Forerunner 245 Music vs Garmin Forerunner 165
Side-by-side on the specs that matter, with category winners and an opinionated take to help you decide.
This is a choice between a dedicated music-focused runner's watch and a modern daily training companion.
Pick Forerunner 245 Music if you want onboard music storage for phone-free runs and a more rugged, running-first design.
Pick Garmin Forerunner 165 if you want a newer interface with daily smart features and a more modern, compact watch profile.
- —The 245 Music is older but purpose-built for runners who carry their music.
- —The 165 is newer with better daily smart features but lacks onboard music storage.
- —You trade the 245's specific music utility for the 165's updated design and broader activity tracking.
Full specs
Ask anything — we'll answer with Forerunner 245 Music and Garmin Forerunner 165 in mind.
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.