Polar H7
Score: 74/100
Garmin Forerunner 165
Score: 82/100Rankings
Garmin Forerunner 165 is an entry-level GPS running smartwatch featuring a vibrant AMOLED screen, up to 11 days of battery life, and comprehensive health metrics like Pulse Ox and recovery insights. It lacks advanced multi-sport modes and built-in music storage, which may limit power users. Best suited for beginners to intermediate runners who value a bright display and long endurance.
The Polar H7 is a chest-strap heart-rate sensor delivering ECG-grade accuracy and a long-lasting CR2025 battery. It lacks ANT+ support and cannot transmit data while swimming, and its older design may feel bulkier. Best suited for athletes who need precise chest-based heart-rate data and long battery life.
| Attribute | | |
|---|---|---|
200 hours | 264 hoursbest | |
| ↓ lower better | 125 g | 39 gbest |
— | 390 pxbest | |
— | 1.2 inbest | |
— | 25best |
Click an attribute name to sort · Green = best, red = worst (relative to this comparison)
| Attribute | | |
|---|---|---|
Battery & Power(1) | ||
Battery Life (hours) | 200 hours | 264 hours |
Build & Design(2) | ||
Weight (g) | 125 g | 39 g |
Strap Material | Elastic | Silicone |
Products in the top-left offer the best value (high score, low price).
Professional reviewers commend the H7 for its ECG-grade accuracy, long-lasting battery, and lightweight belt design, noting its seamless Bluetooth and GymLink integration for a wide range of devices. However, they point out its legacy status, lack of ANT+ and inability to transmit data underwater, making it less future-proof than newer Polar models.
Everyday users appreciate the H7's reliable Bluetooth pairing, comfortable elastic strap, and long battery life, especially for running, gym, and swimming workouts. Recurring complaints focus on occasional pairing hiccups with non-Polar phones, strap stretch over time, and the desire for a lighter, wrist-based alternative.
Professional reviewers position the Forerunner 165 as an excellent entry-level GPS smartwatch, lauding its vivid AMOLED display, personalized Garmin Coach workouts, and robust battery life, while noting the lack of advanced multi-sport modes and optional music as minor drawbacks.
Everyday users consistently praise the watch's lightweight comfort, reliable GPS performance, and long battery endurance, with most comments focusing on its suitability for beginners and the clear, bright screen; few complaints are recorded.
