Garmin Venu 3 Wins
Winner
VS
Garmin Forerunner 165
8.5
Runners and cyclists wanting accurate GPS and training metrics without premium prices
Score Comparison
Criteria
Garmin Venu 3
Garmin Forerunner 165
Overall Score
9.0
8.5
Health Insights & AI
9.2
8.5
Sleep Tracking
9.0
8.0
Battery Life
8.5
8.8
Value for Money
7.8
8.5
Design & Comfort
9.2
8.2
Activity Tracking
9.2
9.0
App & Ecosystem
8.8
8.0
Pricing & Features
Specification
Garmin Venu 3
Garmin Forerunner 165
Price
$450
$250
Released
31-Aug-23
20-Feb-24
Making Your Decision
When to Choose Garmin Venu 3
Health enthusiasts wanting the most complete subscription-free fitness smartwatch
Garmin Venu 3 offers the deepest health insights of any fitness watch without mandatory subscriptions, justifying its premium positioning.
Strengths
- Comprehensive health dashboard
- Elevate V5 heart rate sensor (most accurate)
- Voice calls via Bluetooth
- Wheelchair mode and nap detection
Limitations
- Premium $450 price tag
- Heavier than fitness bands
- Some metrics need chest strap for best accuracy
When to Choose Garmin Forerunner 165
Runners and cyclists wanting accurate GPS and training metrics without premium prices
The Forerunner 165 brings Garmin's renowned GPS accuracy and training features to a more accessible price point with a stunning AMOLED screen.
Strengths
- Excellent GPS accuracy
- Beautiful AMOLED display
- Body Battery and Training Readiness
- Garmin Coach adaptive plans
Limitations
- Limited advanced analytics vs higher models
- No music storage
- Plastic case feels less premium
