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COROS PACE 3 and Coros Pace 2 are two top fitness smartwatches for advanced tracking, durability, and long-lasting performance. The COROS PACE 3 is the newer and more advanced model with dual-frequency GPS, navigation, and longer battery life. The Coros Pace 2 remains a popular entry-level fitness watch known for simplicity and long battery life. This comparison will help you decide which one fits your lifestyle best.
Feature-by-Feature Breakdown
Processor:
- COROS PACE 3 features a responsive processor that enables smooth transitions between menus and activity screens.
- COROS PACE 2 uses an older processor that handles basic tracking and interface tasks efficiently.
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Design:
- COROS PACE 3 has a refined lightweight design that enhances comfort for long-duration wear.
- COROS PACE 2 has an ultralight build that remains one of the lightest GPS watches available.
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Display Brightness:
- COROS PACE 3 supports improved backlight settings that enhance readability in low light.
- COROS PACE 2 has basic backlight control that is functional but less flexible.
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Dual Frequency GPS:
- COROS PACE 3 includes dual-frequency GPS that improves location precision in dense areas.
- COROS PACE 2 only includes single-band GPS.
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Battery Life:
- COROS PACE 3 has a battery that lasts up to 17 days in smartwatch mode and up to 38 hours in GPS mode.
- COROS PACE 2 lasts up to 20 days in smartwatch mode and 30 hours in GPS mode.
Winner:
COROS PACE 3 (GPS)
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Fitness Features:
- COROS PACE 3 supports heart rate, sleep tracking, SpO2 monitoring, training plans, and more activity profiles including ski and trail run.
- COROS PACE 2 supports heart rate, sleep tracking, barometer-based elevation, and common modes like swim, run, strength, and treadmill.
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Action Button:
- COROS PACE 3 includes a dedicated action button that simplifies starting workouts or marking laps.
- COROS PACE 2 lacks a secondary button and relies only on the digital crown.
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Music Storage:
- COROS PACE 3 includes 4GB of internal storage that allows music playback during runs without a phone.
- COROS PACE 2 does not support internal music or media playback.
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Sport Mode:
- COROS PACE 3 supports over 30 sport modes including triathlon, skiing, and gym cardio.
- COROS PACE 2 includes essential modes like run, swim, and treadmill with fewer outdoor-specific profiles.
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Specs at a Glance
| Feature |
COROS PACE 3 |
COROS PACE 2 |
| Display |
1.2″ Memory LCD |
1.2″ Memory LCD |
| Display Resolution |
240 × 240 |
240 × 240 |
| Always-On Display |
Yes |
Yes |
| Battery Life (Smartwatch) |
Up to 17 Days |
Up to 20 Days |
| Battery Life (GPS Mode) |
38 Hours (Standard) / 15 Hours (Dual-Freq) |
30 Hours |
| Dual-Frequency GPS |
Yes |
No |
| Weight |
30g (with strap) |
29g (with strap) |
| Barometer |
Yes |
Yes |
| Internal Music Storage |
Yes (MP3 support) |
No |
| Processor & RAM |
Newer gen processor, more RAM |
Older gen processor |
| Workout Modes |
Run, Bike, Ski, Trail Run, etc. |
Run, Swim, Strength, Treadmill, etc. |
| Action Button |
Yes |
No |
Who Should Buy What?
Buy the COROS PACE 3 if you:
- Want dual-frequency GPS for better tracking in cities and mountains.
- Need internal storage for offline music playback during workouts.
- Prefer more outdoor sport profiles like trail run, ski, and hike.
- Value added features like SpO2 monitoring and an action button.
- Are upgrading from an older fitness watch and want more performance.
Check Coros Pace 3 Best Price
Buy the COROS PACE 2 if you:
- Want a highly accurate GPS watch on a tighter budget.
- Prefer a simple, ultralight design without extra features.
- Don’t need music storage or advanced GPS tracking.
- Train mostly in running, biking, or gym settings.
- Value longer smartwatch battery life for everyday use.
Check Coros Pace 2 Best Price |
Winner by Category
| Category |
Winner |
| Processor |
COROS PACE 3 |
| Dual Frequency GPS |
COROS PACE 3 |
| Display Brightness |
COROS PACE 3 |
| Internal Storage |
COROS PACE 3 |
| Battery Life |
COROS PACE 3 |
| Sport Mode |
COROS PACE 3 |
| Action Button |
COROS PACE 3 |
| Health & Fitness |
COROS PACE 3 |
| Durability |
COROS PACE 3 |
FAQ
Does the COROS PACE 3 have better GPS accuracy than the PACE 2?
Yes, the COROS PACE 3 includes dual-frequency GPS, which improves location accuracy in dense environments like cities or forests, unlike the single-band GPS in the PACE 2.
Can I store and play music on the COROS PACE 2?
No, the COROS PACE 2 does not support onboard music storage or playback. Music functionality is only available on the COROS PACE 3.
Which watch has a longer battery life in smartwatch mode?
The COROS PACE 2 has a slightly longer battery life in smartwatch mode, lasting up to 20 days compared to 17 days on the COROS PACE 3.
Is the COROS PACE 3 suitable for trail running and skiing?
Yes, the COROS PACE 3 includes dedicated sport modes for trail running and skiing, making it a better choice for outdoor adventure athletes.
Do both watches support sleep tracking?
Yes, both the COROS PACE 3 and PACE 2 support sleep tracking through the COROS app, providing insights into sleep stages and duration.
Are these watches compatible with iPhone and Android?
Yes, both models are compatible with iOS and Android devices via the COROS companion app.
Is there any difference in display quality between the two?
No, both the COROS PACE 3 and PACE 2 have a 1.2-inch memory LCD with 240 x 240 resolution, though the PACE 3 supports better backlight brightness control.
Do either of these watches support third-party apps or music streaming services?
No, neither the COROS PACE 3 nor PACE 2 supports third-party apps or music streaming platforms like Spotify. The PACE 3 only allows MP3 file transfers.
Can I use the COROS PACE 2 for swimming?
Yes, the COROS PACE 2 includes a swim mode and is water-resistant up to 5 ATM, making it suitable for pool workouts.
Which model is better for advanced athletes and outdoor use?
The COROS PACE 3 is better for advanced athletes due to its dual-frequency GPS, broader sport mode selection, music support, and barometric elevation data.