Garmin globally introduced three new sports watches aimed at runners: Forerunner 70, Forerunner 170 and Forerunner 170 Music. The devices incorporate advanced performance features that were previously exclusive to significantly more expensive models, redefining value for money in the wearables segment. Sales begin on May 15 in markets including Estados Unidos, Reino Unido and Holanda, with expansion planned into other territories.
The Forerunner 70 succeeds the 55 model, while the 170 line replaces the Forerunner 165. The timing of the launch coincides with important milestones for the brand in endurance sports. Tecnologias that were previously restricted to premium watches now reach more affordable price points, including wrist-based Running Power, Training Readiness and Body Battery for physical readiness analysis.
Telas AMOLED and modernized design
Todos the new models debut with 1.2-inch AMOLED screens and a resolution of 390 x 390 pixels. The five physical buttons maintain the standard navigation configuration. The Forerunner 170 features reduced edges, giving it a more contemporary look compared to the previous generation. The Forerunner 70 is available in six colors:
- Black (black)
- Whitestone (white)
- Citron
- Cool Lavender (lavender)
- Soft Pink (pink)
- Tidal Blue (blue)
Battery Autonomia with Flexible Modes
The Forerunner 70 offers up to 13 days of autonomy in smartwatch mode or 16 hours in dedicated GPS mode. The Forerunner 170 reduces this slightly to up to 10 days in smartwatch mode and 14 hours in All-Systems GNSS mode. Ambos presents a reduction compared to the previous generation of the 170 line. The 170 model includes Battery Saver mode with up to 19 days duration, expanding flexibility of use according to the user’s needs.
Métricas performance and recovery analysis
Technical highlights include wrist-based Running Power with running dynamics analysis such as cadence and stride length. Usuários access Morning Report, Body Battery and Training Readiness, tools that calculate effort level and readiness for the next workout. Cardiac monitoring and heart rate variability (HRV) are present in both models, providing essential recovery metrics to optimize training.
The Forerunner 70 supports more than 80 activity types and offers suggested daily workout guidelines via Garmin Coach. Inclui tools like Morning Report and Evening Report, plus race predictor. The model does not offer contactless payments or local music storage, maintaining a focus on racing features.
Diferenciais of Forerunner 170 and Music variant
The Forerunner 170 incorporates a gyroscope for greater precision of movements and includes Garmin Pay for contactless payments. Adiciona Smart Wake Alarm and Garmin Fitness Coach as exclusive features. The model features more than 50 new training modes compared to its predecessor Forerunner 165, significantly expanding activity coverage. Ambos features real-time location sharing via LiveTrack and smart smartphone notifications.
The Forerunner 170 Music differentiates itself by including 4 GB of internal memory for direct download of music to the watch. Conectividade Wi-Fi and headphone support via Bluetooth increase independence during runs without needing to carry a smartphone. The Forerunner 170 offers turn-by-turn navigation via Google Maps, functionality exclusive to Android devices.
Preços and global market availability
The Forerunner 70 is available for US$249.99, approximately R$1,230 in direct conversion. The Forerunner 170 costs US$299.99 (approximately R$1,475), while the Forerunner 170 Music sells for US$349.99 (approximately R$1,720). Pré – orders open May 15th with availability in markets such as Estados Unidos, Reino Unido and Holanda. Expansão for other territories will occur as the company’s global distribution process progresses in the coming months.
