from is the ideal for the runner who wants a running watch that can track GPS and heart rate precisely but doesn't need lots of smartwatch features, and wants to keep the price down. Pace 3 features top-notch GPS with the precise "Dual-Frequency" technology, a wrist heart rate monitor that also measures SpO2, and a barometric altimeter, providing the best data.
Coros Pace 3 – User Experience
is quite easy to use, like its predecessor. The watch has only two buttons, one of which is a so-called "Digital Crown." You can rotate this button to navigate up/down in the menu items, and it's also used to unlock the watch if it's locked (it can also be set to require holding the button instead of rotating it).
Using the two buttons is fairly simple, and the watch doesn't have a complicated menu structure. I think it works well with just two buttons. The rotating button is also used to switch between different data fields during an activity. I know this divides opinions, but I haven't had issues needing to scroll the button to view other data while running, even with gloves on in winter.
Additionally, the watch is equipped with a touchscreen. This isn't immediately apparent when using the watch, as it's set by default to only be active when using the watch's navigation function. However, you can adjust the watch to enable touch functionality for general use or activities, allowing you to switch between data fields.
Coros Pace 3 – For Running
There's no doubt that Coros Pace 3 is a dedicated . It's very light on the wrist (weighing only 39g or 30g depending on whether it's a silicone or nylon strap) and has all the features I need as a runner - and not many more than that. I'm pleased with the option to use the "Dual Frequency" GPS signal, as I find it provides more accurate data, especially when running a large half marathon in a city or training in the forest, where regular GPS signals tend to struggle. During my testing (running several races and many forest training sessions), I've been very satisfied with my GPS data when "Dual Frequency" is enabled.
Additionally, the watch features an upgraded optical heart rate monitor that can also measure SpO2, i.e., blood oxygen saturation. I was already impressed with the optical heart rate monitor on Pace 2, and Pace 3's is certainly not worse. Optical heart rate monitors have the advantage of not requiring extra equipment, not causing irritation, and being generally easy and convenient. The downsides are that they can "lose signal" if, for example, you're cold and your blood vessels constrict, and they're not as quick to detect changes in heart rate, such as during interval running. If you're not fond of a classic chest strap, you can consider the , which sits higher on the arm. It provides excellent data - also for interval running.
If you're venturing into adventures, the watch is equipped with a breadcrumb map function, allowing you to map your route via the app and transfer it to the watch. On the watch, the route is displayed on a black background, and after a software update, you can enable an alarm to beep when you're close to a turn. The breadcrumb function isn't as elegant as a full topographic map on the watch, but it ensures you run the right way when in unfamiliar terrain.
Moreover, the watch has an easy and clear menu that guides you regarding training load, recovery time, training variation, etc. I quickly get an overview of the information I need, and it's nice that it's easily accessible and simple to interpret. The watch also provides estimates on how fast you can run various distances based on your training. You can also perform fitness tests with the watch for a more precise overview.
Pace 3 includes trail, indoor, and track running functions to track your runs.
If you do more than just running, Pace 3 also has cycling, swimming, hiking, and cardio functions to monitor your training.
I think it's a watch that is very well suited for runners, and if you're looking for a watch that's simple to use and can track everything a runner needs, then Coros Pace 3 is a great choice!
