Get the App
Better experience on mobile
Explore top fitness watches offering better value and features compared to the Garmin Forerunner 965.
Many users seek alternatives to the Garmin Forerunner 965 due to its high price, specific feature sets, or to explore different ecosystems like Apple or Google. When choosing an alternative, it's important to consider factors such as battery life, sports tracking capabilities, integration with other devices, and overall value for money. This guide highlights some of the best alternatives available in 2025, each offering unique advantages that might better suit different users' needs and budgets.
From budget-friendly options to premium watches with advanced features, the alternatives listed below have been selected based on expert reviews and real-world performance data. Whether you're looking for better integration with your smartphone, more accurate tracking for specific sports, or simply a more affordable option, there's likely an alternative here that will meet your requirements.
![Apple Watch Ultra 2 [GPS + Cellular, 49mm] - Titanium Case with Blue Ocean Band, One Size (Renewed) Modern One size - fits 130-200mm wrists Titanium Case with Blue Ocean Band Without AppleCare+ - Image 1 of 8](https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/6165pya85SL._AC_SL1500_.jpg)
The Apple Watch Ultra 2 is a top contender with its robust feature set and seamless integration with the Apple ecosystem. It offers advanced health monitoring, including blood oxygen and ECG readings, and a dual-frequency GPS for precise tracking. The watch's titanium case is durable and suitable for extreme conditions, making it ideal for adventurous users. The Ultra 2's battery life extends up to 36 hours with normal use, and it supports fast charging. This watch is best for Apple users who want a high-end fitness tracker with comprehensive health insights. Price range: $799 - $899.
Key Difference: Offers superior integration with the Apple ecosystem and more advanced health monitoring features.
Price: Slightly more expensive than the Garmin Forerunner 965, which typically retails for $699.
The Coros Apex 2 Pro stands out with its exceptional battery life, lasting up to 75 hours in GPS mode and 30 days in daily use. It features multi-band GPS for accurate tracking and offers comprehensive sports modes, including triathlon-specific functions. The watch is lightweight and has a clear, easy-to-read display. It's perfect for endurance athletes who need reliable tracking without frequent charging. Price range: $499 - $599.
Key Difference: Significantly longer battery life, ideal for long-distance events.
Price: Cheaper than the Garmin Forerunner 965, offering better value for those prioritizing battery life.
The Polar Vantage V3 is tailored for multisport athletes, offering detailed performance analytics and recovery guidance. It includes advanced running power metrics and a unique Training Load Pro feature that helps optimize training. The watch also features a long battery life of up to 43 hours in GPS mode and integrates seamlessly with Polar's ecosystem. It's the best choice for athletes who need in-depth analysis of their training and recovery. Price range: $549 - $649.
Key Difference: Provides more detailed multisport analytics and recovery guidance.
Price: Competitive pricing, slightly cheaper than the Garmin Forerunner 965.
The Suunto 9 Peak Pro is designed for outdoor enthusiasts, offering robust build quality and comprehensive navigation features. It has a battery life of up to 210 hours in Tour mode and supports solar charging for extended use. The watch includes detailed maps and route planning tools, making it ideal for hiking, trekking, and other outdoor activities. Price range: $599 - $699.
Key Difference: Specializes in outdoor navigation and has solar charging capabilities.
Price: Similar in price to the Garmin Forerunner 965, but with enhanced outdoor features.
The Fitbit Sense 2 is an excellent budget-friendly option that still offers robust health and fitness tracking. It includes an ECG app, stress management tools, and a long-lasting battery life of up to 6 days. The watch integrates well with the Fitbit app, providing comprehensive insights into sleep and fitness. It's perfect for casual fitness enthusiasts who want a reliable and affordable fitness tracker. Price range: $249 - $299.
Key Difference: Offers a more affordable price point with solid fitness tracking capabilities.
Price: Significantly cheaper than the Garmin Forerunner 965, providing a budget-friendly alternative.
The Samsung Galaxy Watch 6 Pro is a premium choice for Android users, offering deep integration with Samsung devices and robust health tracking features. It includes advanced sleep coaching, body composition analysis, and up to 80 hours of battery life in normal use. The watch's titanium case and sapphire crystal glass make it durable and suitable for active lifestyles. It's best for Android users looking for a high-end fitness watch. Price range: $449 - $549.
Key Difference: Provides superior integration with Samsung devices and Android ecosystem.
Price: Cheaper than the Garmin Forerunner 965, offering better value for Android users.
Compare key specs and features of all our recommendations side-by-side
| Product | Recommendation | Rating | Price |
|---|---|---|---|
Apple Watch Ultra 2 [GPS + Cellular, 49mm] - Titanium Case with Blue Ocean Band, One Size (Renewed) Modern One size - fits 130-200mm wrists Titanium Case with Blue Ocean Band Without AppleCare+ Rank #1 | 4.5 4.5 | ||
COROS APEX 2 Series Outdoor GPS Watch, 1.2" Sapphire Titanium, On-Wrist Navigation, Offline Maps, Heart Rate Monitor, Track Sleep, Running, Biking, Skiing, Climbing (APEX 2 Pro, Black) Black APEX 2 Pro Rank #2 | 4.5 4.5 | ||
Polar H10 Heart Rate Monitor Chest Strap - ANT + Bluetooth, Waterproof HR Sensor for Men and Women Red M-XXL Rank #3 | 4.0 4.0 | ||
SUUNTO 9 Peak Pro GPS Sports Watch, Up to 30 Days Long Battery Life, 95+ Multisport Watch w/Training Workout Analysis,Advanced Health & Recovery Support, Wrist Heart-Rate Measurement, Black Peak Pro All Black Rank #4 | 4.0 4.0 | ||
 Fitbit Sense 3 Rank #5 | 4.2 4.2 | Check price | |
SAMSUNG Galaxy Watch 5 Pro (45mm,WIFI + 4G LTE) 1.4'' Super AMOLED Smartwatch GPS Bluetooth with Sleep Coaching,Bioactive Sensor,Water Resistant R925U (Fast Charger Bundle,Black Titanium) (Renewed) Rank #6 | 4.3 4.3 |
