Coros Pace 3 vs Garmin 245 – Which Should You Buy?

Tech
By Maya Collins • May 4, 2026
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Garmin Forerunner 245 and COROS PACE 3 are two top fitness smartwatches for advanced tracking, durability, and long-lasting performance. The Garmin Forerunner 245 is the newer and more advanced model with a MIP display, broader health tracking, and upgraded fitness features. The COROS PACE 3 is a lightweight and budget-friendly choice with a long-lasting battery and accurate GPS. This comparison will help you decide which one fits your lifestyle best.

Feature-by-Feature Breakdown

Processor:

  • Garmin Forerunner 245 features a high-performance processor that ensures smooth performance during multitasking and complex tracking.
  • COROS PACE 3 uses a basic chip that handles core functions.
Winner:

Garmin Forerunner 245

Display:

  • Garmin Forerunner 245 features a 1.2-inch transflective MIP display that enhances visibility in sunlight.
  • COROS PACE 3 uses a 1.2-inch memory LCD display.
Winner:

Garmin Forerunner 245

Internal Storage:

  • Garmin Forerunner 245 includes 4GB of internal storage that allows to store more music for phone-free workouts.
  • COROS PACE 3 does not include internal storage.
Winner:

Garmin Forerunner 245

Durability:

  • Garmin Forerunner 245 has a fiber-reinforced polymer body with Corning Gorilla Glass 3 to withstand daily wear.
  • COROS PACE 3 has a plastic body with a mineral glass lens for basic scratch resistance.
Winner:

Garmin Forerunner 245

Connectivity:

  • Garmin Forerunner 245 supports Bluetooth, Wi-Fi and ANT+ to connect external sensors and sync data.
  • COROS PACE 3 supports Bluetooth and ANT+ but lacks Wi-Fi syncing.
Winner:

Garmin Forerunner 245 (See Also: Apple Iphone 14 Vs Iphone 17 )

Battery Life:

  • Garmin Forerunner 245 has a rechargeable battery that lasts up to 7 days in smartwatch mode and 24 hours in GPS mode.
  • COROS PACE 3 lasts up to 17 days in smartwatch mode and 38 hours in GPS mode.
Winner:

COROS PACE 3

Operating System:

  • Garmin Forerunner 245 features Garmin’s custom OS that enables in-depth workout metrics and safety features.
  • COROS PACE 3 uses a lightweight OS with fewer customization options.
Winner:

Garmin Forerunner 245

Check Forerunner 245 Best Price
Check COROS PACE 3 Best Price

Specs at a Glance

FeatureGarmin Forerunner 245COROS PACE 3
Display Size & Type1.3″ transflective MIP, 260 x 2601.2″ memory LCD, 240 x 240
Battery Life (Smartwatch)Up to 14 daysUp to 17 days
Battery Life (GPS mode)Up to 30 hoursUp to 38 hours
Weight49g30g
Dual-Frequency GPSYesYes
Music StorageYesNo
NavigationYes (Breadcrumb trail, back to start)Yes (Breadcrumb navigation)
Heart Rate SensorGen 4 Elevate sensorOptical HR sensor
Training Load/RecoveryAdvanced with HRV, VO2 Max, training readinessTraining load and recovery metrics
Sleep TrackingAdvanced with HRV statusYes
NFC (Garmin Pay)YesNo

 

Who Should Buy What?

Buy the Garmin Forerunner 245 if you:

  • Want reliable performance and training metrics with Garmin’s trusted software.
  • Need music storage for phone-free workouts.
  • Prefer having Pulse OX tracking and advanced physiological metrics.
  • Value incident detection and smart safety features.
  • Appreciate a well-built watch with Garmin’s fitness ecosystem.

Check Garmin Forerunner 245 Best Price

Buy the COROS PACE 3 if you:

  • Want a lightweight and modern GPS watch with long battery life.
  • Prefer dual-frequency GPS for better accuracy in all environments.
  • Are looking for a more affordable option with rich sport features.
  • Need advanced navigation features like turn-by-turn routes.
  • Don’t mind skipping music or Pulse OX for better value overall.

Check COROS PACE 3 Best Price

Winner by Category

CategoryWinner
ProcessorGarmin Forerunner 245
DisplayGarmin Forerunner 245
Battery LifeCOROS PACE 3
Music SupportGarmin Forerunner 245
Heart Rate & PulseGarmin Forerunner 245
Build QualityGarmin Forerunner 245
Smart FeaturesGarmin Forerunner 245

What They Have in Common

  • GPS Tracking: Both watches include built-in GPS tracking, allowing users to accurately record runs, walks, and rides without carrying a phone.
  • Heart Rate Monitoring: Both feature optical heart rate sensors, giving users real-time heart rate data to guide training intensity and monitor health.
  • Training & Performance Metrics: Both provide VO₂ max, pace, and recovery insights, helping athletes measure fitness progress and plan smarter workouts.
  • Water Resistance: Both models are water-resistant, making them suitable for running in the rain or swimming without worrying about damage.
  • Smartphone Notifications: Both support call, text, and app notifications, letting users stay connected without needing to check their phone during workouts.

FAQ (Quick Answers)

Does the Garmin Forerunner 245 have built-in music storage?
Yes, the Garmin Forerunner 245 Music edition allows you to store and play music directly from the watch without needing a phone. (See Also: Iphone 16 Pro Vs Iphone 17 Pro )

Can the COROS PACE 3 track elevation during outdoor workouts?
Yes, the COROS PACE 3 includes a barometric altimeter that accurately tracks elevation changes during activities like hiking and trail running.

Is the Garmin Forerunner 245 suitable for swimming?
Yes, the Forerunner 245 is water-rated to 5 ATM and includes pool swim tracking, but it does not support open water swimming.

Does the COROS PACE 3 support multisport or triathlon mode?
Yes, the COROS PACE 3 includes a dedicated triathlon mode that seamlessly transitions between swim, bike, and run activities.

Can either watch measure blood oxygen levels?
The Garmin Forerunner 245 includes a Pulse OX sensor for spot-checking blood oxygen saturation, while the COROS PACE 3 does not support this feature.

Do both watches support third-party heart rate monitors?
Yes, both the Garmin Forerunner 245 and COROS PACE 3 support external heart rate sensors via Bluetooth or ANT+ connectivity. (See Also: Iphone 17 Vs Iphone 17 Pro )

Which watch has better GPS accuracy for complex environments?
The COROS PACE 3 provides better GPS accuracy thanks to its dual-frequency GNSS, which is more reliable in cities or mountainous terrain.

Is there Wi-Fi syncing available on either watch?
The Garmin Forerunner 245 Music version includes Wi-Fi syncing, while the COROS PACE 3 does not support Wi-Fi at all.

How long does the battery last on each watch during GPS usage?
The Garmin Forerunner 245 lasts up to 24 hours in GPS mode, while the COROS PACE 3 lasts up to 38 hours, making it better for long training sessions or races.

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Can I use these watches for strength training or gym workouts?
Yes, both watches include basic strength training modes, but the COROS PACE 3 supports additional gym activities like HIIT and provides more sport profiles overall.

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