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Head-to-head · Best Gps Running Watches

Apple Watch Ultra 3 vs Coros Pace 4

Which is the better buy? Side-by-side on rating, price, strengths, and watch-outs — with the published ratings we averaged to get there.

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The short answer

Apple Watch Ultra 3 comes out ahead by a clear margin (4.4 vs 4.1). Apple Watch Ultra 3 is best for: Outdoor enthusiasts who prioritize safety and satellite connectivity over specialized sports analytics. Read the strengths below before deciding.

Apple Watch Ultra 3
Higher ratedRanked #4 in Best Gps Running Watches
Apple Watch Ultra 3
3 sources$649as of Oct 16

The Apple Watch Ultra 3 introduces two-way satellite communications, a first for the line that Dcrainmaker found works seamlessly in remote conditions to enable emergency SOS and text messaging. The LTPO3 OLED display delivers up to 3000 nits of brightness and a faster 1Hz always-on refresh rate, with OutdoorGearLab measuring peak luminance at the stated maximum. Battery life routinely exceeds Apple’s 42-hour claim, reaching 55-62 hours in daily use according to Birchtree.me, while charging to 80% takes approximately 45 minutes. However, the titanium case remains bulky at 12mm thick and 61.8g, making it cumbersome for sleep tracking or formal wear as noted by Ablogtowatch. Native workout tracking lacks map screens during activities, forcing users to rely on third-party apps like WorkOutDoors for route navigation, a limitation highlighted by Trail & Kale. This device fits outdoor enthusiasts who prioritize safety and battery endurance over specialized sports analytics, while serious athletes seeking detailed training metrics should look elsewhere.

Strengths
  • — Satellite connectivity enables SOS emergency calls and two-way text messaging when off-grid.
  • — LTPO3 display offers wider viewing angles, up to 3000 nits brightness, and a 1-second always-on refresh rate for ticking seconds.
  • — Charging speed improved from 60 minutes to roughly 45 minutes for an 80% charge.
Watch-outs
  • — The titanium case measures 12mm thick and weighs 61.8g, making it bulky compared to standard smartwatches.
  • — Native workout tracking lacks map screens during activities, requiring third-party apps like WorkOutDoors for route navigation.
$649 · Check Price on AmazonFull review →
Coros Pace 4
Ranked #5 in Best Gps Running Watches
Coros Pace 4
2 sources$249as of Oct 11

The Coros Pace 4 weighs just 32 grams with a nylon band, offering an ultralight profile that Trailrunmag describes as feeling more like a festival wristband than a traditional GPS watch. It features a bright 1.2-inch AMOLED display and delivers up to 41 hours of battery life in High GPS mode, though OutdoorGearLab measured 40 hours during continuous tracking. The device includes a built-in microphone for voice notes but lacks detailed topographic maps, relying instead on breadcrumb navigation that requires pre-loaded routes. It also misses NFC contactless payments and native Spotify integration, while the touchscreen is prone to accidental triggers when wearing gloves or thick jackets. This watch fits runners prioritizing comfort and endurance over smart features, whereas those needing full mapping or payment capabilities should look elsewhere.

Strengths
  • — Features a bright 1.2-inch AMOLED touchscreen display that is highly legible in direct sunlight and rich visually.
  • — Delivers exceptional GPS battery life of up to 41 hours in High GPS mode, suitable for ultra-distance efforts.
  • — Includes a built-in microphone enabling voice notes, training log dictation, and on-watch voice pins.
Watch-outs
  • — Lacks detailed topographic maps, relying instead on breadcrumb navigation that requires pre-loaded routes.
  • — Missing NFC contactless payment capabilities and native Spotify music streaming integration.
  • — Touchscreen is prone to accidental triggers when wearing gloves or thick jackets during activities.
$249 · Buy at coros.comFull review →

How they stack up

Apple Watch Ultra 3

The Apple Watch Ultra 3 lists 14 hours of GPS battery life, under the 20 hours of the Garmin Forerunner 55, the 41 hours of the Coros Pace 4 and the 120 hours of the Garmin Enduro 3. Its 49mm titanium case weighs 61.8g, close to the 63 g Garmin Enduro 3 and nearly double the 32g Coros Pace 4.

Coros Pace 4

Weighing just 32g, the Coros Pace 4 is significantly lighter than the bulky Apple Watch Ultra 3 (61.8g) and Garmin Enduro 3 (63g), making it ideal for comfort-focused runners.

Specs side-by-side

SpecApple Watch Ultra 3Coros Pace 4
Display SizeLTPO3 OLED (1.92in)1.2 inch AMOLED
Display TypeAlways-on LTPO3 OLEDAMOLED
GPS Battery Life14 hours41 hours
Water ResistanceWR100 / EN133195 ATM
Case Size49mm43.4 x 43.4 x 11.8mm
Case MaterialtitaniumPlastic
Weight61.8g32g
Battery LifeUp to 42 hours of normal use19 days
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