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garmin epix vs epix pro

When Garmin dropped the Epix line, it was clear they were aiming at athletes and adventurers who wanted AMOLED style with full outdoor muscle.

The original Epix feels like a strong hybrid where you get Garmin’s deep training tools and maps in a sleeker shell.

Then came the Epix Pro, and Garmin turned up the heat: more sizes, brighter displays, flashlight functionality, and the new Elevate V5 heart rate sensor.

Suddenly, the choice isn’t just “do I want an Epix?” It’s “which Epix fits my lifestyle best?” That’s where things get tricky.

Both watches look sharp, but under the hood the Pro series is stacked with upgrades you’ll actually notice when you’re grinding through miles or heading deep into the backcountry. This guide breaks down the top models in both families so you know which one belongs on your wrist in 2025.

How to Choose Between Garmin Epix and Epix Pro

At first glance, the Epix and Epix Pro look similar. Both pack Garmin’s signature AMOLED display, full mapping, and all the training tools you could ever want. But the Pro series is built to refine the formula.

The biggest shift is choice: Epix comes in one size, while the Epix Pro comes in three 42mm, 47mm, and 51mm. That means a better fit for every wrist type.

Add in the built-in flashlight across all Pro models, and suddenly you’ve got safety and utility baked right into the watch. Battery life also gets a boost in the Pro lineup, especially with solar options.

So how do you choose? If you’re okay with fewer options and want something sleeker at a slightly lower price, the standard Epix works. If you want the most versatile, feature-complete AMOLED Garmin ever made, the Epix Pro is where it’s at.

Best Garmin Epix Models (2025)

Garmin Epix (Gen 2 Standard Edition) – $899.99

Garmin Epix (Gen 2 Standard Edition)

The original Epix (Gen 2 Standard) is where Garmin first blended outdoor grit with AMOLED shine. At 47mm, it’s big enough for serious athletes but still works as a daily driver.

You get full-color maps, multisport tracking, and health features like heart rate, stress, and sleep monitoring. Battery life runs up to 16 days in smartwatch mode, which is solid for an AMOLED display.

The Standard skips sapphire glass and solar charging, but the Gorilla Glass lens holds up fine under normal wear. It’s the best entry point into the Epix world, especially if you want something more affordable without giving up Garmin’s deep ecosystem.

For everyday runners, gym-goers, or hikers who don’t need flagship armor, the Standard gets it done. Stylish enough for work, rugged enough for play, this model still stands tall in 2025 as a smart balance of price and power.

Garmin Epix (Gen 2 Sapphire Edition) – $999.99

The Epix Gen 2 Sapphire Edition takes everything the Standard offers and cranks up durability. With a Power Sapphire lens and titanium bezel, this model is built to handle punishment without looking bulky.

The AMOLED display is crystal clear, and maps pop beautifully on-screen. Battery life matches the Standard around 16 days but you’ll feel the difference in toughness and finish.

It’s perfect for users who love the outdoors but want a premium build that can handle scrapes and scratches. You also get full training readiness tools, HRV tracking, and Garmin Pay for daily convenience.

At $999.99, it’s not cheap, but the Sapphire upgrade is worth it if you’re hard on your gear. Think of it as the everyday luxury adventure watch strong enough for ultramarathons, sleek enough for the office. This is where Garmin started proving AMOLED belongs in serious sports watches.

Epix Sapphire Edition (White Titanium) — $999.99

If you want epix elegance without babying your wrist, the White Titanium Sapphire is the flex. You get the same crisp 1.3 inch AMOLED display and 47mm case, but the lens upgrades to sapphire for scratch resistance and the bezel swaps to lightweight titanium.

That combo keeps weight low and durability high, so long runs, gym sessions, and travel feel equally at home. Under the hood it’s classic epix: multiband GPS for clean tracks in messy cities or dense trails, full-color maps with turn by turn, and training tools like Training Readiness, HRV status, and stamina.

Music storage, Garmin Pay, safety alerts, and robust battery life make it an everyday driver that still swings big outdoors. If you want premium materials, bright visuals, and Garmin’s full brain without the bulk of a 51mm case, this is the classy pick that still plays rough, truly everywhere.

Best Garmin Epix Pro Models (2025)

Garmin Epix Pro 42mm Sapphire – $999.99

Garmin Epix Pro 42mm Sapphire

Compact and powerful, the 42mm Epix Pro Sapphire is designed for smaller wrists but doesn’t hold back on features. You get the AMOLED display, full mapping, HRV status, and Garmin’s full training suite all packed into a lightweight titanium build with Power Sapphire glass.

The big win here is size: not everyone wants a giant 47mm or 51mm watch. Battery life still hits an impressive 10 days in smartwatch mode, which is plenty for most users.

The flashlight adds real-world utility, whether you’re out on a late run or fumbling with gear in the dark. It’s a rare blend of premium durability and sleek wearability.

For those who always felt left out of Garmin’s bigger builds, this Pro makes the entire ecosystem accessible without compromises.

Stylish, tough, and loaded with features the 42mm Epix Pro Sapphire proves that smaller can still mean serious.

Garmin Epix Pro 47mm Solar – $999.99

Garmin Epix Pro 47mm Solar

The 47mm Epix Pro Solar is the workhorse of the lineup. This is the size Garmin built its ecosystem around, and it shows. With Power Glass solar charging, the battery stretches up to 16 days, giving you extra life when you spend more time outdoors.

The AMOLED screen is brilliant in any light, and the maps look better than ever. Add in the flashlight, HRV tracking, and Garmin’s full suite of training features, and you’ve got a watch that balances everything perfectly.

It’s not as premium as the Sapphire models, but it still holds up under tough conditions thanks to the rugged build. For most athletes, this is the sweet spot: not too big, not too small, and loaded with performance.

Whether you’re logging miles, lifting heavy, or planning backcountry trips, the 47mm Epix Pro Solar has the endurance and brains to match your grind.

Garmin Epix Pro 47mm Sapphire – $1,099.99

If you want durability and premium feel in the ideal size, the 47mm Epix Pro Sapphire is the go to. Power Sapphire glass and a titanium bezel make it nearly indestructible, while the AMOLED screen gives you sharp, bright visuals for maps and stats.

The flashlight, upgraded heart rate sensor, and Garmin’s deep training ecosystem are all included. Battery life stretches up to 16 days, and the watch feels balanced on most wrists.

At $1,099.99, you’re paying for the peace of mind that this thing won’t scratch or break easily. It’s for serious athletes who want both form and function.

Whether you’re grinding out a marathon training block or climbing peaks, the Sapphire version is your insurance policy against hard knocks.

This model proves you don’t have to compromise between looks and performance. It’s rugged luxury that earns its price tag.

Garmin Epix Pro 51mm Solar – $1,099.99

Garmin Epix Pro 51mm Solar

Big, bold, and built for the long haul that’s the 51mm Epix Pro Solar. This is the oversized option for those who want maximum battery and visibility.

Solar charging with Power Glass pushes the battery up to 31 days, a ridiculous figure for an AMOLED device. The extra screen real estate makes maps and metrics easier to read, and the flashlight adds serious functionality for night runs or campsite duties.

At this size, it’s not subtle but that’s the point. It’s a watch for ultra athletes, mountaineers, or anyone who wants gear that screams utility. Despite its bulk, it’s surprisingly comfortable with the right strap.

If you’re chasing extreme endurance or spend weeks off grid, this one has your back. The 51mm Epix Pro Solar doesn’t just keep up, it leads the charge, literally. A monster watch for monster goals.

Garmin Epix Pro 51mm Sapphire – $1,199.99

Garmin Epix Pro 51mm Sapphire

The 51mm Epix Pro Sapphire takes Garmin’s biggest AMOLED powerhouse and adds luxury-grade durability. With Power Sapphire glass and a titanium bezel, it shrugs off scratches and abuse while delivering premium style.

The AMOLED display is massive, maps look stunning, and stats are easy to glance at mid-workout. Battery life stretches to 31 days with solar assist, so this isn’t just a daily driver it’s an expedition tool.

You also get the flashlight, Elevate V5 sensor, and full Garmin training suite. At $1,199.99, it’s expensive, but for serious adventurers, it’s worth it.

This is Garmin saying “yes, you can have it all.” Whether you’re navigating alpine trails, tackling triathlon training, or managing both in the same month, this model won’t flinch.

Big, tough, and unapologetically premium, the 51mm Sapphire Pro is the final word on AMOLED adventure watches.

Garmin Epix Pro (Special Edition Variants) – $1,099.99+

Garmin also offers Epix Pro variants that mix things up with cosmetic tweaks, strap materials, or limited-edition finishes. Underneath, they carry the same core loadout: AMOLED display, flashlight, solar or sapphire protection, and Garmin’s elite training features.

These editions are aimed at users who want something different, maybe a softer silicone strap, a unique case color, or region specific releases.

The specs don’t change, but the look does, and that can make all the difference if you wear the watch every day. Pricing usually starts around $1,099.99 and can climb depending on finish.

They’re not essential, but they show how Garmin is leaning into lifestyle appeal without losing its hardcore edge.

If you like the idea of a watch that feels a little less common, the Special Editions are worth hunting down. Function meets style without compromise, making them collector worthy pieces.

Epix Pro 47mm Standard Edition —  $899.99

Epix Pro 47mm Standard Edition

The Goldilocks size of the epix Pro family nails balance: big enough for a roomy 1.3 inch AMOLED, small enough to disappear under a jacket.

You get the Pro upgrades that matter built-in flashlight with strobe modes, the Elevate V5 heart-rate sensor, hill score, endurance score, and multiband GPS for better tracks in canyons and city cores.

Battery life is strong for an AMOLED watch, and the stainless-steel bezel keeps costs in check without feeling cheap.

Mapping is full color with offline support, ClimbPro calls out upcoming grades, and SatIQ auto picks the best satellite mode to save juice.

Add phone notifications, Garmin Pay, music storage, and safety features and you’ve got a legit do-it-all training watch.

If the 42mm feels cramped and the 51mm is a doorstop, the 47mm Standard is the sweet spot, clean, fast, and ready for daily miles and weekend missions alike.

Conclusion

Garmin’s Epix and Epix Pro lines prove that AMOLED belongs in serious adventure watches. The standard Epix keeps things simple with two durable models at friendlier price points.

The Pro series expands the lineup with more sizes, tougher builds, built-in flashlights, and longer battery life. If you’re a casual athlete or want something sleek, the original Epix models hold strong.

But if you want Garmin’s most versatile and feature rich AMOLED watch, the Epix Pro lineup delivers across the board. Either way, you’re walking away with one of the sharpest, toughest smartwatches of 2025.

best garmin watch for hunting

When it comes to hunting, the right watch isn’t about how good it looks at dinner. It’s about reliability when you’re deep in the wild, where precision matters and battery life can’t be an afterthought.

Garmin has built its reputation on rugged, data-driven wearables that thrive in tough conditions, and hunters have taken notice.

From GPS accuracy to stealth tracking to long-lasting power, these watches are designed to do more than just count steps. They help you navigate terrain, monitor your health, and even stay invisible when you need to.

The best part? Garmin makes options for every kind of hunter, whether you’re out for a weekend or trekking for weeks at a time.

In this guide, we’ve picked five of the best Garmin watches for hunting. Each one offers a different balance of features, durability, and price, so you can pick the one that matches your next hunt.

How to Choose the Right Garmin Watch for Hunting

Choosing a Garmin watch for hunting is all about priorities. Do you want battery life that lasts for weeks, or mapping tools that help you track every step? Many hunters look for multi-band GPS to navigate tricky environments, along with ABC sensors for altitude, barometric pressure, and compass readings.

Features like stealth mode are crucial for those who want to move without broadcasting their position, while built-in flashlights can be a lifesaver after dark.

Solar charging can also be a game-changer, keeping your watch powered even on multi-day hunts. And don’t overlook durability scratch-resistant sapphire glass and reinforced bezels ensure your investment can survive scrapes with gear and brush.

At the end of the day, the right watch comes down to matching Garmin’s features with the type of hunting you do most. Here are the top five models built to thrive in the field.

Best Garmin Hunting Watches (2025)

Garmin Tactix 7 Pro Ballistics – $1,599.99

Garmin Tactix 7 Pro Ballistics

The Tactix 7 Pro Ballistics is the undisputed king of tactical hunting watches. With its dedicated Applied Ballistics calculator, it’s built specifically for precision shooters and long-range hunters.

The 51mm titanium build houses a Power Sapphire lens and a built-in flashlight, plus multi-band GPS for navigation in challenging terrain.

Battery life hits up to 37 days with solar charging, and stealth mode ensures your position stays private when you need it most.

It also has night vision compatibility, making it versatile for hunters who operate in low light or covert conditions.

Topographic mapping, weather data, and advanced ballistics tracking set it apart as more than just a smartwatch it’s a field tool you can depend on.

At $1,599.99, it’s premium, but no other watch on the market gives hunters this much specialized performance in one rugged package.

Garmin Fenix 7X Pro Sapphire Solar – $1,099.99

Garmin Fenix 7X Pro Sapphire Solar

For hunters who want a powerhouse without the ballistic calculator, the Fenix 7X Pro Sapphire Solar is a top-tier choice. The 51mm design includes a built-in flashlight for navigating after dark and Power Sapphire glass for serious durability.

Solar charging extends its battery up to 37 days, and the new Elevate V5 sensor improves heart rate and health tracking. Topographic maps, multiband GPS, and ABC sensors give you full control in the wild.

The flashlight feature is particularly useful for hunting camps or tracking after sunset, and the large display makes maps easy to read.

With stealth mode and expedition settings, this watch is built for extended hunts far off-grid. At $1,099.99, it’s still pricey, but the value lies in its unmatched endurance and ruggedness.

This model is perfect for hunters who want maximum durability and long-haul features without going full tactical.

Garmin Instinct 2X Solar Tactical Edition – $499.99

Garmin Instinct 2X Solar Tactical Edition

The Instinct 2X Solar Tactical Edition proves you don’t need to spend four figures to get serious hunting performance.

Rugged, lightweight, and solar-powered, this watch offers virtually unlimited battery life under the sun. Its tactical features include stealth mode, night vision compatibility, and dual-position GPS formats, which make it excellent for tracking movement discreetly.

The built-in flashlight provides added utility, while ABC sensors deliver reliable navigation data. At 50mm, it’s bold but not overwhelming, and the MIP display ensures excellent visibility even in bright conditions.

It doesn’t have advanced mapping like the Fenix or Tactix, but for most hunters, it delivers everything you need at half the price.

At $499.99, it’s a practical choice for anyone who wants rugged durability and hunting-specific features without breaking the bank. This watch punches far above its weight.

Garmin Enduro 2 – $1,099.99

Garmin Enduro 2

Hunters who need battery life above all else should look to the Enduro 2. Designed for ultra-endurance athletes, it translates perfectly into long hunting trips where charging opportunities are scarce.

With solar assist, it lasts up to 46 days in smartwatch mode and 150 hours in GPS mode. That’s more than enough for extended backcountry hunts.

The 51mm titanium build keeps it tough yet relatively light, and the Power Sapphire lens resists scratches in rough environments.

Features include topo maps, stamina tracking, and multi-band GPS for pinpoint navigation. While it doesn’t include a flashlight like the Fenix 7X Pro or Tactix 7, its insane battery life makes it unmatched for long hunts.

At $1,099.99, it’s built for the hunter who values endurance above all else and doesn’t want to worry about recharging during a week in the wild.

Garmin Instinct Crossover Solar Tactical – $499.99

Garmin Instinct Crossover Solar Tactical

The Instinct Crossover Solar Tactical blends analog style with tactical-grade features, making it one of the most unique hunting watches Garmin offers.

It combines solar charging with unlimited battery potential and a rugged design ready for harsh conditions. The analog hands give it a classic look, but underneath, you still get stealth mode, dual-position GPS, and night vision compatibility.

ABC sensors ensure reliable navigation, and the tactical focus makes it easy to move through the field without compromise.

The MIP display is sharp and visible in any light, and the watch itself is built to military-grade toughness standards. At $499.99, it’s one of the most affordable ways to get a hunting-ready Garmin without sacrificing style.

It’s perfect for hunters who want tactical performance but prefer a more traditional wristwatch appearance.

Conclusion

Garmin offers some of the most capable hunting watches available, and the right one depends on how you hunt.

The Tactix 7 Pro Ballistics is the ultimate precision tool, while the Fenix 7X Pro Sapphire Solar strikes a balance between endurance and versatility.

The Instinct series delivers tactical features at a lower price, and the Enduro 2 is the unmatched champion of battery life.

No matter which model you pick, each one delivers the durability, navigation, and stealth features hunters need in 2025. With Garmin on your wrist, you’re equipped to go farther and stay out longer.

Affordability is part of what Garmin is known for, but that doesn’t mean you won’t find a range of price points. Cost aside, you never want to overlook quality. I find this to be especially true with watches that involve a lot of digital features.

Looking for a blend of style, form, function, and affordability, I went on a hunt to find some of the cheapest watches Garmin has to offer. This is solely from a cost perspective, and isn’t necessarily a reflection of their physical qualities.

Nevertheless, when it comes to Garmin, this topic includes a variety of traditional, digital, and even fitness-inspired ideas. This article breaks into 9 of the cheapest Garmin watches for 2025.

Understanding the Garmin Strategy

With a strong focus on wearable tech, Garmin is more than just any other watchmaker. Part of what drives their popularity is their middle-ground stance on product features, quality, and the price point.

Many of their watch models are known for long-term functionality. I’d like to highlight that this is pertaining to battery life, where it’s common for many Garmin watches to last over a year on a single charge.

People love being able to seamlessly integrate wearable tech into everyday life. Garmin watches sync with Garmin Connect, which only enhances the experience even further.

I’m somewhat of a data nerd, so being able to track health and fitness data from many angles is a win. Don’t let this make you overlook the variety in Garmin watch designs. 

While you will find some feature sets to be universal, this isn’t to say they don’t have anything unique to consider. However, for this particular article, the cost is a big deciding factor. The Garmin watches mentioned below are some of the most affordable yet diverse from their current catalog.

Best Garmin Watches of 2025

We all like affordable products that last, and that’s an angle you can expect from pretty much any watch from Garmin. Keep in mind that the watches mentioned below are definitely affordable, but they’re also chosen due to my hands-on experience.

You’ll find a pretty decent price range involved here, including many different designs and features. Whether you have an active lifestyle, love wearable tech, or are a data nerd like me, the following watches might be your perfect fit.

1. Garmin vívofit® 4 (Ref. 010-01847-00)

Garmin vívofit® 4

Featuring a display that’s always visible and a form-fitting design, this design from Garmin hits several birds with one stone. Some might argue it’s more of a fitness band than a watch, but it tells time on top of a variety of smart features.

A few examples of this include active weather updates, alarms, and even Find My Phone. I was honestly surprised how all of this could be possible in such a slim design. As with many of Garmin’s watches, they continue to make it happen.

It’s also pretty responsive on its own without having to engage with it too much. They integrated a Move IQ feature that auto-detects activity and type. It also syncs with Garmin Connect, which provides much more insight and even social fitness and health challenges. In short, the vívofit® 4 is a lot more than what it seems on the surface.

Price: $79.99

2. Garmin vívosmart® 5 (Ref. 010-02645-00)

Garmin vívosmart® 5

Easily one of the most streamlined watches for health monitoring, the vívosmart® 5 is more than a step in the right direction. For me, it’s the smart features that kept me around. Most of which pertained to an easy integration with my phone. From calls, texts, and a majority of my app notifications, the watch can easily sync with your Android.

It’s important to note that it’s compatible with iPhones as well, but some features are exclusive to Android. Garmin has made it a point to highlight that this watch comes with an OLED touchscreen that’s 66% brighter than previous models.

Button navigation supports ease of use, and the bands are interchangeable if you’re looking for a different look on your wrist. I also want to point out that the watch can operate fine in the shower or for a shallow swim, but no deep water resistance.

The battery life on this watch is a bit more timid, lasting up to 7 days on a full charge. With other features like incident detection, LiveTrack, and syncing capabilities, there’s a lot to love about this watch.

Price: $149.99

3. Garmin Forerunner® 55 (Ref. 010-02562-00)

Garmin Forerunner® 55

For this watch, the fine print in the specs caught my interest. You get an MIP display that’s visible regardless of how bright it is outside. That display is also 1.04″, which I found to be the perfect size for my wrist.

The resolution is 208×208, and it comes with a chemically strengthened glass. I’d say that’s a perfect addition to those who tend to be a bit clumsy with their movements. If you live an active lifestyle, then you’ll get a kick out of the GPS and running-centric features. Track your pace, distance, and even specific intervals in your activity.

These features are partially supported by PacePro, and you’ll have all the data you need to improve performance over time. I wouldn’t consider myself extremely active, but I love having such detailed insight into my day-to-day health.

Price: $199.99

4. Garmin Forerunner® 165 (Ref. 010-02863-21)

Garmin Forerunner® 165

With a bright AMOLED screen and 1.2″ of screen space, this Garmin watch looks a bit sizable compared to some others. Aside from this quick observation, it doesn’t take long to discern how deep this watch’s features really go.

Check data on your VO2 Max, running power, and detailed insights on effective and efficient recovery. I’d say this one is definitely meant for people who are more serious about an active lifestyle. Thankfully, Garmin also made it stylish enough for everyday wear.

Features are important, but how the watch feels on the wrist is a huge deciding factor for me as well. Putting on this watch was a surprise, as it’s much lighter than I expected it to be.

You won’t get much water resistance out of this, so it’d be wise to keep it on dry land. It also works as a personal coach and motivator. I advise any of you to make use of the suggested workouts, predictive training, and Garmin Coach plans.

Price: $199.99

5. Garmin Instinct® E 40 mm (Ref. 010-02932-00)

Garmin Instinct® E 40 mm

Durable and compact designs are crucial when it comes to wearable tech. People are looking for a watch, but they’re also looking for something that can withstand some rugged use. Of course, this isn’t the case every day for me, but the tech-based features should be protected pretty well.

This isn’t like a mechanical watch where you can dive into replacing individual parts. With the Instinct E from Garmin, damage isn’t something you’ll have to worry about. It’s built with a 40mm fiber-reinforced polymer case. This is on top of chemically strengthened glass and a lightweight construction.

Wearers get some extended battery life with this watch model, lasting up to 14 days in smartwatch mode. However, if you’re using it in GPS mode, you have about 21 hours max. Dig into more than 30 activity profiles, health data, and compatibility with Garmin Connect and Connect IQ applications.

Price: $299.99

6. Garmin Venu® 3S (Ref. 010-02785-01)

Garmin Venu® 3S

It didn’t take long before I started to see the true value behind the Garmin Venu 3S. I can track sleep stages, HRV status, and even my skin temperature. If it sounds a bit specific, it’s meant to be. Your insights are highly personalized due to Body Battery tech and other features like Morning Report and Sleep Coach.

Even if you don’t actively check all of this, it’s always being tracked if you have it on. There are also over 30 GPS and sports-related apps built in. Regardless of how your active lifestyle adjusts, the watch can bend with you.

Smart connectivity makes your phone more hands-free than ever, too. Personally, they won me over with the inclusion of contactless payments and a seamless music navigation experience. I love not having to grab my wallet or phone throughout the day, so the efficiency here is more than worth the cost.

Price: $349.99

7. Garmin D2™ Air X10 (Ref. 010-02496-09)

Garmin D2™ Air X10

Don’t let the sleek design of this watch fool you, as it’s a lot more durable than you might expect. Built with Corning Gorilla Glass 3 and a stainless steel bezel, this smartwatch is built with the long term in mind.

I’m a fan of the simple hands-free communication, as well as the aviator-centric approach to its overall design. This can be seen in the Direct-To navigation, as well as the airport and flight-specific data. Check the HSI course needle, flight logs, and even airport weather, all on the wrist.

Clearly, an ideal choice for pilots or those in the airline industry. However, this shouldn’t overshadow the beneficial features for fitness and sports. I would say anyone who likes to keep a close watch on their health would do well with this Garmin watch. You can also take advantage of wellness assessments that cover many different angles of your day-to-day life.

Price: $549.99

8. Garmin Descent™ G2 (Ref. 010-02986-00)

Garmin Descent™ G2

I could get through this list without mentioning a Garmin watch that’s crafted with divers in mind. Many of the watches on this list don’t offer great water resistance, but that isn’t the case for the Garmin Descent G2. Out of many others in their catalog, I’d considered the display on this model to be a premium.

You get a lot of versatility for diving, such as several dive modes focused on recreational, technical, and even freediving situations. Integrated with the Garmin Dive app, you can also review dive logs. Of course, you can expect plenty of health data here as well. 24/7 monitoring delivers data on heart rate, stress levels, Pulse Ox, as well as data specific to women’s health.

I found this to be one of the most diverse watch models from Garmin so far. With this watch model, you get a staggering number of built-in sports apps. Finally, I got a huge kick out of the customization that’s possible with the vibrant watch face.

Price: $699.99

9. Garmin Enduro™ 3 (Ref. 010-02751-00)

Garmin Enduro™ 3

I’m a fan of a rugged-looking watch that doesn’t feel that way physically. This is exactly what you get with the Garmin Enduro 3. What really stood out to me here is the focus on training and recovery optimization. I was even more impressed once I got into the outdoor trail and navigation features.

Keep an eye on your VO2 max, recovery timeframes, and many other details pertaining to physical activity. I like a good hike, so the SATIQ multi-band GPS really got the job done. Not to mention its 320-hour battery life in GPS mode. Even if you’re in smartwatch mode only, you’re still getting at least 90 hours. A part of what puts this watch over other Garmin models for me is that dense battery life. 

You won’t really have to worry about where it’ll survive your outdoor activities, for the most part. There are also some helpful safety features like LED flashlight, red safety light, and even safety tracking features. After some time with this watch, I noticed I started to feel a lot more confident about my treks, as it has your back in more ways than one.

Price: $899.99

The Bottom Line

Most of us understand how many smartwatches there are in today’s market. Oversaturation can make it tough to find what’s right for you. This considers many unique details, but this list of Garmin watches has the variety you need.

From cost efficiency to special feature sets, durability, and style, Garmin knows how to cater to a broad audience. If you aren’t looking to break the bank, the watch models listed in this article are a great starting point. Then again, if you ever feel like some additional guidance would help, don’t hesitate to reach out to us at Exquisite Timpeieces.

Garmin Fenix 6 vs 7

Garmin’s Fenix series is renowned for its durability, advanced tracking, and outdoor performance. With the Fenix 7 bringing upgrades over the Fenix 6, is it worth upgrading? Let’s compare the two models to help you decide.

Design and Build Quality

​When comparing the design and build quality of the Garmin Fenix 6 and Fenix 7, both models exhibit the rugged durability characteristic of Garmin’s multisport watches. However, the Fenix 7 introduces several refinements that enhance its usability and resilience.​

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Size and Display

Both the Fenix 6 and Fenix 7 are available in three case sizes—42mm, 47mm, and 51mm—catering to different wrist sizes and preferences.

Each size variant maintains a consistent display size and resolution between the two models. However, the Fenix 7’s display benefits from the added touchscreen functionality, offering a more versatile user experience.​

In summary, while both the Fenix 6 and Fenix 7 uphold Garmin’s commitment to robust design and high-quality materials, the Fenix 7 introduces thoughtful enhancements that improve usability and durability, making it a compelling choice for both new users and those considering an upgrade.

Material and Durability

Garmin has consistently used premium materials in its Fenix series, and both the Fenix 6 and Fenix 7 continue this tradition. However, the Fenix 7 introduces a few upgrades that improve durability and overall build quality.

Metal vs. Resin Components

  • Fenix 6: Uses a combination of resin and stainless steel for its case and lugs, with some editions offering titanium for reduced weight.
  • Fenix 7: Upgrades the watch lugs from resin to full metal (stainless steel or titanium) across all editions, making it more durable and resistant to wear over time.

Sapphire and Solar Variants

Both models offer Sapphire editions with scratch-resistant sapphire crystal. However, Garmin enhanced the Sapphire Solar edition in the Fenix 7, combining solar charging with a sapphire lens—something the Fenix 6 did not feature.

Water Resistance and Rugged Build

Both watches maintain a 10 ATM water resistance rating (100 meters), making them suitable for swimming, snorkeling, and extreme conditions. They also meet MIL-STD-810G military-grade durability standards, ensuring resilience against shocks, extreme temperatures, and humidity.

Bezel Protection and Button Guards

  • The Fenix 7 refines its bezel design, making it slightly thinner for a sleeker appearance.
  • The button guards are more pronounced, reducing the chances of accidental presses during workouts or rough activities.

Final Thoughts on Material and Durability

The Garmin Fenix 7 refines the already durable design of the Fenix 6, offering stronger materials, better bezel protection, and a more premium feel. While both watches are built to withstand extreme conditions, the Fenix 7’s upgrades make it a better long-term investment for outdoor enthusiasts and athletes.

Battery Life and Solar Charging

Garmin Fenix 6

Battery performance is a critical factor when choosing a Garmin Fenix watch, especially for outdoor adventurers and endurance athletes. The Fenix 7 introduces significant improvements in battery life and solar charging efficiency, making it a compelling upgrade over the Fenix 6.

Battery Life Comparison

Garmin has optimized power management in the Fenix 7, allowing for longer battery life across all modes compared to the Fenix 6. Here’s how they stack up:

ModeGarmin Fenix 6Garmin Fenix 7
Smartwatch Mode14 days18 days
GPS Mode36 hours57 hours
Max Battery GPS72 hours136 hours
Expedition Mode28 days40 days

The Fenix 7 delivers notable improvements in GPS performance, making it ideal for ultra-endurance activities, long hikes, and multi-day adventures.

Solar Charging Enhancements

One of Garmin’s most significant upgrades in the Fenix 7 lineup is more efficient solar charging.

  • The Fenix 6 introduced Power Glass™ solar charging, but its efficiency was limited.
  • The Fenix 7’s updated Power Glass has a 54% larger solar panel surface, meaning more energy absorption from sunlight, extending battery life further.
  • Real-world tests indicate the Fenix 7 Solar can provide an additional 3-5 days in smartwatch mode when exposed to regular sunlight.

Battery Management and Power Modes

Both watches feature custom power modes, allowing users to tweak settings like GPS, sensors, and backlighting to extend battery life. However, the Fenix 7 refines power efficiency, especially when using multi-band GPS.

Final Thoughts on Battery and Solar Charging

The Garmin Fenix 7 is a clear winner when it comes to battery life, offering longer endurance, better solar charging, and improved efficiency in all modes. If you need a watch that lasts longer on a single charge, especially with GPS-intensive activities, the Fenix 7 is a worthwhile upgrade.

Performance and Navigation Features

Garmin has enhanced the software and hardware to provide better performance.

Processor and Speed

  • The Fenix 7 is faster thanks to a new processor, reducing lag when accessing menus and maps.

GPS Accuracy and Multi-Band GNSS

  • The Fenix 7 introduces multi-band GPS, improving accuracy in dense areas like forests and cities.
  • It also includes real-time stamina tracking to monitor energy levels more effectively.

Health and Fitness Tracking

Garmin Fenix 7

While both watches excel in fitness tracking, the Fenix 7 brings some additional sensors.

Heart Rate and Pulse Oximeter

  • Both feature wrist-based heart rate monitoring and SpO2 tracking for blood oxygen levels.
  • The Fenix 7 has an improved heart rate sensor for better accuracy during workouts.

New Training Features

  • Fenix 7 introduces stamina tracking, which estimates how much energy you have left in real time.
  • Enhanced recovery insights help athletes plan their training better.

Smart Features and Connectivity

Beyond fitness, these watches also serve as everyday smartwatches.

Music and Storage

  • Both models support Spotify, Deezer, and Amazon Music, with onboard storage for offline playback.
  • The Fenix 7 has more storage capacity, making it ideal for those who store maps and music.

Smart Notifications and Payments

  • Garmin Pay is available on both models for contactless payments.
  • Fenix 7 supports new third-party app integrations via Connect IQ.

Price and Value: Is It Worth the Upgrade?

The Fenix 7 brings meaningful improvements, but does it justify the price difference?

Price Comparison

  • Garmin Fenix 6: Starts at $499 (non-Pro model).
  • Garmin Fenix 7: Starts at $699, with Sapphire Solar editions costing more.

Who Should Buy the Fenix 6?

  • If you want a premium multisport watch at a lower price.
  • If touchscreen functionality isn’t a priority.

Who Should Buy the Fenix 7?

  • If you want the latest features like touchscreen and improved GPS.
  • If you need longer battery life and solar efficiency.

Final Verdict

Garmin Fenix 7 Green

Both watches are excellent, but the Fenix 7 is a better long-term investment due to its upgraded tech. If budget is a concern, the Fenix 6 remains a solid choice with great performance at a lower cost.

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