Smartwatches / Compare

Garmin Forerunner 255 vs Garmin Forerunner 965

A

Product A: Garmin

Forerunner 255

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B

Product B: Garmin

Forerunner 965

89 of 150 known

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Only differences

AGarmin Forerunner 255

BGarmin Forerunner 965

General

6 of 10 differ

Series

Forerunner1Maker product pagegarmin.com/en-US/p/780139/pn/010-02641-01Read 11 October 2026Product page title is Forerunner 255, running smartwatch, 46 mm.

Forerunner1Maker product pagegarmin.com/en-US/p/886725Read 10 October 2026Product name Forerunner 965 in the Garmin Forerunner running line.

Model numbersiMaker identifiers for this exact model and its listed variants. Excludes sibling models and other generations.

010-02641-011Maker product pagegarmin.com/en-US/p/780139/pn/010-02641-01Read 11 October 2026US page for the 46 mm watch without music lists part number 010-02641-01 (Tidal Blue, $349.99). The Music toggle on the same page links the music watch to 010-02641-20, so music watches are other models. 255S is the 41 mm size, SKU 010-02641-02.

010-02809-00, 010-02809-01, 010-02809-02, 010-02809-10, 010-02809-11, 010-02809-128Maker product pagegarmin.com/en-US/p/886725Read 10 October 2026Store part numbers: US 010-02809-00, -01, -02. International 010-02809-10, -11, -12 (Garmin DE, FR and GB pages). One retailer lists -20 for an Asia Pacific colour. It is not on a maker page and is not stored.

GTIN / EAN

Not available

Not available

AnnouncediThe maker's first announcement of this model. This is separate from first retail availability.

1 June 20223Press releasegarmin.com/en-US/newsroom/press-release/sports-fitness/garmin-celebrates-global-running-day-with-the-introduction-of-the-forerunner-255-seriesRead 11 October 2026Garmin release dated June 1, 2022.

2 March 20234Press releasegarmin.com/en-US/newsroom/press-release/sports-fitness/garmin-adds-amoled-displays-to-its-next-gen-forerunner-265-and-forerunner-965-gps-running-watchesRead 10 October 2026Maker press release dated 2 March 2023.

Status

Not available

Available1Maker product pagegarmin.com/en-US/p/886725Read 10 October 2026The Garmin US page lists the watch with no discontinued flag, list price $599.99 and add to cart. Checked on the access date.

PredecessoriThe model this one directly replaced, in the same line, tier and size, as the maker or a trusted review names it.

Not available

Not available

SuccessoriThe model that directly replaced this one, in the same line, tier and size. A revision such as a Slim or OLED model does not count when a next generation exists.

Garmin Forerunner 2658Reviewdcrainmaker.com/2023/03/garmin-forerunner-review-amoled.htmlRead 11 October 2026Review: the Forerunner 265 series at first glance seems like an AMOLED version of the Forerunner 255, with several hardware differences. It follows the 255 in the Forerunner line.10Maker product pagegarmin.com/nl-NL/blogRead 23 October 2026Garmin's Dutch blog says the Forerunner 265 is the successor of the Forerunner 255.

Garmin Forerunner 9709Maker product pagegarmin.com/en-PH/blog/fitness/the-difference-between-garmin-forerunner-965-and-970Read 10 October 2026Maker blog compares Forerunner 965 with the new Forerunner 970 as an upgrade path. Relationship only. No Forerunner 970 value is copied.13Reviewnotebookcheck.net/Forerunner-970-Garmin-replaces-Forerunner-965-with-new-smartwatch-that-arrives-for-749.1017596.0.htmlRead 23 October 2026Notebookcheck's headline says Garmin replaces the Forerunner 965 with the Forerunner 970 and the text says the 970 effectively succeeds the 965.

Launch price (US)iThe maker's US launch MSRP for the stated configuration, excluding tax. Current store prices and later discounts do not qualify.

$349.993Press releasegarmin.com/en-US/newsroom/press-release/sports-fitness/garmin-celebrates-global-running-day-with-the-introduction-of-the-forerunner-255-seriesRead 11 October 2026Suggested retail price $349.99 for Forerunner 255 and 255S. Music models are $399.99.

From $599.991Maker product pagegarmin.com/en-US/p/886725Read 10 October 20264Press releasegarmin.com/en-US/newsroom/press-release/sports-fitness/garmin-adds-amoled-displays-to-its-next-gen-forerunner-265-and-forerunner-965-gps-running-watchesRead 10 October 20265Press releasegarmin.com/it-IT/newsroom/forerunner-265-965-amoledRead 10 October 20266Maker product pagegarmin.com/de-DE/p/886725Read 10 October 20267Maker product pagegarmin.com/en-GB/p/886725Read 10 October 2026

Launch price (EU)iThe maker's euro launch price for the stated configuration, including VAT as published. Current store prices and later discounts do not qualify.

€349.994Press articlenextpit.de/news/garmin-forerunner-255-und-955-vorgestellt-touchscreen-mehr-akkuRead 11 October 2026nextpit.de, 1 June 2022: the Forerunner 255 costs 349,99 EUR in every size, the Music edition 50 EUR more. German price incl. VAT.

From €649.991Maker product pagegarmin.com/en-US/p/886725Read 10 October 20264Press releasegarmin.com/en-US/newsroom/press-release/sports-fitness/garmin-adds-amoled-displays-to-its-next-gen-forerunner-265-and-forerunner-965-gps-running-watchesRead 10 October 20265Press releasegarmin.com/it-IT/newsroom/forerunner-265-965-amoledRead 10 October 20266Maker product pagegarmin.com/de-DE/p/886725Read 10 October 20267Maker product pagegarmin.com/en-GB/p/886725Read 10 October 2026

MarketsiISO country or region codes where this exact model or variant is sold. A source page's language does not establish availability.

US, DE3Press releasegarmin.com/en-US/newsroom/press-release/sports-fitness/garmin-celebrates-global-running-day-with-the-introduction-of-the-forerunner-255-seriesRead 11 October 2026US release with US dollar suggested retail prices.4Press articlenextpit.de/news/garmin-forerunner-255-und-955-vorgestellt-touchscreen-mehr-akkuRead 11 October 2026German launch pricing in euros. Documented subset together with the US release.

US, DE, FR, GB5Press releasegarmin.com/it-IT/newsroom/forerunner-265-965-amoledRead 10 October 2026Garmin DE, FR and GB store pages list the international SKUs 010-02809-10, -11 and -12. The US store lists -00, -01 and -02.7Maker product pagegarmin.com/en-GB/p/886725Read 10 October 2026Same SKUs are sold in Germany, France and the UK.

ColoursiThe maker's own colour names

Tidal Blue1Maker product pagegarmin.com/en-US/p/780139/pn/010-02641-01Read 11 October 2026US store lists Tidal Blue for this model. Other regional colours exist but are not listed on this page.3Press releasegarmin.com/en-US/newsroom/press-release/sports-fitness/garmin-celebrates-global-running-day-with-the-introduction-of-the-forerunner-255-seriesRead 11 October 2026Release names tidal blue as a new colour.

Carbon Gray DLC Titanium Bezel with Black Case, Titanium Bezel with Whitestone Case1Maker product pagegarmin.com/en-US/p/886725Read 10 October 2026Maker US page lists three colorways. 010-02809-00 Carbon Gray DLC Titanium Bezel with Black Case and Black/Powder Gray Silicone Band. 010-02809-01 Titanium Bezel with Whitestone Case and Whitestone/Powder Gray Silicone Band. 010-02809-02 Carbon Gray DLC Titanium Bezel with Black Case and Amp Yellow/Black Silicone Band. The case colour is stored in Colors and the band in Strap.

Segment

Sport1Maker product pagegarmin.com/en-US/p/780139/pn/010-02641-01Read 11 October 2026Garmin presents it as a running smartwatch.

Sport1Maker product pagegarmin.com/en-US/p/886725Read 10 October 2026Maker category: premium running watch for runners and triathletes (Running and Multisport lines).

OS updates promisediYears of explicitly promised OS updates. A security-only support period does not establish an OS-upgrade promise.

Not available

Not available

Security updates untiliExact end date published for security-update support of this model. Do not calculate it from a stated number of years. A security-only period does not promise OS upgrades.

Not available

Not available

Case

3 of 8 differ

Case sizeiMarketed case-size options. The marketed size can differ from physical case height, such as ceramic editions. Base dimensions describe the smallest base-material case.

46mm1Maker product pagegarmin.com/en-US/p/780139/pn/010-02641-01Read 11 October 2026

47mm1Maker product pagegarmin.com/en-US/p/886725Read 10 October 2026Maker launch release names a 47 mm case. Physical size is 47.2 x 47.2 x 13.2 mm.4Press releasegarmin.com/en-US/newsroom/press-release/sports-fitness/garmin-adds-amoled-displays-to-its-next-gen-forerunner-265-and-forerunner-965-gps-running-watchesRead 10 October 2026

Case shape

Round1Maker product pagegarmin.com/en-US/p/780139/pn/010-02641-01Read 11 October 2026Specs describe the display as a diameter and the pictured case is round.

Round1Maker product pagegarmin.com/en-US/p/886725Read 10 October 2026Round case and round 1.4 inch diameter display (manual and product images).

Case materialiMaterial of the housing body, not just the bezel. Use Mixed when the maker describes a mixture of housing/frame materials. Read the published-material field for the parts and proportions.

Fibre-reinforced polymer6Reviewandroidcentral.com/wearables/garmin-forerunner-255-reviewRead 11 October 2026Review spec box: materials fiber-reinforced polymer. The maker lists only the bezel as fiber-reinforced polymer and no other case material.7Spec databasegadgetsandwearables.com/technical-specs/garmin-forerunner-255Read 11 October 2026Spec table: fiber-reinforced polymer bezel and case, silicone strap.

Fibre-reinforced polymer12Spec databasegadgetsandwearables.com/technical-specs/garmin-forerunner-965Read 10 October 2026Spec table, Material: titanium bezel, fiber-reinforced polymer case, silicone strap. The maker names only the bezel, lens and strap.

Case material (as published)

Fiber-reinforced polymer6Reviewandroidcentral.com/wearables/garmin-forerunner-255-reviewRead 11 October 2026Review spec box wording.7Spec databasegadgetsandwearables.com/technical-specs/garmin-forerunner-255Read 11 October 2026Spec table wording.

Fiber-reinforced polymer case with titanium bezel1Maker product pagegarmin.com/en-US/p/886725Read 10 October 2026Maker names only the titanium bezel, the Gorilla Glass lens and the silicone strap. The fiber-reinforced polymer case comes from the Gadgets and Wearables spec table.12Spec databasegadgetsandwearables.com/technical-specs/garmin-forerunner-965Read 10 October 2026Same table row: titanium bezel with a fiber-reinforced polymer case.

BackiMaterial of the back of the smallest base-material case. Other materials or regional editions can differ. See source notes.

Not available

Not available

Case dimensionsiPhysical case height, width and thickness. The source note states exclusions such as the heart-rate sensor protrusion.

Height45.6Width45.6Thickness12.9mm(1.8 × 1.8 × 0.5 in)1Maker product pagegarmin.com/en-US/p/780139/pn/010-02641-01Read 11 October 2026Specs: Physical size 45.6 x 45.6 x 12.9 mm. Not stated whether the heart rate sensor bump is included.

Height47.2Width47.2Thickness13.2mm(1.9 × 1.9 × 0.5 in)1Maker product pagegarmin.com/en-US/p/886725Read 10 October 2026Specs tab: Physical size 47.2 x 47.2 x 13.2 mm. The page does not say whether the heart rate sensor bump is included.

Weight (case only)iWatch body without a strap. An unqualified published weight must not be assumed to exclude the strap.

Not available

Not available

Weight with strapiWatch with the stated strap attached. Strap material and case size belong in the source note. Reviewer measurements belong in measured fields.

Not available

Not available

Durability

0 of 8 differ

Water resistanceiStatic water-pressure rating in atmospheres. It is not a safe swimming or diving depth. Diving limits are listed separately.

5ATM1Maker product pagegarmin.com/en-US/p/780139/pn/010-02641-01Read 11 October 2026Specs: Water rating 5 ATM.

5ATM1Maker product pagegarmin.com/en-US/p/886725Read 10 October 2026Specs: water rating 5 ATM. Manual footnote: the device withstands pressure equivalent to a depth of 50 m. Garmin water ratings state no standard.

Water resistance standard

Not available

Not available

Dust and water rating

Not available

Not available

Dive rating

Not available

Not available

Max dive depthiMaker-rated depth for the stated diving use, not a conversion from the water-resistance pressure rating.

Not available

Not available

MIL-STD-810iMaker claim that the watch was tested against specified MIL-STD-810 methods. It is not a guarantee for every military-standard test.

Not available

Not available

MIL-STD-810 tests

Not available

Not available

Operating temperatureiPublished operating range. Source notes identify on-wrist limits and other operating conditions. Storage or charging limits are excluded.

Min-20Max60°C2Owner's manualwww8.garmin.com/manuals/webhelp/GUID-676967A0-1B23-4384-9BC9-76F3D643F1C8/EN-US/Forerunner_255_OM_EN-US.pdfRead 11 October 2026Specifications page 101: operating temperature -20 to 60 C. Charging range 0 to 45 C is excluded.

Min-20Max60°C2Owner's manualwww8.garmin.com/manuals/webhelp/GUID-0221611A-992D-495E-8DED-1DD448F7A066/EN-US/Forerunner_965_OM_EN-US.pdfRead 10 October 2026Specifications: operating temperature range -20 to 60 C. The charging range of 0 to 45 C is not stored.

Display

7 of 14 differ

Display type

MIP1Maker product pagegarmin.com/en-US/p/780139/pn/010-02641-01Read 11 October 2026Specs: Display type sunlight-visible, transflective memory-in-pixel (MIP).

OLED1Maker product pagegarmin.com/en-US/p/886725Read 10 October 2026

Display type (as published)

Sunlight-visible, transflective memory-in-pixel (MIP)1Maker product pagegarmin.com/en-US/p/780139/pn/010-02641-01Read 11 October 2026

AMOLED1Maker product pagegarmin.com/en-US/p/886725Read 10 October 2026Specs: Display type AMOLED (optional always-on mode).

Screen sizeiPublished active display diagonal for a rectangular display, or diameter for a round display. Do not calculate it from pixels or display area.

1.3in(3.3 cm)1Maker product pagegarmin.com/en-US/p/780139/pn/010-02641-01Read 11 October 2026Specs: 1.3 inch (33 mm) diameter.

1.4in(3.6 cm)1Maker product pagegarmin.com/en-US/p/886725Read 10 October 2026Specs: Display size 1.4 inch (35.4 mm) diameter. Round display.

Resolution

260 × 260px1Maker product pagegarmin.com/en-US/p/780139/pn/010-02641-01Read 11 October 2026Specs: 260 x 260 pixels.

454 × 454px1Maker product pagegarmin.com/en-US/p/886725Read 10 October 2026

Pixel densityiPublished pixel density. A rectangular diagonal formula must not be applied to a round display.

Not available

Not available

Display area

Not available

Not available

Touchscreen

No2Owner's manualwww8.garmin.com/manuals/webhelp/GUID-676967A0-1B23-4384-9BC9-76F3D643F1C8/EN-US/Forerunner_255_OM_EN-US.pdfRead 11 October 2026The manual describes control only with the LIGHT, UP, DOWN, BACK and START/STOP buttons and never mentions touch input.

Yes1Maker product pagegarmin.com/en-US/p/886725Read 10 October 2026

Max refresh rateiHighest published display refresh rate in active operation.

Not available

Not available

Min refresh rateiLowest published display refresh rate, usually in always-on mode. It is not the active-use minimum unless stated.

Not available

Not available

Peak brightnessiMaker peak-brightness claim. It may apply to a small area or bright ambient light. Full-screen limits and battery/temperature conditions belong in source notes.

Not available

Not available

Minimum brightness

Not available

Not available

Always-on display

Not available

Yes1Maker product pagegarmin.com/en-US/p/886725Read 10 October 2026Specs: AMOLED (optional always-on mode).

Display cover

Gorilla Glass1Maker product pagegarmin.com/en-US/p/780139/pn/010-02641-01Read 11 October 2026

Gorilla Glass1Maker product pagegarmin.com/en-US/p/886725Read 10 October 2026

Display cover (as published)

Corning Gorilla Glass 31Maker product pagegarmin.com/en-US/p/780139/pn/010-02641-01Read 11 October 2026Specs: Lens material Corning Gorilla Glass 3. Bezel material is fiber-reinforced polymer. Case material is not listed, so case_material is not stored.

Corning Gorilla Glass 3 DX1Maker product pagegarmin.com/en-US/p/886725Read 10 October 2026Specs: lens material Corning Gorilla Glass 3 DX. Bezel material is titanium and strap material is silicone.

Platform

2 of 15 differ

Platform

Proprietary1Maker product pagegarmin.com/en-US/p/780139/pn/010-02641-01Read 11 October 2026Garmin watch software with downloadable Connect IQ watch faces, data fields and apps.

Proprietary12Spec databasegadgetsandwearables.com/technical-specs/garmin-forerunner-965Read 10 October 2026Daily smart features: Operating system at launch Garmin proprietary.

OS at launch

Not available

Not available

Software

Not available

Not available

Latest OS

Not available

Not available

Works with

iOS, Android1Maker product pagegarmin.com/en-US/p/780139/pn/010-02641-01Read 11 October 2026

iOS, Android1Maker product pagegarmin.com/en-US/p/886725Read 10 October 2026Specs: smartphone compatibility iPhone and Android.

Phone requirement

Not available

Not available

App store

Yes1Maker product pagegarmin.com/en-US/p/780139/pn/010-02641-01Read 11 October 2026Specs list Connect IQ downloadable watch faces, data fields and apps and an on-device Connect IQ store.

Yes1Maker product pagegarmin.com/en-US/p/886725Read 10 October 2026Specs: Connect IQ downloadable watch faces, data fields and apps, plus an on-device Connect IQ Store.

Voice assistants

Not available

Not available

Chipset

Not available

NXP RT59510Press articletechinsights.com/blog/deep-dive-teardown-garmin-forerunner-965-a04578-smartwatchRead 10 October 2026Teardown: NXP supplied the MRT595SFFOC MCU (RT595 family) as the main MCU. Garmin does not publish a chipset.

Process

Not available

Not available

CPU cores

Not available

Not available

CPU configuration

Not available

Not available

Max CPU clock

Not available

Not available

GPU

Not available

Not available

Low-power coprocessor

Not available

Ambiq Apollo3 Blue10Press articletechinsights.com/blog/deep-dive-teardown-garmin-forerunner-965-a04578-smartwatchRead 10 October 2026Teardown: Ambiq Apollo3 Blue MCU collects and prepares all sensor data for the main MCU.

Memory

1 of 2 differ

RAMiKeep published GB values as stated. Convert a source explicitly labelled MB using 1000 MB per GB and preserve its original figure and unit in the note. Do not assume MB means MiB. Convert explicit MiB or GiB to decimal GB through their byte definitions, recording the conversion in the note. This normalization does not establish an exact physical byte count.

Not available

Not available

StorageiTotal built-in storage the maker states, in decimal GB. Space available to the user is lower and goes in the source note. A figure the maker gives only as available space is not stored.

4GB1Maker product pagegarmin.com/en-US/p/780139/pn/010-02641-01Read 11 October 2026Specs: Memory/History 4 GB. The manual lists up to 4 GB of music storage for Music models only.2Owner's manualwww8.garmin.com/manuals/webhelp/GUID-676967A0-1B23-4384-9BC9-76F3D643F1C8/EN-US/Forerunner_255_OM_EN-US.pdfRead 11 October 2026Music storage up to 4 GB applies to Music models.

32GB1Maker product pagegarmin.com/en-US/p/886725Read 10 October 2026Specs: Memory/History 32 GB. Maps, music and activity history share it.10Press articletechinsights.com/blog/deep-dive-teardown-garmin-forerunner-965-a04578-smartwatchRead 10 October 2026Teardown: Samsung KLMBG2JETD-B041 32 GB NAND flash. Agrees with the maker's 32 GB.

Health sensors

2 of 8 differ

Heart rate sensor

Garmin Elevate wrist heart rate monitor1Maker product pagegarmin.com/en-US/p/780139/pn/010-02641-01Read 11 October 2026

Garmin Elevate wrist heart rate monitor1Maker product pagegarmin.com/en-US/p/886725Read 10 October 2026Specs: Garmin Elevate wrist heart rate monitor. No generation is stated.

ECG capabilityiElectrical heart sensing hardware with an ECG capability. The ECG app can require an eligible country, age and paired phone.

No7Spec databasegadgetsandwearables.com/technical-specs/garmin-forerunner-255Read 11 October 2026Spec table: electrical heart rate No, ECG No. The Garmin product page lists no ECG sensor or app.

No11Reviewdcrainmaker.com/2023/03/garmin-forerunner-965-depth-review.htmlRead 10 October 2026Review: no ECG hardware in the Forerunner 965, confirmed by Garmin and visible from the underside of the unit.

Blood oxygen sensingiBlood-oxygen sensing capability. App availability and medical status vary by market.

Yes1Maker product pagegarmin.com/en-US/p/780139/pn/010-02641-01Read 11 October 2026Specs: Pulse Ox blood oxygen, spot-check and optional all-day acclimation and in sleep. Not available in all countries.

Yes1Maker product pagegarmin.com/en-US/p/886725Read 10 October 2026Specs: Pulse Ox blood oxygen saturation monitor, yes with spot-check and optional all-day acclimation and sleep tracking. Not a medical device.

Skin temperature sensingiA sensor or supported function that measures skin temperature. It is not a core-body thermometer.

No2Owner's manualwww8.garmin.com/manuals/webhelp/GUID-676967A0-1B23-4384-9BC9-76F3D643F1C8/EN-US/Forerunner_255_OM_EN-US.pdfRead 11 October 2026The manual describes an internal temperature sensor whose reading is affected by body temperature and offers an external tempe sensor for ambient temperature. No skin temperature function is described.7Spec databasegadgetsandwearables.com/technical-specs/garmin-forerunner-255Read 11 October 2026Spec table: skin temperature No. The Garmin page lists only a thermometer.

No1Maker product pagegarmin.com/en-US/p/886725Read 10 October 2026Specs list a Thermometer, which is a temperature sensor, and no skin-temperature metric. Gadgets and Wearables lists skin temperature as No.11Reviewdcrainmaker.com/2023/03/garmin-forerunner-965-depth-review.htmlRead 10 October 2026Review lists no skin-temperature feature for the Forerunner 965.12Spec databasegadgetsandwearables.com/technical-specs/garmin-forerunner-965Read 10 October 2026Health table: Skin temperature No.

Blood pressure featureiPublished blood-pressure feature category. Hypertension notifications are not numerical blood-pressure readings.

Not available

None1Maker product pagegarmin.com/en-US/p/886725Read 10 October 2026Specs list no blood pressure feature. Gadgets and Wearables lists blood pressure as No.12Spec databasegadgetsandwearables.com/technical-specs/garmin-forerunner-965Read 10 October 2026Health table: Blood pressure No.

Body composition sensor

Not available

Not available

Skin conductance (EDA)

Not available

No12Spec databasegadgetsandwearables.com/technical-specs/garmin-forerunner-965Read 10 October 2026Sensors table: galvanic skin response No.

Medical clearancesiNamed regulatory clearances and their jurisdiction. General water resistance or an ECG sensor does not establish medical clearance.

Not available

Not available

Motion and environment sensors

1 of 9 differ

Accelerometer

Yes1Maker product pagegarmin.com/en-US/p/780139/pn/010-02641-01Read 11 October 2026

Yes1Maker product pagegarmin.com/en-US/p/886725Read 10 October 2026

Accelerometer range

Not available

Not available

Gyroscope

Yes1Maker product pagegarmin.com/en-US/p/780139/pn/010-02641-01Read 11 October 2026

Yes1Maker product pagegarmin.com/en-US/p/886725Read 10 October 2026

Barometric altimeter

Yes1Maker product pagegarmin.com/en-US/p/780139/pn/010-02641-01Read 11 October 2026

Yes1Maker product pagegarmin.com/en-US/p/886725Read 10 October 2026Specs: barometric altimeter.

Compass

Yes1Maker product pagegarmin.com/en-US/p/780139/pn/010-02641-01Read 11 October 2026

Yes1Maker product pagegarmin.com/en-US/p/886725Read 10 October 2026

Ambient light sensor

No7Spec databasegadgetsandwearables.com/technical-specs/garmin-forerunner-255Read 11 October 2026Spec table: ambient light sensor No. The Garmin sensor list has none.

Yes1Maker product pagegarmin.com/en-US/p/886725Read 10 October 2026

Depth gauge

Not available

Not available

Depth gauge rangeiPublished measurement range of the depth gauge, distinct from maximum diving depth and water-pressure resistance.

Not available

Not available

Water temperature sensor

Not available

Not available

Health and fitness

2 of 5 differ

Health featuresiSupported health functions with country, phone and subscription restrictions in the source notes. Upcoming functions are not counted as available.

Continuous heart rate, Heart rate alerts, Blood oxygen app, Heart rate variability, Sleep tracking, Sleep stages, Stress tracking, Cycle tracking1Maker product pagegarmin.com/en-US/p/780139/pn/010-02641-01Read 11 October 2026Specs list heart rate every second, high and low abnormal heart rate alerts, Pulse Ox, HRV status, advanced sleep, all-day stress and women's health in Garmin Connect. Sleep stages are in the manual.2Owner's manualwww8.garmin.com/manuals/webhelp/GUID-676967A0-1B23-4384-9BC9-76F3D643F1C8/EN-US/Forerunner_255_OM_EN-US.pdfRead 11 October 2026Sleep statistics include total hours of sleep, sleep stages and sleep score (page 42 area).

Continuous heart rate, Heart rate alerts, Blood oxygen app, Heart rate variability, Sleep tracking, Sleep stages, Stress tracking, Readiness score, Cycle tracking1Maker product pagegarmin.com/en-US/p/886725Read 10 October 2026Specs list heart rate every second, high and low abnormal heart rate alerts, Pulse Ox, HRV status, advanced sleep, all-day stress, training readiness and women's health in Garmin Connect. Sleep stages are in the manual.2Owner's manualwww8.garmin.com/manuals/webhelp/GUID-0221611A-992D-495E-8DED-1DD448F7A066/EN-US/Forerunner_965_OM_EN-US.pdfRead 10 October 2026Sleep score screen displays total sleep time, a sleep score and sleep stage information. Menstrual cycle tracking is in the Garmin Connect section.

Fitness featuresiSupported workout functions. A sport-profile name alone does not prove advanced metrics such as running power or running dynamics. Trackback follows the recorded route back to the start. A compass arrow that points straight to the start does not count.

VO2 max, Training load, Recovery advice, Running dynamics, Running power, Pool swim, Open water swim, Strength rep counting, Interval workouts, Route navigation, Trackback1Maker product pagegarmin.com/en-US/p/780139/pn/010-02641-01Read 11 October 2026Specs list VO2 Max (run), training load, recovery time, running dynamics, running power, pool and open-water swim metrics, automatic rep counting, interval training, course guidance and TracBack. Running dynamics need a pod or HRM-Pro. No golf course or ClimbPro entry.2Owner's manualwww8.garmin.com/manuals/webhelp/GUID-676967A0-1B23-4384-9BC9-76F3D643F1C8/EN-US/Forerunner_255_OM_EN-US.pdfRead 11 October 2026Page 62: running power can be measured with a compatible running dynamics accessory or the watch sensors. Page 63: Running Dynamics Pod records running dynamics.

VO2 max, Training load, Recovery advice, Running dynamics, Running power, Pool swim, Open water swim, Strength rep counting, Interval workouts, Route navigation, Turn-by-turn navigation, Trackback, Climb detection, Golf courses, Ski resort maps1Maker product pagegarmin.com/en-US/p/886725Read 10 October 2026Specs list VO2 Max (run), training load, recovery time, running dynamics, running power, pool and open-water swim metrics, automatic rep counting, interval training, course guidance, TracBack, ClimbPro, preloaded ski resort maps and 43,000 preloaded golf courses. Running dynamics such as ground contact time balance need an accessory (HRM-Pro or pod). Turn-by-turn is in the manual.2Owner's manualwww8.garmin.com/manuals/webhelp/GUID-0221611A-992D-495E-8DED-1DD448F7A066/EN-US/Forerunner_965_OM_EN-US.pdfRead 10 October 2026Course turn-by-turn directions: view a list of turn-by-turn directions for your route.

Sport profilesiPublished count of distinct sport/activity profiles. A claim such as 180+ is not an exact integer count.

Not available

Not available

Dive modesiActual supported dive modes. Water resistance or a depth app alone does not establish decompression-capable scuba support.

Not available

Not available

External sensorsiTypes of external workout sensors the watch can pair with. GPS reception, phone data and built-in sensors do not qualify.

Heart rate strap, Power meter, Speed and cadence, Foot pod, Smart trainer1Maker product pagegarmin.com/en-US/p/780139/pn/010-02641-01Read 11 October 2026Specs list heart rate from external HRM, power meter compatible, speed and cadence sensor support, foot pod capable and smart trainer control.

Heart rate strap, Power meter, Speed and cadence, Foot pod, Smart trainer1Maker product pagegarmin.com/en-US/p/886725Read 10 October 2026Specs list foot pod capable, speed and cadence sensor support, power meter compatible, smart trainer control and HR broadcast. Heart rate monitor pairing is in the manual (Pairing Your Wireless Sensors).2Owner's manualwww8.garmin.com/manuals/webhelp/GUID-0221611A-992D-495E-8DED-1DD448F7A066/EN-US/Forerunner_965_OM_EN-US.pdfRead 10 October 2026Pairing Your Wireless Sensors: ANT+ or Bluetooth sensors including heart rate monitors.

Safety

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Fall detectioniAutomatic fall detection. Incident detection restricted to recorded workouts is not counted as general fall detection.

No1Maker product pagegarmin.com/en-US/p/780139/pn/010-02641-01Read 11 October 2026Specs list only incident detection during select activities, which is limited to certain outdoor activities. Not counted as general fall detection.2Owner's manualwww8.garmin.com/manuals/webhelp/GUID-676967A0-1B23-4384-9BC9-76F3D643F1C8/EN-US/Forerunner_255_OM_EN-US.pdfRead 11 October 2026Page 83: incident detection is a supplemental feature available only for certain outdoor activities.

No2Owner's manualwww8.garmin.com/manuals/webhelp/GUID-0221611A-992D-495E-8DED-1DD448F7A066/EN-US/Forerunner_965_OM_EN-US.pdfRead 10 October 2026Incident detection works only during certain outdoor activities. It is not general fall detection.

Car crash detection

Not available

Not available

Emergency SOSiA manual emergency alert to emergency services or preset contacts. Source notes identify the recipient, paired-phone requirement and country limits. Satellite is listed separately.

Yes1Maker product pagegarmin.com/en-US/p/780139/pn/010-02641-01Read 11 October 2026Specs list Assistance. The manual says it sends a message with name, LiveTrack link and GPS location to emergency contacts through a paired phone with data. It does not call emergency services.2Owner's manualwww8.garmin.com/manuals/webhelp/GUID-676967A0-1B23-4384-9BC9-76F3D643F1C8/EN-US/Forerunner_255_OM_EN-US.pdfRead 11 October 2026Safety and Tracking, page 84: Assistance sends a message with name, LiveTrack link and GPS location to emergency contacts. Paired phone with data plan required.

Yes1Maker product pagegarmin.com/en-US/p/886725Read 10 October 2026Specs: Safety and Tracking lists Assistance. Assistance sends the location to preset emergency contacts through the paired phone. It does not call emergency services.

Emergency sireniPublished or measured siren sound level in decibels. Audible distance alone does not establish this value. Measurement distance belongs in source notes.

Not available

Not available

Live location sharingiShares live location during supported use. A paired phone or data subscription may be required.

Yes1Maker product pagegarmin.com/en-US/p/780139/pn/010-02641-01Read 11 October 2026Specs list live event sharing (Android only). The manual lists LiveTrack.2Owner's manualwww8.garmin.com/manuals/webhelp/GUID-676967A0-1B23-4384-9BC9-76F3D643F1C8/EN-US/Forerunner_255_OM_EN-US.pdfRead 11 October 2026Safety and Tracking: LiveTrack lets friends and family follow activities in real time.

Yes1Maker product pagegarmin.com/en-US/p/886725Read 10 October 2026Specs: live event sharing (LiveTrack).

Dedicated LED flashlightiA dedicated hardware LED flashlight. Lighting the display white is not counted.

No2Owner's manualwww8.garmin.com/manuals/webhelp/GUID-676967A0-1B23-4384-9BC9-76F3D643F1C8/EN-US/Forerunner_255_OM_EN-US.pdfRead 11 October 2026Controls menu: Flashlight turns on the screen to use the watch as a flashlight. A lit display is not a dedicated LED.7Spec databasegadgetsandwearables.com/technical-specs/garmin-forerunner-255Read 11 October 2026Spec table: LED flashlight No, matching the manual.

No2Owner's manualwww8.garmin.com/manuals/webhelp/GUID-0221611A-992D-495E-8DED-1DD448F7A066/EN-US/Forerunner_965_OM_EN-US.pdfRead 10 October 2026Using the Flashlight Screen: the screen turns on to use the watch as a flashlight. No dedicated LED, so this is not counted.

Positioning

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PositioningiPublished satellite systems and signal bands. Do not infer bands from dual-frequency support alone.

GPS, GLONASS, Galileo, QZSS, BeiDou1Maker product pagegarmin.com/en-US/p/780139/pn/010-02641-01Read 11 October 2026Specs list GPS, GLONASS, Galileo, QZSS and BeiDou. Multi-band GPS is listed. Signal bands are not named.

GPS, GLONASS, Galileo, QZSS, BeiDou1Maker product pagegarmin.com/en-US/p/886725Read 10 October 2026Specs sensors table lists GPS, GLONASS, Galileo, QZSS and BeiDou with SatIQ technology.

Dual-band GNSSiMaker-stated dual-frequency satellite reception. Supported constellations and signal bands are listed separately.

Yes1Maker product pagegarmin.com/en-US/p/780139/pn/010-02641-01Read 11 October 2026Specs list Multi-band GPS. Battery table calls it All-Systems GNSS plus Multi-Band.

Yes1Maker product pagegarmin.com/en-US/p/886725Read 10 October 2026Specs list Multi-band GPS. The battery table calls it All-Systems GNSS plus Multi-Band.

Offline mapsiMap data stored on the watch and usable without live phone data. GPX routes or breadcrumb tracks alone are not offline maps.

No1Maker product pagegarmin.com/en-US/p/780139/pn/010-02641-01Read 11 October 2026No map entry in the specs. Only breadcrumb trail, courses and TracBack are listed, which are not offline maps.

Yes1Maker product pagegarmin.com/en-US/p/886725Read 10 October 2026Specs list built-in mapping and preloaded road and trail maps.

Connectivity

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BluetoothiPublished Bluetooth support for this model. The version is recorded separately. Unknown version does not mean the radio is absent.

Yes1Maker product pagegarmin.com/en-US/p/780139/pn/010-02641-01Read 11 October 2026

Yes1Maker product pagegarmin.com/en-US/p/886725Read 10 October 2026Specs: connectivity Bluetooth, ANT+ and Wi-Fi.

Bluetooth version

Not available

5.010Press articletechinsights.com/blog/deep-dive-teardown-garmin-forerunner-965-a04578-smartwatchRead 10 October 2026Teardown: Silicon Labs RS9116N-SB00-B00 2.4 GHz Wi-Fi 4 and Bluetooth 5.0 module. The Garmin spec lists no Bluetooth version.

Wi-FiiPublished Wi-Fi support for this model. The standard and bands are recorded separately. Unknown standard does not mean Wi-Fi is absent.

No2Owner's manualwww8.garmin.com/manuals/webhelp/GUID-676967A0-1B23-4384-9BC9-76F3D643F1C8/EN-US/Forerunner_255_OM_EN-US.pdfRead 11 October 2026Status icons: Wi-Fi technology status for Forerunner music watches only. The spec table lists no Wi-Fi for this model.

Yes1Maker product pagegarmin.com/en-US/p/886725Read 10 October 2026Specs: connectivity Bluetooth, ANT+ and Wi-Fi.

Wi-Fi standard

Not available

Wi-Fi 43Regulatory filingstatic.garmin.com/pumac/Forerunner%20965.pdfRead 10 October 2026Same report lists 802.11b/g/n modulation (DSSS for b, OFDM for g and n) on 2412-2462 MHz. That is Wi-Fi 4.

Wi-Fi bands

Not available

2.4 GHz2Owner's manualwww8.garmin.com/manuals/webhelp/GUID-0221611A-992D-495E-8DED-1DD448F7A066/EN-US/Forerunner_965_OM_EN-US.pdfRead 10 October 2026Specifications: EU wireless frequencies 2.4 GHz at 18.6 dBm maximum. Wi-Fi is set up in the Connecting to a Wi-Fi Network section. The Garmin generic Wi-Fi FAQ states 2.4 GHz only.

CellulariTrue when a cellular edition is sold. A variant row states whether that individual model has cellular hardware.

No1Maker product pagegarmin.com/en-US/p/780139/pn/010-02641-01Read 11 October 2026Specs list Connectivity as Bluetooth and ANT+ only. No Wi-Fi and no cellular.

No12Spec databasegadgetsandwearables.com/technical-specs/garmin-forerunner-965Read 10 October 2026Daily smart features: Cellular No. The maker lists no LTE. DC Rainmaker also says the watch has no LTE.

Network

Not available

Not available

4G bandsiPublished LTE bands for the stated regional cellular model. Do not transfer bands to another region or Wi-Fi-only model.

Not available

Not available

5G bandsiPublished 5G NR bands for the stated regional cellular model. RedCap support does not establish conventional full-bandwidth phone 5G.

Not available

Not available

NFCiSome regions sell an NFC edition, so it is per variant.

Yes1Maker product pagegarmin.com/en-US/p/780139/pn/010-02641-01Read 11 October 2026Garmin Pay contactless payments are listed. NFC itself is not named in the specs.

Yes2Owner's manualwww8.garmin.com/manuals/webhelp/GUID-0221611A-992D-495E-8DED-1DD448F7A066/EN-US/Forerunner_965_OM_EN-US.pdfRead 10 October 2026Specifications: EU wireless frequencies include 13.56 MHz. Garmin Pay payments use NFC.

Contactless payments

Yes1Maker product pagegarmin.com/en-US/p/780139/pn/010-02641-01Read 11 October 2026Garmin Pay is listed.

Yes1Maker product pagegarmin.com/en-US/p/886725Read 10 October 2026Specs list Garmin Pay contactless payments. The manual EU wireless table lists 13.56 MHz (NFC).

Payment services

Garmin Pay1Maker product pagegarmin.com/en-US/p/780139/pn/010-02641-01Read 11 October 2026

Garmin Pay1Maker product pagegarmin.com/en-US/p/886725Read 10 October 2026

Ultra-wideband

No7Spec databasegadgetsandwearables.com/technical-specs/garmin-forerunner-255Read 11 October 2026Spec table: UWB No. Garmin lists Bluetooth and ANT+ only.

Not available

Satellite

Not available

Not available

ANT+

Yes1Maker product pagegarmin.com/en-US/p/780139/pn/010-02641-01Read 11 October 2026

Yes1Maker product pagegarmin.com/en-US/p/886725Read 10 October 2026Specs: connectivity Bluetooth, ANT+ and Wi-Fi.

Audio

2 of 4 differ

Speaker

No7Spec databasegadgetsandwearables.com/technical-specs/garmin-forerunner-255Read 11 October 2026Spec table: speakers No. Garmin lists no voice calls, speaker or music playback for this non-music model.

No12Spec databasegadgetsandwearables.com/technical-specs/garmin-forerunner-965Read 10 October 2026Sensors table: Speakers No and Microphone No. The maker lists no speaker and no voice calls. Its Garmin Pay and Bluetooth entries are not used.

Microphones

07Spec databasegadgetsandwearables.com/technical-specs/garmin-forerunner-255Read 11 October 2026Spec table: microphone No. Garmin lists no voice calls or microphone for this model.

Not available

Calls on the watchiVoice-call capability of the marketed model, including sold cellular editions. Variant radio capability and paired-phone requirements still apply.

None1Maker product pagegarmin.com/en-US/p/780139/pn/010-02641-01Read 11 October 2026Specs list text response and reject phone call with text only. No voice call, speaker or microphone entry and no cellular. No voice calls on the watch.

None1Maker product pagegarmin.com/en-US/p/886725Read 10 October 2026Specs list only text response and reject phone call with text (Android only). No voice calls on the watch. The reviewer sources list no speaker or microphone.

Music on the watchiPlays audio stored on the watch. Remote control of phone playback or streaming alone does not qualify.

No2Owner's manualwww8.garmin.com/manuals/webhelp/GUID-676967A0-1B23-4384-9BC9-76F3D643F1C8/EN-US/Forerunner_255_OM_EN-US.pdfRead 11 October 2026Specifications page 101 lists music media storage for Forerunner music watches (Forerunner 255 Music). This model is the non-music watch.

Yes1Maker product pagegarmin.com/en-US/p/886725Read 10 October 2026Specs list music storage and plays and controls watch music.

Controls

2 of 5 differ

ButtonsiPhysical controls used to operate the watch, excluding the rotating crown and strap-release buttons. A clickable rotating crown is counted only in Crown.

52Owner's manualwww8.garmin.com/manuals/webhelp/GUID-676967A0-1B23-4384-9BC9-76F3D643F1C8/EN-US/Forerunner_255_OM_EN-US.pdfRead 11 October 2026Overview, page 2: LIGHT, UP, DOWN, BACK and START/STOP.

52Owner's manualwww8.garmin.com/manuals/webhelp/GUID-0221611A-992D-495E-8DED-1DD448F7A066/EN-US/Forerunner_965_OM_EN-US.pdfRead 10 October 2026Overview lists five buttons: LIGHT, UP, DOWN, START STOP and BACK. The touchscreen is not counted as a button.

Named operating buttonsiNames of operating buttons, excluding the crown and strap-release controls.

LIGHT, UP, DOWN, BACK, START/STOP2Owner's manualwww8.garmin.com/manuals/webhelp/GUID-676967A0-1B23-4384-9BC9-76F3D643F1C8/EN-US/Forerunner_255_OM_EN-US.pdfRead 11 October 2026Overview page 2. START and STOP share one button.

LIGHT, UP, DOWN, START/STOP, BACK2Owner's manualwww8.garmin.com/manuals/webhelp/GUID-0221611A-992D-495E-8DED-1DD448F7A066/EN-US/Forerunner_965_OM_EN-US.pdfRead 10 October 2026Overview names LIGHT, UP, DOWN, START/STOP and BACK. START and STOP share one button.

CrowniA crown that rotates to control the interface. A round push button that does not rotate is not a crown.

None2Owner's manualwww8.garmin.com/manuals/webhelp/GUID-676967A0-1B23-4384-9BC9-76F3D643F1C8/EN-US/Forerunner_255_OM_EN-US.pdfRead 11 October 2026Overview shows five buttons and no crown.

None2Owner's manualwww8.garmin.com/manuals/webhelp/GUID-0221611A-992D-495E-8DED-1DD448F7A066/EN-US/Forerunner_965_OM_EN-US.pdfRead 10 October 2026Overview lists the touchscreen and five buttons. No crown.

Rotating bezeliPhysical rotation or touch gestures around the display edge. A fixed decorative bezel is None.

None2Owner's manualwww8.garmin.com/manuals/webhelp/GUID-676967A0-1B23-4384-9BC9-76F3D643F1C8/EN-US/Forerunner_255_OM_EN-US.pdfRead 11 October 2026Overview shows five buttons and no rotating bezel.

None2Owner's manualwww8.garmin.com/manuals/webhelp/GUID-0221611A-992D-495E-8DED-1DD448F7A066/EN-US/Forerunner_965_OM_EN-US.pdfRead 10 October 2026Overview lists the touchscreen and five buttons. The bezel is fixed.

Gestures

Raise and turn your arm to turn on the backlight2Owner's manualwww8.garmin.com/manuals/webhelp/GUID-676967A0-1B23-4384-9BC9-76F3D643F1C8/EN-US/Forerunner_255_OM_EN-US.pdfRead 11 October 2026Backlight settings: Gesture turns on the backlight by raising and turning your arm to look at your wrist.

Not available

Battery and charging

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Battery capacityiPublished battery capacity for the stated case size. Rated and typical capacity are distinguished in source notes.

Not available

420mAh10Press articletechinsights.com/blog/deep-dive-teardown-garmin-forerunner-965-a04578-smartwatchRead 10 October 2026Teardown of model A04578: larger battery, 420 mAh versus 342 mAh in the Forerunner 955. Nominal pack voltage is not stated, so no Wh figure is stored.

Claimed battery lifeiMaker endurance claims with distinct operating modes and case sizes. With solar describes augmentation of that estimate, not hardware capability. Use false for ordinary claims without solar augmentation, true for explicitly solar-aided claims, and omit it when solar qualification is unclear. Source notes state AOD, GNSS, music and solar conditions. Do not create a normal-use row from an AOD-only claim. Low power denotes the maker battery-saver mode. Keep its typical, light-use and always-on claims separate from standard-mode claims. GPS power saving identifies an intermediate reduced-accuracy GNSS saving preset. Source notes retain the maker's preset name and published conditions. Max battery GPS is the distinct maximum-saving claim. When the maker has only one GPS saving preset, it is GPS power saving.

AGarmin Forerunner 255

Mode	With solar	Hours (h)
Smartwatch	No	336
GPS	No	30
GPS, all systems	No	25
GPS, dual-band	No	16

Source1Maker product pagegarmin.com/en-US/p/780139/pn/010-02641-01Read 11 October 2026Smartwatch mode up to 14 days (336 h). GPS-only GNSS up to 30 h. All-Systems GNSS up to 25 h. All-Systems plus Multi-Band up to 16 h. Manual footnote: smartwatch mode includes activity tracking, phone notifications and wrist heart rate.

BGarmin Forerunner 965

Mode	With solar	Hours (h)
Smartwatch	No	552
GPS	No	31
GPS, automatic system selection	No	22
GPS, dual-band	No	19
GPS with music	No	10.5
GPS, automatic system selection with music	No	9.5
GPS, dual-band with music	No	8.5
GPS, power saving	No	34

Source1Maker product pagegarmin.com/en-US/p/886725Read 10 October 2026Specs tab battery life and manual Specifications table, April 2026 manual. Smartwatch mode up to 23 days (552 h). GPS-only mode up to 31 h. SatIQ (AutoSelect) up to 22 h. All-Systems plus Multi-Band up to 19 h. GPS-only with music up to 10.5 h. AutoSelect with music up to 9.5 h. All-Systems plus Multi-Band with music up to 8.5 h. Manual only: UltraTrac mode with wrist-based heart rate up to 34 h. UltraTrac records track points less often, so it is stored as GPS power saving. Activity modes include wrist-based heart rate. Smartwatch mode includes activity tracking, notifications and heart rate. No always-on-display claim is published.2Owner's manualwww8.garmin.com/manuals/webhelp/GUID-0221611A-992D-495E-8DED-1DD448F7A066/EN-US/Forerunner_965_OM_EN-US.pdfRead 10 October 2026Specifications, Battery Life Information: GPS Only 31 h, Auto Select 22 h, All + Multi-Band 19 h, each with music 10.5, 9.5 and 8.5 h, UltraTrac 34 h, smartwatch mode up to 23 days.

Smartwatch mode (claimed)iMaker normal-use smartwatch claim without solar. A watch with only an explicit AOD-mode claim has no value here. Workloads differ and source notes must be read.

336h=CalculatedFrom Claimed battery life

552h=CalculatedFrom Claimed battery life

AOD battery life (up to)iMaker claimed smartwatch endurance with the always-on display enabled and without solar, for the base case. Source notes preserve workload and case conditions. This is a claim, not a measured test or an AOD-off estimate.

Not available

Not available

GPS mode (claimed)iMaker regular GPS/GNSS activity claim without solar, for the base case. AOD, multi-band, music and power-saving conditions have separate rows when published.

30h=CalculatedFrom Claimed battery life

31h=CalculatedFrom Claimed battery life

Solar chargingiPublished solar charging hardware capability. An ordinary battery estimate without solar augmentation does not prove that the watch lacks solar charging hardware.

No9Reviewdcrainmaker.com/2022/06/garmin-forerunner-multisport.htmlRead 11 October 2026Review covers the Forerunner 255, 255S, 255 Music and 255S Music with no solar model. Solar is introduced in this launch only on the Forerunner 955 Solar.

No11Reviewdcrainmaker.com/2023/03/garmin-forerunner-965-depth-review.htmlRead 10 October 2026Review comparison list: no solar edition of the Forerunner 965. Charging is by cable only.

Charging methodiThe connection at the watch, not the cable end at the USB adapter. A proprietary inductive puck is not Qi unless interoperability is explicitly established.

Proprietary plug1Maker product pagegarmin.com/en-US/p/780139/pn/010-02641-01Read 11 October 2026Specs: Garmin proprietary plug charger.

Proprietary plug1Maker product pagegarmin.com/en-US/p/886725Read 10 October 2026Specs: Garmin proprietary plug charger.

Charging guidanceiPublished charging requirements, nominal estimates and compatibility guidance. Keep adapter ratings separate from power accepted by the watch.

Not available

Not available

Max charging power (watch)iPublished maximum charging power at the watch. Adapter rating or charger input power does not prove the power accepted by the watch.

Not available

Not available

Fast chargingiAn explicit fast-charging capability claim. A short charging time or high adapter wattage alone does not qualify.

Not available

Not available

Quick charge claimiMaker claim for usage from a short charge. Source notes identify the usage workload, such as normal use or sleep tracking.

Not available

Not available

Charge 0 to 80% (claimed)iMaker claim for charging an empty battery to 80%. Charger and approximate qualifiers belong in source notes.

Not available

Not available

Full charge time (claimed)iMaker advertised nominal full-charge duration. Approximate or theoretical maker estimates are allowed, with their conditions in source notes. Partial-charge intervals do not qualify. Measured 0 to 100% tests have a separate field.

120min2Owner's manualwww8.garmin.com/manuals/webhelp/GUID-676967A0-1B23-4384-9BC9-76F3D643F1C8/EN-US/Forerunner_255_OM_EN-US.pdfRead 11 October 2026Tips for charging: charging a fully depleted battery takes up to two hours, from a Garmin approved AC adapter or a computer USB port. Stored as a nominal claim of 120 minutes with the up-to qualifier.

Not available

Measured

1 of 4 differ

Peak brightness (measured)iReviewer measurement. Source notes state screen area, mode and ambient light. A small-area peak claim cannot be replaced with a full-screen measurement.

Not available

Not available

Battery life (measured)iReviewer-observed mixed-use endurance. Source notes state case size, AOD, workout use and whether it was a complete discharge. Extrapolation from partial discharge is excluded.

Not available

Not available

Battery tests (measured)iReviewer-observed endurance, with case size and test settings in source notes. Partial-discharge projections are not stored as measured endurance.

AGarmin Forerunner 255

Not available

BGarmin Forerunner 965

Test	Hours (h)
Mixed use, always-on	145

Source11Reviewdcrainmaker.com/2023/03/garmin-forerunner-965-depth-review.htmlRead 10 October 2026Second review unit with always-on display enabled, default brightness. Charged to 100 percent on a Thursday at 8 PM, then 7.5 hours of workouts over six days (40 min run, two trainer rides, 70 min run, 3 h 10 min ride with GPS and power meter). The watch reached 5 percent by 9 PM on the Wednesday, 145 hours later. Not a complete discharge, so the figure is a lower bound and not extrapolated. The first review unit had a fault and is not used.

Full charge time (measured)iReviewer measurement from empty to full, not 0-80% or a charge from 5%. Source notes name the charger and case size.

Not available

Not available

Strap

2 of 6 differ

Lug widthiDistance between standard strap attachment lugs, not the decorative width of a proprietary strap. Unknown for custom connectors unless the maker publishes lug width.

22mm1Maker product pagegarmin.com/en-US/p/780139/pn/010-02641-01Read 11 October 2026Specs: quick release bands, 22 mm, industry standard.

22mm1Maker product pagegarmin.com/en-US/p/886725Read 10 October 2026Specs: QuickFit watch band compatible, yes (22 mm compatible).

Quick-release strapiThe supplied strap can be detached through its quick-release mechanism. Compatibility with quick-release replacement straps alone does not qualify.

Yes1Maker product pagegarmin.com/en-US/p/780139/pn/010-02641-01Read 11 October 2026

Yes1Maker product pagegarmin.com/en-US/p/886725Read 10 October 2026Specs: QuickFit watch band compatible, 22 mm.

Strap systemiPublished attachment system and compatible case sizes. Proprietary connectors are distinguished from standard spring bars.

Industry standard 22 mm quick release bands1Maker product pagegarmin.com/en-US/p/780139/pn/010-02641-01Read 11 October 2026

QuickFit 221Maker product pagegarmin.com/en-US/p/886725Read 10 October 2026Specs: QuickFit watch band compatible, 22 mm.

Strap materialiMaterial of the supplied strap for the stated package. Do not substitute material from another band sold separately.

Silicone1Maker product pagegarmin.com/en-US/p/780139/pn/010-02641-01Read 11 October 2026Specs: Strap material silicone.

Silicone1Maker product pagegarmin.com/en-US/p/886725Read 10 October 2026Specs: strap material silicone, the strap sold with the watch.

Strap

Not available

Not available

Strap sizesiPublished wrist-circumference range for the stated strap or case. Source notes distinguish an overall compatible wrist range from one supplied strap size.

AGarmin Forerunner 255

Wrist (min) (mm)	Wrist (max) (mm)
130	205

Source1Maker product pagegarmin.com/en-US/p/780139/pn/010-02641-01Read 11 October 2026Specs: fits wrists with a circumference of 130-205 mm. This is the overall range for the watch with its supplied silicone strap.

BGarmin Forerunner 965

Wrist (min) (mm)	Wrist (max) (mm)
135	205

Source1Maker product pagegarmin.com/en-US/p/886725Read 10 October 2026Specs: fits wrists with a circumference of 135-205 mm with the supplied silicone band. The page names no strap size label.

Regulatory

3 of 3 differ

FCC ID

Not available

IPH-045783Regulatory filingstatic.garmin.com/pumac/Forerunner%20965.pdfRead 10 October 2026Garmin-hosted compliance report for model A04578 (Forerunner 965): FCC ID IPH-04578, test report dated 16 December 2022.

SAR limb (US)iPublished limb/wrist SAR for the stated base regional model under the US regime. Other case sizes or radio versions can differ. Head or body SAR is excluded.

Not available

0.25W/kg3Regulatory filingstatic.garmin.com/pumac/Forerunner%20965.pdfRead 10 October 2026SAR test report, FCC regime: maximum reported 10 g SAR for the extremity (wrist) is 0.25 W/kg for Wi-Fi and below 0.1 W/kg for Bluetooth and BLE, against a 4.0 W/kg general-population limit.

SAR limb (EU)iPublished limb/wrist SAR for the stated base regional model under the EU regime. Other case sizes or radio versions can differ. Head or body SAR is excluded.

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0.25W/kg2Owner's manualwww8.garmin.com/manuals/webhelp/GUID-0221611A-992D-495E-8DED-1DD448F7A066/EN-US/Forerunner_965_OM_EN-US.pdfRead 10 October 2026Specifications: EU SAR values 0.86 W/kg torso and 0.25 W/kg limb.

Other certifications

ANT+ certified2Owner's manualwww8.garmin.com/manuals/webhelp/GUID-676967A0-1B23-4384-9BC9-76F3D643F1C8/EN-US/Forerunner_255_OM_EN-US.pdfRead 11 October 2026Front matter: this product is ANT+ certified.

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In the box

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In the box

Forerunner 255, Charge/data cable, Documentation1Maker product pagegarmin.com/en-US/p/780139/pn/010-02641-01Read 11 October 2026In the Box tab: Forerunner 255, charge/data cable, documentation.

Forerunner 965 GPS running watch, USB-C charging/data cable, Documentation1Maker product pagegarmin.com/en-US/p/886725Read 10 October 2026Maker In the Box tab: Forerunner 965 GPS running watch, USB-C charging/data cable, Documentation.

Power adapter in boxiA mains/USB power adapter is supplied. A charging cable, inductive puck or charging dock alone does not count.

No1Maker product pagegarmin.com/en-US/p/780139/pn/010-02641-01Read 11 October 2026Box lists a charge/data cable and no power adapter.

No1Maker product pagegarmin.com/en-US/p/886725Read 10 October 2026The box has a charging/data cable and no mains adapter.

Links

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Product page

www.garmin.com/en-US/p/780139/pn/010-02641-011Maker product pagegarmin.com/en-US/p/780139/pn/010-02641-01Read 11 October 2026US store page for SKU 010-02641-01.

www.garmin.com/en-US/p/8867251Maker product pagegarmin.com/en-US/p/886725Read 10 October 2026

Spec sheet

www.garmin.com/en-US/p/780139/pn/010-02641-011Maker product pagegarmin.com/en-US/p/780139/pn/010-02641-01Read 11 October 2026The specs tab of the US product page holds the full specification list for the 46 mm watch.

www.garmin.com/en-US/p/8867251Maker product pagegarmin.com/en-US/p/886725Read 10 October 2026

Manual

www8.garmin.com/manuals/webhelp/GUID-676967A0-1B23-4384-9BC9-76F3D643F1C8/EN-US/Forerunner_255_OM_EN-US.pdf2Owner's manualwww8.garmin.com/manuals/webhelp/GUID-676967A0-1B23-4384-9BC9-76F3D643F1C8/EN-US/Forerunner_255_OM_EN-US.pdfRead 11 October 2026

www8.garmin.com/manuals/webhelp/GUID-0221611A-992D-495E-8DED-1DD448F7A066/EN-US/Forerunner_965_OM_EN-US.pdf2Owner's manualwww8.garmin.com/manuals/webhelp/GUID-0221611A-992D-495E-8DED-1DD448F7A066/EN-US/Forerunner_965_OM_EN-US.pdfRead 10 October 2026Forerunner 965 Owner's Manual, English (US), revision April 2026.

EPREL registration numberiId in the EU energy label database. Each size or model of a series has its own id, so it is per variant.

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Warranty

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Manufacturer warranty (source market)iThe maker's warranty period for the exact SKU or configuration and market named in the source note. It applies only to that stated market, not every regional variant. Statutory consumer rights are excluded. The base term is stored. An extension that needs registration goes in the source note.

1year5Maker product pagegarmin.com/en-US/legal/consumer-limited-warrantyRead 11 October 2026Garmin consumer limited warranty, US: non-aviation products are free from defects in materials or workmanship for one year from the date of purchase.

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