@@hdmedia7404 - His wife Bobby is awesome. And she is fast. She is probably up the trail a little ways waiting on Ray. I don't know about her drone flying abilities. 🤔
I agree with you about the number of models. I'm in a state of decision paralysis about getting a new one. I would love for them to cut it down to a manageable set.
Thank you ever so much for this in depth review. I remember you when choosing my first cycle computer. Fast forward, for this nearly 82 year old, who has lost his mind & taken up running! Never run in my life, but yesterday, over here in the UK, completed my first 5k parkrun. Expensive Hoka trainers arriving this week & trying to decide which running watch to buy. Might go with the Forerunner 165 as a starter.
I think I'm gonna buy this. This cleans up a lot of the problems with Garmin's entry level line, albeit for a price. For a while their cheaper watches didn't have Garmin Pay for example. My Venu 2 is OK but I like this thing's fitness focus.
Yeah it is easy to get lost in the options. I don't know why some watches offer triathlon options while others with generally better features don't. Forerunners don't offer features for wheelchair users, whereas the vivoactive has them. I wish Garmin would make this more simple. The compare function on their website is not a nice feature, it is a must to use if you don't like to make buying decisions which you'll regret later.
@@hornsteinhof7592100% agree. They are even losing customers. I still have a functional vivosport that I quite like but who knows how long it will last and the plastic around the screen is broken so it’s on its last days. I’ve been researching on and off for a new Garmin for months and I never can come up with a decision due to the immense amount of options and how hard is it to compare each
To answer the last comment, this watch is for me! I had a 245, and tried a 55. My vision is not great, so having an AMOLED screen is a huge factor. I just don't dig the style of the vivoactive 5, and the venues are too expensive. I really like the 245, but you can't even increase the backlight on it. Under some conditions it can be hard to read if you're older like myself. Also, at my age, getting out is enough. I don't need the multi-band accuracy etc. that comes with the 255.
I just bought the watch a few days ago, though I’m a hiker, not a runner. I like the design and size a lot, and the battery has been quite good. It has a breadcrumb map, that I like quite a bit. It’s not the Garmin Instinct, but still quite good for hiking. I was looking for a 255 but that is still 100 dollars more, and I found the 165 for 200 bucks at Walmart. My base instinct finally was at its end after almost 5 years, and wanted a smaller replacement. So far, I have zero complaints.
I have a hard time coming up with who this watch is for. The 255 can be found discounted for basically the same price and you get way more metrics, activities and multiband GPS. Maybe for people who don't want to pay for the 265, must have an AMOLED screen, and thus want a Forerunner "light".
As a 245 owner who bought it when it was very cheap and thinks AMOLED looks prettier, but 265 is overpriced for my comparatively minimal use its sort of aimed at me.
Good thing to point out, plenty of those functions that weren’t available back when it launched and you can see people complaining all over the comments, are now available in it via software updates
I’m glad they’ve come out with their watch to be in direct competition with the Coros Pace 3, now they need to come out with one to be in direct competition with the Coros Vertix 2.
I bought a 265 at a very good price about 2 weeks ago, but looking at the capabilities of the 165 model I feel a little deceived. What are you doing, Garmin? I'm looking forward to a detailed comparison, thanks!
I feel sorry for anyone interested in buying a garmin right now. I bought one last year and spent like two months researching the differences between different garmins and then between garmins and other brands. It's confusing as hell for the consumer and creates a huge mental barrier to entry. They desperately need to: a) trim down the number of models, not add new ones. Again, when buying these things It's a right headache to have to learn how all the different garmins compare to each other, let alone other brands. A huge mental barrier to entry. Three forerunners per generation was complicated enough. There's the forerunner, vivoactive, venu etc etc. I say one line for running/athletics, one line emphasising style, and then the fenix and epix watches at the top. Two watches per product line is enough, maybe three for a basic/lite, pro and ultra approach. b) fix the naming schemes (these numbers are nonsensical to someone who is new to the brand and even now I understand it I think they'd be better served with literally anything else. It's not original but we all understand the standard, pro, ultra naming schemes so just go with that.
Especially with the sale prices now. 2024 Black Friday Deals: 165 Music - $250 255 - $250 Vivoactive 5 - $200 So many options, hoping my choice with the 165 music was the right one....
The price should start at $165 and Garmin should advertise it for people who have other Watches (Apple) and want another watch that is Sports Specific. This would persuade those users to most likely upgrade to future Garmin Sports Watches.
in my opinion, Garmin don't need a massif advertise, many athlete know the Garmin quality, Apple watch is only for those who need life style, just life style, they don't thing about many sport available, the endurance of battery etc
For me, Pace 3 is more affordable than 165 in terms of price cus you may get the dual frequency gps and more data fields setup, up to 8 data in one page including import running route for your run with lower price. At this price if you luv the Garmin, 255s or 255 is the best choice. Affordable price you should be looking for Pace 3 for the material Suunto is one of them.
Excellent product insight as always!! Now I’m even more confused as to which watch to buy. Out of this and the Garmin 255 both at a similar price, which one would you go first? Thanks!
I'm conflicted between the vivoactive 5 and the Forerunner 165. On one hand I think that the vivoactive is a much better/more elegant looking watch, and can go better with normal outfits as opposed to the forerunner which looks more sport-specific. At least in my eyes. If the vivoactive had the suggested workouts and pace predictor/pace pro then it would be an easy decision, but i'm not sure if those are dealbreakers or not!
Does this have turn by turn navigation? For example if I hit a fork in the trail will it direct me the correct way? (Before I hit the fork in the road will it have a notification on what way to turn?)
I'm considering this watch, as my Fitbit's AMOLED screen has some pretty horrid burn in. Has that been an issue with recent Garmin AMOLED watches, or have they avoided burn-in issues?
If the 265 or 965 had a flat screen like the 165 for sure I'll buy them, but because of that I'll be holding even if that means years until they release they release a flat screen version sucesor of 265/965
Saw a lot of comment here comparing Garmin to Coros. Not sure about the watch capabilities as I only own Decathlon KIPRUN GPS 500 (it’s a Coros first model) after several years using Fenix 3, the most differences I can say it’s the ecosystem. I’m started using AllTrails app few months ago and it’s only supported Garmin. That’s the pain in the ass since I can’t seem to sync my hike to the app and loose the capability to verify my hike (from the list of mountains there). So it’s all go back to what you need and what you use it for. I’m definitely changing back to Garmin as I’m doing more hike now, just contemplating to choose either this new 165 or Instinct 2 Solar
I hope Garmin release a forerunner 65 with trans reflective screen, track mode, workout support, breadcrumb trails. No need to tell me I slept well, or HRV, or an OLED screen. I imagine the battery eating OLED screens will force consumers into faster upgrade cycles and negatively impact used market as batteries loose capacity. So I can see it makes business sense for Garmin.
I agree with the comments. Garmin have created a series of too many watches where none of them are perfect (for me anyway) making it really hard to pull the trigger. Mine basically doesn't leave my wrist, so giving it more features makes the watch too big to sleep with. But i liked the readiness feature which 165 doesn't have. I miss my 745 more and more now. Shouldn't have left it in a golf cart then.....
Forerunner 955. Get it second hand if you can. That will be best value for money. But if it’s only for following a preloaded route you need maps for then the breadcrumb navigation on 165 will be plenty good.
Agreed. That's what I wanted as well. Ended up getting the 55 which is great, but sheesh I had to turn off all sorts of smart watch things just to make it a running watch lol
@@Dcrainmaker Didn't know that, thanks. It's still a lot of extra to pay for (both $$ and (I suspect) battery), but it's good to know that at least as things stand right now that's an option.
Seems like great value. I was set on the 265 @ $600 Canadian, but now have to consider this for $340 Cdn, 43% cheaper. Pretty big price difference to mostly gain multiband GPS, tri/multisport mode, and training readiness.
The FR255 and FR265 has had a update with the activity profile 'inline skating'. The Fr165 don't have it and will not get it with a update (looks like)... Is there a possibility to customize a profile and is there a differend with profile installed from Garmin?
Q: will the Forerunner 65 pull a course from your "favorites" that you downloaded from you run club and will it give you a verbale and audible turn by turn if you have your bluetooth headset on? I am a back of the pack runner and always get lost in our downtown streets. I am looking for a watch that will give me audible turn by turn directions as I am on a run. thank you
I compared the specs over the course of a few hours, it's possible to figure it out in the end but it is way too complicated and time consuming of a process to be practical
Don’t just compare the spec, compare the sport that you’re into as well. Looks that this 165 support trail run, as well as hike which my wife’s Venu SQ does not have, that’s a huge difference if you’re someone who cares about data and stuff.
43*43mm right? So a ton of metrics as us usual but...empirically NOK? That's why I sold my 955 and got a V2 after two decades of FRs. Not worth the aggravation. Possibly miss the race predictions but Runalyze has them too. Oh and there are great DFs for the V2 like GRun or GRun more with 8 fields.
I just changed to the 265s from the 955. I never used the maps and navigation. So I didn't think I needed the 965. I was hesitant about the AMOLED screen and battery. Boy was I surprised. The bright crisp screen makes the watch feel like a whole new watch. I normally work out early morning. So the sun is down or hardly popping out. So the screen looks great. The times I run in the day or cycle, the screen is still bright and visible. I'm getting a solid week of battery with allot of GPS activities. This 165 sounds like a good idea. Just wish it was a little cheaper to really grab the new runners
Just a quick note, i got the garmin FR165 and you cant export swim workouts to the watch its not compatible. Thanks Garmin! Also using their website looks like the swim 2 can and Venu 2/4 and vivoactive 4. Which i dont trust the Venu and VA4 to be able to do this so i might purchase a swim 2 since they still sell these new at the shops.
@@moritztweber The price! I do not call a nearly 300€ sports watch budget friendly. The FR 55 started below 200€ if I am not mistaken... I am looking for something like that. :)
I find the smaller watches have better heart rate accuracy because they're nice and light, thus keeping them very stable on the wrist during a run or bike session. My Forerunner 55 seems to be more accurate than my Fenix 7 because of this. I have to crank down the strap on the Fenix 7 to the point of being uncomfortable to keep it from bouncing as I run. Very annoying.
I am so confused with all these options. What Garmin watch would you buy, if you were a beginner runner but looking to advance, and a lifelong tennis player? I also do pilates and yoga. I don't really care about a pretty AMOLED screen so much as I don't think I'll constantly look at the watch while I'm running and don't intend to wear it for day to day activities, but just for sport. I'd like to listen to music without bringing my phone on my runs. I remember looking into the FR255 but the release of this watch just confuses me a bit. Thanks to anyone who can help :)
I bought the 945LTE after 6yrs w/ a 230. But they then introduced the 265/965, and I’ve been waiting for a sale because that screen is just too awesome. Now this! The Canadian pricing feels off though. 165 is $339, 265 is $599 (!!!) and 965 is $799.
For what it's worth, DC gave the wrong USD price for the 265. As a fellow Canadian, if you know anyone who has Perkopolis through work benefits, you can get 20% off regular priced Garmin products. Maybe not yet for the 165 but it does work for the 265 and 965, if you're too impatient to wait for them to go on sale since they're some of the newest models.
Garmin is having a laugh with the Amoled tax lol. You have to really love shiny widgets to get this. Nearly four years later the similarly priced 255 is still a much better watch. And it has a screen that somehow still manages to stay on all the time without burning out, with wonderful battery life to boot :)
Not true, my old fenix 5 was way more expensive than my current 965 which has a much better/brighter screen and with way more functionality. Price difference is globally 170 euro. For me (old) the amoled is way way more easier to read. So it just depends on your wishes.
@@StevenafoeWhat bit is not true? Of course the Fenix is more expensive, it's a completely different category. Forerunner vs Forerunner this watch does nothing better than the four year old 255.
@@robhunt8378 lol. (1) Amoled-tax. (2) You really have to love shiny widgets (3) 255 is still a much better watch (4) screen stays on all the time (5) wonderfull battery life. It’s all your opinion. Not mine. So it’s all not true. I have showed there’s no garmin amoled tax in my case. Guess garmin is not laughing anyway. I have showed that you don’t need to love shiny widgets to get this new watch . 255 is a different garmin line, but as the 165 has garmin’s latest stuff, there might be people appreciating the newer watch over the older watch (including its way better screen). Just as I experienced with my watches. The screen stays on if you want , and it has wonderfully battery life (14 days+). Even when it only would be a couple of days it still would be great (i had an apple watch..). So also a Wonderfull battery life. Is there anything true for people/potential buyers you want to add?
I have this watch, I had it connected to my phone. My phone broke and I had to temporarily use my old phone while I wait for my new phone. I reconnected my Garmin to the Connect app and all of my history is gone just because I had to connect to a new device. Is there anyway to prevent that in the future, like when my new phone comes for example? Or is there anyway to get that lost data back!?
i do not see , as a runner and cyclist, that the 165 will be a huge upgrade over the 55. The 55 i still best bang for back in the budget range. Or I'm i missing something?
Garmin needs to stop producing so many new models. I think part of the problem people have, especially newcomers is they get overwhelmed with the amount of watches that are available. I appreciate Garmin having many choices. But to me, adding a 165 to the lineup isn’t worth it, i even questioned when they added the 265. I know they are trying to hit every price target but it seems pretty silly to me. I have a fenix 7x SS and absolutely love it. But this is getting ridiculous now lol
I have received the Vivoactive 5 for my birhtday (came from a Forerunner 645), it is the biggest disappointment ever due to the too sensitive touchscreen (and I have already put the sensitivity to low). If you hit pause and by accident the sleeve of your jacket hits the screen it starts saving, I lost so many nice data because of this as you then have to restart and you 45 kilometer hike is split in 2. So many frustrations on that one, instead of joy. Now I am considering this 165 as I do not want to spend a fortune on a new watch and I think for what I use it for this one should be fine. I am curious about the skiing function of the 165 as that is also bad on the Vivoactive 5, it keeps counting the elevators also, does not know when you go downhill. Is that OK on the 165?
Off topic but how do you get such a high anaerobic workout! Is a chest strap a must? No matter how closely I follow the recommended workout I never get more than 0.5
5 місяців тому
Hi. Do you know if Apple Watch has any features like the Garmin running coach?
@@karelbuigaart3777 awesome. Congrats. I hope it serves you very well. How's it been thus far? I think I'll choose it as well ... But the 165 Music as that's important to me as well.... I had the Vivoactive 4s and it was really awesome but I guess I'm a more serious runner now & still looking to stay within a decent budget + it's time to go Amoled without bothering about that cute look on the Vivoactive 5. I'll get it soon and update you✌🏾
@@legendsofmyself Well so far I haven't had any issues with the forerunner 165. Actually, it has been really great I didn't expect the buttons to be that important for me. I am glad i chose this one and not the vivoactive 5.
@@karelbuigaart3777 hello 👋🏾... I decided on the 165 as well. I love it so far. Still early days but I appreciate the options of having buttons and it's just a nice watch overall 🎉
Wow, looks like a direct competitor of Coros Pace 3. Coros probably should upgrade navigation from breadcrumb to GPS map in order to beat all extra features of Forerunner 165 (like Garmin Pay, Body battery, Spotify music).
I have a question for you…I have 2 tweens (12 and 11) and they both run with me. Right now they have Fitbit Charge 5s. They do not have phones. Which garmin would you recommend for them to give the most stats that can be utilized without a phone. (I have an iPhone and it’s paired to my Garmin Epix)
Very unimpressed with no powermeter connection. Why wouldn't it support them? Unless it's just to force you to spend much more. Otherwsise this would be exactly what I am looking for.
I mean, absolutely it’s to force you to upgrade. That’s how Garmin creates all these models. I imagine they figure people worried about cycling power meter support will also want the advanced metrics on 265 or can afford it. You’ve spent hundreds for the meter. It has built-in run power which is something even higher end Garmins didn’t have a couple years ago
Not to mention the glass on the screen is chemical hardened not corning gorilla or anything. Also i feel the like 'music' version of watches are a dodgy upsell when 4 gbs of storage is plenty to store a few especially as few as 23 songs like the example given.
Great video, thanks! I’m a newbie who bought the 165 two days ago, but after just one day I got fed up with it and packed it up to be brought back to the store 😅 are all the AMOLED screens so…. Jumpy? I play around with my kids and ooops tthe watch is open and two steps into the menus. When I tried the screen lock I got REALLY annoyed 😇 is anyone else experiencing this? Is there a solution? Or should I just go MIP?
Ray, I can currently get the 165 none music for €195, the 255 (not 265) for 290 and the 965 for 450. Would you say the differences in specs are worth the 100 and €250?
I’m only here to see drones hit trees. Ray did not disappoint at 2:44
Was just going to post this comment as well. That was amazing!
I first thought it was his girlfriend who hit the tree with the GoPro 😂🤘🏻
@@hdmedia7404 - His wife Bobby is awesome. And she is fast. She is probably up the trail a little ways waiting on Ray. I don't know about her drone flying abilities. 🤔
Including that shot in the video was gold!
2:35
I agree with you about the number of models. I'm in a state of decision paralysis about getting a new one. I would love for them to cut it down to a manageable set.
That means you're paying for more stuff you don't need.
Thank you ever so much for this in depth review. I remember you when choosing my first cycle computer. Fast forward, for this nearly 82 year old, who has lost his mind & taken up running! Never run in my life, but yesterday, over here in the UK, completed my first 5k parkrun. Expensive Hoka trainers arriving this week & trying to decide which running watch to buy. Might go with the Forerunner 165 as a starter.
Can't believe nobody commented yet. Just wanted to say your attitude towards fitness is amazing. Let age be just a number!
You are amazing.....I hope you find running full filling and enjoyable....
@@unknowpeople1614 Thanks for the compliment. just putting death on hold!
I think I'm gonna buy this. This cleans up a lot of the problems with Garmin's entry level line, albeit for a price. For a while their cheaper watches didn't have Garmin Pay for example. My Venu 2 is OK but I like this thing's fitness focus.
That drone shot is hilarious
Everyone: Garmin has too many options, it should really harmonise the available options
Garmin: Here is the NEW Forerunner 165!
Yeah it is easy to get lost in the options. I don't know why some watches offer triathlon options while others with generally better features don't. Forerunners don't offer features for wheelchair users, whereas the vivoactive has them. I wish Garmin would make this more simple. The compare function on their website is not a nice feature, it is a must to use if you don't like to make buying decisions which you'll regret later.
@@hornsteinhof7592 for me it would be quite inapprpriate to sell a watch for(e)runner(s) to wheelchair users 😅
And still people keep buying Garmin while there are brands like Coros and Amazfit and Suunto
@@hornsteinhof7592 Polar has a nice comparison tool on their website. But sadly the watches are not so nice.
@@hornsteinhof7592100% agree. They are even losing customers. I still have a functional vivosport that I quite like but who knows how long it will last and the plastic around the screen is broken so it’s on its last days. I’ve been researching on and off for a new Garmin for months and I never can come up with a decision due to the immense amount of options and how hard is it to compare each
To answer the last comment, this watch is for me! I had a 245, and tried a 55. My vision is not great, so having an AMOLED screen is a huge factor. I just don't dig the style of the vivoactive 5, and the venues are too expensive.
I really like the 245, but you can't even increase the backlight on it. Under some conditions it can be hard to read if you're older like myself. Also, at my age, getting out is enough. I don't need the multi-band accuracy etc. that comes with the 255.
I own a 245 myself. I run without my glasses, the 245 is sometimes hard to read for me while running. Is the 165 easier to read?
I just bought the watch a few days ago, though I’m a hiker, not a runner. I like the design and size a lot, and the battery has been quite good. It has a breadcrumb map, that I like quite a bit. It’s not the Garmin Instinct, but still quite good for hiking. I was looking for a 255 but that is still 100 dollars more, and I found the 165 for 200 bucks at Walmart. My base instinct finally was at its end after almost 5 years, and wanted a smaller replacement. So far, I have zero complaints.
I have a hard time coming up with who this watch is for. The 255 can be found discounted for basically the same price and you get way more metrics, activities and multiband GPS. Maybe for people who don't want to pay for the 265, must have an AMOLED screen, and thus want a Forerunner "light".
Eventually, though, the FR255 will fade away. But yes, lots of overlap.
In sweden the 255 is $130 less. The 165 is $399 here, and the 255 $280 edit: 165 is $330 now!.
That’s precisely the reason I would buy it had I not already bought a watch
As a 245 owner who bought it when it was very cheap and thinks AMOLED looks prettier, but 265 is overpriced for my comparatively minimal use its sort of aimed at me.
My wife who is a casual runner, would rather have 165 for the nicer screen vs 255 with more stats.
as somebody still using an old Garmin forerunner 45....if I upgrade i'm just gonna get the 255 when it's on sale.
About 18 months ago, I went from 230 to 945LTE . Multi generational jump. The 45 is still great watch, but that’s on your activities too.
945 has been fantastic for running and cycling for a while for me too @@henrihelvetica5835
The Venu/Vivoactive/165 product segmentation seems so strange.
Good thing to point out, plenty of those functions that weren’t available back when it launched and you can see people complaining all over the comments, are now available in it via software updates
I’m glad they’ve come out with their watch to be in direct competition with the Coros Pace 3, now they need to come out with one to be in direct competition with the Coros Vertix 2.
I really need the garmin 365 and my wife needs the 565. Please garmin!
The 365 could be a more stylish Version (365 Days) and the 565 a bigger Version 😅
I need 1065🙏
@@aon186 wouldnt that basically be a epix x
I bought a 265 at a very good price about 2 weeks ago, but looking at the capabilities of the 165 model I feel a little deceived. What are you doing, Garmin? I'm looking forward to a detailed comparison, thanks!
I feel sorry for anyone interested in buying a garmin right now. I bought one last year and spent like two months researching the differences between different garmins and then between garmins and other brands. It's confusing as hell for the consumer and creates a huge mental barrier to entry. They desperately need to:
a) trim down the number of models, not add new ones. Again, when buying these things It's a right headache to have to learn how all the different garmins compare to each other, let alone other brands. A huge mental barrier to entry. Three forerunners per generation was complicated enough. There's the forerunner, vivoactive, venu etc etc. I say one line for running/athletics, one line emphasising style, and then the fenix and epix watches at the top. Two watches per product line is enough, maybe three for a basic/lite, pro and ultra approach.
b) fix the naming schemes (these numbers are nonsensical to someone who is new to the brand and even now I understand it I think they'd be better served with literally anything else. It's not original but we all understand the standard, pro, ultra naming schemes so just go with that.
agree 100%. When you deal with garmin software, you'll understand their naming convention (neither makes ANY sense)
Especially with the sale prices now. 2024 Black Friday Deals:
165 Music - $250
255 - $250
Vivoactive 5 - $200
So many options, hoping my choice with the 165 music was the right one....
Just bought this and absolutely loved it, worth the investment
2:40 funniest thing on the internet. How is the drone?
Totally fine. Little guy takes a beating!
I wanted to post the same thing. Ray was trolling the drone by taking that curve path instead of turning in on the cement path. 😂
hahahah.. testing the Hover Air X1 like no one else can hahaha
Felt that myself, lol.
Haha I didn’t even notice that. Hilarious!
Thanks for this, I decided to get this one!
The price should start at $165 and Garmin should advertise it for people who have other Watches (Apple) and want another watch that is Sports Specific. This would persuade those users to most likely upgrade to future Garmin Sports Watches.
in my opinion, Garmin don't need a massif advertise, many athlete know the Garmin quality, Apple watch is only for those who need life style, just life style, they don't thing about many sport available, the endurance of battery etc
What about a head to head Pace 3 and FR 165 ?
For me, Pace 3 is more affordable than 165 in terms of price cus you may get the dual frequency gps and more data fields setup, up to 8 data in one page including import running route for your run with lower price.
At this price if you luv the Garmin, 255s or 255 is the best choice.
Affordable price you should be looking for Pace 3 for the material Suunto is one of them.
Excellent product insight as always!! Now I’m even more confused as to which watch to buy. Out of this and the Garmin 255 both at a similar price, which one would you go first? Thanks!
255 more complete watch
@@lowzyyy thanks 👍🏽
255 if you're serious about running
Keep the video bloopers in. I think they're awesome
Did that drone crash on 2:36? 😂
Your pricing list is off. The 265 is still at $450 and not coming down.
Too many models even for Ray to keep track of. I think he mixed up the 255 and 265.
Recently bought one for myself, since it's my first Garmin Watch I'm still learning how to use it.
How was it? Im getting 165 too, my first garmin
Is the HR accurate?
It's enough actually if you don't mind the few seconds delay.
Still using my FR 245 that refuse to die.
I'm still using a FR230, 8 years going strong :-) but I'm interested in the FR165 once the FR230 would stop working.
Someone should tell garmin to stop insane product waste fragmentation
How does it compare to the $230 Coros Pace 3?
I'm conflicted between the vivoactive 5 and the Forerunner 165. On one hand I think that the vivoactive is a much better/more elegant looking watch, and can go better with normal outfits as opposed to the forerunner which looks more sport-specific. At least in my eyes. If the vivoactive had the suggested workouts and pace predictor/pace pro then it would be an easy decision, but i'm not sure if those are dealbreakers or not!
Vivactive 5 doesn't have resume later which can be important for hikes or bike rides with longer breaks. Agreed it looks better.
I have the same struggle, which one did you decide to get in the end?
According to Garmin official page, it has also open water swim…
Does this have turn by turn navigation? For example if I hit a fork in the trail will it direct me the correct way? (Before I hit the fork in the road will it have a notification on what way to turn?)
Please compare FR 165 vs Coros Pace 3!
Excellent review 👍 thanks. I just subscribed
I'm considering this watch, as my Fitbit's AMOLED screen has some pretty horrid burn in. Has that been an issue with recent Garmin AMOLED watches, or have they avoided burn-in issues?
2:36 that drone crashed into the tree didn’t it 😂
If the 265 or 965 had a flat screen like the 165 for sure I'll buy them, but because of that I'll be holding even if that means years until they release they release a flat screen version sucesor of 265/965
Pleaseee i hope you consider making a video comparing coros pace 3 and FR 165
Saw a lot of comment here comparing Garmin to Coros. Not sure about the watch capabilities as I only own Decathlon KIPRUN GPS 500 (it’s a Coros first model) after several years using Fenix 3, the most differences I can say it’s the ecosystem. I’m started using AllTrails app few months ago and it’s only supported Garmin. That’s the pain in the ass since I can’t seem to sync my hike to the app and loose the capability to verify my hike (from the list of mountains there). So it’s all go back to what you need and what you use it for. I’m definitely changing back to Garmin as I’m doing more hike now, just contemplating to choose either this new 165 or Instinct 2 Solar
Ah, no power meter support. That’s something I need. But I can see this being useful for a lot of people.
I hope Garmin release a forerunner 65 with trans reflective screen, track mode, workout support, breadcrumb trails.
No need to tell me I slept well, or HRV, or an OLED screen.
I imagine the battery eating OLED screens will force consumers into faster upgrade cycles and negatively impact used market as batteries loose capacity. So I can see it makes business sense for Garmin.
That's why they're going all in on Amoled
Speaking of too many Garmin watch options.
I suspect you confused 265 price with 255.
265 starting from 449$
Indeed, can't win them all! 😂
I agree with the comments. Garmin have created a series of too many watches where none of them are perfect (for me anyway) making it really hard to pull the trigger. Mine basically doesn't leave my wrist, so giving it more features makes the watch too big to sleep with. But i liked the readiness feature which 165 doesn't have. I miss my 745 more and more now. Shouldn't have left it in a golf cart then.....
I dont need spotify, my card, touch screen or aoled display. All i want is a more affordable watch with maps.
Pace 3?
Forerunner 955. Get it second hand if you can. That will be best value for money.
But if it’s only for following a preloaded route you need maps for then the breadcrumb navigation on 165 will be plenty good.
Agreed. That's what I wanted as well. Ended up getting the 55 which is great, but sheesh I had to turn off all sorts of smart watch things just to make it a running watch lol
Apple watch Se?
@@brum293what is breadcrumbs navigation?
Feels like this is the death of the midrange non-touch watch. Glad I got my FR255 when I did, I'm going to be holding onto it until it dies.
You can simply disable touch here though, no reason to use it if you don't want to.
@@Dcrainmaker Didn't know that, thanks. It's still a lot of extra to pay for (both $$ and (I suspect) battery), but it's good to know that at least as things stand right now that's an option.
Awesome & Thanks :)
considering updating my fr45
same here
Had no interest in smart watches, but have somehow ended up on 2 of these videos, intrigued 😂
2024 Black Friday Deals:
165 Music - $250
255 - $250
Vivoactive 5 - $200
So many options, hoping my choice with the 165 music was the right one....
Any news on the Instinct 3 yet ?
I've seen many rumors of a release in March this year. But of course, still just rumors...
@@Dnserror88With Amoled ?
amoled will ruin instinct, raw all arrounder,
@@hdmedia7404 of course not, the instinct line will not have amoled. Its main focus is batterylife
I was expecting an update to the Edge 130 plus.
i think that Garmin needs like 9 more models so they achieve carbon neutrality because it is becoming a jungle!
Lmaoo
Can you do a review of the amzfit balance please???
Seems like great value. I was set on the 265 @ $600 Canadian, but now have to consider this for $340 Cdn, 43% cheaper. Pretty big price difference to mostly gain multiband GPS, tri/multisport mode, and training readiness.
Gonna have to wait for the indepth 165 vs 265 video to decide
The FR255 and FR265 has had a update with the activity profile 'inline skating'. The Fr165 don't have it and will not get it with a update (looks like)... Is there a possibility to customize a profile and is there a differend with profile installed from Garmin?
Q: will the Forerunner 65 pull a course from your "favorites" that you downloaded from you run club and will it give you a verbale and audible turn by turn if you have your bluetooth headset on? I am a back of the pack runner and always get lost in our downtown streets. I am looking for a watch that will give me audible turn by turn directions as I am on a run. thank you
Also wondering about turn by turn for trail running.. does it have it!?!
Can you do comparison between venu sq2 and forerunner 165?
I seriously don’t know how anyone can figure out which Garmin to buy other than by price. Can’t tell one watch from another.
I compared the specs over the course of a few hours, it's possible to figure it out in the end but it is way too complicated and time consuming of a process to be practical
Don’t just compare the spec, compare the sport that you’re into as well. Looks that this 165 support trail run, as well as hike which my wife’s Venu SQ does not have, that’s a huge difference if you’re someone who cares about data and stuff.
Which should I get as an avid cyclist looking to track more health data?
43*43mm right?
So a ton of metrics as us usual but...empirically NOK? That's why I sold my 955 and got a V2 after two decades of FRs. Not worth the aggravation.
Possibly miss the race predictions but Runalyze has them too.
Oh and there are great DFs for the V2 like GRun or GRun more with 8 fields.
I just changed to the 265s from the 955. I never used the maps and navigation. So I didn't think I needed the 965.
I was hesitant about the AMOLED screen and battery.
Boy was I surprised. The bright crisp screen makes the watch feel like a whole new watch.
I normally work out early morning. So the sun is down or hardly popping out. So the screen looks great. The times I run in the day or cycle, the screen is still bright and visible. I'm getting a solid week of battery with allot of GPS activities.
This 165 sounds like a good idea. Just wish it was a little cheaper to really grab the new runners
Just a quick note, i got the garmin FR165 and you cant export swim workouts to the watch its not compatible. Thanks Garmin! Also using their website looks like the swim 2 can and Venu 2/4 and vivoactive 4. Which i dont trust the Venu and VA4 to be able to do this so i might purchase a swim 2 since they still sell these new at the shops.
I would be more interested in a new FR 55... a FR 65 or so. Does anybody know if such a watch is coming in the near future?
I think the 165 is the unofficial successor of the 55. What Do you think would be the difference between a 165 and a 65?
@@moritztweber The price! I do not call a nearly 300€ sports watch budget friendly. The FR 55 started below 200€ if I am not mistaken... I am looking for something like that. :)
I find the smaller watches have better heart rate accuracy because they're nice and light, thus keeping them very stable on the wrist during a run or bike session. My Forerunner 55 seems to be more accurate than my Fenix 7 because of this. I have to crank down the strap on the Fenix 7 to the point of being uncomfortable to keep it from bouncing as I run. Very annoying.
I am so confused with all these options. What Garmin watch would you buy, if you were a beginner runner but looking to advance, and a lifelong tennis player? I also do pilates and yoga. I don't really care about a pretty AMOLED screen so much as I don't think I'll constantly look at the watch while I'm running and don't intend to wear it for day to day activities, but just for sport. I'd like to listen to music without bringing my phone on my runs. I remember looking into the FR255 but the release of this watch just confuses me a bit. Thanks to anyone who can help :)
I bought the 945LTE after 6yrs w/ a 230. But they then introduced the 265/965, and I’ve been waiting for a sale because that screen is just too awesome. Now this! The Canadian pricing feels off though. 165 is $339, 265 is $599 (!!!) and 965 is $799.
I don't understand their Canadian pricing (and lack of discounts/sales!)... I'm assuming they're selling plenty in the US and Canada is just gravy.
For what it's worth, DC gave the wrong USD price for the 265. As a fellow Canadian, if you know anyone who has Perkopolis through work benefits, you can get 20% off regular priced Garmin products. Maybe not yet for the 165 but it does work for the 265 and 965, if you're too impatient to wait for them to go on sale since they're some of the newest models.
@@Stephen9o3 Hmmm....my wife actually had Perkopolis benefits through her work. I'll have to look into that. 🙏
If u r using mostly for gym would u recommend this or vivoactive 5 or amazefit balance?
what you recommend this 165 or a 935
Specifically for swimming, is it as good as the 955?? Im iust talking about swimming, (pool/open water) is it as accurate when it comes to swimming ??
The array of options at this price point is because each product targets a consumer not a different functional product.
Garmin is having a laugh with the Amoled tax lol. You have to really love shiny widgets to get this. Nearly four years later the similarly priced 255 is still a much better watch. And it has a screen that somehow still manages to stay on all the time without burning out, with wonderful battery life to boot :)
Not true, my old fenix 5 was way more expensive than my current 965 which has a much better/brighter screen and with way more functionality. Price difference is globally 170 euro. For me (old) the amoled is way way more easier to read. So it just depends on your wishes.
@@StevenafoeWhat bit is not true? Of course the Fenix is more expensive, it's a completely different category. Forerunner vs Forerunner this watch does nothing better than the four year old 255.
@@robhunt8378the 255 was launched in 2022
@@robhunt8378 lol. (1) Amoled-tax. (2) You really have to love shiny widgets (3) 255 is still a much better watch (4) screen stays on all the time (5) wonderfull battery life. It’s all your opinion. Not mine. So it’s all not true.
I have showed there’s no garmin amoled tax in my case. Guess garmin is not laughing anyway. I have showed that you don’t need to love shiny widgets to get this new watch . 255 is a different garmin line, but as the 165 has garmin’s latest stuff, there might be people appreciating the newer watch over the older watch (including its way better screen). Just as I experienced with my watches. The screen stays on if you want , and it has wonderfully battery life (14 days+). Even when it only would be a couple of days it still would be great (i had an apple watch..). So also a Wonderfull battery life.
Is there anything true for people/potential buyers you want to add?
@@robhunt8378 255 is less than 2 years old 🤷🏻♂️
I have this watch, I had it connected to my phone. My phone broke and I had to temporarily use my old phone while I wait for my new phone. I reconnected my Garmin to the Connect app and all of my history is gone just because I had to connect to a new device. Is there anyway to prevent that in the future, like when my new phone comes for example? Or is there anyway to get that lost data back!?
i do not see , as a runner and cyclist, that the 165 will be a huge upgrade over the 55. The 55 i still best bang for back in the budget range. Or I'm i missing something?
Loving coros
can you elaborate? which model - comparison to garmin? thanks
Garmin needs to stop producing so many new models. I think part of the problem people have, especially newcomers is they get overwhelmed with the amount of watches that are available. I appreciate Garmin having many choices. But to me, adding a 165 to the lineup isn’t worth it, i even questioned when they added the 265. I know they are trying to hit every price target but it seems pretty silly to me. I have a fenix 7x SS and absolutely love it. But this is getting ridiculous now lol
I’m surprised you didn’t speak on how it compares to the Coros Pace 2. Seems they’d be direct competitors, outside of Garmin’s own line.
Great vids I got the fr55 and I want a upgrade did want the fr965 but at £600 compare 2 the fr265 possible £300
I have received the Vivoactive 5 for my birhtday (came from a Forerunner 645), it is the biggest disappointment ever due to the too sensitive touchscreen (and I have already put the sensitivity to low). If you hit pause and by accident the sleeve of your jacket hits the screen it starts saving, I lost so many nice data because of this as you then have to restart and you 45 kilometer hike is split in 2. So many frustrations on that one, instead of joy. Now I am considering this 165 as I do not want to spend a fortune on a new watch and I think for what I use it for this one should be fine. I am curious about the skiing function of the 165 as that is also bad on the Vivoactive 5, it keeps counting the elevators also, does not know when you go downhill. Is that OK on the 165?
Off topic but how do you get such a high anaerobic workout! Is a chest strap a must? No matter how closely I follow the recommended workout I never get more than 0.5
Hi. Do you know if Apple Watch has any features like the Garmin running coach?
Do I choose the Garmin forerunner 165 or the Garmin vivoactive 5?
What did you decide... I'm in the same limbo
@@legendsofmyself i chose the forerunner 165
@@karelbuigaart3777 awesome. Congrats. I hope it serves you very well.
How's it been thus far?
I think I'll choose it as well ... But the 165 Music as that's important to me as well....
I had the Vivoactive 4s and it was really awesome but I guess I'm a more serious runner now & still looking to stay within a decent budget + it's time to go Amoled without bothering about that cute look on the Vivoactive 5.
I'll get it soon and update you✌🏾
@@legendsofmyself Well so far I haven't had any issues with the forerunner 165. Actually, it has been really great I didn't expect the buttons to be that important for me. I am glad i chose this one and not the vivoactive 5.
@@karelbuigaart3777 hello 👋🏾... I decided on the 165 as well. I love it so far. Still early days but I appreciate the options of having buttons and it's just a nice watch overall 🎉
I like the information in the review. I never see anyone show the information record in the garmin app. Is it possible to add it into future reviews?
Wow, looks like a direct competitor of Coros Pace 3. Coros probably should upgrade navigation from breadcrumb to GPS map in order to beat all extra features of Forerunner 165 (like Garmin Pay, Body battery, Spotify music).
what would be the cheapest garmin that tracks inline rollerblading , stairs climbing and indoor cycling?
Offline youtube music? Btw does it support multipoint sharing? Like listening to music with 2 devices. Airpods+beats?
I have a question for you…I have 2 tweens (12 and 11) and they both run with me. Right now they have Fitbit Charge 5s. They do not have phones. Which garmin would you recommend for them to give the most stats that can be utilized without a phone. (I have an iPhone and it’s paired to my Garmin Epix)
Have any garmins feature for look list of laps while in workout? Not only current / last lap. Or coros maybe?
Very unimpressed with no powermeter connection. Why wouldn't it support them? Unless it's just to force you to spend much more. Otherwsise this would be exactly what I am looking for.
I mean, absolutely it’s to force you to upgrade. That’s how Garmin creates all these models. I imagine they figure people worried about cycling power meter support will also want the advanced metrics on 265 or can afford it. You’ve spent hundreds for the meter. It has built-in run power which is something even higher end Garmins didn’t have a couple years ago
Does the base model 165 have Wi-Fi? Comparing to the fact Garmin left that feature out on the 255 vs 255 Music.
It has
Not to mention the glass on the screen is chemical hardened not corning gorilla or anything. Also i feel the like 'music' version of watches are a dodgy upsell when 4 gbs of storage is plenty to store a few especially as few as 23 songs like the example given.
Tell me, is it possible to disable Bluetooth and ANT+ on the watch itself when it is not needed? And they'll be fine
fit on a narrow wrist (~16 cm)?
I have a FR 165 but the time display stopped being AMOLED (no colors any more) what should I do?
2:31 Please tell me you have camera-person insurance😄📹
Does FR165's bluetooth connection to earphone works well for me to listen to music while I swim?
What will your feedback be on the FR165 vs the VA3s is the price difference worth?
Great video, thanks! I’m a newbie who bought the 165 two days ago, but after just one day I got fed up with it and packed it up to be brought back to the store 😅 are all the AMOLED screens so…. Jumpy? I play around with my kids and ooops tthe watch is open and two steps into the menus. When I tried the screen lock I got REALLY annoyed 😇 is anyone else experiencing this? Is there a solution? Or should I just go MIP?
Huawei Gt Runner and Huawei GT 4 are for sure more solid options!!
Everyone has like 3 options depending what you want and there is Garmin with 100 options
2:44 Is the drone okay?
Ray, I can currently get the 165 none music for €195, the 255 (not 265) for 290 and the 965 for 450. Would you say the differences in specs are worth the 100 and €250?