Suunto Core

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Suunto Core: Review

β€œA versatile outdoor watch with comprehensive tracking features.”

Overview


Suunto Core is a versatile outdoor watch designed for adventurers and outdoor enthusiasts. This watch is known for its robust build and comprehensive tracking features.

Key Features:

  • Altimeter and Barometer: Tracks altitude and air pressure changes, essential for outdoor activities.
  • Compass: Provides accurate directional guidance.
  • Sunrise/Sunset Time: Allows users to plan their activities around daylight hours.

The Suunto Core is an ideal choice for outdoor enthusiasts who prioritize accurate elevation tracking and weather monitoring for activities like hiking and skiing. Its durable design offers reliability, making it suitable for various outdoor conditions.

According to our analysis of prices across the internet, at current rates it's in the cheapest 20% of running watches.

Verdict

The consensus on the Suunto Core


The Suunto Core is a reliable choice for outdoor enthusiasts, offering a range of features that cater to various activities. Its altimeter and barometer are particularly useful for tracking elevation and weather changes, making it a great companion for hiking and skiing. The compass provides accurate directional guidance, while the sunrise/sunset feature helps plan activities effectively. However, some users have noted that the watch operates slowly as the battery life decreases, and the backlight may not perform well in colder weather. Despite these minor drawbacks, the watch's durability and ease of use make it a valuable tool for outdoor adventures. Overall, the Suunto Core offers good value for money with its comprehensive features and robust design.

Comparable Watches


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The Garmin Fenix 5 is a popular alternative to the Suunto Core, offering advanced GPS capabilities and heart-rate monitoring. While the Fenix 5 provides more connectivity features, the Suunto Core excels in durability and simplicity, making it a better choice for those who prefer a straightforward, rugged watch. The Fenix 5's higher price point may also be a consideration for budget-conscious buyers.

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The Polar Grit X is a robust outdoor watch with advanced training features and GPS. It offers more in-depth fitness tracking compared to the Suunto Core, which focuses on essential outdoor functions. The Grit X's higher price and complexity might not suit everyone, but it is a strong choice for those who want comprehensive training data alongside outdoor capabilities.

5 Suunto Core Pros & Cons


3 Pros

Stylish design with multiple color options.
Accurate compass and barometer for outdoor tracking.
Easy-to-read watch face with clear display.

2 Cons

Operates slowly as battery life decreases.
Backlight may not work well in colder weather.

In Depth


Battery life

The Suunto Core features a removable battery that lasts approximately one year, making it a reliable choice for long-term use. This feature is particularly beneficial for those who engage in extended outdoor activities, as it eliminates the need for frequent charging. However, users should be aware that the watch may operate more slowly as the battery life decreases, indicating the need for a replacement. The removable battery design aligns with the watch's focus on durability and convenience, ensuring that it remains functional in various conditions.

Screen quality and brightness

The Suunto Core's screen is designed for easy readability, even in challenging outdoor conditions. The large watch face allows users to view multiple data points simultaneously, enhancing the overall user experience. However, some users have reported that the backlight may not perform optimally in colder weather, which could affect visibility during nighttime activities. Despite this, the screen's clarity and size make it a practical choice for those who need to access information quickly and efficiently.

Strap comfort

The Suunto Core's strap is designed for comfort and durability, featuring a rubber material that is both firm and flexible. With 13 adjustable holes, the strap can be customized to fit various wrist sizes, ensuring a secure and comfortable fit during activities. The strap's design complements the watch's overall focus on durability, making it suitable for prolonged use in diverse outdoor environments. Users have praised the strap for its balance between rigidity and softness, which contributes to the watch's overall comfort.

Who should buy the Suunto Core?


The Suunto Core is ideal for outdoor enthusiasts who engage in activities like hiking, skiing, and climbing. Its comprehensive features, such as the altimeter and barometer, make it suitable for those who need accurate elevation tracking and weather monitoring. The watch's durable design and waterproof capabilities are perfect for individuals who participate in water sports or require a reliable device in various weather conditions. Additionally, the sunrise/sunset feature is beneficial for those who plan their activities around daylight hours.

Who should not buy the Suunto Core?


The Suunto Core may not be the best choice for individuals seeking advanced connectivity features, as it does not support Bluetooth or WiFi. Those who prefer a watch with integrated heart-rate monitoring or GPS capabilities might find this model lacking. Additionally, users who require a watch with a rechargeable battery may want to consider other options, as the Suunto Core relies on a removable battery. For those who prioritize these features, alternative models with more advanced technology might be more suitable.

Suunto Core: What's it good for?


The Suunto Core is well-suited for outdoor activities such as hiking, skiing, and climbing. Its elevation tracking capabilities make it ideal for those who need to monitor altitude changes. The watch's sunrise/sunset time feature is beneficial for planning activities around daylight hours. Additionally, its waterproof design allows for use in water sports, making it a versatile choice for various outdoor pursuits. Durability and reliability are key strengths, ensuring it performs well in diverse conditions.

5 Suunto Core FAQs


How long does the Suunto Core's battery last?

The Suunto Core's battery lasts approximately one year, depending on usage. It features a removable battery, which can be replaced when needed.

Is the Suunto Core waterproof?

Yes, the Suunto Core is waterproof up to 30 meters, making it suitable for various water activities.

Does the Suunto Core have GPS?

No, the Suunto Core does not have GPS capabilities. It focuses on essential outdoor features like altimeter, barometer, and compass.

Can the Suunto Core track heart rate?

No, the Suunto Core does not include a heart-rate monitor. It is designed for outdoor tracking and weather monitoring.

What materials are used in the Suunto Core's construction?

The Suunto Core features a durable rubber strap and a robust watch face, designed to withstand various outdoor conditions.

Suunto Core alternatives

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Suunto Core
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Suunto Core
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priceBand
Price band
released
Released
Jun 2021Oct 2022Nov 2017
expertReviewScore
Expert Review Score
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Battery life
Battery life
336 hours
504 hours
168 hours
168 hours
168 hours
Battery life – GPS mode
Battery life – GPS mode
300 hours
40 hours
40 hours
Screen size
Screen size
30 mm
30 mm
Weight
Weight
63 g
52 g
55 g
70 g
74 g
74 g
Height
Height
49 mm
43 mm
43 mm
50 mm
50 mm
50 mm
Resolution
Resolution
240 x 240 px
240 x 240 px
320 x 300 px
320 x 300 px
300 x 320 px
Waterproof depth
Waterproof depth
30 m
100 m
10 m
100 m
100 m
100 m
Pixel density
Pixel density
282 ppi
Charging time
Charging time
2 hours
Activity Tracking Features
Activity Tracking Features
Elevation tracking
Activity detectionActivity taggingDistance trackingElevation trackingExercise taggingPace measurementSteps trackingSwim stroke counterTrackback modeActivity detectionActivity taggingDistance trackingElevation trackingExercise taggingPace measurementSteps trackingSwim stroke counterActivity taggingDistance trackingElevation trackingPace measurementRoute uploadsSteps trackingSwim stroke counterActivity taggingDistance trackingElevation trackingPace measurementRoute uploadsSteps trackingSwim stroke counterActivity detectionActivity taggingDistance trackingElevation trackingPace measurementRoute uploadsSteps trackingSwim stroke counterTrackback mode
Health tracking features
Health tracking features
Calorie burn trackingSleep trackingCalorie burn trackingSleep trackingCalorie burn trackingSleep tracking
Connectivity Types
Connectivity Types
Automatic syncingWireless syncing
Sensors
Sensors
BarometerCompass
AccelerometerBarometerBlood oxygenation monitorCadence sensorCompassGPSGyroscopeHeart rate monitorAccelerometerBarometerBlood oxygenation monitorBody temperature sensorCadence sensorCompassGPSGyroscopeHeart rate monitorAccelerometerCadence sensorCompassGPSAccelerometerCadence sensorCompassGPSHeart rate monitorAccelerometerBarometerCadence sensorCompassGalileoGPSGyroscopeHeart rate monitor
Waterproofings
Waterproofings
IP67Sweat resistant
IP67Sweat resistantIP67Sweat resistantIP67Sweat resistantIP67Sweat resistant
Alerts
Alerts
Thunderstorm warnings
Inactivity alertsVibrating alertsInactivity alertsVibrating alertsInactivity alertsSilent alarmThunderstorm warningsVibrating alerts
Supported peripherals
Supported peripherals
Compatible heart monitorCompatible heart monitorCompatible heart monitor
Screen features
Screen features
Always-on displaySapphire glassTouch screenTouch screenTouch screenTouch screen
Battery features
Battery features
Removable battery
Rechargeable batteryWireless chargingBattery level indicatorRechargeable batteryRechargeable batteryRechargeable batteryRechargeable battery
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Suunto Core: what the experts say (1 review)

Suunto Core: 2 Manufacturer videos

Suunto Core characteristics and specifications

Specificationsvs Average
Measurements
Width
49 mm
Height
49 mm
Thickness
15 mm
Weight
63 g
Temperature
Min. temperature
-20 Β°C
Max. temperature
60 Β°C
Waterproofing
Waterproof depth
30 m
AuthorTom Green
Tom is the founder of geerly. Based in West London, he found his passion for running in his mid-30s. He’s best at longer distances, and is a regular at the London Marathon, where he's edging closer to sub-2.40. He started geerly because he found it frustrating when shopping for running shoes spending ages trying to find the best deal in his size, and wading through verbose, waffling reviews clearly designed to appeal to search engines rather than be helpful to users. For geerly he's passionate about writing reviews that get straight to the point, and helping runners find the right gear at the best price.
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Tom Green
December 10, 2024 at 9:55 AM
Gunnersbury parkrun #230 (my #3️⃣4️⃣)
πŸ“Š Stats by geerly πŸ‘Ÿ πŸ•’ Official time: 00:22:45 | Course PB 🚨 🏁 Overall position: 35/549 🚹 Gender position: 21/299 🎯 Age grade: 61%