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Garmin Vivoactive 5 vs COROS Apex 2

Shoppers weighing the Garmin Vivoactive 5 against the COROS Apex 2 are looking at two smartwatches within $49.01 of each other, which puts the real decision on which one's feature set actually fits how it'll be worn day to day.

Garmin Vivoactive 5

The Garmin Vivoactive 5 is built around a 1.2" display, 11 days of typical battery life, built-in GPS, 5ATM water resistance.

$299.99

Global reference price

COROS Apex 2

The COROS Apex 2 packs a 1.3" display, 17 days of typical battery life, built-in GPS, 5ATM water resistance.

$349

Global reference price

Specification Comparison

Garmin Vivoactive 5COROS Apex 2
Screen Size1.2 inch1.3 inch
Battery Life11 days17 days
Water Resistance5ATM5ATM
Built-in GPSYesYes
Cellular ConnectivityNoNo

Key Differences

Battery life is a major gap here: the COROS Apex 2 is rated for 17 days against the Garmin Vivoactive 5's 11, meaning far fewer trips to the charger.

Pros & Cons

Garmin Vivoactive 5

Pros

  • Lower price
  • Built-in GPS

Cons

  • Shorter battery life (11 days)

COROS Apex 2

Pros

  • Much longer battery life (17 days)
  • Built-in GPS

Cons

  • Costs a bit more

Which One Is Right For You?

  • Garmin Vivoactive 5: Best for someone who wants to spend a little less.
  • COROS Apex 2: A good fit for buyers who wants to charge as infrequently as possible.

Conclusion

The two trade advantages on different fronts rather than one clearly beating the other outright, so the better fit depends on what matters most for daily wear.

Summary

Garmin Vivoactive 5

Strengths

  • Lower price
  • Built-in GPS

Weaknesses

  • Shorter battery life (11 days)

COROS Apex 2

Strengths

  • Much longer battery life (17 days)
  • Built-in GPS

Weaknesses

  • Costs a bit more

Weigh the tradeoffs above against actual use: battery life, screen size, and connectivity matter differently depending on how the watch will be worn day to day.