Our verdict
A compact AMOLED running watch with deep Garmin training guidance and payments, but no maps, multi-band GPS or music storage.
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What we like
- Bright AMOLED touchscreen
- Lightweight 41 g design
- Training readiness and status
- Garmin Pay and altimeter
What to consider
- No maps or multi-band GPS
- No onboard music on base model
- No hands-on testing in this desk review
- Shorter battery than Forerunner 70
Desk review: This Garmin Forerunner 170 review is based on current official Garmin Australia product information and documentation, not hands-on testing. Australian price and specifications were checked on 5 August 2026.
The Forerunner 170 sits one step above Garmin’s entry-level Forerunner 70. At A$479, it keeps the same compact 1.2-inch AMOLED format while adding Garmin Pay, floor tracking, animated workouts and extra cycling metrics.
It is aimed at runners who want structured training and recovery insights plus everyday payment convenience, without moving to the multi-band GPS, multisport profiles or maps of Garmin’s premium watches.
Garmin Forerunner 170 price in Australia
Garmin Australia lists the black Forerunner 170 at A$479. The price was verified on 5 August 2026 on the official Garmin Australia product page. Prices and availability can change.
The A$80 step from the Forerunner 70 chiefly buys Garmin Pay, a barometric altimeter for floors and elevation, animated workouts and expanded cycling support. The base Forerunner 170 does not include onboard music; that is reserved for the separate Music model.
Design and display
Garmin specifies a 42.6 × 42.6 × 11.9 mm case, 41 g weight and a 20 mm quick-release band. The 1.2-inch AMOLED touchscreen has 390 × 390 resolution and an optional always-on mode. Water resistance is rated 5 ATM.
The compact dimensions should appeal to runners who dislike bulky watches, but we have not worn or durability-tested this unit. Our comfort score reflects official size and weight only.
Running and training features
The Forerunner 170 includes training readiness, training status, daily suggested workouts, Garmin Coach plans, VO2 max, recovery time, race predictor, PacePro and wrist-based running dynamics. These features help organise training and interpret recent workload, but they do not replace individual coaching.
Garmin lists more than 80 activity profiles and adds animated workouts on the 170. Compared with the Forerunner 70, the barometric altimeter tracks floors climbed and supports additional cycling metrics when compatible accessories are connected.
The watch uses standard satellite reception rather than multi-band GPS and does not include offline maps. Garmin claims up to 20 hours in GPS-only mode and 14 hours using all satellite systems. We have not compared its position, pace or heart-rate data with reference equipment.
For a broader training setup, RunHQ carries running shoes, running socks and running accessories.
Health and recovery
Garmin provides wrist heart rate, Body Battery energy monitoring, sleep score and insights, HRV status, stress tracking, Pulse Ox and women’s health features. Training readiness combines sleep, recovery and training-load signals to frame how prepared you may be for the day.
These readings are wellness and training tools rather than medical measurements. Garmin’s relevant disclaimers apply, and this desk review makes no independent accuracy claim.
Battery life
Garmin claims up to 10 days in smartwatch mode, four days with the display always on, 19 days in battery-saver mode, 20 hours in GPS-only mode and 14 hours using all satellite systems. Actual runtime varies with display, notifications, sensors and activity recording.
The published GPS runtime is ample for common road races on paper, though long ultras may require a watch with longer high-accuracy endurance.
Smart features
Garmin Pay is the key everyday upgrade over the Forerunner 70, subject to participating Australian banks and payment networks. The watch also provides phone notifications, safety and tracking features when paired to a compatible phone, and access to Connect IQ. The base model controls phone music but does not store downloaded music.
Pros and cons
Pros
- Bright 1.2-inch AMOLED touchscreen
- Lightweight 41 g design
- Training readiness, status and Garmin Coach
- Garmin Pay contactless payments
- Animated workouts and barometric altimeter
Cons
- No multi-band GPS or offline maps
- No onboard music on the base model
- No hands-on accuracy or comfort testing in this desk review
- Shorter claimed battery life than Forerunner 70
Scores
- GPS and running tools: 8.4/10
- Heart-rate and recovery tools: 8.6/10
- Comfort and design: 8.7/10
- Value: 8.4/10
- Overall: 8.5/10
Garmin Forerunner 170 review: verdict
The Garmin Forerunner 170 is a balanced mid-entry running watch for athletes who want AMOLED presentation, substantial training guidance and Garmin Pay in a compact package. The A$479 price makes most sense for runners who will use payments, animated workouts and the altimeter; otherwise the Forerunner 70 covers many core features for less.
Frequently asked questions
How much is the Garmin Forerunner 170 in Australia?
Garmin Australia listed the black model at A$479 when checked on 5 August 2026.
Does the Forerunner 170 have Garmin Pay?
Yes, subject to supported banks and payment networks.
Does it store music?
The base Forerunner 170 does not. Music downloads are available on the separate Forerunner 170 Music model.
How long does the battery last?
Garmin claims up to 10 days in smartwatch mode, 20 hours in GPS-only mode and 14 hours using all satellite systems.
Was this watch hands-on tested?
No. This is a source-verified desk review based on official Garmin Australia information.
Sources: Garmin Australia product page and Garmin support. Official image credit: Garmin Ltd., official Garmin Australia product image.
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Compare your options
For a wider shortlist and another model to consider, see our best running watches in Australia guide and Garmin Enduro 3 Review. Compare the features you need with your training, phone compatibility and budget.
