Garmin · From $299.99
Release date May 15, 2026
Recommended
Based on 9 Critic Reviews
7 with a published score, 2 scored from text · How it works
Latest review Aug 27, 2026
Early score: only 9 reviews so far
Critics call the Forerunner 170 a capable, approachable running watch for new and mid-level runners. The AMOLED display, accurate tracking and new Training Readiness and Training Status tools earn praise. Most see it as a software update over the Forerunner 165 and point to the cheaper Forerunner 70 as the better value if the extras are not needed.
“Now complete with Training Status and Training Readiness, the Garmin Forerunner 170 is everything a beginner might need to start running and keep going for years to come.”
“If you’re prepping for your first HYROX or just want a proper running watch that doesn’t cost a fortune, the Forerunner 170 Music is the one I’d point you toward.”
Reviewed the Forerunner 170 Music; no score published.
“The Garmin Forerunner 170 is best for a committed runner on a budget who needs core training, guidance and recovery feedback.”
“For everyone else, the Forerunner 70 delivers much of the same experience at a price that makes Garmin’s ecosystem more accessible than ever.”
Joint review of the Forerunner 170 Music and Forerunner 70; no score published.
“The Garmin Forerunner 170 makes mostly software upgrades to the mid-range running smartwatch, serving both runners and non-runners well.”
Reviewed the Forerunner 170 Music; verdict covers the Forerunner 170 family.
“The Garmin Forerunner 170 (and its sibling, the 170 Music) is a great running watch.”
Covers the Forerunner 170 and 170 Music.
“It's an easy recommendation for new runners, but triathletes and performance-focused athletes will quickly run into its limitations.”
“The Garmin Forerunner 170 is a small but clear upgrade on the Garmin Forerunner 165, with a new user interface that brings in a lot of new software features, including more detailed training analysis for runners.”
“After 6 months on northeast trails and running, the Forerunner 170 is decent for casual to intermediate road running and easy hiking.”
“The Garmin Forerunner 170 is best for a committed runner on a budget who needs core training, guidance and recovery feedback.”
“If you’re prepping for your first HYROX or just want a proper running watch that doesn’t cost a fortune, the Forerunner 170 Music is the one I’d point you toward.”
Reviewed the Forerunner 170 Music; no score published.
“The Garmin Forerunner 170 (and its sibling, the 170 Music) is a great running watch.”
Covers the Forerunner 170 and 170 Music.
“After 6 months on northeast trails and running, the Forerunner 170 is decent for casual to intermediate road running and easy hiking.”
“For everyone else, the Forerunner 70 delivers much of the same experience at a price that makes Garmin’s ecosystem more accessible than ever.”
Joint review of the Forerunner 170 Music and Forerunner 70; no score published.
“The Garmin Forerunner 170 makes mostly software upgrades to the mid-range running smartwatch, serving both runners and non-runners well.”
Reviewed the Forerunner 170 Music; verdict covers the Forerunner 170 family.
“Now complete with Training Status and Training Readiness, the Garmin Forerunner 170 is everything a beginner might need to start running and keep going for years to come.”
“It's an easy recommendation for new runners, but triathletes and performance-focused athletes will quickly run into its limitations.”
“The Garmin Forerunner 170 is a small but clear upgrade on the Garmin Forerunner 165, with a new user interface that brings in a lot of new software features, including more detailed training analysis for runners.”
