Garmin Forerunner 170: New Rival to 265?

The Garmin Forerunner 170 has launched, positioning itself as a strong contender in the running watch market due to its lightweight build, precise tracking, and useful smart features. Priced competitively, it offers enhancements over the entry-level Forerunner 70 and is more affordable than the Forerunner 570.

In direct comparison, the older Forerunner 265 remains a formidable option. Despite having slightly older software, it matches many of the Forerunner 170's capabilities and includes upgrades. The Forerunner 170 comes in standard ($299/£259) and music-enabled ($349/£299) versions, while the Forerunner 265, though listed at $449/£369, is frequently found on sale near the 170's price.

Both devices feature bright AMOLED displays and the Elevate Gen 4 heart rate sensor, though neither has Garmin's latest Gen 5 sensor. The Forerunner 170 runs Garmin's newest OS, granting access to widgets like Sports Scores and Stocks, and will receive ongoing software updates. The Forerunner 265, however, offers more advanced multi-band GPS and superior battery life, lasting up to 15 days in watch mode compared to the 170's 10 days.

A key distinction is the Forerunner 265's multi-sport capabilities, including a triathlon mode absent in the Forerunner 170. However, both provide robust training analysis features. GPS accuracy is comparable in real-world testing, with the Forerunner 170's all-systems GPS proving as reliable as the 265's multi-band system for most users.

For triathletes, the Forerunner 265 presents clear advantages. For general runners, the Forerunner 170, particularly the standard model, offers exceptional value, delivering accurate and capable performance for its price point.