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Rating 4.8 out of 5 stars with 300 reviews
Jarhead1974 Posted
The Forerunner 265 is a major improvement over previous models. Improved battery life, more intuitive menu functions and ease of use make this model a great value, especially for runners and those who workout at the gym.
RONN Posted
I tried other watches, all the top rings and then there was Garmin. The complete workout watch. Im a runner learning how swim an love lifting. This entry level Garmin had me covered! Love the body battery and the rediness score! Looking forward to the next upgrade! The interface takes a little getting used to but not long. Watch Videos!
Sean Posted
I love this watch. All the different features are great...battery life is long, very functional. Can't complain. Would recommend to anyone who's willing to spend a little more on a forever watch.
soundbite Posted
Got for my son who is an athlete and wanted to track health stats. He had used an Apple Watch in the past but this is a better fit (functionality-wise) for him. Battery life is amazing, last WAY longer than any Apple Watch. Proprietary charging cable is a bummer, USB-C would have been nice. Personally, I use an Apple Watch Ultra, but I've been highly impressed by this and would recommend it for the right use case.
BenR Posted
I picked up the Forerunner 265 mainly for its GPS and training features, and it’s exceeded expectations. The AMOLED display is crisp and easy to read outdoors, and the interface feels intuitive without being overly flashy. I’ve used it for running, hiking, and even a few swim sessions—GPS accuracy is solid, and the multi-band support makes a noticeable difference in tracking. Battery life is decent. I get through several workouts before needing a charge, though it’s not quite as long-lasting as some other Garmin models I’ve tried. Still, for what it offers—especially the training readiness insights and HRV tracking—it’s a fair trade-off. Music storage is a nice bonus, though syncing can be a little clunky. Once it’s set up, though, it’s great not having to carry my phone on runs. The build quality feels premium, and the 46 mm size works well for my wrist—lightweight but sturdy. Overall, this watch hits the sweet spot between performance and usability. If you’re serious about training and want something that doesn’t just look good but actually helps you improve, the Forerunner 265 is worth it.
BrenB Posted
Upgrade from the Garmin Vivoactive and it feels like a big one for me. The screen looks amazing and the battery life is 10/10. Would highly recommend if needing the same type of upgrade.
MohanM Posted
I like the built-in GPS feature which provides accurate tracking of distance, pace, and route while running. It has a great battery life compared to my previous smart watches. It is also light weight which makes it more comfortable to wear throughout the day. Worth the Price!!
Patrick Posted
Very easy to use. Not a busy screen like the apple watch. I like this watch very much. Battery lasts about 13-14 days from full down to like 7%.
PLPL Posted
I should have dumped my Fitbit for a Garmin years ago. The forerunner 265 does everything great. So much information! Some reviews knock the maps and route planning… I find what it does sufficient. The GPS works perfectly every time. The battery life is incredible. I wear all day and night and I’m getting 9/10 days out of a charge. The display is clear and easy to see in all lighting. Even for someone who needs readers! HIGHLY RECOMMENDED!
Snakeplant Posted
Prior apple watch user here. This one does everything the apple watch did but doesnt die after 24 hours. In fact I charge watch once a week! Its light and easy to sleep with for those who wish to track their sleep.
GabrielR Posted
Great product. Easy to use. GPS so accurate. Better than other running watches
TOMASZK Posted
This watch is amazing. I use it all the time and the battery life is great. It is very good and accurate at tracking and I am very happy with this purchase functionality is also very good. This watch is amazing. I use it all the time and the battery life is great. It is very good and accurate at tracking and I am very happy with this purchase functionality is also very good.
BRITTANYL Posted
Went from Apple Watch to Garmin. Big upgrade! Battery life is unbeatable. Features are great. I’m never going back !
CONNYH Posted
I love everything about this watch. Recently got into running and it helps with tracking my runs and suggesting training towards your goal! I also really enjoy tracking my sleep and heart rate!
BenJ Posted
The watch is very accurate with great battery and lightweight.
GiselleF Posted
The Garmin Forerunner 265 is a great fitness watch for everyday wear. It’s lightweight, has excellent battery life, and works perfectly for tracking running and bodybuilding workouts. Overall, it’s a reliable and comfortable watch that makes staying active easy.
GKei Posted
I’ve been extremely impressed with the Forerunner 265. The AMOLED display is bright and easy to read even in direct sunlight, GPS tracking is accurate, and battery life easily lasts through multiple long runs and workouts. Great tool for serious training.
JLGC Posted
Has most features in a light plastic package, nothing very premium but mostly get the job done approach here
GIOVANNI Posted
Watch life goes almost to a month. You can sync your music from Spotify without having your phone while going on runs or any physical activity.
BTBTBT Posted
battery life lasts for about 7 days on always display mode. Great at tracking sleep and exercise (compared to Apple Watch). Very comfortable to wear. Older version but would recommend.
This review is from Garmin - Forerunner 265 GPS Smartwatch 46 mm Fiber-Reinforced polymer - Black - (2023)