# Suunto Race 3S Review: Premium Build Meets Significant Price Hike The new Suunto Race 3S offers improved tracking accuracy but struggles with market positioning. - **Source:** [Latest from TechRadar](https://www.techradar.com/feeds.xml) - **Published:** 2026-11-12 - **Topic:** [technology](https://brifing.si/c/technology) - **Original article:** - **On Brifing:** https://brifing.si/s/8ff6345f-a63d-4476-abba-5a35cc9484bb ## Market Positioning and Pricing The Suunto Race 3S enters the market at $599, representing a $150 increase over its predecessor. This aggressive pricing places the device in direct competition with high-end wearables from established rivals. Despite the premium materials, the significant cost hike challenges its value proposition in an already crowded fitness tracker segment. ## Design and Build Quality Suunto has utilized premium materials, incorporating a titanium bezel and sapphire crystal glass for enhanced durability. The device features a 1.32-inch AMOLED display and retains a traditional pin-based strap design. These aesthetic and structural choices aim to justify the higher price point by offering a more robust, high-end physical build. ## Improved Heart Rate Accuracy A primary upgrade in the Race 3S is the reworked optical heart rate sensor. Testing indicates that the new hardware provides performance near lockstep with the Apple Watch Series 11. This improvement addresses the significant tracking deficiencies observed in previous iterations of the Suunto Race series, marking a major technical advancement. ## Storage and Connectivity Limitations The device doubles its onboard storage to 64GB, catering to users who prefer offline music playback. However, the watch lacks modern conveniences such as NFC contactless payments and third-party app support. These omissions are notable given the premium price, as many competitors offer these features as standard in lower-cost models. ## Battery and Performance Metrics The Race 3S delivers approximately 12 days of battery life in standard smartwatch mode. Even with the always-on display active and multi-band GPS tracking enabled, users can expect around 35 hours of continuous performance. This efficiency is maintained despite the inclusion of a brighter display and more intensive sensor processing. ## AI-Driven Coaching Features Suunto has introduced a new AI coaching subscription service that utilizes machine learning to summarize training data. Users can interact with the system via natural language to generate fitness plans or analyze recovery rates. This feature aligns the brand with current industry trends toward personalized, chatbot-style health and recovery insights. ## Comparative Market Context When evaluated against alternatives like the Garmin Forerunner 970 or the Coros Pace 4, the Race 3S occupies a difficult middle ground. While it offers superior build quality and improved sensor accuracy, the lack of streaming services and contactless payments makes it a harder sell for budget-conscious consumers seeking comprehensive utility. ## Final Verdict and Outlook The Suunto Race 3S is a competent wearable that successfully resolves previous tracking issues. However, the steep price increase makes it difficult to recommend for casual users. It remains a niche choice for those prioritizing specific heart rate accuracy and titanium construction over the broader ecosystem features found in rival devices. ## Sources covering this story - https://www.techradar.com/health-fitness/smartwatches/suunto-race-3s-review-competent-and-stylish-but-overpriced — --- _Summary written by Brifing from the original reporting. Copyright in the original article belongs to its publisher; read the full piece at the link above._