**Garmin Vivoactive 5 vs. Forerunner 165: The Ultimate $199 Black Friday Offers for New Garmin Users**
If you’ve been thinking about transitioning to Garmin for your fitness tracking, Black Friday 2023 could be the ideal moment to start. With the Garmin Vivoactive 5 and Forerunner 165 both available for $199, there are two fantastic choices for first-time Garmin users. But which one fits your needs best? Let’s explore the features of these two devices to help you make an informed decision.
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### **Why Choose the Vivoactive 5 or Forerunner 165?**
Garmin presents a wide array of smartwatches, ranging from the top-tier Fenix 7X Pro to the adaptable Instinct 2 Solar. However, these high-end models often come with steep prices, even during promotions. For those new to Garmin, it’s prudent to start with a more budget-friendly alternative to determine if the brand’s ecosystem and training resources align with your needs.
At $199, both the Vivoactive 5 and Forerunner 165 offer an ideal entryway into Garmin’s domain. They deliver a solid set of features without the intricate complexity or high costs associated with Garmin’s flagship devices. Furthermore, they both come with Garmin’s signature training metrics, making them perfect for athletes and fitness lovers alike.
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### **Garmin Vivoactive 5: Your Versatile Option**
The Garmin Vivoactive 5 is a versatile smartwatch that serves a wide range of athletes and fitness enthusiasts. Here’s why it stands out:
#### **Key Features:**
– **AMOLED Display:** The Vivoactive 5 features a stunning 1.2-inch AMOLED touchscreen, providing sharp visuals that are easily readable in bright sunlight.
– **Battery Life:** With a remarkable 11-day battery life, you won’t have to frequently recharge.
– **Sports Modes:** It accommodates a diverse selection of sports, from basketball to skiing, rowing, and even golf, complete with features such as greens and hazards views.
– **Music Storage:** The Vivoactive 5 offers built-in music storage for Spotify and Deezer playlists without additional costs, unlike the Forerunner 165.
– **Sleep Coach:** This advanced feature delivers personalized advice on your sleep needs for optimal recovery.
– **Wheelchair Mode:** A distinctive feature for wheelchair users, offering customized activity tracking.
– **Durability:** The Gorilla Glass 3 display ensures resilience, guarding against everyday wear and tear.
#### **Who Should Consider the Vivoactive 5?**
If you’re a multi-sport athlete or someone who appreciates smartwatch functionalities like music storage, sleep tracking, and an elegant design, the Vivoactive 5 is your optimal choice. It’s also well-suited for those seeking a versatile device that manages everything from gym sessions to outdoor escapades.
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### **Garmin Forerunner 165: The Ideal Partner for Runners**
The Forerunner 165 caters specifically to runners and hikers, providing tailored tools to boost your training and performance.
#### **Key Features:**
– **Running Metrics:** The Forerunner 165 is equipped with advanced running tools such as daily suggested runs, running power metrics, and training effect analysis. It also monitors running form and offers recovery recommendations post-run.
– **Elevation Tracking:** Featuring a built-in altimeter, the Forerunner 165 tracks elevation variations, making it perfect for trail runners and hikers.
– **AMOLED Display:** Similar to the Vivoactive 5, it sports a 1.2-inch AMOLED display for vivid and clear visuals.
– **Battery Life:** Matches the Vivoactive 5 with an 11-day battery life.
– **Morning Report:** Conveys a daily overview of your sleep, recovery, and readiness for training.
– **Durability:** Though it skips the aluminum bezel of the Vivoactive 5, its polymer bezel remains lightweight yet sturdy.
#### **Who Should Consider the Forerunner 165?**
For avid runners or hikers, the Forerunner 165 is the clear choice. Its dedicated running metrics and elevation tracking features make it a valuable asset for enhancing performance and tackling tough terrains.
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### **Direct Comparison: Vivoactive 5 vs. Forerunner 165**
| Feature | Vivoactive 5 | Forerunner 165 |
|————————|———————————–|———————————|
| **Price** | $199 | $199 |
| **Display** | 1.2-inch AMOLED | 1.2-inch AMOLED |
| **Battery Life** | 11 days | 11 days |
| **Sports Modes** | Extensive, including golf | Targeted on running and hiking |
| **Music Storage** | Yes | No |
| **Sleep Tracking** | Advanced
