The AMOLED display delivers a visibly better screen but causes noticeably faster battery drain compared to older Garmin transflective models.

“The AMOLED display looks fantastic outdoors and makes stats easy to read, but I do notice the battery draining quite a bit faster than the older transflective screen Garmins I've had.”

Users who trail run report regretting not purchasing a higher-tier model with full maps, as the 265 lacks this feature.

“I love the bright AMOLED screen and the overall feel of the 265, but I do kind of regret not spending more for a model with full maps because I trail run a lot and miss that feature.”

At least one user reported their Garmin device (570 model) completely failing after only 3 weeks of ownership, requiring a warranty replacement.

“My 570 stopped working suddenly. Only had it for 3 weeks and turned off and now won't turn on. Garmin support is replacing it but still..”

Multiple users (4 mentions, avg severity 1.5, 75% owners) use the watch beyond its rated water resistance guidelines — including inquiries about snorkeling and diving — suggesting the product's water resistance limits are not clearly communicated or heeded.

“As per the instructions but lots of people who get the watch gloss over that 😅 'YoU UsEd wAtEr?!'”

In some markets, the price gap between the 255 and 265 is significant enough that at least one buyer chose the lower-tier model, suggesting the 265's value proposition is market-dependent.

“Will go for the 255 because the price difference on my market is too big to motivate going for the 265. 255 music is 200$ less than the 265.”