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Android Authority
3 days ago
- Android Authority
The Garmin Forerunner 570 is a powerful running watch but the price is all wrong
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 Kaitlyn Cimino / Android Authority The Forerunner 570 brings almost every modern Garmin feature to the table. It includes dual-band GNSS and a boatload of sport modes (including more than 20 new ones), plus a broad list of health tracking features and uniquely Garmin tools like Body Battery. Health-wise, the device adds overnight skin temperature tracking and past ovulation estimations for those who menstruate. Training-wise, it adds a bit more. Many of its fitness tracking upgrades have been seen elsewhere in the Garmin stable, but new adds include Finish Line Estimates, Automatic Lap by Timing Gate and structured multisport workouts, plus access to new Garmin Coach Triathlon Plans, all of which highlight that this is a watch designed for runners (in case the name didn't make it clear). I used it for tempo runs, long hikes, treadmill sessions, and neighborhood jogs, and it kept up without missing a beat. The 570 packs a range of new features for runners, plus all the expected health and fitness tracking tools. I also loved the addition of Projected Race Time. I don't have any events on the calendar, but checking what my potential 5K or 10K time might be helped me analyze my training regimen, aka motivated me to run a little harder. As for smartwatch tools, the watch still boasts 8GB to support onboard music storage, but now adds a built-in speaker as well as a microphone. This lets you go full James Bond with Bluetooth-connected phone calling as well as voice assistance and onboard voice commands. I can't say I see myself making many calls from my wrist, and I don't typically carry my phone on runs or rides, but the quality here is good if needed in a pinch. Voices came through clearly, and the watch registered my input efficiently. The newest Forerunners also debut Evening Reports, which offer recaps of your activity plus guidance for your evening and the following day. It's basically that one coworker in an excessively long meeting who pays really good attention so they can sum up all the key takeaways at the end in case you zoned out. I love this automated summary and the sleep coach tips it hits me with right as I start thinking about whether or not to put on a show or hit the bed. Kaitlyn Cimino / Android Authority Yet even with a truly bloated feature set, I'm left wanting. With a price tag listed at $549, it is hard to ignore what is missing. First, while the Forerunner 570 features Garmin's Elevate Gen5 optical HR sensor, it does not include the brand's ECG app. This is baffling when you consider the Garmin Venu 3, priced much lower at $349, offers ECG support. It is also a feature shoppers expect from most smartwatches in this price range. Leaving it off makes the watch feel intentionally limited, potentially so that the company can justify the 970s price tag. While the Forerunner 570 boasts Garmin's latest heart rate sensor, it does not feature ECG support. Likewise, the watch doesn't add a flashlight like the 970 and lacks any built-in mapping. I appreciated the ability to follow a breadcrumb trail when I veered off-path, but I am disappointed that the device doesn't have detailed topographic maps like the 970, especially at this price bump. There are other tools differentiating the pricier model from this mid-tier one, and that's fair, but these are the biggest offenders in my mind when asking shoppers to drop half a grand. The 570 is, without a doubt, a better watch than the 265. But it is not a huge leap forward. And when you compare it to the 970, which adds ECG, the 570 feels like it is stuck in a weird in-between space. It is a tough sell when the 265 gives you 90 percent of the experience for $200 less, or the 970 gives you everything for just $100 to $150 more. Accurate as always Kaitlyn Cimino / Android Authority When it comes to core metrics like GPS and heart rate tracking, Garmin is nothing if not consistent. The Forerunner 570 delivers accuracy on both fronts. I compared its dual-band GNSS tracking to routes logged with a chest strap and reference-grade devices, and the results were near flawless. It hugged tight corners accurately, avoided common GPS drift in tree cover and urban areas, and maintained smooth, believable pace and elevation data even during trail runs. On the map above, you can see one of my tracked neighborhood runs that nearly matches the route recorded by my Apple Watch Ultra 2. There are small fluctuations, but not enough to impact my training data, and the two devices recorded identical total distances. Heart rate performance was just as reliable. Across tempo efforts, interval sessions, and long steady-state runs, the Elevate Gen 5 sensor held impressively close to my chest strap readings with minimal lag. I've garnered the same level of results from other devices with the same hardware, like the Venu 3, so I wasn't surprised, but still pleased. Whether you're training by heart rate zone or just need confidence in your data, the 570 doesn't flinch. Garmin Forerunner 570: The verdict Kaitlyn Cimino / Android Authority The Garmin Forerunner 570 is a polished, high-performing, and impressively accurate running watch. It is comfortable, looks great, and has nearly every feature a serious runner could want. But at $549, it is also a watch that feels caught between tiers. It doesn't offer enough over the Forerunner 265 ($449.99 at Garmin), which often goes on sale to below $400, to warrant the price bump for most users, and it holds back just enough to make the Forerunner 970 ($749.99 at Amazon) a better long-term investment. It's a fantastic watch caught in a pricing purgatory. For most people, better value lies on either side. In a vacuum, the 570 is a fantastic watch, but its price and feature set are hard to position in Garmin's stable. Every time I start a Garmin review, I assume I'm going to love the device. The truth is that the company rarely misses. In a vacuum, the Forerunner 570 retains that pattern with reliable hardware, a refined interface, and more training tools than I can reasonably make use of in one review period. But the watch doesn't exist in a bubble, and that makes it hard to recommend. Garmin Forerunner 570 MSRP: $549.00 Accurate running watch. The Garmin Forerunner 570 is a sleek, high-performing running watch with advanced training tools, added smart tools, and highly accurate sensors. See price at Amazon Positives Stylish, attractive aesthetic Stylish, attractive aesthetic Full-color AMOLED display Full-color AMOLED display Updated, more premium UI Updated, more premium UI Accurate heart rate and GPS tracking Accurate heart rate and GPS tracking New training features, especially for runners New training features, especially for runners Added smartwatch tools and Evening reports Cons Baffling price positioning in Forerunner series Baffling price positioning in Forerunner series No ECG support No ECG support No built-in maps
CNN
20-06-2025
- CNN
The best running watches of 2025, tried and tested
The best running watches we tested Best running watch: Coros Pace 3 Best affordable running watch: Amazfit Active 2 Best advanced running watch: Suunto Race While older wearable running devices displayed the basics, such as time, mileage, pace, and heart rate, the best running watches offer all that and more. The latest running gadgets provide valuable insights into your overall stats, sleep and recovery, and stress levels, and they even offer personalized training plans if you're gearing up for a race. Casual runners and marathon finishers alike can benefit from a running watch since most modern wearables learn your habits in a personal way. They track your routines from working out to sleeping, and remind you when it's time to lace up your shoes or take a rest day. The devices learn what effort loads are just right or when you could push yourself a little harder. Some apps even let you note which running sneakers you were wearing so you can keep track of how many miles they've covered. Most running watches also connect to a smartphone app to provide easier-to-read information following your workouts. Some apps are easier to use than others, which can make a big difference as you start tracking your workouts. The testing for this guide was a joint effort by writer Ellen McAlpine, associate editor Jillian Tracy and senior testing editor Rick Stella, who all hit the road and trails running in 11 different watches from top brands like Coros, Garmin and Apple. Thousands of steps, dozens of miles and some slightly embarrassing watch tans later, we've arrived at the finish line of testing. Here's what to know about the best running watches of 2025. Coros Pace 3 The Coros Pace 3 is easy to set up, comfortable to wear and offers loads of insights. While it does have a learning curve, it was simple enough to figure out and use. It also is lightweight, has a solid battery life and comes in at a midrange price point that makes it well worth the spend. Amazfit Active 2 The Amazfit Active 2 was impressive given its $100 price. The watch itself has a wide range of features, shows you loads of stats (even if they're not all necessary) and connects to an intuitive and well-designed smartphone app in which you can access detailed insights. If you're a beginner runner or just working with a tighter budget for your running gadgets, this is a great option to strap on. Suunto Race The Suunto Race is a treat to use with a modern display, great app experience and modes to support all kinds of runners. It's not as lightweight as other watches we tested, and not all runners will need the array of features it offers, but the Suunto Race feels perfectly luxe for its price tag. The Coros Pace 3 soared above the rest when it came to ease of use, price and GPS accuracy. It utilizes a dual-GPS frequency connection that handles well when running through major cities like New York and Philadelphia. Other watches we tested had some wonky routes when searching for signal among the skyscrapers but not the Pace 3. Maps showed straight lines and clear paths that aligned with each city's grid system. We found there was a bit of lag time when connecting to GPS after sitting still for a while (like at a desk or before moving around in the morning). It took roughly five to seven seconds for the watch to connect to a GPS signal. While this is longer than other watches, the Pace 3 connects to GPS ahead of you starting your run. Others we tested searched for a strong signal during the run, which sometimes left the first half mile inaccurate. This was not an issue with the Pace 3. The Pace 3 has a 1.2-inch display that's easy to read both indoors and in direct sunlight, making it simple to check while logging miles on bright days. A flick of the wrist brightens the screen (it has an always-on display that dims when you're not looking at it) and provides you with quick insights into stats like your heart rate, pace, distance and elapsed time. Another plus is that the watch weighs just 30 grams when paired with the nylon band. It has a 'barely there' feel, and the nylon material was particularly comfortable. It's easier to get a custom fit with the wraparound band over a silicone option too. The Velcro was stable, and while McAlpine, who tested this watch, was nervous about the fabric being irritating and itchy after sweating with it on, she was pleased to find it never did. The Coros app is also easy to use and a great hub of information if you're looking to review your stats. The app even uses your data to create training plans that can be downloaded onto your watch and enabled while running. It's a great option for those looking to get across the finish line for their next race. Additionally, the device can track up to 27 different types of workouts aside from running, including things like snowboarding or hiking. For less than $250, the Coros Pace 3 packs in practically everything you could hope for in a running watch. It's easy to set up, use and manage. While Coros claims the battery life lasts for up to 15 days with regular use and up to 38 hours in continuous GPS mode (hello, ultramarathoners), in our testing the watch had roughly 11 days of battery if used for an approximately 30-minute run each day. Still, 11 days is a long time, and with the Coros Pace 3, you're getting top-of-the-line features at a very reasonable price tag. This is about as good a value in the running watch market as you'll find. The Amazfit Active 2 is the best watch you've likely never heard of. The brand first launched in 2015, and the devices it offers are as good as options from top brands, though Amazfit is far more affordable. At just $100, the Active 2 did almost everything watches from Coros, Polar and Garmin did. You can't download music to the device, and the bands were incredibly frustrating to change, but those cons feel nit-picky after seeing everything else the wearable did. The Active 2 has over 160 workout options for you to track, making it an inclusive fitness tracker beyond its running watch capabilities. That said, the running features it has were standouts in testing. Not only was the GPS tracking accurate but it fared well on city streets and had no lag time to connect. This Amazfit wearable gives quick access to data like your pace, distance, elapsed time and heart rate at a glance. While that's standard among running watches, what impressed us most was the display clarity, no matter the sunlight. The 1.32-inch display has 2,000 nits of brightness, which made it very easy to read during testing. The battery life of the Active 2 was almost too good. Even when we finished testing the watch, we could hear it buzzing as texts or calls came in, letting us know it was, in fact, still alive and well. The brand lists the battery life as up to 10 days with regular use, and our testing found that to be the case. We'd be remiss if we didn't spotlight the Zepp app, which is what your Amazfit watch connects to. Zepp is ahead of the game when it comes to detailed insights and AI utilization. You can take a photo of your plate at dinner, and the Zepp AI will roughly determine the caloric intake of your meal. You also get quick access to what the app calls your Core Metrics. These range from your resting heart rate to your mental recovery, which you can log through guided meditations and breathwork sessions. The details you can find through Zepp are those you might get from a subscription model, though you're not paying for anything extra. The premium version of the Active 2 is the same watch but with a sapphire-glass screen that's slightly more durable, and it includes both a silicone and leather band (if you want a more lifestyle aesthetic when you're not running). The premium option only costs $20 more. For less than $150, no matter which model you buy, the Amazfit Active 2 is a do-it-all device that's as reliable as it is affordable. Of the watches we tested, the Suunto Race had one of the most user-friendly and modern-feeling displays. The Suunto Race was released in 2024, so it makes sense that it has a more updated feel compared with other running watches. The corresponding smartphone app has a welcoming design and smartly recaps your training, overall progress and recovery efforts. We also loved the simple three-button layout of the watch, including the center button with a rotating crown that makes it easy to scroll through stats, splits and control panel options. Part of what makes the Suunto Race great is that it's so much more than a running watch. With sport modes for feats like trail running, open-water swimming and cycling, the Race also embraces less common activities like hunting, mermaiding, cricket and even chores. It's a great option for those who enjoy a range of activities and appreciate having data to support each one. The battery life is also strong. Between workouts and daily wear, you can get a solid week out of the Suunto Race. The brand promises up to 50 hours of charge in performance mode and 200 hours in tour mode, which feels accurate given that, when Our tester, Jillian Tracy, took the watch off to test other models, it sat on her desk still more than a third charged after over a week of inactivity. Though she didn't need the advanced map tracking for our runs up and down city blocks, they are helpful if you plan to embark on trail runs or explore paths in unfamiliar areas. In addition to tracking run stats, the Suunto Run also has optimized features for swimming and cycling, like stroke efficiency and interval guidance, which makes it a good option for runners who might also want to dabble in triathlon training. It also tracks health metrics, including those for sleep, recovery and daily calorie burn. Though we loved the robust set of features and user-friendly layout of the Suunto Race, one of its major downsides is its size. Tracy has small wrists, and the high-definition AMOLED screen on the Suunto Race took up the entire top of her wrist. While it makes your stats easier to see at a glance, the stainless steel watch face is heavy for a running watch, weighing in at 2.93 ounces. It's not so heavy that it's unstable or feels insecure (it does have a solid watch band), but it's bulky enough that it might feel uncomfortable to wear daily. If we could have the features of the Race in the compact design of the Suunto Run (more on that model below), this would be a near-flawless watch. Some users also lament that, unlike other lifestyle watches from brands like Apple or Garmin, the Suunto Race can't do contactless payments or download offline music, which, for $400, are features some might feel are nonstarters. The testers for this piece hit the road and trails to log miles and evaluate each running watch before, during and after each run. Here's what we considered as we tested each model. Tracking and GPS accuracy GPS: Each watch we tested has GPS connectivity. We noted whether the watch used assisted GPS (A-GPS) or a single- or dual-frequency GPS, as well as. how many of the five major satellites each device can access simultaneously. Then, after each run, we checked the accuracy of the distance measured and mapped-out routes. Stats and data: We reviewed the information and insights each watch offered, including personal tracking insights and the statistics it showed during and after runs. We also reviewed each device's connected smartphone app and what the user experience was like. Functionality and fit Band options: Testers wore each watch for multiple days, paying attention to how comfortable the watch band was to wear, work out in and sleep in. We looked at how many band options were available for each model and whether different materials and sizes were available. Weight: You want your running watch to pack in features and tech, not extra weight, so we ranked how heavy each watch was compared with other devices tested and noted if it felt heavy on the wrist. Tracking beyond running: The best running watches go far beyond the miles you've covered. Through testing both the devices and connected apps, we reviewed what tracking the watch was able to provide. This ranged from sleep tracking and blood oxygen stats to effort loads and training plans. Other features Battery life: We noted how long the battery lasted for each watch after regular daily use. Since most of the watches we tested also offer sleep tracking, we wore each watch overnight to see how comfortable each was to wear while sleeping, and we reviewed our sleep insights in the morning. Music: Some GPS running watches offer music-downloading capabilities. We noted whether or not the wearable had this feature. Whether you're looking for a watch that handles the basics or you're gearing up for your next race and want to get serious, there's a running watch that gets the job done. After all, technology has come a long way, and the market for wearable devices is vast. From bare-bones options to detailed insights, you'll be able to find what you need if you know where to look. 'Without a doubt, accurate GPS tracking is the most important feature when looking for a running watch,' said Elaina Raponi, a certified National Coaching Certification Program (NCCP) running coach and four-time marathoner. 'This is essential because accurate GPS gives athletes feedback on their distance and pace — arguably the two most important metrics when running.' In our testing, we quickly realized that not all GPS watches are created equal, and an unstable GPS connection can make a huge difference in what your run ends up looking like in tracking. It's also important to consider other statistics and sensors, especially when training for a big race or coming back from injury. 'If you're someone who trains using heart rate zones, an accurate heart rate sensor can be an important feature,' Raponi said. She notes that wrist-based heart rate monitors aren't as precise as chest straps, so if heart rate training is your top priority, you might want to pair your watch with a chest strap for more accurate data. Raponi also suggests considering your device's battery life against your training and overall running goals. 'If you're training for shorter distances like 5Ks or 10Ks, battery life is usually less of a concern, but if you're racing longer events like ultramarathons, you want a watch with a longer battery life — ideally one that can last through several hours of running without needing a recharge.' You should also consider what else a wearable tracks. If you're looking to get sleep insights, discover new running routes or want access to training plans, certain watches have connected apps that provide exactly this. Some come with paid subscriptions to access additional features, while others offer everything you need when you buy the watch. Suunto Run Sport Watch The Suunto Run is a straightforward and super-lightweight watch designed specifically for runners. It has a lot of the same great elements we loved in the Suunto Race but offers a shorter battery life and a less robust set of features. You can tell right away that the Suunto Run is a watch made with runners in mind. Though it has 34 sport modes — including ones for swimming, yoga, tennis and cycling — most are geared toward run-specific tasks like trail running, track running, marathon training and treadmill workouts. Like the Suunto Race, the Run only has three buttons, one of which is the rotating crown button, making it easy to browse your training and daily stats. The three-button design is easy to use and understand, but it might take a minute to feel fully confident using it to navigate the watch's features, especially if you're transitioning from another watch brand. Suunto's Run watch is very beginner-friendly, has an attractive display and a touchscreen watch face, if you'd prefer to navigate without buttons. Part of what keeps the Suunto Run so lightweight is the textile Velcro-like strap. While Tracy had no issues with the watch staying secure on her wrist during runs or daily wear, she wished that the wristband felt a little more luxe for $249. When you unbox the watch, you need to attach the wristband yourself, which was easy enough to do, but it's just one more hurdle that slows down the initial setup process. Plus, if the strap gets wet from sweat, weather or swimming, it will eventually dry out, but if you want to keep wearing it in the meantime, you'll have to deal with a slight damp feeling on your wrist. Tracy also wished the battery life were a bit longer. With 20 hours of battery life in performance mode and up to 40 hours in power-saving mode, the Suunto Race will get you through a workout or two on top of daily wear, but you'll still need to charge it every two to three days, depending on how often you plan to use it. Garmin Forerunner 265S Running Smartwatch Light and low-profile, the Garmin Forerunner 265S is fully capable of tracking your progress, training plan, recovery and vital performance stats, but the five-button layout overcomplicates this small watch. We preferred the sleeker design interfaces offered by other brands at the same or a lower price. Despite the fact that Tracy is a regular Garmin user, she found the five-button design on both Forerunner models she tested to be difficult to navigate. The up and down toggles that control the main navigation are on the left side of the watch, which, for right-handed users, means you have to awkwardly reach over the top of the watch to use them. The array of small buttons just seemed to overcomplicate the navigation and made it harder to quickly toggle between displays while in motion. Tracy preferred the more streamlined two-button design on her personal Garmin Vivoactive watch to the layout of the Forerunners. Garmin's interface is not the warmest design we've seen either, and for constant use, we had to charge it more than we'd like. But when it comes to tracking stats and staying on top of training, the Garmin Forerunner 265S packs a lot of features into a small design. Though you have to program workouts and view more detailed stats in the Garmin app (which is not our favorite interface to use), there's no denying that anyone from beginner runners to daily drivers prepping for a race will be able to benefit from Garmin's expansive and smart tracking. However, for a lower or similar price, you can get comparable benefits from our top Coros or Suunto picks. Garmin Forerunner 165 Music Running Watch The Forerunner 165 Music encompasses the classic and quality build we've come to expect from Garmin watches. Like the Forerunner 265S, the 165 Music is packed with features in a small, easy-to-wear design, but the interface doesn't feel the most modern. Many of the issues we had with the Forerunner 165 Music were the same as those we shared in regards to the Forerunner 265S: small, cramped buttons; shorter battery life than other watches; and a slightly outdated app experience. Compared to the Forerunner 265S, the 165 Music is made more with runners in mind, with fewer multi-sport training and tracking options for things like cycling, water sports and leisure activities. You also won't get access to as in-depth health stats or training plan options, but if you want something to catalog your runs and progress, there's probably no reason to splurge on the Forerunner 265S over the 165 Music. Fitbit Charge 6 Fitness Tracker The Fitbit Charge 6 is a more affordable running watch option, but it just wasn't as impressive as we'd hoped. It's easy to navigate, but the setup was a bit of a pain. The Fitbit Charge 6 has the smallest watch face of any of the running watches in our testing pool, which made it hard to check multiple stats while running. It was easy to start, pause and stop workouts, and the streamlined design is lightweight on the wrist. You don't get the same insights as other options we tested, though, and for a $160 device at full price, you're not getting the same insights you'd get from a running-specific watch. This Fitbit device is a better fit for someone looking to track varying workouts or steps, and it works well as a sleep tracker. Also, you need a Google account to set up the Charge 6 (or any other Fitbit device), which is kind of annoying and specific. You also have the option to subscribe to Fitbit Premium, which gives you further insights into your activity data for $10 per month. Polar Pacer GPS Sport Watch While it offers lots of tracking and training insights, the Polar Pacer is a bit clunky and has some issues connecting to a GPS signal while running through major cities. Polar watches feel like they're designed for intense training, and the Pacer was no exception. While this running watch provided insights and tracking stats, it was almost overwhelming. The watch itself is a little clunky to use and bulkier than other options we tested. The GPS connectivity struggled while running through city streets, resulting in post-run maps that looked comparable to a toddler trying to write their name. The Pacer does announce when it successfully acquires a signal, so if you're in a city and heading toward a park where the skies are clearer, you can opt to start running once the signal has been established. Plus, it'll alert you if the watch loses signal while you're on the move. You'll get some of the deepest sleep and recovery insights from this watch, though, which can be especially helpful as you navigate a training block. Consistent wear of your Polar watch will allow it to build baseline levels for your sleep, cardio load and recovery capabilities, giving you a personalized experience. Apple Watch SE (2nd Gen) The most basic Apple Watch model on the market, the SE, works great as a smartwatch, but it isn't the best running watch. Read our review After training for the New York City marathon with this wearable last year, McAlpine knows how tricky it is to use the Apple Watch SE for running. Especially compared with the other running watches on this list, it isn't ideal for runners who want deep, accurate and consistent stats. You'll get the basics, like your distance, pace and heart rate, but you won't find your recovery levels, the sleep monitoring isn't great and the battery only lasts up to 18 hours, so you have to charge the device daily. If you're looking for an all-around affordable smartwatch, it's a good buy, but a running-specific watch is a better option for those whose Strava kudos keep them going. Apple Watch Series 10 The Apple Watch Series 10 is a more capable wearable than the SE above, but it still has the same single-day battery life that only makes it a viable option for those who tend to run shorter our review The Apple Watch Series 10 isn't a running-specific watch on par with others in our testing pool, but it does offer a deep well of tracking capabilities that may suffice for more casual users (or those who prefer the Apple ecosystem and like its powerful smartwatch features). It has reliable and fast GPS syncing, in-depth fitness data that's easy to view while running and a unique health-tracking system that compiles other info like sleep insights, calories burned, rest and recovery stats, and more. The biggest knock on the Series 10, versus the rest of the product pool at least, is its 18-hour battery life. It's not a problem for those who run shorter distances, but for anyone training for a marathon (or anything longer, like a triathlon or ultra), it may not perform as well as they need. If you're serious about running, there are several other watches in this price range that are better. Apple Watch Ultra 2 The Apple Watch Ultra 2 may be too bulky and heavy for long-distance runners, but its 36-hour battery life does bode well for those logging several miles. This is perfect for trail runners or anyone who needs something more our review The Apple Watch Ultra 2 offers a very similar experience to the Series 10, but the biggest difference lies with its battery, which offers 36 hours of run time as opposed to 18. This makes a big difference for long-distance runners, though we still don't recommend it over our top picks for those who are more serious and dedicated to the sport. However, if you absolutely need to have something Apple on your wrist, this is a fine choice (albeit an expensive one). Apple markets it as its rugged adventure watch, meaning it's heavier and larger than the Series 10, but it's also a bit more capable, plus its case is made of durable titanium. It has a brighter backlit display and is water-resistant up to 100 meters (including compatibility for recreational scuba diving to 40 meters). Its larger size also makes it easier to read while active. It's around $800, though, which doesn't exactly scream 'value' when sitting next to competitors like Suunto, Coros or Garmin. The following FAQs were answered by four-time marathoner and NCCP-certified running coach Elaina Raponi. Which running watches are waterproof? Which running watches are waterproof? Most running watches are water-resistant, with the average depth of resistance being up to 50 meters. Some watches, which have triathlon-training capabilities, will be waterproof for open-water swimming and training. Of the watches in our testing pool, the Coros Pace 3, both Garmin watches, the Amazfit Active 2, both Suunto watches and all the Apple Watches listed above have been designed for wear during water activities. You'll want to note that some fitness trackers, like the Apple Watch line, have a water lock built into the device. You'll need to enable this feature to keep your device safe while in the water. How accurate are running watches at measuring distance? How accurate are running watches at measuring distance? A GPS watch's accuracy is dependent upon the GPS signal it's connected to and what type of access it has to GPS satellites. 'GPS watches are typically pretty accurate when it comes to measuring distance and can track your run within a small margin of error,' Raponi said. However, according to Raponi, running on trails in forests with dense tree coverage, or in a city with tall buildings, a running watch might occasionally lose GPS signal. 'This happens because the watch has to 'guess' your position when the satellite signals are weak or blocked,' she said. 'This is why many runners will manually lap their watch during races where they anticipate accurate GPS being a concern.' What temperature range are running watches effective in? What temperature range are running watches effective in? To get the most accurate temperature range for your running watch, you can check the brand's website or your device's user manual. Extreme temperatures outside of the range of your watch lists could affect performance or battery life, Raponi said, adding that 'for the vast majority of runners, the normal temperature ranges they train in won't be an issue.' For this article, we consulted the following expert to gain their professional insight. Elaina Raponi, four-time marathon runner and NCCP-certified running coach with TeamRunRun CNN Underscored editors thoroughly test all the products in our testing guides and provide full transparency about how we test them. We have a skilled team of writers and editors with many years of testing experience who ensure each article is carefully edited and products are properly vetted. We talk to top experts when relevant to make certain we are testing each product accurately and speaking about the pros and cons of each item. For this article, updates writer Ellen McAlpine, associate editor Jillian Tracy and senior testing editor Rick Stella, who are all experienced runners, tested a range of running watches to determine which wearable is worth buying.
The Guardian
19-06-2025
- The Guardian
Garmin Forerunner 970 review: the new benchmark for running watches
Garmin's new top running watch, the Forerunner 970, has very big shoes to fill as it attempts to replace one of the best training and race companions available. Can a built-in torch, a software revamp and voice control really make a difference? The Guardian's journalism is independent. We will earn a commission if you buy something through an affiliate link. Learn more. The new top-of-the-line Forerunner takes the body of the outgoing Forerunner 965 and squeezes in a much brighter display, useful new running analytics and more of the advanced tech from Garmin's flagship adventure watch the Fenix 8. These upgrades come at a steep cost of £630 (€750/$750/A$1,399) – £30 more than its predecessor – placing it right at the top of the running and triathlon watch pile, although less than the £780 Fenix 8. The 970 is about the same size as the outgoing 965 with a 47mm case and a beautiful, crisp and very bright 1.4in OLED screen. The touchscreen is covered in super-hard sapphire glass similar to luxury watches, while the titanium bezel finishes off the polycarbonate body in a choice of three colours. Quite a lot of the upgrades are trickle-downs from the Fenix 8 and make the 970 a better everyday smartwatch. It has Garmin's new offline voice control system, which allows you to quickly set timers and alarms, access settings or start activities. The watch also connects to your phone's voice assistant and takes calls on your wrist via Bluetooth. A revamped interface speeds up access to notifications from your smartphone by swiping down from the top of the screen. With an iPhone you can view and dismiss text-only notifications but connected to an Android phone you can also see images in notifications and directly reply to them from the watch. The 970 has Garmin Pay for contactless payments, although bank support is limited, and can control music on your phone or download playlists from Spotify, Amazon Music, YouTube Music and others for phone-free music on runs. The best new feature is the LED torch built into the 970's top edge. It was invaluable on the Fenix 8 and is my favourite new addition to the Forerunner. It is bright enough to light your way on the street at night or find things buried in dark cupboards but can be turned a dim red to avoid waking everyone at home. It can also be used as a strobe light for running to help keep you visible at night. The battery lasts about six days with general smartwatch usage, including having the screen on all the time, all-day and night monitoring of health, plenty of notifications and copious use of the torch. The screen has automatic brightness but turning it down one notch in settings, which was still plenty bright enough to see outdoors, added a couple of days to the battery life. Turning the always-on display setting off extended it further to about 12 to 15 days. Screen: 1.4in AMOLED (454x454) Case size: 47mm Case thickness: 13.2mm Band size: standard 22mm Weight: 56g Storage: 32GB Water resistance: 50 metres (5ATM) Sensors: GNSS (Multiband GPS, Glonass, Galileo), compass, thermometer, heart rate, pulse Ox Connectivity: Bluetooth, ANT+, wifi Its predecessor was a fantastic running watch filled to the brim with metrics, helpful analysis and buckets of customisation options, on which the 970 only builds. The screen is large enough to be able to clearly see up to eight data fields on screen at once. Maps look particularly good and are easy to use with touch. It has the latest dual-band GPS, while Garmin's algorithms consistently have higher tracking accuracy than its rivals, even with similar systems. The new Gen 5 Elevate heart rate sensor on the back improves pulse monitoring in tricky conditions, and provides ECG (arrhythmia) readings. The 970 has Garmin's suite of industry-leading fitness, recovery and training metrics, which are joined by a few new and interesting statistics, including two that attempt to help you prevent injury. Impact load quantifies how hard a run is on your body based on its intensity and difficulty compared with an easy, flat run at slower speeds. One fast, hard 7km run was rated as equivalent to a gentler 12km run, which felt about right in my feet and legs and made me consider taking a longer recovery time before the next workout. In addition, the new running tolerance feature tracks your mileage over a seven-day period and advises how much more you can run without increasing your chance of injury. Many runners, including myself, have injured themselves when ramping up their weekly distance too fast when training for a race, which this new stat is an attempt to avoid by giving you suggested guard rails. The 970 also has a new running economy feature that tracks efficiency of your form, including how much speed you lose as your foot hits the ground, but it relies on Garmin's latest heart rate monitor strap, the HRM 600 – a £150 separate purchase. Running battery life is a solid 11-plus hours with its highest accuracy settings and listening to offline music via Bluetooth headphones, or about 16 hours without music. Turning down the screen brightness a bit added several hours to the running battery life, while reducing the GPS accuracy mode can last up to 26 hours. The Garmin isn't entirely about running, triathlon and its 30-plus sport tracking features. It also has a comprehensive suite of general health monitoring tools, including good sleep, activity, stress, women's health and heart health tracking rivalling an Apple Watch or similar. Most of Garmin's most advanced training tools also monitor your recovery from exercise during the rest of the day and night, advising you in the morning and during the day how your body is doing. It has a built-in sleep coach, a running or triathlon coach and various advisers for activity, suggesting when to do a hard workout and when to take it easy. The daily suggested workouts are dynamic and based on your sleep and recovery, so it will never prompt you to do a hardcore workout when you've had a terrible night. These automatic workouts can be replaced by a coaching plan, either using Garmin's solid tools or third-party ones placed on a calendar before a race. The watch is generally repairable with options available via support. The battery is rated to maintain at least 90% of its original capacity after two years of weekly charging. The watch does not contain any recycled materials. Garmin guarantees security updates until at least 21 May 2027 but typically supports its devices far longer. It offers recycling schemes on new purchases. The Garmin Forerunner 970 costs £629.99 (€749.99/$749.99/A$1,399). For comparison, the Garmin Fenix 8 costs from £780, the Forerunner 570 costs £460, the Garmin Forerunner 965 costs £499.99, the Apple Watch Ultra 2 costs £799, the Coros Pace Pro costs £349, the Suunto Race S costs £299 and the Polar Vantage V3 costs £519. Garmin continues to set the bar for running watches with the Forerunner 970. It isn't a dramatic leap over the outgoing Forerunner 965, instead adding a few bits to the already excellent formula. The screen is brighter, covered in scratch-resistant sapphire and ringed by a titanium bezel, which gives it a premium look and feel alongside a more modern and responsive interface. The added bells and whistles of voice control and faster access to notifications make using it as a smartwatch alternative much easier. Though wearing it is still a statement about your sporty priorities compared with an Apple or Pixel Watch. The upgraded heart rate sensor helps keep things locked during more difficult exercises and adds ECG readings for more comprehensive heart health tracking. But it is the built-in torch that is the best addition for daily life. Every watch should have one. Meanwhile, the new impact load and running tolerance features could be very useful for avoiding strain and injury, adding to the already excellent training and recovery tracking. Plus it has market-leading running accuracy and detailed onboard maps for routes or if you get lost. If you want a premium running and triathlon watch with all the bells and whistles, the Forerunner 970 is the best you can get. It just comes at a very high cost. Pros: super bright OLED screen, built-in torch, phone and offline voice control, Garmin Pay, extensive tracking and recovery analysis for running and many other sports, full offline mapping, offline Spotify, buttons and touch, most accurate GPS, ECG. Cons: expensive, limited Garmin Pay bank support, still limited smartwatch features compared with Apple/Google/Samsung watches, battery life shorter than LCD rivals.
Gizmodo
16-06-2025
- Business
- Gizmodo
This Is the Best-Rated Garmin Forerunner, And It's Just Hit a New All-Time Low on Amazon
Whether you're a casual athlete or a regular one, this Garmin suits all profiles. Among the best-rated running watches available today, the Garmin Forerunner series consistently earns top marks from runners and fitness enthusiasts. The Garmin Forerunner 265 and Forerunner 265S are no exception, boasting an impressive 4.7 out of 5 stars across hundreds of Amazon reviews. These two models—the 265S in 42mm and the standard 265 in 46mm—have both dropped to an all-time low price of $349 since Monday morning, down from their original list price of $449. With a discount of $100, this is a great opportunity if you're looking to upgrade your running watch without waiting for Prime Day. See at Amazon Perfect For 5K or Marathon The Garmin Forerunner 265 and 265S are packed with features that cater to both serious athletes and everyday runners. The watch faces are equipped with vibrant, colorful AMOLED displays that make it easy to view your stats and notifications, even in direct sunlight. The AMOLED technology enhances visibility but also helps conserve battery life so that your watch stays powered for long training sessions or busy days. Under the hood, the Garmin Forerunner 265 and 265S are designed to deliver advanced training metrics and in-depth recovery insights: These watches track a wide range of data including heart rate, VO2 max, training load, and training status, and give you a comprehensive picture of your fitness progress. The recovery insights help you understand when your body is ready for another hard workout or when you might need a rest day which makes it easier to avoid overtraining and injury. Whether you're training for a marathon or simply trying to stay active, these features provide valuable feedback to help you reach your goals. Both watches offer built-in GPS so that you can track your runs, hikes, and bike rides with precision. You can also upload your favorite routes and follow turn-by-turn directions right on your wrist. The watches connect seamlessly with your smartphone, so you can receive notifications, control music, and even make contactless payments with Garmin Pay. The lightweight design and breathable silicone strap ensure a secure, comfortable fit even during long runs or intense workouts. The watches are also water-resistant so you don't have to worry about sweat, rain, or accidental splashes. With a battery life that lasts for days on a single charge, you can focus on your training without constantly worrying about recharging your device. The Garmin Forerunner 265 and 265S are among the best running watches you can buy right now, and the current Amazon deal makes them more accessible than ever. Don't wait for Prime Day: this deal is too good to pass up, and the stock won't last long. See at Amazon
Gizmodo
22-05-2025
- Business
- Gizmodo
Amazon Is Going All In for Memorial Day, The Garmin Forerunner 265 Hits an All-Time Low Price
The Garmin Forerunner 265 is one of the most popular running smartwatches on the market, and it is now available for just $349 (which is a 22% discount off its usual $449 price) on Amazon for Memorial Day sale. This price matches its all-time low last seen during Black Friday, which makes it the best opportunity of the year (?) to get your hands on this top-rated device. See at Amazon Best in Class Smartwatch Garmin has been a giant in the sports watch community and the Forerunner 265 shows why the company is so heavily trusted by athletes around the world. Whether you're a beginner looking to get more active or a seasoned competitor training for your next big race, this watch is designed to meet your needs. Its popularity and high user ratings (4.7/5 on Amazon) are no surprise given the breadth of features it offers and the precision of its tracking. The Forerunner 265 stands out immediately with its vibrant 1.3-inch AMOLED touchscreen display which is both colorful and easy to read in any lighting conditions. The watch combines this modern touchscreen with traditional button controls, so it's intuitive to use whether you're mid-run or navigating menus at rest. Its lightweight 46mm design ensures comfort during even the longest workouts, and the robust build means it can handle whatever your training throws at it. The Forerunner 265 also provides as much as 13 days in smartwatch mode and as much as 20 hours in GPS mode. This provides you with the ability to monitor several workouts, sleep and everyday activities without constantly having to worry about running low on power. The watch also excels at everyday health and training consciousness. You'll receive every morning a detailed report of your sleep, recovery, and training opportunities, HRV condition, training readiness, and weather. All this is intended to help you optimize your day and make intelligent decisions about your training intensity. Another cool feature is the race widget which allows you to plan your approach for upcoming events. By entering your course and race data into the Garmin Connect app, you'll receive each day's recommended workout, and it varies depending on your performance and recovery. Your training readiness score takes into account your sleep, recovery, training load and HRV status so that you can be sure you're ready for a tough session or whether today is the day for a rest day. The Forerunner 265 supports over 30 built-in activity profiles, covering everything from running and triathlons to cycling and open-water swimming. This makes it an excellent choice for multi-sport athletes or anyone who likes to mix up their training. With advanced training status indicators, you'll always know whether you're training productively, peaking, or at risk of overtraining. It features multi-band GNSS with SatIQ technology to deliver improved GPS accuracy in tough conditions and adjust battery life accordingly. You will stay connected with smart call and text messages, and through Garmin Pay, you can pay from your wrist. Storage for music allows you to forget your phone and enjoy your favorite songs during your workout. Priced here at this Memorial Day all-time low, it's an unbeatable value for anyone serious about fitness. See at Amazon
