Category: Watch Reviews

Garmin doesn’t just make watches, it builds rugged wrist machines. If you’re torn between the Fenix 7 and the Fenix 7 Pro, you’re not alone.

These aren’t just timepieces, they’re training tools, backcountry guides, and daily motivators wrapped in bulletproof cases.

The Fenix 7 series gives you plenty of choice at a lower price, while the 7 Pro line packs serious punch with upgraded sensors, solar charging, and even flashlights.

Both series offer full GPS, topo maps, HRV tracking, and beast mode battery life. So what’s the difference? That’s where we come in.

We’ve broken down 15 total models eight from the Fenix 7 lineup and seven from the 7 Pro family to help you find the perfect fit.

Whether you’re a trail running junkie or just want the toughest smartwatch around, this guide puts the two side-by-side so you can make a confident call. Let’s dive in.

How to Choose Between the Fenix 7 and Fenix 7 Pro

Not sure which Garmin Fenix is right for you? Start with how you train. The standard Fenix 7 series offers more entry points and wallet friendly options ideal for casual runners, hikers, or anyone dipping their toes into outdoor tracking.

You’ll still get Garmin’s full GPS suite, health tracking, and serious battery life without overloading your wrist.

The Fenix 7 Pro series? It’s all in. Every model has solar charging, multiband GPS, HRV status, and a built-in flashlight.

They also rock Garmin’s newest heart rate sensor and a sharper display for better readability. There’s no “lite” version here, just full-featured wearables ready for any challenge.

So if you want a budget friendly entry into the ecosystem, go Fenix 7. If you’re after cutting-edge tech and don’t mind the premium, the Pro line delivers in spades. The following models show you exactly what each tier brings to your wrist.

Best Garmin Fenix 7 Models (2025)

Fenix 7S Standard Edition – $699.99

The gateway drug to Garmin’s Fenix addiction. This 42mm compact warrior proves you don’t need solar charging when you’ve got outlets like a civilized human.

Sure, the screen won’t survive a knife fight, but when was the last time you actually went camping? It tracks your steps, heart rate, and the exact moment your workout motivation dies (usually around Tuesday).

The battery lasts 11 days or 11 hours if you actually use all the features. Perfect for people who buy hiking boots but mostly wear them to brunch.

The GPS works shockingly well for finding the nearest craft beer joint, and at this price, you can’t complain. Just don’t expect it to survive your next “extreme” adventure in the backyard.

Fenix 7 Standard Edition – $699.99

Garmin’s “just right” Goldilocks model – not too big, not too small, not too expensive. The 47mm face gives you better visibility without feeling like you’ve strapped a hockey puck to your wrist.

No fancy solar charging here, but let’s be real you weren’t going outside enough to make that worthwhile anyway. The MIP display looks straight out of 2012, but it works when sweaty, which is more than we can say for your smartphone.

Eighteen days of battery means you’ll lose the charger before the watch dies. Perfect for runners who want serious tracking without the “I own a $1,000 watch” target on their back. It won’t impress your gearhead friends, but it will survive your half-hearted attempts at becoming an athlete.

Fenix 7S Solar Edition – $799.99

Pay $100 extra for the privilege of… three extra days of battery life? That’s the solar promise on this 42mm compact. The Power Glass sounds impressive until you realize you work in an office and see sunlight approximately twice a week.

Still, it’s a solid package for petite wrists that want to look outdoorsy. The GPS tracks your location with unsettling accuracy, especially when you’re “working from home” at the beach.

Fourteen days of battery is plenty for your weekend warrior adventures, and the size means it won’t snag on your Patagonia vest.

Just don’t expect it to survive an actual mountain, the regular glass scratches if you look at it wrong. Best for people who want solar bragging rights without the 7X’s ridiculous bulk.

Fenix 7 Solar Edition – $799.99

The sweet spot for people who actually go outside sometimes. At 47mm, it’s big enough to read easily but won’t weigh down your wrist like a boat anchor.

Solar charging gives you 22 days of battery or as we call it, “three weekends of pretending to be outdoorsy.” The multiband GPS tracks your mid-life crisis hikes with depressing accuracy, and the training metrics will happily shame your sleep schedule.

No flashlight means you’ll need to use your phone like some kind of animal when camping. Perfect for people who want serious features without paying the titanium tax.

Just remember solar only works if you actually go outside, which we both know is questionable after January.

Fenix 7X Solar Edition – $899.99

The “compensating for something” model. At 51mm, this beast makes a statement specifically, “I own too much REI gear.”

The built-in flashlight is brighter than your future, and solar charging gives you 28 days of battery (or 28 minutes with all features on).

It’s like wearing a small computer on your wrist because that’s exactly what it is. Perfect for thru hikers, ultra runners, and people who unironically use the word “expedition.”

The size means it won’t fit under most sleeves, but let’s be honest you want people to see this flex. Just be prepared for the weight; after a full day, your left arm will be noticeably more jacked than your right. Wilderness survival is not guaranteed despite the price tag.

Fenix 7S Sapphire Solar Edition – $899.99

Proof that good things come in small packages. This 42mm titanium clad beast laughs at rocks, trees, and your weak grip strength.

The sapphire glass could probably survive a nuclear blast, which is good because you’ll need it after spending this much on a watch.

Solar charging adds negligible battery life unless you’re a desert nomad, but hey it looks cool. Fourteen days of power is plenty for your “extreme” commute to the coffee shop.

All the mapping and metrics you’ll never fully use, in a package that won’t overwhelm your dainty wrists. Perfect for minimalist adventurers who still want to flex on their hiking group.

Just don’t expect anyone to notice it’s the expensive version, they’ll just see a “small watch” and judge accordingly.

Fenix 7 Sapphire Solar Edition – $899.99

The “I’ve got nothing to prove” watch. All the 7 Solar’s features, now with a sapphire shield that could probably stop a bullet.

The 47mm size hits the sweet spot between readability and wearability, and the titanium bezel adds bling without screaming “I overpaid.”

Twenty two days of battery means you can forget to charge it for most of a month perfect for busy professionals who are definitely going to start training next week.

All the maps and metrics you’ll glance at once then ignore forever. The solar charging works if you actually go outside, which, let’s be honest, is questionable.

Best for athletes who want premium materials without looking like they’re trying too hard. It won’t make you faster, but it will make your Strava followers jealous.

Fenix 7X Sapphire Solar Edition – $999.99

The Terminator of watches. At 51mm with sapphire armor, this beast eats mountains for breakfast. Thirty seven days of battery life means you could probably hike the PCT without charging (if you had the willpower).

The flashlight is brighter than your career prospects, and the titanium build means it’ll outlive your relationships. Perfect for elite adventurers, doomsday preppers, and people who need to compensate for something.

It’s massive, it’s expensive, and it makes zero sense for 99% of people but damn if it isn’t cool. Just be prepared for the weight; wearing this is like having a small pet permanently attached to your wrist. Wilderness survival skills sold separately.

Best Garmin Fenix 7 Pro Models (2025)

Fenix 7S Pro Solar – $799.99

The “Pro” mostly means you paid more. This 42mm compact packs the new Elevate V5 sensor that’s… 5% more accurate than the old one.

The flashlight is cute but mostly useful for finding dropped snacks. Fourteen days of battery is plenty for your urban adventures, and the size means it won’t snag on your artisanal sweater.

Perfect for people who want to say they have a Pro model without the wrist strain of the bigger versions. Just don’t expect miracles, it’s still a tiny watch with tiny watch limitations. The solar charging works if you’re outside more than your houseplants, which, let’s be real, isn’t saying much.

Fenix 7S Pro Sapphire Solar – $899.99

All the Pro features crammed into a 42mm sapphire-clad package. The titanium bezel makes it look expensive because it is, while the solar charging adds… Well, not much unless you’re a desert nomad.

The flashlight is brighter than your last relationship, and the new heart rate sensor might actually notice when you’re stressed about your credit card bill.

Perfect for petite athletes with money to burn and something to prove. It’s durable enough to survive your bad decisions, and small enough that people might not immediately know you spent this much on a watch.

Just remember no amount of tech can actually make you faster up those hills, no matter what the marketing says.

Fenix 7 Pro Solar – $899.99

The sensible person’s Pro model. At 47mm, it’s big enough to be useful but won’t require wrist exercises to wear. The new V5 sensor actually makes a difference if you care about heart rate variability (you don’t), and the flashlight is handy for midnight snack raids.

Eighteen days of solar-powered battery is plenty for actual athletes and pretend athletes alike. Perfect for people who want cutting-edge tech without looking like they’re wearing a satellite dish.

The display is crisp enough to read while running, which is good because you’ll need distractions from how much running sucks. Just don’t expect it to make you faster that still requires actual effort, unfortunately.

Fenix 7 Pro Sapphire Solar – $999.99

The “I want the best but I’m not insane” option. Titanium construction means it’s light despite looking expensive, and the sapphire glass laughs at keys, rocks, and your general clumsiness.

Twenty two days of battery is enough for most mortals, and the solar charging might add a day if you actually go outside.

The new sensors provide data you’ll obsess over for a week then ignore forever. Perfect for serious athletes who still have some financial sense left.

It won’t make you faster, but it will make your Strava followers think you’re faster, which is basically the same thing. Just be prepared for the “you spent how much?!” comments from non-watch people.

Fenix 7X Pro Solar – $999.99

Big. Bold. Unapologetically extra. The 51mm 7X Pro Solar is for people who mean business or at least want to look like they do.

Twenty eight days of battery means you could forget to charge it for most of a month (you won’t). The flashlight is brighter than your future, and the solar charging works if you’re outside more than a vampire.

Perfect for expedition leaders, overprepared backpackers, and people who need to compensate for… something. It’s massive, it’s expensive, and it makes no sense for 90% of people but damn if it doesn’t feel cool to wear.

Just be warned after a full day, your left arm will be noticeably more swole than your right. Wilderness survival skills not included.

Fenix 7X Pro Sapphire Solar – $1,099.99

The undisputed king of overkill. This 51mm titanium beast is what happens when Garmin stops caring about practicality. Thirty seven days of battery life? Check.

Sapphire glass that could survive a nuclear blast? Check. Flashlight brighter than your career prospects? Double check. Perfect for elite athletes, military personnel, and people with more money than sense.

It’s massive, it’s expensive, and it will make all your hiking buddies jealous (or concerned).The ultimate flex for people who want the absolute best, consequences be damned.

Just don’t expect normal humans to understand why you need this they won’t. But you’ll know, and that’s what matters.

Fenix 7 Pro Sapphire Solar (Smaller Variant) – $999.99

Functionally identical to its bigger brother, just with slightly different styling to justify the price. Same titanium build, same sapphire glass, same 22 day battery life.

The main difference? This one comes in colors that match your Patagonia vest collection. Perfect for people who want all the Pro features but need to pretend they’re being subtle about it.

The flashlight still works for midnight snack raids, and the solar charging still requires actual sunlight (good luck with that).

It won’t make you faster or stronger, but it will make your gearhead friends nod approvingly. Just don’t expect anyone else to notice the difference to normies, it’s just another expensive watch.

Conclusion

Fenix 7 vs 7 Pro isn’t about right or wrong, it’s about what fits your goals. The Fenix 7 line offers more price points and simplicity. The 7 Pro series brings every bell, whistle, and flashlight Garmin could cram in.

Whether you’re tracking daily steps or crossing glaciers, one of these can handle your mission. Just remember no watch can actually make you an athlete. That part’s still on you. But hey, at least you’ll look good failing.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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.