Garmin Forerunner 965 Running Smartwatch

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86%
94%
GPS Accuracy
92%
Battery Life (Smartwatch Mode)
90%
Training Metrics & Insights
88%
Comfort & Design
87%
Display Quality
85%
Multisport Profile Customization
82%
Value for Money
79%
Battery Life (GPS Mode)
80%
App Integration & Syncing
77%
Price vs Features
84%
Durability
89%
Recovery Insights
More

Overview

The Garmin Forerunner 965 Running Smartwatch is a high-performance GPS smartwatch designed to meet the needs of serious athletes. With its AMOLED touchscreen and traditional button controls, it offers a seamless interface for easy navigation. The titanium bezel ensures both durability and a lightweight design, making it ideal for long training sessions. With up to 23 days of battery life in smartwatch mode and 31 hours in GPS mode, this fitness tracker is built for extended use without constant recharging, making it a reliable companion for athletes pushing their limits.

Features & Benefits

The Forerunner 965 delivers advanced features to support a wide range of fitness activities. It includes multi-band GPS for precise location tracking, ensuring athletes can confidently track their progress even in challenging environments. The personalized daily workout suggestions adapt to your performance, helping you train efficiently. Built-in full-color maps with turn-by-turn directions make navigation easier, while advanced training metrics and recovery insights allow users to optimize their performance. Whether you're a runner or triathlete, its customizable multisport profiles and heart rate variability tracking provide valuable data for improvement.

Best For

This Garmin smartwatch is particularly suited for athletes who demand the best in training data and performance tracking. It's ideal for serious runners, endurance athletes, and triathletes who need reliable data on their training sessions and recovery. The personalized workout plans are great for those who want to push their limits while avoiding overtraining. With long battery life and advanced features, this smartwatch is perfect for athletes who spend long hours outdoors, looking for a device that can keep up with their rigorous activities and multisport needs.

User Feedback

Users have praised the Forerunner 965 for its accurate GPS tracking and mapping capabilities, which provide reliable performance during outdoor activities. Many appreciate the detailed recovery insights and personalized training plans, which help them train smarter and avoid burnout. However, some users have pointed out the high price point, especially for casual users who may not need all the advanced features. On the positive side, feedback about the smartwatch’s comfort and sleek design is overwhelmingly favorable, with many highlighting its long battery life as a key benefit for outdoor enthusiasts.

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Pros

  • This device excels in GPS accuracy, making it ideal for runners and athletes who rely on precise location tracking.
  • Battery life is impressive, offering up to 23 days in smartwatch mode, making it perfect for long-term wear without frequent recharges.
  • The AMOLED display is bright and clear, providing excellent readability even under direct sunlight.
  • Its titanium bezel offers a durable yet lightweight design, balancing toughness with comfort for everyday wear.
  • The customizable multisport profiles are a standout feature, allowing athletes to tailor settings for different activities.
  • Users appreciate the detailed training metrics and recovery insights, making it a great tool for serious endurance athletes.

Cons

  • The high price point may be a deterrent for casual users who don't require advanced training features or multisport capabilities.
  • The device may feel bulky to individuals with smaller wrists, potentially impacting comfort during extended wear.
  • Some users report that the interface can be overwhelming, especially for those new to advanced fitness tracking features.
  • GPS performance can be affected by dense tree cover or challenging weather conditions, which may disrupt accurate tracking.
  • Not everyone finds the button-based navigation as intuitive as a fully touchscreen interface, especially during active workouts.
  • While the smartwatch offers a lot of features, the setup process can be time-consuming and might frustrate new users.

Ratings

After analyzing verified user reviews from a variety of platforms and languages, we’ve gathered an in-depth look at the Garmin Forerunner 965 Running Smartwatch. The ratings reflect real-world experiences, filtered to exclude spam, bot-driven, and off-topic feedback. Both the standout features and common concerns from users across different regions have been considered, offering a balanced view of the product’s performance and value. The scores reflect a range of strengths and some areas for improvement, helping potential buyers make an informed decision based on global feedback.

GPS Accuracy
94%
Many users highlight the exceptional GPS tracking accuracy of this smartwatch, especially during outdoor activities like running and cycling. The multi-band GPS feature ensures precise location tracking, even in challenging environments such as forests or urban areas with tall buildings.
A few users noted that GPS accuracy can be affected by certain settings, such as in low-power modes. Additionally, some felt that in dense wooded areas, there was a slight delay in connection when compared to more traditional GPS devices.
Battery Life (Smartwatch Mode)
92%
The impressive battery life in smartwatch mode is a major selling point for athletes who require long-lasting performance. Users report that the device can last up to 23 days, making it perfect for extended wear without worrying about frequent recharging, even during long training periods or multi-day adventures.
Some buyers feel that the battery life in smartwatch mode might not be as long as advertised under certain usage conditions, especially when constantly tracking activities or using additional features like heart rate monitoring.
Training Metrics & Insights
90%
Users are highly satisfied with the detailed training metrics provided by this device. Features like personalized daily workout suggestions and advanced recovery insights allow athletes to tailor their training plans. The metrics are praised for being informative, helping users track performance improvements over time.
Some users mentioned that while the training data is comprehensive, it may be overwhelming for casual athletes who don’t need such detailed statistics. Additionally, a few noted that syncing with third-party apps for data export could be more seamless.
Comfort & Design
88%
The lightweight titanium bezel and the smooth, ergonomic design make this smartwatch comfortable for all-day wear. Many users appreciate the durability combined with a sleek aesthetic, ensuring that the watch fits well even during intense workouts or long runs.
A few users found the watch face slightly large for smaller wrists, making it less comfortable for some. Additionally, while the design is durable, some felt it lacked enough customization options in terms of strap materials or colors.
Display Quality
87%
The AMOLED touchscreen display is praised for its vibrant colors and excellent visibility, even in bright sunlight. Users also enjoy the responsiveness of the touchscreen combined with traditional button controls, offering flexibility depending on the situation.
Some users found the screen to be a bit too reflective under certain lighting conditions, which can make it harder to read in direct sunlight. A few also mentioned that the touchscreen can occasionally be less responsive when wet from sweat or rain.
Multisport Profile Customization
85%
The ability to customize multisport profiles makes this device ideal for triathletes and those who engage in multiple types of workouts. The device offers a broad range of activity settings, ensuring that each sport, whether swimming, cycling, or running, gets tracked with the right metrics.
Some users felt the customization options were a bit too complex for beginners and could have been simplified. There were also occasional reports of users struggling to switch profiles smoothly during transitions between activities.
Value for Money
82%
18%
Many users believe this smartwatch offers strong value considering its high-end features, particularly for athletes who require accurate tracking and detailed training insights. The combination of performance, battery life, and customization justifies the price for dedicated athletes.
A few buyers felt the price was on the higher end, especially for casual users who don’t need the extensive multisport features. Some also noted that alternatives with fewer features were available at lower prices, making it harder to justify for non-athletes.
Battery Life (GPS Mode)
79%
21%
Users who engage in long-distance outdoor activities like marathons and hikes have praised the up-to-31-hour battery life in GPS mode, which is sufficient for most training sessions or events. It offers peace of mind for those needing a reliable tracker during extended activities.
Several users mentioned that the battery life in GPS mode can drain faster when using additional features like heart rate monitoring or full-color maps. There were also complaints that the device could not last for multi-day adventures, requiring a recharge in the middle of longer trips.
App Integration & Syncing
80%
20%
The app integration is generally praised for syncing data seamlessly with third-party platforms like Strava and TrainingPeaks, allowing users to analyze their progress in detail. Many found the syncing process quick and reliable, improving the overall user experience.
Some users experienced syncing issues between the device and the app, particularly with syncing training logs and metrics. A few also mentioned that the Garmin Connect app could be more intuitive and user-friendly.
Price vs Features
77%
23%
For users who prioritize high-end features like multisport tracking, personalized workout plans, and advanced recovery insights, this device is seen as offering substantial value. The inclusion of full-color maps and customizable profiles adds significant functionality.
Despite its advanced features, many users feel that the price point is not justified unless you're an athlete requiring all of the offered features. Casual users or those with simpler needs may find better value in less expensive alternatives.
Durability
84%
The durability of this fitness tracker is consistently praised, with users noting that it holds up well even in demanding environments. The titanium bezel and rugged construction help the watch withstand the wear and tear of daily workouts, outdoor activities, and even water sports.
Some users found that the device could scratch more easily than expected, especially on the display. While the construction is sturdy, a few noted that the watch could feel a bit bulky on smaller wrists.
Recovery Insights
89%
The personalized recovery insights and training readiness scores are frequently highlighted as standout features. Athletes love how these features help them avoid overtraining and optimize performance based on real-time data, providing invaluable support for their training plans.
Although useful, some users felt the recovery insights could be more detailed or refined, particularly for athletes with specific training goals. A few also mentioned that the readiness score could be more accurate during high-intensity workouts.

Suitable for:

The Garmin Forerunner 965 Running Smartwatch is an excellent choice for serious athletes, particularly runners and triathletes, who require precise GPS tracking and detailed training metrics. Users who prioritize performance insights, such as personalized workout suggestions, recovery scores, and VO2 Max tracking, will find this device invaluable. With its long-lasting battery life—up to 23 days in smartwatch mode and 31 hours in GPS mode—it’s well-suited for those who need reliable data tracking during long workouts or multi-day events. This smartwatch is also ideal for endurance athletes looking to optimize their training with advanced features like body battery monitoring and recovery insights, providing critical data for peak performance over time.

Not suitable for:

The Garmin Forerunner 965 Running Smartwatch may not be the best option for casual users or those on a tight budget. Its high price point and advanced features make it overkill for individuals who don’t need in-depth training data or multisport tracking. For those looking for a simpler, more affordable fitness tracker or smartwatch, this device may feel too complex and unnecessary. Additionally, users who prefer smaller or more lightweight designs might find it bulky, especially if they have smaller wrists. Those not interested in detailed metrics or heavy customization might also find the device’s advanced functions overwhelming.

Specifications

  • Display: 1.4-inch AMOLED touchscreen display with vibrant colors and high resolution.
  • Battery Life: Up to 23 days of battery life in smartwatch mode and up to 31 hours in GPS mode.
  • Build: Lightweight and durable titanium bezel design, built for athletes and outdoor activities.
  • GPS: Multi-band GPS for precise location tracking, even in challenging environments.
  • Maps: Built-in full-color maps with turn-by-turn navigation for easier outdoor exploration.
  • Storage: 32GB of internal storage, allowing for music, maps, and other data storage.
  • Heart Rate Monitoring: Wrist-based heart rate monitor for continuous monitoring during workouts and daily activities.
  • Training Metrics: Advanced training metrics including VO2 Max, HRV monitoring, and recovery insights.
  • Customization: Customizable multisport profiles for various activities like running, cycling, and swimming.
  • Sleep Monitoring: Tracks sleep quality and provides a sleep score based on duration and stages.
  • Water Resistance: 5 ATM water resistance rating, making it suitable for swimming and water-based activities.
  • Women’s Health Tracking: Features dedicated tracking for menstrual cycles and pregnancy symptoms.
  • Notifications: Supports smart notifications, including calls, messages, and app alerts from your smartphone.
  • Weight: Weighs approximately 49 grams, offering a light and comfortable fit for extended wear.
  • Connectivity: Supports Bluetooth, ANT+, and Wi-Fi for seamless connectivity with apps and accessories.
  • Compatibility: Compatible with the Garmin Connect app and various third-party fitness apps like Strava.

FAQ

To set up the Garmin Forerunner 965 Running Smartwatch, first charge it fully. Then, download the Garmin Connect app on your smartphone, create an account, and follow the on-screen instructions to sync your watch with your phone. You can customize your settings, including preferred activities, notifications, and more through the app.

The Garmin Forerunner 965 Running Smartwatch offers up to 23 days of battery life in smartwatch mode and up to 31 hours in GPS mode. This makes it suitable for extended outdoor activities or long-term wear without frequent recharging, providing ample time between charges even for intensive usage.

Yes, this smartwatch is water-resistant and can be used for swimming and other water activities. It is rated with a 5 ATM water resistance, which means it can withstand water depths of up to 50 meters, making it suitable for swimming, diving, and other wet conditions.

Yes, the device includes a wrist-based heart rate monitor that tracks your heart rate throughout the day and during exercise. Additionally, it offers advanced metrics like HRV (Heart Rate Variability) and VO2 Max, providing deeper insights into your cardiovascular health.

The GPS tracking on this smartwatch is highly accurate, thanks to its multi-band GPS technology. This helps provide precise location data, even in challenging environments like dense forests or urban areas with tall buildings, ensuring reliable tracking of your runs, rides, or outdoor activities.

Yes, this device offers customizable multisport profiles, allowing you to tailor the settings to suit various activities such as running, cycling, swimming, or triathlons. You can adjust the data fields and features for each sport, providing a more personalized experience for your training needs.

The Garmin Forerunner 965 offers recovery insights based on your training data, including a training readiness score, recovery time recommendations, and body battery energy monitoring. These insights help athletes understand when to push harder or when to rest, optimizing performance and avoiding overtraining.

Yes, the Garmin Forerunner 965 Running Smartwatch is compatible with many third-party fitness apps, including Strava, MyFitnessPal, and more. You can sync your data across platforms to track your fitness journey and use the smartwatch as part of your broader health and training ecosystem.

If you experience poor GPS performance, try to ensure you're in an area with a clear line of sight to the sky, as dense forests, tall buildings, or heavy cloud cover can impact GPS accuracy. You can also update the device’s firmware through the Garmin Connect app, as updates can improve performance in certain conditions.

Yes, once connected to your smartphone, you can receive notifications such as text messages, calls, emails, and app alerts directly on the Garmin Forerunner 965. You can also customize which notifications you want to receive, making it easy to stay informed during your workouts.