Garmin Forerunner 970
The definitive running watch for serious athletes with 21-hour multi-band GPS, Elevate Gen5 sensor with medically-certified ECG, and industry-leading training metrics.
Our Verdict
The definitive running watch for serious athletes. Industry-leading GPS accuracy, medically-certified ECG, 60+ sport modes, and comprehensive training metrics including unique 'Running Tolerance' and 'Impact Load' features unavailable elsewhere.
Score Breakdown
Pros & Cons
✓ Pros
- •Industry-leading GPS accuracy
- •Medically-certified ECG
- •60+ sport modes
- •Built-in LED flashlight
- •Full-color offline maps
- •Garmin Coach training plans
✗ Cons
- •Battery dropped from 23 to 15 days
- •Running Economy requires $130 HRM-600 strap
- •Premium price
Specifications
| Display | AMOLED |
| Battery | 15 days / 21hr GPS |
| Water Resistance | 50m |
| GPS | Multi-band GNSS |
| Sensor | Elevate Gen5 |
| Health | ECG, SpO2, HRV |
Who Is This For?
Best For
- ✓Serious runners
- ✓Triathletes
- ✓Data-driven athletes
Not For
- ✗Casual fitness users
- ✗Budget shoppers
- ✗Those wanting long smartwatch battery
Where to Buy
Appears In
Best Wireless Earbuds 2025
Ranked #1
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