Amazfit GTR 4 vs Garmin Forerunner 265
The Verdict
Amazfit GTR 4 excels as a value-oriented smartwatch with a larger 1.43-inch AMOLED display (466x466 resolution) and exceptional 14-day battery life in normal mode, stretching to 26 days in basic watch mode. Garmin Forerunner 265 targets serious athletes with superior sports-specific algorithms, more robust health tracking ecosystem, and reliable GPS performance, though its smaller 1.3-inch display and shorter 13-day battery life lag behind. Both feature identical connectivity (GPS, NFC, WiFi, Bluetooth 5.0) and water resistance. GTR 4's lightweight aluminum design (34g) contrasts favorably with Forerunner's heavier polymer build (47g). For casual fitness tracking and everyday wear, Amazfit GTR 4 delivers remarkable battery endurance and display quality at less than half the price. Garmin Forerunner 265 justifies premium pricing only for serious runners requiring advanced training metrics. Choose GTR 4 for best overall value; select Forerunner 265 if professional-grade running analytics justify the $250 premium.
Who Should Buy
Buy the Amazfit GTR 4 if…
- →Large 1.43" AMOLED display is sharp and vivid with always-on option
- →Dual-band GPS rivals Garmin for outdoor tracking accuracy
- →14-day battery is outstanding for an AMOLED smartwatch
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 GTR 4
Pros
- Large 1.43" AMOLED display is sharp and vivid with always-on option
- Dual-band GPS rivals Garmin for outdoor tracking accuracy
- 14-day battery is outstanding for an AMOLED smartwatch
- Built-in speaker and microphone for Bluetooth phone calls
- 150+ sport modes with auto-detection for common activities
Cons
- Zepp OS app ecosystem is extremely limited
- No NFC for contactless payments in most regions
- Cannot reply to notifications — view and dismiss only
- Build quality and software polish trail Apple and Samsung
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 GTR 4 | Garmin Forerunner 265 |
|---|---|---|
| Software | Zepp OS 2.0 | Garmin OS (Connect IQ) |
| Body | ||
| Weight | 52 g (without strap) | 47 g |
| Case material | Aluminum alloy with stainless steel crown | 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 | 46mm (1.43 inches) | 46mm (1.3 inches) |
| Type | AMOLED | AMOLED |
| Always-on display | ||
| Resolution | 466 x 466 | 416 x 416 |
| Processor | ||
| Chipset | Huami custom processor | Garmin custom processor |
| Connectivity | ||
| GPS | ||
| NFC | ||
| Wi-Fi | ||
| Cellular | ||
| Bluetooth | 5.0 | 5.0 |
Related Comparisons
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 GTR 4 or the Garmin Forerunner 265.