Suunto Race vs Garmin Forerunner 265 (46mm)
At $449 and $449.99, the Suunto Race and Garmin Forerunner 265 (46mm) sit close enough in price to be genuine alternatives — here's how they actually compare.
The Suunto Race brings a 1.43" display, 12 days of typical battery life, built-in GPS to the table.
Global reference price
The Garmin Forerunner 265 (46mm) offers a 1.3" display, 15 days of typical battery life, built-in GPS, 5ATM water resistance.
Global reference price
Specification Comparison
Key Differences
With 15 days of battery life against 12, the Garmin Forerunner 265 (46mm) demands far less charging upkeep than the Suunto Race. Screen size also favors the Suunto Race, at 1.43" versus the Garmin Forerunner 265 (46mm)'s 1.3", making it easier to read notifications and metrics at a glance.
Pros & Cons
Suunto Race
Pros
- Larger 1.43" display
- Lower price
- Built-in GPS
Cons
- Shorter battery life (12 days)
Garmin Forerunner 265 (46mm)
Pros
- Much longer battery life (15 days)
- Built-in GPS
Cons
- Smaller 1.3" display
- Costs a bit more
Which One Is Right For You?
- Suunto Race: Makes the most sense for anyone who prefers a larger, easier-to-read display and wants to spend a little less.
- Garmin Forerunner 265 (46mm): Best for someone who wants to charge as infrequently as possible.
Conclusion
Neither watch is a strict downgrade from the other — each wins on a different practical dimension, so the right pick depends on which of those matters more day to day.
Summary
Suunto Race
Strengths
- Larger 1.43" display
- Lower price
- Built-in GPS
Weaknesses
- Shorter battery life (12 days)
Garmin Forerunner 265 (46mm)
Strengths
- Much longer battery life (15 days)
- Built-in GPS
Weaknesses
- Smaller 1.3" display
- Costs a bit more
There's no universal winner here — match the pick to whichever tradeoff (battery life, screen, or connectivity) actually applies to daily use.