Garmin Fenix 7

Review Score
84%
🏅 Highly Rated
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Garmin Fenix 7: Review

“A robust multisport GPS watch for serious athletes.”

Overview


The Garmin Fenix 7 is a multisport GPS watch designed to cater to the needs of serious athletes and outdoor enthusiasts. This watch is known for its robust build and comprehensive feature set, making it a versatile choice for various activities.

Key Features:

  • Advanced GPS and Navigation: Equipped with GPS, GLONASS, and Galileo for precise location tracking.
  • Comprehensive Health Monitoring: Includes heart rate monitoring, pulse oximetry (measures the oxygen level in your blood), and sleep tracking.
  • Durable Design: Features a stainless steel bezel and a fiber-reinforced polymer case for enhanced durability.

The Garmin Fenix 7 is an ideal choice for athletes who prioritize accurate tracking and durability for outdoor adventures. Its advanced navigation features offer reliable guidance, making it suitable for challenging environments.

With an average review score of 84%, it's in the highest rated 40% of similar running watches. Based on our monitoring of prices across the internet, it's currently in the most expensive 20% of running watches today.

Verdict

The consensus on the Garmin Fenix 7


The Garmin Fenix 7 is widely regarded as a top-tier multisport GPS watch, praised for its durability and comprehensive feature set. It excels in providing accurate GPS tracking, thanks to its advanced satellite systems, making it a reliable companion for outdoor activities. The watch's health monitoring capabilities, including heart rate and sleep tracking, are well-received, offering valuable insights for athletes. However, some users find the companion app lacking in user-friendliness, and the watch's price point is considered high. Despite these drawbacks, the Fenix 7's robust build and extensive features make it a worthwhile investment for those seeking a reliable and versatile sports watch. Overall, the Garmin Fenix 7 is a solid choice for serious athletes and outdoor enthusiasts.

Updates to Garmin Fenix 7


The Garmin Fenix 7 introduces several updates over its predecessors in the Garmin Fenix line. Notably, it features a new touchscreen interface, enhancing user interaction and ease of use. The watch also includes improved GPS accuracy with multi-band GNSS technology, providing more reliable location tracking. Additionally, the Fenix 7 offers enhanced health monitoring capabilities, such as advanced heart rate and sleep tracking. These updates make the Fenix 7 a more versatile and user-friendly option compared to earlier models like the Garmin Fenix 6 Pro.

Comparable Watches


The Garmin Forerunner 955 is a good alternative for those seeking a lighter and more affordable option. While it shares many features with the Fenix 7, such as advanced health tracking and GPS capabilities, the Forerunner 955 is primarily made of plastic, making it less durable. However, it offers a similar user interface and excellent heart rate accuracy, making it a suitable choice for runners who prioritize weight and cost over ruggedness.

The Coros Vertix 2 is a good option for those who prioritize battery life and durability. It offers exceptional battery performance, making it ideal for long expeditions. While it lacks some of the advanced health metrics found in the Fenix 7, it provides reliable GPS tracking and a robust design. This makes the Vertix 2 a strong contender for adventurers who need a watch that can withstand extreme conditions.

The Suunto 9 Peak is a good choice for those who value a sleek design and simplicity. It offers reliable GPS tracking and a user-friendly interface, making it suitable for casual athletes. While it may not have as many features as the Fenix 7, its lightweight design and ease of use make it a practical option for those who prefer a straightforward sports watch.

Special versions of Garmin Fenix 7




The Garmin Fenix 7 Solar is a special version of the Fenix 7 that incorporates solar charging capabilities, extending the watch's battery life significantly. This feature is particularly beneficial for users who spend extended periods outdoors, as it allows the watch to harness solar energy to power its functions. While the core features and design remain similar to the standard Fenix 7, the solar version offers an added layer of convenience and sustainability, making it an attractive option for eco-conscious athletes and adventurers.

6 Garmin Fenix 7 Pros & Cons


3 Pros

Excellent GPS accuracy with multi-band GNSS technology.
Comprehensive health monitoring features, including heart rate and sleep tracking.
Durable design with a stainless steel bezel and fiber-reinforced polymer case.

3 Cons

High price point may not be suitable for all budgets.
Companion app could be more user-friendly.
Complex features may be overwhelming for casual users.

In Depth


Battery life

The Garmin Fenix 7 boasts impressive battery life, making it suitable for extended outdoor adventures. In smartwatch mode, it can last up to 18 days, while GPS mode offers up to 57 hours of usage. This longevity is further enhanced by the watch's solar charging capabilities, which can extend battery life significantly under optimal conditions. The PowerManager settings allow users to customize power modes, ensuring efficient energy use during various activities. This feature is particularly beneficial for those who engage in long-distance running or hiking, where reliable battery performance is crucial.

Screen quality and brightness

The Fenix 7 features a 33 mm (1.3-inch) transflective memory-in-pixel (MIP) display, offering excellent readability in various lighting conditions. The screen's resolution of 260 x 260 pixels ensures clear and sharp visuals, while the always-on display feature provides convenience for quick glances. The display's brightness is adjustable, allowing users to optimize visibility based on their environment. This makes the Fenix 7 a practical choice for outdoor activities, where screen clarity is essential for navigation and data monitoring.

Heart-rate monitor accuracy

The Garmin Fenix 7 is equipped with the Elevate V5 optical heart rate sensor, which provides accurate heart rate monitoring during workouts and daily activities. This sensor is designed to handle various workout types, including those with wrist movements, such as weightlifting. The heart rate data is used to calculate other health metrics, such as stress levels and VO2 max (maximum rate of oxygen consumption measured during incremental exercise), offering a comprehensive view of the user's fitness. The accuracy of the heart rate monitor is a standout feature, making the Fenix 7 a reliable choice for athletes who require precise health tracking.

GPS accuracy

The Fenix 7 excels in GPS accuracy, utilizing multi-band GNSS (Global Navigation Satellite System) technology to provide precise location tracking even in challenging environments. This feature is particularly beneficial for trail runners and hikers who navigate through dense forests or deep canyons. The watch's ability to quickly locate satellites and maintain a strong signal ensures reliable navigation and route tracking. This level of accuracy sets the Fenix 7 apart from many competitors, making it a preferred choice for those who require dependable GPS performance.

Sleep tracking

The sleep tracking capabilities of the Garmin Fenix 7 offer valuable insights into the user's sleep patterns and quality. The watch monitors sleep stages, including light, deep, and REM (Rapid Eye Movement) sleep, providing a comprehensive overview of the user's rest. This data is used to inform other health metrics, such as recovery time and training readiness, helping users optimize their training schedules. While the accuracy of sleep stage tracking can vary, the overall sleep monitoring feature is a useful tool for those looking to improve their sleep habits and overall well-being.

Who should buy the Garmin Fenix 7?


The Garmin Fenix 7 is ideal for athletes and outdoor enthusiasts who require a durable and feature-rich GPS watch. It's particularly suited for those who engage in running, hiking, and other outdoor activities that demand accurate GPS tracking and navigation. The watch's comprehensive health monitoring features, including heart rate and sleep tracking, make it a valuable tool for individuals focused on optimizing their fitness and recovery. Additionally, its robust design and long battery life are perfect for those who frequently embark on extended adventures.

Who should not buy the Garmin Fenix 7?


The Garmin Fenix 7 may not be the best choice for individuals who are looking for a budget-friendly option or those who primarily engage in indoor activities. Its extensive features and high price point might be unnecessary for casual users who do not require advanced GPS capabilities or heart rate monitoring. Additionally, those who prefer a more streamlined and user-friendly interface might find the Fenix 7's complex features overwhelming. For such users, simpler models like the Garmin Forerunner family could be more suitable.

Garmin Fenix 7: What's it good for?


The Garmin Fenix 7 is excellent for outdoor sports such as running, hiking, and trail running. Its advanced GPS capabilities make it ideal for navigating challenging terrains. The watch is also suitable for multisport athletes who require comprehensive health tracking features, including heart rate and sleep monitoring. With its durable design and long battery life, the Fenix 7 is perfect for extended adventures where reliability is crucial.

4 Garmin Fenix 7 FAQs


What is the battery life of the Garmin Fenix 7?

The Garmin Fenix 7 offers up to 18 days of battery life in smartwatch mode and up to 57 hours in GPS mode. This can be extended with solar charging in the Solar version.

Does the Garmin Fenix 7 have a touchscreen?

Yes, the Garmin Fenix 7 features a touchscreen interface, allowing for easy navigation and interaction with the watch's features.

Is the Garmin Fenix 7 suitable for swimming?

Yes, the Garmin Fenix 7 is water-resistant up to 100 meters, making it suitable for swimming and other water-based activities.

How accurate is the GPS on the Garmin Fenix 7?

The Garmin Fenix 7 offers highly accurate GPS tracking, utilizing multi-band GNSS technology to provide precise location data even in challenging environments.

Garmin Fenix 7 alternatives



Garmin Fenix 7
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Garmin Fenix 7
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priceBand
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released
Released
Jan 2022
Oct 2022Oct 2022Oct 2022Oct 2022
expertReviewScore
Expert Review Score












Battery life
Battery life
432 hours
288 hours
288 hours
288 hours
288 hours
288 hours
Battery life – GPS mode
Battery life – GPS mode
136 hours
28 hours
28 hours
28 hours
28 hours
28 hours
Screen size
Screen size
33 mm
30 mm
30 mm
30 mm
30 mm
30 mm
Weight
Weight
79 g
87 g
144 g
88 g
95 g
94 g
Height
Height
47 mm
46 mm
46 mm
46 mm
46 mm
46 mm
Resolution
Resolution
260 x 260 px
240 x 240 px
240 x 240 px
240 x 240 px
240 x 240 px
240 x 240 px
Waterproof depth
Waterproof depth
100 m
100 m
100 m
100 m
100 m
100 m
Pixel density
Pixel density
282 ppi
283 ppi
283 ppi
283 ppi
283 ppi
283 ppi
Internal storage
Internal storage
16 GB
32 GB
32 GB
32 GB
Health tracking features
Health tracking features
BMI trackingCalorie burn trackingCalorie intake trackingPeriod notificationsSleep trackingTemperature trackingWater intake trackingWeight tracking
BMI 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 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
Sensors
Sensors
AccelerometerBarometerBlood oxygenation monitorBody temperature sensorCompassGPSGyroscopeHeart rate monitor
AccelerometerBarometerBlood oxygenation monitorCadence sensorCompassGPSGyroscopeHeart rate monitorAccelerometerBarometerBlood oxygenation monitorCadence sensorCompassGalileoGPSGyroscopeHeart rate monitorAccelerometerBarometerBlood oxygenation monitorCadence sensorCompassGalileoGPSGyroscopeHeart rate monitorAccelerometerBarometerBlood oxygenation monitorCadence sensorCompassGPSGyroscopeHeart rate monitorAccelerometerBarometerBlood oxygenation monitorCadence sensorCompassGalileoGPSGyroscopeHeart rate monitor
Alerts
Alerts
Inactivity alertsSilent alarmSmart alarmVibrating alerts
Inactivity alertsSilent alarmVibrating alertsVoice feedbackInactivity alertsSilent alarmVibrating alertsVoice feedbackInactivity alertsSilent alarmVibrating alertsVoice feedbackInactivity alertsSilent alarmThunderstorm warningsVibrating alertsVoice feedbackInactivity alertsIrregular heart rate warningsSilent alarmVibrating alertsVoice feedback
Screen features
Screen features
Always-on displayTouch screen
Always-on displaySapphire glassAlways-on displaySapphire glassAlways-on displaySapphire glassAlways-on displaySapphire glassAlways-on displaySapphire glass
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Garmin Fenix 7: what the experts say (2 reviews)

Garmin Fenix 7: 22 Expert video reviews

Garmin Fenix 7 characteristics and specifications

Characteristics
SportsRunning (+122)
BrandGarmin (+79)
FeaturesAchievements (+82)Auto pause (+79)Calendar sync (+60)Call control (+74)Fall detection (+45)has fast/slow heart rate notifications (+78)has HRV tracking (+72)measures resting heart rate (+81)measures VO2 max (+77)Multi-sport mode (+80)Music playback (+75)Phone locator (+74)Shake to dismiss notification (+4)Shows readiness level (+58)Social network integration (+54)Sunrise/sunset time (+74)Uploadable maps (+56)Voice commands (+28)Widgets (+78)
Activity Tracking FeaturesActivity detection (+90)Activity tagging (+98)Coaching (+65)Distance tracking (+104)Elevation tracking (+97)Goal setting (+72)Live tracking (+55)Pace measurement (+103)Route uploads (+71)Steps tracking (+103)Swim stroke counter (+89)Swim stroke recognition (+47)Trackback mode (+70)
Health tracking featuresBMI tracking (+54)Calorie burn tracking (+88)Calorie intake tracking (+34)Period notifications (+58)Sleep tracking (+85)Temperature tracking (+59)Water intake tracking (+51)Weight tracking (+45)
Connectivity TypesANT+ (+73)Automatic syncing (+52)Cloud syncing (+54)NFC (+53)Wi-Fi (+57)Wireless syncing (+64)
SensorsAccelerometer (+101)Barometer (+87)Blood oxygenation monitor (+68)Body temperature sensor (+68)Compass (+94)GPS (+103)Gyroscope (+77)Heart rate monitor (+96)
WaterproofingsIP67 (+87)Sweat resistant (+93)
AlertsInactivity alerts (+72)Silent alarm (+80)Smart alarm (+18)Vibrating alerts (+83)
Supported peripheralsCompatible heart monitor (+82)Compatible smart scales (+58)
Screen featuresAlways-on display (+80)Touch screen (+42)
Battery featuresBattery level indicator (+63)Rechargeable battery (+104)Wireless charging (+26)
ColorwaysCarbon Grey / Black, Mineral Blue / Whitestone, Silver / Graphite Band
Specificationsvs Average
Model
7
Released
Jan 2022
Battery
Battery life – training mode
10 hours
Battery life – GPS mode
136 hours
Battery life
432 hours
System
Internal storage
16 GB
Measurements
Volume
32 cm³
Strap width
22 mm
Width
47 mm
Height
47 mm
Thickness
15 mm
Weight
79 g
Waterproofing
Waterproof depth
100 m
Screen
Pixel density
282 ppi
Resolution
260 x 260 px
Screen size
33 mm
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
October 17, 2024 at 9:55 AM
Gunnersbury parkrun #230 (my #3️⃣4️⃣)
📊 Stats by geerly 👟 🕒 Official time: 00:22:45 | Course PB 🚨 🏁 Overall position: 35/549 🚹 Gender position: 21/299 🎯 Age grade: 61%