COROS VERTIX 2 REVIEW | The Ginger Runner

[@TheGingerRunner]

The new COROS Vertix 2 is the brand’s flagship adventure watch with some interesting new features - but is it worth the price vs some of their other offerings? Let’s find out!

[@assas5472]

No it is not worth the price at this moment. In this price range maps without names of streets, mountain peaks, POI-s etc. is missunderstanding. Another missunderstanding is lack of turn-byturn navigation. Audio files management is worse than in 18 y.o. cheap chineese mp3 player - no directories, no move forward or back during playback of single audio file - you can just skip from track to track - REALLY? It's XXI century! Vertix 2 looks far more better than Polar,Garmin or Suunto, battery life is outstanding, interface with crown and touchscreen is great idea but it's not enough IMHO. I have bought Vertix 2 and I regret it. Dont't make my mistake - If somebony needs watch with useful maps and navigation right now buy Garmin Fenix 6x Pro Solar. If somebody can wait wait for Fenix 7 series or Vertix 2 upgrades.

[@razznote7586]

@@assas5472 Did you did research before buying the watch or after buying the watch?

[@grantwallace1882]

This is a great example of why I love your reviews. They are so deep and honest.

[@ALeafintheWind414]

I reviewed this watch for Trail Run Mag Australia/NZ and agree with almost everything you say. I did find better accuracy with the dual frequency on however, nor perfect but definitely better. In my opinion this watch is King of the Hill right now. For battery life alone it is worth it and that is what most Ultra and Miler runners value more than music or maps or other bells and whistles. As you say, it is also aimed at Mountaineers and the like too though and I am sure some of those hardcore types will love this. Whenever the Fenix 7 comes out, it will be interesting to see if they can match the performance of the Vertix 2.

[@drichi07]

Nice to see that you used this and tested it over a few months so we could get a real idea of any problems and its usability over time.

[@Laseroscar666]

Super curious about Coros, thanks for the review! I realize as an ultra-runner, I am a bit too happy with my fenix to dare swapping at this point, although it’s definitely getting more and more interesting. Main issue with Garmin, imo, is the almost complete absence of software and UI updates and bug fixes.

[@mlegrand]

Fantastic review! I agree with your assessment. I’m super pumped that Coros is doing so much with the software and moving that software back to older models. My main issue with this watch is the size. This watch is massive on my baby sized but still manly wrists. And that battery life just won’t quit. Amazing 🔋

[@TheGingerRunner]

Yeah, even compared to the apex pro, it’s massive!

[@vg3222]

I agree as well. I find it uncomfortable to run with. Great for everything else though.

[@ericperramond3463]

same, why I went with the Apex Pro, the V2 was just Flavor Flav sized, ridiculous.

[@mlegrand]

@@ericperramond3463 - Best response ever! I'm putting "Fight the Power".MP3 on this watch immediately. 🕰

[@mlegrand]

@@TheGingerRunner - I find myself always knocking it into doorknobs and things. Good thing it's built like a tank.

[@RyanClaytonFilms]

Love your honest review, I had a very similar experience with this one. Thanks Ethan!!

[@emithen]

My Apex is more than enough for little old me. AMAZING WATCH!!!

[@MichaelPerez-yx7le]

Yes! Coros navigation is severely lacking. I had the same problem of the nav pointing in the wrong direction. I really miss the step-by-step navigation of my Garmin Fenix.

[@PeterWetzel]

A friend recommended Coros and initially I was intrigued (my Fenix 3 often has issues charging, so want to replace it). But unlike the Garmin watches, apparently there's no way to simply grab all of the workout files off the device (I have 3 Garmins of various models, all let you plug it into a computer and access it like a USB drive). Given all the devices and services I've used over the years, I like to have the original data so that I can use it elsewhere when needed, but exporting one workout at a time via the phone app is not an acceptable solution.

[@JustinDoesTriathlon]

Really really interesting that your experience on the high end is, well, let's call it a 'tempered good.' Flag not being flown quite high enough, like you said. On the other end of the spectrum, I'm having fantastic luck with their Pace 2. If you don't actively need that mapping/HRV side of things, it's got a LOT. While the price on the Vertix might be a touch high, I'm surprised the Pace2 is as low as it is.

[@TheGingerRunner]

The pace 2 has been a SOLID choice - I really like it!

[@swipper74]

Nice review...I couldn't justify the cost..BUT I am curious as your opinion between the Apex Pro and Vertix since they are the same price now...which would you choose? I am more than pleased with the Apex 46 but tempted to upgrade to one of the two listed.

[@gabanlange9793]

i like how Coros gives the user option to choose which side the dial button can be.i always wear my watch on my righthand so having the ability to rotate the watch watch,the dial button can still point outwards instead of inwards.

[@renefeindt1174]

Great review! A bit pricey for what I need in a watch, but my nephew just got the Coros Apex. Excited to hear the map function is flowing down through their other models.

[@davidtfrederick]

Same issue with being turned around when using breadcrumb navigation on my Apex. It made me more lost than I already was.

[@marysalmon2367]

this was interesting but not being a very techy person i will stick with my garmin 235. that simple watch gave me enough anxiety but now i love it. I got lost at "firmware updates" but that's me.

[@benhoad2961]

Love my Vertix 2 but i think biggest differentiation vs my old Fenix is the customer service. I went through 4 HRM straps and they never replaced any. Coros have been spot on with all the pre and after sales service! I do notice that the button on yours might be left in the depressed position or is it moving in and out ok?

[@johnfowlertrailrunning]

Thanks for this! Still on the fence re Apex Pro / Vertix 2, but after this probably the former!

[@TheBowman5]

Lifelong Garmin user and believer here. Deep roots in KC where Garmin HQ is. Coros is undoubtedly at the top of the food chain now. Their product is simply superior. Never been happier with a watch than I have with my Coros.

[@vg3222]

Have you seen the new Fenix 7 though? I am trying to decide between both since they are exactly the same price. Really want the Coros V2, but there are so many more features with the Fenix 7... ant+ & BT, Spotify, much better mapping... but the Coros looks 100X nicer than the Fenix.

[@tadejdanev5030]

@@vg3222 get them both and then sell me 1/2 off price the one you won't keep ;)

[@streighty]

Very good review. I have the Vertix 2 (came from the Felix 3). I pretty much agree with everything you stated on here. One problem I have that you didn’t mention is when doing various things and flexing my wrist, the back side of my hand will push on the button which moves it into an exercise mode. I have even had it click it again and again and start a workout when I didn’t want it to. I have also had gloves turn off my exercises unknowingly when I have the watch under a coat in cold weather. I never had this issue with my Fenix. Frustrating to find 45 minutes later that my glove nudged the button and I missed tracking my workout.

[@nickd.9179]

I picked up a vertix 2, coming from the fenix 6x. I love the mp3 music feature, it doesn’t rely on signal so it’s more reliable when in the backcountry.

[@BP-bo7mm]

I've bought Vertix 2 and I'm very dissapointed beause of usless maps (no names) and lack of step-by- step navigation. I didn't bought Garmin because I don't like their non intuitive GPS gear like gps map 64 but now I wish I buy Fenix 6x pro...

[@nickd.9179]

@@BP-bo7mm yes the maps are pretty disappointing but hopefully a firmware update can fix that in the future. I have both the fenix 6 and vertix 2, I’m still trying to decide which I like better. The fenix has been very glitchy lately with the garmin connect app, taking a long time to sync activities and needing to restart watch etc. for 800$ I would things worked smoothly

[@BP-bo7mm]

@@nickd.9179 i have Vertix 2 and there is a problem with BT connection sometimes it works sometimes not. I wonder why they did not launched usefull maps at start. I'm afraid it could be unlovable problem. If Iwere you I would bought Fenix 6X pro solar or wait for fenix 7. At this time Vertix 2 is misunderstanding if you need good mapping and turn by turn navigation.

[@vg3222]

@@BP-bo7mm which then begs the question, why would anyone buy the V2 over the Fenix 7? The only thing that Coros has over the Fenix is battery life. Everything else, Coros is massively behind.

[@SkaiSharku]

It is an awesome looking watch that I would also gladly wear at work. I will be getting it and when I emailed them the other day about a feature I wanted (seconds, which is somewhat available) I mentioned about being able to control music on my phone and they said that it's in front of the team right now. So a lot of good things to look forward to. And they just hope that it'll last me for years to come

[@MarkGriffith]

Thanks for your honest review. Been coveting but not needing a new watch ;) this has me waiting.

[@MYTravelBF]

Thank you for this! I've been looking at buying one of these as my old, old Garmin slowly dying...Changing companies is a big decision!

[@MapleYum]

Exceptional Watch review. Very thorough! I have an Apple Watch but I’m looking for something more fitness focused. Pace 2 is top of my list, except it doesn’t have winter sports which is annoying.

[@runraggedrhino]

The only feature aside from ever longer abs longer Battery life that I would want in my watch is reliable heart rate monitoring. Otherwise, I'm super happy with my suunto9

[@Dibble.officer]

Love the facial expressions in the intro..very James Bond / Austin Powers..!! Cheers Ethan..

[@andrewalderfer2366]

More like George Costanza as a hand model.

[@julianosaddockdesa]

Man, about mp3 dated, I agree that a expensive GPS like that need to have others options, BUT you don't live in a country less developed. Me for example, with a terrible 4g service and expensive stream services in Brazil, use mp3 player or mp3 downloaded in the phone every other day.

[@zacharybarrett5569]

Off topic, but does Rabbit make the shirt your wearing in this video anymore? Can’t seem to find it on the website. Like the Henley style in running shirts and they are somewhat hard to find!

[@johns.outside]

Another great review.🤘 I love the Buy/Try/Why you do and your honesty with each one.

[@treefort5009]

Love your tech reviews, thanks!

[@Average-AL]

Hi. I notice that you don't make as many watch reviews now. But still. I would like to ask if this watch has the biggest display on the market or if there are others that have bigger displays? I have lost a lot of eyesight in recent years so I can barely read a 2 dataset split on my Garmin 245 and need to update to the biggest possible display.

[@tylerlikesbikes355]

can you place waypoints on the watch outside of the workout function

[@joeantonicci8920]

I have it and i love it

[@jeremyrobinette2563]

Would this watch be more worth it in your opinion if it was say $560 instead of $700? Thanks!

[@Dannyv1987]

I.just got my coros vertix 2 but I wore it the first time to track my sleep and when I woke up it didnt track my sleep I was pissed do u know if there is something I I could do to fix it

[@TheHuskyRunner]

Current watch set-up is an Apple Watch for the daily and a Coros Pace 2 for running. I think the grail for me is an Apex and Apple Watch. Maybe one day I can get away from the Apple Watch and just stick to a GPS watch.

[@Predazord007]

Absolutely love the idea of owning a Coros, I just couldn’t justify giving up my Garmin Fenix

[@jerrydaniels1191]

I went from the Fenix 5 (my 3rd Garmin) to Coros Apex Pro, absolutely worth the change, especially with Strava, giving any data (very few), that Coros doesn't capture....

[@Predazord007]

@@jerrydaniels1191 What sort of data?

[@byorke80]

What's with the "PROTECTION" at 4:04?

[@Edgar-d7w]

i would like buy coros vertix 2

[@shorerocks]

Interesting that COROS is not enabling free LOSSLESS formats like FLAC, to ensure you can listen to the music collection you might have, on the run. There was a world before streaming, you know.

[@mmmbear]

Can you put in waypoints or lat/long to navigate to on the watch?

[@AandEGirlPower]

Excellent information

[@ryang4492]

Hey Ethan just curious if you've seen improvements to the HRV, music and dual satellite GPS accuracy since you made this review? Those are features I'd be interested in, and I'm hopeful considering the constant updates COROS seems to release. Thanks

[@richt3993]

I've just bought it and the dual frequency is outstanding compared to the 6x and 7x All Sats (I tried the solar not the sapphire with the dual sys)

[@ryang4492]

@@richt3993 hey thanks! Now also considering the Apex Pro 2 since it seems to have the same functionality (maybe not music, though?) at a slightly more palatable price point…

[@richt3993]

@@ryang4492 Yeah I wouldnt have paid full price. I was lucky with a brand new unsealed version with 40% on Ebay

[@brianrosenberger9485]

I love the styling of the Vertix compared to the Apex Pro. Also for me the weight seems to be too much for my liking.

[@TheGingerRunner]

Yeah, it’s definitely beefier and “looks” the part. But 30g heavier!

[@brianrosenberger9485]

I have an older Apple Watch and a Garmin 245. I’m really interested in the Apex Pro, but kind of want to see the next version.

[@brianrosenberger9485]

I have an older Apple Watch and a Garmin 245. I’m really interested in the Apex Pro, but kind of want to see the next version.

[@hongkongeatsandadventures5497]

@@brianrosenberger9485 Even the Apex is miles ahead of what you’ll get from an Apple Watch. I was shocked by the differences in distance when I ran with them both. Apple distances are much higher - which is a great boost to the ego, but not necessarily the truth.

[@brianrosenberger9485]

@@hongkongeatsandadventures5497 well right now my main is the 245. It’s battery life is much better than Apple and it’s really light.

[@travisjewell1759]

You could run the Moab 240 on one watch charge, crazy!

[@j1lakenan1]

Joe McConaughy and Mike McKnight (1st and 2nd place) at the Cocodonna 250 both finished in a single charge this year.

[@tnanoialb]

ETE and ETA ?

[@daniellimaribeiro7387]

Honest review! Thank you. Saving us a lot of bucks. Not buying it.

[@TheMoonSeesMe]

On my Apex I can set which wrist I have it on. I think this is so it knows which way on the watch should show the arrow as it would be different on each wrist. I also think that perhaps the reason for the upgrades is because they released it earlier than they could have - knowing that some of the features they were planning on would come out later on. My Apex is not getting any more upgrades ... but because of the higher cost of the Vertix and Vertix 2 they may keep getting upgrades.

[@espenandersen3138]

Thats a big watch

[@ThatFlowState]

I think Coros value is firmly in the low to mid priced options (the Pace 2 is amazing value). But if one charges flagship prices then one has to deliver and Coros just doesn't with the Vertix 2 (especially given recent deals on the Fenix 6 lineup). I don't think Coros will ever be of interest to me as I hate their (or any) digital crown for UI navigation. The 5 button design is just my preference.

[@BP-bo7mm]

Maps without names of streets, mountain peaks, touristic tracks,POI-s are useless. Another problem is lackbof turn-by-turn navigation. No - these maps aren't work at all...

[@vg3222]

I totally agree. To me, its a huge problem for Coros... doesn't make sense why anyone would buy the COros V2 over the Fenix 7, considering they have the same price. If Coros had reduced the price on the Vertix 2 by say, $200 then that would make it more competitive.

[@Pat4best]

Good review, but this weird posing in the intro looks a bit, well, let's say weird

[@wandatowellable]

That watch is HUUUUUGE!

[@stevenhunter5929]

Coros navigation is terrible! I've been asking (and several other users) for years. Please give us Garmin (Fenix series) navigation!!!!

[@BP-bo7mm]

YES! you absolutelt right! What is the purpose to give user a map without names? Lack of turn-by-turn navigation is also stupid

[@heavyrunnerweightlifter4392]

When you said 699 bucks by stomach fell into my shoes.

[@tadejdanev5030]

you have 2000-3000€ monthly salary so it's easy ;)

[@SupperUpper]

Garmin should sue the f…ing crap out of them.

[@tommyrunsfar]

Stopped watching at "699 Bucks"

[@hongkongeatsandadventures5497]

It’s pricey, but it is a flagship mode. I’m interested to see what Apple’s “sport” watch will retail for as well as the feature set.