Coros Pace 3 vs Garmin 255 – Which Should You Buy?

Tech
By Maya Collins • May 4, 2026
Disclosure: As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases. This post may contain affiliate links, which means I may receive a small commission at no extra cost to you.

Garmin Forerunner 255 and COROS PACE 3 are two top fitness smartwatches for advanced tracking, durability, and long-lasting performance. The Garmin Forerunner 255 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 255 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 255

Display:

  • Garmin Forerunner 255 includes a 1.3-inch MIP display that enhances readability with higher contrast and deeper colors.
  • COROS PACE 3 uses a 1.2-inch memory LCD with lower resolution and monochrome visuals.
Winner:

Garmin Forerunner 255

Internal Storage:

  • Garmin Forerunner 255 includes 8GB of internal storage that allows to store more music for phone-free workouts.
  • COROS PACE 3 does not include internal storage.
Winner:

Garmin Forerunner 255

Display Resolution:

  • Garmin Forerunner 255 has a 260 x 260 resolution that delivers sharper text and graphics.
  • COROS PACE 3 comes with a 240 x 240 pixel resolution.
Winner:

Garmin Forerunner 255

Navigation:

  • Garmin Forerunner 255 supports breadcrumb navigation and back-to-start guidance for outdoor routes.
  • COROS PACE 3 includes breadcrumb navigation but does not include back-to-start.
Winner:

Garmin Forerunner 255

Battery Life:

  • Garmin Forerunner 255 features a battery that lasts up to 14 days in smartwatch mode and up to 30 hours in GPS mode for extended use.
  • COROS PACE 3 lasts up to 17 days in smartwatch mode and 38 hours in GPS mode.
Winner:

COROS PACE 3 (See Also: Apple Iphone 14 Vs Iphone 17 )

Fitness Features:

  • Garmin Forerunner 255 includes HRV status, VO2 Max, race predictor, and training readiness to support advanced athletes.
  • COROS PACE 3 includes heart rate, recovery time, and training load but lacks deeper metrics.
Winner:

Garmin Forerunner 255

Sleep Tracking:

  • Garmin Forerunner 255 includes advanced sleep tracking with HRV insights to better understand recovery.
  • COROS PACE 3 includes basic sleep stages and SpO2 tracking.
Winner:

Garmin Forerunner 255

Smart Features:

  • Garmin Forerunner 255 supports Garmin Pay, safety alerts, and smart notifications for daily convenience.
  • COROS PACE 3 includes smart notifications but lacks payment and safety features.
Winner:

Garmin Forerunner 255

Operating System:

  • Garmin Forerunner 255 features Garmin OS that supports third-party apps, advanced widget customization, and system-wide performance tools.
  • COROS PACE 3 uses a lightweight OS with fewer customization options.
Winner:

Garmin Forerunner 255

Check Forerunner 255 Best Price
Check COROS PACE 3 Best Price

Specs at a Glance

FeatureGarmin Forerunner 255COROS 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 StorageYes (on 255 Music version)No
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 255 if you:

  • Want deeper training insights including VO2 Max, HRV, and training readiness.
  • Prefer built-in music storage for phone-free workouts.
  • Need Garmin Pay and smart features for everyday use.
  • Value advanced navigation and safety features.
  • Want strong multisport tracking with robust durability.

Check Garmin Forerunner 255 Best Price (See Also: Iphone 16 Pro Vs Iphone 17 Pro )

Buy the COROS PACE 3 if you:

  • Prefer a lightweight design for all-day comfort.
  • Want touchscreen controls and a compact build.
  • Need long battery life for extended outdoor sessions.
  • Are looking for accurate GPS at a lower price.
  • Don’t need music playback or contactless payments.

Check COROS PACE 3 Best Price

Winner by Category

CategoryWinner
ProcessorGarmin Forerunner 255
DisplayGarmin Forerunner 255
Battery LifeCOROS PACE 3
Music StorageGarmin Forerunner 255
Training & RecoveryGarmin Forerunner 255
Sleep & SpO2Garmin Forerunner 255
NavigationGarmin Forerunner 255
ConnectivityGarmin Forerunner 255
Smart FeaturesGarmin Forerunner 255

What They Have in Common

  • Multi-Sport Tracking: Both watches support running, cycling, swimming, and strength workouts, making them versatile choices for athletes who train across multiple disciplines.
  • GPS Accuracy: Both devices use multi-band GPS, providing precise location tracking that helps improve pace and distance accuracy during outdoor activities.
  • Heart Rate Monitoring: Both watches feature optical heart rate sensors that deliver continuous tracking, useful for monitoring effort levels and recovery.
  • Training Metrics: Both models provide advanced training metrics like VO₂ max, training load, and recovery time to help athletes plan and optimize their workouts.
  • Smartwatch Features: Both include basic smartwatch functions such as smartphone notifications, music controls, and customizable watch faces, adding convenience beyond fitness tracking.

FAQ (Quick Answers)

Does the Garmin Forerunner 255 support music playback?
Yes, the Garmin Forerunner 255 Music version includes onboard music storage and streaming support, allowing phone-free listening during workouts.

Can the COROS PACE 3 track sleep?
Yes, the COROS PACE 3 includes sleep tracking that monitors light, deep, and REM stages, along with optional SpO2 measurement.

Does either watch have a touchscreen?
The COROS PACE 3 includes a touchscreen for easy navigation, while the Garmin Forerunner 255 uses physical buttons only.

Which watch has better battery life in GPS mode?
The COROS PACE 3 offers up to 38 hours in GPS mode, which is longer than the Garmin Forerunner 255’s 30 hours.

Do these watches support dual-frequency GPS?
Yes, both the Garmin Forerunner 255 and COROS PACE 3 support dual-frequency GPS for more accurate location tracking in challenging environments.

Can I make contactless payments with these watches?
Only the Garmin Forerunner 255 supports contactless payments via Garmin Pay. The COROS PACE 3 does not include NFC functionality. (See Also: Iphone 17 Vs Iphone 17 Pro )

Are both watches compatible with heart rate monitors and other accessories?
Yes, both watches support Bluetooth and ANT+, allowing you to pair external heart rate straps and accessories.

Is music control available on the COROS PACE 3?
The COROS PACE 3 does not support music playback or control features.

Which watch is better for advanced training metrics?
The Garmin Forerunner 255 is better for advanced metrics, offering HRV status, training readiness, race predictor, and VO2 Max.

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Do these watches support Wi-Fi syncing?
Yes, both the Garmin Forerunner 255 and COROS PACE 3 include Wi-Fi for wireless syncing and updates.

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