Forerunner 265 and 265S: Garmin officially launches a new, cheaper multisport smartwatch

In addition to the Garmin Forerunner 965, Garmin has also unveiled a second, cheaper smartwatch, the Forerunner 265, which is also launched in a more compact S version. The watch is missing one feature in particular.

Garmin has officially introduced the Forerunner 265 and the Forerunner 265S in addition to the Forerunner 965. The two smartwatches are cheaper than the Forerunner 965.

The difference between the 265 and 265S is size. It is equipped with a 1.3-inch AMOLED screen with a resolution of 416 x 416 pixels, while the S version only has a 1.1-inch screen with a resolution of 360 x 360 pixels. Both displays support touch inputs and are protected by Corning Gorilla Glass 3.

The internal memory is only 8 GB instead of 32 GB. Music playback is possible, but locally saved maps cannot be navigated. Both models have more than 30 activity profiles, including triathlons, cycling, swimming, and more. Forerunner 265 will provide up to 13 days of battery life, and 265S with up to 15 days of battery life in smartwatch mode.

The Forerunner 265S is not inferior to the 265 in terms of sensors. It has a multi-GNSS module for fast and precise position determination, and it can permanently measure the oxygen saturation of the blood if desired. Additionally, it has an electronic compass and a barometric altimeter. It also provides smartwatch functions such as displaying notifications, quick reactions to text messages and calls, weather information, and calendar functions.

Garmin Forerunner 265 / 265S price and availability

• The Forerunner 265 has a price of $449.99, and it can be purchased on Adorama.com in Black/Powder Gray, Aqua/Black, and Whitestone/Tidal Blue color options.

• The Garmin Forerunner 265S also costs $449.99, and it can be purchased on Adorama.com in Black/Amp Yellow, Whitestone/Neo Tropic, and Light Pink/Whitestone color options.