Garmin Brings AMOLED Displays to Entry-Level Runners with New Forerunner 170 and 70
Garmin has updated its entry-level running watch lineup with the introduction of the Forerunner 170 and Forerunner 70, bringing AMOLED displays to its most affordable wearables. The launch, confirmed by the company this week, completes a transition for the Forerunner family, which now features high-contrast color screens across every model in the range.
The Forerunner 170 is the direct successor to the Forerunner 165 and features a 1.2-inch AMOLED touchscreen with a 390 x 390 resolution. Beyond the display upgrade, the device includes several high-end software features previously reserved for more expensive models. These include Training Readiness, which assesses how prepared a user is for a workout based on sleep and recovery, and HRV status. The watch also supports cycling power meters, built-in GPS, and Garmin Pay for contactless transactions. Battery life for the Forerunner 170 reaches up to 10 days when used in smartwatch mode.
Budget-Friendly Tracking with the Forerunner 70
The Forerunner 70 is the new entry point for the brand, replacing the aging Forerunner 55. While it also adopts an AMOLED screen, it is designed for simplicity and longevity. It offers a longer battery life of up to 13 days in smartwatch mode, though it lacks some of the hardware found in its sibling, such as a barometric altimeter and a compass. This model focuses on core running metrics, making it a streamlined option for those new to the ecosystem.
Both watches are scheduled for availability starting May 15, 2026. The Forerunner 70 is priced at $249.99, while the more feature-rich Forerunner 170 will retail for $299.99. These releases ensure that even the most basic Garmin running watches now offer the modern display technology found in the flagship models.
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