Looking Beyond the Garmin Forerunner 170 Music GPS Running Smartwatch? 6 Alternatives Worth a Look
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The Garmin Forerunner 170 Music GPS Running Smartwatch offers a vivid 1.2-inch AMOLED display and built-in music storage for phone-free listening. If you are exploring garmin forerunner 170 music GPS running smartwatch alternatives, you might want a different size or specific durability features. This watch targets runners with its multi-GNSS positioning and over 80 activity profiles, including running and cycling. It also provides Garmin Coach adaptive training plans and running power metrics for structured guidance.
You may prefer a smaller case for smaller wrists or a model with a built-in flashlight for night runs. Some buyers might prioritize a titanium build or wrist-call capability over the standard aluminum construction. The alternatives listed here were chosen because their specifications overlap with the original, such as GPS connectivity and AMOLED screens. Each option shares core fitness tracking capabilities while offering distinct physical attributes or specialized features to suit your specific training needs and preferences.
How these alternatives compare to the 170 Music
Garmin Forerunner 265S 42mm
The Garmin Forerunner 265S 42mm targets runners with smaller wrists. It shares the bright AMOLED display and music storage found in the Forerunner 170 Music. However, it is significantly lighter at 1.38 ounces compared to the 170 Music's 12.6 ounces. The case size is 42mm, which is more compact than the 1.64-inch width of the 170 Music. You get a touchscreen interface similar to the 170. This model is ideal if you find the standard 170 too bulky. It offers the same core GPS tracking and activity profiles. The trade-off is a smaller case that may feel less substantial. Choose this if comfort and a discreet profile are your top priorities over the larger screen real estate of the 170.
Garmin Forerunner 170 Music 43mm
The Garmin Forerunner 170 Music 43mm in Whitestone offers a robust build for dedicated runners. It features an AMOLED touchscreen and GPS connectivity, matching the 170 Music. This version weighs 1.45 ounces, which is much lighter than the 12.6 ounces listed for the original teal model. The width is 0.38 inches, suggesting a slimmer profile. It includes music storage for phone-free listening. The key difference is the focus on extra power capacity and a bright screen. If you value long battery life and a vivid display over a minimalist wrist look, this is a strong option. It retains the training features of the 170 series. Pick this if you need reliable tracking with a focus on endurance metrics.
Garmin Forerunner 165 Music 43mm
The Garmin Forerunner 165 Music 43mm provides an AMOLED display and music storage similar to the 170 Music. It weighs 1.38 ounces, significantly less than the 12.6 ounces of the original. The width is 1.69 inches, slightly wider than the 170 Music. This model is designed for runners who want a larger screen for easier reading during workouts. It includes training features and GPS tracking. The main advantage is the 11-day battery life, which offers more endurance than typical models. You get a practical choice for daily training. If you prioritize battery longevity and a slightly larger display for clarity, this model fits well. It shares the core running metrics but offers better power efficiency for long-term use.
Garmin Forerunner 970 47mm AMOLED
The Garmin Forerunner 970 47mm AMOLED is a premium option with a built-in flashlight. It shares the AMOLED display and GPS connectivity of the 170 Music. This model is designed for runners who need advanced GPS mapping and titanium durability. It weighs significantly less than the 12.6 ounces of the 170 Music, though exact weight is not listed. The width is 6.4 inches, which likely refers to the band length. It offers a large, bright display for visibility. The built-in flashlight is a unique feature not found in the 170. If you run in low-light conditions or need mapping capabilities, this is the superior choice. It sacrifices the music storage of the 170 for advanced navigation tools and rugged construction.
Garmin Forerunner 170 Music 43mm
The Garmin Forerunner 170 Music 43mm in Teal Green is a practical choice for runners. It features an AMOLED screen and music storage, matching the original. This version weighs 1.4 ounces, much lighter than the 12.6 ounces of the original kit. The width is 1.68 inches, very close to the 170 Music. It includes GPS tracking and training features. The main difference is the case size and weight, offering a more comfortable fit for some wrists. It retains the core functionality of the 170 series. If you want the same display quality and music capabilities but prefer a lighter watch, this model is suitable. It is ideal for those who prioritize display quality and training features over the smallest possible case size.
Garmin Forerunner 570 42mm
The Garmin Forerunner 570 42mm Aluminum features a bright AMOLED display and GPS connectivity. It shares the running focus of the 170 Music. This model has an aluminum case, which is lighter than the materials in the 170. It offers wrist-call capability, a feature not present in the 170. The size is 42mm, which is more compact than the 170 Music. It includes training and triathlon activity profiles. The key advantage is the ability to take calls directly from your wrist. If you need communication features alongside your running metrics, this is a better option. It sacrifices the music storage of the 170 for enhanced connectivity. Choose this if you want a smaller, aluminum body with advanced communication tools.
| # | Product | Best for | Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Garmin Forerunner 170 Music Best overall | runners wanting AMOLED screens and music storage | |
| 2 | Garmin Forerunner 265S 42mm Best premium | smaller wrists and AMOLED display lovers | |
| 3 | Garmin Forerunner 170 Music 43mm Also great | Runners needing extra power and a bright screen | |
| 4 | Garmin Forerunner 165 Music 43mm Best budget | runners wanting an AMOLED display and 11-day battery | |
| 5 | Garmin Forerunner 970 47mm AMOLED Best built-in flashlight | Runners needing a flashlight and large AMOLED screen | |
| 6 | Garmin Forerunner 170 Music 43mm Also great | Runners wanting AMOLED displays and music storage | |
| 7 | Garmin Forerunner 570 42mm Best aluminum | Runners needing a smaller 42mm AMOLED watch |
Garmin Forerunner 170 Music
Best for: runners wanting AMOLED screens and music storage
- Display Type
- AMOLED
- Connectivity
- GPS
- Features
- Music
- Activity
- Running
- Dimensions
- 6.6 × 2.7 × 2.7 inches
- Weight
- 12.6 ounces
The Garmin Forerunner 170 Music GPS Running Smartwatch features a 1.2-inch AMOLED display and built-in music storage. It supports multi-GNSS positioning and offers over 80 activity profiles. This watch includes Garmin Coach for adaptive training plans and running power metrics. It is designed for runners who want structured guidance and phone-free listening. The device tracks sleep, stress, and daily energy to help organize your training schedule effectively.
- 1.2-inch AMOLED touchscreen display
- Built-in music storage for phone-free listening
- Multi-GNSS positioning for pace and distance
- Garmin Coach adaptive training plans
- Running power metrics and dynamics
- Heavier build at 12.6 ounces compared to lighter models
- Single size option of 2.7 inches width and height
- Limited to GPS connectivity without cellular options
- You want a vivid AMOLED screen for clear data visibility
- You need structured training plans like Garmin Coach
- You prefer storing music directly on the watch
- You require a smaller case size than 2.7 inches
- You need cellular connectivity for calls without a phone
- You prefer a lighter watch under 12 ounces
Verdict: The Garmin Forerunner 170 Music GPS Running Smartwatch fits runners who value a bright AMOLED display and on-device music storage for their training routines.
Garmin Forerunner 265S 42mm
Best for: smaller wrists and AMOLED display lovers
- Case Size
- 42 mm
- Battery Life
- Up to 15 days
- Display Type
- AMOLED
- Connectivity
- GPS
- Features
- Music
- Activity
- Running
The Garmin Forerunner 265S is a 42mm GPS running smartwatch featuring an AMOLED touchscreen. It offers up to 15 days of battery life in smartwatch mode and up to 24 hours in GPS mode. The device includes music storage and safety features. This model suits runners with smaller wrists who want a lightweight design. It provides training readiness and personalized workout suggestions based on your performance.
- Bright AMOLED touchscreen display
- Up to 15 days battery life in smartwatch mode
- Lightweight 42mm case size
- Built-in GPS connectivity
- Music storage for phone-free listening
- Smaller 42mm case compared to larger 43mm or 47mm alternatives
- Lighter weight may feel less substantial to some users
- Shorter 24-hour GPS battery life than larger models
- You prefer a smaller 42mm watch for smaller wrists
- You want an AMOLED display for clear visuals
- You need up to 15 days of battery life
- You need a larger 43mm or 47mm case
- You require extended GPS battery life beyond 24 hours
- You prefer a traditional non-touchscreen interface
Verdict: The Garmin Forerunner 265S 42mm Pink fits runners with smaller wrists who value a bright AMOLED display and long battery life. It offers solid GPS tracking and music storage for a compact, lightweight build.
Garmin Forerunner 170 Music 43mm
Best for: Runners needing extra power and a bright screen
- Battery Life
- 10 days
- Display Type
- AMOLED
- Connectivity
- GPS, Multi-GNSS
- Features
- Music
- Activity
- Running
- Dimensions
- 1.6 × 0.38 × 1.6 inches
The Garmin Forerunner 170 Whitestone bundle pairs a 1.2-inch AMOLED touchscreen running smartwatch with a 5000mAh power bank. It tracks pace, distance, and heart rate using Multi-GNSS. The watch offers 10 days of battery life and includes training insights like Training Readiness and Body Battery. This bundle suits runners who want detailed metrics and portable charging for longer adventures.
- 1.2-inch AMOLED touchscreen display
- 10-day battery life
- Multi-GNSS tracking for precise location
- Includes 5000mAh power bank in bundle
- Training Readiness and Body Battery insights
- 1.45-ounce weight is heavier than the Forerunner 265S
- 1.6-inch height is larger than the Forerunner 570
- Non-Music version lacks onboard music storage
- You want a larger AMOLED display for easy reading
- You need extra power for multi-day trips
- You prefer detailed training status reports
- You require built-in music storage
- You want the smallest possible wrist profile
- You prefer a lighter watch under 1.4 ounces
Verdict: The Garmin Forerunner 170 Whitestone Bundle delivers robust tracking and a generous battery life for dedicated runners. It fits those who value a bright screen and extra power capacity over a minimalist wrist profile.
Garmin Forerunner 165 Music 43mm
Best for: runners wanting an AMOLED display and 11-day battery
- Case Size
- 43mm
- Battery Life
- Up to 11 days
- Display Type
- AMOLED
- Connectivity
- GPS
- Features
- Music
- Activity
- Running, Training
The Garmin Forerunner 165 Music is a 43mm running smartwatch featuring a bright AMOLED display and built-in GPS. It offers up to 11 days of battery life in smartwatch mode and 19 hours in GPS mode. You can download songs for phone-free listening and access personalized training plans. This device suits runners who want clear visuals and essential metrics without carrying a phone.
- Brilliant AMOLED touchscreen display for clear data reading
- Up to 11 days of battery life in smartwatch mode
- Built-in GPS tracks pace and distance accurately
- Lightweight design at 1.38 ounces for comfortable wear
- 43mm case size is larger than the 42mm options available on other list items
- 19 hours of GPS battery life is less than the endurance of some premium models
- Standard size band limits fit for very small wrists compared to smaller-sized variants
- You want a clear AMOLED screen for easy data viewing
- You prefer a 43mm case size for better visibility
- You need up to 11 days of battery life between charges
- You need a smaller 42mm case size for a snug fit
- You require multi-band GPS for maximum accuracy
- You want a watch with longer than 19 hours of GPS battery life
Verdict: Garmin Forerunner 165 Music 43mm is a practical choice for runners who prioritize a bright AMOLED display and solid battery life. It fits buyers who want a slightly larger screen for easier reading during workouts.
Garmin Forerunner 970 47mm AMOLED
Best for: Runners needing a flashlight and large AMOLED screen
- Case Size
- 47mm
- Battery Life
- Up to 15 days
- Display Type
- AMOLED
- Connectivity
- GPS
- Case Material
- Titanium
- Features
- Built-in Flashlight
The Garmin Forerunner 970 is a 47mm running smartwatch with an AMOLED display and titanium bezel. It includes a built-in LED flashlight for night runs and multi-band GPS for route accuracy. You get up to 15 days of battery life in smartwatch mode. The device supports phone calls and offers ECG monitoring. It suits runners who want premium materials and advanced training metrics.
- Built-in LED flashlight for dark runs
- AMOLED touchscreen with button controls
- Titanium bezel and sapphire lens
- Up to 15 days battery life
- Multi-band GPS and full-color maps
- 47mm case size is larger than the 42mm models on this list
- Renewed condition means it is refurbished rather than new
- Step speed loss data requires a separate HRM 600 monitor
- You prefer a larger 47mm display for better readability
- You need a built-in flashlight for early morning or late-night runs
- You want a premium build with titanium and sapphire glass
- You prefer a smaller 42mm watch case
- You require a brand new device rather than a renewed one
- You do not need a built-in flashlight feature
Verdict: Garmin Forerunner 970 47mm AMOLED is a premium option for runners who value a large, bright display and a built-in flashlight. It fits those who want titanium durability and advanced GPS mapping for their training.
Garmin Forerunner 170 Music 43mm
Best for: Runners wanting AMOLED displays and music storage
- Case Size
- 43mm
- Battery Life
- Up to 10 days
- Display Type
- AMOLED
- Connectivity
- GPS
- Features
- Music
- Activity
- Running, Training
The Garmin Forerunner 170 Music is a 43mm GPS running smartwatch with an AMOLED display. It offers up to 10 days of battery life in smartwatch mode and 20 hours in GPS mode. The device includes built-in music storage and contactless payments. It suits runners who want accurate pace tracking and personalized training plans without carrying a phone.
- 43mm case size with an AMOLED touchscreen
- Up to 10 days battery life in smartwatch mode
- Built-in GPS for accurate pace and distance
- Supports downloaded songs from Spotify and Amazon Music
- Includes Garmin Coach training plans
- 43mm case is larger than the 42mm Forerunner 265S and 570
- 10-day battery life is shorter than the 14-day life of the Forerunner 970
- GPS-only connectivity lacks multi-band precision for complex routes
- You want a lightweight watch for daily runs
- You prefer an AMOLED display for better visibility
- You need music storage on your wrist
- You prefer a smaller 42mm watch profile
- You need multi-band GPS for extreme accuracy
- You want a battery life exceeding 10 days
Verdict: The Garmin Forerunner 170 Music 43mm is a practical choice for runners who value a bright AMOLED screen and onboard music storage. It fits those who prioritize display quality and training features over the smallest possible case size.
Garmin Forerunner 570 42mm
Best for: Runners needing a smaller 42mm AMOLED watch
- Case Size
- 42mm
- Battery Life
- Up to 10 days
- Display Type
- AMOLED
- Connectivity
- GPS
- Case Material
- Aluminum
- Activity
- Running, Training, Triathlon
This Garmin Forerunner 570 features a 42mm aluminum case and an AMOLED touchscreen. It offers up to 10 days of battery life in smartwatch mode. The device includes built-in microphone and speaker for wrist calls. You get personalized training plans and daily workout suggestions. It tracks training readiness and status. This model suits runners who prefer smaller wrist sizes and bright displays.
- 42mm aluminum case fits smaller wrists
- AMOLED touchscreen display with button controls
- Up to 10 days battery life in smartwatch mode
- Built-in microphone and speaker for phone calls
- Personalized Garmin Coach training plans
- 42mm case size is smaller than the 43mm and 47mm options listed
- 10-day battery life is lower than the 18-hour GPS mode duration of some competitors
- You want a bright AMOLED display for clear visibility
- You prefer a smaller 42mm case for your wrist
- You need to make calls directly from your wrist
- You require a larger case size for better readability
- You need a device with a metal bezel other than aluminum
- You prioritize maximum battery life over display brightness
Verdict: Garmin Forerunner 570 42mm Aluminum is a practical choice for runners who want a bright AMOLED screen and wrist-call capability in a compact 42mm aluminum body.
Specifications side by side
| Spec | Garmin Forerunner 170 Music | Garmin Forerunner 265S 42mm | Garmin Forerunner 170 Music 43mm | Garmin Forerunner 165 Music 43mm | Garmin Forerunner 970 47mm AMOLED | Garmin Forerunner 170 Music 43mm | Garmin Forerunner 570 42mm |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Case Size | – | 42 mm | – | 43mm | 47mm | 43mm | 42mm |
| Battery Life | – | Up to 15 days | 10 days | Up to 11 days | Up to 15 days | Up to 10 days | Up to 10 days |
| Display Type | AMOLED | AMOLED | AMOLED | AMOLED | AMOLED | AMOLED | AMOLED |
| Connectivity | GPS | GPS | GPS, Multi-GNSS | GPS | GPS | GPS | GPS |
| Case Material | – | – | – | – | Titanium | – | Aluminum |
| Features | Music | Music | Music | Music | Built-in Flashlight | Music | – |
| Activity | Running | Running | Running | Running, Training | Running | Running, Training | Running, Training, Triathlon |
| Size | – | 42mm | – | 43mm | Adjustable | 43mm | 42mm |
| Dimensions | 6.6 × 2.7 × 2.7 inches | 1.64 × 1.64 × 0.51 inches | 1.6 × 0.38 × 1.6 inches | 1.69 × 1.69 × 0.46 inches | 8.1 × 6.4 × 5.1 inches | 1.68 × 1.68 × 0.47 inches | 8.1 × 6.4 × 4.8 inches |
| Weight | 12.6 ounces | 1.38 ounces | 1.45 ounces | 1.38 ounces | – | 1.4 ounces | – |
| Color | Cool Lavendar | Light Pink & Powder Gray | Non-Music – Whitestone/Cloud Blue | Turquoise | French Gray with Indigo | Teal Green with Citron | Slate with Black Band |
| Model | 010-03920-12_AG2_1 | wa001 | 010-03920-01 | 010-02863-32 | Forerunner 970 | 010-03920-12 | – |
Frequently asked questions
Which Garmin running watch has the smallest case size?
The Garmin Forerunner 265S 42mm and the Forerunner 570 42mm both feature 42mm cases, making them ideal for smaller wrists. The 265S weighs 1.38 ounces and includes a touchscreen. The 570 is built with aluminum and supports triathlon activities. Both offer bright AMOLED displays for clear visibility during runs.
Do any of these alternatives include a built-in flashlight?
Yes, the Garmin Forerunner 970 47mm AMOLED includes a built-in flashlight. This feature helps you see in low-light conditions during early morning or evening runs. It also features a large AMOLED display and titanium durability. It is designed for runners who need advanced GPS mapping and practical lighting tools.
Are there options with touchscreen AMOLED displays?
Several models feature AMOLED screens with touchscreen capabilities. The Forerunner 265S 42mm, the Forerunner 170 Whitestone Bundle, and the Forerunner 570 42mm all include touchscreens. The standard Forerunner 170 Music and 970 have AMOLED displays but do not list touchscreen functionality in their specifications. Touchscreens allow for easier navigation.
Which watch is best for runners with smaller wrists?
The Garmin Forerunner 265S 42mm is specifically noted for smaller wrists. It weighs only 1.38 ounces and has a compact 42mm size. The Forerunner 570 42mm is another option with a 42mm aluminum case. Both provide bright AMOLED displays and music storage, ensuring comfort and functionality for smaller frames.
Do these watches support music storage?
Most listed alternatives include music storage features. The Forerunner 170 Music, 265S 42mm, 170 Whitestone Bundle, 165 Music 43mm, and 170 Music 43mm Teal Green all support music storage. This allows you to listen to tracks without your phone. The Forerunner 970 and 570 do not explicitly list music storage in the provided data.
What material is the Forerunner 570 case made of?
The Garmin Forerunner 570 42mm features an aluminum case. This material offers a durable yet lightweight build suitable for running and triathlon training. It comes in a slate color with a black band. The aluminum construction helps keep the watch comfortable on the wrist during extended workouts.
Which model is considered the best budget option?
The Garmin Forerunner 165 Music 43mm is labeled as the best budget option. It features a 43mm size with an adjustable band and a bright AMOLED display. It includes music storage and supports both running and training activities. Its turquoise color and 1.38-ounce weight make it a practical choice for cost-conscious runners.
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