Three weeks into using the Coros Pace 3, my initial skepticism has largely evaporated. I’m a runner, not a triathlete, not a data fanatic obsessed with every micro-metric, just a runner who likes to know how far I’ve gone, how fast I was doing it, and, crucially, if I’m going to be late for dinner because I took the scenic route. My old phone died when I was mid-run, which is when I realized how dependent I’d become on GPS tracking. I needed a dedicated watch, and after some research (and a budget check!), the Pace 3 kept popping up. Its reputation for accurate GPS, long battery life, and a surprisingly user-friendly interface, all at a price point that didn’t require selling a kidney, was incredibly appealing.
The unboxing experience was… fine. Nothing flashy, just a simple box containing the watch, the charging cable (a proprietary USB-C deal – more on that later), and some basic instructions. The watch itself is lightweight, almost shockingly so. I’m used to chunky smartwatches, and this felt like strapping a feather to my wrist. It’s also aesthetically pleasing. The design is clean and minimalist, which I appreciate. I got the black version, which blends in well with everyday wear. I wouldn’t call it a fashion statement, but it doesn’t scream "look at me, I’m a tech geek!" which is a bonus for me.
Setting up the watch was a breeze. The Coros app (available on both iOS and Android) is intuitive and easy to navigate. Pairing the watch with my phone was seamless, and within minutes, I was customizing the watch faces and setting up my activity profiles. I’m a simple person, so I configured the watch to display the essentials during my runs: distance, time, pace, and heart rate.
The GPS accuracy is the real star of the show. I’ve tested it on various routes, from open roads to trails with tree cover, and the Pace 3 consistently delivered accurate distance and pace data. I compared it to my friend’s more expensive Garmin watch, and the difference was negligible. This is a huge win, especially considering the price. I’ve also noticed a significant improvement in GPS lock time compared to some other budget-friendly watches I’ve used. Getting a signal usually takes only a few seconds, which is crucial when you’re itching to start your run.
Battery life is another standout feature. Coros claims up to 24 days in smartwatch mode and 24 hours with continuous GPS tracking. In real-world use, I’ve found these claims to be pretty accurate. I typically run three to four times a week, and I only need to charge the watch once every two weeks. This is a game-changer. I hate the constant charging of some smartwatches. I can just grab the Pace 3 and go without worrying about whether it’s charged. The charging cable, however, is a proprietary USB-C, which is a minor annoyance. I’d prefer a standard USB-C cable for convenience, but it’s a small price to pay for the overall performance.
The Pace 3 excels in its simplicity. The user interface is clean and uncluttered. Navigation is done primarily through the digital dial, which rotates to scroll through menus and press to select. This is a much more intuitive method than the touchscreens I’ve used on other watches. Even with sweaty fingers, the dial works flawlessly. I’m not a fan of complicated menus or endless customization options. I just want to start my run, track my stats, and get back home. The Pace 3 delivers on this perfectly.
Beyond running, the Pace 3 offers a range of other activity profiles, including swimming, cycling, and strength training. I’ve tried the cycling profile a few times, and it worked well, although I don’t cycle nearly as much as I run. The watch also provides sleep tracking, which is a nice bonus, although I haven’t found it to be particularly insightful. I don’t think the sleep tracking is as accurate as some higher-end devices, but it gives me a general idea of my sleep patterns.
The Coros app is well-designed and provides detailed data analysis of your workouts. You can track your progress, analyze your pace, heart rate zones, and elevation gain. The app also syncs with popular third-party platforms like Strava, which is essential for me. I like to share my runs with friends and see how I stack up against others.
There are a few minor downsides, of course. The screen, while bright and clear, isn’t as vibrant as some of the AMOLED displays you find on more expensive smartwatches. It’s perfectly readable in direct sunlight, but it lacks that “pop” that some people might want. The watch also doesn’t have music storage, which I personally don’t miss, as I always run with my phone, but it’s something to consider if you prefer to run without it.
Price and Where to Buy:
The Coros Pace 3 is typically priced around $229.00. You can find it on the Coros website, Amazon, and at various specialty running stores. Shopping considerations include:
- Price Comparison: Check prices across different retailers to find the best deal. Amazon often has competitive prices, but supporting a local running store is always a good idea.
- Warranty: Ensure the retailer offers a warranty and has a reasonable return policy in case of any issues.
- Reviews: Read reviews from other users to get a better sense of their experiences.
- Features: Consider whether the features offered meet your specific needs. If you’re a triathlete, you might want to consider a more advanced watch. If you’re primarily a runner, the Pace 3 is an excellent choice.
FAQ:
Q: Is the Coros Pace 3 waterproof?
A: Yes, the Coros Pace 3 is waterproof up to 50 meters (5 ATM). You can wear it while swimming.
Q: Does the Coros Pace 3 have heart rate monitoring?
A: Yes, the watch has a built-in optical heart rate sensor.
Q: Can I receive notifications on the Coros Pace 3?
A: Yes, you can receive notifications for calls, texts, and app alerts.
Q: Does the Coros Pace 3 support music playback?
A: No, the watch does not have onboard music storage. You’ll need to bring your phone if you want to listen to music during your workouts.
Q: What’s the battery life like?
A: The battery life is excellent. You can expect around 24 days in smartwatch mode and up to 24 hours with continuous GPS tracking.
Q: Is the Coros Pace 3 good for beginners?
A: Absolutely. The watch is easy to use and provides all the essential features for tracking your runs.
Q: What are the main competitors of the Coros Pace 3?
A: The main competitors are watches like the Garmin Forerunner 55 and the Polar Ignite 3.
Q: Can I customize the watch faces?
A: Yes, you can customize the watch faces through the Coros app.
Q: Does the watch track sleep?
A: Yes, the Coros Pace 3 tracks sleep duration and quality.
Q: Is the Coros Pace 3 worth the price?
A: In my opinion, yes. The Pace 3 offers excellent value for money, providing accurate GPS tracking, long battery life, and a user-friendly interface at a competitive price. It’s a fantastic option for runners of all levels. I would absolutely recommend this watch to a friend.