Early in release cycle
Best for: Competitive runners, triathletes, and ultramarathon runners who want the complete Garmin premium running analytics suite: ECG, full maps, running dynamics, Triathlon Coach, and the most durable build in the Forerunner line. Replaces the FR965 as Garmin's top running watch.
Full details →Reaching maturity, next model expected soon
Best for: Android users — especially those in the Samsung ecosystem — who want a premium smartwatch with comprehensive health tracking, Wear OS flexibility, and strong software support. The Ultra suits outdoor-active users who need longer battery life.
Full details →| Garmin Forerunner 970 | Samsung Galaxy Watch | |
|---|---|---|
| Tier | Sports GPS | Smartwatch |
| Platform | iOS & Android | Android only |
| Battery | 15 days | 1.5 days |
| Always-on display | ❌ | ✅ |
| GPS | ✅ | ✅ |
| Cellular | ❌ | ✅ |
| Health sensors | ecg, hr, spo2, hrv, stress, body battery, training readiness, running dynamics, skin temp | ecg, blood pressure, spo2, skin temp, hrv, body comp |
| Released | May 15, 2025 | Jul 25, 2025 |
| Cycle length | 806 days | 366 days |
| Cycle advice | good | neutral |
| Deals advice | neutral | neutral |
| Next model | — | Galaxy Watch 9 (Expected summer 2026) |
The FR970 is the first Forerunner with ECG and a built-in LED flashlight — plus a sapphire crystal lens and titanium DLC case for durability that rivals the Fenix 8.
Turn-by-turn navigation on preloaded worldwide TopoActive maps, combined with AI-powered Garmin Triathlon Coach structured training plans — a premium combination at any price.
Full biomechanics suite (cadence, vertical oscillation, ground contact time, running power) plus Garmin's most advanced heart rate sensor with skin temperature monitoring.
ECG, blood pressure, body composition, SpO2, and advanced sleep coaching — all processed on-device with Galaxy AI.
Answer calls, control SmartThings, and use Galaxy AI features seamlessly across Galaxy phones and tablets.
Access Google Play, Google Maps, Google Wallet, and Samsung's polished One UI Watch 7 interface.