Overdue for a refresh — no successor announced yet. Prices should be at their lowest
Best for: Competitive runners, triathletes, and ultramarathon runners who want the complete Garmin running analytics suite: full maps, running dynamics, training load, race predictor, and race day guidance — in the lightest, most running-optimised Garmin form factor.
Full details →First-generation product — no release history to base predictions on
Best for: Android and iPhone users who want smartwatch health features (ECG, body composition, AI coaching) and a premium display at a price well below Apple Watch or Galaxy Watch. A strong pick if multi-day battery is a priority alongside health monitoring.
Full details →| Garmin Forerunner 965 | Amazfit Balance | |
|---|---|---|
| Tier | Sports GPS | Smartwatch |
| Platform | iOS & Android | iOS & Android |
| Battery | 23 days | 14 days |
| Always-on display | ❌ | ✅ |
| GPS | ✅ | ✅ |
| Cellular | ❌ | ❌ |
| Health sensors | hr, spo2, hrv, stress, body battery, training readiness, running dynamics | ecg, spo2, hrv, hr, body comp, stress |
| Released | Mar 1, 2023 | Nov 1, 2023 |
| Cycle length | 1024 days | null days |
| Cycle advice | bad | neutral |
| Deals advice | good | neutral |
| Next model | — | — |
Turn-by-turn navigation on full TopoActive maps — the key differentiator from the FR265. Essential for trail running and mountain racing.
Cadence, stride length, vertical oscillation, ground contact time, and running power — the full biomechanics suite for optimising form and efficiency.
More than double the FR265 battery life. Enough for week-long trail ultras without a charge.
Rare combination: a bright always-on AMOLED display and 14 days of typical use without charging.
Medical-grade ECG and bioelectrical impedance body fat analysis — features usually found only on watches costing $100–$200 more.
Zepp Coach uses Amazfit's AI to build personalised workout plans, recovery recommendations, and stress management guidance.