Amazfit Balance vs Garmin Forerunner 265
The Verdict
Amazfit Balance delivers exceptional value at $199, offering a larger 1.5-inch AMOLED display with 480x480 resolution compared to Garmin's smaller 1.3-inch 416x416 screen. Battery life is comparable, with Amazfit claiming 14 days versus Garmin's 13 days in smartwatch mode. Garmin Forerunner 265 justifies its $449 price through superior sports-focused features: NFC for contactless payments, proven Garmin sports algorithms optimized for runners, and more reliable GPS tracking across diverse environments. Amazfit includes skin temperature monitoring that Garmin lacks, and its lighter 35g weight feels better during workouts. However, Garmin's custom processor and Connect IQ ecosystem provide deeper customization and third-party app support that serious athletes appreciate. Both feature SpO2 monitoring, heart rate tracking, and sleep analysis. If you prioritize everyday smartwatch performance and value, Amazfit Balance is outstanding for the price. Choose Garmin Forerunner 265 if you're a dedicated runner or triathlete who benefits from Garmin's specialized coaching features and established training community, accepting the steeper investment.
Who Should Buy
Buy the Amazfit Balance if…
- →14-day battery life is excellent for a full-featured smartwatch
- →AI-powered Readiness Score helps optimize training and recovery
- →Lightweight at 35 g — barely noticeable on the wrist
Buy the Garmin Forerunner 265 if…
- →Vibrant AMOLED display is a massive upgrade over the 255's MIP screen
- →Training Readiness and Morning Report provide actionable fitness insights
- →Multi-band GPS delivers extremely accurate pace and distance tracking
Category Scores
Pros & Cons
Amazfit Balance
Pros
- 14-day battery life is excellent for a full-featured smartwatch
- AI-powered Readiness Score helps optimize training and recovery
- Lightweight at 35 g — barely noticeable on the wrist
- Skin temperature and SpO2 monitoring at $199
- 150+ sport modes with GPS tracking
Cons
- No ECG monitoring
- Zepp OS has limited third-party app ecosystem
- No NFC for contactless payments
- No cellular connectivity — phone required for notifications
Garmin Forerunner 265
Pros
- Vibrant AMOLED display is a massive upgrade over the 255's MIP screen
- Training Readiness and Morning Report provide actionable fitness insights
- Multi-band GPS delivers extremely accurate pace and distance tracking
- 13-day battery with AMOLED is exceptional — best in its class
- Race Widget helps plan pacing strategy for upcoming events
Cons
- No built-in maps — only breadcrumb trail navigation
- No music storage on the base model (265 Music has it)
- No cellular connectivity — phone required for notifications
- Proprietary charging cable is easy to forget when traveling
Full Specifications
| Spec | Amazfit Balance | Garmin Forerunner 265 |
|---|---|---|
| Software | Zepp OS 4 | Garmin OS (Connect IQ) |
| Body | ||
| Weight | 35 g (without strap) | 47 g |
| Case material | Aluminum alloy | Fiber-reinforced polymer |
| Water resistance | 5ATM | 5ATM |
| Health & Sensors | ||
| ECG | ||
| SpO₂ | ||
| Skin temperature | ||
| Heart rate | ||
| Sleep tracking | ||
| Battery | ||
| Battery life | Up to 14 days (typical usage) | Up to 13 days (smartwatch), 20 hrs GPS |
| Display | ||
| Size | 46 mm (1.5 inches) | 46mm (1.3 inches) |
| Type | AMOLED | AMOLED |
| Always-on display | ||
| Resolution | 480 x 480 | 416 x 416 |
| Processor | ||
| RAM | 32 MB | — |
| Chipset | Huami proprietary | Garmin custom processor |
| Connectivity | ||
| GPS | ||
| NFC | ||
| Wi-Fi | ||
| Cellular | ||
| Bluetooth | 5.2 | 5.0 |
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This comparison is based on verified manufacturer specifications covering display, performance, camera, battery, and build quality. Scores are generated by analyzing specs across weighted categories on a 10-point scale. Learn more about our methodology.
Explore more in smartwatches, see all Amazfit products or all Garmin products. View full details for the Amazfit Balance or the Garmin Forerunner 265.