Garmin
Garmin Forerunner 265
2023 · Fitness + health
86
/ 100
From $449
VS
Apple
Apple Watch Series 8
2022 · Fitness + health
86
/ 100
From $399
Specdex verdict
Dead heat — it comes down to priorities.
In our weighted Specdex score, Garmin Forerunner 265 lands at 86 and Apple Watch Series 8 at 86. With scores tied, the decision hinges on which sub-scores matter most to you.
Pick Garmin Forerunner 265 if…
- ✓Multi-day fitness tracking
- ✓GPS + heart rate
- ✓Notification mirroring
Pick Apple Watch Series 8 if…
- ✓Multi-day fitness tracking
- ✓GPS + heart rate
- ✓Notification mirroring
Garmin Forerunner 265 86
vs 86 Apple Watch Series 8
Score breakdown
Garmin Forerunner 265
86 battery 94
display 88
fitness 86
health 84
durability 86
Apple Watch Series 8
86 battery 72
display 88
fitness 86
health 84
durability 86
Specs side-by-side
| Spec | Garmin Forerunner 265 | Apple Watch Series 8 |
|---|---|---|
| Release year | 2023 | 2022 |
Garmin Forerunner 265
Pros
- +Multi-day fitness tracking
- +GPS + heart rate
- +Notification mirroring
Cons
- −Battery life varies dramatically
- −Companion phone required
- −Screen-on drains battery
Apple Watch Series 8
Pros
- +Multi-day fitness tracking
- +GPS + heart rate
- +Notification mirroring
Cons
- −Battery life varies dramatically
- −Companion phone required
- −Screen-on drains battery
FAQ: Garmin Forerunner 265 vs Apple Watch Series 8
Which is better, Garmin Forerunner 265 or Apple Watch Series 8? +
Both score 86 on our weighted rubric — tied. Your best pick depends on the sub-scores above.
Is Garmin Forerunner 265 worth the price? +
At $449, Garmin Forerunner 265 delivers a Specdex score of 86 — strongest in battery.
Is Apple Watch Series 8 worth the price? +
At $399, Apple Watch Series 8 delivers a Specdex score of 86 — strongest in display.
Does Garmin Forerunner 265 or Apple Watch Series 8 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.