Garmin Forerunner 165 vs Garmin Vivoactive 5

The Forerunner 165 is the running-first watch: Garmin's adaptive training plans, a bright AMOLED screen and up to 11 days of battery in a light 43 mm case. The Vivoactive 5 is the broader lifestyle watch: the same screen and battery life, plus Body Battery, sleep coaching, menstrual and pregnancy tracking, wheelchair modes, music and contactless payments. Reviewers of the Vivoactive 5 praise the battery, easy setup and comfort but often call the band too small and the fit awkward. Pick the Forerunner 165 if you train for races; pick the Vivoactive 5 if you want one watch for health, gym and daily life.

• Choose the Forerunner 165 if you run or race and want Garmin's adaptive training plans and running metrics in a light, purpose-built watch.
• Choose the Vivoactive 5 if you want a general health and fitness watch with Body Battery, sleep coaching, music and contactless payments alongside GPS.