Garmin Forerunner 965 Review: Exceptional Fitness Tracker
Is the Garmin Forerunner 965 the ultimate fitness tracker you’ve been searching for, or just another overhyped gadget? The Garmin Forerunner 965 is a powerhouse of a fitness tracker, designed to cater to both mainstream users and hardcore athletes. However, some may find its extensive features overwhelming, especially if they’re not fully utilized.
Garmin Forerunner 965
The Garmin Forerunner 965 is a high-end GPS running and triathlon smartwatch that features a vibrant AMOLED display, advanced performance metrics, and multi-band GPS for precise tracking. It offers personalized coaching, training insights, and health monitoring tools, making it perfect for serious athletes aiming to optimize their training and performance.
Pros:Cons:
Garmin Forerunner 965 Design and Build Quality
The Garmin Forerunner 965 stands out with its sleek and modern design. The watch features a 1.4-inch AMOLED display with a resolution of 454 x 454 pixels, providing sharp and vibrant visuals. The watch body has a diameter of 47.5 mm and is 14.4 mm thick, making it substantial yet comfortable to wear.
The display is protected by Corning Gorilla Glass 3.0, ensuring durability against scratches and impacts. The titanium bezel adds a premium touch while contributing to the overall lightweight feel, with the watch weighing just 55 grams, including the band.
The Forerunner 965 offers interchangeable silicone straps available in white, black, and green, allowing users to personalize the look to match their style. The wristband is comfortable for extended wear, whether during intense workouts or daily activities. The overall aesthetic of the watch is designed to appeal to both fitness enthusiasts and those who want a stylish accessory.
- 1.4-inch AMOLED display with 454 x 454 pixel resolution
- Titanium bezel and Corning Gorilla Glass 3.0 lens
- 47.5 mm diameter and 14.4 mm thickness
- Interchangeable silicone straps in white, black, and green
- Weighs 55 grams with the watch band
The build quality of the Garmin Forerunner 965 is exceptional, combining durability with a lightweight design. The use of high-quality materials such as titanium and Gorilla Glass ensures that the watch can withstand rigorous use while maintaining a premium appearance. The interchangeable straps add versatility, making this a well-rounded choice for anyone looking for a robust and stylish fitness tracker.
Garmin Forerunner 965 Features and Specifications
The Garmin Forerunner 965 is packed with advanced features designed to enhance fitness tracking and provide comprehensive health data. A standout feature is the blood oxygen monitoring (Vo2 Max), which helps users understand their oxygen consumption during activities.
The multisport mode allows athletes to switch between different sports seamlessly, making it ideal for triathletes. Sleep monitoring provides insights into sleep patterns and quality, while the cadence sensor tracks steps per minute, crucial for optimizing running performance.
Pre-loaded mapping with SATIQ™ and predefined workout profiles make navigation and training more efficient. This feature is particularly useful for outdoor enthusiasts who need accurate maps and routes. The watch supports over 80 activities, including swimming, cycling, strength training, HIIT, and pilates. This extensive range of supported activities ensures that users can track nearly any form of exercise they choose.
Equipped with Garmin’s multi-band GPS and the Elevate 4.0 Optical heart rate monitor, the Forerunner 965 offers precise tracking of distance, pace, and heart rate. The multi-band GPS ensures accurate location tracking even in challenging environments, such as dense urban areas or forests. The Elevate 4.0 Optical heart rate monitor provides real-time heart rate data, allowing users to monitor their cardiovascular health effectively.
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Blood Oxygen Monitoring (Vo2 Max) | Measures oxygen consumption during activities |
| Multisport Mode | Seamlessly switch between different sports |
| Sleep Monitoring | Tracks sleep patterns and quality |
| Cadence Sensor | Monitors steps per minute |
| Pre-loaded Mapping with SATIQ™ | Provides accurate maps and routes |
| Supports Over 80 Activities | Includes swimming, cycling, strength training, and more |
| Multi-band GPS | Ensures precise location tracking |
| Elevate 4.0 Optical Heart Rate Monitor | Provides real-time heart rate data |
Garmin Forerunner 965 Performance and Accuracy
The Garmin Forerunner 965 excels in capturing fitness data with remarkable precision. It reliably tracks metrics such as distance, speed, pace, and GPS routes. Users consistently report that the data accuracy enhances their training sessions by providing actionable insights. Whether you’re running a marathon or going for a casual jog, the Forerunner 965 ensures that you have precise and reliable data to assess your performance.
GPS Data
GPS accuracy is a standout feature of the Forerunner 965. The multi-band GPS technology ensures that your location is tracked accurately, even in challenging environments like dense urban areas or heavily wooded trails. This makes it an excellent choice for outdoor enthusiasts who require reliable navigation. The GPS system quickly locks onto satellites, reducing the time you need to wait before starting your workout.
Heart Rate Data
When it comes to heart rate accuracy, the Forerunner 965 performs well, although some variability can occur based on individual factors such as skin color and hair density. The Elevate 4.0 Optical heart rate monitor provides real-time data, which is crucial for monitoring cardiovascular health during various activities. While it is generally accurate, some users may experience minor discrepancies, particularly during high-intensity workouts.
Garmin Forerunner 965 Battery Life and Charging
The Garmin Forerunner 965 offers impressive battery life, making it a reliable companion for extended use. In smartwatch mode, the battery can last up to 23 days, allowing users to go nearly a month without needing to recharge. For those using the watch’s GPS functionality, the Forerunner 965 provides up to 22 hours of continuous tracking. This extended battery life is particularly beneficial for long-distance runners and outdoor enthusiasts who require dependable performance over extended periods.
When using onboard music capabilities alongside GPS, the battery life decreases to around 9.5 hours. While this reduction is expected due to the additional power consumption, it still offers ample duration for most workout sessions. The Forerunner 965 retains its standard 4-pin charging port but now includes a USB-C outlet on the charging cable, offering more versatility and convenience for users who need to recharge on the go.
- Up to 23 days of battery life in smartwatch mode
- Up to 22 hours of battery life in GPS mode
- Around 9.5 hours of battery life with GPS and music playback
- 4-pin charging port retained
- USB-C outlet for charging
The battery life and charging capabilities of the Garmin Forerunner 965 are designed to cater to a variety of user needs. Whether you’re on a multi-day hiking trip or simply using the watch for daily fitness tracking, the extended battery life ensures that you won’t be left without power. The inclusion of a USB-C outlet adds a modern touch, making recharging straightforward and efficient.
Garmin Forerunner 965 User Experience and Interface
The Garmin Forerunner 965 offers a generally positive user experience, largely due to its intuitive navigation and user-friendly interface.
Touch Screen
The watch features a touch screen combined with a five-button configuration, making it easy to operate whether you’re mid-workout or simply checking notifications. The touch screen is responsive, allowing users to swipe through menus and options smoothly. This hybrid control system ensures that even in wet or sweaty conditions, users can rely on the buttons for precise control.
Customize Features
Customization is a key aspect of the user experience. Users can personalize various elements, including Morning Reports, Heart Rate Variability (HRV) metrics, and training readiness scores. These customizable features allow users to tailor the watch to their specific needs and preferences, enhancing its functionality.
Morning Reports offer a quick summary of your sleep and readiness for the day, providing valuable insights right when you wake up. HRV metrics help monitor stress and recovery, giving users a detailed picture of their overall health.
Easy Interface
The interface itself is straightforward and easy to navigate, even for those who may not be tech-savvy. The menus are logically organized, and the touch screen offers quick access to frequently used functions. Notifications are clearly displayed, and the watch can sync with your smartphone for seamless updates. The combination of touch and button controls ensures that navigating through the watch’s features is both efficient and hassle-free.
- Intuitive navigation with a touch screen and five-button configuration
- Customizable Morning Reports and HRV metrics
- User-friendly interface with logically organized menus
- Clear notifications and seamless smartphone sync
Garmin Forerunner 965 Pros and Cons
The Garmin Forerunner 965 excels in several areas, making it a top choice for fitness enthusiasts. One of its standout strengths is the detailed fitness tracking, which includes metrics such as heart rate, Vo2 Max, and sleep monitoring.
Forerunner 965 Pros
This comprehensive data helps users optimize their training and monitor their health effectively. Additionally, the durable build ensures the watch can withstand rigorous use, whether you’re running, swimming, or engaging in high-intensity workouts. The extensive connectivity options, including Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, and ANT+, allow for seamless integration with other fitness devices and apps, enhancing the overall user experience.
- Detailed fitness tracking
- Durable build
- Extensive connectivity options
Forerunner 965 Cons
Despite its many advantages, the Forerunner 965 does have some drawbacks. The size of the watch, with a 47.5 mm diameter and 14.4 mm thickness, can be cumbersome for some users, especially those with smaller wrists. This may affect comfort during prolonged wear.
The higher price point, retailing at $599, can be a significant investment, which may not be justifiable for casual users or those on a budget. These factors are important to consider when evaluating the overall value of the Forerunner 965.
- Potentially cumbersome size for some users
- Higher price point
Garmin Forerunner 965 Comparison with Other Models
Garmin Forerunner 965 vs Forerunner 955
The Garmin Forerunner 965 and Forerunner 955 both cater to serious athletes, yet they offer distinct features. The most noticeable difference is the display. The Forerunner 965 boasts a 1.4-inch AMOLED display, providing vibrant colors and sharp visuals, while the Forerunner 955 features a transflective memory-in-pixel (MIP) display, which is more power-efficient but less visually impressive.
Battery life is another area where the 965 excels. It can last up to 23 days in smartwatch mode, compared to the 955’s 15 days. In GPS mode, the 965 offers up to 22 hours, while the 955 provides 42 hours, though this can vary with usage conditions and settings. The Forerunner 965 also includes additional features such as an improved multi-band GPS and advanced sleep tracking capabilities, which are not as refined in the 955.
Garmin Forerunner 965 vs Fenix 7
When comparing the Forerunner 965 to the Fenix 7, several key points emerge. Both watches feature AMOLED displays, though the Fenix 7 offers a larger screen size option. The Fenix 7 is known for its rugged durability, featuring a more robust build with options for a sapphire crystal lens and titanium or steel bezels, making it suitable for extreme conditions. This durability comes at a higher price point, with the Fenix 7 typically costing more than the Forerunner 965.
The Fenix 7 also includes additional navigational features, such as advanced topo maps and ski maps, catering to outdoor enthusiasts and adventurers. Battery life in the Fenix 7 is comparable to the Forerunner 965, though the exact duration can vary based on the model and usage. The Fenix 7’s extensive feature set and durable design make it ideal for users who need a watch that can handle a variety of environments and activities.
| Feature | Forerunner 965 | Forerunner 955 | Fenix 7 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Display | 1.4-inch AMOLED | Transflective MIP | AMOLED (Larger options) |
| Battery Life (Smartwatch Mode) | Up to 23 days | Up to 15 days | Varies by model |
| Battery Life (GPS Mode) | Up to 22 hours | Up to 42 hours | Varies by model |
| Build Quality | Titanium bezel, Corning Gorilla Glass 3.0 | Fiber-reinforced polymer | Titanium/Steel bezel, Sapphire crystal option |
| Price | $$$ | $$ | $$$$ |
Garmin Forerunner 965 Price and Value for Money
The Garmin Forerunner 965 is priced at $599, positioning it in the premium segment of fitness trackers. This price point reflects the advanced features and robust performance the watch offers. Users seeking a high-quality fitness tracker will find that the Forerunner 965 provides a comprehensive suite of tools for monitoring and improving their health and fitness.
Customer reviews on Amazon rate the Forerunner 965 at 4.6 out of 5 from 447 reviews, indicating high satisfaction among users. The advanced features, such as blood oxygen monitoring, multi-band GPS, and extensive activity support, contribute significantly to its value. These features ensure that users are equipped with precise and actionable data, enhancing their training and overall health monitoring experience.
The value for money of the Garmin Forerunner 965 is highlighted by its durability and build quality. The titanium bezel and Corning Gorilla Glass 3.0 lens ensure that the watch can withstand rigorous use. Additionally, the customizable interface and extensive connectivity options make it a versatile choice for various activities and environments.
- Advanced features like blood oxygen monitoring and multi-band GPS
- High customer satisfaction with a 4.6 out of 5 rating from 447 reviews
- Durable build with titanium bezel and Corning Gorilla Glass 3.0
- Versatile connectivity options and customizable interface
In summary, the Garmin Forerunner 965 offers excellent value for money for those willing to invest in a premium fitness tracker. Its advanced features, robust build quality, and high user satisfaction make it a standout choice in the market.
User Reviews and Testimonials for Garmin Forerunner 965
Forerunner 965 Reviews – Positive
The Garmin Forerunner 965 has garnered positive reviews from users, boasting an impressive rating of 4.6 out of 5 from 447 reviews on Amazon. This high rating reflects the overall satisfaction of customers with the watch’s performance and features.
Users often praise the detailed fitness tracking capabilities, which include metrics such as heart rate, Vo2 Max, and sleep monitoring, helping them optimize their workouts and monitor their health effectively. The robust build quality is another frequently mentioned positive aspect, with many users appreciating the durability of the titanium bezel and Corning Gorilla Glass 3.0 lens.
Positive feedback highlights the Forerunner 965’s extensive connectivity options, including Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, and ANT+, allowing seamless integration with other devices and apps. Users also appreciate the watch’s long battery life, which can last up to 23 days in smartwatch mode. This extended battery life is particularly beneficial for those who engage in long-distance activities or prefer not to charge their devices frequently.
- Detailed fitness tracking
- Robust build quality
- Extensive connectivity options
Forerunner 965 Reviews – Negative
Despite the overwhelming positive feedback, some users have reported issues with the Garmin Connect interface. Complaints often center around syncing problems and occasional glitches that impact the user experience.
These issues, while not widespread, have been a point of frustration for a segment of users who rely on the app for data analysis and integration with other fitness platforms. Addressing these concerns could enhance the overall user experience and satisfaction further.
- Issues with the Garmin Connect interface
- Syncing problems
- Occasional glitches
Final Words
From its sleek design and build quality to its impressive feature set and robust performance, the Garmin Forerunner 965 stands out as a leading choice for athletes and fitness enthusiasts.
Advanced capabilities like blood oxygen monitoring and multi-band GPS make it highly functional, while the extended battery life and intuitive user interface enhance usability.
Considering the combination of features, durability, and user satisfaction, the Garmin Forerunner 965 delivers excellent value for its price.
Ultimately, this Garmin Forerunner 965 review showcases why it remains a top contender in the fitness tracker market.
FAQ
When is the Garmin Forerunner 965 release date?
The Garmin Forerunner 965 was released in the spring of 2023.
What is the price of the Garmin Forerunner 965?
The retail price of the Garmin Forerunner 965 is $599.
Is the Garmin Forerunner 965 easy to use?
The Garmin Forerunner 965 features an intuitive interface with a touch screen and a five-button configuration, making it user-friendly.
Does the Garmin Forerunner 965 have a touch screen?
Yes, the Garmin Forerunner 965 has a touch screen.
Does the Forerunner 965 have maps?
Yes, the Forerunner 965 includes pre-loaded mapping with SATIQ™ and predefined workout profiles.
What is the battery life of the Garmin Forerunner 965?
In smartwatch mode, battery life lasts up to 23 days. In GPS mode, it’s up to 22 hours, or around 9.5 hours with GPS and music.
What is the difference between Garmin 965 and 265?
The Forerunner 965 features an AMOLED display and better battery life. The Forerunner 265 has a more basic screen and fewer features.
How does the Forerunner 965 compare to the Forerunner 955?
The Forerunner 965 includes an AMOLED display and improved battery life, whereas the 955 has a less advanced display and shorter battery life.
How does the Forerunner 965 compare to the Fenix 7?
The Fenix 7 offers similar features at a higher price point and targets more advanced users, whereas the Forerunner 965 provides a more cost-effective option with an AMOLED display.
Is the Garmin Forerunner 965 on sale?
Check Garmin’s official website or authorized retailers for any available sales or discounts on the Forerunner 965.
What are the key features of the Garmin Forerunner 965?
The watch includes advanced features like blood oxygen monitoring, multisport mode, sleep tracking, and a cadence sensor. It supports over 80 activities and has a multi-band GPS and an optical heart rate monitor.