This model is no longer sold new. It has been replaced by the Garmin Forerunner 970.
Best for: Competitive runners, triathletes, and ultramarathon runners who want full maps, running dynamics, and premium build.
Full details →Reaching maturity, next model expected soon
Best for: iPhone users who want the most capable smartwatch health experience available. Ideal for anyone who values medical-grade monitoring (ECG, blood pressure, SpO2), a premium always-on display, and the best Apple Watch workout tracking. If health is your priority, this is the one to get.
Full details →| Garmin Forerunner 965 | Apple Watch | |
|---|---|---|
| Tier | Sports GPS | Smartwatch |
| Platform | iOS & Android | iOS only |
| Battery | 23 days | 1 days |
| Always-on display | ❌ | ✅ |
| GPS | ✅ | ✅ |
| Cellular | ❌ | ✅ |
| Health sensors | hr, spo2, hrv, stress, body battery, training readiness, running dynamics | ecg, spo2, skin temp, hrv, blood pressure |
| Released | Mar 1, 2023 | Sep 19, 2025 |
| Cycle length | 806 days | 364 days |
| Cycle advice | superseded | neutral |
| Deals advice | clearance | neutral |
| Next model | — | Apple Watch Series 12 (Expected fall 2026) |
Turn-by-turn navigation on full TopoActive maps — essential for trail running and mountain racing.
Cadence, stride length, vertical oscillation, ground contact time, and running power.
Enough for week-long trail ultras without a charge.
The Series 11 is the first mainstream smartwatch to offer FDA-cleared hypertension (high blood pressure) detection — a feature that could flag silent health risks.
At 9.7mm, the Series 11 is significantly slimmer than previous models — noticeably lighter on the wrist for all-day and sleep tracking.
On-demand ECG, continuous blood oxygen monitoring, and sleep apnea detection (FDA-cleared) make this one of the most medically relevant consumer wearables available.