# TLDR Review: Garmin Forerunner 165 Music

*Published: 2026-05-01 | Updated: 2026-05-01 | Source: https://shopsavvy.com/reviews-tldr/garmin-forerunner-165-music*

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## Product: Garmin Forerunner 165 Music
**Brand:** Garmin

## Pros
- Features a vibrant AMOLED display, making it easy to read and navigate during runs and workouts.
- Offers built-in music storage, so you can listen without carrying your phone—great for gym or outdoor runs.
- Provides detailed training metrics and recovery insights, helping you optimize your performance.
- Compact and lightweight at 36 grams, adding minimal bulk on your wrist.
- Stylish black/slate gray color that looks sleek and modern.
- Garmin's reputable brand for fitness wearables, known for reliable tracking and durable build quality.
- Supports a variety of training modes, catering to different sports and workout preferences.
- User reviews highlight the convenience of having music and training data in one device.
- Good battery life for a smartwatch with a color display and music features.
- Easy to use interface, according to user feedback.

## Cons
- Some users mention the smartwatch's screen can be overly bright or glare in direct sunlight.
- A few reviews note that the music storage capacity might be limited for very large libraries.
- Not as many advanced smartwatch features (like third-party app support) compared to higher-end models.
- The lack of a heart rate monitor in some similar Garmin models may lead to slower data readings; check if the model supports HR tracking.
- Some users found the setup process to be slightly complicated initially.
- Not suitable for swimming or water-based activities, as it's primarily designed for running and fitness.
- The battery life, while decent, could be shorter if using music and GPS simultaneously for extended periods.
- The device does not include LTE or standalone calling features.
- Replacement or additional bands might be limited or more expensive.

## Bottom Line

The Garmin Forerunner 165 Music is a solid choice for runners and fitness enthusiasts wanting an eye-catching, lightweight smartwatch with music capabilities and detailed training insights. Its colorful AMOLED display and trusted Garmin tracking make it appealing, but you're likely to want a model with more advanced features if you're after a full-featured smartwatch experience. If music storage and fitness metrics are your top priorities, this is a reliable and stylish option.

## Pros vs Cons at a Glance

| Pros | Cons |
|------|------|
| Features a vibrant AMOLED display, making it easy to read and navigate during runs and workouts. | Some users mention the smartwatch's screen can be overly bright or glare in direct sunlight. |
| Offers built-in music storage, so you can listen without carrying your phone—great for gym or outdoor runs. | A few reviews note that the music storage capacity might be limited for very large libraries. |
| Provides detailed training metrics and recovery insights, helping you optimize your performance. | Not as many advanced smartwatch features (like third-party app support) compared to higher-end models. |
| Compact and lightweight at 36 grams, adding minimal bulk on your wrist. | The lack of a heart rate monitor in some similar Garmin models may lead to slower data readings; check if the model supports HR tracking. |
| Stylish black/slate gray color that looks sleek and modern. | Some users found the setup process to be slightly complicated initially. |
| Garmin's reputable brand for fitness wearables, known for reliable tracking and durable build quality. | Not suitable for swimming or water-based activities, as it's primarily designed for running and fitness. |
| Supports a variety of training modes, catering to different sports and workout preferences. | The battery life, while decent, could be shorter if using music and GPS simultaneously for extended periods. |
| User reviews highlight the convenience of having music and training data in one device. | The device does not include LTE or standalone calling features. |
| Good battery life for a smartwatch with a color display and music features. | Replacement or additional bands might be limited or more expensive. |
| Easy to use interface, according to user feedback. |  |

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*About this review: We pulled together findings from professional and user reviews, and cross-referenced them with ShopSavvy's pricing data from thousands of retailers to give you the short version.*