Many times in the tech industry things get overthought. Companies love to overcomplicate things in their portfolio for what seems like no reason. When COROS reached out to review its new Heart Rate Monitor, I was shocked at how simple the spec sheet seemed.Â
Did this new COROS HR Monitor live up to the dedicated functions it advertised? The short answer is yes, but let’s take a bigger look at how it pulls it off.
Design
Leaning into the minimalist vibes of the HR Monitor, the design is pretty straightforward. You have COROS’s legendary optical heart rate monitor built into an elastic armband. That’s it.
The band is a soft, nylon weave that’s stretchy and breathable. It’s also very comfortable. Many alternatives I’ve used have a coarser threaded weave that can be abrasive in longer workout sessions.
The HR Monitor band is adjustable, allowing you to synch it to the size you need to be secure but not too tight on the bicep. COROS recommends you fit it just above the bicep at the base of the shoulder. I also like that the HR sensor casing is also adjustable on the strap, making it easy to find that optimal comfort.
The COROS Heart Rate Monitor proves that simple is often better, combining a soft, breathable fit with rock-solid accuracy that makes it an essential companion for any athlete.
Performance
Now, none of that matters if the COROS HR Monitor looks and feels good but doesn’t work. I’m pleased to report performance isn’t an issue. In my testing, the monitor has been exceptional.
The COROS requires another device to store and sync back to companion apps. This isn’t a standalone device like the AmazFit Helio. I’ve used this paired with several devices, including the COROS Pace 4, Suunto Vertical 2, and the AmazFit Balance 2.
Each unit was able to easily pair and read the data presented from the COROS HR Monitor. I’ve found the heart rate tracking to be consistent across all those units. I’ve started to lean into more kettlebell work recently and find a bicep strap is much more comfortable than a watch.
The COROS HR Monitor has been a great addition to these workouts. The rock-solid performance and comfortable fit make it a fantastic option for those needing to sync data to a companion device. The heart rate sensor has been one of the most accurate I’ve seen as well.
Battery Life
COROS rates the HR Monitor at 38 hours of usage and 80 hours of standby. I’ve found this to be accurate as well. I’ve been using the band up to four times per week over the last month and only had to charge it once.
When you do have to recharge, COROS includes a USB-C charger in the box. This connects via pogo-style magnetic pins. The magnets are strong and secure the unit well. Fully refueling the HR Monitor takes just under two hours.
Pinnacle Selection represents our highest honor, one reserved for products that stand out in design, performance, and overall value.
Products earning this distinction exemplify excellence across the board, delivering an experience that truly rises above the rest.
When you see the badge, you’re looking at the best of what’s available in its category.
Final Thoughts
Sometimes dead simple solutions are the best options. The COROS HR Monitor proves this translates to fitness tracking as well. The comfortable fit and exceptional heart rate monitoring make this a fantastic companion for any fitness watch.
You can snag the COROS HR Monitor directly from the COROS website and Amazon. You can choose between Grey, Lime, or Orange colorways. The final killer spec is the $79 price tag. This combination makes the COROS HR Monitor challenging to beat in this space.
Purchase the COROS HR Monitor from COROS
Purchase the COROS HR Monitor from Amazon
