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Garmin Forerunner 245 and COROS PACE 3 are two top fitness smartwatches for advanced tracking, durability, and long-lasting performance. The Garmin Forerunner 245 is the newer and more advanced model with a MIP display, broader health tracking, and upgraded fitness features. The COROS PACE 3 is a lightweight and budget-friendly choice with a long-lasting battery and accurate GPS. This comparison will help you decide which one fits your lifestyle best.
Feature-by-Feature Breakdown
Processor:
- Garmin Forerunner 245 features a high-performance processor that ensures smooth performance during multitasking and complex tracking.
- COROS PACE 3 uses a basic chip that handles core functions.
Winner:
Garmin Forerunner 245
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Display:
- Garmin Forerunner 245 features a 1.2-inch transflective MIP display that enhances visibility in sunlight.
- COROS PACE 3 uses a 1.2-inch memory LCD display.
Winner:
Garmin Forerunner 245
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Internal Storage:
- Garmin Forerunner 245 includes 4GB of internal storage that allows to store more music for phone-free workouts.
- COROS PACE 3 does not include internal storage.
Winner:
Garmin Forerunner 245
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Durability:
- Garmin Forerunner 245 has a fiber-reinforced polymer body with Corning Gorilla Glass 3 to withstand daily wear.
- COROS PACE 3 has a plastic body with a mineral glass lens for basic scratch resistance.
Winner:
Garmin Forerunner 245
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Connectivity:
- Garmin Forerunner 245 supports Bluetooth, Wi-Fi and ANT+ to connect external sensors and sync data.
- COROS PACE 3 supports Bluetooth and ANT+ but lacks Wi-Fi syncing.
Winner:
Garmin Forerunner 245
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Battery Life:
- Garmin Forerunner 245 has a rechargeable battery that lasts up to 7 days in smartwatch mode and 24 hours in GPS mode.
- COROS PACE 3 lasts up to 17 days in smartwatch mode and 38 hours in GPS mode.
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Operating System:
- Garmin Forerunner 245 features Garmin’s custom OS that enables in-depth workout metrics and safety features.
- COROS PACE 3 uses a lightweight OS with fewer customization options.
Winner:
Garmin Forerunner 245
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Specs at a Glance
| Feature |
Garmin Forerunner 245 |
COROS PACE 3 |
| Display Size & Type |
1.3″ transflective MIP, 260 x 260 |
1.2″ memory LCD, 240 x 240 |
| Battery Life (Smartwatch) |
Up to 14 days |
Up to 17 days |
| Battery Life (GPS mode) |
Up to 30 hours |
Up to 38 hours |
| Weight |
49g |
30g |
| Dual-Frequency GPS |
Yes |
Yes |
| Music Storage |
Yes |
No |
| Navigation |
Yes (Breadcrumb trail, back to start) |
Yes (Breadcrumb navigation) |
| Heart Rate Sensor |
Gen 4 Elevate sensor |
Optical HR sensor |
| Training Load/Recovery |
Advanced with HRV, VO2 Max, training readiness |
Training load and recovery metrics |
| Sleep Tracking |
Advanced with HRV status |
Yes |
| NFC (Garmin Pay) |
Yes |
No |
Who Should Buy What?
Buy the Garmin Forerunner 245 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 Garmin Forerunner 245 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 |
Garmin Forerunner 245 |
| Display |
Garmin Forerunner 245 |
| Battery Life |
COROS PACE 3 |
| Music Support |
Garmin Forerunner 245 |
| Heart Rate & Pulse |
Garmin Forerunner 245 |
| Build Quality |
Garmin Forerunner 245 |
| Smart Features |
Garmin Forerunner 245 |
FAQ
Does the Garmin Forerunner 245 have built-in music storage?
Yes, the Garmin Forerunner 245 Music edition allows you to store and play music directly from the watch without needing a phone.
Can the COROS PACE 3 track elevation during outdoor workouts?
Yes, the COROS PACE 3 includes a barometric altimeter that accurately tracks elevation changes during activities like hiking and trail running.
Is the Garmin Forerunner 245 suitable for swimming?
Yes, the Forerunner 245 is water-rated to 5 ATM and includes pool swim tracking, but it does not support open water swimming.
Does the COROS PACE 3 support multisport or triathlon mode?
Yes, the COROS PACE 3 includes a dedicated triathlon mode that seamlessly transitions between swim, bike, and run activities.
Can either watch measure blood oxygen levels?
The Garmin Forerunner 245 includes a Pulse OX sensor for spot-checking blood oxygen saturation, while the COROS PACE 3 does not support this feature.
Do both watches support third-party heart rate monitors?
Yes, both the Garmin Forerunner 245 and COROS PACE 3 support external heart rate sensors via Bluetooth or ANT+ connectivity.
Which watch has better GPS accuracy for complex environments?
The COROS PACE 3 provides better GPS accuracy thanks to its dual-frequency GNSS, which is more reliable in cities or mountainous terrain.
Is there Wi-Fi syncing available on either watch?
The Garmin Forerunner 245 Music version includes Wi-Fi syncing, while the COROS PACE 3 does not support Wi-Fi at all.
How long does the battery last on each watch during GPS usage?
The Garmin Forerunner 245 lasts up to 24 hours in GPS mode, while the COROS PACE 3 lasts up to 38 hours, making it better for long training sessions or races.
Can I use these watches for strength training or gym workouts?
Yes, both watches include basic strength training modes, but the COROS PACE 3 supports additional gym activities like HIIT and provides more sport profiles overall.