
The Garmin Instinct 2 is a rugged alternative with a focus on outdoor activities. It offers similar training features but with a more durable design, making it suitable for those who engage in hiking and other outdoor sports. While it lacks the AMOLED display of the Forerunner 265, it compensates with a longer battery life and robust build quality.
6 Garmin Forerunner 265 Pros & Cons
3 Pros
3 Cons
In Depth
Battery life
The Garmin Forerunner 265 offers a battery life of up to 13 days in smartwatch mode and 20 hours in GPS mode. This is suitable for most runners, though the AMOLED display can drain the battery faster than traditional screens. The watch includes battery-saving features to help extend usage time, making it a reliable choice for running enthusiasts who need a dependable device for long sessions.
Screen quality and brightness
The Forerunner 265 features a bright AMOLED display, which is a significant upgrade from previous models. This screen provides excellent visibility in various lighting conditions, making it easier for runners to read data on the go. The vibrant colors and high resolution enhance the overall user experience, setting it apart from other Garmin watches.
Strap comfort
The watch comes with a textured silicone band that fits comfortably on the wrist. It is designed to accommodate a range of wrist sizes, ensuring a snug fit during intense activities. The strap's material is durable and resistant to wear, making it ideal for running and other sports.
Heart-rate monitor accuracy
The Forerunner 265 is equipped with a wrist-based heart rate monitor that provides accurate readings for most users. It is particularly useful for those who engage in heart rate training, offering insights into workout intensity and recovery. While generally reliable, some users may experience minor fluctuations in readings during high-intensity activities.
GPS accuracy
The watch includes GPS, GLONASS, and Galileo satellite systems, ensuring accurate tracking of runs. This multi-satellite capability enhances positioning accuracy, making it a reliable choice for runners who train in diverse environments. The GPS performance is consistent, though it may vary slightly in areas with tall buildings or dense foliage.
Sleep tracking
The Forerunner 265 offers comprehensive sleep tracking features, including monitoring sleep stages and providing insights into sleep quality. This data helps runners understand their recovery needs and optimize their training schedules. The sleep tracking is generally accurate, contributing to the watch's overall utility as a fitness companion.
Virtual coach and recovery
The watch's Training Readiness Score acts as a virtual coach, offering personalized insights into recovery and training readiness. This feature helps runners plan their workouts effectively, reducing the risk of overtraining. It combines data from sleep, heart rate variability (HRV), and stress levels to provide a holistic view of an athlete's condition.
Who should buy the Garmin Forerunner 265?
The Garmin Forerunner 265 is perfect for runners who value detailed training metrics and a high-quality display. It's ideal for those who engage in running and cross-training, offering features like the Training Readiness Score and music storage. Athletes who appreciate a sleek design and vibrant screen will find this watch appealing. Its comprehensive tracking capabilities make it suitable for data-driven individuals looking to optimize their performance.
Who should not buy the Garmin Forerunner 265?
This watch may not be the best choice for those who prefer a simpler device without advanced features. If battery life is a top priority, especially for ultra-endurance events, the Forerunner 265's AMOLED display might not meet expectations. Runners who do not require detailed training insights or music storage might find more value in a less feature-rich model. Additionally, those who need cellular connectivity should consider other options, as this watch lacks such capabilities.
Garmin Forerunner 265: What's it good for?
The Garmin Forerunner 265 is excellent for running and cross-training activities. Its advanced features make it suitable for running enthusiasts who want to track their performance in detail. The watch is also ideal for triathletes due to its multisport capabilities. With its vibrant display and comprehensive tracking, it's well-suited for data-driven athletes aiming to improve their training efficiency.
5 Garmin Forerunner 265 FAQs
What is the battery life of the Garmin Forerunner 265?
The Forerunner 265 offers up to 13 days of battery life in smartwatch mode and 20 hours in GPS mode, making it suitable for most running activities.
Does the Garmin Forerunner 265 have music storage?
Yes, the Forerunner 265 can store up to 500 songs, allowing runners to enjoy music without needing a separate device.
How accurate is the GPS on the Garmin Forerunner 265?
The Forerunner 265 features GPS, GLONASS, and Galileo satellite systems, providing accurate tracking for most running environments.
Is the Garmin Forerunner 265 suitable for triathlons?
Yes, the Forerunner 265 supports multiple sport profiles, including triathlon, making it a versatile choice for multisport athletes.
What is the Training Readiness Score on the Garmin Forerunner 265?
The Training Readiness Score is a feature that analyzes sleep, recovery, and stress levels to provide insights into an athlete's readiness for training.
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