The world of smartwatches and fitness trackers is vast and ever-expanding, with numerous brands offering a plethora of options for consumers. One brand that stands out in the realm of multisport watches is Garmin. Known for its high-quality products and advanced features, Garmin has long been a favorite among athletes and fitness enthusiasts. However, the price point and complexity of Garmin’s watches can be intimidating for newcomers to the world of fitness tech.
The Garmin Forerunner 165 Music aims to address these concerns by offering a budget-friendly option that doesn’t compromise on quality or functionality. Priced at $299.99 for the Music version and $249.99 for the standard version, the Forerunner 165 is a more wallet-friendly alternative to Garmin’s flagship watches, which can cost upwards of $700 to over $1,000. The Forerunner 165 Music is essentially a more affordable version of the Forerunner 265 series, offering most of the same features at a fraction of the price.
In terms of performance, the Forerunner 165 Music holds its own, providing accurate outdoor activity tracking despite not having dual-frequency GPS or EKGs for atrial fibrillation detection. While these features may be beneficial for some users, the average individual may not notice a significant difference in daily use. Heart rate data from the Forerunner 165 Music was comparable to other devices like the Apple Watch Ultra 2 and a Polar H10 chest strap, making it a reliable option for tracking fitness metrics.
The Forerunner 165 Music offers a range of activity profiles and health tracking metrics that cater to a variety of sports and workouts. While it may not have specialized features for niche activities like triathlons or golfing, it covers the basics for gym workouts, cycling, running, swimming, and more. The watch provides in-depth training metrics without overwhelming users with unnecessary features, making it an ideal choice for those who prioritize simplicity and functionality.
One of the standout features of the Forerunner 165 Music is its long battery life and durability. Despite sporting a power-hungry OLED display, the watch can last almost a week on a single charge with the always-on display enabled. Additionally, the Forerunner 165 Music is built to withstand everyday wear and tear, making it suitable for both indoor and outdoor activities. Whether you’re hitting the gym or taking a swim, this watch can keep up with your active lifestyle.
The Garmin Forerunner 165 Music offers a balance of affordability, functionality, and durability that makes it a standout option in the crowded smartwatch market. While it may lack some of the advanced features found in higher-end Garmin watches, it provides everything the average user needs for tracking fitness and staying active. Whether you’re a beginner looking to dive into the world of fitness tech or a seasoned athlete seeking a reliable training companion, the Forerunner 165 Music is worth considering for its value and performance.