Our Take
The Garmin Forerunner 165 Music is a mid-range GPS running watch aimed at recreational runners who want reliable training metrics without stepping up to a premium price point. It sits comfortably between Garmin's entry-level and serious performance tiers, adding onboard music storage to sweeten the deal for those who prefer running without a phone.
Key Features
AMOLED touchscreen display with always-on mode option
Onboard storage for up to 500 songs, with Spotify, Deezer and Amazon Music support
GPS with multi-band support on the standard model for improved positioning accuracy
Garmin Coach adaptive training plans built directly into the watch
Up to 11 days battery life in smartwatch mode, dropping to around 8 hours in GPS-with-music mode
Running Dynamics metrics including cadence, pace and heart rate via wrist-based sensor
Our Verdict
The Forerunner 165 Music is a strong choice for committed recreational runners who want a polished training tool with the convenience of phone-free music. Those needing longer battery life or advanced race metrics should consider stepping up to the Forerunner 265. Budget-conscious beginners may find the standard 165 or older models better value.