Suunto Core 2 keeps outdoor watches deliberately simple

Suunto has released the Core 2, a new version of its hiking watch that prioritizes an altimeter, barometer, and compass over apps and notifications. The design remains intentionally focused on straightforward outdoor use for mountain trips, forest routes, and wet conditions.

The Core line has long been associated with “survival watches” rather than wrist-worn smartphones. Suunto has kept that approach intact, making targeted updates instead of turning the Core 2 into a hybrid smartwatch. Competitors including Garmin, Coros, and Casio offer a broader range of outdoor models and features, but the Core 2 is aimed at users who value endurance and simple operation.

What changed in the Suunto Core 2

The watch’s Bluetooth connection is limited to transferring settings and installing firmware updates. It does not provide a platform for apps, calls, or notifications.

Suunto lists several hardware and software improvements:

• The LED matrix is 40% brighter than the previous model.
• The backlight can switch between red and green modes.
• The ABC sensors—altimeter, barometer, and compass—have been updated.
• The storm-warning algorithm has been revised.
• The case is rated to 10 ATM and complies with MIL-STD-810H.
• The user-replaceable CR3032 battery lasts for up to 15 months.

That battery life explains much of the Core 2's deliberately old-fashioned character. Instead of requiring regular charging, the watch is designed to remain ready for long expeditions and extended routes. Its display and navigation instruments are intended to work without the additional complexity of a smartwatch interface.

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Suunto Core 2 is already available in the United States for $199. The company did not provide pricing or availability details for other markets.

Sergey Kuznetsov is editor-in-chief of itzine.ru and a technical journalist with 15 years of experience. He specializes in in-depth testing of audio equipment, cameras, and consumer electronics, and has written more than 5,000 articles covering topics from gaming chairs and networking equipment to smartphone and wearable-device market analysis. He oversees the publication’s expert sections and editorial policy.

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