Garmin Forerunner 970 vs Garmin Forerunner 265

The Forerunner 970 is the better watch for serious runners and triathletes: titanium bezel, sapphire lens, built-in color maps, a flashlight, a speaker and microphone, and a larger 1.4-inch AMOLED screen. The Forerunner 265 is the smarter pick for most recreational runners: it has the same AMOLED screen, multi-band GPS, training readiness and daily suggested workouts in a lighter plastic case, and owners report the glass face scratches easily. Reviewers rate both highly, but the 970's materials and navigation justify stepping up only if you race, run trails, or train in low light.

• Choose the Forerunner 970 if you race, run trails, or train before dawn and want maps, a flashlight, and a sapphire-and-titanium build that holds up.
• Choose the Forerunner 265 if you want the core training metrics and AMOLED screen without paying for maps, a flashlight, or premium materials.