Choosing the right pace clock for your swimming needs involves balancing visibility, functionality, and durability. The ACCUSPLIT AX850 stands out with its large 15-inch display, perfect for indoor pools or training environments where clear visibility from a distance is key. Meanwhile, the Swimnerd Pace Clock offers a highly visible LED screen suitable for outdoor pools, with wireless features and app control that appeal to tech-savvy swimmers and coaches. Both options excel in different scenarios, but their tradeoffs—such as limited features on the AX850 or setup complexity with the Swimnerd—are important to consider before making your choice.
Get pool and patio gear delivered free — and shop member deals
- Fast, free delivery on millions of items
- Access to Prime Big Deal Days deals on October 6–7
- Prime Video, Amazon Music and more included
Complete the kit
Key Takeaways
- The ACCUSPLIT AX850 excels in simplicity and large display, ideal for indoor use.
- Swimnerd Pace Clock offers wireless syncing and mobile app control, suited for outdoor and high-tech setups.
- Both clocks prioritize visibility but differ in features like alarms, countdowns, and connectivity.
- Setup complexity varies: the AX850 is straightforward, while the Swimnerd requires mounting and app configuration.
- Choosing depends on environment, desired features, and comfort with technology.
| ACCUSPLIT AX850 Lane Timer/Pace Clock, Blue, 15-Inch |  | Best for simplicity and indoor visibility | Size: 15 inches | Color: Blue | Function: Lane timer/Pace clock | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Pace Clock: Swimming’s #1 Pace Clock |  | Best for outdoor use and wireless management | Display Size: 9 inches | Connectivity: Bluetooth, 2.4 GHz wireless | Waterproofing: Water, humidity, and harsh condition resistant coating | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| pool pace clock | Size | Color | Function | Resolution |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| ACCUSPLIT AX850 Lane Timer/Pac | 15 inches | Blue | Lane timer/Pace clock | 1 second |
| Pace Clock: Swimming’s #1 Pace | — | — | — | — |
More Details on Our Top Picks
ACCUSPLIT AX850 Lane Timer/Pace Clock, Blue, 15-Inch
The ACCUSPLIT AX850 is an excellent choice for those seeking a straightforward, large-display pace clock. Its 15-inch screen provides clear visibility from across the pool, making it ideal for indoor training environments. The push button start/stop is intuitive, and the 1-second resolution up to 60 minutes covers most swim training needs. Compared with high-tech models, it lacks features like countdowns, alarms, or wireless connectivity, which might be a drawback for advanced users. Still, its simplicity makes it reliable and easy to operate in busy swim gyms.
Pros:- Large 15-inch display for excellent visibility
- Simple push button start/stop
- Reliable and easy to operate
Cons:- Limited to count-up timing only
- No countdown or alarm features
- No wireless or app connectivity
Best for: Swimmers and coaches who need a large, easy-to-read clock with basic timing functions for indoor pools.
Not ideal for: Users looking for advanced features like wireless sync, countdown timers, or app control.
- Size:15 inches
- Color:Blue
- Function:Lane timer/Pace clock
- Resolution:1 second
- Maximum time:60 minutes
Our verdict“A solid, no-fuss pace clock best suited for indoor training environments where visibility is paramount.”
Pace Clock: Swimming’s #1 Pace Clock
The Swimnerd Pace Clock is designed with outdoor swimming and high-tech management in mind. Its 9-inch LED display is highly visible up to 100 meters, making it ideal for outdoor pools or large training areas. The wireless sync and mobile app control add a layer of convenience, allowing multiple clocks to be managed remotely and customized for various workout routines. However, it requires mounting with screws, which are not included, and the setup process can be complex for some users unfamiliar with app configurations. Its waterproof coating ensures durability against pool elements, but its feature set is more suited for advanced users who want integrated management tools.
Pros:- Large, highly visible LED display
- Wireless sync for easy management of multiple clocks
- Waterproof and durable in pool conditions
- Mobile app control for custom programming
Cons:- Requires mounting with screws (not included)
- Setup and app configuration can be complex
- Limited to swimming and training environments
Best for: Outdoor pools, coaches managing multiple clocks, and users comfortable with app-based controls.
Not ideal for: Indoor pools without mounting options or those preferring plug-and-play simplicity.
- Display Size:9 inches
- Connectivity:Bluetooth, 2.4 GHz wireless
- Waterproofing:Water, humidity, and harsh condition resistant coating
- Dimensions:30 x 2.5 x 12 inches
- Weight:Less than 10 lbs
- Power:AC 110~240V
Our verdict“A versatile, tech-forward option perfect for outdoor use and managing multiple clocks in a professional setting.”
How We Picked
We selected these pace clocks based on their visibility, durability, ease of use, and feature set tailored specifically for swimming and training environments. The large display size was a key factor, as well as connectivity options for managing multiple clocks remotely. We also considered user feedback on setup, reliability, and suitability for both indoor and outdoor pools. Our goal was to identify options that balance core timing needs with practical tradeoffs, helping swimmers and coaches find the best fit for their specific settings.
Factors to Consider When Choosing Pool Pace Clocks
Selecting the right pool pace clock depends on your environment, desired features, and how much complexity you’re willing to manage. Key considerations include visibility in your pool setting, whether you need wireless or app control, and if durability against outdoor conditions matters. Understanding these factors helps narrow down options that will serve your training needs effectively.Display Size and Visibility
The primary function of a pace clock is to be easily seen from a distance. Indoor pools benefit from larger displays, such as the 15-inch AX850, which provides clarity across the lane. For outdoor pools, a bright LED, like the Swimnerd’s 9-inch display, ensures visibility even in bright sunlight. Consider your pool size and ambient lighting when choosing display size and brightness.
Connectivity and Smart Features
If managing multiple clocks or integrating with training apps is important, models like the Swimnerd Pace Clock offer wireless syncing and remote control via a mobile app. These features add flexibility but come with setup complexity and higher costs. Simpler models like the AX850 focus on straightforward timing without the need for technology management, making them more reliable but less feature-rich.
Durability and Environment Suitability
Outdoor pools demand weather-resistant and waterproof clocks. The Swimnerd is built with a waterproof coating and durable construction, while the AX850 is designed mainly for indoor use. Assess your pool environment; outdoor setups benefit from waterproof and rugged models to avoid damage and ensure longevity.
Ease of Use and Setup
Simplicity can be a deciding factor. The AX850 offers plug-and-play operation with minimal setup. Conversely, the Swimnerd requires mounting and app configuration, which may intimidate less tech-savvy users. Balance your comfort with technology against your need for advanced features.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the main difference between these two pace clocks?
The primary difference lies in their design focus: the ACCUSPLIT AX850 emphasizes straightforward visibility with a large display suitable for indoor environments, while the Swimnerd Pace Clock offers wireless management, app control, and outdoor durability, targeting more advanced and outdoor swimming setups.
Can I use these clocks outdoors?
Yes, the Swimnerd Pace Clock is specifically built for outdoor use with waterproofing and weather-resistant features. The AX850 is mainly intended for indoor pools, and exposure to outdoor elements could damage it or impair its visibility.
Are these clocks easy to set up?
The AX850 offers a simple, plug-and-play setup with minimal fuss. In contrast, the Swimnerd Pace Clock requires mounting and app configuration, which might be more time-consuming but offers greater customization and control once completed.
Do these clocks support countdown timers?
The AX850 focuses on count-up timing only, which is sufficient for many training scenarios. The Swimnerd Pace Clock can be programmed via the app for various workout routines, including countdowns, providing more flexibility for advanced training programs.
Which clock is better for beginner swimmers?
For beginners or casual training, the ACCUSPLIT AX850 is a better choice due to its simplicity and straightforward operation. The Swimnerd Pace Clock offers more advanced features that may be overwhelming for users unfamiliar with technology or complex setup procedures.
Conclusion
For indoor swim training or environments where large, clear visibility is paramount, the ACCUSPLIT AX850 provides a reliable, easy-to-use solution without the complexity of wireless features. Conversely, if you manage outdoor pools, need to coordinate multiple clocks, or want integrated app control, the Swimnerd Pace Clock stands out as a versatile, durable choice. Beginners who favor simplicity should lean towards the AX850, while tech-savvy coaches and outdoor pool operators may find the Swimnerd more aligned with their needs.
Fall Picks
fall essentials
As an affiliate, we earn on qualifying purchases.
