Garmin Forerunner 165 GPS Running Watch vs Osprey Talon 22 Hiking Backpack (2026)

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

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

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

Osprey Talon 22 Hiking Backpack

9.1/10 Excellent

4.7★ (18,600 owners)

22L daypack with integrated hydration sleeve, AirScape ventilation, lifetime warranty.

Full Review

At a Glance

	Garmin Forerunner 165 GPS Running Watch	Osprey Talon 22 Hiking Backpack
247Verdict Score	8.9/10	9.1/10
Owner Rating	4.5★ (6,100)	4.7★ (18,600)
Verdict	Great	Excellent
Warranty	1 year	Lifetime

Quick Verdict

Both are strong choices, but the Osprey Talon 22 Hiking Backpack edges ahead with a 9.1/10 vs 8.9/10. 22L daypack with integrated hydration sleeve, AirScape ventilation, lifetime warranty. 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 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

Osprey Talon 22 Hiking Backpack

AirScape trampoline back panel provides genuine airflow — meaningfully cooler than solid-contact packs
Fits both men and women with gender-specific harness options
Integrated hydration sleeve holds 3L reservoir (bladder sold separately)
Dual ice axe loops and hipbelt pockets make it genuinely versatile for technical terrain
Osprey All Mighty Guarantee — warranty coverage for life, including damage

22L is on the smaller side for overnight trips with gear
Hip belt pockets are small — can't fit large phones
Hydration bladder not included despite the sleeve

FAQ

Which is better, Garmin Forerunner 165 GPS or Osprey Talon 22 Hiking?

Is the Garmin Forerunner 165 GPS worth the extra cost?

The Osprey Talon 22 Hiking Backpack matches or exceeds it at a potentially lower price point.

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.

Who is the Osprey Talon 22 Hiking best suited to?

22L daypack with integrated hydration sleeve, AirScape ventilation, lifetime warranty.

What are the main downsides of each?

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+. Osprey Talon 22 Hiking Backpack: 22L is on the smaller side for overnight trips with gear; Hip belt pockets are small — can't fit large phones.

Do owner ratings agree with our verdict?

Largely, yes — Garmin Forerunner 165 GPS Running Watch sits at 4.5★ from 6,100 verified Amazon owners, and Osprey Talon 22 Hiking Backpack at 4.7★ from 18,600.

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