Garmin Fenix

Review Score
85%
πŸ… Highly Rated
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Garmin Fenix: Review

β€œA multisport watch with advanced tracking and solar charging capabilities.”

Overview


The Garmin Fenix is a multisport watch designed to cater to the needs of serious athletes and adventurers. This watch is known for its robust build and advanced features, making it a reliable companion for various outdoor activities.

Key Features:

  • AMOLED Display: Offers vibrant and clear visuals, even in direct sunlight.
  • Solar Charging: Extends battery life by harnessing solar energy, ideal for long outdoor expeditions.
  • Advanced Training Features: Includes personalized workout plans and multisport tracking capabilities.

The Garmin Fenix is an ideal choice for athletes who prioritize durability and advanced tracking features for intense training sessions. Its solar charging capability offers extended battery life, making it suitable for long-distance adventures.

According to our analysis of reviews from experts around the world, it averages a review score of 85%. This puts it in the highest rated 20% of comparable running watches. According to our analysis of prices across the internet, at current rates it's in the most expensive 10% of running watches.

Verdict

The consensus on the Garmin Fenix


The Garmin Fenix is a top-tier multisport watch that excels in providing comprehensive tracking and navigation features. Its AMOLED display ensures clear visibility, while the solar charging option significantly extends battery life, making it suitable for long outdoor activities. The watch's advanced training features, such as personalized workout plans and multisport tracking, cater to serious athletes looking to enhance their performance. However, the watch's high price point may be a deterrent for some. The Fenix's rugged design and durability make it a reliable choice for adventurers, but the lack of cellular connectivity might be a drawback for those seeking more connectivity options. Overall, the Garmin Fenix is a powerful tool for athletes and adventurers, offering a wide range of features to support various activities. Its advanced capabilities and robust design make it a worthwhile investment for those who demand the best in a multisport watch.

Comparable Watches


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The Coros Vertix 2 is a good alternative for those seeking a rugged and reliable multisport watch. It offers longer battery life compared to the Garmin Fenix, making it suitable for extended adventures. However, the Fenix provides more advanced mapping and navigation features, which might be preferred by serious adventurers. The Vertix 2 is simpler in design, while the Fenix offers more customization options and smartwatch features.

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The Suunto 9 Peak is another option for athletes looking for a durable multisport watch. It offers excellent battery life and accurate GPS tracking, similar to the Garmin Fenix. However, the Fenix provides more advanced training features and a more vibrant display. The Suunto 9 Peak is a solid choice for those who prioritize simplicity and reliability in their watch.

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The Polar Grit X Pro is a strong competitor in the multisport watch market, offering robust tracking features and a durable design. It excels in providing detailed training insights and recovery data, similar to the Garmin Fenix. However, the Fenix offers more advanced navigation features and a more customizable interface. The Grit X Pro is ideal for athletes who value detailed performance analysis.

Special versions of Garmin Fenix


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The Garmin Fenix 7X Solar offers a solar charging feature that extends battery life significantly, making it ideal for long outdoor adventures. Compared to the standard Fenix, it provides enhanced battery performance and is perfect for those who spend extended periods away from power sources. The 7X Solar also includes advanced mapping and navigation features, catering to serious adventurers.

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The Garmin Fenix 7S is a smaller version of the Fenix series, designed for those who prefer a more compact watch. It retains the advanced features of the Fenix line, including GPS and multisport tracking, but in a more lightweight and comfortable design. This makes it suitable for athletes with smaller wrists who still want the full functionality of a Fenix watch.

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The Garmin Fenix 6S is an earlier model that offers many of the same features as the Fenix 7, but at a more affordable price point. It includes GPS, heart-rate monitoring, and multisport tracking, making it a great option for those who want a reliable watch without the latest upgrades. The 6S is ideal for athletes who need essential tracking features without the premium cost.

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The Garmin Fenix 6X Pro is a robust version of the Fenix series, offering advanced mapping and navigation features. It includes a larger display and extended battery life, making it suitable for serious adventurers and athletes. The 6X Pro is perfect for those who need comprehensive tracking and navigation capabilities for their outdoor activities.

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The Garmin Fenix 5S is a compact and lightweight version of the Fenix series, designed for athletes who prefer a smaller watch. It offers essential tracking features, including GPS and heart-rate monitoring, making it a reliable choice for everyday use. The 5S is ideal for those who want a functional watch without the bulk of larger models.

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The Garmin Fenix 5X is known for its advanced mapping and navigation features, catering to serious adventurers. It includes a larger display and extended battery life, making it suitable for long-distance activities. The 5X is perfect for those who need comprehensive tracking and navigation capabilities in a durable design.

6 Garmin Fenix Pros & Cons


3 Pros

Advanced tracking features for multiple sports.
AMOLED display offers clear and vibrant visuals.
Solar charging extends battery life significantly.

3 Cons

High price point may deter some buyers.
Lack of cellular connectivity options.
Complex interface may be overwhelming for beginners.

In Depth


Battery life

The Garmin Fenix boasts impressive battery life, especially with its solar charging feature. In GPS mode, it can last up to 50 hours, while the solar model extends this even further. This makes it an excellent choice for long-distance runners and adventurers who need a reliable watch for extended periods without charging. The watch's battery management options allow users to optimize power usage, ensuring it lasts through even the longest activities.

Screen quality and brightness

The Fenix's AMOLED display provides vibrant and clear visuals, making it easy to read data even in bright sunlight. This is particularly beneficial for outdoor activities where visibility can be challenging. The screen's high resolution ensures that all information is displayed crisply, enhancing the overall user experience. The adjustable brightness settings allow users to customize the display to their preference, ensuring optimal visibility in various lighting conditions.

Strap comfort

The Garmin Fenix features a comfortable strap that is designed to withstand rigorous activities. Its adjustable fit ensures that it stays securely on the wrist during intense workouts or outdoor adventures. The material is durable yet soft, preventing irritation even during prolonged use. This makes it suitable for athletes who require a watch that can keep up with their active lifestyle without causing discomfort.

Heart-rate monitor accuracy

The heart-rate monitor on the Garmin Fenix is highly accurate, providing reliable data for athletes who need to track their performance closely. This feature is essential for those who want to monitor their heart rate during various activities, ensuring they stay within their target zones. The watch's ability to provide consistent and precise heart-rate data makes it a valuable tool for training and performance analysis.

GPS accuracy

The Garmin Fenix excels in GPS accuracy, making it a reliable choice for navigation and tracking during outdoor activities. Its ability to provide precise location data is crucial for runners and adventurers who need to map their routes accurately. The watch's GPS capabilities are enhanced by its multi-band technology, ensuring superior positioning even in challenging environments like dense forests or urban areas with tall buildings.

Sleep tracking

The sleep tracking feature on the Garmin Fenix provides valuable insights into sleep patterns and quality. This is beneficial for athletes who need to monitor their recovery and ensure they are getting adequate rest. The watch tracks various sleep stages, offering a comprehensive overview of sleep health. This data can be used to make informed decisions about training and recovery, optimizing overall performance.

Virtual coach and recovery

The Garmin Fenix includes a virtual coach feature that offers personalized training plans and recovery advice. This is ideal for athletes who want to improve their performance and ensure they are training effectively. The watch provides insights into recovery times, helping users avoid overtraining and optimize their workout schedules. This feature is particularly useful for those who need guidance in structuring their training and recovery routines.

Who should buy the Garmin Fenix?


The Garmin Fenix is perfect for dedicated athletes and adventurers who require a watch with advanced tracking and navigation features. It's ideal for those who engage in running, cycling, and other outdoor sports, offering comprehensive data to enhance performance. Its durable design and long battery life make it suitable for long-distance runners and adventurers who need a reliable companion for extended activities.

Who should not buy the Garmin Fenix?


The Garmin Fenix may not be the best choice for casual runners or those who do not require extensive tracking features. Its high price point and advanced capabilities might be overwhelming for beginners or those who only need basic tracking. If you're looking for a watch with simpler functionality, consider models with fewer features. Additionally, those who prioritize wireless syncing and connectivity might find the lack of cellular options limiting. For a more budget-friendly option, consider alternatives that offer essential features without the premium price tag.

Garmin Fenix: What's it good for?


The Garmin Fenix is well-suited for a variety of running and outdoor activities. Its advanced tracking features make it ideal for distance tracking and elevation tracking, providing valuable data for trail runners and hikers. The watch's robust design and long battery life are perfect for long-distance adventures, ensuring it can withstand the rigors of extended use. Its comprehensive activity detection capabilities make it a versatile tool for athletes who engage in multiple sports.

5 Garmin Fenix FAQs


What is the battery life of the Garmin Fenix?

The Garmin Fenix offers up to 50 hours of battery life in GPS mode and up to 1010 hours in smartwatch mode. The solar model extends this even further, making it ideal for long-distance activities.

Does the Garmin Fenix have a heart-rate monitor?

Yes, the Garmin Fenix includes a highly accurate heart-rate monitor, providing reliable data for athletes who need to track their performance closely.

Is the Garmin Fenix suitable for swimming?

Yes, the Garmin Fenix is water-resistant up to 50 meters, making it suitable for swimming and other water-based activities.

Can the Garmin Fenix track multiple sports?

Yes, the Garmin Fenix offers multisport tracking capabilities, making it ideal for athletes who engage in various activities such as running, cycling, and swimming.

Does the Garmin Fenix have GPS navigation?

Yes, the Garmin Fenix includes advanced GPS navigation features, providing precise location data and mapping capabilities for outdoor activities.

Garmin Fenix alternatives

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Garmin Fenix
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Released
May 2013
Aug 2024Oct 2022Oct 2022Oct 2022
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Expert Review Score
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Battery life
Battery life
1010 hours
384 hours
2160 hours
288 hours
288 hours
288 hours
Battery life – GPS mode
Battery life – GPS mode
50 hours
47 hours
320 hours
28 hours
28 hours
28 hours
Screen size
Screen size
36 mm
36 mm
30 mm
30 mm
30 mm
Weight
Weight
73 g
63 g
88 g
144 g
87 g
Height
Height
48 mm
47 mm
51 mm
46 mm
46 mm
46 mm
Resolution
Resolution
70 x 70 px
454 x 454 px
280 x 280 px
240 x 240 px
240 x 240 px
240 x 240 px
Waterproof depth
Waterproof depth
50 m
100 m
100 m
100 m
100 m
Pixel density
Pixel density
458 ppi
282 ppi
283 ppi
283 ppi
283 ppi
Internal storage
Internal storage
32 GB
32 GB
32 GB
Activity Tracking Features
Activity Tracking Features
Activity detectionDistance trackingElevation trackingGoal settingPace measurementSteps trackingTrackback mode
Activity detectionActivity taggingCoachingDistance trackingElevation trackingGoal settingLive trackingPace measurementRoute uploadsSteps trackingSwim stroke counterTrackback modeActivity detectionActivity taggingCoachingDistance trackingElevation trackingGoal settingLive trackingPace measurementRoute uploadsSteps trackingSwim stroke counterTrackback modeActivity detectionActivity taggingCoachingDistance trackingElevation trackingLive trackingPace measurementRoute uploadsSteps trackingSwim stroke counterTrackback modeActivity detectionActivity taggingCoachingDistance trackingElevation trackingLive trackingPace measurementRoute uploadsSteps trackingSwim stroke counterTrackback modeActivity detectionActivity taggingCoachingDistance trackingElevation trackingLive trackingPace measurementRoute uploadsSteps trackingSwim stroke counterTrackback mode
Health tracking features
Health tracking features
Calorie burn tracking
BMI trackingCalorie burn trackingCalorie intake trackingFertility notificationsOvulation predictionPeriod notificationsPeriod start date predictionsSleep trackingTemperature trackingWater intake trackingWeight trackingBMI trackingCalorie burn trackingCalorie intake trackingFertility notificationsOvulation predictionPeriod notificationsPeriod start date predictionsSleep trackingTemperature trackingWater intake trackingWeight trackingBMI trackingCalorie burn trackingFertility notificationsOvulation predictionPeriod notificationsPeriod start date predictionsSleep trackingTemperature trackingWater intake trackingBMI trackingCalorie burn trackingFertility notificationsOvulation predictionPeriod notificationsPeriod start date predictionsSleep trackingTemperature trackingWater intake trackingBMI trackingCalorie burn trackingFertility notificationsOvulation predictionPeriod notificationsPeriod start date predictionsSleep trackingTemperature trackingWater intake tracking
Connectivity Types
Connectivity Types
ANT+Wireless syncing
ANT+NFCWi-FiANT+NFCWi-FiANT+Wi-FiANT+Wi-FiANT+Wi-Fi
Sensors
Sensors
3D compassBarometerCadence sensorCompassGPS
AccelerometerBarometerBlood oxygenation monitorBody temperature sensorCompassFast GPS lockGalileoGPSGyroscopeHas a wind speed sensorHeart rate monitorAccelerometerBarometerBlood oxygenation monitorBody temperature sensorCompassFast GPS lockGalileoGPSGyroscopeHeart rate monitorMonitors perspirationAccelerometerBarometerBlood oxygenation monitorCadence sensorCompassGalileoGPSGyroscopeHeart rate monitorAccelerometerBarometerBlood oxygenation monitorCadence sensorCompassGalileoGPSGyroscopeHeart rate monitorAccelerometerBarometerBlood oxygenation monitorCadence sensorCompassGPSGyroscopeHeart rate monitor
Alerts
Alerts
Silent alarmVibrating alerts
Inactivity alertsIrregular heart rate warningsSilent alarmThunderstorm warningsVibrating alertsVoice feedbackInactivity alertsIrregular heart rate warningsSilent alarmThunderstorm warningsVibrating alertsVoice feedbackInactivity alertsSilent alarmVibrating alertsVoice feedbackInactivity alertsSilent alarmVibrating alertsVoice feedbackInactivity alertsSilent alarmVibrating alertsVoice feedback
Supported peripherals
Supported peripherals
Compatible heart monitorCompatible smart scalesCompatible heart monitorCompatible smart scalesCompatible heart monitorCompatible smart scalesCompatible heart monitorCompatible smart scalesCompatible heart monitorCompatible smart scales
Screen features
Screen features
Always-on displaySapphire glassTouch screenAlways-on displaySapphire glassTouch screenAlways-on displaySapphire glassAlways-on displaySapphire glassAlways-on displaySapphire glass
Battery features
Battery features
Rechargeable battery
Rechargeable batteryRechargeable batterySolar powerRechargeable batteryRechargeable batteryRechargeable battery
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Garmin Fenix: what the experts say (2 reviews)

Garmin Fenix: 18 Expert video reviews

Garmin Fenix: 2 Manufacturer videos

Garmin Fenix characteristics and specifications

Specificationsvs Average
Released
May 2013
System
Waypoints
1000
Measurements
Width
48 mm
Height
48 mm
Thickness
17 mm
Waterproofing
Waterproof depth
50 m
Screen
Resolution
70 x 70 px
Battery
Battery life – GPS mode
50 hours
Battery life
1010 hours
AuthorTom Green
Tom is the founder of geerly. Based in West London, he found his passion for running in his mid-30s. He’s best at longer distances, and is a regular at the London Marathon, where he's edging closer to sub-2.40. He started geerly because he found it frustrating when shopping for running shoes spending ages trying to find the best deal in his size, and wading through verbose, waffling reviews clearly designed to appeal to search engines rather than be helpful to users. For geerly he's passionate about writing reviews that get straight to the point, and helping runners find the right gear at the best price.
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Tom Green
December 18, 2024 at 9:55 AM
Gunnersbury parkrun #230 (my #3️⃣4️⃣)
πŸ“Š Stats by geerly πŸ‘Ÿ πŸ•’ Official time: 00:22:45 | Course PB 🚨 🏁 Overall position: 35/549 🚹 Gender position: 21/299 🎯 Age grade: 61%