This model is no longer sold new. It has been replaced by the Garmin Forerunner 970.
Full details →| Garmin Forerunner 965 | Amazfit Balance | |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing | ||
| Starting price | $599 | $299★ |
| Subscription | ℹ️ Optional — $70/yr | ✓ None |
| Hardware | ||
| Weight | 53g | 42g★ |
| Water resistance | 5ATM | 10ATM★ |
| Battery | 23 days★ | 21 days |
| Always-on display | ❌ | ✅★ |
| GPS | ✅ | ✅ |
| Cellular | ❌ | ❌ |
| Platform | iOS & Android | iOS & Android |
| Tier | Sports GPS | Smartwatch |
| Buy timing | ||
| Released | Mar 1, 2023 | Jun 24, 2025 |
| Cycle advice | superseded | neutral |
| Deals advice | clearance | neutral |
| Next model | — | — |
Turn-by-turn navigation on full TopoActive maps — essential for trail running and mountain racing.
Cadence, stride length, vertical oscillation, ground contact time, and running power.
Enough for week-long trail ultras without a charge.
21 days typical use and 33 hours GPS — combined with a scratch-resistant sapphire glass 1.5" AMOLED that outshines most watches at this price.
Precise dual-frequency L1+L5 GPS across six satellite systems, with downloadable offline topo maps and turn-by-turn navigation — rare at this price tier.
First Amazfit with official HYROX training and competition modes, 40,000-course golf maps, and SCUBA dive support — more sport breadth than any previous Balance.
The right pick depends on what you optimize for.
$299 vs $809 over 3 years · no required subscription.
23 days vs 21 days battery.
7 sensors.
42g · no required subscription.
Competitive runners, triathletes, and ultramarathon runners who want full maps, running dynamics, and premium build.
Full details →Android and iPhone users who want a premium smartwatch experience — full offline maps, ECG, long battery, and a bright sapphire display — at a price well below Apple Watch or Galaxy Watch. A strong choice for runners, hikers, and health-focused users who want GPS map navigation without a subscription.
Full details →