Apple
Apple Watch Series 9
2023 · Fitness + health
88
/ 100
From $399
VS
Garmin
Garmin Forerunner 965
2023 · Fitness + health
88
/ 100
From $599
Specdex verdict
Dead heat — it comes down to priorities.
In our weighted Specdex score, Apple Watch Series 9 lands at 88 and Garmin Forerunner 965 at 88. With scores tied, the decision hinges on which sub-scores matter most to you.
Pick Apple Watch Series 9 if…
- ✓Multi-day fitness tracking
- ✓GPS + heart rate
- ✓Notification mirroring
Pick Garmin Forerunner 965 if…
- ✓Multi-day fitness tracking
- ✓GPS + heart rate
- ✓Notification mirroring
Apple Watch Series 9 88
vs 88 Garmin Forerunner 965
Score breakdown
Apple Watch Series 9
88 battery 72
display 88
fitness 88
health 86
durability 86
Garmin Forerunner 965
88 battery 94
display 88
fitness 88
health 86
durability 86
Specs side-by-side
| Spec | Apple Watch Series 9 | Garmin Forerunner 965 |
|---|---|---|
| Release year | 2023 | 2023 |
Apple Watch Series 9
Pros
- +Multi-day fitness tracking
- +GPS + heart rate
- +Notification mirroring
Cons
- −Battery life varies dramatically
- −Companion phone required
- −Screen-on drains battery
Garmin Forerunner 965
Pros
- +Multi-day fitness tracking
- +GPS + heart rate
- +Notification mirroring
Cons
- −Battery life varies dramatically
- −Companion phone required
- −Screen-on drains battery
FAQ: Apple Watch Series 9 vs Garmin Forerunner 965
Which is better, Apple Watch Series 9 or Garmin Forerunner 965? +
Both score 88 on our weighted rubric — tied. Your best pick depends on the sub-scores above.
Is Apple Watch Series 9 worth the price? +
At $399, Apple Watch Series 9 delivers a Specdex score of 88 — strongest in display.
Is Garmin Forerunner 965 worth the price? +
At $599, Garmin Forerunner 965 delivers a Specdex score of 88 — strongest in battery.
Does Apple Watch Series 9 or Garmin Forerunner 965 last longer? +
Based on our long-term update and support ratings, both ship with multi-year support. Battery and reliability scores are visible in the breakdown above.