As an Amazon Associate, I Earn from Qualifying Purchases. Read Disclaimer
COROS APEX 2 and COROS PACE 3 are two top fitness smartwatches for advanced tracking, durability, and long-lasting performance. The COROS APEX 2 is built with rugged materials and advanced GPS support, while the PACE 3 focuses on lightweight comfort and battery longevity. This comparison will help you decide which one fits your lifestyle best.
Feature-by-Feature Breakdown
Processor:
- COROS APEX 2 features an upgraded processor that increases responsiveness when switching screens and loading maps.
- COROS PACE 3 uses a basic chip that handles core functions.
|
Design:
- COROS APEX 2 includes a titanium alloy bezel that improves resistance to impact during outdoor activity.
- COROS PACE 3 has a lightweight polymer case that prioritizes comfort over durability.
|
Internal Storage:
- COROS APEX 2 includes 4GB internal storage for music playback through Bluetooth headphones without a phone.
- COROS PACE 3 does not include internal storage.
|
Durability:
- COROS APEX 2 has a sapphire glass screen that resists scratches in rugged environments.
- COROS PACE 3 uses Corning Gorilla Glass that protects against basic wear.
|
Connectivity:
- COROS APEX 2 supports Bluetooth and Wi-Fi that enable wireless syncing, firmware updates, and music transfer.
- COROS PACE 3 supports Bluetooth and Wi-Fi for syncing and sensor pairing.
|
Battery Life:
- COROS APEX 2 includes a rechargeable battery that lasts up to 14 days in smartwatch mode and 40 hours in GPS mode.
- COROS PACE 3 provides up to 17 days in smartwatch mode and 38 hours in GPS mode.
|
Fitness Features:
- COROS APEX 2 supports triathlon mode, skin temperature tracking, strength training, and EvoLab metrics that help assess readiness and fatigue.
- COROS PACE 3 supports EvoLab metrics and core sport modes like run, bike, swim, and ski.
|
Navigation:
- COROS APEX 2 supports full offline maps with turn-by-turn breadcrumb navigation and waypoint guidance.
- COROS PACE 3 includes basic breadcrumb navigation without map layers.
|
Operating System:
- COROS APEX 2 runs COROS’s OS with support for offline maps, advanced recovery metrics, and skin temperature tracking.
- COROS PACE 3 runs the same OS but without advanced mapping and temperature data.
|
Specs at a Glance
| Feature |
COROS APEX 2 |
COROS PACE 3 |
| Display |
1.2″ always-on memory LCD, sapphire glass |
1.2″ always-on memory LCD, Corning Gorilla Glass |
| Bezel Material |
Grade 5 Titanium Alloy |
Fiber-reinforced polymer |
| Battery Life (Smartwatch) |
Up to 14 days |
Up to 17 days |
| Battery Life (GPS) |
Up to 40 hours |
Up to 38 hours |
| Satellite Systems |
Dual-frequency + 5 GNSS |
Dual-frequency + 5 GNSS |
| Music Storage |
Yes |
No |
| Offline Maps |
Yes |
Yes (basic breadcrumb navigation only) |
| Water Resistance |
5 ATM |
5 ATM |
| Weight |
53g (with band) |
30g (with band) |
| Multisport Modes |
Yes (incl. Triathlon, Strength, etc.) |
Yes (incl. Run, Bike, Ski, etc.) |
| Heart Rate Sensor |
Next-gen optical HR sensor with skin temp |
Optical HR sensor |
Who Should Buy What?
Buy the COROS APEX 2 if you:
- Want reliable performance and training metrics with Garmin’s trusted software.
- Need music storage for phone-free workouts.
- Prefer having Pulse OX tracking and advanced physiological metrics.
- Value incident detection and smart safety features.
- Appreciate a well-built watch with Garmin’s fitness ecosystem.
Check COROS APEX 2 Best Price
Buy the COROS PACE 3 if you:
- Want a lightweight and modern GPS watch with long battery life.
- Prefer dual-frequency GPS for better accuracy in all environments.
- Are looking for a more affordable option with rich sport features.
- Need advanced navigation features like turn-by-turn routes.
- Don’t mind skipping music or Pulse OX for better value overall.
Check COROS PACE 3 Best Price |
Winner by Category
| Category |
Winner |
| Processor |
COROS APEX 2 |
| Build Quality |
COROS APEX 2 |
| Battery Life |
COROS PACE 3 |
| GPS Accuracy |
COROS APEX 2 |
| Music Storage |
COROS APEX 2 |
| Offline Maps |
COROS APEX 2 |
| Sensor Technology |
COROS APEX 2 |
| Multisport Support |
COROS APEX 2 |
| Training & Metrics |
COROS APEX 2 |
FAQ
Does the COROS APEX 2 support offline maps?
Yes, the COROS APEX 2 supports full offline maps including topographic and landscape layers, allowing users to navigate routes without an internet connection.
Can I store and play music on the COROS PACE 3?
No, the COROS PACE 3 does not include onboard music storage or playback, so you’ll need your phone to listen to music during workouts.
Which watch is better for outdoor activities like hiking and mountaineering?
The COROS APEX 2 is better suited for outdoor activities due to its rugged titanium build, sapphire screen, offline maps, and advanced GPS features.
Is the COROS PACE 3 good for running?
Yes, the COROS PACE 3 is lightweight, comfortable, and includes running-specific features like dual-frequency GPS, EvoLab metrics, and a long battery life ideal for runners.
Do both watches support dual-frequency GPS?
Yes, both the COROS APEX 2 and PACE 3 support dual-frequency GPS and five satellite systems for enhanced accuracy in difficult environments.
Can either of these watches track sleep?
Yes, both watches support sleep tracking with detailed metrics, including sleep stages and duration, through the COROS app.
What is the difference in water resistance between the APEX 2 and PACE 3?
There is no difference; both the COROS APEX 2 and COROS PACE 3 have 5 ATM water resistance, making them safe for swimming and showering.
How long does the battery last on each watch in GPS mode?
The COROS APEX 2 lasts up to 40 hours in full GPS mode, while the COROS PACE 3 provides up to 38 hours, giving the APEX 2 a slight edge.
Can I use these watches for triathlon training?
Yes, the COROS APEX 2 supports full triathlon mode with transitions, while the COROS PACE 3 also includes multisport functionality but with fewer customizations.
Which watch is more comfortable for all-day wear?
The COROS PACE 3 is more comfortable for extended wear due to its lighter 30g weight compared to the 53g APEX 2.