Have you been eyeing that gorgeous AMOLED display on the Garmin Forerunner 965 but wondering if it’s really worth dropping six hundred bucks on a running watch?
You’re not alone. When Garmin released the Forerunner 965 in March 2023, runners everywhere started asking the same question. After all, $600 is a serious investment for any piece of running gear, even one that promises to revolutionize your training.
Here’s the thing: after months of testing this watch through everything from quick morning jogs to grueling trail marathons, I’ve discovered that the answer isn’t as simple as yes or no. The Forerunner 965 packs some genuinely game-changing features that might make it worth every penny – but it also has a few quirks that could be deal-breakers for certain runners.
In this comprehensive review, you’ll discover exactly what makes the Forerunner 965 tick, who should buy it, and most importantly, whether it’s the right investment for your running journey in 2025.
What Makes the Garmin Forerunner 965 Special?
Let’s cut straight to the chase. The Forerunner 965 isn’t just another incremental upgrade – it’s Garmin’s bold statement about where running watches are headed. At its heart lies a stunning 1.4-inch AMOLED display that makes every other running watch look dated by comparison.
But specs only tell part of the story. What really sets the 965 apart is how it combines premium materials with cutting-edge technology. The titanium bezel isn’t just for show – it adds durability without adding weight. And that matters when you’re logging serious miles.
The AMOLED Display: A Game-Changer or Battery Killer?
If you’re upgrading from an older Garmin, the first thing you’ll notice is that gorgeous AMOLED screen. Colors pop with vibrancy that makes checking your stats mid-run actually enjoyable. The 454×454 pixel resolution means text is crisp enough to read without squinting, even when your heart rate is through the roof.
“The readability and resolution of the AMOLED display is so much better. But it really depends on how and in which kinds of environments and activities you use the watch.”
Here’s what you need to know about the display:
- Brightness: Easily visible in direct sunlight – a crucial feature for outdoor runners
- Always-On Mode: Available, but reduces battery life from 23 days to about 7 days
- Touch Response: Smooth and responsive, even with sweaty fingers
- Map Navigation: The higher resolution makes trail maps actually usable
But let’s address the elephant in the room: battery life. Yes, the AMOLED display uses more power than traditional MIP displays. However, Garmin has managed to squeeze impressive longevity out of this watch. You’re looking at:
| Mode | Battery Life |
|---|---|
| Smartwatch Mode (Always-On Display OFF) | Up to 23 days |
| Smartwatch Mode (Always-On Display ON) | Up to 7 days |
| GPS Only | 31 hours |
| GPS + Music | 10.5 hours |
| Multi-Band GPS | 19 hours |
Training Features That Actually Make You Faster
Pretty screens are nice, but you’re buying a running watch to improve your performance, right? This is where the Forerunner 965 truly shines. The Training Readiness feature has become my secret weapon for knowing when to push hard and when to take it easy.
Every morning, your watch analyzes multiple factors to give you a readiness score:
- Sleep quality and duration
- Recovery time from previous workouts
- Heart rate variability (HRV) trends
- Acute training load
- Stress levels
Wrist-Based Running Dynamics
One of the biggest upgrades from previous models is built-in running dynamics. You no longer need a chest strap or foot pod to track:
- Cadence (steps per minute)
- Stride length
- Ground contact time
- Vertical oscillation
- Running power
These metrics might seem like overkill for casual runners, but they’re invaluable for anyone serious about improving their form and efficiency. The watch even provides real-time coaching cues to help you maintain optimal cadence during workouts.
GPS Accuracy: Multi-Band Technology That Works
Let’s talk about something that drives runners crazy: GPS accuracy. There’s nothing worse than finishing a perfectly measured 5K route only to have your watch show 4.8K or 5.3K. The Forerunner 965 tackles this problem with multi-band GPS technology.
What does this mean for you? The watch connects to multiple satellite systems simultaneously:
- GPS (United States)
- GLONASS (Russia)
- Galileo (European Union)
But here’s the clever part: the SatIQ technology automatically switches between single and multi-band modes based on your environment. Running through an open park? It’ll use standard GPS to save battery. Navigating between skyscrapers or under heavy tree cover? It kicks into multi-band mode for pinpoint accuracy.
“Measuring +/- 0.05 miles during our GPS testing, this provided one of the most accurate tracks.”
Maps and Navigation: Never Get Lost Again
Full-color topographic maps aren’t just a nice-to-have feature – they’re a game-changer for trail runners and anyone who likes to explore new routes. The Forerunner 965 comes with preloaded maps that work without a phone connection.
Here’s what makes the navigation features special:
- Turn-by-turn directions: The watch vibrates and displays arrows at each turn
- Breadcrumb trails: See exactly where you’ve been if you need to backtrack
- Round-trip routing: Tell the watch how far you want to run, and it’ll create a route
- ClimbPro: See upcoming climbs with gradient and distance information
The AMOLED display really shines here (pun intended). Map details that were barely visible on older MIP displays are now crystal clear, making navigation intuitive even at running pace.
Heart Rate Monitoring: Good Enough or Get a Chest Strap?
Optical heart rate monitoring has come a long way, and the Forerunner 965’s fourth-generation sensor is mostly impressive. During steady-state runs, it tracks within 1-2 beats per minute of a chest strap. But there’s a catch…
During high-intensity intervals or strength training, accuracy can suffer. You might see:
- Delayed response to sudden pace changes
- Occasional spikes or drops that don’t reflect reality
- Less accurate readings if the watch moves on your wrist
Smartwatch Features: More Than Just a Running Tool
While the Forerunner 965 excels at running metrics, it’s also a capable smartwatch for daily wear. You get all the essentials:
- Smartphone notifications: Texts, calls, and app alerts on your wrist
- Music storage: 32GB for Spotify, Amazon Music, or MP3s
- Garmin Pay: Leave your wallet at home for coffee runs
- Connect IQ Store: Thousands of watch faces and apps
- Weather updates: Real-time conditions and forecasts
The improved display makes these features actually enjoyable to use. Reading messages no longer requires squinting, and navigating menus feels smooth and responsive.
Who Should Buy the Garmin Forerunner 965?
After extensive testing, here’s my honest take on who will get the most value from this watch:
Perfect For:
- Serious runners training for marathons or ultras
- Triathletes who need seamless multi-sport tracking
- Trail runners who value navigation features
- Data enthusiasts who analyze every metric
- Tech lovers who want the latest and greatest
Maybe Skip If:
- You’re a casual runner logging less than 20 miles per week
- Battery life is your absolute top priority
- You’re happy with your current GPS watch
- $600 would blow your entire fitness budget
Garmin Forerunner 965 vs. The Competition
How does the 965 stack up against other premium running watches? Let’s break it down:
| Feature | Forerunner 965 | Forerunner 955 | Apple Watch Ultra |
|---|---|---|---|
| Display | AMOLED | MIP | AMOLED |
| Battery (GPS) | 31 hours | 42 hours | 12 hours |
| Weight | 53g | 52g | 61g |
| Maps | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Price | $599 | $499 | $799 |
The biggest competitor is actually Garmin’s own Forerunner 955. For $100 less, you get nearly identical features but with a traditional MIP display. If you don’t care about screen quality, the 955 offers better value.
Real-World Performance: 6 Months Later
After wearing the Forerunner 965 for six months through various conditions, here’s what stands out:
✅ Pros
- Stunning display that’s actually readable
- Incredibly accurate GPS tracking
- Comprehensive training metrics
- Lightweight for a feature-packed watch
- Excellent build quality
- Intuitive navigation
❌ Cons
- Expensive at $600
- Battery life drops with always-on display
- Large size might not suit small wrists
- Heart rate occasionally inaccurate
- No LTE option
Tips for Getting the Most from Your Forerunner 965
If you decide to take the plunge, here are some tips to maximize your investment:
- Customize your data screens: Take time to set up screens for different workout types
- Use Training Readiness: Trust the recovery recommendations to avoid burnout
- Enable SatIQ: Let the watch manage GPS modes automatically
- Download offline maps: Save your regular running areas for better detail
- Experiment with workouts: Try the suggested daily workouts for variety
- Manage battery wisely: Turn off always-on display for longer adventures
Common Questions About the Forerunner 965
How long does the battery really last?
In real-world use with 5-6 runs per week and always-on display disabled, expect about 10-12 days between charges. Heavy GPS users might need to charge weekly.
Is it worth upgrading from the 955?
Only if you really value the AMOLED display. The training features are virtually identical, so the upgrade is mostly aesthetic.
Can it replace a cycling computer?
For casual cycling, absolutely. But dedicated cyclists will still want a proper bike computer for easier visibility and longer battery life.
Does it work well for gym workouts?
Yes! The watch tracks strength training with rep counting, though heart rate accuracy during weights can be spotty.
The Bottom Line: Is the Garmin Forerunner 965 Worth $600?
After months of testing, the answer is a qualified yes – but only for the right runner. The Forerunner 965 represents the pinnacle of running watch technology in 2025. Its combination of a gorgeous AMOLED display, comprehensive training features, and reliable performance makes it a joy to use daily.
If you’re serious about your running and can afford the investment, the 965 will serve you well for years to come. The display alone transforms the experience of checking stats mid-run, while features like Training Readiness can genuinely help you train smarter and avoid injury.
However, if you’re budget-conscious or prioritize pure battery life over display quality, the Forerunner 955 remains an excellent alternative. And casual runners might find better value in the mid-range Forerunner 265.
The Garmin Forerunner 965 isn’t just a running watch – it’s a comprehensive training partner that happens to look fantastic on your wrist. For dedicated runners ready to invest in their performance, it’s worth every penny.
