You’re training for your next marathon, and the choice of a reliable running watch is crucial. You need something that tracks every mile, every heartbeat, and doesn’t weigh you down. Let’s break down two of the top contenders: the Coros Pace 2 and the Garmin 165.
| Feature | Coros Pace 2 | Garmin 165 |
|---|---|---|
| Weight | 29g | 42g |
| Battery Life (GPS) | 30 hours | 20 hours |
| Water Resistance | 50 meters ✓ | 50 meters ✓ |
| Music Storage | ✗ | ✓ |
| Price | $199 | $299 |
✅ coros pace 2 Pros
- Ultra-lightweight at 29g, barely noticeable on long runs.
- Impressive 30-hour battery life with GPS.
- Accurate and reliable GPS tracking.
❌ coros pace 2 Cons
- No music storage, so you still need your phone for tunes.
- Limited smartwatch features compared to others.
- Basic display can be hard to read in direct sunlight.
✅ garmin 165 Pros
- Includes music storage, perfect for phone-free runs.
- Robust health metrics and detailed analytics.
- Solid build quality, feels durable on the wrist.
❌ garmin 165 Cons
- Heavier at 42g, can be noticeable during long activities.
- Shorter 20-hour battery life for GPS tracking.
Performance and Tracking Accuracy
The Coros Pace 2 shines with its pinpoint GPS accuracy and extended battery life, which is ideal for ultramarathoners. It’s lightweight and doesn’t feel like an anchor on your wrist after several hours. Garmin 165, while still robust in tracking, offers more comprehensive health metrics. If you’re obsessed with data, especially heart rate variability and stress tracking, Garmin gives you the extra edge. However, the extra weight might be a deal-breaker for some who prioritize the feather-light feel of the Coros.
Build Quality and Design
Garmin’s 165 is built like a tank, which is both a blessing and a curse. It feels indestructible, but its bulk can become cumbersome. On the flip side, Coros Pace 2’s minimalist design is refreshing, especially if you hate feeling like you’re wearing a computer on your wrist. The downside? Its light build can feel too plasticky for some. If you want something that can take a beating, Garmin’s your pick. But if you prefer a barely-there experience, Coros has got you covered.
Value for Money
Coros Pace 2 is a budget-friendly marvel, perfect for those who want simplicity with performance. At $199, it offers excellent value with its long battery life and accurate tracking. Garmin 165, priced at $299, justifies the cost with its feature-rich offerings, including music storage and advanced analytics. If you’re the type who loves diving deep into data and multitasking with music, the extra $100 could be well spent.
A lot of reviews gloss over the fact that the Coros Pace 2’s simplicity means fewer updates and new features over time. Garmin’s ecosystem, although pricier, often receives improvements and new apps. Also, Coros still lacks some third-party app integrations that its competitors offer.
Our Final Verdict: Which One Should You Buy?
If you’re a minimalist runner who values light weight and long battery life, the Coros Pace 2 is your go-to. It’s perfect for those training for marathons or ultramarathons. However, if you want a more comprehensive fitness tool with music storage and robust analytics, and you don’t mind spending a bit more, the Garmin 165 is the better choice for tech enthusiasts and data-driven athletes.
Does the Coros Pace 2 fit small wrists comfortably?
Yes, the Coros Pace 2 is designed to fit a wide range of wrist sizes comfortably, thanks to its lightweight and adjustable strap.
Can Garmin 165 sync with third-party fitness apps?
Absolutely, Garmin 165 has excellent compatibility with most third-party fitness apps, making it easy to integrate into your current fitness regime.
How long can I expect these watches to last?
Both watches are built to last several years with proper care. Garmin tends to offer more frequent software updates, potentially extending its useful life.
