Is the Garmin Forerunner 965 Worth It in 2026?
Quick Verdict:
Maybe—while the Garmin Forerunner 965 offers premium features, its price might not suit every budget.
Is Garmin Forerunner 965 worth it? Is the Garmin Forerunner 965 worth it in 2026? For avid runners and fitness enthusiasts, this flagship smartwatch delivers advanced metrics and a high-resolution display that could justify its price. However, for casual users or those on a tighter budget, the investment may not seem as appealing. PageBen aims to provide a clear perspective on whether this device offers value for your money. The Forerunner 965 is packed with features like full-color maps and a remarkable 23-day battery life, making it a strong contender in the competitive smartwatch market. Yet, its older sensors and lack of voice capabilities may deter some potential buyers. As consumers evaluate their options, understanding the true value of the Forerunner 965 will be essential in deciding if it’s the right fit for their needs.
💰 Is the Price Justified?
The Garmin Forerunner 965 offers a high-resolution 1.4" AMOLED display that enhances usability with bright and clear visuals, particularly for navigation. This feature stands out in a market where many competitors struggle to match both display quality and battery efficiency. With up to 23 days of battery life in smartwatch mode, it significantly outperforms many rivals, making it a solid investment for users who value longevity.
In terms of performance, the Forerunner 965 includes advanced training metrics, like Training Readiness, which sets it apart from lower-tier models. This capability allows serious athletes to gauge their preparedness for workouts, potentially improving training outcomes. However, while it offers great functionality, the price may feel steep for those who don’t regularly utilize these features.
The inclusion of Preloaded TopoActive Maps and advanced GPS capabilities ensures that users have reliable navigation during outdoor activities, a critical feature for runners and hikers. This additional functionality enhances its value proposition. However, buyers should weigh whether they will use these features regularly against the cost of the device.
Lastly, while the Forerunner 965 is a premium product, consumers should recognize that it lacks some features present in newer competitors, such as ECG capabilities. This could impact its desirability among tech-savvy users looking for the latest in health monitoring. Thus, the price might be justified for dedicated users, but less so for those who may not need the advanced features offered.
✓ 3 Reasons to Buy
1. Exceptional Display and Battery Life
The Forerunner 965 features a 1.4" AMOLED display, providing vibrant visuals that enhance usability for navigation and data tracking. This is especially beneficial for outdoor activities, where clear visibility is crucial. Coupled with an impressive 23-day battery life, it ensures that users can rely on their smartwatch for extended periods without frequent recharging, making it ideal for long training sessions or outdoor adventures.
This combination of display quality and battery longevity not only improves the user experience but also enhances overall performance during workouts, making it a valuable investment for serious athletes. The ability to see maps and metrics clearly, without worrying about battery depletion, is a significant advantage over many competitors in the same price range.
2. Advanced Training Metrics
With features like Training Readiness and Morning Report, the Forerunner 965 offers insights that can help users optimize their training regimens. These advanced metrics allow users to assess their physical readiness before workouts, which can lead to more effective training sessions and improved performance. This is particularly useful for competitive athletes who are focused on maximizing their training efficiency.
Additionally, the device supports various workout modes, including triathlon and ultra run, catering to a wide range of fitness activities. This versatility ensures that users can track and enhance their performance across multiple disciplines, making it a worthwhile investment for those serious about their fitness journey.
3. Durable Construction
The Forerunner 965 is designed for durability, featuring a titanium bezel and Corning Gorilla Glass 3 DX lens. This construction not only adds a premium feel but also enhances its resilience against everyday wear and tear. For active individuals participating in sports or outdoor activities, this durability is a critical factor, ensuring that the watch can withstand harsh conditions without compromising functionality.
Moreover, its 5 ATM water resistance allows users to confidently wear it while swimming or in wet conditions, further enhancing its appeal to athletes. This level of durability justifies the investment for users who prioritize a long-lasting device capable of supporting their active lifestyles.
✗ Reasons to Skip It
Older Sensor Technology
The Forerunner 965 utilizes the older Elevate Gen 4 optical heart rate sensor, which may not provide the most up-to-date tracking features available in newer models. For fitness enthusiasts looking for advanced health metrics, such as ECG monitoring, this limitation could be a dealbreaker. Without these capabilities, users may feel they are missing out on crucial health insights that competitors offer.
This limitation is particularly relevant for those who prioritize comprehensive health tracking in their smartwatch experience. As newer models enter the market with enhanced sensor technology, the Forerunner 965 might not seem like the best choice for users seeking the latest in health monitoring.
Limited Voice Functionality
Another notable limitation is the absence of a built-in microphone and speaker, which restricts the Forerunner 965's capabilities for handling calls or voice commands. This could be a significant drawback for users who expect a fully integrated smartwatch experience, as many competing models now offer these features. Users will need to rely on their smartphones for communication, potentially undermining the convenience that smartwatches are designed to provide.
This lack of functionality may deter tech-savvy consumers who value seamless integration with their devices. For those who primarily use their smartwatch for notifications, the absence of voice interaction could limit its overall effectiveness and appeal.
Technical Analysis
Key Specs at a Glance
The 47mm case size and lightweight design (53g) of the Forerunner 965 enhance comfort during long workouts, making it ideal for runners. Its robust construction with a titanium bezel and Corning Gorilla Glass 3 DX lens adds durability, but it’s essential to note that it uses the older Elevate Gen 4 optical heart rate sensor. This may not cater to consumers seeking the latest health technologies, such as ECG.
Battery life is a standout feature, with up to 31 hours in GPS-only mode and 19 hours with all-systems GNSS. This longevity is particularly appealing to endurance athletes who might spend extended periods outdoors without access to charging. The device’s ability to last through multiple day-long activities sets it apart, but should be evaluated against competitors that might offer better health tracking features.
The AMOLED display supports an always-on mode, ensuring users can easily glance at metrics without needing to wake the watch. The 454 x 454 pixel resolution ensures clarity, especially in outdoor conditions. Given the importance of display quality in smartwatches, the Forerunner 965 holds its own against competitors. However, some newer models may deliver enhanced brightness or visibility under direct sunlight.
Connectivity options, including Bluetooth, ANT+, and Wi-Fi, allow for versatile pairing with other devices, enhancing its functionality for fitness tracking and data sharing. However, the lack of built-in microphone and speaker may limit its appeal for those who prefer hands-free operation for calls or voice notes, a feature seen in some competing models.
With 32GB of storage, the Forerunner 965 supports offline music playback, making it a well-rounded choice for workouts without the need for a phone. Yet, this feature might not be fully utilized by casual users who prefer streaming music directly from their phones, questioning the investment for those individuals.
Compare with similar options:
Who Is This For?
The Garmin Forerunner 965 is best suited for serious athletes and fitness enthusiasts who require advanced training metrics and durable construction in a smartwatch. With its extensive range of workout modes and features like Training Readiness, it caters to individuals who are committed to optimizing their training and improving performance.
However, casual users or those on a tighter budget may find this device less appealing due to its premium price and features that might go underutilized. Individuals looking for basic fitness tracking without the need for advanced metrics could benefit from more affordable options on the market.
Final Decision: Should You Buy It?
✓ Buy if:
- •You are a serious athlete needing advanced training metrics.
- •You prioritize long battery life and AMOLED display quality.
- •You seek a durable smartwatch for outdoor activities.
✗ Skip if:
- •You want the latest health monitoring features like ECG.
- •You prefer a smartwatch with built-in voice capabilities.
In summary, while the Garmin Forerunner 965 offers exceptional features for serious athletes, its value may not justify the price for every consumer. The absence of certain advanced features and voice functionality could sway potential buyers towards more modern alternatives. For those interested in the Forerunner 965, it's worth checking current pricing on PageBen to determine if it fits your budget and needs.