# Apple Watch Series 12 vs. Garmin Forerunner 170: 5,000-Step Walk Test Comparison

Canonical page: https://savlume.com/items/ngtm39t4tqdu0hcgmj2yue506
Publisher: Savlume
Published on Savlume: 2026-10-14T05:51:15.204Z
Content updated: 2026-10-14T05:52:12.510Z
Source publication time: 2026-10-14T05:30:00.000Z
Offer status: Unverified

In a head-to-head 5,000-step walk test, Tom's Guide found that both the Apple Watch Series 12 and Garmin Forerunner 170 tracked workout metrics with high accuracy against manual controls. The Garmin was slightly closer in step counts and elevation gain, while both logged identical distance and heart rate figures. The reviewer concluded that the $349 Forerunner excels for runners wanting dedicated training metrics and a lighter plastic build, whereas the Apple Watch (from $399) offers superior general smartwatch functionality and an aluminum case.

## Media review

Tom’s Guide found both watches close to the manual step count and matching on heart-rate readings in this walk test. The Forerunner 170 was slightly closer on step count and climb, while the Apple Watch Series 12 was closer on pace.

Attribution: Tom’s Guide · Dan Bracaglia
AI-assisted summary of source text, not a Savlume hands-on test.

- Source-reported strength: Both watches recorded step totals within 11 steps of the author’s manual count.
- Source-reported strength: Both watches reported identical average and maximum heart rates during the walk.
- Source-reported strength: Garmin’s climb total was six feet from the Strava control; Apple’s was 28 feet away.
- Source-reported limitation: The comparison is based on one walk test, not a broad evaluation across workouts.
- Source-reported limitation: Apple provides an elapsed pace metric rather than the average moving pace reported by Garmin and Strava.

### Which watch was closer to the manual step count?

The Garmin recorded 5,020 steps versus the manual count of 5,014; the Apple Watch recorded 5,003.

### How did their heart-rate readings compare in the walk test?

Both reported an average heart rate of 129 bpm and a maximum of 162 bpm.

### Which watch was closer to the Strava climb control?

The Garmin recorded 371 feet versus the 377-foot control; the Apple Watch recorded 399 feet.
## Evidence and sources

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Tom’s Guide: https://www.tomsguide.com/wellness/fitness-trackers/i-walked-5-000-steps-with-the-apple-watch-12-vs-garmin-forerunner-170-and-the-winner-was-nearly-too-close-to-call

AI-assisted summary of cited source material. Not a hands-on review. Prices and availability can change.