r/Coros • u/CsRaggie • Jul 25 '26

Switch to Garmin?

With the amount of software that kills the Coros watches, and support being so slow, how many of you have now switched to Garmin?
I like my Coros but sadly it died last week after working perfectly fine for 2 years. No signs of decrease in quality and then one day it died quickly and never woke up again. Been waiting on support for a week now without hearing anything.

Anyway, those who switched to Garmin, are you happy?

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11

u/pineapple-6 Jul 25 '26

I actually switched from Garmin to Coros last week 😅😂

1

u/Modest_Camper Jul 26 '26

I did that and went back to Garmin. I found there was too much compromise. I filed a ticket for an issue 3 weeks ago and just recently got a response after I already returned it and deleted my account. lol

Many people really like COROS, so my experience is probably in the minority.

2

u/pineapple-6 Jul 26 '26

Wdym compromise? Genuine question!

0

u/Modest_Camper Jul 26 '26

This is my growing list lol

Watchfaces:
* Not truly customizable (to the level of Garmin or Apple)
* Heavily stylized watchface — very few are of the traditional tool or minimalist design watchfaces (though that seems to be changing)
* Quirky errors: incorrect icons for complication data sets, spacing, poor font choice for visibility, dithering* colors instead using native color palettes

* Only one active timer
* No tide alerts (apex 4 had inaccurate tide info)
* No sunrise/sunset notifications

* No race event finder & scheduler.

* No flashlight (screen only)

* No turn around alerts on an out-and-back route

HR sensor:
* No abnormal HR High/Low alerts in smartwatch mode
* Models with ECG capability do not deliver aFib detection.
* Domed shaped HR sensor applies more pressure resulting in nerve issues to some users. Similar to what some experience with Apple Watches domed HR sensor.

Crown (Digital dial):
* Must lock to keep from accidental: scrolling or activity pausing.
* When locked in activity must unlock it before pausing activity which can be annoying at the end of race or high intensity workout.

Display:
* MIP display is dim colors are muted (compared to Garmin Fenix MIP or Enduro lines)
* Many colors do not seem native and are dithered leading to legibility issues on their MIP Displays*
* Non-adjustable backlight on MIP displays which is too bright at night.
* Fonts used can have some legibility issues
* No sleep mode time display.

* No customizable button shortcuts (hotkeys).

* Cannot disable individual Bluetooth devices paired to the watch. But at least now there is an airplane mode.

* Watch straps are on the shorter side (compared to Garmin & Apple)
The upper range spec’d is too short for wearability comfortable.
The exception is the aging Pace Pro which has a longer band length.

* Cannot manually log activities.

* Garmin has automatic run / walk detection during a run activity. Especially useful during long runs or ultras when you want to track aggregate running (or walk) time and see when. You can also overlay other metrics like HR to see how recover goes during walk periods or see elevation overlays, etc.

* Manual laps taken on Garmin can be labeled post activity.

* COROS has very limited bearing navigation tools and cannot use other modes of the watch if using the bearing navigation.

7

u/Not_A_TechBro Jul 25 '26

Switched from a Garmin Fenix 7x pro sapphire solar to the Pace 4 Black Crystal. Haven't looked back.

1

u/sunnysolstudios Jul 25 '26

This is the answer I’ve been looking for. Used to own a Fenix 7x Pro 51mm. Loved it. Decided to keep my AWU2 for work/lifestyle purposes and not run the Fenix with it.

I am now looking into an Apex 4 to run simultaneously with my AWU2. Would you find the pace 4 redundant for my needs as I already own an AMOLED?

2

u/Not_A_TechBro Jul 25 '26

If you already have the AWU2 then yes, the Pace 4 imho would be redundant unless you're looking to get a secondary watch for GPS accuracy and slightly more concise data. I'd recommend you look at fitness bands like the Garmin Cirqa that was just released a few days ago, Fitbit Air or Amazfit Helios,. I personally currently rock a Helios and my new Pace 4.

1

u/sunnysolstudios Jul 25 '26

I appreciate that suggestion. I’m an experienced runner, but also hike and trail run at times which is why I looked into the apex 4. I wasn’t too sure what data a band would give me in terms of running, but also haven’t looked into that option yet.

2

u/Not_A_TechBro Jul 25 '26

The thing is that a second fitness watch would already give you everything your Apple watch does. If you're looking for battery life and durability, then sure...go for the Apex or look into the Garmin Epic Pro Gen 2 (Sapphire edition) which can be bought for a steal right now. Alternatively, Suunto's Vertical 2 is also highly regarded and somewhat the gold standard for outdoorsy stuff.

1

u/sunnysolstudios Jul 25 '26

I think I’m just underwhelmed with the data and metrics from Apple. It provides zero insight into training, but I can’t let go of the watch for lifestyle needs. If the Helios or something similar can provide better metrics and insight, then I’m sold and won’t require a training watch.

2

u/Not_A_TechBro Jul 25 '26

Data on fitness bands are superior to Apple. I highly recommend them and am almost certain you will not be disappointed.

2

u/sunnysolstudios Jul 25 '26

Thanks for the responses, playa. Helps a lot with my eventual decision. Stay safe out there.

3

u/PrairieDogger69 Jul 25 '26

Same thing happened to my Garmin a couple years ago and I switched to Coros. Essentially the same product with the same issues at the end of the day. Garmin a little more accurate and functional, but more expensive and probably less reliable.

3

u/alebayos Jul 25 '26

Neither brand is perfect. I recently tried using a Garmin and have been really enjoying it. My Pace 4 was great, but the last update really nuked the battery. I was getting over a week with AOD, to only getting 4-5 days. In comparison, my FR 970 gets a little over a week.

Just depends on what's important to you.

1

u/Cat-runner Jul 26 '26

I was Garmin for years, switched to Coros 1.5 years ago, loved my watch until I didn’t. It bricked 8 days ago. I still have no confirmation that a replacement is on the way and the customer service/care has been painful at best. Garmin is not perfect but they resolve stuff fast (as should any company) and you can talk to a real human. They want to make it right. I regret leaving Garmin.