Garmin
Garmin Forerunner 965
2023 · Fitness + health
88
/ 100
From $599
VS
Apple
Apple Watch Series 9
2023 · Fitness + health
88
/ 100
From $399
Specdex verdict
Dead heat — it comes down to priorities.
In our weighted Specdex score, Garmin Forerunner 965 lands at 88 and Apple Watch Series 9 at 88. With scores tied, the decision hinges on which sub-scores matter most to you.
Pick Garmin Forerunner 965 if…
- ✓Multi-day fitness tracking
- ✓GPS + heart rate
- ✓Notification mirroring
Pick Apple Watch Series 9 if…
- ✓Multi-day fitness tracking
- ✓GPS + heart rate
- ✓Notification mirroring
Garmin Forerunner 965 88
vs 88 Apple Watch Series 9
Score breakdown
Garmin Forerunner 965
88 battery 94
display 88
fitness 88
health 86
durability 86
Apple Watch Series 9
88 battery 72
display 88
fitness 88
health 86
durability 86
Specs side-by-side
| Spec | Garmin Forerunner 965 | Apple Watch Series 9 |
|---|---|---|
| Release year | 2023 | 2023 |
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
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
FAQ: Garmin Forerunner 965 vs Apple Watch Series 9
Which is better, Garmin Forerunner 965 or Apple Watch Series 9? +
Both score 88 on our weighted rubric — tied. Your best pick depends on the sub-scores above.
Is Garmin Forerunner 965 worth the price? +
At $599, Garmin Forerunner 965 delivers a Specdex score of 88 — strongest in battery.
Is Apple Watch Series 9 worth the price? +
At $399, Apple Watch Series 9 delivers a Specdex score of 88 — strongest in display.
Does Garmin Forerunner 965 or Apple Watch Series 9 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.