Garmin Forerunner 970 vs Garmin Forerunner 170 Music

The Forerunner 970 is the serious training and racing watch: titanium case, sapphire lens, 1.4-inch AMOLED, multi-band GPS with SatIQ, full-color maps, an LED flashlight and up to 26 hours in GPS mode. The Forerunner 170 Music is the simpler, lighter running watch: 41g, 1.2-inch AMOLED, 80+ sports apps and Garmin Coach beginner plans, with up to 20 hours of GPS battery. Owners of the 970 praise its accuracy and mapping; the 170 Music suits newer runners who want guidance without the bulk or complexity.

• Choose the Forerunner 970 if you race, train on trails, or want maps, multi-band GPS, a sapphire lens and a flashlight on your wrist.
• Choose the Forerunner 170 Music if you are new to running, want guided plans and a light 41g watch, and do not need maps or trail navigation.