Garmin Fenix 8 Solar

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Garmin Fenix 8 Solar: Review

“A premium running watch with solar charging and advanced GPS capabilities.”

Overview


The Garmin Fenix 8 Solar is a high-performance running watch designed for serious athletes and outdoor enthusiasts. This watch is known for its advanced features and robust build quality.

Key Features:

  • Solar Charging: Extends battery life by harnessing solar energy.
  • Advanced GPS: Offers precise location tracking with dual-frequency and MULTI GNSS (Global Navigation Satellite System) capabilities.
  • Premium Materials: Constructed with a titanium case and sapphire glass for durability.

The Garmin Fenix 8 Solar is an ideal choice for athletes who prioritize battery life and durability for extended outdoor activities. Its advanced GPS offers accurate tracking, making it suitable for navigation in remote areas.

Verdict

The consensus on the Garmin Fenix 8 Solar


The Garmin Fenix 8 Solar is a top-tier GPS watch that excels in accuracy and battery life, making it a strong contender for those who demand the best in performance and durability. Its solar charging feature significantly extends battery life, which is a major advantage for long-distance runners and outdoor adventurers. The watch's premium materials, including a titanium case and sapphire glass, ensure it can withstand harsh conditions. However, its high price point and complexity may not suit everyone, especially those who prefer a simpler interface. The Fenix 8 Solar's advanced features, such as voice commands and dive modes, cater to a niche audience, but may not be necessary for all users. Overall, the watch is a solid investment for those who need a reliable and feature-rich device for their athletic pursuits. While it offers excellent performance, its cost and complexity might deter casual users.

Updates to Garmin Fenix 8 Solar


The Garmin Fenix 8 Solar introduces several updates over previous models in the Garmin Fenix line. It features significantly extended battery life compared to the Garmin Fenix 7 Solar. The user interface has been revamped for improved navigation and ease of use. Additionally, the Fenix 8 Solar incorporates new hardware features, such as voice commands and dive modes, expanding its functionality beyond traditional sports tracking. These updates position the Fenix 8 Solar as a more versatile and feature-rich option within the Fenix family.

Comparable Watches


The Garmin Enduro 3 is a good alternative for those who prioritize battery life over additional features. It offers similar software capabilities but lacks the speaker and microphone found in the Fenix 8 Solar. The Enduro 3 is also lighter and more affordable, making it a practical choice for backcountry users who need extended battery life without the extra cost.

The Garmin Forerunner 965 is recommended for runners who prefer a lighter and more streamlined design. While it may not offer the same level of durability as the Fenix 8 Solar, it provides excellent battery life and a comprehensive feature set at a more accessible price point. This makes it a suitable option for those who want a high-performance watch without the premium cost.

6 Garmin Fenix 8 Solar Pros & Cons


3 Pros

Excellent battery life with solar charging.
Accurate GPS and heart rate monitoring.
Premium materials and durable design.

3 Cons

High price point.
Complex interface may overwhelm some users.
Heavy compared to other models.

In Depth


Battery life

The Garmin Fenix 8 Solar boasts impressive battery life, thanks to its solar charging capability. This feature allows the watch to extend its runtime significantly, making it ideal for long-distance runners and outdoor enthusiasts who spend extended periods away from power sources. The solar power feature is particularly beneficial in sunny climates, where it can help maintain the watch's charge for longer durations. With regular use, the watch can last for several weeks without needing a recharge, depending on the intensity of activities and solar exposure.

Screen quality and brightness

The Fenix 8 Solar features a MIP (Memory In Pixel) display, which balances visibility and battery efficiency. While it may not match the vibrancy of AMOLED screens, it performs well in bright sunlight, making it suitable for outdoor activities. The screen's clarity is enhanced by the removal of the transparent solar panel over the display, improving visibility. However, in dimmer settings, the screen may require the backlight to be activated for better readability.

Strap comfort

The Fenix 8 Solar comes with a comfortable and durable strap that is suitable for extended wear. The strap's design allows for easy adjustment, ensuring a secure fit during intense activities. It is also compatible with older Fenix models, allowing users to interchange straps if desired. The strap's material is designed to withstand sweat and moisture, making it ideal for running and other outdoor sports.

Heart-rate monitor accuracy

Equipped with the latest Garmin Elevate Gen5 Optical HR sensor, the Fenix 8 Solar provides accurate heart rate monitoring. This sensor technology ensures reliable readings during various activities, from running to swimming. The watch also offers features like fast/slow heart rate notifications, which alert users to any significant changes in their heart rate, enhancing its utility for health monitoring.

GPS accuracy

The Fenix 8 Solar excels in GPS accuracy, utilizing dual-frequency and MULTI GNSS capabilities to provide precise location tracking. This makes it a reliable choice for runners and outdoor enthusiasts who require accurate navigation in remote areas. The watch's GPS performance is consistent, even in challenging environments with limited satellite visibility, ensuring users can trust its data during their activities.

Who should buy the Garmin Fenix 8 Solar?


The Garmin Fenix 8 Solar is best suited for serious athletes and outdoor enthusiasts who require a durable and feature-rich watch. Its advanced GPS and solar charging capabilities make it ideal for those who engage in long-distance running or hiking in remote areas. The watch's premium materials and robust build quality ensure it can withstand harsh conditions, making it a reliable choice for adventurers. Additionally, those who value comprehensive health monitoring features, such as heart rate and VO2 max tracking, will find this watch beneficial.

Who should not buy the Garmin Fenix 8 Solar?


Casual users or those who prefer a simpler interface may find the Garmin Fenix 8 Solar overwhelming due to its complexity and extensive features. Its high price point may also deter budget-conscious buyers who do not require advanced functionalities like voice commands or dive modes. For those primarily interested in basic fitness tracking or who prefer a lighter, more streamlined design, alternatives like the Garmin Forerunner 965 or other less expensive models may be more suitable.

Garmin Fenix 8 Solar: What's it good for?


The Garmin Fenix 8 Solar is excellent for long-distance running and outdoor activities that require reliable GPS tracking. Its solar charging feature makes it ideal for extended adventures where access to power is limited. The watch's durability and advanced health monitoring capabilities also make it suitable for athletes who engage in intense training and need comprehensive data on their performance.

5 Garmin Fenix 8 Solar FAQs


How does the solar charging feature work on the Garmin Fenix 8 Solar?

The solar charging feature on the Garmin Fenix 8 Solar extends the watch's battery life by converting sunlight into energy. This is particularly useful for outdoor activities where access to power sources is limited. The solar power feature can significantly increase the watch's runtime, especially in sunny environments.

Is the Garmin Fenix 8 Solar suitable for everyday use?

Yes, the Garmin Fenix 8 Solar is suitable for everyday use, offering comprehensive health monitoring features such as heart rate, sleep tracking, and VO2 max. Its durable design and advanced functionalities make it a versatile choice for both daily wear and athletic activities.

What are the main differences between the Garmin Fenix 8 Solar and the Enduro 3?

The main differences between the Garmin Fenix 8 Solar and the Enduro 3 include the presence of a speaker and microphone in the Fenix 8 Solar, which are absent in the Enduro 3. The Fenix 8 Solar also offers dive modes and a more premium build, while the Enduro 3 focuses on extended battery life and affordability.

Can the Garmin Fenix 8 Solar track swimming activities?

Yes, the Garmin Fenix 8 Solar can track swimming activities, offering features like swim stroke counter and heart rate monitoring. Its water-resistant design makes it suitable for use in pools and open water.

Does the Garmin Fenix 8 Solar support music playback?

Yes, the Garmin Fenix 8 Solar supports music playback, allowing users to store and play music directly from the watch. This feature is convenient for runners and athletes who prefer to listen to music without carrying a separate device.

Garmin Fenix 8 Solar alternatives



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Aug 2024
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Battery life
Battery life
552 hours
336 hours
216 hours
384 hours
384 hours
Battery life – GPS mode
Battery life – GPS mode
31 hours
162 hours
42 hours
42 hours
Screen size
Screen size
36 mm
30 mm
25 mm
30 mm
30 mm
Weight
Weight
53 g
63 g
92 g
141 g
Height
Height
47 mm
42 mm
46 mm
46 mm
Resolution
Resolution
454 x 454 px
240 x 240 px
390 px
390 px
Waterproof depth
Waterproof depth
50 m
100 m
100 m
100 m
Pixel density
Pixel density
458 ppi
282 ppi
459 ppi
459 ppi
Charging time
Charging time
2 hours
Internal storage
Internal storage
32 GB
16 GB
32 GB
32 GB
Activity Tracking Features
Activity Tracking Features
Activity detectionActivity taggingDistance trackingElevation trackingExercise taggingPace measurementSteps trackingSwim stroke counter
Activity detectionActivity taggingDistance trackingElevation trackingExercise taggingPace measurementSteps trackingSwim stroke counterTrackback modeActivity detectionActivity taggingDistance trackingElevation trackingExercise taggingPace measurementSteps trackingSwim stroke counterActivity detectionCoachingGoal settingSteps trackingActivity detectionActivity taggingCoachingDistance trackingElevation trackingGoal settingLive trackingPace measurementRoute uploadsSteps trackingSwim stroke counterTrackback modeActivity detectionActivity taggingCoachingDistance trackingElevation trackingGoal settingLive trackingPace measurementRoute uploadsSteps trackingSwim stroke counterTrackback mode
Health tracking features
Health tracking features
Calorie burn trackingSleep trackingBMI 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 tracking
Sensors
Sensors
AccelerometerBarometerBlood oxygenation monitorBody temperature sensorCompassGPSGyroscopeHeart rate monitor
AccelerometerBarometerBlood oxygenation monitorBody temperature sensorCompassGPSGyroscopeHeart rate monitorAccelerometerBarometerBlood oxygenation monitorBody temperature sensorCadence sensorCompassGPSGyroscopeHeart rate monitorAccelerometerBlood oxygenation monitorGalileoGPSHeart rate monitorAccelerometerBarometerBlood oxygenation monitorBody temperature sensorCadence sensorCompassFast GPS lockGalileoGPSGyroscopeHas a wind speed sensorHeart rate monitorAccelerometerBarometerBlood oxygenation monitorBody temperature sensorCadence sensorCompassFast GPS lockGalileoGPSGyroscopeHas a wind speed sensorHeart rate monitor
Waterproofings
Waterproofings
IP67Sweat resistantIP67Sweat resistant
Alerts
Alerts
Inactivity alertsInactivity alertsIrregular heart rate warningsSilent alarmThunderstorm warningsVibrating alertsVoice feedbackInactivity alertsIrregular heart rate warningsSilent alarmThunderstorm warningsVibrating alertsVoice feedback
Supported peripherals
Supported peripherals
Compatible heart monitorCompatible smart scalesCompatible heart monitorCompatible smart scales
Screen features
Screen features
Damage resistant glassAlways-on displaySapphire glassTouch screenAlways-on displaySapphire glassTouch screen
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Garmin Fenix 8 Solar: what the experts say (2 reviews)

Garmin Fenix 8 Solar: 1 Expert video review

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
March 3, 2025 at 9:55 AM
Gunnersbury parkrun #230 (my #3️⃣4️⃣)
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