Between the VERTIX 2S and Forerunner 265, the VERTIX 2S comes out ahead in gps mode and smartwatch mode, while the Forerunner 265 wins on several specs. Overall, the VERTIX 2S scores 66.9 and the Forerunner 265 scores 42.8 on our Mars Score.
Which should you buy?
The VERTIX 2S is the clear pick on raw spec strength, leading by 24.1 points on the Mars Score. The margin is wide enough that the underdog only makes sense if its individual strengths line up with what you specifically need.
Pick the VERTIX 2S if you care most about gps mode and smartwatch mode. The biggest gaps in its favor are gps mode, smartwatch mode, solar charging.
The Forerunner 265 similarly doesn't carry a headline advantage on the popular specs — look at the full table for category-specific deltas.
Both ship with comparable multi-band gps, ecg, so those specs don't separate the two — focus on the differences below.
Bottom line: the VERTIX 2S is the safer default. The other model is the right choice only when its specific advantages line up with your priorities.
Why Coros - VERTIX 2S wins
- ▲GPS mode — 391.67% more. 118 h vs 24 h.
- ▲Smartwatch mode — 223.08% more. 42 days vs 13 days.
- ▲Has Solar charging.
Why Garmin - Forerunner 265 wins
- No decisive advantages.
Spec comparison
GPS & Sensors
| Spec | Coros - VERTIX 2S | Garmin - Forerunner 265 |
|---|---|---|
| Multi-band GPS | true | true |
| Barometric altimeter | truelead | false |
| Heart rate | true | true |
| ECG | false | false |
| Pulse Ox | true | true |
Battery
| Spec | Coros - VERTIX 2S | Garmin - Forerunner 265 |
|---|---|---|
| Smartwatch mode | 42 dayslead | 13 days |
| GPS mode | 118 hlead | 24 h |
| Solar charging | truelead | false |
Design
| Spec | Coros - VERTIX 2S | Garmin - Forerunner 265 |
|---|---|---|
| Case size | 50.3 mmlead | 46 mm |
| Weight | 84 g | 47 glead |
| Water resistanceⓘ | 10 ATMlead | 5 ATM |
Spec-level deep dives
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