I just bought a used F5 for my father, so I thought I'll check out your video how thing were back then. It is so fun to see how far things have come in just 4-5 years. Aiming to reach 100 hours with GPS... in Ultratrac 😀
Garmin is based in Taiwan. In Mandarin Chinese, the number 4 is also a homonym for the character for death. It's considered unlucky and in some hospitals, there is no 4th floor.
I love the Fenix 3 series. Have had it for past 2 years. Short of the mapping feature on the Fenix 5X, would you upgrade to Fenix 5 or Fenix 5S for any reason beyond just having the latest and greatest?
Ed Kelley Excellent question. I've used my Fenix 3 extensively for several months and have serious trepidation about the Fenix 5x. My Fenix 3 does not have an HRM; I use the chest HRM and have had ZERO issues with the altimeter unlike HUNDREDS of Fenix 3HR owners around the world. Hoe can I be sure the Fenix 5x will have a flawless altimeter since it has the HRM? And the mapping...? Why would I need to see where the nearest pizza place is ON MY WATCH? When am I ever going to be in an urban area without my cell phone? And if I'm out in the wilderness, the map does no good unless I pay for the yearly subscription of Garmin's super special "satellite" view called "Bird's Eye"? Dumb. Of course, I can use the topo maps...but I can do that with much more screen resolution on my smart phone WITHOUT INTERNET CONNECTION. Don't get me wrong, if I didn't already have a fully functional Fenix 3, and if I had $800 laying around somewhere, i would buy the Fenix 5x without hesitation. But that's not the case, and I find it really tough to justify spending thatvsort of money for a watch when I can use it for a brand new top-notch cell phone!
I don't really understand how seriously anyone can trust a company who has released so many watches, with such prices, at the pace they have been following since few years, from Garmin Fenix 3, as well in Forerunner collection. Hopefully those who has accepted to pay premium prices for running and navigation devices, replaced by new model, a year later or so, are happy enough with their investments. I assess that the performances shall have been probably significantly improved since the F3 release and that consumers have been convinced of that. I have been one early buyer of the F3, full price, from a regretted 610, attracted by the huge communication and a watch that was showing off what I needed. that move had been a huge mistake, high frustrations and I left Garmin 4 months later, discouraged as much as by the lack of performance of the watch (navigation and GPS) as by the lack of respect from Garmin toward me and other customers who has been fouled.
Hi DC nice full (and fast) review on the Garmin Fenix 5 Series! How would you think they compare against the Garmin Chronos, e.g. Differences / benefits of both?
Great work DC Rainmaker. The Fenix 5S is more appealing to me than the other two, even though I'm a male and 6'5". The display is only .1" smaller but the bezels are smaller than the Fenix 5 and Fenix 5X. I had the Fenix 3 but sold it because it was too bulky and heavy when I played basketball.
What? Who plays basketball while wearing a watch? I haven't played anywhere that you wouldn't be asked to take it off b/c it's a real risk to the other plays where they can get scraped in the face by it (especially a burly and metal fenix or pete's sake!) or if the tip of someone's finger got caught by your watch - even for just a moment if they're hand is moving fast in the opposite direction at the time. Take your 'jewelry' off when you ball!
Lol I need the steps. If I get enough steps per quarter, I get money put into my hsa account at work. I never wore my Fenix 3 when playing ball since it altered my shot. I just play pick up games so it isn't as serious but there are many players who have fitness watches on.
Hi D.C. Great video. Wasn't sure if you could answer this at the moment. But I'll bring it up anyhow. With the Fenix 5, will we be able to auto-lap it after we hit the stop button? The reason why I'm asking, is because if I'm doing running intervals, I'd like to see the accurate distance and time per lap. Or even if I'm doing bike intervals on the trainer too. I know you have the interval setting. But problem is, if I'm doing ladder or different distances during the workout, it won't be able to customize the interval workout. I know with the Garmin 630 or 235, you can do that. Just don't have all the nice features on the Garmin 630 like you do on the Garmin 920 or Fenix series. That's one thing I miss about the old school Garmin 610. My last watch I owned before I got my Garmin 920. Thank you!
I don't understand how Garmin keeps putting out smart watches with very dull and hard to read watch faces - especially indoors. They need to take a look at the Samsung Gear 3 watch face, which is stunning, and try to learn something from South Korea.
jim cochran agree totally! My wife has the 235..which is awful to look at.. Simply awful and embarrassing. I have a Gear S3 (which I'm the first to say is not a real fitness watch but good enough for me) - and I often find people staring at my watch wondering what it is. It is AWESOME to look at. Battery life is good enough for me.. But the crap screen of Garmin watches = weeks of life.. Which I guess ultra sporty types want.
I gladly would have plunked the the $ for a new Fenix 5x if the screen was better. Sticking with my Fenix 3 HR for now - not a worthy upgrade. The screen on the Gear 3 looks gorgeous.
I was waiting for Fenix 3 successor with anxious expectations and was sceptical about the purchasing (or not) F3; But no more! With the deal - 340 euros for Fenix 3 silver performance bundle, i'm more than happy, considering the start prices of F5, and only minor upgrades... And wich won't come out till march 2017... imho...
Great review of the watch, helped my wife and I decide this is what she's looking for! Only question is to buy now or try and wait for some kind of sale...
These type of straps are quite a bit different though, due to the lock. It's similar to the Fitbit and other bands with internally locking mechanisms, which can only be unlocked from inside the wrist.
Hi DC, great video as always. When is the wifi on the watch being used actually? I plan to upgrade from Fenix3 to Fenix5. Thinking of non sapphire so I will lose the wifi. I prefer optical HR over HRM. I know i will lose GCT etc but I'm ok. Just not sure what I'm giving up by not having wifi. Are those update i always see on the watch on BT or wifi? Thanks!
I am interested in Garmin fenix 5, I already own a Garmin fenix 3 HR. My concern is the physical size, I don't want anything bigger anymore. How is the physical size of F5 compared to F3HR?
Dc!!! Tks for a great review as always. Does this lineup improve the wrist hrm reading or does it suck like the fenix 3 hr. Specially for runners. Tks.
I've been holding out for this exact reason. I had the Fenix 3 and even though I'm a big guy, it was too bulky and heavy for when I play basketball. I don't like the look of the vivoactive hr so I'm hoping they can introduce something stylish but with vivoactive hr's functionality.
Hi, I am really enjoying your great reviews, thanks a lot! I am going to Guatemala for a mountainbike trip soon and I am looking is there is a watch around that would help preventing getting lost, ( after I got lost in the Bolivian rain forest last year). My plan is riding around tracks that can be more or less official, but may incur in unmapped walking tracks. I currently have a fitbit charge 2 for tracking daily activities, and I could either get a whole new watch and sell this, or just get something specific for GPS routing. I have been looking at GPS watches that support GPX files for route navigation. I game down to narrow the selection to Garmin and Suunto brands but now I am quite indecise with the models. The Fenix 5x is probably the top, but also pricey, and not sure if it would be an overkill for me. The Fenix 3 seems like has GPX capability but for what I understood only through Apple laptops ( I use windows os). I have little interest in the smartwatch functions such as messages/email/facebook. My primary function is GPX navigation (if I find a budget option) or GPX+Fully activities (including HR, sleeping etc) and in that case it would substitute my current Fitbit What is your opinion? Cheers
Do you think this version of fenix will kill suunto spartian? How is with battery life? How topo maps looks like? I am using watch for hiking and usually do not need city view. Thanks
I would like to know how prone the bezel is to scratching. is it as sensitive as the fenix3? my fenix3 Sapphire has some nice marks from every day use that I think are unacceptable for such an expensive watch.
It's a real bummer that there is no proof of a paperless geocaching profile on the 5x. I understand it is a training/fitness/smart watch but with that price tag you would expect garmin to never leave out a feature that they had in the first fenix/tactix.
Are you going to test the optical rate sensor on the Fenix 5 and compare it to a standard HRM Strap? The optical HRM sensor accuracy is going to make or break this watch in terms of value worth spending up for it. It looks and sound like a great watch but I'm hoping they corrected the optical HRM sensor.
Hi Ray!! Just wondering if you can let me know once you review the device by replying to this if you're able to charge it while in an activity? Thanks! :)
Well I planned to upgrade my Apple watch to a Fenix 3 HR today. Now I'm curious if I should wait for a Fenix 5, or a price drop on the 3. Any recommendations?
Fenix 3 HR with price drop would be my recommendation. I have had it since it came out and love it. This is pretty much the same watch. I think you could save $200+
Diamond Fence Staining & Construction Yes, the Fenix 3 is dropping in price. Check out the RUclips channel Rizknows, does fitness reviews and has a site dedicated to deals. Great site. Good luck
Garmin should really re-consider their pricing for Fenix series there's no point for asking for premium price then drop it to %70 or less 6mths later,they are only harming their loyal day one consumers
I meant to 70% of the original price not off,for example Fenix 3HR MSRP was around $550 but you can find it easily for less than 450-400 later on ebay or Amazon
Original MSRP was $599 for Fenix3 HR. The official price is now $549. Not really sure I would count holiday sale prices (which have since ended), since all retailers discount at holidays.
Ebay and Amazon are re-sellers, if the item is "new" that are either 1) losing money on those transactions or b) the item is counterfeit/stolen/misrepresented in some way. Garmin has very strict rules on discounting their product below MSRP, so if you see a new garmin online for below MSRP buyer beware. Buy from a local dealer to make sure warranties and authenticity is guaranteed.
History says yes. The price has already been cut $50 (not worth it in my opinion), and then we saw another brief sale as well. IMHO, the price needs to be cut $100-$125 to be worth it.
Thank you for the reply. Since you have hands on experience with Fenix 5, do you think it is better to buy it paying the premium price or get the fenix 3 instead if the price cut is substantial?
doesn't look like it to me.... i have fenix 3 hr and love it. slight increase on screen and quick release straps are only changes i will miss. i assume software will update on all versions
lets hope so,about the software,if not they will lose all credits with me,because this fenix 3 hr its an amazing watch that costs a lot,i hope they can upgrade as well.
wifi uploads are much faster if you need to bulk upload, you can't get software updates over bluetooth and some large apps as well. No wifi isn't a deal breaker but its removal only to put it on higher end models is lame.
they skipped the 4 because means death but they just killed themselves with that price tag... Thank God I bought my Fenix 3 HR now I hope they don't sent bad updates just like they did with my Fenix 2
So the choice is a woman's watch or a boat anchor? If they can make is smaller, why not make the mens size a little slimmer so it doesn't look ridiculous.
It's a little bit underwhelming :( This is not really that much of an upgrade from the Fenix 3. I mean if you have a Fenix 3 already why spend $600 or a $1000 outside of the US for pretty watch straps and a mildly better UI.
Do you really need WiFi? Sync'ing via bluetooth works fine and Garmin does not have the ability to pass notifications via WiFi à la Android / Android Wear. I think it's one of those things that Garmin threw in to justify the $100 price difference to Sapphire glass. "Product differentiation". I would not be surprised if the electronics are the same in both and Wifi disabled either by software or hardware means (cut power line).
Nedim Celik Ya, I really love when I'm under the shower after a tough workout and my 920xt sounds as it has just uploaded everything...! I know that Bluetooth works fine though any smartphone but I think that in this price range Garmin should have added Wifi to every Fenix, it's just a basic think for >500$...they're doing a price hike and putting the Wifi only in the upper versions...I love this new Fenix but this doesn't sounds smart/fair to me
Xavier Tort My activities are long sync'd before I get into WiFi range. I don't particularly care if even my longest hours long activities take 5 seconds or 5 minutes to sync. By the time I put away the bike or catch my breath, it's all done. It's all in the background and if I had a choice I'd rather save the rather hard WiFi energy consumption. YMMV.
Nedim Celik I think that the real issue is: why Garmin isn't throwing a wifi chip into a device in this price range? It's ok to use the sapphire glass and the map to sell the watch at different price levels, but wifi is basilar in this segment....for somebody Bluetooth could be quicker, but a large bunch of people love the wifi and doesn't mind about sapphire at all
how much is this watch ?? I might be getting old: in my opinion the price is not justified for a watch that offers essentially the same thing as the others:: Im waiting Garmin will redeem themselves with the new 930 xt !! when will that be coming out ?, lets get serious now ! come on ! my 920xt is a never quitting mule but is hurting for an upgrade !
ThaBlissMC really? sport watch is the magic word? what more sensors does this fancy sport watch have? Or smarter system and faster CPU? I wonder how long will it take for Garmin to be cutting the prices in half or simply going out of business. open your eyes.
Odd, given Garmin outsold* Samsung in wearables in every quarter of 2016 (and Garmin sold over a million Fenix3 units last year). Not to mention that most of the Samsung 'shipments' weren't really sales of the device per se, but rather freebies tossed in with phone/tablet purchases. *See IDC numbers. Thus, I'd argue that Garmin seems to be doing something better than Samsung here...
Brian Wang Can it measure vertical oscillation?cadence?ground contact time?can it predict marathon end time?does its battery last for a month?and it has one of the worst HR sensors and rep counting sensors out there.Gear s3 is a fancy smartwatch and im not saying it is bad.It is great for what it does but Fenix is one hell of a watch.
Hi DC nice full (and fast) review on the Garmin Fenix 5 Series! How would you think they compare against the Garmin Chronos, e.g. Differences / benefits of bought?
I just bought a used F5 for my father, so I thought I'll check out your video how thing were back then. It is so fun to see how far things have come in just 4-5 years. Aiming to reach 100 hours with GPS... in Ultratrac 😀
Garmin is based in Taiwan. In Mandarin Chinese, the number 4 is also a homonym for the character for death. It's considered unlucky and in some hospitals, there is no 4th floor.
Thank you I love the speed you talk with. Lots of info in a short amount of time.
I've been rocking my fenix 2 for almost 2 years now. Still going strong.
Fenix 3 is by far the best "smart watch" i have ever owned. And I had a bunch already
Thanks Ray! Glad that they utilize inertial (gyro) navigation in their new watches! In aviation it has been for ages...
Thanks for the quick info! Still rocking my Fenix 3 from a couple years back and debating if the new features are worth upgrading.
I love the Fenix 3 series. Have had it for past 2 years.
Short of the mapping feature on the Fenix 5X, would you upgrade to Fenix 5 or Fenix 5S for any reason beyond just having the latest and greatest?
Ed Kelley Excellent question. I've used my Fenix 3 extensively for several months and have serious trepidation about the Fenix 5x. My Fenix 3 does not have an HRM; I use the chest HRM and have had ZERO issues with the altimeter unlike HUNDREDS of Fenix 3HR owners around the world. Hoe can I be sure the Fenix 5x will have a flawless altimeter since it has the HRM?
And the mapping...?
Why would I need to see where the nearest pizza place is ON MY WATCH? When am I ever going to be in an urban area without my cell phone? And if I'm out in the wilderness, the map does no good unless I pay for the yearly subscription of Garmin's super special "satellite" view called "Bird's Eye"? Dumb. Of course, I can use the topo maps...but I can do that with much more screen resolution on my smart phone WITHOUT INTERNET CONNECTION.
Don't get me wrong, if I didn't already have a fully functional Fenix 3, and if I had $800 laying around somewhere, i would buy the Fenix 5x without hesitation. But that's not the case, and I find it really tough to justify spending thatvsort of money for a watch when I can use it for a brand new top-notch cell phone!
I don't really understand how seriously anyone can trust a company who has released so many watches, with such prices, at the pace they have been following since few years, from Garmin Fenix 3, as well in Forerunner collection.
Hopefully those who has accepted to pay premium prices for running and navigation devices, replaced by new model, a year later or so, are happy enough with their investments.
I assess that the performances shall have been probably significantly improved since the F3 release and that consumers have been convinced of that.
I have been one early buyer of the F3, full price, from a regretted 610, attracted by the huge communication and a watch that was showing off what I needed. that move had been a huge mistake, high frustrations and I left Garmin 4 months later, discouraged as much as by the lack of performance of the watch (navigation and GPS) as by the lack of respect from Garmin toward me and other customers who has been fouled.
Michaël POINTEAU Good points.
I wonder how the GPS accuracy compares to the previous generation. Fenix 3 has the largest forum thread on GPS issues.
Carlos Vilacha : wondering the same ...
You did a great job on this review. Other reviews just a too slow and and Iove that to text ] graphic comparison
.
Hi DC nice full (and fast) review on the Garmin Fenix 5 Series! How would you think they compare against the Garmin Chronos, e.g. Differences / benefits of both?
Great work DC Rainmaker. The Fenix 5S is more appealing to me than the other two, even though I'm a male and 6'5". The display is only .1" smaller but the bezels are smaller than the Fenix 5 and Fenix 5X. I had the Fenix 3 but sold it because it was too bulky and heavy when I played basketball.
im leaning towards the 5s. the slim bezel and smaller form factor make it a clear winner imo!
What? Who plays basketball while wearing a watch? I haven't played anywhere that you wouldn't be asked to take it off b/c it's a real risk to the other plays where they can get scraped in the face by it (especially a burly and metal fenix or pete's sake!) or if the tip of someone's finger got caught by your watch - even for just a moment if they're hand is moving fast in the opposite direction at the time. Take your 'jewelry' off when you ball!
Lol I need the steps. If I get enough steps per quarter, I get money put into my hsa account at work. I never wore my Fenix 3 when playing ball since it altered my shot. I just play pick up games so it isn't as serious but there are many players who have fitness watches on.
Did Garmin change the glass? I see a lot of reflections...
Im Happy with my Fenix 2, I may upgrade in 3 or 4 years to this!
Does this have any free memory? Is there a possibility that eventually it will be able to store music?
Hi D.C. Great video. Wasn't sure if you could answer this at the moment. But I'll bring it up anyhow. With the Fenix 5, will we be able to auto-lap it after we hit the stop button? The reason why I'm asking, is because if I'm doing running intervals, I'd like to see the accurate distance and time per lap. Or even if I'm doing bike intervals on the trainer too. I know you have the interval setting. But problem is, if I'm doing ladder or different distances during the workout, it won't be able to customize the interval workout. I know with the Garmin 630 or 235, you can do that. Just don't have all the nice features on the Garmin 630 like you do on the Garmin 920 or Fenix series. That's one thing I miss about the old school Garmin 610. My last watch I owned before I got my Garmin 920. Thank you!
Love my Fenix 3 HR, but disappointed this the Fenix 5 - this is a very incremental update. I was hoping for an OLED screen!
Robert Kersting me too I thought they would go for a higher ppi, because for 700$ watch in my fenix 3hr I do see all the pixels on the hands
I don't understand how Garmin keeps putting out smart watches with very dull and hard to read watch faces - especially indoors. They need to take a look at the Samsung Gear 3 watch face, which is stunning, and try to learn something from South Korea.
jim cochran That's exactly what I was thinking...
jim cochran agree totally! My wife has the 235..which is awful to look at.. Simply awful and embarrassing. I have a Gear S3 (which I'm the first to say is not a real fitness watch but good enough for me) - and I often find people staring at my watch wondering what it is. It is AWESOME to look at. Battery life is good enough for me.. But the crap screen of Garmin watches = weeks of life.. Which I guess ultra sporty types want.
I gladly would have plunked the the $ for a new Fenix 5x if the screen was better. Sticking with my Fenix 3 HR for now - not a worthy upgrade. The screen on the Gear 3 looks gorgeous.
Just one question : do you know if the altimeter (hardware) was changed (improved) in comparison with the fenix 3?
I was waiting for Fenix 3 successor with anxious expectations and was sceptical about the purchasing (or not) F3;
But no more!
With the deal - 340 euros for Fenix 3 silver performance bundle, i'm more than happy, considering the start prices of F5, and only minor upgrades... And wich won't come out till march 2017... imho...
1 problem with garmin watches. the screen is way too dark unless you press a button.
Can you input a physical address into the 5x? will it give you turn by turn directions? Thx you have a great YT Channel.
You can't put in a street address, but you can search for a location (i.e. Chipotle or a hotel name). Or, you can use GPS coordinates.
Thanks for your quick reply! I'm going to order the Fénix 5X. Happy to say.
Great review of the watch, helped my wife and I decide this is what she's looking for! Only question is to buy now or try and wait for some kind of sale...
Nice vid... They increased memory on Fenix 5. Can it now have more than 2 connect iq data fiels per app?
Gr8 video! Do you think the extended memory will open for storing music on the watch and playing it directly with future apps/players?
Not keen on the easily detachable straps, I'm paranoid enough doing OW swims with my F3, we've seen various straps fail after less than 12 months use!
I wonder if one can use standard straps with the Fenix 5 watches instead of the ones that come with the detachable straps (I'd be a bit paranoid too).
These type of straps are quite a bit different though, due to the lock. It's similar to the Fitbit and other bands with internally locking mechanisms, which can only be unlocked from inside the wrist.
I switched to a nylon strap for my F3. However, it wouldn't be compatible with the new HR models because it would cover the sensor.
Hi DC, great video as always. When is the wifi on the watch being used actually? I plan to upgrade from Fenix3 to Fenix5. Thinking of non sapphire so I will lose the wifi. I prefer optical HR over HRM. I know i will lose GCT etc but I'm ok. Just not sure what I'm giving up by not having wifi. Are those update i always see on the watch on BT or wifi? Thanks!
I am interested in Garmin fenix 5, I already own a Garmin fenix 3 HR. My concern is the physical size, I don't want anything bigger anymore. How is the physical size of F5 compared to F3HR?
Apparently (from Garmin website) the "5x" is the same size as the 3hr. The others are slightly smaller and much smaller ("s" Model)
Dc!!! Tks for a great review as always. Does this lineup improve the wrist hrm reading or does it suck like the fenix 3 hr. Specially for runners. Tks.
Just bought a vivoactive hr. what makes me think CES is going to make me regret that decision
I've been holding out for this exact reason. I had the Fenix 3 and even though I'm a big guy, it was too bulky and heavy for when I play basketball. I don't like the look of the vivoactive hr so I'm hoping they can introduce something stylish but with vivoactive hr's functionality.
Those two are totally different price-points. If you bought the vivoactive ($250, $200 on sale), are you really considering the $600-850 fenix?
Does it support Chinese notifications in F5 series? I'm considering about F3HR or F5 currently... any suggestions?
great video, DC. THANKS!
Hi, I am really enjoying your great reviews, thanks a lot!
I am going to Guatemala for a mountainbike trip soon and I am looking is there is a watch around that would help preventing getting lost, ( after I got lost in the Bolivian rain forest last year).
My plan is riding around tracks that can be more or less official, but may incur in unmapped walking tracks.
I currently have a fitbit charge 2 for tracking daily activities, and I could either get a whole new watch and sell this, or just get something specific for GPS routing.
I have been looking at GPS watches that support GPX files for route navigation. I game down to narrow the selection to Garmin and Suunto brands but now I am quite indecise with the models. The Fenix 5x is probably the top, but also pricey, and not sure if it would be an overkill for me. The Fenix 3 seems like has GPX capability but for what I understood only through Apple laptops ( I use windows os).
I have little interest in the smartwatch functions such as messages/email/facebook. My primary function is GPX navigation (if I find a budget option) or GPX+Fully activities (including HR, sleeping etc) and in that case it would substitute my current Fitbit
What is your opinion?
Cheers
Do you think this version of fenix will kill suunto spartian?
How is with battery life?
How topo maps looks like? I am using watch for hiking and usually do not need city view.
Thanks
Thanks DC. I like your shirt.
You think its worth the upgrade from a Fenix 3 HR? Thanks for the review!
No wifi and wristbands that are bound to fall off for 599$? I'll stick to the Fenix 3 for now.. Bluetooth heartrate is nice though
I would like to know how prone the bezel is to scratching. is it as sensitive as the fenix3? my fenix3 Sapphire has some nice marks from every day use that I think are unacceptable for such an expensive watch.
Great review ! Thank you.
This is awesome. Thank you!!
It's a real bummer that there is no proof of a paperless geocaching profile on the 5x. I understand it is a training/fitness/smart watch but with that price tag you would expect garmin to never leave out a feature that they had in the first fenix/tactix.
Pine Bough City 603 Exactly! And why no ability to upload paper maps like some of the handhelds and the Epix?
would love to see a kit that makes the new bands compatible with the 3/3HR watches
They already are. :) All 5X bands are compatible with all 3/3HR watches. :)
oh good! I wasnt sure from the video if they were the same size, or if Garmin made them just for the 5 and beyond. Thanks Ray :)
Thanks Ray!
How is the compatibility with Garmin Alpha 100 and Fenix 5X?
Are you going to test the optical rate sensor on the Fenix 5 and compare it to a standard HRM Strap? The optical HRM sensor accuracy is going to make or break this watch in terms of value worth spending up for it. It looks and sound like a great watch but I'm hoping they corrected the optical HRM sensor.
Yup, as always within the full in-depth review I cover optical HR sensor accuracy against numerous additional sensors.
Any idea on timing for that?
Hi Ray!! Just wondering if you can let me know once you review the device by replying to this if you're able to charge it while in an activity? Thanks! :)
I wear my watch with the face on the underside on my wrist. Will this affect the HR function?
Yup...it’ll make it better. True indeed.
I already asked Rizknows about it but do you have any idea if these F5 bands will work with F3? Is it the same size?
Nevermind. I already find the answer, which is YES.
DC - great review, as always!! If could "upgrade" to the 5X for about $200, would that be worth it?
TheMrsWarhol No. Unless you do not have a modern smartphone with mapping.
How does this compare in size to the Garmin 920XT?
woooohooo! look at the price.. good luck Garmin.
Well I planned to upgrade my Apple watch to a Fenix 3 HR today. Now I'm curious if I should wait for a Fenix 5, or a price drop on the 3. Any recommendations?
$450 on amazon..good price
Fenix 3 HR with price drop would be my recommendation. I have had it since it came out and love it. This is pretty much the same watch. I think you could save $200+
Yeah I was going to have Bestbuy price match it at $450
Do y'all think the Fenix 3 HR will drop any more in price in the next couple of months?
Diamond Fence Staining & Construction Yes, the Fenix 3 is dropping in price. Check out the RUclips channel Rizknows, does fitness reviews and has a site dedicated to deals. Great site. Good luck
Do we know if the new Fenix 5 menu interface will become available to Fenix 3 with a firmware update?
No plans there.
Anyway to add mapping to the regular 5? Aftermarket or something?
I passed on the Fenix 3 due to its size, so I don't want the 5X.
No, unfortunately not. It lacks the storage as well as the higher end processor to handle the maps. :(
Drats. That's an absolute bummer. Thanks for the reply!
DC, you rock, what would we do without you bro.
You'd likely spend a lot less money...
Yes Sir!!
Hi people on the comment section. Does the fenix 5 pairs with decathlon's HRM? it's smart Bluetooth and ANT+ compatible.
its possible to make direction between two places ?
best info on these watches thus far. thanks man
can i store my music on one of them and go for a run without my Smartphone?
Garmin should really re-consider their pricing for Fenix series there's no point for asking for premium price then drop it to %70 or less 6mths later,they are only harming their loyal day one consumers
Haven't seen them drop any watches to 70% off within 6 months of launch (or heck, ever).
I meant to 70% of the original price not off,for example Fenix 3HR MSRP was around $550 but you can find it easily for less than 450-400 later on ebay or Amazon
Original MSRP was $599 for Fenix3 HR. The official price is now $549. Not really sure I would count holiday sale prices (which have since ended), since all retailers discount at holidays.
Ebay and Amazon are re-sellers, if the item is "new" that are either 1) losing money on those transactions or b) the item is counterfeit/stolen/misrepresented in some way. Garmin has very strict rules on discounting their product below MSRP, so if you see a new garmin online for below MSRP buyer beware. Buy from a local dealer to make sure warranties and authenticity is guaranteed.
Will the pricing of Fenix 3 go down once the Fenix 5 hits the market???
History says yes. The price has already been cut $50 (not worth it in my opinion), and then we saw another brief sale as well. IMHO, the price needs to be cut $100-$125 to be worth it.
Thank you for the reply. Since you have hands on experience with Fenix 5, do you think it is better to buy it paying the premium price or get the fenix 3 instead if the price cut is substantial?
I think if it's $100-$125 cheaper it's worthwhile, else I'd go Fenix5.
it works with social networks?
Does it worth the upgrade from my fenix 3 hr?
doesn't look like it to me.... i have fenix 3 hr and love it. slight increase on screen and quick release straps are only changes i will miss. i assume software will update on all versions
lets hope so,about the software,if not they will lose all credits with me,because this fenix 3 hr its an amazing watch that costs a lot,i hope they can upgrade as well.
Is the 24 hours of battery even with the HR on?
Yes, on constantly.
Sweet giveaway!
removing wifi from the base model is lame sauce.....
like you would ever use it anyway... that's what your smartphone is there for
I don't need my phone pairing with my watch ever so WiFi for me is important!
wifi uploads are much faster if you need to bulk upload, you can't get software updates over bluetooth and some large apps as well. No wifi isn't a deal breaker but its removal only to put it on higher end models is lame.
base model Fenix 3 did not have wifi
Actually, it did.
The garmin for running and exercise are great. But they're way too expensive.
tomtom does the job if you don't need anything fancy.
Jan Detlefsen Indeed. No fancy features, but solid GPS and HR tracking.
Marcos Lessa I agree I was trying to justify buying the forerunner 235 for 320. The same features one could get from a vivo active.
I know. I own a 920XT for triathlon. Is a great device, but I've paid $450. A lot of $.
should had added a rotating bezel for a better interface.
i want that t-shirt, where can i get it?
www.darkcycleclothing.com/products/shark-on-a-bicycle
Thanks
The top model Fenix 5x has only 50 hours of battery life as opposed to 75hr for Fenix 5.
Dope ass video sir
they skipped the 4 because means death but they just killed themselves with that price tag... Thank God I bought my Fenix 3 HR now I hope they don't sent bad updates just like they did with my Fenix 2
Love your tshirt!
So the choice is a woman's watch or a boat anchor? If they can make is smaller, why not make the mens size a little slimmer so it doesn't look ridiculous.
i like Garmin
nice shirt
It's a little bit underwhelming :( This is not really that much of an upgrade from the Fenix 3. I mean if you have a Fenix 3 already why spend $600 or a $1000 outside of the US for pretty watch straps and a mildly better UI.
Rise to "fast death"… 😂
No wifi with regular glass.....Garmin is mad
Do you really need WiFi? Sync'ing via bluetooth works fine and Garmin does not have the ability to pass notifications via WiFi à la Android / Android Wear.
I think it's one of those things that Garmin threw in to justify the $100 price difference to Sapphire glass. "Product differentiation". I would not be surprised if the electronics are the same in both and Wifi disabled either by software or hardware means (cut power line).
Nedim Celik Ya, I really love when I'm under the shower after a tough workout and my 920xt sounds as it has just uploaded everything...! I know that Bluetooth works fine though any smartphone but I think that in this price range Garmin should have added Wifi to every Fenix, it's just a basic think for >500$...they're doing a price hike and putting the Wifi only in the upper versions...I love this new Fenix but this doesn't sounds smart/fair to me
Synchronizing with wifi is x5 faster than bluetooth mode.
Xavier Tort My activities are long sync'd before I get into WiFi range. I don't particularly care if even my longest hours long activities take 5 seconds or 5 minutes to sync. By the time I put away the bike or catch my breath, it's all done. It's all in the background and if I had a choice I'd rather save the rather hard WiFi energy consumption. YMMV.
Nedim Celik I think that the real issue is: why Garmin isn't throwing a wifi chip into a device in this price range? It's ok to use the sapphire glass and the map to sell the watch at different price levels, but wifi is basilar in this segment....for somebody Bluetooth could be quicker, but a large bunch of people love the wifi and doesn't mind about sapphire at all
how much is this watch ?? I might be getting old: in my opinion the price is not justified for a watch that offers essentially the same thing as the others:: Im waiting Garmin will redeem themselves with the new 930 xt !! when will that be coming out ?, lets get serious now ! come on ! my 920xt is a never quitting mule but is hurting for an upgrade !
Please slow down a bit! It can get difficult to follow you sometimes!
too fast quit at 3:43
dude slowwwwww down when you talk
That is normal speed and I am no native speaker
Confusing.
just case for china ,there is no 4 hhhh
Nope
Thanks but you take to fast.
These basically cost twice as much as the galaxy gear 3. Really? With mindset like this, Garmin will be in big trouble.
Brian Wang this is a sports watch. Galaxy gear 3 is shit in comparison
ThaBlissMC really? sport watch is the magic word? what more sensors does this fancy sport watch have? Or smarter system and faster CPU? I wonder how long will it take for Garmin to be cutting the prices in half or simply going out of business. open your eyes.
Odd, given Garmin outsold* Samsung in wearables in every quarter of 2016 (and Garmin sold over a million Fenix3 units last year). Not to mention that most of the Samsung 'shipments' weren't really sales of the device per se, but rather freebies tossed in with phone/tablet purchases. *See IDC numbers.
Thus, I'd argue that Garmin seems to be doing something better than Samsung here...
Brian Wang Can it measure vertical oscillation?cadence?ground contact time?can it predict marathon end time?does its battery last for a month?and it has one of the worst HR sensors and rep counting sensors out there.Gear s3 is a fancy smartwatch and im not saying it is bad.It is great for what it does but Fenix is one hell of a watch.
DC Rainmaker yes sure , you can say the same thing for Motorola or Nokia vs apple in early 2006. Good point.
Crap. Garmin is a joke people. Don't buy it. Have one. Looks good only. Toys for kids not grownups.!!!!!
Hi DC nice full (and fast) review on the Garmin Fenix 5 Series! How would you think they compare against the Garmin Chronos, e.g. Differences / benefits of bought?