Suunto recently unveiled their premium sports watch, the “Suunto Race,” sparking significant buzz in the fitness community with its cutting-edge features, most notably, the AMOLED screen – a currently trending component in sports watches.
Not to be outdone, earlier this year, Garmin introduced their latest editions to the Forerunner series: the 965 & 265, each packed with the latest technological advancements.
As enthusiasts and athletes alike are spoiled for choice, a dilemma brews regarding which watch truly stands out in the competitive market.
In this article, we’ll pit the Suunto Race against Garmin’s Forerunner 965 and 265, delving into the differences and similarities between them to aid you in making a well-informed decision.
Let the ultimate sports watch challenge begin!
Suunto Race vs Garmin Forerunner 965 vs Forerunner 265: Price & Availability
| Model | Release Date | Price (USD/GBP) |
|---|---|---|
| Suunto Race | October 17, 2023 | Stainless Steel: $449/£389 Titanium: $549/£479 |
| Garmin Forerunner 265/265S | March 2, 2023 | $449/£429 |
| Garmin Forerunner 965 | March 2023 | $599/£599 |
The Suunto Race offers two stylish options: the sleek Stainless Steel version at $449/£389 and the more premium Titanium variant priced at $549/£479. For those looking to add a personal touch, Suunto also presents a collection of unique straps available in four distinct colors, each retailing for £49.
Switching gears to Garmin, the brand unveiled both the Forerunner 265 and 965 on March 2, 2023. The Forerunner 265 comes in at $449/£429 and provides users with two display size choices: a standard 1.3-inch screen and its counterpart, the Forerunner 265S, with a compact 1.1-inch display.
The Forerunner 965, distinguished by its sharp grey titanium finish, is a tad more luxurious at $599/£599. Customers have the choice of a black or lively yellow strap, and there’s an alternative design featuring an elegant titanium bezel paired with a pristine white strap.
Suunto Race vs Forerunner 965 vs 265: Design, Build & Display
Diving into the world of sports watches, the design and feel matter just as much as the features. Each of these devices brings its own flair, catering to different tastes and preferences.
Starting with the Forerunner 965, it’s a chunky piece, boasting dimensions of 47.1 x 47.1 x 13.2 mm and housing five physical buttons. For those who like a robust feel on the wrist, this one’s a winner. The 1.4-inch AMOLED screen pops with a sharp 454 x 454 pixel resolution. Crafted from sturdy fiber-reinforced polymer and paired with a comfy silicone strap, it promises durability while being easy on the skin.
Its siblings, the Forerunner 265 and 265s, share design cues but come in a tad smaller. Users get to pick between cases of 46mm and 41mm, both made of fiber-reinforced material. Depending on whether you opt for the larger or the petite version, you’ll get a 1.3-inch or a 1.1-inch display, respectively.
Now, the Suunto Race brings a dash of class to the table. With choices of stainless steel or titanium bezels, it looks as good during a workout as it does on a lunch date. Sized at 49 x 49 x 13.3 mm, it houses an AMOLED screen, which in the 1.43-inch offers a crisp 466 x 466 pixel resolution.
But here’s where Suunto steals the show. While all Garmin devices here are 5 ATM water-resistant, the Suunto Race dives deeper with a water rating of 100m. This edge in water resistance places the Suunto Race a step ahead in the battle against Garmin.
| Specification | Sunnto Race | Garmin Forerunner 265/265S | Garmin Forerunner 965 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Lens Material | Gorilla Glass | Corning® Gorilla® Glass 3 | Corning® Gorilla® Glass 3 DX |
| Bezel Material | Stainless Steel/Titanium | Fiber-reinforced Polymer | Titanium |
| Case Material | Glass fibre reinforced polyamide | Fiber-reinforced Polymer | Fiber-reinforced Polymer |
| Band Type & Size | Quick Release | Quick Release (265: 22 mm, 265S: 18 mm) | QuickFit Compatible (22 mm) |
| Strap Material | Silicone | Silicone | Silicone |
| Physical Size (mm) | 49 x 49 x 13.3 mm | 265: 46.1 x 46.1 x 12.9, 265S: 41.7 x 41.7 x 12.9 | 47.2 x 47.2 x 13.2 |
| Weight (g) | 69 g | 265: 47, 265S: 39 g | 53 g |
| Water Rating | 100 m | 5 ATM | 5 ATM |
| Display Type | AMOLED | AMOLED Optional Always-On Mode | AMOLED Optional Always-On Mode |
| Display Size (inch) | 1.43″ | 265: 1.3″, 265S: 1.1″ | 1.4″ |
| Display Resolution (pixels) | 466 x 466 | 265: 416 x 416, 265S: 360 x 360 | 454 x 454 |
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Suunto Race vs Garmin Forerunner 965 vs Forerunner 265: Health, Fitness, Training & Activity Features
In the race for fitness supremacy, the Suunto Race, Forerunner 965, and Forerunner 265 come packed with cutting-edge sensors. From heart rate monitoring to the SpO2 sensor, barometric altimeter, compass, gyroscope, accelerometer, and thermometer, they’ve got the hardware to track your every move.
While these watches might give a nod to some smartwatch features, make no mistake, their main game is fitness. Forget comparing them to the likes of the Apple Watch; their domain is athletic performance. Whether it’s counting your steps or diving deep into advanced performance data, these devices are built for the sporty at heart.
The Forerunner series is like the Swiss army knife for athletes. It’s got a toolbox full of analytics, perfect for those who like to dive deep into their training metrics.
Meanwhile, the Suunto Race has its eyes on endurance athletes. It rolls out features like RaceTime, which keeps you clued in on your total run time, pace maintenance, and estimated finish time. And if you’re out on the long haul, it nudges you with nutritional reminders.
Mapping enthusiasts will get a kick out of the Suunto Race. Suunto has embedded detailed offline maps, complete with trails, waters, and other landmarks. And the best part? You can grab global maps for free, making route planning and navigation a breeze.
Training, planning, and post-workout analysis? All three are on top of their game, serving up a smorgasbord of metrics. Forerunner watches, however, take things up a notch with unique features like “Heat and Altitude Acclimation,” “VO2 Max for Trail Run,” and “Real-time Stamina,” which are a step ahead of what’s on offer with the Venu 3.
Runners, the Forerunner 965 and 265 have got your back. Their detailed metrics, including “Running Dynamics,” “Vertical Oscillation and Ratio,” and “Real-time Stride Length,” give runners a microscopic view into their form and efficiency. If you’re all about optimizing those sprints and jogs, the Forerunner series is your best bet.
Lastly, let’s not forget about satellite connectivity. All these models come with dual-band support, ensuring pinpoint accuracy even in challenging terrains where GPS might falter.
In a nutshell, for fitness aficionados, these watches don’t just tick the right boxes; they create new ones.
| Specification | Suunto Race | Forerunner 265/265S | Forerunner 965 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Sensors | Heart Rate, Barometric Altimeter, Compass, Gyroscope, Accelerometer, SpO2 | Heart Rate, Barometric Altimeter, Compass, Gyroscope, Accelerometer, Thermometer, SpO2 | Heart Rate, Barometric Altimeter, Compass, Gyroscope, Accelerometer, Thermometer, SpO2 |
| Connectivity | Bluetooth, ANT+, Wi-Fi | Bluetooth, ANT+, Wi-Fi | Bluetooth, ANT+, Wi-Fi |
| Satellite Connectivity | Yes (dual-band) | Multi-frequency positioning, GPS, GLONASS, GALILEO | Multi-frequency positioning, GPS, GLONASS, GALILEO |
| Internal Storage | No | 8GB | 32GB |
| Payments | No | Garmin Pay | Garmin Pay |
Suunto Race vs Garmin Forerunner 965 vs Forerunner 265: Other Features
When it comes to connectivity, the Suunto Race, Forerunner 965, and Forerunner 265 are all in sync, offering support for Bluetooth, ANT+, and Wi-Fi.
However, differences emerge when you peek into their memory storage. The Forerunner 265 series comes with a decent 8GB of internal storage – a feature that’s conspicuously absent in the Suunto Race. Meanwhile, the Forerunner 965 outshines them both, boasting a whopping 32GB, making it a music lover’s dream watch. This extra space allows users to store a much larger music collection directly on the watch.
Garmin flexes its muscles in the mobile payments arena. Thanks to the built-in NFC payment feature, “Garmin Pay,” a quick wrist flick can handle transactions. Sadly, the Suunto Race lags behind here, missing out on the mobile payment bandwagon.
Music aficionados, the Forerunner 965 & 265 are tuned to your beat. They not only store your favorite tracks but also integrate seamlessly with popular platforms like Spotify and Deezer. So, whether you’re sprinting or strolling, your tunes are always just a tap away.
All three models ensure you stay connected, relaying smartphone notifications directly to your wrist. However, if you’re hoping to answer calls or summon a voice assistant, you might be left wanting. None of these models support Bluetooth calling or voice assistant features.
Suunto Race vs Garmin Forerunner 965 vs Forerunner 265: Battery Life
When it comes to battery life, we all want a watch that can keep up with our busy schedules and demanding workouts. Here’s how these watches stack up:
Leading the way is the Forerunner 965. It offers a whopping 23 days of juice in regular smartwatch mode. If you’re hitting the trails and using only the GPS, it can last up to 31 hours. And for the music lovers? You’re in for a treat with up to 10.5 hours of playtime. This makes it a top pick for those who love long outdoor adventures.
Coming in next are the Forerunner 265 and 265S. They’re solid choices, giving you between 13 and 15 days in smartwatch mode. When using only the GPS, they’ll last between 20 and 24 hours. Not bad at all!
Now, the Suunto Race is no slouch either. With the GPS turned on, it runs for an impressive 40 hours. When you’re out on a lengthy expedition and switch it to ‘Tour’ mode, it can stretch up to 120 hours! If you’re just using it day-to-day, expect about 12 days in gesture display mode or 7 days if you like the screen always on.
In short, all three options provide sturdy battery performance, ensuring they won’t quit before you do.
| Battery Life Mode | Suunto Race | Garmin Forerunner 265/265S | Garmin Forerunner 965 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Smartwatch mode | 26 days | Up to 13 days / Up to 15 days (265S) | Up to 23 days |
| With 24/7 tracking and mobile notifications | 12 days | – | – |
| Training mode with GPS | 40h / 50h / 70h / 120h | – | – |
| GPS-Only GNSS mode | – | Up to 20 hours / Up to 24 hours (265S) | Up to 31 hours |
| All-Systems GNSS mode | – | Up to 15 hours / Up to 15 hours (265S) | Up to 19 hours |
| GPS-Only GNSS mode with music | – | Up to 7 hours / Up to 7.5 hours (265S) | Up to 10.5 hours |
Suunto Race vs Garmin Forerunner 965 vs Forerunner 265: Which Should You Buy?
Selecting the right sports watch can be challenging, especially when you’re faced with top contenders like the Suunto Race and Garmin’s Forerunner 965 & 265. Here’s a guide to help you decide:
- Looks and Style: If you want a stylish watch that’s also fit for workouts, pick the Suunto Race with its classy stainless steel or titanium bezels.
- High-Performance Training: For those wanting comprehensive training metrics and top-notch performance, the Forerunner 965 is your best bet.
- Endurance Activities: Suunto Race is designed for long-duration activities like ultramarathons and triathlons, especially with its 120 hours ‘Tour’ mode battery life.
- Everyday Use and Music: For a blend of daily features with fitness ones, and if you love having music on the go, choose the Forerunner 265 & 965. The added “Garmin Pay” is a bonus for daily transactions.
- Battery Life: If battery longevity is key, the Forerunner 965 leads with 23 days in standard mode. But for extended outdoor activities, Suunto Race’s 120-hour ‘Tour’ mode stands out.
- Price Point: For those on a budget, both the Suunto Race and Forerunner 265 are priced at $449. But if you’re looking for a premium touch, consider investing in the Forerunner 965.
Let’s make it simple:
The right watch depends on your individual needs and preferences.
- Forerunner 965 is for serious athletes who want detailed metrics.
- Suunto Race is ideal for endurance sports and off-path adventures.
- Forerunner 265 strikes a balance for daily users who also enjoy fitness activities.
Consider your priorities, and let that guide your purchase. Whichever you choose, you’re investing in a quality sports watch.
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