Why You Can Trust TechRadar
Why you can trust TechRadar
We spend hours testing every product or service we review, so you can be sure you’re buying the best. Find out more about how we test.
Overview of the Garmin Forerunner 70
The Garmin Forerunner 70 is a significant upgrade from its predecessor, the Forerunner 55, which targeted beginner runners. With enhanced features, this new watch caters to a broader range of users while maintaining Garmin’s hallmark quality.
Design and Display
One of the standout features of the Forerunner 70 is its AMOLED display, complemented by a user-friendly touchscreen. This marks a clear evolution from the simpler designs of previous iterations. The watch combines the abilities of a modern smartwatch with the traditional feel of a running watch, as it retains physical buttons for navigation.
Though the always-on AMOLED screen might reduce battery life, it significantly enhances the user experience, particularly in terms of brightness and color richness. Users can view their data clearly, even in bright outdoor conditions.
Upgraded Sensors and Tracking Features
While it doesn’t incorporate Garmin’s latest multi-band GPS or the Gen 5 Elevate optical sensor, the Forerunner 70 features improved GNSS capabilities and a Gen 4 heart rate sensor. This combination still delivers reliable GPS and heart rate tracking performance, making it a strong contender in the smartwatch category.
The watch introduces essential training features, including access to Garmin’s Connect IQ store, expanding its usability. This allows users to access morning and evening reports, along with various other training insights and configurations.
Functionality and Smart Features
For users looking for more than just a basic running watch, the Forerunner 70 delivers with features typically found in higher-end models. It supports breadcrumb-style navigation, which is invaluable for exploration or finding the way back after runs. The training readiness metric helps you gauge when to train or rest, providing enhanced insights into your training regimen.
Despite lacking features like music playback and contactless payments, it maintains a balance of functionalities that cater well to its user segment.
Performance in Real-World Scenarios
After testing the Forerunner 70 under various conditions such as outdoor running, pool swimming, and indoor cycling, it performed admirably well. The GPS tracking remains reliable, even in congested urban settings, and heart rate monitoring proved solid when compared to dedicated heart rate straps.
Although it doesn’t feature the latest dual-band GPS technology, it holds its own against higher-priced models, showcasing Garmin’s capability to deliver quality performance even at a mid-range price point. Users can expect a battery life of up to five days under heavy use, which is commendable in this category.
Pricing and Market Position
The Forerunner 70 is priced at $249.99, placing it in the mid-range market. This price reflects enhancements made in both hardware and software, unlike its predecessor that was more budget-friendly (<$200). Competing models like the Suunto Run offer cheaper alternatives, but the Forerunner 70 stands out in terms of Garmin's software ecosystem and overall experience.
Additionally, it competes favorably against the Forerunner 170, which is priced higher but includes more advanced features like contactless payments.
Conclusion
Ultimately, the Garmin Forerunner 70 offers a blend of advanced features and traditional smartwatch capabilities. It effectively bridges the gap between entry-level and advanced running watches, making it an appealing choice for runners looking for reliability and performance. With its extensive features and solid performance metrics, it’s not just an upgrade—it’s a worthy investment for serious runners.
- Garmin Forerunner 70 GPS Watch at Amazon for £215.03
Specifications at a Glance
Component | Garmin Forerunner 70 |
Price | $249.99 USD / £219.99 UK / $399 AUS |
Dimensions | 42.6mm wide, 11.9mm thick |
Weight | 40g |
Case/bezel | polymer case, polymer bezel |
Display | 1.2-inch AMOLED Screen, 390 x 390 px resolution |
GPS | GNSS, 6 satellite systems |
Battery life | Up to 5 days of heavy use, or 13 days typical |
Connection | Bluetooth, ANT+ |
Water resistance | 5 ATM |
(Image credit: Future / Mike Sawh)
For a complete review of the Garmin Forerunner 70, you can find more details here.
Image Credit: www.techradar.com
