PreTriathlon · 03/11/2024
Long-term review · almost two years of daily use
Garmin Forerunner 965 is still highly recommended after almost two years, with only minor wear on the bezel.
Likes- Battery still lasts well despite frequent full charges
- Heart rate monitor considered reliable
- Slim, light titanium build that feels premium
- Backup and new features added through software updates
Dislikes- Bezel shows visible wear after almost two years
- Screen picks up marks without a protector
- No LTE connectivity
Infocomputer España · 27/09/2024
Hands-on review · over four weeks of intensive use
Garmin Forerunner 965 is a top pick for triathletes and mountain runners, though the strap needs a tool and the price is high.
Likes- Detailed preloaded maps and strong navigation features
- Bright AMOLED screen with automatic brightness adjustment
- All-in-one tool combining sport and smartwatch features
Dislikes- Strap needs a special tool to remove, which is impractical for multisport
- High price, the most expensive model in the Forerunner line
- Hidden clasp design is less practical than it looks
eSavants · 11/10/2023
Long-term test · one month of daily use
Garmin Forerunner 965 is the most versatile Garmin and the best value in its range for serious athletes, despite having no usable speaker.
Likes- Very precise GPS and sensors
- AMOLED display with over 20 days of battery life
- Offline topographic maps with points of interest
- Versatile for running, cycling and hiking
Dislikes- Speaker only beeps, with no music or hands-free calls
- No microphone on the watch
PreMarathon · 28/09/2023
Hands-on review · three weeks of GPS, heart rate and altimeter tests
Garmin Forerunner 965 is well priced for a Garmin, but the glass scratches easily and stock is limited.
Likes- Very good GPS accuracy
- Bright AMOLED screen with sharp detail
- Reasonable price for a Garmin
- Clear ClimbPro display on routes
Dislikes- Glass scratches easily and fits tempered glass poorly
- Limited stock, with the black colour rarely available
- Altimeter accuracy not fully confirmed
UltraSersh · 24/09/2023
Hands-on review · battery, running and build
Garmin Forerunner 965 is the best value for money for most users, though mountain trail runners may prefer an Epic.
Likes- Sharp AMOLED display that is always on
- Accurate satellite positioning and heart rate
- Solid build with premium buttons and case
- Good integration with apps and sensors
Dislikes- Charging cable connector can loosen
- No Quick Fit strap system
- No solar charging option
- No LTE for phone-free running
PreTriathlon · 07/09/2023
Cycling review · GPS, heart rate and power tests
Garmin Forerunner 965 works very well for cycling with accurate heart rate and GPS, though a bike computer is still better.
Likes- Heart rate sensor very accurate on the bike
- GPS and distance close to dedicated bike computers
- Power and cadence readings work well
- Route navigation with climb warnings
Dislikes- Screen looks less sharp than bike computers when brightness drops
- Dedicated bike computer still recommended for regular cycling
- Small differences in distance and altitude between devices
Endrino Reviews TV · 23/07/2023
Hands-on review · Q&A on features and daily use
Garmin Forerunner 965 is one of the best sports watches the reviewer has used, recommended for anyone who can afford it.
Likes- Very accurate GPS tracking
- Accurate heart rate sensor
- Advanced running metrics for serious training
- Strong overall impression after three weeks of use
Dislikes- No built-in cellular connection for emergency calls
- High price for the single available size
- No solar version available
beFinisher · 30/04/2023
Hands-on review · maps, screen and app tests
Garmin Forerunner 965 should suit most triathlon and mountain running athletes, though third-party maps caused lockups.
Likes- Premium titanium bezel and metal buttons
- Large, customisable AMOLED touchscreen
- Very accurate heart rate readings
- Light, comfortable size
Dislikes- Third-party maps lock up the watch during use
- Few Connect IQ watch faces suited to AMOLED screens
- Most expensive Forerunner ever, and high for the features on offer