Coros updated the Apex series with two new models this month (Nov 2022): the Coros Apex 2 and Coros Apex Pro. There have been several key improvements made to the new models ranging from music support to new GPS capabilities.
However, the company has intentionally underpowered the Apex 2 apparently to justify the existence of the slightly higher-priced Pro version.
Here are five key differences between the Coros Apex 2 and Coros Apex Pro:
Table of Contents
Coros Apex 2 vs 2 Pro: General Comparison
| Coros Apex 2 | Coros Apex 2 Pro | |
|---|---|---|
| Release Date | November 2022 | November 2022 |
| Predecessor | Coros Apex | Coros Apex Pro |
| Company | Coros | Coros |
| Operating System | Not Specified | Not Specified |
| Compatible Smartphones | Android, iOS | Android, iOS |
| Competition | Garmin Forerunner 255, Ticwatch Pro 4G, Garmin Instinct 2 | Garmin Fenix 7, Garmin Instinct 2, Polar Vantage 2, Polar Pacer Pro |
| Sensors | Optical Heart Rate Monitor, Barometric Altimeter, Accelerometer, Gyroscope, 3D Compass, Thermometer, Optical Pulse Oximeter, Electrocardiogram Sensor | Optical Heart Rate Monitor, Barometric Altimeter, Accelerometer, Gyroscope, 3D Compass, Thermometer, Optical Pulse Oximeter, Electrocardiogram Sensor |
Pricing
The Coros Apex 2 will retail for around $400, while the Coros Apex 2 Pro will cost around $500.
The decision to ditch one in the favor of the other will come down to whether you think the extra $100 is worth the upgraded specs and features.
These watches are almost identical except for a few key differences that may or may not matter to you.
Design
Both watches have a new 5-grade-titanium bezel and sapphire glass protection. However, the size of Apex 2 Pro is slightly bigger with 1.3-inch screen size and 260x260px resolution. The base model has a 1.2-inch display with 240x240px resolution.
Of course, these differences are not that significant, but the Pro version might be a bit too big and heavier (10g) for some wrists.
Multi-Band GNSS Support:
Following the footstep of Garmin and Apple, Coros has also added multi-band GNSS support to the new Coros Apex 2 Pro. Also known as Dual-Frequency capability, this feature allows the watch to collect more than one radio signal from a satellite on different frequencies.
Both Garmin (FR 955) and Apple (Watch Ultra) have demonstrated the potential of this technology with more accurate tracking in difficult environments like near tall buildings or under dense tree canopies.
The Coros Apex 2, on the other hand, only supports a single frequency. So, if you live in an area with environmental interference, or often go hiking or running in the woods, theoretically, the Coros Apex 2 Pro will be a better choice.
Keep in mind, that the lack of multi-band support doesn’t mean that the Apex 2 lacks support for multiple satellite systems. It is fully capable to receive signals from GLONASS, GALILEO, and BEIDOU constellations in addition to GPS.
Battery Performance:
A real-time difference in the battery life of these watches remains to be seen in upcoming reviews. However, Coros claims that the Apex 2 will last up to 45 hours in full GPS mode with music while the Pro version can go up to 75 hours.
The performance will take a hit if you turn on the ‘All Systems’ mode where these watches will continuously look for satellite signals from all four constellations. In that case, the Apex 2 will last for around 28 hours while the 2 Pro version can go up to 45 hours.
However, if you turn off all GPS features and use the watch as a regular smartwatch, Apex 2 will last for around 2 weeks on a single charge. The Pro version will take this number to a whole month.
Coros is yet to introduce a fast charging mode for these watches. So, a full charge will still take around 2 hours.
4X Storage Capacity
Coros has added music capability to the new Apex 2 and Apex 2 Pro. However, there is a significant difference in the storage capacity of these watches with 32GB on the Pro version and only 8 GB on the base model.
The bigger capacity adds to the convenience as you won’t have to repeatedly load and offload mp3 files from the watch. Also, you will find most of the maps preloaded on the Apex 2 Pro. While you also add third-party maps to the Coros Apex 2, you will need to do it manually.
Both watches have Wi-Fi and Bluetooth support for syncing music files from your smartphone but support for popular streaming platforms like Spotify, Deezer and Pandora is still missing.
Coros Apex 2 vs 2 Pro: What Should you Choose?
The question here is that you have to spend $100 extra to get the Coros Apex 2 Pro. So, is it worth it?
Complete the checklist below to find out:
- You run or hike in difficult environments like near tall buildings or under dense tree canopies.
- Charging the watch multiple times a week is a deal breaker for you.
- You are not okay with manually adding third-party maps to the watch.
- Music is an integral part of your workout routine, and you hate to carry your phone with you.
- You can live with a bulky and heavy watch on your wrist.
If you answered yes to most of the questions above, the Coros Apex 2 Pro is a better choice for you. However, if you are okay with a little compromise on battery life and storage capacity, you can spend the extra $100 on a new strap or some other accessories like HRM straps.