Garmin Forerunner 165
The Forerunner 165, announced in February 2024, is Garmin's mid-tier GPS smartwatch for workout enthusiasts, particularly runners. It doesn't have as wide a selection of training or recovery tools as the Forerunner 255, but the 165 does sport similar health-monitoring tech and notably, a bolder and brighter, touch-sensitive screen.
For
- Bright, beautiful AMOLED touchscreen
- Training and recovery tools for runners
- Sleep and wellness tracking
- Onboard GPS
- Solid battery life
Against
- Limited smart features
- Only one case size
- No multisport tracking
- Limited number of activity tracking modes
Garmin Forerunner 255
The Forerunner 255 is Garmin's upper mid-tier GPS smartwatch for multisport athletes. Replaced by the Forerunner 265 last spring, it's still a mighty capable device that can often be found discounted. You get a wider selection of sports tracking modes compared to the 165 and better recovery tools. It also comes in two case sizes but lacks a touchscreen.
For
- Two sizes available
- Accurate dual-band GPS
- Multisport/triathlonn modes
- Lots of health-monitoring tech
- Sleep tracking
- Training recovery tools
- Excellent battery life
Against
- No touchscreen
- Screen could be brighter
- Limited smart features
