I really like the idea of an E (essential) version that is cheaper than the flagship but also without the bells and whistles that a lot of us don't need (or want) anyway. The real question as I see it is how you define "essentials" and to me that should, at $800, include sapphire glass and a torch.
Yeah, kinda feels like Garmin was worried about the E cannibalizing sales of the Fenix 8. Ok, fine. But then it seems kinda like a pointless device because I can spend the same amount of money (or similar) for either an older Fenix 7 Pro or a watch not in the Fenix lineup. That LED flashlight is ridiculously useful.
@@sarcasticpanda84can't imagine spending more than a phone on a watch. How are these watches costing so much. There is more hardware and software on a phone than a watch.
@@gambino883 The biggest thing for me is battery life. I had an Apple Watch Ultra, that thing would give me two days MAYBE. And I said, if I'm gonna be paying nearly $1,000 for a watch, I don't want to be tied to my charger. So, I bought Fenix 7 solar and I get a solid two weeks of battery life, has all the tracking and health features I could ask for and was a similar price. I'm grateful to be in a spot where I can afford something like this, but the fact that smartwatch manufacturers aren't giving us this kind of battery life is an issue.
If you buy the E you will always have buyer's remorse that you didn't get the 8, especially when Amazon inevitably reduce the price once the initial hype dies down a little.
Kudos for your exaustive reviews. Unbiased (which is not so granted among RUclips reviewers), very detailed and straight to the point. A breeze to go shopping, for any kind of customer. Unfortunately, I belong to the ever growing niche of budget conscious users who wish they can afford premium products but actually can't... For this reason I'm seriously considering a Suunto Race S as a viable option.
Nice video. I will take the Fenix E and change from my Fenix 7 which I really like. We will finally get Garmin in the shop where I work. No more polar👍🏾👍🏾👍🏾. And I will get it for a bit more than 500€👌🏾 so I have to change and will finally have amoled
I was looking at the Garmin epix pro but now and I’m leaning towards the fenix 8. Didn’t know about the Fenix E. I’m probably going to go with the Fenix 8. The GPS tracking upgrade is super important to me for mountain hiking in Nevada. I’ll probably wait till after new year to see if there will be any discounts on the Fenix 8. Thanks for the vid it was very informative
Thanks for this review :) I think you're the RUclipsr who has the most reviews and comparaison since the release of Garmin Fenix 8 - Enduro 3 and Fenix E :D To wrap up that great video series, I had a last video suggestion. If you feel like it, could you compare an Enduro 3 with a Fenix 8 and a Fenix E? Which one is targeted for whom? In which situation would you take one of the 3? It could be helpful for lots of people out there, I think since Garmin's branching out might not always be clear 😉 No pressure of course 😌 Big up from Brussels 🇧🇪
04:15 that's not how you use a pressure tester. you keep the watch lifted out of the water. pump to 6 bar or w/e then lower the watch and release the pressure. if air bubbles leak out of the watch after pressure is released, that means air got into it; aka water would also get into it = fail if no bubbles start popping out of the watch case it passes whatever depth you pumped it to.
I picked up an Epix Gen 2 Standard on Cabela's for 449 about a month ago, Now that is 599 on their website but super glad I could basically pick up a Fenix E for 449. I don't find this watch necessary for them to make and make the lineup more confusing
Have first tried the Suunto Race S - I loved the menu user interface - but the screen size was just to small (45mm) Next step could be the Suunto Race, but the screen size is 49 mm. This is just to huge for me. So I went for the Fenix E - screensize is 47 mm - which I received today. Also today I got the latest firmware update version 12.35. The Fenix E looks & feels like almost the same as the Suunto Race. I got Fenix E for € 550,-. I'm happy with the updated interface as well.
I can't justify paying that much when there are so many more affordable options that do what I want. But I think if money was not a concern, I would get the 8
The only time I see myself using the F8 microphone for anything would be during a hike and I happen to have my phone inside my backpack and I don’t feel like taking it out.
It has a lot of uses that you don’t realize until you have it. For example starting an activity that you don’t often use so it’s buried in the menus. Like if I randomly decide to play golf or pickleball (doesn’t happen often) I can simply say “start a golf activity” and the watch does the rest. There’s a lot of other use cases as well once you get the hang of it!
@@ChaseTheSummit Hey Dave. mic on F8 is really a joke beside some sos usage or hike as friend above mention. If they put LTE is another story. I can understand the dive feature and is usefull for recreational divers but the mic is a gimmick especially in that outdated hardware.
Been having trouble seeing small text on my watch. Using reading glasses now, but don't always have them on. Please feel free to point that out. It's the kind of thing that would make me by a new or different watch.
Another point of view: I liked that Garmin ported some features to older watches. I feel that my F7 Pro is not that outdated and should receive some of the new features. But as they have to separate the F7/Epix2 (non pro) from the E, probably my Pro watch is more or less restricted. Better hardware, worse software. Thanks Garmin.
I also have the F7 Pro and whether the software is better or worse is subjective. It's just different. The dynamic routing is interesting but I don't need that, and certainly wouldn't buy a whole new watch for it. I also just got a software update today. I'm sure it was mostly small fixes to existing features, but I'm perfectly happy with that.
I was a Garmin fan, currently having a 7X Pro Solar Titanium. If it will not be updated to the new software, probably this will be my last Garmin watch. Not because I need the new functions, but it’s not fair.
My problem with the E is you can get the Enduro 3 for only $50 more currently which has a sapphire lens, solar, flashlight, multiband and 32GB. The only downside is the Enduro is a little bigger and has the mip screen instead of AMOLED but that's to give Max battery life. The E should be priced around $650 with how many features it's missing
Nice vid ! Fun fact, Garmin mentioned at UTMB revealing those watches, they will not update EPIX gen2 and pro to new software of Fenix 8 because of hardware. Now the Fenix E is showing us that they are recycling an Epix gen2 hardware into a Fenix E with some Fenix 8 software.... :) Not sure they can really convince me here...
Nice comparison. Thanks for the info. Wish it was more simple! I don’t care about the flashlight and the smart features (they seem slow and clunky), but I would want multi-band and the latest HR sensor and the new software.
Can you do a comparison of the Coros Apex 2 Pro vs the Garmin Enduro 3? Might be a pretty good video with a decent comparison. I’d be interested in your overall take on the maps.
Do you think it would be a better option to spend one hundred dollars more for the Enduro 3? And does the Enduro 3 have the weather over lays like the fenix ?
Hi Dave, the 47mm amoled version, do you have any realistic battery numbers? With my F6 Sapphire i manage from a full charge like 4hrs week of gps running + another 2 to 3 Mtb ride per week and still have battery left .. I don’t use Bluetooth nor email/calls on the Watch but I am curious if the battery can last that much. Thank you 4 your videos , regards from Malta, EU
Do you think Garmin is pulling a fast one with this model? It's basically releasing again the Epix base model with a new software and a slightly different hardware... That would be ok if it was considerably cheaper.. Anyway, nice video! Thanks
I have a Fenix 6s pro, so I am certain I would love the Fenix E as an upgrade. However - non-sapphire for 800?!? I did seriously consider the Forerunner 965, but I will most likely just save up for the Fenix 8 (47mm amoled for Christmas or Black Friday, I guess) :)
Interesting video as usual although I will say that when I went to Amazon to price an Epix Gen 2 (47mm) the lowest price I saw was $750, so it's not that clear cut of a choice. If the Epix Gen 2 was in the $550-600 range then yes I agree, it would be a much more tempting option, Vs the Fenix E.
I feel like knowing the differences Between Fenix 7, Epix gen 2, Epix gen 2 Pro, Fenix 8, Fenix E, Forrunner 955, Forerunner 965 shold amout to BA in Garminology.
Does anyone have an opinion if all these watches work well? I had two Music 645 and they were horrible to the point Garmin sent me a Fénix 6 which has been excellent for a number of years now. The customer service is much better than many years ago when they did nothing but say “mail it to us with a $99 check and we’ll diagnose the problem”.
How long does it take for the Garmin Fenix 8 Solar to get a battery charge via solar power in direct sunlight? This will help me decide whether to buy the solar or amoled version.
Depends on what you want / need. The Forerunner 965 is probably the best feature to price ratio especially during sales but it's not as ruggedly built and doesn't come with a sapphire option. If you engage in a lot of demanding activities that could be a non-starter. Enduro 3 is a great option as well but pretty expensive.
Hi Dave, Nice review. I feel it is a incorrect assumption that the OHR is identical to that of Gen 2, Hardware wise it is same but what about the firmware? I believe Fenix E may have a improved HR accuracy compared to Gen 2, Your take please?
Same heart rate sensor and same underlying firmware that controls it so accuracy is identical and I've been seeing that in my testing since this video. It's a good sensor, Gen 5 is a better sensor but Gen 4 isn't bad!
So I have a tactix 7 AMOLED that is only a year old with way better hardware than the Fenix E but Garmin is saying that the UI isn't compatible with the older watches. How does that make any sense!? 🤔
Time will tell, but it seems like Garmin drew a line in the sand and is holding the new software for watches newer than Fenix 8 / Fenix E. This could change but it's what was explained to me. The Tactix 7 AMOLED is still an awesome watch though!
There are the bugs in the Fenix8.. Screen brightness in low light conditions makes my Felix 8 51 Amoled completely UNUSABLE!!! Also the watch lags even in the watch face menu.. it’s a horrible experience, never had these issues with my Fenix7X or my EPIXPRO 51!!
Again... I'd like to know why Garmin can't push newest UI on the Epix Pro Gen 2 since it is in fact a newer and better watch than the Fenix E, that really does not make any sense.
Yah….I got epix pro 47mm for $650 and I think it’s still a lot of money. At the same time it does feel like garmin is trying to push the limit of the extortion with Fenix 8 pricing. Anyone going for garmin now has a ton of cheaper options in their products line and I don’t think it’s necessary for them to hop on the hype train of new line. Also, no flashlight - no go for me 😅 I just got so used to it it’s unbelievable
Not buying yet. Have Epix Pro Gen 2 and FR265… but recently there was an update to software and my Epix was drained overnight…. Wonder if you have seen some problems with your watches in the past day or so…
I am a little bit disappointing of garmin because I have Epix Pro and that was and I believe it still is a very expensive watch. The watch is 1 year old and it will not update that is awful. If garmin wants more money just say give us $50 and we will update your watch. But this! I lost my trust in Garmin and next time maybe I will buy some less expensive Garmin or maybe another brand. And what I know more people are disappointed and I think Garmin made a very bad decision here. However this is very good video. I like you Chase keep going ❤.
Nice review! I think it’s missing the flashlight. That would have made it competitive. Also it looks like the watch is missing the Garmin logo and minutes marks they show in the pictures 🤔
The tick marks for time are there but they're hard to see as they are under the glass and on the darker model I have are sort of a gray color. In my lighting hard to see, in direct sunlight they pop a bit more.
hello, I ask you before I buy, which is better and more professional, I want your opinion between fenix 8 and Apple ultra 2 black , which one should I buy?
Can't understand why there used the elevate 4 h.r sensor and not the elevate 5 sensor, makes no sense i would rather have an epix2 pro or fenix 7pro and get the newer h.r sensor and a flash light for less money
It will be supported for a long time. As mentioned my 2012 Fenix 1 still works with Garmin Connect. However I doubt we’ll see new features on the Epix… it will keep what it’s got and keep on trucking.
Incorrect. Epix Gen 2 is based on the original Fenix 7 and has Gen 4 sensors. Epix PRO (not gen 2) is a newer version with new sensors. The "Gen 2" in the title is a bit confusing because it's the 2nd generation from the original Epix that came out way back in 2015 which was a square watch with mapping. They dropped the Epix as it didn't sell well but brought the name back in the "Gen 2" back in 2022. The Epix Pro which has new sensors came out in 2023. Hope that helps!
There is one thing i notice in all the reviews and comparisons, that no one talks about. Consider these points before you choose which model/version to buy... Titanium is exotic, light and sounds awesome (You want it, you need it! Right?), but it is way softer and scratches much more easily than stainless steel!! Think, these are big watches anyway, they catch on things and scratch. Also the few grams saved buying titanium will barely be noticeable on a side-by-side, but going straight to SS, you would never know! It's also not like anyone can see, "Ooh that's a titanium", you have to tell them - so why bother? Likewise, Sapphire glass also sounds awesome and exotic (I must have it!). However, if you think it won't scratch, think again, it will and does. So, for any watch of this price range (especially something you are doing activities with), you will want to put a 2$ toughened glass screen protector from Amazon over the glass to protect it (just like your phone). These are extremely protective of the underlying screen, completely blend in and so not noticeable at all, easy and cheap to replace. So why bother forking out the added expense of Sapphire or titanium?! I have a basic Epix gen 2, SS and normal glass. I put a screen protector on from day one and have had to replace it twice due to damage from climbing etc, but the underlying screen remains as good as it was out of the box. My SS bezel has also picked up some scratches, but as it is silver and SS the damage is way less noticeable than a darkened Titanium bezel (Don't get me wrong Darkened Titanium, hooks me in as much as the next man. If money doesn't matter, then this argument is dead, but for most of us, money matters, at least to some extent:)) Get the watch for sure, they are beautiful and awesome, but save yourself a small fortune and get the Stainless Steel, normal glass - especially if you do anything in the mountains or near rock! Love your reviews Dave - don't listen to the haters!!
SS is significantly heavier than titanium. For the scratches i agree and people should wake up. They hear the word titanium and they think is something like wolverine nails material. In titanium also matters the coating.
Titanium is actually stronger and more scratch resistant than steel but it can show surface layer scratches due to the oxidation layer being damaged. On the upside raw titanium can be "buffed out" to remove scratches like this. Stainless steel cannot since it's got a surface finish most of the time. Both are great materials though sort of depends on your preference. I think the big advantage to Titanium watches is the Sapphire Lens. Screen protectors work fine but they can look a little janky, scratch easily since they're standard glass, and can reduce the clarity of the display.
@@ChaseTheSummit Titanium is stronger than stainless steel in terms of strength-to-weight ratio. SS 304 or 316 have higher tensile strength than titanium.
@@ChaseTheSummit Hey Dave, nice discussion, I both agree and disagree. Titanium is a super lovely material and, like i said, money no object, i would pick it every time. However, while it is stronger than SS, it does have a lower Brinell rating (so less hard). I did run a quick check after reading your reply and the scratch resistance feedback seems to be mixed (although it should be directly relative to its Brinell rating). On the screen protectors, mine are toughened glass (whatever that actually means). If the standard screen is level with the bezel, I agree, adding one will look crap. But on the epix (not sure about the Fenix 8), the bezel is raised, so when you add the protector it runs flush with the bezel and blends perfectly. But, on a +1000$ activity watch, would you want to run the risk of not adding a protector, if it blends perfectly? As mentioned, I have replaced my protector twice after impacts and scratches that would have easily damaged a sapphire lens and the protection it gave was 100%. My point is simply that these are 'real-life, practical' considerations that no one talks about 👍
Cant believe you did not mention that biggest difference is that you get it in titanium and Saphire glass.. that is for me number 1 reason why to get this watch in first place. All other watches look like crap after 1 year and fenix looks like new after 10 years.
$800 for this watch feels excessive. Maybe the real comparison in terms of features and capabilities with the Amazfit T Rex 3 is the Phenix E, $800 vs $279.
I am a bit worried as Garmin start to remove features on their platform. Last feature, the objectives has just disappeared totally. Now if you want to fix you some objectives, you have to make it on a paper or on other platforms... What a pity. For sure, I will skip this release. I have some concerns with the quality of the new buttons and there is no useful new feature. Maybe the Garmin 9 :-)
Lets be honest we have pretty much plateaued in technology. None of us really need to upgrade anything. The iphone has been the same for years now. The only reason i am getting the Fenix 8 is becauae i have a bunch of gift cards for best buy that i never used. So pretty much buying it for 180 bucks.
200$ that is really small different and if you have 800$ for watch surely you able to spend extra 200$ for top model dont see a point to even consider that E model
There are dozens of complaints every day on Garmin forum, Facebook, RUclips... This update will come, that update will come... But every time an update comes, another problem occurs. Dear Garmin, instead of testing people like guinea pigs, wouldn't it be better if you did these tests before launching a device worth 1100 euros? Is it right to do this to thousands of people who bought the watch with great excitement and hope? (People don't collect 1200€ from trees...)
I don’t know why Dave got hate comments lately and Shane miller does not get any critique despite giving biased reviews on garmin and wahoo products. Good video!
@@ChaseTheSummithe is alright , he just needs to take his blindfolds off when reviewing Garmin. He also hardly comments on the negative experiences of his audience who use Garmin products. Anyways I am subscribing you right away. You are more authentic and sympathetic.
![Noob To Max With DRAGON REWORK In Blox Fruits [FULL MOVIE]](http://i.ytimg.com/vi/LnBMOinoOvA/mqdefault.jpg)
I really like the idea of an E (essential) version that is cheaper than the flagship but also without the bells and whistles that a lot of us don't need (or want) anyway. The real question as I see it is how you define "essentials" and to me that should, at $800, include sapphire glass and a torch.
Yeah, kinda feels like Garmin was worried about the E cannibalizing sales of the Fenix 8. Ok, fine. But then it seems kinda like a pointless device because I can spend the same amount of money (or similar) for either an older Fenix 7 Pro or a watch not in the Fenix lineup. That LED flashlight is ridiculously useful.
@@sarcasticpanda84can't imagine spending more than a phone on a watch. How are these watches costing so much. There is more hardware and software on a phone than a watch.
@@gambino883 The biggest thing for me is battery life. I had an Apple Watch Ultra, that thing would give me two days MAYBE. And I said, if I'm gonna be paying nearly $1,000 for a watch, I don't want to be tied to my charger. So, I bought Fenix 7 solar and I get a solid two weeks of battery life, has all the tracking and health features I could ask for and was a similar price. I'm grateful to be in a spot where I can afford something like this, but the fact that smartwatch manufacturers aren't giving us this kind of battery life is an issue.
@@sarcasticpanda84 ...or maybe spend a bit more and get the Enduro 3.
@@gambino883 A watch is a fair bit smaller so I guess that would make it more costly to produce?
If you buy the E you will always have buyer's remorse that you didn't get the 8, especially when Amazon inevitably reduce the price once the initial hype dies down a little.
Yes! Wait for the Fenix 9, and the Fenix 8 price will drop!
Still waiting!!
I'd buy 965 over Fenix E . No reason to pay that much $$$ for none sapphire fenix.
Forerunner is at $499 right now so is by far the best at that price
buy 955 it has better display
came here to say basically the same thing. the only thing i’d change about my 955 is adding sapphire. guerilla glass is real soft!
@@jakejoyrideThe 965 display is far superior to the 955.
@@therangersinger MIP is better ... (for me and some other 😄)
very good presentation both seem to be very good you give a good and detailed presentation well done 👍👍👍👍👍
No flashlight = instantly not worth it 😤 That really is the best feature and I use it every day
Thats because you are a neeerrd.
Jk
Or am I
Flashlight is essential for when you wake up in the middle of the night to pee.
The best things about new Garmin watches is the previous watch is on sale. The 955 is a great deal now on some sites.
Kudos for your exaustive reviews. Unbiased (which is not so granted among RUclips reviewers), very detailed and straight to the point.
A breeze to go shopping, for any kind of customer.
Unfortunately, I belong to the ever growing niche of budget conscious users who wish they can afford premium products but actually can't...
For this reason I'm seriously considering a Suunto Race S as a viable option.
Race S is a great watch!
Really love to have one of this fenix8s, it is just way too much for me. Even more expensive than monthly salary. Happy for those who can afford it.
Nice video. I will take the Fenix E and change from my Fenix 7 which I really like.
We will finally get Garmin in the shop where I work. No more polar👍🏾👍🏾👍🏾.
And I will get it for a bit more than 500€👌🏾 so I have to change and will finally have amoled
I was looking at the Garmin epix pro but now and I’m leaning towards the fenix 8. Didn’t know about the Fenix E. I’m probably going to go with the Fenix 8. The GPS tracking upgrade is super important to me for mountain hiking in Nevada. I’ll probably wait till after new year to see if there will be any discounts on the Fenix 8. Thanks for the vid it was very informative
With such price policy my next Garmin will be Coros))
Thanks for this review :) I think you're the RUclipsr who has the most reviews and comparaison since the release of Garmin Fenix 8 - Enduro 3 and Fenix E :D To wrap up that great video series, I had a last video suggestion. If you feel like it, could you compare an Enduro 3 with a Fenix 8 and a Fenix E? Which one is targeted for whom? In which situation would you take one of the 3?
It could be helpful for lots of people out there, I think since Garmin's branching out might not always be clear 😉
No pressure of course 😌
Big up from Brussels 🇧🇪
47mm Fenix 8 AMOLED it's perfect size for everyday!
04:15 that's not how you use a pressure tester.
you keep the watch lifted out of the water. pump to 6 bar or w/e
then lower the watch and release the pressure.
if air bubbles leak out of the watch after pressure is released, that means air got into it; aka water would also get into it = fail
if no bubbles start popping out of the watch case it passes whatever depth you pumped it to.
I picked up an Epix Gen 2 Standard on Cabela's for 449 about a month ago, Now that is 599 on their website but super glad I could basically pick up a Fenix E for 449. I don't find this watch necessary for them to make and make the lineup more confusing
I agree with you, Just step up to buy Fenix 8 or rather buy Epix gen 2 if you have limited budget.
Just got the EPIX Gen 2 sapphire titanium for $399 on Amazon days , hard to pass on that deal
Do you know if the Epix will get the same UI as the Fenix e/8?
@@bene4128 No, i dont think EPIX will get the same UI as Fenix8
Great video Dave,still like that Fenix 8,for a cheaper option, Amazfit T Rex 3 is great watch for exercises like weight lifting and bike training 💪🏽
My 6x pro just received a sofware update. :)
Have first tried the Suunto Race S - I loved the menu user interface - but the screen size was just to small (45mm) Next step could be the Suunto Race, but the screen size is 49 mm. This is just to huge for me. So I went for the Fenix E - screensize is 47 mm - which I received today. Also today I got the latest firmware update version 12.35. The Fenix E looks & feels like almost the same as the Suunto Race. I got Fenix E for € 550,-. I'm happy with the updated interface as well.
I can't justify paying that much when there are so many more affordable options that do what I want. But I think if money was not a concern, I would get the 8
For me there is significant difference between elevate 4 and 5 sensor so i would never go for E.
For good results you have to go with an belt anyway.
My epix pro gen 2 just downloaded the new software 18.14 and it says it has the garmin share thing.
Nice!
The only time I see myself using the F8 microphone for anything would be during a hike and I happen to have my phone inside my backpack and I don’t feel like taking it out.
It has a lot of uses that you don’t realize until you have it. For example starting an activity that you don’t often use so it’s buried in the menus. Like if I randomly decide to play golf or pickleball (doesn’t happen often) I can simply say “start a golf activity” and the watch does the rest. There’s a lot of other use cases as well once you get the hang of it!
@@ChaseTheSummit Hey Dave. mic on F8 is really a joke beside some sos usage or hike as friend above mention. If they put LTE is another story. I can understand the dive feature and is usefull for recreational divers but the mic is a gimmick especially in that outdated hardware.
Been having trouble seeing small text on my watch. Using reading glasses now, but don't always have them on. Please feel free to point that out. It's the kind of thing that would make me by a new or different watch.
With this new software you can adjust the size of text on the screen which is nice!
Another point of view: I liked that Garmin ported some features to older watches. I feel that my F7 Pro is not that outdated and should receive some of the new features. But as they have to separate the F7/Epix2 (non pro) from the E, probably my Pro watch is more or less restricted. Better hardware, worse software. Thanks Garmin.
I also have the F7 Pro and whether the software is better or worse is subjective. It's just different. The dynamic routing is interesting but I don't need that, and certainly wouldn't buy a whole new watch for it. I also just got a software update today. I'm sure it was mostly small fixes to existing features, but I'm perfectly happy with that.
@@dw3gt In general, you"re right. But the good feeling of "I bought a top notch watch and will get new features for a while" is somehow gone.
I was a Garmin fan, currently having a 7X Pro Solar Titanium. If it will not be updated to the new software, probably this will be my last Garmin watch. Not because I need the new functions, but it’s not fair.
Smashed it as always Dave! Hard to shallow this one, I really hope Garmin bend and actually update the "older" Epix range with the new software 😬❤
My problem with the E is you can get the Enduro 3 for only $50 more currently which has a sapphire lens, solar, flashlight, multiband and 32GB. The only downside is the Enduro is a little bigger and has the mip screen instead of AMOLED but that's to give Max battery life. The E should be priced around $650 with how many features it's missing
Thank you. Will keep my 7S pro solar.
I'd love a side by side on my brand new Epix Pro 51mm compared to the 51mm Fenix 8. Kinda pisses me off if that's true we won't get the new software.
You won't get the new software.
I'm definitely going for Fenix 8 ❤ in 2025 !!!
😂 I need to save up some cash 💵
Thanks for the video - it makes sense to invest in Fenix 8 than E
I have the Fenix 7 sapphire. Wish I had all those colors on the display.
Nice vid ! Fun fact, Garmin mentioned at UTMB revealing those watches, they will not update EPIX gen2 and pro to new software of Fenix 8 because of hardware. Now the Fenix E is showing us that they are recycling an Epix gen2 hardware into a Fenix E with some Fenix 8 software.... :) Not sure they can really convince me here...
Will you personally change your daily driver from the 965 to fenix 8?
Nice comparison. Thanks for the info. Wish it was more simple! I don’t care about the flashlight and the smart features (they seem slow and clunky), but I would want multi-band and the latest HR sensor and the new software.
Actually Epix 2 has garmin share option. just is set in quick menu options :)
Recently added!
Can you do a comparison of the Coros Apex 2 Pro vs the Garmin Enduro 3? Might be a pretty good video with a decent comparison. I’d be interested in your overall take on the maps.
Please do a comparison video on Garmin Fenix 8 solar and Garmin Enduro 3 solar.
If, and thats a big if, they launch the Tactix 8 MIP before black friday, I might consider get it. If not, will stay with my fenix 7 pro
Do you think it would be a better option to spend one hundred dollars more for the Enduro 3? And does the Enduro 3 have the weather over lays like the fenix ?
Hi Dave, the 47mm amoled version, do you have any realistic battery numbers? With my F6 Sapphire i manage from a full charge like 4hrs week of gps running + another 2 to 3 Mtb ride per week and still have battery left .. I don’t use Bluetooth nor email/calls on the Watch but I am curious if the battery can last that much. Thank you 4 your videos , regards from Malta, EU
With the always on display on and going on a run daily between an 30 mins to over an hour I’m getting 5ish days. With AOD off probably double that.
Thank you ! Much appreciated!
Do you think Garmin is pulling a fast one with this model? It's basically releasing again the Epix base model with a new software and a slightly different hardware... That would be ok if it was considerably cheaper..
Anyway, nice video! Thanks
They're not hiding the fact that it's a repackaged Epix G2 lol. So no, not a fast one. Is it an odd release? Yes.
Good work Dave.
I have a Fenix 6s pro, so I am certain I would love the Fenix E as an upgrade. However - non-sapphire for 800?!? I did seriously consider the Forerunner 965, but I will most likely just save up for the Fenix 8 (47mm amoled for Christmas or Black Friday, I guess) :)
I wish the CPU's were talked about more normally so Garmin can take the hint to upgrade them.
Interesting video as usual although I will say that when I went to Amazon to price an Epix Gen 2 (47mm) the lowest price I saw was $750, so it's not that clear cut of a choice. If the Epix Gen 2 was in the $550-600 range then yes I agree, it would be a much more tempting option, Vs the Fenix E.
Make sure you’re looking up Epix Gen 2 and not Epix Pro. The latter is much more expensive as it is newer.
@@ChaseTheSummit Excellent point. I will double check, thanks.
I feel like knowing the differences Between Fenix 7, Epix gen 2, Epix gen 2 Pro, Fenix 8, Fenix E, Forrunner 955, Forerunner 965 shold amout to BA in Garminology.
😂
👨🎓
epix pro gen 2, 51mm is the same price or cheaper than fenix E, so fenix E has no point
Besides future software updates you won't get on the epix...
Tbh the forerunner 965 keeps on sounding better and better. Particularly due to the price
955 sound like heaven
Does anyone have an opinion if all these watches work well? I had two Music 645 and they were horrible to the point Garmin sent me a Fénix 6 which has been excellent for a number of years now. The customer service is much better than many years ago when they did nothing but say “mail it to us with a $99 check and we’ll diagnose the problem”.
So fenix 8E is just rebranded Epix gen2
There’s no 8… just E. And yes the guts are the same hardware as the Epix G2 just with a new bezel and software.
How long does it take for the Garmin Fenix 8 Solar to get a battery charge via solar power in direct sunlight? This will help me decide whether to buy the solar or amoled version.
The battery doesn't "charge" it only mitigates battery loss.
@@ChaseTheSummit thanks for the answer
To wrap it up... the best choice of watch from Garmin looking at all specs and price are the FR965 and Enduro 3... or am i wrong?
Depends on what you want / need. The Forerunner 965 is probably the best feature to price ratio especially during sales but it's not as ruggedly built and doesn't come with a sapphire option. If you engage in a lot of demanding activities that could be a non-starter. Enduro 3 is a great option as well but pretty expensive.
@@ChaseTheSummit ultratrails and mountain bike! The Enduro should be more crash proof!🤣
Why would they use the v4 heart sensor?! Make it make sense! I don't understand this watch!
Great watch .. do u think 51 size is suitable and comfortable for daily usage.. appreciate ur reply and advice 💚
That’s a personal preference and will be influenced by your wrist size. With my 16.5cm wrists I don’t mind it but it’s not ideal. I prefer the 47mm.
Hi Dave,
Nice review.
I feel it is a incorrect assumption that the OHR is identical to that of Gen 2, Hardware wise it is same but what about the firmware? I believe Fenix E may have a improved HR accuracy compared to Gen 2, Your take please?
Same heart rate sensor and same underlying firmware that controls it so accuracy is identical and I've been seeing that in my testing since this video. It's a good sensor, Gen 5 is a better sensor but Gen 4 isn't bad!
So I have a tactix 7 AMOLED that is only a year old with way better hardware than the Fenix E but Garmin is saying that the UI isn't compatible with the older watches. How does that make any sense!? 🤔
Time will tell, but it seems like Garmin drew a line in the sand and is holding the new software for watches newer than Fenix 8 / Fenix E. This could change but it's what was explained to me. The Tactix 7 AMOLED is still an awesome watch though!
There are the bugs in the Fenix8.. Screen brightness in low light conditions makes my Felix 8 51 Amoled completely UNUSABLE!!! Also the watch lags even in the watch face menu.. it’s a horrible experience, never had these issues with my Fenix7X or my EPIXPRO 51!!
Hows the battery life? I hate charging often. Is like 2 weeks once for my instinct 2 solar.
16 days with AOD off / 6-7 days with AOD on / 32-38 hours in GPS with default settings.
Again... I'd like to know why Garmin can't push newest UI on the Epix Pro Gen 2 since it is in fact a newer and better watch than the Fenix E, that really does not make any sense.
Yah….I got epix pro 47mm for $650 and I think it’s still a lot of money. At the same time it does feel like garmin is trying to push the limit of the extortion with Fenix 8 pricing.
Anyone going for garmin now has a ton of cheaper options in their products line and I don’t think it’s necessary for them to hop on the hype train of new line.
Also, no flashlight - no go for me 😅 I just got so used to it it’s unbelievable
Not buying yet. Have Epix Pro Gen 2 and FR265… but recently there was an update to software and my Epix was drained overnight…. Wonder if you have seen some problems with your watches in the past day or so…
That can happen after a software update for a couple of days but it’s usually temporary and normalizes soon after.
I am a little bit disappointing of garmin because I have Epix Pro and that was and I believe it still is a very expensive watch. The watch is 1 year old and it will not update that is awful. If garmin wants more money just say give us $50 and we will update your watch. But this! I lost my trust in Garmin and next time maybe I will buy some less expensive Garmin or maybe another brand. And what I know more people are disappointed and I think Garmin made a very bad decision here. However this is very good video. I like you Chase keep going ❤.
On epix pro is still the best watch face with possibility use 12 data fields .
It seems youre better off getting a epix pro with Sapphire glass and titanium and the flash light the the gen 4 heart rate monitor
No smartwatch shoud cost over 600-650 in my opinion...
Bingo.
Fenix 7x sapphire solar can be found for 650 right now!
@@collinmorris new or used?
@@vadimilchuk5029 New
@@vadimilchuk5029 new!
Any chances to give away in trex 3...??
great work!
Did you hear something about
Fenix 8 Pro?
Do you know how to clear the phone call history off the 8 please
Click on the notification and select “clear”
No mate that works with notifications don’t clear the phone call history
Nice review! I think it’s missing the flashlight. That would have made it competitive. Also it looks like the watch is missing the Garmin logo and minutes marks they show in the pictures 🤔
The tick marks for time are there but they're hard to see as they are under the glass and on the darker model I have are sort of a gray color. In my lighting hard to see, in direct sunlight they pop a bit more.
Can you tell me the name of the watch face on the Fenix 8 ?
Comes pre installed.
hello, I ask you before I buy, which is better and more professional, I want your opinion between fenix 8 and Apple ultra 2 black , which one should I buy?
Ultra 3 does not exist.
Fenix 8
Can't understand why there used the elevate 4 h.r sensor and not the elevate 5 sensor, makes no sense i would rather have an epix2 pro or fenix 7pro and get the newer h.r sensor and a flash light for less money
Simply because they re-used Epix Gen 2 hardware. It's the exact same watch just with a slightly different look and different software. Quite odd!
How long do you think garmin will support epic gen 2?
It will be supported for a long time. As mentioned my 2012 Fenix 1 still works with Garmin Connect. However I doubt we’ll see new features on the Epix… it will keep what it’s got and keep on trucking.
What? Fenix E is amoled too?
I’m curious to the fenix 8 solar 🤓😁
Epix Gen2 has the same new sensors like Fenix 8, but Fenix E has the old one
Incorrect. Epix Gen 2 is based on the original Fenix 7 and has Gen 4 sensors. Epix PRO (not gen 2) is a newer version with new sensors. The "Gen 2" in the title is a bit confusing because it's the 2nd generation from the original Epix that came out way back in 2015 which was a square watch with mapping. They dropped the Epix as it didn't sell well but brought the name back in the "Gen 2" back in 2022. The Epix Pro which has new sensors came out in 2023. Hope that helps!
@@ChaseTheSummit Yes, I was wrong. I have Epix Pro Gen2 which I bought 4 months ago, and it has the sensors looking like Fenix 8 has
I just brought a Epix Pro 51 mm shall I just wait until they bring out another top range watch then
I think the Enduro is a better buy.
Enduro 3 is a great watch!
There is one thing i notice in all the reviews and comparisons, that no one talks about.
Consider these points before you choose which model/version to buy...
Titanium is exotic, light and sounds awesome (You want it, you need it! Right?), but it is way softer and scratches much more easily than stainless steel!!
Think, these are big watches anyway, they catch on things and scratch.
Also the few grams saved buying titanium will barely be noticeable on a side-by-side, but going straight to SS, you would never know!
It's also not like anyone can see, "Ooh that's a titanium", you have to tell them - so why bother?
Likewise, Sapphire glass also sounds awesome and exotic (I must have it!). However, if you think it won't scratch, think again, it will and does. So, for any watch of this price range (especially something you are doing activities with), you will want to put a 2$ toughened glass screen protector from Amazon over the glass to protect it (just like your phone). These are extremely protective of the underlying screen, completely blend in and so not noticeable at all, easy and cheap to replace. So why bother forking out the added expense of Sapphire or titanium?!
I have a basic Epix gen 2, SS and normal glass. I put a screen protector on from day one and have had to replace it twice due to damage from climbing etc, but the underlying screen remains as good as it was out of the box. My SS bezel has also picked up some scratches, but as it is silver and SS the damage is way less noticeable than a darkened Titanium bezel (Don't get me wrong Darkened Titanium, hooks me in as much as the next man. If money doesn't matter, then this argument is dead, but for most of us, money matters, at least to some extent:))
Get the watch for sure, they are beautiful and awesome, but save yourself a small fortune and get the Stainless Steel, normal glass - especially if you do anything in the mountains or near rock!
Love your reviews Dave - don't listen to the haters!!
SS is significantly heavier than titanium. For the scratches i agree and people should wake up. They hear the word titanium and they think is something like wolverine nails material. In titanium also matters the coating.
Titanium is actually stronger and more scratch resistant than steel but it can show surface layer scratches due to the oxidation layer being damaged. On the upside raw titanium can be "buffed out" to remove scratches like this. Stainless steel cannot since it's got a surface finish most of the time. Both are great materials though sort of depends on your preference. I think the big advantage to Titanium watches is the Sapphire Lens. Screen protectors work fine but they can look a little janky, scratch easily since they're standard glass, and can reduce the clarity of the display.
@@ChaseTheSummit Titanium is stronger than stainless steel in terms of strength-to-weight ratio. SS 304 or 316 have higher tensile strength than titanium.
@@ChaseTheSummit Hey Dave, nice discussion, I both agree and disagree. Titanium is a super lovely material and, like i said, money no object, i would pick it every time. However, while it is stronger than SS, it does have a lower Brinell rating (so less hard). I did run a quick check after reading your reply and the scratch resistance feedback seems to be mixed (although it should be directly relative to its Brinell rating).
On the screen protectors, mine are toughened glass (whatever that actually means). If the standard screen is level with the bezel, I agree, adding one will look crap. But on the epix (not sure about the Fenix 8), the bezel is raised, so when you add the protector it runs flush with the bezel and blends perfectly. But, on a +1000$ activity watch, would you want to run the risk of not adding a protector, if it blends perfectly?
As mentioned, I have replaced my protector twice after impacts and scratches that would have easily damaged a sapphire lens and the protection it gave was 100%.
My point is simply that these are 'real-life, practical' considerations that no one talks about 👍
The Epix gen2 came out 1 year ago, not 2.
It was launched on January 18, 2022 the Epix “Pro” came out in 2023… different watch.
@b4ds33d. More than 2.5 years ago
Cant believe you did not mention that biggest difference is that you get it in titanium and Saphire glass.. that is for me number 1 reason why to get this watch in first place. All other watches look like crap after 1 year and fenix looks like new after 10 years.
I do mention that the Fenix E does not come in sapphire during the first couple of minutes.
Just get a Fenix 7 Pro. On sale for like $700-800 now. This E is garbage. Garmin's marketing and sales team sucks. Great video as always.
Now - the Fenix E price has lowered to € 550,-
No multiband GPS is a bummer... at 700 USD, you better have dual-band GPS, evven 200 USD amazfit or 300 USD Coros Pace has it
$800 for this watch feels excessive. Maybe the real comparison in terms of features and capabilities with the Amazfit T Rex 3 is the Phenix E, $800 vs $279.
I am a bit worried as Garmin start to remove features on their platform. Last feature, the objectives has just disappeared totally. Now if you want to fix you some objectives, you have to make it on a paper or on other platforms... What a pity. For sure, I will skip this release. I have some concerns with the quality of the new buttons and there is no useful new feature. Maybe the Garmin 9 :-)
Lets be honest we have pretty much plateaued in technology. None of us really need to upgrade anything. The iphone has been the same for years now. The only reason i am getting the Fenix 8 is becauae i have a bunch of gift cards for best buy that i never used. So pretty much buying it for 180 bucks.
200$ that is really small different and if you have 800$ for watch surely you able to spend extra 200$ for top model dont see a point to even consider that E model
That's sort of my thought on it.
@@ChaseTheSummit Yeah I just said overall nothing against you 👍 , you did a great job sir 🤩🫶
No ECG ?
Not on Fenix E since it has the Gen 4 sensor.
The whole Fenix line this year is a massive let down. My next watch won’t be a Fenix
There are dozens of complaints every day on Garmin forum, Facebook, RUclips... This update will come, that update will come... But every time an update comes, another problem occurs. Dear Garmin, instead of testing people like guinea pigs, wouldn't it be better if you did these tests before launching a device worth 1100 euros? Is it right to do this to thousands of people who bought the watch with great excitement and hope? (People don't collect 1200€ from trees...)
Better the enduro 3
best Garmin watch
i keep watching these vids but my FR 45 still works so i'm just day dreaming
Ha! Keep that thing going as long as possible!
I don’t know why Dave got hate comments lately and Shane miller does not get any critique despite giving biased reviews on garmin and wahoo products.
Good video!
Shane makes great content but thank you for the kind words!
@@ChaseTheSummithe is alright , he just needs to take his blindfolds off when reviewing Garmin. He also hardly comments on the negative experiences of his audience who use Garmin products.
Anyways I am subscribing you right away. You are more authentic and sympathetic.
@@Gohealt I must get a different GPL feed than you. I don't recognize the one you get.
These watches are coming out faster than cell phones the fenix 7 havent breathe that long
Not really. Fenix 7 was released in January 2022. Phones come out on a yearly cadence. Garmin is on a 2-3 year cadence.
But why is there such a black ring around the display? Looks like solar but isn‘t? Looks totally awful, in my view…
Why is noone else reviewing the amazfit t-rex 3 and make every imaginable video with the new garmin again and again?
No multiband and flashlight is a sad joke
I was reaaaally hoping for the flashlight!
I tested my F7 Pro without multiband, and GPS was surprisingly accurate. But how they could leave out the flashlight, I don't understand Garmin.
it's upselling marketing tactic - only reason this product exist
Are these 51 or 47?
47mm the Fenix E only comes in that size.
@@ChaseTheSummit is your Fenix 8 47mm as well?
@@ericward2005both are 47mm
Ofc there is no low price 43mm.