Garmin Edge 540 GPS Cycling Computer vs Garmin Forerunner 165 GPS Running Watch (2026)

✍️ By the 247Verdict Editorial Team📅 Updated 05 October 2026

Which is better? We compared both on score, owner ratings, pros and cons.

Garmin Edge 540 GPS Cycling Computer

9.2/10 Excellent

4.6★ (4,200 owners)

Multiband GPS, ClimbPro, GroupTrack, 26hr battery, power meter compatible. Garmin cycling benchmark.

Full Review

Garmin Forerunner 165 GPS Running Watch

8.9/10 Great

4.5★ (6,100 owners)

Entry AMOLED Garmin with training readiness and 11-day battery. The beginner's serious GPS watch.

Full Review

At a Glance

	Garmin Edge 540 GPS Cycling Computer	Garmin Forerunner 165 GPS Running Watch
247Verdict Score	9.2/10	8.9/10
Owner Rating	4.6★ (4,200)	4.5★ (6,100)
Verdict	Excellent	Great
GPS	Multiband	GNSS (single-band)
Battery	26 hours	11 days / 19hr GPS

Quick Verdict

Both are strong choices, but the Garmin Edge 540 GPS Cycling Computer edges ahead with a 9.2/10 vs 8.9/10. Multiband GPS, ClimbPro, GroupTrack, 26hr battery, power meter compatible. Garmin cycling benchmark. That said, the Garmin Forerunner 165 GPS Running Watch is worth considering if Entry AMOLED Garmin with training readiness and 11-day battery. The beginner's serious GPS watch. Check the current price on Amazon →

Pros & Cons Side by Side

Garmin Edge 540 GPS Cycling Computer

Multiband GPS accuracy matches dual-frequency cycling computers at more affordable pricing
ClimbPro displays remaining climb gradient and distance in real-time during ascents
GroupTrack shows all ride companions' positions on the map simultaneously
26-hour battery handles full-day audax rides and multi-day touring without recharging
Garmin's 20-year cycling GPS heritage — the most trusted brand in cycling navigation

No coloured maps — monochrome display limits route readability vs colour alternatives
Premium pricing vs Wahoo ELEMNT BOLT at comparable GPS specification
Garmin Connect subscription for some advanced features

Garmin Forerunner 165 GPS Running Watch

AMOLED display brings Garmin's best screen to the entry price point
Training Readiness score guides workout intensity without overwhelming beginners
11-day battery in smartwatch mode — matches the more expensive Forerunner 265
GPS accuracy from Garmin's trusted GNSS satellite support
Under £200 brings proper training analytics to budget-conscious runners

Single-band GPS (not dual-band like the 265) — less accurate on technical terrain
No HRV status measurement — only in the Forerunner 265+
Smaller feature set vs Forerunner 265 for structured workouts

FAQ

Which is better, Garmin Edge 540 GPS or Garmin Forerunner 165 GPS?

Is the Garmin Edge 540 GPS worth the extra cost?

Yes — Garmin Edge 540 GPS Cycling Computer scores higher at 9.2/10 vs 8.9/10.

Who is the Garmin Edge 540 GPS best suited to?

Multiband GPS, ClimbPro, GroupTrack, 26hr battery, power meter compatible. Garmin cycling benchmark.

Who is the Garmin Forerunner 165 GPS best suited to?

Entry AMOLED Garmin with training readiness and 11-day battery. The beginner's serious GPS watch.

What are the main downsides of each?

Garmin Edge 540 GPS Cycling Computer: No coloured maps — monochrome display limits route readability vs colour alternatives; Premium pricing vs Wahoo ELEMNT BOLT at comparable GPS specification. Garmin Forerunner 165 GPS Running Watch: Single-band GPS (not dual-band like the 265) — less accurate on technical terrain; No HRV status measurement — only in the Forerunner 265+.

Do owner ratings agree with our verdict?

Largely, yes — Garmin Edge 540 GPS Cycling Computer sits at 4.6★ from 4,200 verified Amazon owners, and Garmin Forerunner 165 GPS Running Watch at 4.5★ from 6,100.

As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases. Links below are affiliate links.