A capable compact watch with limited smartwatch appeal
Image: official product image from suunto.com
Is the Suunto Race 3S good for ultrarunning?
Yes. The Suunto Race 3S is a strong choice for ultrarunning if you prioritise accurate dual-band GPS, offline maps and a light 46 mm build over smartwatch extras. Reported GPS endurance ranges from about 38 to 55 hours by mode, enough for many ultras, but use a chest strap if dependable heart-rate data matters.
Key facts
| Category | GPS watches |
|---|---|
| Release | Launched 15 October 2026 in the UK and Europe; US from 29 October 2026 |
| Price | $599 / €499 / £435 to £499, depending on source and market |
| Key specs |
|
| Best for | Trail runners and ultrarunners wanting a compact, durable watch with offline maps, accurate GPS and long battery life, rather than extensive smartwatch features. |
| Consensus score | 8.1 out of 10 |
What is the Suunto Race 3S?
The Suunto Race 3S is a 46 mm multisport watch designed for trail running and other endurance sports. It weighs about 53 to 56 g and combines a titanium bezel and sapphire crystal with a 1.32-inch AMOLED display, rated at up to 2,000 nits. Dual-band GPS and free offline maps support route guidance, while storage is 64 GB. Reviews describe it as a compact, comfortable watch with premium materials. The supplied information does not establish specific changes from a predecessor, so this review focuses on its current features and performance.
How does it perform on ultras?
Across the five cited reviews, testers generally praised the Suunto Race 3S for accurate GPS, a readable display and useful navigation on trails. Reported GPS endurance varies by mode and testing, at approximately 38 to 55 hours; daily-use battery life is listed at up to 12 days. Reviewers differed on optical heart-rate accuracy, with some finding readings inconsistent or low, so a chest strap is a sensible option for demanding sessions. AI Coach and dynamic pacing add training tools, although reviewers noted variation in availability and software polish.
Who should buy the Race 3S?
The Race 3S suits trail runners and ultrarunners who want a relatively light, compact watch with offline maps, dual-band GPS and enough reported battery endurance for many long events. Its bright screen, navigation and training features are more compelling than its smartwatch functions: there are no contactless payments, calls or broad third-party app support. Price is another drawback, at $599, €499 or £435 to £499 depending on source and market. Consider it if Suunto’s sports and mapping tools matter more to you than everyday connected features.
What reviewers agree on
Strengths
- Compact, lightweight design with premium materials
- Bright, legible AMOLED display
- Accurate GPS and useful offline mapping
- Strong battery life for long runs and many multi-day outings
- Useful trail and training features
Weaknesses
- Expensive, with value questioned by reviewers
- No contactless payments, calls or broad third-party app support
- Optical heart-rate accuracy is inconsistent across reviews
- AI Coach availability and software polish vary
- Less capable as a general smartwatch than some rivals
Frequently asked questions
How does the Suunto Race 3S fit?
The watch has a 46 mm case and weighs approximately 53 to 56 g, depending on source and configuration. Reviewers describe its design as compact, lightweight and comfortable. The supplied data does not include wrist-size guidance or a specific fit measurement, so check the case dimensions against your preferences before buying.
How long does the Suunto Race 3S battery last?
Suunto lists up to 12 days of daily-use battery life. Reported GPS endurance is approximately 38 to 55 hours, varying with mode and testing. That range can cover many ultraruns, but the actual runtime depends on the selected GPS mode and use.
Suunto Race 3S vs a smartwatch: which should you choose?
Choose the Race 3S if trail navigation, offline maps and multisport features are priorities. Its smartwatch offering is limited, with no contactless payments, calls or broad third-party app support. Reviews do not establish a direct specification-by-specification comparison with a particular rival.
Sources behind this review
How this review works: the consensus score of 8.1 out of 10 condenses the verdicts of the independent reviews and lab tests listed above, compiled by endurance coach Paul Forrest. Prices and specifications are those quoted by reviewers at the time of testing and may have changed.
Training for an ultra? See endurance coaching with Paul Forrest.
