The competition between the Coros Pace 4 and the Garmin Forerunner 165 highlights the rapid advancements in sports technology. Both of these entry-level sports watches demonstrate how features once exclusive to high-end models are now accessible at a more affordable price. After extensive testing, the strengths of each model are clear, with the Coros Pace 4 emerging as the superior option for serious athletes.
The Coros Pace 4 was launched in November 2025 at a price of $249 / £229. In comparison, the Garmin Forerunner 165, released earlier in February 2024, retails for $249.99 / £249.99 for the standard model, while the music version is priced at $299.99 / £289.99. Both watches are lightweight, making them comfortable for all-day wear, and they include features that cater to athletes of various levels.
Price and Availability
The Coros Pace 4, being the newer entry, offers a robust feature set at its standard price. It is available in black or white, with options for nylon or silicone bands. Discounts on this model are unlikely as Coros generally maintains its price points. On the other hand, the Garmin Forerunner 165 frequently appears in promotional sales, often reduced to $199 / £199 for the standard model and $249 / £249 for the music version.
This pricing strategy positions the Forerunner 165 as a more attractive option for budget-conscious consumers, especially when it is on sale.
Specifications and Design
Both watches share similar specifications, featuring a 1.2-inch AMOLED display with a resolution of 390 x 390 pixels, and both use plastic cases and glass displays. The Coros Pace 4 measures 43.4 x 11.8mm and weighs approximately 40g, while the Forerunner 165 is slightly smaller at 43 x 11.6mm and weighs 39g.
The Coros Pace 4 is equipped with a multi-band GPS system, offering better accuracy, especially in urban environments. In contrast, the Forerunner 165 utilizes standard all-systems GPS. While both models are water-resistant up to 5 ATM, the Pace 4 includes a built-in microphone for voice notes, a feature absent in the Forerunner 165.
Functionality-wise, the Forerunner 165 allows for more customization of its watch face, appealing to users who prefer a tailored experience. Both watches are designed for durability and comfort, making them suitable for continuous wear.
Fitness Tracking Features
The Coros Pace 4 excels in sports tracking capabilities, supporting a variety of activities, including a triathlon mode. This watch can display up to eight metrics simultaneously, offering a comprehensive view of performance. In comparison, the Forerunner 165 focuses more on running, supporting four metrics at a time and lacking multi-sport functionality.
In terms of training analysis, the Pace 4 delivers detailed insights into training loads, a feature typically reserved for more expensive devices. Meanwhile, the Forerunner 165 provides daily suggested workouts, which can help novice runners maintain a balanced training schedule.
Performance and Battery Life
Battery life is a critical aspect of any sports watch. The Coros Pace 4 outperforms the Forerunner 165 in both watch and GPS modes. Users can expect up to 20 days of battery life in watch mode and 24 hours with GPS tracking enabled. In contrast, the Forerunner 165 lasts about 11 days in watch mode and 19 hours with GPS.
In real-world testing, the Forerunner 165 typically lasts three to four days on a charge, while the Pace 4 can stretch to over ten days with the screen set to a raise-to-wake function. This extended battery life makes the Pace 4 a more reliable companion for long training sessions.
Smart Features and Navigation
When it comes to smart features, the Forerunner 165 has an edge. Its music version supports streaming services like Spotify and Amazon Music, alongside NFC payments via Garmin Pay. The Coros Pace 4, however, offers only basic smart functionalities, such as weather updates and notifications.
Both devices provide navigation features, guiding users with breadcrumb trails and turn-by-turn directions. However, neither watch includes offline map capabilities, which may limit their usability in unfamiliar terrain.
Conclusion
In summary, while both the Coros Pace 4 and the Garmin Forerunner 165 offer valuable features for athletes, the Coros Pace 4 stands out as the better choice for serious sports enthusiasts. With superior sports tracking capabilities, extended battery life, and a lower price point, it caters effectively to the needs of dedicated users. The Garmin Forerunner 165 remains a strong contender, especially for those who prioritize smart features and music streaming.
Ultimately, the choice between these two models will come down to individual preferences and specific needs, but the Coros Pace 4 appears to be the more versatile option in the competitive landscape of sports watches.
