Garmin introduces affordable Forerunner 170 smartwatch for beginner runners

Garmin has launched two entry‑level smartwatches aimed at new runners, the Forerunner 70 and the Forerunner 170, the latter available with and without music. The devices retail at $399, $479 and $549, offering features such as a bright responsive display, built‑in GPS, heart‑rate monitoring, Garmin Pay, music playback, training‑readiness assessments, sleep coaching and adaptive workout plans. Battery life is advertised at up to 10 days in smartwatch mode and 20 hours in GPS mode. While priced below Garmin’s premium models, the Forerunner 170 provides beginner‑friendly guidance and health metrics to help users avoid overtraining and improve fitness.