Garmin Forerunner 970 vs Suunto Vertical

Both have (5)

• built-in GPS
• blood-oxygen (SpO₂)
• AMOLED display
• offline maps
• swim tracking

Only Garmin Forerunner 970 (3)

• ECG
• on-device music
• contactless payments

Only Suunto Vertical (0)

Nothing unique.

Pick the Garmin Forerunner 970 if…

• You want a lighter watch: 56 g vs 74 g.
• You need ECG, on-device music and contactless payments, which the Suunto Vertical does not list.
• You might switch phones: it works with both iPhone and Android, the Suunto Vertical only works with Android.
• You want the newer model (2025 vs 2023).

Skip it if…

• • You have a small wrist (under about 160 mm) — the 47 mm case we list is large (check whether a smaller size is sold).
• • You are watching your budget — the list price is $749.

Pick the Suunto Vertical if…

• You want to spend less: it lists for $120 less.
• You want fewer charges: about 30 days per charge vs 15 days.
• Your main use is outdoor adventure: it is listed for that and the Garmin Forerunner 970 is not.
• You might switch phones: it works with both iPhone and Android, the Garmin Forerunner 970 only works with Android.
• You swim or paddle: 10ATM vs 5ATM.

Skip it if…

• • You have a small wrist (under about 160 mm) — the 49 mm case we list is large (check whether a smaller size is sold).
• • You want something light enough to sleep in — it weighs 74 g.
• • You are watching your budget — the list price is $629.