970 a good watch to buy or too many issues?

I should add that I think that the additional hardware is a little under utilised and there could be some software improvements to exploit it e.g. spoken alerts on the watch for more of the activity tracking and performance metrics such as Intensity Minutes, Stairs climbed, Steps Performance Condition etc, better support when answering calls on the watch vs phone etc.

I think the LED could/should have been placed where the yellow strip (sensor guard?) is between the START and LAP buttons and this would have been more useful as a torch (USA: flashlight) as it faces in the direction of the wrist more like a head-torch, whereas where it is now it is more useful to make a person who is running visible in the dark especially with the blink modes.  I find that often my sleeve slips over the watch and blocks the beam when I'm moving around in the dark.  

Because of the direction the LED faces I don't think it can currently fully substitute for a head-torch when camping for example whereas if the LED were between the buttons it probably could, which would be one less thing to carry/get lost/keep charged up/find in dark in the tent.

Perhaps there will be a future Fenix watch with an LED on both sides since this is more outdoor focused?

Meh, I now have the 970 for 1.5 months and come from the 955. 

In overall use responsiveness is ok, starting and saving activities you do notice some lag (compared to the 955) but doesn't bother me too much. During maps responsiveness is bad though, for example when you make a turn it takes like 5 seconds for the map to also turn (the arrow indicating you does turn instantly).

For running/hiking not AS much of an issue because you still have the context of the area and all, but still... Very disappointing for a watch costing 750 euros originally.

You just notice in everything the cpu is just managing, and at moments not managing.

However, still really like it. Pleasantly surprised by amoled, battery life if just fine for me so far (1.5-2weeks including 3-4 runs a week, no AOD though), flashlight is nice, etc.

Had 1 or 2 lockups/crashes so far which is 1-2 too many but ok... Been with Garmin long enough to not expect too much of their software unfortunately.

Few minor bugs, but it's done (and is doing!) the job it was bought to do. No complaints here.

I got my 970 about three weeks ago now after my 965 and I am very happy with it. I find the new OS layout good and so many more setting options one can set up taht makes many items more adaptable in my view. Im happy with my decision, Ive had no major issues for my use cases being Yoga, pilates , Running , pool Swimming , Walking. I did also upgrade my HRM Pro Plus to teh HRM 600 .