Based on our overall comparison score, Garmin Epix Pro (Gen 2) rates higher at 71/100 versus 60/100 for Garmin Forerunner 965 — a 11-point lead. Garmin Epix Pro (Gen 2) is the stronger overall pick, though the right choice still depends on which specs matter most to you; the full spec table above breaks down every difference.
Garmin Epix Pro (Gen 2) vs Garmin Forerunner 965
Verdict
Our overall take, at a glance
Key takeaways
- Garmin Epix Pro (Gen 2) leads Garmin Forerunner 965 overall by 20 points (84 vs 64 out of 100).
- Garmin Epix Pro (Gen 2) stands out on Battery Life: 744 h, Build Water Resistance: 100 m.
- Best value: Garmin Forerunner 965 (from $600) — the strongest score-per-dollar of the two.
Garmin Epix Pro (Gen 2) leads overall
Garmin Epix Pro (Gen 2)
84
Garmin Forerunner 965
64
Why it stands out
- Battery Life: 744 h
- Build Water Resistance: 100 m
In-depth analysisAI
AI-generated from the cited sources — may be incomplete or inaccurate; verify important details before deciding · generated Jul 2026.
Garmin Epix Pro (Gen 2)
The Garmin Epix Pro (Gen 2) is a premium multisport GPS smartwatch built for outdoor enthusiasts and athletes who require detailed performance tracking. It upgrades the standard model with a more responsive built-in heart rate sensor and a bright AMOLED touchscreen display. The rugged chassis also integrates a built-in physical flashlight and updated software tools like a personalized sleep coach.
Best for athletes seeking rapid wrist-based heart rate response during trainingBest for users who need the utility of a built-in flashlight during night runs or outdoorBest for fitness enthusiasts looking for a premium smartwatch with a highly readable AMOL
Pros
- Upgraded heart rate sensor that detects physiological changes more rapidly
- Vibrant, highly legible AMOLED touchscreen display
- Convenient built-in flashlight for low-light safety and utility
- Continuous software support adding features like Sleep Coach and improved multisport tracking
Cons
- Higher premium price tag compared to the standard non-Pro Epix Gen 2 model
Garmin Forerunner 965
The Garmin Forerunner 965 is a premium multisport smartwatch designed primarily for runners and triathletes. It introduces a high-visibility AMOLED display to the product line, representing a major screen upgrade while preserving the brand's signature long-lasting battery life. The device also integrates native running dynamics tracking and an updated USB-C charging cable.
Best for Multisport athletes wanting clear AMOLED visibility alongside multi-day battery Best for Endurance runners seeking detailed physiological data like chronic training load
Pros
- Vibrant AMOLED screen offers exceptional clarity and brightness
- Retains extended battery life that outlasts many standard AMOLED smartwatches
- Includes updated USB-C connectivity on the charging cable
- Provides native running dynamics and advanced metrics directly from the wrist without external sensors
Cons
- Relies on Garmin's proprietary connector plug on the watch end rather than a universal port
Value for Money
Which is the better deal for the price
Pre-filled with launch prices where known — enter today's price for an up-to-date check. Use the same currency for both.
Garmin Epix Pro (Gen 2)
Garmin Forerunner 965
Physical Comparison
Weigh them up, then compare real dimensions in 3D
Garmin Epix Pro (Gen 2)Garmin Forerunner 965
Garmin Epix Pro (Gen 2) is 17 g (32%) heavier than Garmin Forerunner 965.
Review Videos
Hand-picked expert reviews for each product
Detailed Specifications
The full spec sheet, side by side
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about Garmin Epix Pro (Gen 2) vs Garmin Forerunner 965 comparison
Garmin Epix Pro (Gen 2) and Garmin Forerunner 965 are compared side by side above across every spec in the smartwatches category — including performance, features and design — each scored 0–100 so you can see exactly where one leads the other. Our overall scores are 71/100 for Garmin Epix Pro (Gen 2) and 60/100 for Garmin Forerunner 965.
At launch, Garmin Forerunner 965 was the more affordable option ($600) versus Garmin Epix Pro (Gen 2) ($900). Weigh that against the overall scores (71/100 vs 60/100) and the value-for-money meter above to judge whether the higher-rated model justifies its price for your needs. Current retail prices vary — check the retailer.
If you want the higher-rated smartwatches option overall, Garmin Epix Pro (Gen 2) (71/100) edges out Garmin Forerunner 965 (60/100). But if Garmin Forerunner 965 is cheaper or stronger on the specific specs you care about, it can still be the better buy — use the spec table and strengths profile above to decide.