GoKawiilGarmin's most affordable running watches are getting a serious upgrade. The newly announced Forerunner 70 and Forerunner 170 add smarter training tools, brighter AMOLED displays and deeper recovery insights previously reserved for Garmin's pricier watches -- though the improvements also come with higher starting prices.
The Forerunner 70 starts at $250, while the Forerunner 170 starts at $300, replacing the older Forerunner 55, which launched at $200. Both watches are designed for newer runners or casual athletes looking to level up their training without jumping straight into Garmin's premium multi-sport lineup.
Known for its dedicated sports watches across categories like running, cycling, golf and triathlons, Garmin has built a loyal following among athletes thanks to its training-focused software and battery life that often lasts for weeks rather than days. Garmin makes a sports watch for nearly every niche imaginable, but the entry-level Forerunner line has been one of Garmin's most popular gateways into the ecosystem because of its relatively accessible price.
The base model Garmin Forerunner 70 now starts at $250 and comes in six different color options. Garmin/CNET
What it measures, and what's new?
Aside from running, both watches track more than 80 activities like cycling, swimming and strength training. Live metrics include heart rate, pace and distance, Body Battery (which measures energy levels throughout the day), stress tracking and breathing variations. They also have safety features like LiveTrack, which lets you share your location with others during a run.
The biggest headliner, though, is the trickling down of more sophisticated training tools. Garmin is bringing several features previously reserved for higher-end models to its entry-level watches, including Training Readiness, Training Status, wrist-based running power and running dynamics metrics.
Both watches now support Garmin Coach plans that adapt daily based on recovery and performance data. The updated system includes more beginner-friendly run/walk programs and lower-volume training plans designed to help newer runners gradually build endurance. A new Quick Workouts feature also simplifies training setup so you can choose a workout based on how much time you have, as well as your desired intensity level.
Runners looking for more advanced tools like multi-band GPS will still need to step up to Garmin's pricier Forerunner models, like the 570 series, which runs roughly $200 more.
Fit and design
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