Our Take
The Garmin Forerunner 265S is the smaller-dialled version of the 265, designed for runners with narrower wrists who want serious training data without the bulk of higher-end multisport watches. Sitting in the upper-mid tier of Garmin's running lineup, it bridges the gap between entry-level trackers and the premium Forerunner 965, with an AMOLED display as its headline upgrade over predecessors.
Key Features
1.1-inch AMOLED always-on colour touchscreen, significantly sharper than the MIP displays on older Forerunner models
Built-in GPS with multi-band support for improved positional accuracy in urban canyons and tree cover
Wrist-based heart rate plus pulse oximetry for blood oxygen tracking at altitude or during sleep
Training Readiness and HRV Status scores, drawing on sleep, recovery, and stress data to guide daily load
Garmin Coach and structured workout support, with on-device guidance through interval sessions
Up to approximately 15 hours GPS battery life in standard mode; significantly reduced with always-on display active
Our Verdict
A strong choice for dedicated runners who want thorough training analytics, a premium display, and a watch that sits comfortably on a smaller wrist. Those prioritising long battery life, offline music, or full mapping should either reconsider their priorities or stretch to the Forerunner 965.