SplitCue vs Runna
Two running apps with voice coaching — but built for different kinds of runners.
Overview
SplitCue is an interval training app with real-time voice pace coaching, a flexible custom workout builder, and an AI workout generator. You build or generate individual workouts and SplitCue coaches you through them with audio cues.
Runna is a structured training plan app. You choose a race distance and goal, and Runna generates a multi-week training program with daily workouts. Each workout includes voice guidance during the run. It's designed to take you from where you are to race day.
The key difference: SplitCue gives you freedom to build any workout you want. Runna gives you a coach-designed plan and tells you what to do each day.
Feature Comparison
| Feature | SplitCue | Runna |
|---|---|---|
| Custom interval workouts | Yes — fully customizable blocks, repeats, labels, effort, target pace | No — workouts are plan-generated, not user-built |
| Structured training plans | No — SplitCue is workout-by-workout | Yes — multi-week plans for 5K through marathon with progressive overload |
| Voice coaching during runs | Yes — interval transitions, pace announcements, countdown warnings | Yes — guided audio during workouts |
| Voice pace announcements | Yes — configurable frequency (15s–120s) with GPS smoothing | Pace feedback during runs, less configurable |
| AI workout builder | Yes — describe any workout in plain English | Workouts are algorithmically generated as part of plans |
| Built-in presets | 11 presets (5K Speed, Tempo, Fartlek, Hill Repeats, Run/Walk, etc.) | Workouts are part of plans, not standalone presets |
| Adaptive training | No — workouts don't auto-adjust based on performance | Yes — plans adapt based on your feedback and progress |
| Race goal pacing | Target pace per interval, but no race-day pacing strategy | Plans are built around your goal race time |
| Watch integration | Phone only | Garmin, Apple Watch, others |
| Price | Free with optional premium | Subscription required (~$15–20/month) |
| Platforms | iOS | iOS and Android |
Where Runna Is Better
Runna is the stronger choice if you want a coach telling you what to do every day:
- Complete training plans. Runna builds an entire training block — from base building through taper — for any race distance. SplitCue handles individual workouts, not multi-week periodization.
- Adaptive progression. Runna adjusts your plan based on how runs go. SplitCue doesn't automatically progress your training.
- Race-specific preparation. Runna's plans are built around your goal race time and adjust paces accordingly across all workout types.
- Watch integration. Runna pushes workouts to Garmin and Apple Watch. SplitCue is phone-only.
- Expert-designed programming. Runna's plans are built by running coaches with structured periodization.
Where SplitCue Is Better
SplitCue is the better choice if you want control over your own workouts:
- Full workout customization. Build any interval structure you can imagine — any number of blocks, any durations, any labels, any repeats. Runna's workouts are plan-generated and not user-editable in the same way.
- Configurable pace announcements. Hear your pace every 15–120 seconds with adjustable GPS smoothing. Much more control than Runna's audio feedback.
- AI workout generation. Describe a workout in natural language and get a structured plan. Useful for one-off sessions or creative training.
- Free to use. SplitCue's core features are free. Runna requires a subscription that typically costs $15–20/month.
- No commitment required. SplitCue is good for runners who don't want a rigid training plan but still want structured workouts with voice coaching.
When to Use Which
Use Runna if you're training for a specific race and want a structured, adaptive training plan that tells you exactly what to do each day. Especially valuable for runners new to structured training or preparing for their first race at a given distance.
Use SplitCue if you prefer building your own workouts, want granular control over interval timing and audio feedback, or want a free tool for structured speed work without committing to a training plan subscription.
Some runners use Runna for their overall plan structure and SplitCue for custom speed sessions that go beyond what the plan provides.