Garmin Forerunner Series Buying Guide: From 165 to 965, Find Your Running Rhythm
Why runners can't live without Garmin
For runners, Garmin is more than just a watch; it's like "a coach who understands your body." From cadence, heart rate, and HRV to training load, these data points form the foundation for more scientific and safer training. The Garmin Forerunner series is designed specifically for runners, offering the perfect watch for everyone, whether you're a beginner, preparing for a half marathon, or a regular marathon runner.
Forerunner 165: The Ideal Starting Point for Beginner Runners
The Forerunner 165 boasts a vibrant AMOLED screen and accurate GPS positioning, weighing only 39 grams. It supports heart rate monitoring, sleep quality analysis, and stress tracking, and the Music version can even stream Spotify offline.
Whether it's a morning run, a gym session, or a weekend running group, you can adjust your pace using the "Daily Recommended Training." For beginners, this is the perfect starting point to enter the world of smart running.
Forerunner 265/265s: Advanced Training and Data Management
The upgraded 265 offers richer training analysis features: HRV status, training load balance, power zone suggestions, and more. The 265s is available in a smaller size (42mm), making it more comfortable for women and runners with smaller wrists.
When paired with Garmin Coach, you can design 5K, 10K, or half-marathon schedules based on your individual fitness level, making every step more precise and intelligent.
Forerunner 965: The flagship choice for professional runners
Equipped with a titanium bezel, AMOLED touchscreen, and full-color map navigation, the Forerunner 965 is standard gear for triathletes and professional athletes. It can display a number of advanced metrics (such as training effectiveness, running power, and recovery time recommendations), transforming training from a "feeling" to a "precise strategy."
With a battery life of up to 23 days, you don't have to worry about running out of power, even on long off-road trips or overseas competitions.
Why Garmin leads the stopwatch market
Garmin's position in the running watch market is unshakeable. From precise multi-frequency GNSS positioning to highly accurate heart rate detection, every technology has been tested by professional athletes for many years.
Compared to Apple Watch and Fitbit, Garmin's biggest advantage lies in Battery life + depth of professional training dataFor example, advanced metrics such as VO₂ Max, HRV status, and training load can be used to plan weekly running strategies.
Which one is best for you?
| model | Applicable groups | Key Features |
|---|---|---|
| Forerunner 165 | Beginners and fitness enthusiasts | Lightweight, AMOLED display, heart rate and sleep tracking |
| Forerunner 265 | Advanced runners | Daily training suggestions, Garmin Pay, music playback |
| Forerunner 965 | Professional runners, triathletes | Map navigation, HRV index, titanium alloy structure |
summary
From the lightweight entry-level model of 165 to the flagship evolution of 965, the Garmin Forerunner allows every runner to find their own rhythm.
Whether you are a beginner or a professional, "data" is your best partner for progress.
