// WEARABLES
Polar Vantage V3 vs Garmin Forerunner 265: Ultimate Running Watch Comparison
The Polar Vantage V3 and Garmin Forerunner 265 represent two premium approaches to multisport GPS watches, both featuring vibrant AMOLED displays and advanced training metrics. The Vantage V3 positions itself as Polar's flagship offering with offline maps, biosensing technology, and a focus on serious athletic performance, while the Forerunner 265 provides Garmin's renowned ecosystem of features at a more accessible price point. Both watches target dedicated runners, triathletes, and multisport athletes who demand accurate tracking, comprehensive training analysis, and reliable daily wear capabilities. The choice between these two often comes down to ecosystem preference, specific feature priorities, and budget considerations, as they occupy similar positions in their respective lineups but take different approaches to core functionality.
Garmin Forerunner 265
by Garmin
$449
[FEATURE COMPARISON]
| Feature | Polar Vantage V3 | Garmin Forerunner 265 |
|---|---|---|
|
Display Technology Screen quality, size, and visibility for outdoor activities |
1.39" AMOLED, 454x454px, Gorilla Glass 3 | 1.3" AMOLED, 416x416px, Gorilla Glass |
|
Battery Life Usage time in smartwatch mode and GPS tracking |
Up to 12 days smartwatch, 43 hours GPS | Up to 13 days smartwatch, 20 hours GPS |
|
GPS Accuracy Positioning technology and tracking precision |
Multi-band GPS with A-GPS, GLONASS, Galileo, Beidou | Dual-band GPS with excellent accuracy |
|
Navigation & Maps Mapping capabilities and route guidance features |
Offline color maps, 32GB storage, route following | Breadcrumb navigation, back-to-start feature |
|
Smart Features Connectivity, payments, and smartphone integration |
Basic notifications, music controls, Bluetooth only | Rich notifications, music storage, NFC payments, ANT+ |
|
Health Sensors Biometric monitoring and health tracking capabilities |
HR, SpO2, ECG, skin temperature, barometer | HR, SpO2, temperature sensor, barometer |
|
Weight & Design Physical dimensions and wearing comfort |
57g, aluminum case, 47.3mm diameter | 47g, polymer case, 46.1mm diameter |
|
Training Analysis Workout insights and performance metrics |
Training Load Pro, Recovery Pro, FuelWise | Training Readiness, Daily Workout Suggestions, Recovery Advisor |
[PROS & CONS]
Polar Vantage V3
Pros
- Exceptional 43-hour GPS battery life
- Comprehensive offline color maps with 32GB storage
- Advanced biosensors including ECG and skin temperature
- Larger 1.39" AMOLED display
- Accurate multi-band GPS tracking
Cons
- Limited smart features compared to competitors
- Inconsistent heart rate accuracy
- Higher price at $599
- Bluetooth-only connectivity (no ANT+)
Garmin Forerunner 265
Pros
- Superior smart features including NFC payments
- Excellent training analysis and ecosystem integration
- Better value at $449 price point
- Dual connectivity (Bluetooth and ANT+)
- Lighter weight at 47g
Cons
- Shorter GPS battery life at 20 hours
- No offline mapping capabilities
- Smaller 1.3" display
- Limited to breadcrumb navigation only
[OUR VERDICT]
The Garmin Forerunner 265 wins overall due to superior smart features, better ecosystem integration, and stronger value at $150 less than the Polar Vantage V3.
The Polar Vantage V3 represents a significant leap forward for the Finnish brand, finally delivering an AMOLED sports watch that can compete with Garmin's offerings. Its standout features include impressive 43-hour GPS battery life, comprehensive offline mapping capabilities, and advanced biosensing with ECG and skin temperature monitoring. The multi-band GPS tracking proved accurate in testing, marking a substantial improvement over previous Polar devices. However, the heart rate sensor accuracy remains inconsistent, and the limited smart features feel dated compared to modern competitors.
The Garmin Forerunner 265, while lacking some of the Vantage V3's premium features like offline maps, excels in areas that matter most to everyday users. Its ecosystem integration is superior, offering seamless connectivity with external sensors via both Bluetooth and ANT+, comprehensive smart features including NFC payments and music storage, and Garmin's industry-leading training analysis tools like Training Readiness. The user interface feels more polished, and the overall software experience is more intuitive and feature-rich.
From a value perspective, the $150 price difference is significant. The Forerunner 265's lower price point makes it more accessible while still delivering professional-grade training features. The Vantage V3's premium positioning is justified by its superior battery life and mapping capabilities, but these advantages primarily benefit ultra-endurance athletes and outdoor adventurers who regularly venture into unmapped terrain.
Ultimately, the choice depends on specific use cases and ecosystem preferences. The Vantage V3 suits athletes who prioritize battery life, offline navigation, and advanced biometrics, while the Forerunner 265 better serves those wanting comprehensive smart features, superior software polish, and better value for money.
Our pick:
Garmin Forerunner 265
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