Quick verdict
The Coros Pace 3 is the running watch that makes Garmin look expensive: 30 grams on the wrist, dual-frequency GPS, 38 hours of GPS battery, and real training plans — at a price that undercuts every comparable Garmin. It is the watch for runners who care about accurate tracks and long battery, not brand logos. For pure running value, nothing touches it.
Key features
At 30 grams it is one of the lightest GPS watches ever made — you genuinely forget it is there on long runs. Dual-frequency GPS (L1+L5) delivers track accuracy that rivals watches costing three times more. The 38-hour GPS battery covers ultramarathons, and 24 days of regular use means charging roughly monthly.
Coros training plans are the surprise: structured running, cycling, and strength plans built by coaches, synced to the watch, with workout execution on the wrist. The Coros app is clean and fast, and the EvoLab metrics (running fitness, fatigue, recovery) give data-driven runners the numbers they crave. Music control, breadcrumb navigation, and 5ATM water resistance round out a deep package.
The weight is the story nobody else tells properly. Thirty grams changes the running experience — no bounce, no wrist fatigue on 3-hour long runs, no tan-line weirdness. Heavier watches disappear too, eventually, but the Pace 3 starts disappeared. For runners logging serious mileage, grams matter, and Coros understood that before anyone else at this price.
Who it’s for
Runners — from 5K beginners to marathoners and ultra runners — who want accurate GPS and long battery without Garmin prices. It suits data-driven trainers who will use the training plans and EvoLab metrics, and minimalists who want the lightest watch possible. Triathletes on a budget get multisport modes too. If running is your sport, this is the value pick.
What to watch out for
The Pace 3 is a running watch first — smart features are minimal: no app store, no payments, no voice assistant. The display is memory-in-pixel, not AMOLED: always readable but less vibrant. Touchscreen is absent by design (buttons only), which purists love and casual users may miss. Third-party integrations are thinner than Garmin Connect. If you want a smartwatch that runs, look elsewhere.
The display trade-off is worth understanding. Memory-in-pixel screens are always-on, readable in direct sun, and sip battery — perfect for running. But next to an AMOLED watch, they look dated: no rich colors, no flashy watch faces. Coros chose function over flash, and for runners that is the right call. Just do not buy it expecting Apple Watch visuals.
Pros and cons
Pros:
- Just 30g — featherlight
- Dual-frequency GPS accuracy
- 38-hour GPS battery
- Real training plans included
- Unbeatable running value
Cons:
- Minimal smartwatch features
- No AMOLED — MIP display
- Thinner third-party integrations than Garmin
FAQs
How light is the Coros Pace 3?
Just 30 grams — among the lightest GPS watches ever made.
Does it have dual-frequency GPS?
Yes — L1+L5 dual-frequency GPS for accurate tracks in difficult conditions.
How long does the battery last?
38 hours of GPS use, or 24 days of regular use.
Does it have training plans?
Yes — structured running, cycling, and strength plans built by coaches, free in the Coros app.
Can I swim with it?
Yes — 5ATM water resistance covers pool swimming.
Price and availability
The Coros Pace 3 (Black Silicone) is available on Amazon. Check price on Amazon
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