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 →First-generation product — no release history to base predictions on
Best for: Competitive road and trail runners who want Suunto's clean and precise GPS tracking, an AMOLED display, and multi-week battery life. A strong choice for Suunto loyalists or anyone exploring alternatives to Garmin and COROS.
Full details →| Garmin Forerunner 970 | Suunto Race | |
|---|---|---|
| Tier | Sports GPS | Sports GPS |
| Platform | iOS & Android | iOS & Android |
| Battery | 15 days | 26 days |
| Always-on display | ❌ | ✅ |
| GPS | ✅ | ✅ |
| Cellular | ❌ | ❌ |
| Health sensors | ecg, hr, spo2, hrv, stress, body battery, training readiness, running dynamics, skin temp | hr, spo2, hrv, training load |
| Released | May 15, 2025 | May 1, 2023 |
| Cycle length | 806 days | null days |
| Cycle advice | good | neutral |
| Deals advice | neutral | neutral |
| Next model | — | — |
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.
Suunto's efficient software keeps the AMOLED always active while delivering 26 days of smartwatch use — ahead of most AMOLED competitors.
Dual-frequency L1+L5 GPS for accurate tracking in urban areas, under tree cover, and on technical trails.
Built-in route navigation from Suunto's route library with breadcrumb maps and back-to-start guidance.