The short answer: The Suunto Core 2 is the next generation of Suunto's outdoor watch with Altimeter, Barometer, and Compass (ABC) functions, scheduled for release in July 2026. It features a brighter matrix LED display, switchable red and green backlight, 10 ATM water resistance, MIL-STD-810H durability, and Bluetooth connectivity, all powered by a long-lasting, user-replaceable CR3032 battery. It is a specialized ABC watch, refined for those who rely on it.
Some things are better refined than reinvented.
The Suunto Core watch was released over a decade ago and became a rare phenomenon: a reliable tool that people trusted day in and day out where gear is put to the ultimate test. It earned that trust by doing everything right, reliably, and exactly as much as was needed.
Today, we introduce the Suunto Core 2.
The same soul. Everything else is better.
The Core 2 continues the traditions of the first model, based on the belief that an outdoor watch should be a true tool, built to tell you the essentials: altitude, weather, and direction—without distractions, allowing you to focus on the path ahead.
This belief is reflected in the design. The Core 2 inherits the rugged character of the original: a silhouette recognizable at first glance, which largely explains the watch's popularity among Everyday Carry (EDC) enthusiasts and lovers of thoughtful design. It has been refined where it matters: a smoother bezel curve, an improved strap, and a comfortable fit on the wrist for all-day wear.
What has changed is how efficiently it performs its tasks and how pleasant it is to use every day.
An optimized and brighter display for field conditions
The first thing you notice is the display. The Core 2 uses a high-contrast matrix LED screen that is 40% brighter than the original, protected by stronger Gorilla Glass. Thanks to this, altitude and pressure data are perfectly readable at a glance, both in direct sunlight and at dusk. The switchable red and green backlight adapts to any conditions: red preserves night vision, while green is ideal for low-light situations.
Built for harsh conditions
The Core 2 is water-resistant to 10 ATM and meets the MIL-STD-810H military standard, making it ready for rain, river crossings, impacts, and cold. The barometer tracks pressure changes, and a more accurate storm alarm warns of danger in advance and reliably, minimizing false positives. The ABC sensors in this generation have become even more precise.
A long-lasting battery that is easy to replace
The Core 2 runs for up to 15 months in standard use on a replaceable CR3032 battery. The battery can be replaced by the user, which means the watch you choose for years will keep on going. A low-battery warning will notify you well in advance when it's time for a change. Reliable, low-maintenance power that keeps working long after most other watches would require a charger.
Connected, but true to itself
For the first time in the Core series, Bluetooth is included. Pairing with the app, syncing settings, and wireless firmware updates ensure your watch stays current for years to come, which is especially important given that Core watches are often used for nearly a decade. And because you decide when to connect, you can remain completely off the grid when the trip requires it.
Where will your thirst for adventure take you?
The Core 2 is built for those hiking trails that last longer than planned. For fishing when the pressure drops and the bite begins. For off-road expeditions that leave you out of signal range for weeks or even months. For a season in the field when the watch simply needs to keep working.
This is a watch for those who set out on a journey and understand that the best outdoor gear is the kind that doesn't get in your way.
Suunto Core 2. The unknown becomes predictable. Available now at suunto.com.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Suunto Core 2?
The Suunto Core 2 is the next generation of Suunto's outdoor watch with an altimeter, barometer, and compass. It is designed for hikers, wilderness trekkers, anglers, and travelers who need reliable navigation and weather forecasting tools powered by a long-lasting, user-replaceable battery.
When is the Suunto Core 2 released?
The Suunto Core 2 goes on sale in July 2026 and will be available worldwide at suunto.com and through official Suunto dealers.
How does the Suunto Core 2 differ from the original Core?
The Core 2 improves upon the original model with a brighter matrix LED display, switchable red and green backlight, improved ABC sensors, 10 ATM water resistance, MIL-STD-810H durability, moon phase display, a step counter, and Bluetooth support, all running on a long-lasting, replaceable CR3032 battery. The recognizable look of the ABC watch has been preserved and refined.
Does the Suunto Core 2 have GPS or smart features?
The Core 2 is a specialized outdoor watch with ABC functions. It connects to the Suunto app via Bluetooth for syncing and firmware updates, remaining a reliable field tool rather than a GPS navigator or a smartwatch.
