It can be difficult to choose a fitness watch, especially because there are so many models and customization options. You may be considering whether to get the Garmin Forerunner 965 right away or wait until after you hear about the upcoming Garmin Forerunner 975. The Forerunner 965 is currently on the market and offers a variety of features for outdoor activities such as long hikes, open-water swimming, and skiing.
It might be worth weighing up the pros and cons of waiting by comparing the Forerunner 965 with other models, such as the Samsung Galaxy Watch 6, Fitbit Charge 6, or Garmin Fenix 7. Each of these models has its strengths, from the rugged design of the Fenix 7 to the sleek interface of the Galaxy Watch 6 and the health-tracking capabilities of the Fitbit Charge 6.
So, should you grab the 965 while it’s available or wait for the 975’s potential upgrades? Let’s explore the Garmin Forerunner 975 vs. 965 and see what might be best for you.
Overview of the Garmin Forerunner 965
The Garmin Forerunner 965, launched in March 2023, is a top-tier running watch designed for serious athletes and fitness enthusiasts.
It features a high-resolution AMOLED display, which stands out with its vibrant colors and sharp clarity, ensuring that your data is easy to read in various lighting conditions. This makes it particularly useful for both indoor and outdoor workouts.
In terms of performance, the Forerunner 965 offers a comprehensive suite of metrics. It includes advanced heart rate monitoring, precise GPS tracking, and a range of performance insights to help you fine-tune your training regimen.
The watch is also built with durability in mind, boasting water resistance and a robust design that can handle intense outdoor activities.
Garmin Forerunner 965 Features
- Display: 1.4″ AMOLED touchscreen
- Battery Life: Up to 23 days (smartwatch mode), 31 hours (GPS mode)
- GPS: Multi-band with full-color maps
- Training Tools: Training Readiness Score, Race Plans, VO2 Max, and more
- Connectivity: Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, USB
Pros and Cons
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| ✅ High-resolution AMOLED display | ❌ Only available in a 47mm case size |
| ✅ Comprehensive tracking features | ❌ Some software bugs |
| ✅ Good GPS accuracy | ❌ No AFib detection yet |
| ✅ Reliably long-lasting battery | |
| ✅ Stunning AMOLED display |
Garmin Forerunner 975: What to Expect
The Forerunner 975 is set to be the next significant upgrade in Garmin’s lineup, with a projected release date between March and June 2025.
While specific details are still emerging, there are several anticipated improvements that could make the Forerunner 975 a compelling choice.
Expected Features
Improved Sensors: The Forerunner 975 is expected to feature advanced sensors that offer enhanced accuracy in health and performance monitoring.
Enhanced Software: We anticipate that the 975 will come with more stable software and fewer bugs, addressing some of the issues seen in previous models.
New Functionalities: Potential new features could include built-in ECG and other advanced health monitoring capabilities, offering even more insights into your fitness and health.
Pros and Cons
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| ✅ Potentially new features and improvements | ❌ Likely to be more expensive initially |
| ✅ Enhanced software stability | ❌ Not available until mid-2025 |
Should You Wait for the Garmin Forerunner 975 or Buy Forerunner 965
Imagine you’re standing at a crossroads. On one path lies the trusted, well-traveled Garmin Forerunner 965, a watch that has been a loyal companion for many runners since its release in March 2023.
On the other path, a tantalizing mystery awaits the Forerunner 975, rumored to debut between March and June 2025. Which way should you turn?
The Journey with the Garmin Forerunner 965
Let’s start our journey with the Garmin Forerunner 965. Picture this: it’s a crisp morning, the sun just peeking over the horizon. You strap on your Forerunner 965, ready for another day of training.
The moment you glance at its AMOLED display, you’re greeted with vivid colors and crystal-clear clarity, a perfect companion to your morning run. This screen is not just about aesthetics; it ensures that your stats are always easy to read, even under the bright sun.
As you run, the 965 becomes more than just a watch. It’s your coach, your motivator. PacePro guides you through your race strategy, adjusting for every hill and valley.
VO2 Max offers insights into your cardiovascular fitness, letting you see how your hard work translates into tangible improvements. Performance Condition gives real-time feedback on how your body is responding today compared to your average fitness.
Think about the battery life: you’ve been training for a marathon, and you don’t want your watch to give up before you do. In Smartwatch Mode, the Forerunner 965 lasts up to 15 days.
When you’re deep into a 42-hour ultra-trail, the GPS Mode has your back. And for those ultra-endurance adventures, UltraTrac Mode extends the battery to a staggering 80 hours.
The versatility of the Forerunner 965 is like having an entire coaching staff on your wrist. It supports a variety of sports – from running to cycling to swimming.
With Triathlon Mode, you can switch between sports seamlessly. Its built-in sports apps cover everything from hiking to yoga, making it a versatile companion for any athlete.
But it’s not just about numbers and stats. Imagine exploring new trails with Full-Color Mapping. You’re navigating a dense forest, yet the detailed maps and Global Navigation Satellite System (GNSS) keep you on track, ensuring you don’t get lost in unfamiliar terrain.
The Anticipation of the Garmin Forerunner 975
Now, let’s gaze down the other path, towards the new Forerunner 975. This watch is still shrouded in mystery, much like a treasure hidden in an ancient map, but the rumors and expectations are thrilling.
You can imagine it: another bright and clear AMOLED display gracing your wrist, similar to the 965 but possibly even more refined.
The talk of an ECG (electrocardiogram) feature sends a ripple of excitement through the running community. The ability to monitor your heart’s electrical activity with such precision could be a game-changer.
Envision the 975 with refined software. Every software update and enhancement from the 965 has been considered and improved upon. The new watch might come with enhanced stability, fewer bugs, and perhaps new features that we can only dream of now.
Design-wise, the Forerunner 975 is likely to continue Garmin’s tradition of sleek and modern aesthetics. Picture a watch that not only performs exceptionally well but also looks stunning on your wrist. Durable and robust, it’s designed to withstand the rigors of intense training and extreme conditions.
Battery life could see improvements too. Imagine heading out for a week-long adventure, confident that your watch will last the entire journey. With advancements in battery technology, the 975 might just offer that edge over the 965.
Final Thoughts – Garmin Forerunner 975 vs. 965
So, here you stand at the crossroads. Should you continue down the familiar path with the Forerunner 965, or should you wait for the new horizons promised by the Forerunner 975?
If you need a reliable, feature-rich companion today, the Forerunner 965 is your steadfast friend. It has everything you need to train smarter, navigate confidently, and monitor your progress with precision. The bugs are mostly minor and being actively worked on, making it a strong contender for your next purchase.
But if you’re intrigued by the potential of new features and can wait a few months, the Forerunner 975 might be worth the anticipation.
The promise of new technology and refinements could make it a more polished product with a longer lifespan. Plus, the release of the 975 might just bring a price drop for the 965, offering you the best of both worlds.
In the end, the choice is yours. Whether you pick the proven performance of the Forerunner 965 or decide to wait for the cutting-edge advancements of the Forerunner 975, you’re investing in a journey toward better health and peak performance. Happy running!
