Garmin Forerunner 70 & 170 First Reviews: Best-Value Entry Running Watches in 2026

Garmin's new Forerunner 70 ($249.99) and Forerunner 170 ($299.99) are now available and shipping from Garmin.com. Early reviews are calling them the best value running watches Garmin has ever released.

Key Specs

• Display: 1.2-inch AMOLED touchscreen with 5-button layout
• Battery: Up to 13 days (Forerunner 70) / 10 days (Forerunner 170)
• Sensors: Elevate Gen4 optical HR, GPS (all GNSS systems)
• Training features: Daily suggested workouts, Garmin Coach, Training Readiness, Training Status, VO2 Max
• Forerunner 170 extras: Barometric altimeter, compass, gyroscope, temperature sensor
• Forerunner 170 Music: Onboard music storage + Garmin Pay NFC ($349.99)

Why It Matters

Garmin's full physio stack — previously reserved for $400+ watches — now starts at $249.99. This undercuts the Apple Watch Series 11 ($259) while offering 5× the battery life and purpose-built running tools that Apple can't match.

What This Means for Buyers

If you're a runner shopping under $350, the Forerunner 70 and 170 just became the default recommendations. The $50 premium for the 170 gets you an altimeter and compass — worth it if you trail run. The 170 Music at $349 adds offline Spotify and Garmin Pay. Compare all options in our smartwatch guide.