Pindear/Compare/Forerunner 165 Music vs Garmin Forerunner 165

Forerunner 165 Music vs Garmin Forerunner 165

Side-by-side on the specs that matter, with category winners and an opinionated take to help you decide.

The VerdictAI-generated · editor-reviewed

This choice is about paying extra for onboard music storage versus saving money with a more basic running watch.

AForerunner 165 Music

Pick Forerunner 165 Music if you want to leave your phone behind and run with just your watch and Bluetooth headphones.

BGarmin Forerunner 165

Pick Garmin Forerunner 165 if you run with your phone anyway and don't need the extra cost and complexity of music storage.

Trade-offs to own
  • Music model adds storage for playlists but costs more.
  • Standard model is lighter on features but also on your wallet.
  • Both track runs, but only the Music version plays them.

Full specs

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Forerunner 165 Music
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Garmin Forerunner 165

Pindear may earn a commission when you buy through these links. Winners are determined by numeric spec comparisons only; non-numeric features (app quality, ecosystem, real-world feel) are covered in the verdict.

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