Garmin has officially revealed its newest budget-friendly running smartwatch, the Forerunner 170, giving fitness fans a more modern-looking option without jumping to premium pricing. Even though it sits in the affordable end of Garmin’s lineup, the Forerunner 170 still delivers several headline features shoppers look for in 2026, including an AMOLED display, built-in sensors like a gyroscope, and battery life that can stretch to around 10 days in smartwatch mode.
Launched alongside the even cheaper Forerunner 70, the Garmin Forerunner 170 arrives in a 42.6 mm case and uses a 1.2-inch AMOLED screen with a crisp 390 x 390 resolution. While the display size matches the previous Forerunner 165, the new model is designed to look more up to date thanks to slimmer bezels, giving the screen a cleaner, more modern appearance on the wrist. Garmin is also offering the watch in four color options, making it easier to match different styles.
Battery performance is solid for the price, though it’s slightly lower than the prior generation. Garmin rates the Forerunner 170 for up to 19 days in Battery Saver Mode (down from 20 days previously), up to 10 days in smartwatch mode (down from 11 days), and up to 14 hours in All-Systems GNSS mode (down from 17 hours). For many runners and gym-goers, that still translates into several days of use between charges, depending on how often GPS workouts are tracked.
There are a few trade-offs to be aware of. Garmin has removed touch/button lock support on this model, and it also drops area calculation and fish forecast features. However, Garmin is clearly positioning the Forerunner 170 as a better training companion than its predecessor by expanding fitness functionality in a big way. The watch adds over 50 workout modes that weren’t available on the Forerunner 165, and it also brings in additional software upgrades such as Smart Wake Alarm, Garmin Fitness Coach, and Shortcuts. Combined with the inclusion of a gyroscope, these updates make the Forerunner 170 a stronger option for users who want more variety in tracked activities and more guidance in their training plan.
Pricing is set at £259 in the UK, €299 in the Eurozone, and $299.99 in the US. Garmin is also selling a version with Wi‑Fi connectivity branded as the Forerunner 170 Music, which costs £50/€50/$50 more than the standard model. Garmin says all versions and color options will be available to order starting May 15.
For anyone shopping for an affordable Garmin smartwatch with an AMOLED screen, expanded workout tracking, and reliable everyday battery life, the Forerunner 170 looks like a compelling new middle ground between entry-level models and higher-end running watches.
