Side-by-side comparison based on expert reviews and community consensus.
Garmin Forerunner 165
Best BudgetGarmin Venu 3
Best Lifestyle WatchPrice
$199-$249
$349-$449
Summary
The Forerunner 165 is the most affordable way into Garmin's AMOLED ecosystem, offering solid GPS, in-depth training metrics, and a sleek design at a beginner-friendly price. Wirecutter and Tom's Guide both highlight it as a capable entry point.
The Venu 3 is Garmin's best-looking watch — a vibrant AMOLED display, strong fitness tracking, and a design that doesn't scream "sports watch." WIRED and Reddit both praise it as the ideal pick for users who want health tracking without the tactical aesthetic.
Pros
- AMOLED display at the most affordable price in Garmin's lineup
- Solid GPS accuracy for everyday running and training
- In-depth training metrics including VO2 max and training load
- Lightweight and comfortable for all-day wear
- Stunning AMOLED display with a lifestyle-friendly design
- Excellent sleep tracking and nap detection
- Strong health monitoring including SpO2, stress, and HRV
- Better smartwatch features than most Garmin sport watches
Cons
- GPS signal acquisition slightly slower than competitors like Coros Pace 4 per Wirecutter testing
- Missing advanced features like topographical maps and multi-band GPS
- No music storage on base model (Music variant costs more)
- Lacks advanced running metrics like topographical maps and full training load analysis
- Not ideal for serious athletes who need deep performance data
- Shorter battery life than Fenix or Forerunner 955/965
Our take
For new runners or anyone not ready to spend $350+, the Forerunner 165 gives you a real Garmin experience — AMOLED screen, training metrics, and reliable GPS — without the premium price tag.
If you want a Garmin that you'd actually wear to dinner, the Venu 3 is your answer. It trades some advanced running metrics for a genuinely attractive design and excellent sleep tracking.
Buy
