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The Garmin Forerunner 570 is a powerful running watch but the price is all wrong

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Garmin Forerunner 570 The Garmin Forerunner 570 is a sleek, high-performing running watch that nails the essentials and then some, but its price puts it in a strange no man’s land between its better-value siblings. With advanced training tools, added smart tools, and highly accurate sensors, it’s easy to love while wearing it, but unless you find it discounted, it's tricky to justify buying in the first place.

I’ve spent the past few weeks testing the Garmin Forerunner 570, Garmin’s latest addition to its long-running Forerunner lineup. On paper, it’s as close to perfect as a running watch gets. I love everything from its looks to its excellent battery life, and it offers the kind of performance data serious endurance athletes will fully appreciate.

But as good as it is, I’ve come away wondering who it’s actually for. Depressingly priced at a princely $549, it’s too expensive (and frankly too advanced) for casual users, yet probably not comprehensive enough for the high-end Garmin crowd.

Looking the part

Kaitlyn Cimino / Android Authority

Starting with what I genuinely loved, the Forerunner 570’s aesthetics nail the balance between athletic and refined. The watch is available in two case sizes, 42mm and 47mm, both of which feature an aluminum bezel that adds just enough polish to make it elevated without going full luxury. I tested the 42mm model in Cloud Blue, which is white with icy blue detailing, and could easily award it a permanent spot in my everyday wardrobe. It’s subtle, modern, and versatile enough to wear all day, not just during workouts. Both case sizes come in a few different colorways, and while I haven’t worn all of them myself, every version looks equally attractive, even if some are quite a bit bolder.

The full lineup touts colorful AMOLED displays just like the 265 and 965, suggesting Garmin has really nailed the coffin shut on new MIPS in this product line. The 570’s case itself is a little thick, but still lightweight enough to feel plenty comfortable during long runs. The bulk was also non-issue when I wore it to bed for sleep tracking. The adjustable band is soft, breathable, and very easy to rinse. Most importantly, it keeps the watch flush on my wrist with zero movement or bounce during workouts.

With a polished look and a full-color AMOLED display, the Forerunner 570 is as attractive as it is comfortable.

It’s not just the hardware that shines either. Below the glass, Garmin’s revamped interface is also a noticeable upgrade. The updated look, which has been making its way across the Garmin stable, feels long overdue and makes the watch far easier to navigate. The software experience is faster, more modern, and just nicer to use. Overall, it’s a watch that doesn’t scream “serious triathlete,” but definitely whispers it.

A packed feature list with confusing omissions

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