You dont have to run to use the coros system. The pace pro is functional really no different from the other models in the brand for the most part (pace pro has the amoled screen and less rugged than the more expensive models).
It will absolutely be useful to show trends and measurements, however to monitor hr in real time during non activities would require changing the default setting and use more battery and you might not be super impressed with the sleep phases (no consume brands are 100 on that though) so its ok.
Coros targets runners b/c i think thats the biggest market for sport watches and everything else is likely a big drop in share, as well as accuracy and modeling.
Congrats dude! I have owned both the 970 and Pace Pro, each has their pros and cons. The 970 definitely feels a bit more premium in the hand and on the wrist. The flashlight feature was helpful in some cases too.
I ended up sticking with the Pace Pro, though. The better build quality and flashlight wasn't worth the extra $400 to me. That's not to say that the Pace Pro feels cheap either. Garmin had more smartwatch features, but I didn't use them all that much. The extra metrics I didn't find useful.
The Pace Pro lacks in smartwatch features, but if that doesn't matter to you, it's a great running watch. Less metrics, but it has all necessary ones (at least for me). Also, the Pace Pro is lighter than the 970, if that matters to you when you run. I also much preferred the Coros app compared to Garmin Connect.
I also used some of the accessories for each watch. The Coros heart rate monitor armband was much more comfortable to me than the Garmin HRM chest strap. It also was just about as accurate as the chest strap for me.
Both are great running watches, can't go wrong with either. Just depends on what features you value. Good luck and enjoy your new watch!
The Apex 4 does running and more. I went with a Pace Pro bc I run as well, but wanted maps and a bit more money in my pocket to buy the pod for treadmill runs. The Apex 4 is a bit overkill for just running imho, but if the design aesthetic or other non-running features are a major factor, go for it.
Garmin seems to stop supporting their watches with new features within around 18 months of release. Also with the new Garmin connect subscription service, who knows how many things they will decide to lock behind a paywall in the future. The Coros Pace Pro processor is also better than the one in the FR--lots of people complain about the Garmin lagginess when moving around the maps. And for me personally, I'm trying not to support any US based companies due to the current administration.
12panel
