The Coros Apex Pro has garnered attention in the multisport GPS watch market, offering a blend of advanced features and durability. This review delves into its design, functionality, and overall performance.
Design and Build
The Apex Pro boasts a titanium alloy bezel and a sapphire glass screen, ensuring robustness while maintaining a lightweight profile. Weighing approximately 59 grams with the silicone band, it strikes a balance between durability and comfort. The 1.2-inch display, though clear in direct sunlight, may require backlighting in dim conditions.
Features and Functionality
Equipped with a suite of sensors, including a barometric altimeter, accelerometer, gyroscope, heart rate monitor, and pulse oximeter, the Apex Pro caters to diverse athletic pursuits. Its user interface combines physical buttons with a touchscreen, facilitating intuitive navigation. Notably, the watch supports fitness tracking across various activities, from running and cycling to swimming.
Battery Life
One of the standout attributes of the Apex Pro is its exceptional battery longevity. Coros claims up to 40 hours in GPS mode and 30 days in smartwatch mode. User experiences corroborate these figures, with reports of the watch lasting several weeks on a single charge under typical usage.
Performance and Accuracy
In terms of GPS accuracy, the Apex Pro performs commendably, with minimal discrepancies in distance tracking. The optical heart rate monitor delivers reliable readings during steady-state activities, though, like many wrist-based sensors, it may exhibit variability during high-intensity intervals.
User Experience
The accompanying Coros app enhances the user experience by offering a streamlined interface for data analysis and watch customization. While the app lacks some of the social features found in competitors like Garmin Connect, it excels in simplicity and ease of use.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Robust and lightweight design
- Extensive battery life
- Comprehensive multisport tracking
- User-friendly interface
Cons:
- Limited smartwatch features (e.g., no music storage or contactless payments)
- Screen visibility can be challenging in low-light conditions without backlighting
Conclusion
The Coros Apex Pro stands out as a reliable companion for endurance athletes seeking a multisport GPS watch with remarkable battery life and essential tracking capabilities. While it may not offer the extensive feature set of some higher-priced competitors, its performance and durability make it a worthy consideration for those prioritizing functionality over frills.