| Garmin Fenix | Garmin Forerunner 170 | |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing | ||
| Starting price | $999 | $299★ |
| Subscription | ℹ️ Optional — $70/yr | ℹ️ Optional — $70/yr |
| Hardware | ||
| Weight | 53g | 43g★ |
| Water resistance | 10ATM★ | 5ATM |
| Battery | 16 days★ | 10 days |
| Always-on display | ✅★ | ❌ |
| GPS | ✅ | ✅ |
| Cellular | ❌ | ❌ |
| Platform | iOS & Android | iOS & Android |
| Tier | Sports GPS | Sports GPS |
| Buy timing | ||
| Released | Aug 25, 2026 | May 15, 2026 |
| Cycle advice | good | good |
| Deals advice | neutral | good★ |
| Next model | — | — |
Double the map storage of the Fenix 8, with 50% more RAM and 30% faster map panning for routable built-in maps.
AMOLED on every Fenix 9, with up to 29 days on the 51mm. The Fenix 9 Pro Solar reaches up to 57 days with solar charging for trips where charging is impossible.
Stamina zones, expanded rucking with adjustable pack weight, and indoor rowing metrics join Garmin's existing training analytics, plus a 40m dive rating.
Training Readiness, full Training Status, and wrist-based running power — analytics previously reserved for Garmin's mid-range — now on a $299.99 watch.
A bright 1.2" AMOLED touchscreen with a traditional 5-button design, up to 10 days of battery in smartwatch mode and around 17 hours of GPS.
Contactless payments arrive on the entry Forerunner for the first time, alongside 80+ built-in sports apps and Garmin Coach adaptive training plans.
The right pick depends on what you optimize for.
$509 vs $1209 over 3 years.
16 days vs 10 days battery.
11 sensors.
43g.
Expedition athletes, adventure racers, triathletes, mountaineers, and divers who need the most capable and durable GPS watch Garmin makes. Also for anyone who wants Garmin's best — full stop.
Full details →Beginner and intermediate runners who want real GPS accuracy and Garmin's analytics depth without the price of the 570 or 970. With Training Readiness and running power now included, it closes much of the gap to Garmin's mid-range — the default first serious GPS watch.
Full details →