Garmin recently launched the Forerunner 165, a smartwatch tailored for runners and fitness enthusiasts who want to enhance their training without breaking the bank. Priced affordably, the Forerunner 165 offers a suite of features comparable to more expensive models, making it a noteworthy contender in the world of fitness technology.
The Specs
- Base Price: $249 (Music Edition, $299)
- Display: Features an AMOLED color touchscreen display
- Battery Life: Up to 4 days with always-on display mode
- GPS: Supports Garmin’s robust satellite tracking technology
- Music Storage: Available in the music edition. Supports platforms like Spotify and Amazon Music
- Garmin Pay: Contactless payment feature available
- Design and Fitness Tracking
The Forerunner 165 features a sleek AMOLED color touchscreen display, which is a luxury usually found in more expensive models. Its touchscreen enhances the user experience and makes interactions with the watch easy and intuitive.
The smartwatch impresses with an estimated four days of battery life, even with the always-on display feature activated, providing runners with more time out on the track or in the gym. The GPS system is built on Garmin’s robust satellite tracking technology, ensuring accuracy in most conditions.
Run, Health, and Fitness Tracking
The Forerunner 165 excels in health and fitness tracking features, including comprehensive sleep tracking, heart rate variability (HRV) status monitoring, and body battery functionality, which advises users on the best times to exert themselves or take a rest based on energy levels. The music edition of the watch allows users to store playlists and podcasts for added motivation during workouts.
The Forerunner 165 measures running power and dynamics directly from the wrist, offering insights into form and efficiency. It also offers post-exercise metrics such as training effect and recovery time, helping users understand the impact of their workouts and how much rest they need before the next session.
t/f Summary: Yea or Nay
The Garmin Forerunner 165 offers dependable GPS and heart rate sensors, making it a competitive choice in the budget smartwatch segment. While it may not have all the features of top-tier models, it provides several desired functionalities at a more accessible price point.
The smartwatch positions itself as an attractive option for athletes, especially runners, who seek a reliable training tool without breaking the bank. The balance of functionality and affordability makes it suitable for beginners and seasoned athletes alike, providing the necessary data and motivation to reach fitness goals.
Choosing the right Garmin watch is about understanding specific needs and matching them with the features that each model offers. The Forerunner 165, with its balance of functionality and affordability, is an excellent fit for those looking to elevate their training without overspending. Whether preparing for a marathon or staying active, this smartwatch is designed to be by your side, providing the data and motivation needed to reach fitness goals.
Pros
- Affordable pricing
- High-end features
- AMOLED display
- Tailored features for runners
- Solid battery performance
- High customization
- Comprehensive sleep tracking
- Detailed recovery tracking
Cons
- No advanced GPS functionality
- No cycling power meter functionality
- Varied models make selection difficult
- Missing features in high-end Forerunner models