Side-by-side comparison based on expert reviews and community consensus.
Coros Pace 3
Best Battery LifeGarmin Forerunner 265
Best Overall for RunnersPrice
$229-$259
$349-$399
Summary
Wirecutter's top GPS running watch pick for years running, praised for class-leading battery life, lightning-fast GPS lock, and accurate metric tracking at a lower price than Garmin flagships.
The go-to running watch recommended across every runner subreddit. Combines serious GPS accuracy, deep training metrics, and multi-day battery in a watch that doesn't sacrifice smartwatch usability.
Pros
- Industry-leading battery life among GPS running watches
- Fastest GPS signal acquisition in its class per Wirecutter testing
- Full multisport watch with dedicated track run mode
- Downloadable training plans for 5K through marathon
- Solid GPS accuracy with fast signal acquisition
- Multi-day battery life far exceeds Apple Watch
- Deep running metrics including training load and recovery
- Good balance of smartwatch features and running-specific tools
Cons
- Smaller app/smartwatch ecosystem than Garmin or Apple
- No daily suggested workout feature like Garmin
- Less name recognition means fewer community resources
- More expensive than entry-level Garmin options
- Garmin app ecosystem less polished than Apple/Google
- Bulkier design than fashion-forward smartwatches
Our take
Coros keeps winning because it does the running fundamentals better than anyone — GPS locks faster, battery lasts longer, and the price is right. Runners who prioritize performance over ecosystem should start here.
If you're serious about running, this is the watch to get. Reddit runners who've switched from Apple Watch consistently say the metrics and battery life are on another level.
Buy
