I’ve been running with the Garmin Forerunner 265s for the past few months, and it’s safe to say it has become more than just a watch — it’s a training partner. Before making the switch, I was using an Apple Watch for my runs. While it did the job, the battery life was always a frustration. I’d often find myself charging at inconvenient times, especially during higher mileage weeks. That’s ultimately what pushed me to Garmin — and I haven’t looked back.

First Impressions

The 265s feels lightweight and comfortable on the wrist, which is a big win on long runs where bulkier watches can get distracting. The AMOLED display is bright, crisp, and easy to read even in direct sunlight. It’s a small detail, but being able to glance down and clearly see pace and heart rate without squinting is a real upgrade from my old setup.

Running Features

Garmin has packed the 265s with everything I actually need — no gimmicks, just useful tools for runners:
• Accurate GPS tracking across road, trail, and treadmill runs.
• Live data feedback that’s reliable and easy to follow during workouts.
• Post-run analysis that goes far deeper than what I got from Apple — helping me actually understand my training load and recovery.
• Training readiness score: I was skeptical at first, but it’s been surprisingly accurate. On days it told me to hold back, I usually found I wasn’t feeling fresh anyway.

For me, the live data and post-run breakdowns have been the biggest difference compared to Apple Watch. It’s less about just recording a run and more about using the data to train smarter.

Battery Life

This is where the 265s shines. I charge it roughly once a week, even while tracking daily runs and using smartwatch features. Compared to charging my Apple Watch almost daily, this feels like freedom. For longer events like marathons or ultra training blocks, that peace of mind is priceless.

Downsides

The biggest downside for me is the lack of built-in mapping. Some of Garmin’s higher-end models include this, and I can see why. Most of the time, I don’t miss it — but when I’m out exploring new trails or running in unfamiliar places, it would definitely come in handy.

Final Thoughts

The Garmin Forerunner 265s has been a game-changer for me. The combination of reliable battery life, accurate tracking, meaningful post-run insights, and the surprisingly useful run readiness score makes it a watch I can genuinely recommend. While the lack of maps is a small drawback, it hasn’t outweighed the benefits for my daily training.

👉 My verdict: If you’re tired of short battery life or want deeper insights into your running, the 265s is absolutely worth it.

Check it out now at Garmin!