The Fenix 7 Pro is available here: amzn.to/3OzfadV The Epix Gen 2 Pro is also available now: amzn.to/3OALNb5 These are links to to 51mm version of each watch on Amazon. The 51mm replaced the 'X' size of the Fenix 7. There was no 'X' of the Epix Gen 2 before the Pro version came out so this size is new for the Epix. These are affiliate links to Amazon at no additional cost to you.
Glad your videos popped up in my recommendations recently and that I subscribed. I've been a fan of Garmin products since my Forerunner 201 that I attached to my bike back in the day. I don't like to buy my Garmins until they are about 10-12 months old so they can work out the firmware bugs, so your long term videos are helpful.
Thanks for your feedback. I trust Garmin and find them very reliable, Over the years they have made some terrific products and their customer support has bee very good. I know not everyone has the same view or experience but that is how I find them. For recent releases I have ordered products at their time of release. I bought the Fenix 7X, the Edge 1040 Solar and the Varia radar/camera units within days of their launch being announced. This does mean I can do these long term reviews sooner than most. I might do some short videos on the recent firmware upgrades for the Edge 1040 and the RCT715 as they have fixed a number of bugs. More videos to come, appreciate the comment.
@@ThisIsJulianC Epix Gen 2 Sapphire. Came on sale (new) at £549. I play Golf and do Gym plus wanted more health monitors. Nearly bought the S70 but the Epix offered so much more
Great video! You’ve nailed it on the solar issue as it is not much of a game changer at all on the Fenix watches (although definitely effective on the Instinct watches)
Thanks for the feedback. Solar is becoming a core competence of Garmin's technology which is great to see. I agree with you that this is well demonstrated on the latest Instinct 2 Solar watch. I'll do a video soon on the Garmin Edge 1040 bike computer which has Solar and there, like the Instinct 2 Solar, it is already reaping benefits.
Thanks for this video and a spot-on summary. Straps: the Ultrafit straps make the 7X much more comfortable! I use a 7X sapphire solar variant and I hope Garmin is cautious about bringing AMOLED to the Fenix range in the future: I really appreciate 2-3 weeks between charges! I hope Garmin keep a place for watches that prioritise battery performance. Also, MIP is excellent in snowy environments and bright sunshine, and at night an AMOLED screen can be far too bright, and I suspect Garmin did not refresh the Marq Commander because of this.
Thanks for the feedback on the video. I only desire the AMOLED screen of the Epix when I compare it next to the MIP screen on my Fenix, for the other 99% of the day the Fenix screen does everything I need
Glad I found this video and your channel, well spoken! I've had a Fenix 7X Solar Sapphire since last year and love it for all the same reasons you stated... but that display, ugh. It has this opacity and these reflections that my previous F6X Pro Solar, F5X Plus, F3 and F2 never had and I've just gotten tired of it. I know it must be the addition of the sapphire. SO, I ordered a Fenix 7X Solar (non-sapphire) like yours to compare and I really can tell a noticeable difference in the lack of reflections and improved screen clarity. Its silly for me to keep both, so I'll probably sell my F7X SS, but I have 3 concerns: 1) scratching the non-titanium bezel... I'm active and rough on watches, yet my F7X SS is still in perfect condition. 2) scratching the non-sapphire crystal 3) smaller 16GB memory capacity... I keep about 400 songs on the watch, as well as Garmin's topoactive maps of NA, with all of this, I've only got about 1-2 GB free on the 7X solar, vs 17-18 GB on the 7X SS. After a year, with your F7X solar, have you run into any noticeable issues with these three worries of mine? 🤔
Thanks for the feedback, it helps me a lot for future videos. My thoughts on your three concerns: (1) My Fenix 7x Solar has a stainless steel bezel, the Sapphire version has a bezel made of titanium. Titanium is known to show scratches more readily than stainless steel, this is the trade off for titanium being lighter. I am active and I wear my 7x Solar 24/7, I only remove it for showering, charging it and when doing any DIY (painting etc) in the house. I do not baby my watch but I am surprised how good the bezel looks after one year, I would have expected it to be more scratched by now. As you see in the video the Epix Gen 2 looks much worse. I cannot explain why but this is a real use case example, the Epix bezel is described by Garmin as passivated stainless steel. (2)My 7x non-sapphire glass looks better than my iPhone screen does after a similar amount of time. I figure that I am more likely to break the watch glass through an impact (hitting a door handle as I pass it, or falling off my bike!) in that case the spec of the glass will not make a lot of difference, it will still break. The trade off of potentially worse scratch resistance compared to the clearer display led me to the non-sapphire. (3) I do not use Garmin music so I cannot say much about the memory use. If you have maps and music and still have 1-2GB free that is approx 10% of the available memory which might be enough. You need to keep some memory free for update files and recording workout data etc. I would expect that 1-2GB free will cover that. FWIW I would sell the Sapphire based on your comments. Hope this helps
@@ThisIsJulianC Thanks! That reinforces my thoughts exactly! One Fenix 7x SS for sale... P.S. Seeing some early rumors online about the potential for Fenix 8 possibly in September. This will be interesting!
The Garmin Forerunner 955 was replaced by the Forerunner 965 recently.... main difference was the addition of the AMOLED screen. The 955 was only a year old, if that. So yes, maybe a Fenix 8 is coming later this year
I’ve had my Apple Watch Ultra for a couple months now. I love it but I do very much miss my Garmin Epix Gen. 2. One thing I don’t hear talked about enough is Apple’s lack of native topo mapping which pains me the most. Garmin’s onboard maps are super refined and wonderful to use and I love how they are readily available during outdoor hike workouts. Oh! And being able to navigate through a Garmin with touchscreen disabled unlike with my AWU… rainy days suck now 😔
Did you keep or sell the Epix Gen 2? If you kept it, maybe use it for hikes and other outdoor activities? I love my Apple devices but I am not ready to take the plunge with the Apple Watch, even the Ultra. Let me know how you are getting on with it maybe in a few more months!
@@ThisIsJulianC I returned my Garmin to Amazon. Even though I’ve had the AWU only for a couple months, it is essentially just an Apple watch, and I’ve had Apple watches for years now. The Epix was incredible, I just felt like it offered so much that I didn’t use while I was missing so much that I had become accustomed to with Apple watches. Being able to actually process emails and texts rather than just dismiss them and benefit from Apple watch’s thorough integration with my phone all became so fluid in my day-to-day that I had to go back. That said, I love them both and I plan on buying the Epix again soon actually to have both.
Thanks! You could sell the Epix gen 2 and get an Epix Pro 51mm.... the style is very close to the Fenix 7X and has the amoled display so you get both the looks of the Fenix and the display of the Epix in one :-)
Very well stated. I agree with pretty much everything you just said. I do believe that the magic number for Garmin to get to with an AMOLED screen is a week plus of battery life with always on display on. I can't imagine losing my always on display and also going back to charging my watch more than once a week. Even with fast charging, It's just one more thing to remember to charge. Life's too short. I'm trying to remove things to remember, not add. Also, if they can find a display tech that combines the benefits of both AMOLED and MIP, that would be an absolute advantage. Being able to have the high visibility outside while also having the AMOLED inside and still having always on display. The first company to figure that out will smash sales. Especially if Apple figures it out first. Because if Apple figures it out, there won't be much reason for people to use Garmin unless they are not apple users
Thanks for the feedback. AMOLED plus a week of battery would be a great milestone. I do like the LCD MIP clarity (and low power use) of the Fenix but if there was an option for a Fenix with AMOLED, 7 day battery and the looks of the Fenix 7x then it would be super compelling. In reality they are pretty much there with the Epix Gen 2 but the styling for me was too muted compared to the Fenix. And if many Fenix users do need the 20+ day battery life (I am yet to find any that do but Garmin will have done the research so they must exist) then there will still be a market for a LCD/MIP display watch in their range.
It looks like with the new Watch 10 OS Apple is adding better BLE support for sensors such as cadence and speed sensors on a bike. Not power meters (I dont think so anyway). I cannot see Apple going the Ant+ route at this stage, the market has already moved towards BLE, even though there are many benefits to Ant+ still over BLE it is more seen as a Garmin spec, I cannot imagine Apple would want to consider adding that to their Ultra.
An apple user turned on to Garmin when I looked Garmin up I was sold. They are the best and put the right options first for anyone training. It is easy to make compromises for better sales. Garmin is and has set the bar. Fenix 6 sapphire here.
Great review! I have both and prefer the look of the Fenix 7x. The flashlight is a feature I use many times each day - essential for night running! I do find the Epix screen easier to read as my eyesight deteriorates 😂. I tend to alternate between the two.
This was such, SUCH a great video. Polished, mature and right to the point. Also, extremely relatable and I agree with all of your points. First, thank you for taking the time to share this and second, I would love to hear your thoughts on if you think Garmin will continue to make the MIP screens that we all have and love. Like you, I don't think the AMOLED is a look that fits me. I had the F7 Pro for a week and decided on the 955 Solar (lighter and honestly I think just looks better on me). I love it, but I hate this sinking feeling like I just spent money on something that is just going to die out in a few years. Makes me think I should return it (while I still can) and just force myself to make the change to AMOLED now and move on. Last, have you or your wife noticed any burn in on her watch with the AOD?
Thanks for the comments and the feedback on the video. My view is that Garmin will roll out AMOLED to more devices so they can be seen to be competing with AW Ultra. They probably see that they have no choice. The true market for a MIP screen for people who really want MIP is probably much smaller than their sales of MIPs watches today. If you think the Forerunner looks better on you then perhaps a good choice. I dislike that I have to tighten the Fenix strap so much when I go running just to stop it moving around on my wrist due to the bulk and weight. It also impacts the HR sensor too. I am more frustrated with this now than I was when I made this video :-) The Forerunner range has never given me that problem. I believe Garmin will kill MIP screen technology in the next 1-2 years by merging the Fenix and Epix into one watch range. The recent Pro launches that added a larger Epix makes the Epix more compelling already. Or they could reposition the Fenix brand to be more of a niche outdoor/tough/cool looking action watch with enough solar power capability to make wired charging unnecessary. They have achieved this already with the Instinct 2X that Garmin claims never needs charging due to the solar capability, however the power needs of a Fenix are higher so perhaps the tech isn't ready yet to do the same for Fenix. For that to be successful they will need to encourage existing athlete users of the Fenix watches to switch to Epix, or back to Forerunner. Thats risky when there is an Apple Watch Ultra out there too. We have no experience or indications of burn-in with the Epix AMOLED screen, all looking good. Thanks again for the feedback - appreciated. You have some awesome images on your channel - great photography work
@@ThisIsJulianC Thank you so, so much for this reply. This makes sense to me as well. I wish they listed out the different product lines on their annual K1 report, but I don't think it does. Anyway, last night I went back to the local Garmin store here in Miami, and took a look at both the 965 and the Epix Pro. Long story short, I left with the Epix Pro. 47mm. I figure I have nothing to loose to give them a shot. (30-day returns). I figure it will only take me about 3 days to make a solid decision. So far, the battery drain on the Epix Pro has been on par (even less during the 3-mi run I did this morning) than the 955 Solar. Granted, I am using AOD so, I expect (know) that will be a different story. But, still.. charging every few days should be fine. Today, with the bright South Florida sun was a good test to this display. I have already concluded that what I have done here, is trade the outdoor natural visibility of the MIP for incredible visibility in all other aspects (indoors). When I look at my day to day, I am inside more than out, LOL. So.. it does become a compelling option, no matter how much I love the MIP when in the sun. I figured switching now and adapting would be better than waiting and holding on to something that is already a year old. Currently is / was a great time to buy as the hardware just got refreshed, so in my mind I am good for another 5 - 6 years, lol. So far the AMOLED is amazing. I was able to see it fine on the run in the sun and when I got back, I did a 40min session for strength training and it was super nice in that situation. I also think I will have better flexibility for anything early am and later in the day as the sun maybe going down. Lasy, the AOD is SO cool at night, LOL. So, while I miss the MIP for daytime driving, the AMOLED is really cool at night. So, yeah I see only battery life and possible screen burn in as possible drawbacks. If both are okay, then this should be a great long term investment, and most importantly keeps me motivated to push forward as we get older. Some how my "luxury" watches just dont do it for me anymore and they sit in the fancy case on the dresser. :-(
@@travisharrisphotography As you got the Epix Pro the battery got an upgrade, or at least the 51mm X size did so you might see a solid battery life even with the new display. Will be interested in your take on the AMOLED screen in a few days once you have spent time with it, sounds like you are a convert from MIP to AMOLED in one day :-) so maybe if/when I do the same I will see the same difference. I posted a video a day or so ago on the Fenix 7 Pro vs the Apple Watch Ultra now that the WatchOS 10 has been announced, Apple are not there yet but they are getting much closer to meeting the needs of a triathlete like me. Take a look if you like :czcams.com/video/YakFCxKa868/video.html
Really good video! I’m currently looking to upgrade my Fenix 6 solar. But not sure what Garmin to get. But there is one thing what I would like to point out. I don’t think a poor integration with an Apple phone it’s Garmin’s fault. I think Apple is protecting their watches so there is a lot of functions not available for Garmin devices on iphone. However if you would pair the Epix with an Android phone, you can use much much more functions and the watch feels more like iwatch. I wish Apple would allow this as I’m not a fan of iWatch😄
Thanks! If you have already decided to upgrade from the Fenix 6 Solar I would seriously look now at the Epix Pro. The 'X' size (51mm) has an extended battery that gets close to the Fenix in terms of battery life. On the Apple / Garmin integration you are correct - Apple limits what is accessible to third parties. The latest WatchOS however is opening up some of the limitations of the Apple Watch such as additional access for BLE sensors. I am usually an Apple FanBoy ;-) but I would still choose a Garmin watch today if I lost or broke my Fenix 7X. Let me know what you decide to upgrade with!
Garmin has these two watches at $200 off this weekend. to me this means new models! im holding off on a purchase and my instinct still does what I need it to do
The solar function on the instinct series makes it never need a charge. I’m a former bike racer, trail runner, back country athlete and search and rescue operator- and in those roles I would never take that Apple Watch seriously. I would not trust my life or the life of the people I’m trying to find to that square wrist iPad.
I've literally just bought the epix gen 2 at retail for £600 which was too good a deal to spend £999 on the epix pro. The teason i wanted the epix is basically the screen but only duento using maps. My primary usage will be hiking where navigation is probably the most important feature for me. Also yhe pro 51mm version might be great for hiking but for my 6.5 inch wtist is probably too big for daily wear - im guessing as i never tried it on. The yorch is cool but not a hig deal for me as i already hike with a far more powerful and still very compact torch anyway.
I would be lost without that Fenix 7X torch/flashlight now that I am used to it, but it is no match for a powerful flashlight if you are out hiking for sure.
The reason she has scratches is due to the fact that titanium isn't as tough as steel :) I also prefer the look, functionality and battery life of the Fenix. Hopefully they'll keep MIP screens on that series.
I have read about Coros watches but I do not know anyone that owns or uses one. The reviews make a big deal of how the buttons on a Coros will lock during workouts. I have never had a watch button accidentally press during any activity from a 5K to an Ironman regardless of brand, so I do not see that as a critical feature.
Getting a lot of questions about the rumored Fenix 7 Pro and Epix Pro (Gen 2). The specs seem to be settling down now as follows: Fenix 7 Pro - 3 sizes as before and two versions - Solar and Solar Sapphire. Improved HR sensor. Epix Pro (Gen 2) - maybe they drop the Gen 2 at this time. 3 sizes and improved HR sensor. The size options is new for the Epix. One of the reasons I chose the Fenix was the 'X' sized format. More news as it comes....
@@ThisIsJulianC It wasn't accurate for me. I would do the same course and always get a different distance. Also it just didn't sit on my wrist well at all. I tried many straps and it just felt odd on my wrist.
My understanding is that the EU regulation for enforcing the use of USB C for charging in 2024 excludes smart watches and fitness trackers, although other devices may be added in the years following the 2024 deadline for phones, laptops and tablets. The latest Forerunner 965 comes with a USB C to Garmin charge port cable at least, so they have finally dropped the USB A legacy cable.
this watch Fenix 7x or the Epix GEN 2 pro or standard...your thoughts ? they both do golf right ? biggest difference is the screens ? having a hard time choosing which Garmin watch to get....HELP ME ALL...interested in your thoughts....thx,,,,cheers from Canada
Hey there When you compare them at the largest size then yes, the display is the only true difference that is worth mentioning if golf was my main passion. If I was mainly a golfer and I wanted a Garmin watch I would choose the Epix Pro in the 51mm case size. You are correct that both the new larger Epix and the Fenix 7 / Fenix 7 Pro do golf. Golfing with a Garmin can be a lot of fun, you get a lot of info from the preloaded courses and the accurate GPS in the watch. Hope this helps - let me know what you decide!
I've never been outside and looked down at my watch and thought, I wished my sports watch had a AMOLED display.... I hate charging watches. Also, the display turning off every few seconds and turning on with gestures is horrible, for me.
Now that the Epix Pro has a 51mm version I will likely look at that whenever I need to replace my Fenix 7X. I like the MIP display but the AMOLED does look so much better in most lighting. It has to be on permanently though - agree with you, none of that display-going-to-sleep to save battery nonsense.
Yes, both have turn by turn navigation. Premium versions of apps such as AllTrails will also load route directions to Garmin Connect that then sync with the watch.
@Julian C the battery on the Enduro 2 last longer than any garmin watch a few the brightest light. The tactic or the fenix 7x can't hold a candle to it
@@ThisIsJulianC Tactix is way different from Instinct. You are probably thinking about Instinct Tactical version. Tactix is made out of premium materials like Sapphire and DLC and has all the features of Fenix plus much more.
@@Najeeg7 the battery of Enduro is crazy . The flashlight is pretty strong also , but those yellow marks around the display ruin everything. Other than that is just a Fenix 7X which by the way looks better ))))
You don't love a "feeeenix" 7X. It's an intimate object. In fact love isn't an actual thing. These are for looks. You don't "need" anything. What ever happened to a battery that last 3 years or more. Ahh solar =The Apple Watch is for looks as well. It's a big square watch that does what the original Samsung Gear S did about 10+ years ago and then cut it due to cannibalizing their market. 800 to 1000 dollars for these watches. It has GPS? Wow. It's because of looks. Your not on the Tour in cycling and not hanging from cliffs as a Ranger all day and your not a top, for money marathoner. This consuming material is for how you feel
The Fenix 7 Pro is available here: amzn.to/3OzfadV
The Epix Gen 2 Pro is also available now: amzn.to/3OALNb5
These are links to to 51mm version of each watch on Amazon. The 51mm replaced the 'X' size of the Fenix 7. There was no 'X' of the Epix Gen 2 before the Pro version came out so this size is new for the Epix. These are affiliate links to Amazon at no additional cost to you.
Glad your videos popped up in my recommendations recently and that I subscribed. I've been a fan of Garmin products since my Forerunner 201 that I attached to my bike back in the day. I don't like to buy my Garmins until they are about 10-12 months old so they can work out the firmware bugs, so your long term videos are helpful.
Thanks for your feedback. I trust Garmin and find them very reliable, Over the years they have made some terrific products and their customer support has bee very good. I know not everyone has the same view or experience but that is how I find them. For recent releases I have ordered products at their time of release. I bought the Fenix 7X, the Edge 1040 Solar and the Varia radar/camera units within days of their launch being announced. This does mean I can do these long term reviews sooner than most. I might do some short videos on the recent firmware upgrades for the Edge 1040 and the RCT715 as they have fixed a number of bugs. More videos to come, appreciate the comment.
Loved the video. I appreciate incorporating business insights on your review 👍
Thanks for the feedback
Best and most professional video I’ve seen for Garmin.. Thank you, it’s helped me make my choice
Glad it helped - what did you decide upon
@@ThisIsJulianC Epix Gen 2 Sapphire. Came on sale (new) at £549. I play Golf and do Gym plus wanted more health monitors. Nearly bought the S70 but the Epix offered so much more
I gotta say bud you have high quality content don’t let the lack of subs discourage you
Thanks for the feedback. Channel is only 9 weeks old and my first channel, happy with the progress so far
@@ThisIsJulianCyour audio quality is fantastic. I always appreciate that. Enjoying your reviews, keep it up!
@@Seanonyoutube thanks - feedback always appreciated 👍👍
Great review. Really insightful.
Thanks for the feedback!
Thanks for the detailed comparison
You are welcome
Great video! You’ve nailed it on the solar issue as it is not much of a game changer at all on the Fenix watches (although definitely effective on the Instinct watches)
Thanks for the feedback. Solar is becoming a core competence of Garmin's technology which is great to see. I agree with you that this is well demonstrated on the latest Instinct 2 Solar watch. I'll do a video soon on the Garmin Edge 1040 bike computer which has Solar and there, like the Instinct 2 Solar, it is already reaping benefits.
... The Garmin Edge 1040 Solar video is up on the channel now :-)
Thanks for this video and a spot-on summary. Straps: the Ultrafit straps make the 7X much more comfortable! I use a 7X sapphire solar variant and I hope Garmin is cautious about bringing AMOLED to the Fenix range in the future: I really appreciate 2-3 weeks between charges! I hope Garmin keep a place for watches that prioritise battery performance.
Also, MIP is excellent in snowy environments and bright sunshine, and at night an AMOLED screen can be far too bright, and I suspect Garmin did not refresh the Marq Commander because of this.
Thanks for the feedback on the video. I only desire the AMOLED screen of the Epix when I compare it next to the MIP screen on my Fenix, for the other 99% of the day the Fenix screen does everything I need
You know you can turn the brightness down on the epix
Glad I found this video and your channel, well spoken! I've had a Fenix 7X Solar Sapphire since last year and love it for all the same reasons you stated... but that display, ugh. It has this opacity and these reflections that my previous F6X Pro Solar, F5X Plus, F3 and F2 never had and I've just gotten tired of it. I know it must be the addition of the sapphire.
SO, I ordered a Fenix 7X Solar (non-sapphire) like yours to compare and I really can tell a noticeable difference in the lack of reflections and improved screen clarity. Its silly for me to keep both, so I'll probably sell my F7X SS, but I have 3 concerns:
1) scratching the non-titanium bezel... I'm active and rough on watches, yet my F7X SS is still in perfect condition.
2) scratching the non-sapphire crystal
3) smaller 16GB memory capacity... I keep about 400 songs on the watch, as well as Garmin's topoactive maps of NA, with all of this, I've only got about 1-2 GB free on the 7X solar, vs 17-18 GB on the 7X SS.
After a year, with your F7X solar, have you run into any noticeable issues with these three worries of mine? 🤔
Thanks for the feedback, it helps me a lot for future videos. My thoughts on your three concerns:
(1) My Fenix 7x Solar has a stainless steel bezel, the Sapphire version has a bezel made of titanium. Titanium is known to show scratches more readily than stainless steel, this is the trade off for titanium being lighter. I am active and I wear my 7x Solar 24/7, I only remove it for showering, charging it and when doing any DIY (painting etc) in the house. I do not baby my watch but I am surprised how good the bezel looks after one year, I would have expected it to be more scratched by now. As you see in the video the Epix Gen 2 looks much worse. I cannot explain why but this is a real use case example, the Epix bezel is described by Garmin as passivated stainless steel.
(2)My 7x non-sapphire glass looks better than my iPhone screen does after a similar amount of time. I figure that I am more likely to break the watch glass through an impact (hitting a door handle as I pass it, or falling off my bike!) in that case the spec of the glass will not make a lot of difference, it will still break. The trade off of potentially worse scratch resistance compared to the clearer display led me to the non-sapphire.
(3) I do not use Garmin music so I cannot say much about the memory use. If you have maps and music and still have 1-2GB free that is approx 10% of the available memory which might be enough. You need to keep some memory free for update files and recording workout data etc. I would expect that 1-2GB free will cover that. FWIW I would sell the Sapphire based on your comments. Hope this helps
@@ThisIsJulianC Thanks! That reinforces my thoughts exactly! One Fenix 7x SS for sale...
P.S. Seeing some early rumors online about the potential for Fenix 8 possibly in September. This will be interesting!
The Garmin Forerunner 955 was replaced by the Forerunner 965 recently.... main difference was the addition of the AMOLED screen. The 955 was only a year old, if that. So yes, maybe a Fenix 8 is coming later this year
I’ve had my Apple Watch Ultra for a couple months now. I love it but I do very much miss my Garmin Epix Gen. 2.
One thing I don’t hear talked about enough is Apple’s lack of native topo mapping which pains me the most. Garmin’s onboard maps are super refined and wonderful to use and I love how they are readily available during outdoor hike workouts.
Oh! And being able to navigate through a Garmin with touchscreen disabled unlike with my AWU… rainy days suck now 😔
Did you keep or sell the Epix Gen 2? If you kept it, maybe use it for hikes and other outdoor activities? I love my Apple devices but I am not ready to take the plunge with the Apple Watch, even the Ultra. Let me know how you are getting on with it maybe in a few more months!
@@ThisIsJulianC I returned my Garmin to Amazon. Even though I’ve had the AWU only for a couple months, it is essentially just an Apple watch, and I’ve had Apple watches for years now.
The Epix was incredible, I just felt like it offered so much that I didn’t use while I was missing so much that I had become accustomed to with Apple watches. Being able to actually process emails and texts rather than just dismiss them and benefit from Apple watch’s thorough integration with my phone all became so fluid in my day-to-day that I had to go back.
That said, I love them both and I plan on buying the Epix again soon actually to have both.
Awesome video! I have an epix but planning on getting a 7x and rotating because I miss the size and look. I’ll just switch it up based on mood.
Thanks!
You could sell the Epix gen 2 and get an Epix Pro 51mm.... the style is very close to the Fenix 7X and has the amoled display so you get both the looks of the Fenix and the display of the Epix in one :-)
Very well stated. I agree with pretty much everything you just said. I do believe that the magic number for Garmin to get to with an AMOLED screen is a week plus of battery life with always on display on.
I can't imagine losing my always on display and also going back to charging my watch more than once a week.
Even with fast charging, It's just one more thing to remember to charge. Life's too short. I'm trying to remove things to remember, not add.
Also, if they can find a display tech that combines the benefits of both AMOLED and MIP, that would be an absolute advantage. Being able to have the high visibility outside while also having the AMOLED inside and still having always on display. The first company to figure that out will smash sales. Especially if Apple figures it out first. Because if Apple figures it out, there won't be much reason for people to use Garmin unless they are not apple users
Thanks for the feedback. AMOLED plus a week of battery would be a great milestone. I do like the LCD MIP clarity (and low power use) of the Fenix but if there was an option for a Fenix with AMOLED, 7 day battery and the looks of the Fenix 7x then it would be super compelling. In reality they are pretty much there with the Epix Gen 2 but the styling for me was too muted compared to the Fenix. And if many Fenix users do need the 20+ day battery life (I am yet to find any that do but Garmin will have done the research so they must exist) then there will still be a market for a LCD/MIP display watch in their range.
" Life's too short. I'm trying to remove things to remember, not add." Love this!!
It looks like with the new Watch 10 OS Apple is adding better BLE support for sensors such as cadence and speed sensors on a bike. Not power meters (I dont think so anyway). I cannot see Apple going the Ant+ route at this stage, the market has already moved towards BLE, even though there are many benefits to Ant+ still over BLE it is more seen as a Garmin spec, I cannot imagine Apple would want to consider adding that to their Ultra.
An apple user turned on to Garmin when I looked Garmin up I was sold. They are the best and put the right options first for anyone training. It is easy to make compromises for better sales. Garmin is and has set the bar. Fenix 6 sapphire here.
Agree completely - if you are serious about working out I do not believe Apple or anyone else is close to Garmin
Great review! I have both and prefer the look of the Fenix 7x. The flashlight is a feature I use many times each day - essential for night running! I do find the Epix screen easier to read as my eyesight deteriorates 😂. I tend to alternate between the two.
Thanks for sharing! Mrs C has the Epix Gen 2 and loves it for the AMOLED display, but she has to charge it much more frequently than my Fenix 7X.
Just purchased the epix and now need validation! lol thanks for your input.
Enjoy it!
This was such, SUCH a great video. Polished, mature and right to the point. Also, extremely relatable and I agree with all of your points. First, thank you for taking the time to share this and second, I would love to hear your thoughts on if you think Garmin will continue to make the MIP screens that we all have and love. Like you, I don't think the AMOLED is a look that fits me. I had the F7 Pro for a week and decided on the 955 Solar (lighter and honestly I think just looks better on me). I love it, but I hate this sinking feeling like I just spent money on something that is just going to die out in a few years. Makes me think I should return it (while I still can) and just force myself to make the change to AMOLED now and move on. Last, have you or your wife noticed any burn in on her watch with the AOD?
Thanks for the comments and the feedback on the video. My view is that Garmin will roll out AMOLED to more devices so they can be seen to be competing with AW Ultra. They probably see that they have no choice. The true market for a MIP screen for people who really want MIP is probably much smaller than their sales of MIPs watches today.
If you think the Forerunner looks better on you then perhaps a good choice. I dislike that I have to tighten the Fenix strap so much when I go running just to stop it moving around on my wrist due to the bulk and weight. It also impacts the HR sensor too. I am more frustrated with this now than I was when I made this video :-) The Forerunner range has never given me that problem.
I believe Garmin will kill MIP screen technology in the next 1-2 years by merging the Fenix and Epix into one watch range. The recent Pro launches that added a larger Epix makes the Epix more compelling already. Or they could reposition the Fenix brand to be more of a niche outdoor/tough/cool looking action watch with enough solar power capability to make wired charging unnecessary. They have achieved this already with the Instinct 2X that Garmin claims never needs charging due to the solar capability, however the power needs of a Fenix are higher so perhaps the tech isn't ready yet to do the same for Fenix.
For that to be successful they will need to encourage existing athlete users of the Fenix watches to switch to Epix, or back to Forerunner. Thats risky when there is an Apple Watch Ultra out there too.
We have no experience or indications of burn-in with the Epix AMOLED screen, all looking good.
Thanks again for the feedback - appreciated. You have some awesome images on your channel - great photography work
@@ThisIsJulianC Thank you so, so much for this reply. This makes sense to me as well. I wish they listed out the different product lines on their annual K1 report, but I don't think it does. Anyway, last night I went back to the local Garmin store here in Miami, and took a look at both the 965 and the Epix Pro. Long story short, I left with the Epix Pro. 47mm. I figure I have nothing to loose to give them a shot. (30-day returns). I figure it will only take me about 3 days to make a solid decision. So far, the battery drain on the Epix Pro has been on par (even less during the 3-mi run I did this morning) than the 955 Solar. Granted, I am using AOD so, I expect (know) that will be a different story. But, still.. charging every few days should be fine. Today, with the bright South Florida sun was a good test to this display. I have already concluded that what I have done here, is trade the outdoor natural visibility of the MIP for incredible visibility in all other aspects (indoors). When I look at my day to day, I am inside more than out, LOL. So.. it does become a compelling option, no matter how much I love the MIP when in the sun. I figured switching now and adapting would be better than waiting and holding on to something that is already a year old. Currently is / was a great time to buy as the hardware just got refreshed, so in my mind I am good for another 5 - 6 years, lol. So far the AMOLED is amazing. I was able to see it fine on the run in the sun and when I got back, I did a 40min session for strength training and it was super nice in that situation. I also think I will have better flexibility for anything early am and later in the day as the sun maybe going down. Lasy, the AOD is SO cool at night, LOL. So, while I miss the MIP for daytime driving, the AMOLED is really cool at night. So, yeah I see only battery life and possible screen burn in as possible drawbacks. If both are okay, then this should be a great long term investment, and most importantly keeps me motivated to push forward as we get older. Some how my "luxury" watches just dont do it for me anymore and they sit in the fancy case on the dresser. :-(
@@travisharrisphotography As you got the Epix Pro the battery got an upgrade, or at least the 51mm X size did so you might see a solid battery life even with the new display. Will be interested in your take on the AMOLED screen in a few days once you have spent time with it, sounds like you are a convert from MIP to AMOLED in one day :-) so maybe if/when I do the same I will see the same difference. I posted a video a day or so ago on the Fenix 7 Pro vs the Apple Watch Ultra now that the WatchOS 10 has been announced, Apple are not there yet but they are getting much closer to meeting the needs of a triathlete like me. Take a look if you like :czcams.com/video/YakFCxKa868/video.html
Really good video! I’m currently looking to upgrade my Fenix 6 solar. But not sure what Garmin to get. But there is one thing what I would like to point out. I don’t think a poor integration with an Apple phone it’s Garmin’s fault. I think Apple is protecting their watches so there is a lot of functions not available for Garmin devices on iphone. However if you would pair the Epix with an Android phone, you can use much much more functions and the watch feels more like iwatch.
I wish Apple would allow this as I’m not a fan of iWatch😄
Thanks! If you have already decided to upgrade from the Fenix 6 Solar I would seriously look now at the Epix Pro. The 'X' size (51mm) has an extended battery that gets close to the Fenix in terms of battery life.
On the Apple / Garmin integration you are correct - Apple limits what is accessible to third parties. The latest WatchOS however is opening up some of the limitations of the Apple Watch such as additional access for BLE sensors.
I am usually an Apple FanBoy ;-) but I would still choose a Garmin watch today if I lost or broke my Fenix 7X.
Let me know what you decide to upgrade with!
Garmin has these two watches at $200 off this weekend. to me this means new models! im holding off on a purchase and my instinct still does what I need it to do
There is a rumor of a Fenix 7 Pro and an Epix Gen 2 Pro on the horizon......
i looooove my 7x
Me too :-)
The solar function on the instinct series makes it never need a charge. I’m a former bike racer, trail runner, back country athlete and search and rescue operator- and in those roles I would never take that Apple Watch seriously. I would not trust my life or the life of the people I’m trying to find to that square wrist iPad.
Good to know about the Instinct - thanks
I've literally just bought the epix gen 2 at retail for £600 which was too good a deal to spend £999 on the epix pro. The teason i wanted the epix is basically the screen but only duento using maps. My primary usage will be hiking where navigation is probably the most important feature for me. Also yhe pro 51mm version might be great for hiking but for my 6.5 inch wtist is probably too big for daily wear - im guessing as i never tried it on. The yorch is cool but not a hig deal for me as i already hike with a far more powerful and still very compact torch anyway.
I would be lost without that Fenix 7X torch/flashlight now that I am used to it, but it is no match for a powerful flashlight if you are out hiking for sure.
Display and smooth UI
It is certainly much improved from prior versions of both of these watches, but the Epix Gen 2 has the Fenix beat for overall display and UI for sure.
The reason she has scratches is due to the fact that titanium isn't as tough as steel :) I also prefer the look, functionality and battery life of the Fenix. Hopefully they'll keep MIP screens on that series.
Here’s hoping! 👍
I plan to upgrade my Garmin watch but I saw there are many athletes wearing Coros. Is Garmin still the king? What do you think of Coros?
I have read about Coros watches but I do not know anyone that owns or uses one. The reviews make a big deal of how the buttons on a Coros will lock during workouts. I have never had a watch button accidentally press during any activity from a 5K to an Ironman regardless of brand, so I do not see that as a critical feature.
Getting a lot of questions about the rumored Fenix 7 Pro and Epix Pro (Gen 2). The specs seem to be settling down now as follows:
Fenix 7 Pro - 3 sizes as before and two versions - Solar and Solar Sapphire. Improved HR sensor.
Epix Pro (Gen 2) - maybe they drop the Gen 2 at this time. 3 sizes and improved HR sensor. The size options is new for the Epix. One of the reasons I chose the Fenix was the 'X' sized format.
More news as it comes....
I actually just switch from Apple Watch Ultra back to the Garmin Epix G2. Had the Fenix 6 Pro Solar prior tot he AW.
I know a few people who have done the same and gone back to Garmin after trying AWU.
@@ThisIsJulianC It wasn't accurate for me. I would do the same course and always get a different distance. Also it just didn't sit on my wrist well at all. I tried many straps and it just felt odd on my wrist.
hello, is it possible to make the background screen white in the epix 2 just like in the fenix?
I do not believe so.
As you say so many models and they will have to drop or refresh them all by the end if 2024 for usbc
My understanding is that the EU regulation for enforcing the use of USB C for charging in 2024 excludes smart watches and fitness trackers, although other devices may be added in the years following the 2024 deadline for phones, laptops and tablets. The latest Forerunner 965 comes with a USB C to Garmin charge port cable at least, so they have finally dropped the USB A legacy cable.
this watch Fenix 7x or the Epix GEN 2 pro or standard...your thoughts ? they both do golf right ? biggest difference is the screens ? having a hard time choosing which Garmin watch to get....HELP ME ALL...interested in your thoughts....thx,,,,cheers from Canada
Hey there
When you compare them at the largest size then yes, the display is the only true difference that is worth mentioning if golf was my main passion. If I was mainly a golfer and I wanted a Garmin watch I would choose the Epix Pro in the 51mm case size. You are correct that both the new larger Epix and the Fenix 7 / Fenix 7 Pro do golf. Golfing with a Garmin can be a lot of fun, you get a lot of info from the preloaded courses and the accurate GPS in the watch. Hope this helps - let me know what you decide!
I just bought the epix2 today with big sale , is it still worth it comparing to the epix pro ? Or Apple Watch ultra?
Depends really on the price you paid, but the Epix Gen 2 is still a very capable watch
I've never been outside and looked down at my watch and thought, I wished my sports watch had a AMOLED display.... I hate charging watches.
Also, the display turning off every few seconds and turning on with gestures is horrible, for me.
Now that the Epix Pro has a 51mm version I will likely look at that whenever I need to replace my Fenix 7X. I like the MIP display but the AMOLED does look so much better in most lighting. It has to be on permanently though - agree with you, none of that display-going-to-sleep to save battery nonsense.
I'm waiting for X version of epix
Maybe that will be the Fenix 8x....
Garmin needs to increase the accuracy of it's health sensors.
Which ones? What issues do you see?
I am the Epix type of guy.
Good choice #thumbsup. What leads you to the Epix, is it the screen?
Navigation?
Yes, both have turn by turn navigation. Premium versions of apps such as AllTrails will also load route directions to Garmin Connect that then sync with the watch.
The Enduro 2 is the best garmin watch ever made
Not Tactix 7 Pro ? ))))
What do you thin of the Tactix? I always thought it looked super cool but never tried one out. Reminded me of some of the cooler G-Shocks
@Julian C the battery on the Enduro 2 last longer than any garmin watch a few the brightest light. The tactic or the fenix 7x can't hold a candle to it
@@ThisIsJulianC Tactix is way different from Instinct. You are probably thinking about Instinct Tactical version. Tactix is made out of premium materials like Sapphire and DLC and has all the features of Fenix plus much more.
@@Najeeg7 the battery of Enduro is crazy . The flashlight is pretty strong also , but those yellow marks around the display ruin everything. Other than that is just a Fenix 7X which by the way looks better ))))
Fenix >> Epix
You don't love a "feeeenix" 7X. It's an intimate object. In fact love isn't an actual thing. These are for looks. You don't "need" anything. What ever happened to a battery that last 3 years or more. Ahh solar =The Apple Watch is for looks as well. It's a big square watch that does what the original Samsung Gear S did about 10+ years ago and then cut it due to cannibalizing their market. 800 to 1000 dollars for these watches. It has GPS? Wow. It's because of looks. Your not on the Tour in cycling and not hanging from cliffs as a Ranger all day and your not a top, for money marathoner. This consuming material is for how you feel
What you are describing is the power of marketing, packaging something so people desire it and want it, even if it’s not always something new