Are you torn between the reliable Suunto Race and the upgraded Suunto Race 2? As GPS sports watches continue to evolve, Suunto has delivered an incremental yet impactful update with the Race 2, targeting serious athletes who demand better accuracy, battery life, and features.
In this Suunto Race vs Suunto Race 2 comparison, we’ll break down the key differences to help you decide which one suits your training needs.
Whether you’re into running, cycling, or multisport activities, understanding these upgrades can make all the difference.
For more on Suunto’s lineup, check out our Suunto Race S vs Suunto Run Article for insights on the smaller variant. or our Suunto Run review for a budget-friendly alternative.
Launched in 2023, the original Suunto Race set a high bar with its AMOLED display, offline maps, and robust build.
The Race 2, released in 2025, builds on this foundation with hardware refinements that promise future-proofing and improved performance.
Priced at $499 for the stainless steel model (up from $449), and $599 for titanium (up from $549), the Race 2 justifies the bump with enhancements like a larger screen and better heart rate tracking.
Let’s dive into the specifics.
Display Comparison
One of the most noticeable upgrades in the Suunto Race 2 is its display.
Both watches feature vibrant AMOLED LTPO screens with sapphire crystal protection for durability, but the Race 2 steps up in size and brightness.
| Feature | Suunto Race | Suunto Race 2 |
|---|---|---|
| Screen Size | 1.43 inches | 1.5 inches |
| Resolution | 466 x 466 pixels | 466 x 466 pixels |
| Brightness | Standard (not specified, but lower than Race 2) | Up to 2,000 nits |
| Technology | AMOLED LTPO | AMOLED LTPO |
The larger 1.5-inch display on the Race 2 offers better visibility for maps and stats during intense workouts, especially in bright sunlight thanks to the 2,000-nit brightness.
Users report the touchscreen is responsive, though the digital crown remains handy for navigation. If you’re upgrading from the original Race, the extra screen real estate makes glancing at data fields easier without sacrificing battery life significantly.
Design Differences (Size, Weight, Material)
Suunto has refined the design in the Race 2 to make it sleeker and more comfortable for all-day wear, while maintaining the rugged appeal that athletes love.
| Feature | Suunto Race | Suunto Race 2 |
|---|---|---|
| Case Size | 49mm | 49mm |
| Thickness | 13.3mm | 12.5mm |
| Weight (Steel) | 83g | 76g |
| Weight (Titanium) | 69g | 65g |
| Materials | Stainless steel or titanium case, sapphire glass, silicone strap | Same, with improved charger design |
| Water Resistance | 100m | 100m |
| Band Size | 22mm interchangeable | 22mm interchangeable |
The Race 2 is thinner by about 6% and lighter, reducing wrist fatigue during long runs or hikes.
Both models come in stainless steel or titanium variants, with the latter being pricier but more lightweight.
The updated charger on the Race 2 snaps on more securely with a braided cable, addressing a common complaint from original Race users.
Overall, the design evolution makes the Race 2 feel more premium without altering the familiar form factor.
Suunto Race vs Race 2 Battery Life
Battery performance is a standout feature for both, but the Suunto Race 2 edges out with slight improvements, making it ideal for ultra-endurance events.
| Feature | Suunto Race | Suunto Race 2 |
|---|---|---|
| Smartwatch Mode | Up to 18 days | Up to 16-18 days |
| Dual-Band GPS Mode | Up to 50 hours | Up to 55 hours |
| With Always-On Display | Reduced (approx. 40-45 hours GPS) | Up to 50 hours GPS |
In real-world testing, the Race 2 lasts 7-8 days with daily activities and always-on display enabled.
The original Race is no slouch, but the Race 2’s efficiency gains come from a new processor and optimized hardware.
For multisport athletes, this means fewer charges during training weeks, though heavy map usage will drain both similarly.
Sports Modes and Tracking
Both the Suunto Race and Race 2 excel in sports tracking, supporting over 110 modes including running, cycling, swimming, and hiking. T
hey integrate with apps like Strava, Komoot, and TrainingPeaks for seamless data syncing.
Key similarities include dual-band GPS for accurate tracking, barometric altimeter for elevation, and offline topographic maps (free downloads via the Suunto app).
However, the Race 2’s improved optical heart rate sensor addresses a major pain point of the original, offering accuracy comparable to chest straps in most scenarios.
GPS performance is solid on both, though the Race 2 shows minor inconsistencies in urban areas. Customizable data fields (up to 8 per page) and interval workouts are identical, making the transition seamless for upgraders.
New Features on Race 2
The Suunto Race 2 introduces several hardware and software enhancements that future-proof it for athletes:
- Improved Heart Rate Sensor: Dramatically better accuracy for runs, intervals, and cycling, rivaling Garmin and Coros.
- Faster Processor and More Memory: Doubles processing speed for snappier UI and supports future updates.
- Multi-Sensor Pairing: Save multiple external sensors (e.g., power meters) with battery status display.
- Enhanced Navigation: Added waypoints to Climb Guidance and improved elevation charts.
- AI Coach Prompts: Beta feature in the app for personalized training plans (though it has some bugs).
- Voice Guidance: Direct integration with Suunto Wing 2 headset.
- Recovery State in App: Better insights into recovery metrics.
These additions make the Race 2 more versatile, especially for competitive users, but many software features have been backported to the original Race via updates.
In conclusion, if you’re on a budget and the original Suunto Race’s heart rate accuracy isn’t a dealbreaker, it remains a fantastic choice—especially with its lower price point.
However, for those seeking the latest in display size, battery tweaks, and sensor reliability, the Suunto Race 2 is worth the upgrade. Weigh your needs against the $100 premium.
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