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Garmin AMOLED fitness watches: While none of us here at KN are about to be running a marathon anytime soon, we like to have a trusted watch that can help us keep track of just what it is we’re doing out on our jogs and hikes. One of the biggest names out there, of course, is Garmin, and they just introduced two models that now have AMOLED screens on them.
Garmin AMOLED fitness watches: Why this is great
While we could get into the details of what makes an AMOLED screen an AMOLED (we’ll refer you to this article), that can get pretty into the weeds. Think about it this way – any smartwatch you’ve had, how has the screen been when you’re out in the bright sunlight? Tends to get washed out and hard to read, right? Almost makes you long for the good old LCD display, right? Well, AMOLED wants to give you the best of both worlds – full-color displays that are viewable in any lighting condition.
Garmin AMOLED fitness watches: What’s on offer
Garmin has decided to house this new screen in two different models – the $450 Garmin Forerunner 265 (or 265S) and the $600 Garmin Forerunner 965. While the 965 is definitely aimed at people who are training for very specific things (say, that aforementioned marathon), the 265 feels more like it’s aimed at us average folks who are just trying to stay active and healthy. Regardless of the model, this is what the watches will bring to the table:
- Start the day off right with a morning report that provides an overview of last night’s sleep and the day’s training outlook, alongside HRV (heart rate variability) status and weather (when paired with a smartphone)1.
- Use the race widget to get training tips, personalized daily suggested workouts and completion time predictions for an upcoming race based on course details, weather and performance.
- View personalized daily suggested workouts that adapt after every run to match performance and recovery while also accounting for upcoming races that are added to the Garmin Connect™ calendar.
- Determine whether it’s a good day to go hard or take it easy with a training readiness score based on sleep quality, recovery, training load and more.
- Track heart rate variability while sleeping to get a better handle on recovery and an overall wellness picture.
- Measure running power and running dynamics such as cadence, stride length, ground contact time and more right from the wrist – no app or accessory required.
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How’s the battery life?
That’s the big question for any smart watch, especially when a brand is getting into a new (for them) screen technology. The Garmin Forerunner 265 can run for up to 24 hours in GPS mode, or a very respectable 15 days in smartwatch mode. So, with the 3-5 days of training in the mix, you’re probably look at at least a week between charges, which is quite nice. The Garmin Forerunner 965 has a larger case, which presumably means a larger battery. That’s why the specs list out 31 hours in GPS mode or up to 23 days in smartwatch mode.
Are these worth it?
Garmin has been at the top for a reason. Yes, their stuff is pricier than the no-name fitness watches you’ll find out there, but they’re going to be well designed, go the distance, and do everything you want them to. These specific models, the Garmin AMOLED fitness watches, we’ve not seen in person, but John and I have both used Garmin fitness watches in the past, and they’re definitely top notch. We’re working on getting a review unit in, so keep an eye out for that. With these new screens, they’re definitely looking to put themselves at the front of the pack. garmin.com
