Buy Garmin Forerunner 230 Apr 2026

If you want a cheap, reliable GPS watch that doesn't need to be charged every night and you don't care about wrist-based heart rate, it’s a steal. If you want modern smart features or built-in heart rate tracking, you might want to look at the Forerunner 45 or Forerunner 55 instead. Garmin Forerunner 230 & 235 In-Depth Review - DC Rainmaker

Here’s the story: the was a legendary mid-range running watch when it launched around late 2015. It was known for being the "no-nonsense" athlete's choice—lightweight, with a massive battery life that could last over a month in watch mode.

Unlike its sibling (the Forerunner 235), the 230 does not have a built-in optical heart rate sensor on the back of the watch. To track your heart rate, you’ll need to pair it with a chest strap. buy garmin forerunner 230

It sounds like you're looking for the "backstory" on buying a , or perhaps a little guidance on whether it’s still the right move today.

When it was new, it retailed for around $250–$330 , but you can likely find it much cheaper now on the secondhand market. If you want a cheap, reliable GPS watch

This model has been officially discontinued by Garmin. You won't find it new on their shelves, so your best bet is hunting for "New Old Stock" or used units on platforms like eBay or Amazon .

However, if you are looking to buy one now, there are a few things you should know: It was known for being the "no-nonsense" athlete's

Even years later, reviewers like those at Canadian Running Magazine praise it for its simplicity and accuracy in tracking distance and pace. It’s a great "purity" watch—just you, the GPS, and your splits.