Garmin Fenix 7 vs Epix // One Year Later...If I had to choose JUST ONE
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- Опубликовано: 4 сен 2024
- Long-term thoughts on the Garmin Epix and Fenix 7. If I had to choose JUST ONE...which would it be?
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#garmin #garminfenix7 #garminepix
Runners with their flashing red/white Fenix 7 lights are super appreciated when cycling, especially on an evening commute after dark. Any runner with a light, however, having one built into a watch is just one of those small touches that have probably avoided more near accidents that can be measured.
I love the flashlight on the Fenix 7x. I can't believe how often I use it. Just more convenient to use than always pulling out my phone. Thanks for the review
It's such a great feature 🔦
That flashlight is brilliant. It’s the the most used feature of my fénix 7 by far.
Completely agree!! 😃😃😃
love love LOVE the flashlight on my 7x. has gotten me out of a jam on more than one occasion.
Fully agree. I use the flash light on my 7X often and the main reason upgrading from older Fenix. The touch part is great as well
I was very close to getting the Epix but the much longer battery life of the Fenix 7 Solar Sapphire won me over in the end. No doubt the display is so much brighter on the Epix but being perfectly honest I have never regretted my choice, I have never had trouble reading the Fenix display, and I would go for the Fenix again if I had to make the decision over again today.
I really like the MIP display in sunlight.
@@theronwolf3296 Facts!
Took me a long time to convince myself to spend so much on a Fenix 7X, but I haven’t regretted it one day. Thanks for your great reviews and opinion pieces.
Agree! I’m loving the 7x too
Thanks for the thoughts. With a right settings, my epix lasts 19-21 days, with a daily 30-60 minute workouts (50% indoors). Used f7x, f7 and frankly speaking can't switch to them back, mainly because of the display. Also the size and slicker design of the Epix makes its job. Solar also doesn't makes a sense, if you are not working in the field all day long. I'm just missing a strobe flashlight during early morning runs, and nothing else)) So, looking forward seeing Epix X with 51mm amoled and a flashlight ;)
Would be very interested in your settings. Getting my Epix in the next week or so. Thank you.
@@Boleyn1895 here you are: screen - gesture mode, connection (bt, wifi) - off, on only when syncing, brightness 1/3, sleep mode - 10pm to 6am, extrenal sensor searching - off, on only when working out. Syncing my data mainly via wifi, once a week pairing with bt, to callibrate positioning of gps and software updates. Rarely using garmin express on my pc, only when a new area map needed. Please try it and comeback with your feedback after a couple of month :)
@@Doniyorbek_Turgunov Thank you so much. I've just returned an Enduro 2 as I hated the screen but really needed the battery life, 3 weeks with an Epix? Amazing. I definitely will report back. Thanks again.
I have epix and it lasts 2 weeks :) this is more than enough for me and my screen is bright enough as well. I love it :) in white.
I wish Epix had s edition. It’s too big for my wrist.
I went for the fenix 7 from apple watch 7. What nobody talks about is the long term affect of an amoled display that discharges the battery so rapidly. I'm assuming the battery of the epix and fenix have the same size. So after two years you will have triple the charging cycles on the amoled watch and the epix's battery is going to drain much faster, while the fenix will still work for some more years just fine.
I also hate these gestures for the amoled display. It happened all the time with my apple watch, that I'd get a vobration on the watch for a notification and I happen to have my hands (possibly resting) in a position where I can see the screen, but it doesn't prlvide the information until I start making awkward movements with my wrist. No amoled for me!
I have the epix, and I never had any issues with visibility outside. I feel like it is a choice between "great" and "more great". For me, the battery life is good also as I don't do any extreme endurance events, thus charging the device once per week is not a big deal compared to once a month. I like to take the watch out of my hand every now and then anyway.
So, I'm happy with my epix and thanks to DesFit as it was his review that I checked before buying :)
No problem and thanks for sharing your experience!
What's your wrist size and is the Epix feels bulky on your wrist I have a 17cm wrist and a bit skeptical about the size
Enduro 2 owner here. The battery and flashlight have become indispensable for my watch usage now. I work on construction sites over night occasionally and the flashlight is incredible! Not worrying about battery life while running is amazing as well.
yep, i went from fenix 6x to an epix and do not regret that one bit... would be very very difficult for me to go back to a transflective display which for me was really all about extending that battery life, if the epix was a 2 day at best watch like an apple watch it would be a no brainer and fenix every time but at 6 days and 16 days if you forget AOD its more than enough, im still charging the watch at worst once a week.
The reason I personally went with the Epix over the Fenix7 was for triathlon and open water swimming, where the Epix is much more readable underwater or at a quick glance. I also have tiny wrists so the 7x was never in question for me, wish they were able to cram a (smaller) flashlight into the regular sized case
Exactly. The hard choice is between 7x and Epix (especially because of the flashlight, but also bigger display and insane battery life). But I also could never pull off such a huge watch, and between 7 and Epix, for almost any use, Epix is a winner.
The Epix battery life is not enough for full iron man’s or ultra marathons. If you want that kind of continuous multi band gps usage go with the enduro 2 it beats them all.
@@thepatternforms859 its 42 hours in gps+activity mode. Thats plenty
@@cyberfunk9629 not for the Epix. The Epix won’t give those numbers. I have both the Epix and the Enduro 2 and the enduro 2 is far better
There is no reason for the fenix 7x series… either you get the Epix gen 2 or the Enduro 2 or both…. There is no reason to buy a fenix
I had Epix 2 for 2 months, but "went back" to Fenix 7X (had 6X before) mainly for the following reasons:
- the Epix display seemed too sharp and bright for my eyes mainly at night even with the lowest brightness set and I did not like the fact that in always-on mode, the display showed only very limited information
- larger display on 7X
- FLASHLIGHT!!! - Yes, absolutely amazing feature of 7X which I use many times EVERY day!
- lower visibility of Epix 2 in the direct sunlight - especially when used as "cycling computer" on the handle bar (another reasons for larger 7X)... I ride only with Fenix 7X on my handle bar and do not have any dedicated cycling computer.
- battery life... although I could live with 5 days battery on Epix, 10 days on 7X give me much more comfort
I have never regretted my switching back to 7X...
However, if Garmin came up with Epix 3 of the same size as 7X and with the flashlight, ...assuming that the battery would probably be also better (maybe could use the same elevated housing of Enduro 2) and would last 7-8 days, I would consider going with "Epix 3 despite the sometime hurting brightness of the amoled display and lower visibility at direct sunlight.
Note: I have 19.5 cm wrist and I am 196 cm tall (6′ 5") so Fenix 7X looks just right on my wrist
Reading this it's pretty interesting, you have predicted essentially the new Epix Pro (51mm option, with a flashlight and battery comparable to the Fenix)... what do you think?
I need help! 😞 don't know which choice
@@devniel Today, I'd choos Epix 2 Pro 51 mm if I did not have any Garmin.
@@devniel I've had my Epic Pro 51 for about 7 days now. Best decision ever. Display is beautiful, it's just so exciting to look at and a little extra motivation to get out and put in the work knowing this is with me everywhere I go. Maps are beautiful, screen is beautiful. I don't use the always on display because unless I'm looking at the screen, why do I care if it's on and draining its life? I'm still at 77% (24 days left). Get it if you can (although I'm biased). I think the F7 Pro is still a great choice and will prob be a bit easier to read in the sun, but there are small sacrifices that I am willing to make ie taking the extra 0.5 second to turn the display on with my wrist motion, or moving my arm to see the screen slightly better in direct sunlight. it's just not a big deal to me. if you can afford the epix pro (51 especially) go for it. I have tiny wrists and sure it might look slightly large but I'm used to it - it's not absurd at all. No one will tell the difference between the 47 and 51. I can't!
I tried Epix but constant dimming drove me nuts. I don't use a watch like this to read essays, I want that truly always on MIP display available all the time and readable outside without funny gestures or pressing light button. Epix is great if you use it indoors as a smartwatch but for outdoors it's Fenix all the way. Hopefully Garmin won't go all AMOLED on Forerunners...
Agree. Maybe forerunner 955 will be the last forerunner with MIP screen. Then when it's discontinued, it would become a rare watch hunting by every runner.
Too late, looks like they are.
Epix 2 for indoors ?…..I don’t agree. To my workouts is enoguh: cycling, running ….for two hours…good enough
Just flick your wrist to see the screen on the epix.
I have personally never had an issue with looking at the epix during the day. Again just move your wrist slightly if there is glare.
Would always go a AMOLED screen over a MIP screen. In my opinion the battery difference between both of them is pointless as you can just shower and come back and have 5 days worth of charge on the epix.
Just change the settings?
I have the fenix 7X. I average a bit over 2 hours daily activity. I love not having to manage the battery anymore. I also really appreciate the safety strobe for evening and night running. It gives my wife peace of mind that I am visible. I am happy with my choice. If I were to make the purchase today, I would get the Enduro 2 and have the extra battery range. It isn’t necessary but you cannot have too much.
how often do you have to charge with the strobe mode activated frequently?
I choose neither because they cost too much. I do like to just watch the videos though. Lol
Thanks!
Does cost but I have Fenix 6 sapphire. Worth every penny. 2 years with this watch still love it
@@livefreedrivenh6067 I’ve had the Fenix 5s standard since 2018 up until today, it still works like a champ but I just wanted to spoil myself and I finally decided to upgrade to the Fenix 7s Sapphire Solar. You’re right about it being worth every penny. You get what you pay for.
Fenix 7 Standard on sale currently $499 👍
Lol
I have an Epix after owning many Fenix models. When my girlfriend and I are outdoors together, I always prefer her Fenix 7 MIP display, but the EPIX is great for cloudy conditions, forests, and as a daily watch. I may end up with an Enduro 2 to have a MIP watch around with amazing battery life, and of course that flashlight!
Also went with the Fenix 7x Solar Pro for the flashlight - bonus is that it can also be changed to red. I really like the AMOLED screen on the Epix, but I have an iPhone that is nearly always with me so I wanted something with a longer battery life - too many gadgets which need charging regularly weekly or even daily.
100% agree here. I want it all. I want the flashlight on an Epix with mega battery life. 😆 Great comparison and great video Des!
Thanks Matt!
Next month it'll be 965 vs epix 2. I'll be interested to see that review.
Same. All around. Daily driver is enduro 2 bc of flashlight! I do like the 1.4" screen and longgg battery life, but the flashlight is so damn useful!
Team 🔦 !
I barely do any aoutdoor sports except for walking or hiking from time to time and I got the Enduro 2... I love the battery and the flashlight is just incredibly useful, can't live without it now. Plus, I got the Enduro 2 over the Fenix 7 x because a reviewer mentioned that the Enduro's flashlight was twice as bright as the Fenix. So yes, the flashlight got me.. Peace and love to all
Great and timely review. I’ve struggled for a while choosing between the two - battery life vs. Clarity/resolution. Ultimately I chose the Epix as the screen is awesome in all conditions, maps are far better, and I find the flashlight supper handy at nighttime. Night mode is great in terms of being in obtrusive. For the length of activities I do - xcountry, 2 to 3 day hikes, the battery life of 6 days is more than sufficient. Maps and GPS for hiking is why I bought this and it saved my butt in the Adirondacks on a poorly marked trail and the mapping resolution was really important. My criticism for both watches is the menu system is overly complex and can be unintuitive. All in all, you can’t go wrong. It’s all about how you value the trade offs based on your needs.
Hi, why are maps better on the Epix? Is the resolution/detail better? I thought the fenix display might be easier to read in direct sunlight.
Fenix 7X's flashlight is great (not on 47mm Fenix 7)
Resolution is clearer with more detail. No issue at all reading epic even in the most direct sunlight. It also has a basic flashlight, not like the 7X but still useful to find your way in our out of the tent or around a dark hotel room. I use it all the time.
@@mccrackenian at 7:38 he talks maps. Fenix 7 260 x 260 pixels, and the Epix 416 x 416. This is swaying me towards the Epix too.
In the snow here in South Dakota, I found the Epix insanely easy to view in the lowest display setting. In the brightest sun, even a quick glance was awesome, I don’t understand the claim that they’re less visible than the Fenix.
Garmin worked some magic on the Epix screen. I can't see an Iphone screen outdoors hardly at all. Epix, no problem whatsoever.
Thank you, I'm in Canada and was looking for comments regarding snowy condition.
I find AMOLED display off-putting when i work or before sleep, and i hate constantly having to change the brightness of it depending where i am and what hour of the day it is.
Also i find it a bit annoying seeing the watch go on and off on other wrists while we talk.
MIP 100% for me, for all reasons apart from indoors at night (but even then, i'm so used to turning on a backlight for decades now with CASIOS... so that's not an issue as well)
Great videos, great analysis, and you're so fair, polite , smart, and a great character, DesFit, well done!
This video helped me make my decision to move from Fenix to Epix. Love it
Glad it helped!
Have used Galaxy Watches since the Gear S2. I upgraded yearly and began to become frustrated with the poor battery life. I was eyeing the Fenix line up but that screen was the hold up. Enter..... Epix Gen 2. Incredible watch. Owned mine now for 11 months. Getting 10 to 11 days battery life in my set up. I occasionally use my Galaxy Watch 4 Classic since it has e-Sim connectivity with LTE service. I wish a future Epix release could have a true LTE connection with a carrier. That would be the perfect watch.
Jumped from Fenix3 to Epix2. The satisfaction was huge! Love it so much!
7X happy owner here! I do occasionally miss the OLED display of my previous 3 smartwatches, only when indoor. Outdoor the 7X visibility is much better, even when the backlight is off.
I never use the touchscreen. When navigating, I am either on my bike, using the larger screen of the Edge. Or use my phone.
I LOVE the torch, I use it every week.
But I love the battery life the most. I charge my watch when taking a shower. This keeps the battery between 30-70%. And I never leave the watch out of my wrist.
I love my Epix, upgraded from a 945lte and a Apple Watch before that. I was missing amoled while using the 945, it felt a little outdated without. I use the Epix as a daily driver, for running and golf. Des’ review last year was great and helped me making the right purchase. Keep up the great work👍
same, i returned my fenix 7 pro for epix pro cause of the amoled screen, its just so much better
One year later - and the choice has not become easier.
As a current owner of a Vivoactive 4, I wanted to upgrade to a watch that would give more training statistics, but still had a touch screen. Coming from an early generation OLED watch (the infamous Huami GTR), I know watchfaces just look better on an OLED display. But I also remember not being able to see the screen during workouts. And I like my VA4 to be dark until I touch the screen (the night/early morning issue you mentioned). So now I prefer MIP displays.
If the Forerunner 255 had a touch screen, this would be my natural choice (hobbyist runner, some walking/hiking, indoor running, rowing and elipsiod-training).
In my country, we get the 255Music for a tad under 300€, the FR955 at 370-380, the Fenix 7 base model for 420-30, FR265 for 415-440.
Should I - in 2024 - go for the Fenix 7 base (!) model, or jump back to OLED and get the FR265. Or dump the touch screen and just get a FR255Music? (I looked for good deals in the used market, but there are more expensive models available and even older ones. The ones I would like are probably the ones people keep still using.)
I had vivoactive 4 and moved to Forerunner 955 for same reasons as you. FR 955 size is same as VA 4 and has all features of Fenix 7.
Great summaries- organised and concise.
One thing not discussed much by anyone is batteries.
Yep, BATTERIES.
How many electronic devices have failed due to battery death,?, I ‘ve lost count. Now there is no major phone that does not have an inbuilt battery. Remember when most phones had a removable battery?
All these watches have inbuilt rechargeable batteries and there is one truth about batteries that you cant escape.
All batteries have a lifespan and that is often summarised by maximum number of charges before a battery reaches 80% of original fully charged capacity. Most people begin to think of replacement at this point
For e bike(500 charging cycles) and car (1000+? cycles ) batteries the charging cycles are very large. I am not an electrical engineer but I would bet $100 that smartwatch batteries are less than 150 - 200 charging cycles before their performance degrades. For example my newest BOSCH 500 Wh battery is at 95% of new status after 55 charging cycles.
The less you have to charge a battery the longer it will last. Solar charging is great as it will decrease the number of times the watch will have to be recharged over the life of the watch. Instead the watch slowly trickle charges on solar greatly reducing the time spent on a fast charger = greater battery health.
This is a VERY important consideration, and is enough to sway me to buy a solar watch of any model.
I did have a Garmin 3 from 2006, it was a brick at the time - it never lost its gps ! and its battery lasted 3x longer than my later forerunner (cant remember its model - piece of junk).
As a consequence my old Garmin still works , while my newer Garmin is already dead and buried - its battery died - overcharging, it battery life was terrible ?
The recent Fenix 7 pro is the way to go for me, the new sensors ( which may be used for ECG , BP monitoring , etc with regulatory approval) and the LED light plus normal Fenix 7 features does it.
Dude, that is not how battery health works. A watch with solar charging will be as bad as the same without, if not even worse, since it can be near max capacity for a longer time if it's kept at a high charge with solar. Lithium batteries should not be near max charge for a long time
I’m looking forward to seeing a comparison between the new Forerunner 965 and Epix2
I had a Fenix 3hr, and now have the 6X Pro Solar. Im wanting the Epix Pro now. For me the deciding factor is the red shift mode of the Epix Pro. I really like that feature for night time. Hoping to get one soon.
I went from the Fenix 5 to the Epix Gen 2. I went back and forth trying to decide between the Epix Gen 2 and the Fenix 7. I do like the display look the Epix Gen 2. I considered the Apple Watch Ultra, but ultimately I'm used to the battery life of Garmin watches. Nice video to let people know that may be on the fence about the Fenix 7 and Epix Gen 2.
I ended up with the Quatix 7 Sapphire over Epix 2. I've been wearing Marq Explorer for several years (it was 1/2 off at Costco) and I am happy with the upgrade and ALOMED display.
I had the Epix 2. I sent it back and got the Enduro 2. It’s huge on my wrist but love the flashlight, battery life, and large display for my eyes. I also received the Apple Watch Ultra for Valentine’s Day. While Garmin is my preferred running watch, I’ve been impressed with the Apple Watch Ultra.
I've had the Epix, and now I have the F7X Sapphire Solar Titanium. The Epix, to me, felt to Apple Watch like. My opinion mind.
I've had the F7X for a while now and I can't take it off.
Battery life, size, outdoor visibility and torch are a few of the things that make this the better pick up than the Epix, for me.
Good video mate.
I had the Epix Gen 2, great watch but went back to the Instinct 2 Solar. I love the lightweight easy to read and massive battery life of the instinct 2.
MIP all the way. Had it in vivo4 and F6 and so on. Never problem with display clarity or readability, excellent battery compared to brighter displays. Frankly, I don't need "phone" type watch display.
DesFit I've only recently seen your reviews and appreciate the in depth detail you put into them. Keep it up....your review of these two watches helped me decide on buying the Epix 2.
Thanks so much for the kind words and enjoy your watch!
Very nice, detailed thoughts. You provided a ton of value here for deciding. Very interested to see how they bundle features in the next versions.
Thanks so much!
I got a Fenix 7 solar on Black Friday. I do admit that the screen is not as pretty. I work outside, so the transflective display is the way to go. With solar, I get around 3 weeks per charge. I'm thinking that number will go up when we get more sunny days in summer, though.
Absolutely love the Epix. Had the Fenix 6 Pro, then briefly the Apple Watch Ultra. But the capability of the Garmin with the beauty of that screen and touch control is an absolute winner for me.
I bought the epix 2, as nothing beats amoled/oled. It is easy to charge battery once a week, but you cant do nothing to make the display look better (on fenix). But both have their use cases. I also hate "back light bleed" so I always choose oled over anything else, that contrast is just nice to the eyes and when you are used to have oled in almost every device you own, non-oled screens look pretty ugly.
Exactly
U r right
I'm now replacing my Tactiz 7 pro to Epix 2 Pro
Still on fenix 5 because it’s good enough. I hope Fenix 8 brings something worthy of upgrading to.
Thanks, spot on video, it was my challenge as well. Coming from Fenix 6 pro, I found screen of Fenix 7 (especially sapphire) less contrast, more reflective and more difficult to read. I was really disappointed and then moved to epix2. It's a bit annoying to recharge every 5 days. But overall I came to the same conclusion and kept epix. However, ideally I'd prefer all new functionality in Fenix 6 case and screen (no touch screen, no solar)
Totally on board with this comment... I love my Fenix 6x pro solar more than my previous Fenix 6 base model, but... Miss the readability and "printed on paper" effect of it's display, the 6x pro solar is good but the solar panel makes it a little less good than the plain Fenix 6.
The Fenix 7 is even worst with the additional overlay of the touchscreen digitizer, which becomes even "worster" in case of sapphire lens...
Really wish there was a Fenix 7x with plain gorilla glass, preferably even without the touchscreen, and even better if they used the real estate dedicated to the solar ring for more display surface - how about a 1.6" 300x300 or 320x320?
Reason I love the MiP screens... Well they make the watch look like... A watch! That does not emit its own light actively, I actually enjoy having to angle it in low light to see the screen, like on any analog watch. Admittedly, I am getting old, and so is my taste, apparently :)
Team Epix. I had a F7X SS for a while, but the resolution and contrast of the amoled display has no competition. I don't think I'll ever go back to a MIP screen.
Thanks for the review. I went for the Fenix 7 for the better battery life suited to Ultrarunners and the Solar option, which seems to help reduce battery draining on sunny days. Our planet's ressources are not unlimited! I don't need a super display, I got my phone for that. Also I have more trust in the Fenix display on the long run. I tend to think that the brighter, the shinier, the better it looks, the shorter it's gonna hold until it breaks down. Time will say!
Shut up you ❄️
im very new to running.. or rather i have not run on 6 years but now im gonna start running seriously again and i have chosen to buy the garmin epix
Hey des, I've been thinking about this for so long now and before i just kept watching your full reviews about the two. good to see there is a comparison video from you now
Good timing!
@@DesFit this is also right before i'm considering getting a large sports watch because i've been getting into diving lately and the apple watch ultra seems like a better choice
I just purchased the Epix. I wanted the AMOLED display and couldn’t be happier with the choice. This is my first smart watch or sports watch and I don’t have anything to compare it to but seeing friends and family with the Apple Watch I did want something with a similar screen. Solar charging while interesting didn’t seem like it would contribute all that much to my overall battery life so that wasn’t really something I chose to factor in.
Thanks for sharing your thoughts and glad you're happy with your watch!
Thank for a great video, straight to the point and no fuzz. I love my Epix 2. Never had problem reading the display outdoor. I gave away my Fenix 6X to a friend, since I completely stoped using it after getting the Epix watch a year ago.
Glad you're enjoying your watch. Thanks!
So, I went to the shop to exchange my fenix 6 because of your video:) I spent one day with the fenix 7 and found that the watch is much larger for the same 147 line and did not like the sapphire reflection or the backlight at night. I returned the watch. There is a lot going on inside but the watch does not look as good as the previous generation
Since you asked, I went from the fenix 6X pro to the Epix 2, and I’ll never look back. I went from 95% Apple Watch (4 or 6) / 5% fenix 6X to more like 60% Apple Watch Ultra / 40% Epix 2. Still prefer the Apple Watch (especially Ultra) but Epix 2 really closed the gap for me. Feels way better on the wrist than fenix did too. Thanks for the content… always love it.
I’m an apple ultra user.. thinking of going over to garmin. I’m stuck I like the look of the fenix 7 battery and flashlight but not sure about the screen so the epix could be the one but not sure
Had a Tactix Delta, switched to the Tactix 7 a year ago, both in Solar and Ballistics mainly because of the touch feature when scrolling the map.
The Tactix 7 is a beast of a watch. The way I'm using it in general (No music, limited use of bluetooth/wifi, HR always on, HRV at night, and 0,75-2h a day of outdoor running with highest GPS settings, etc.) gives me around 3-4 weeks of battery life.
I was looking forward to the Tactix 8, but now I'm not so sure anymore as the main reason was the screen...
Well let's see with what they will come up.🤞
I switched my old Fenix 6 for Enduro 2 and I couldn't be more happy with it. When deciding, flashlight was just a gimmick for me and now I am very surprised by how often I use it. And thank you for your all reviews, it helped me to choose the right ones.
I want both because when I'm wearing one I miss the other lol. They almost compliment each other perfectly. Can't really go wrong either way and again another fantastic video!
Thank you for the review, this actually helped me make a decision for the Epix Pro. The added 51mm size increases battery life and it now does have the same flashlight as the Fenix :).
You're very welcome!
1st watch was a Fénix 6X Pro Solar that I bought on sale over a yr ago around 600ish(going to sale maybe on ebay) and scored this year an Enduro 2 for 600!
I like the amoled on the other watch but went with the Enduro v2! Battery and flashlight is what sold me and made this watch a winner! 🥇
I have been using fenix 5 since 2017. Despite all the years of periodic activities such as cycling, paragliding, running and swimming, even the battery life is still over 10 days. Even though it is an old model, I have not complained about the screen even once. The day I have to leave Fenix 5, I will continue with Fenix's latest series.
The 15hr battery life with multiband is kind of a deal-breaker for me. I live in heavily wooded area and it makes a HUGE difference, esp in the summer. I do a few > 15hr activities a year, usually when I *require* maps. So it's def a nogo. For non-ultra people, the AMOLED probably makes more sense! Hopefully the Epix 3 has a flashlight.
I do long mountain hikes 10-20miles sometimes off-trails under cliffs and on one occasion I did 15h45 so it's the 1st thing I checked for anyone reading this : epix pro gen2 battery life All Satellite Systems + Multi-band: 42mm/13 hours 47mm/20hrs 51mm/38hrs (assuming it's not on all the time) surprisingly in the same usage the 7x pro 51mm/36hrs so less than it's epix counterpart, that said out of multi-band gps usage the 7x lasts 3x longer
@@fredrando_ch9312 the 7x doesn't have multi-band
EPIX2, absolutely love it and I use the screen flashlight daily. Your video inspired me to finally update some of the settings and data screens I've been meaning to do since I picked it up about a year ago.
Man. there's no right answer here. I love my Epix for what I do - mostly single day cardio and strength training activities like running, biking, snowboarding. I don't mind charging it. I did a 4 day backpacking trip with it. It ALMOST lasted. Forgot to top it off one day. But I was carrying a battery pack anyway so wouldn't have been a big deal.
For my buddy who's an avid backpacker, gotta be Fenix 7 all the way. My other buddy who mostly runs uses a 955. All of our other friends who are casual users have Apple Watches. Everyone's happy!
Hey, I'm practically looking to do what you described above and I'm undecided on the f7 saph/solar and standard epix 2. I either gym, martial arts or jog every day and I'd be doing the odd 1 to 4 day hike or wildcamp. Day to day I work in an office. What would you suggest? The hikes I'd also probably carry a fully charged powerbanks. Also if you could give me a bit of info on the durability of the Epix2 too. Thanks
Been using my Vivoactive 3 for almost 3 years now (maybe longer) but it's definitely showing it's age and wear. I've been looking at both the Fenix 7 and Epix 2, and I still can't decide which one would be right for me. Both seem like such better watches than what I have 😂
How did you finally decide? :) I am in the front of the same situation and still don't know.
Going from my Vivoactive 4 to a fenix 7! Was facing the same questions but it makes more practical sense to not have to worry about viewing the screen in direct sunlight (I live in Brazil and it’s super bright) plus I don’t use maps as much. If I did, maybe I’d go for the epix!
these epix 2 now priced $499 at Cabela's and Bass Pro shops. $544 on Garmin amazon store. That is a big discount
USA...While we in EUROPE pay much much more.
I went from the Epix to the the Fenix 7X to the Enduro 2 which I'm currently using. I agree the flashlight has become my go to feature. I really wish they could add the flashlight to some AMOLED displays. Maybe the new 965...
I went with a 7xs over the epix and it was very very hard, but as an avid daily National Park hiker I could not turn down the higher battery. Sometimes I do have some regret, but I love my watch and topo maps. I have the ability to do a lot more without compromising battery life where the epix I would have to compromise on battery saving.
What do you think about the long term battery health of both watches? We know that battery health is limited and most modern batteries have a lifespan of about 300 charge cycles for its capacity to drop to 80% of original. Given that the Epix will require more frequent charging, the battery health will be spent much sooner than Fēnix, which means you'll need to buy a replacement watch sooner as well. Personally I want to keep my watch for as long as possible given how expensive they really are. Thoughts?
Love the battery life on the 7x. I rarely use the flashlight, though... Thanks again Des.
I guess with modern frames nowadays there's no need for a flashlight for internal cable routing ;) Thanks Dave!
@@DesFit 🤣
Great comparison video!
Once I used to wear a Huawei watch with an amoled display. Since I switched to the Garmin Forerunner series I never missed that amoled display. So MIP is just fine for me.
Nice! Glad you found what you're looking for! 👍
Had the Fenix 5X and loved it. Bought the Fenix 7X pro solar sapphire titanium and love it even more. I'm used to the mip display of the Fenix series and with the solar helping to reduce the discharging the 7X pro batterylife is almost endless. 😉
I’m an oled snob and thought I would choose the Epix over the Fenix 7x. I loved the flashlight so much, that I got an Enduro 2 (brighter flashlight) and haven’t looked back. Blown away by how functional it is for everyday life.
I went with the Fenix 7 Sapphire Solar, I wanted the X because of the flashlight, but my wrists are just too small to pull it off. The Epix woulda been my choice if I wore the Garmin exclusively, but I wear my Garmin only to sleep/workout - for that I didn't need the fancy display, longer battery life meant more to me.
How’s the screen? I’m in the same situation. I have to decide tomorrow to get 45% off.
@@Mdogbrown I'm still happy with my choice...
@@PBlaik I think I’ve decided on the same. Thanks!
I have the epix but I would like to use the Marq series instead, they are a bit more pretty if you want to use the watch as a daily driver. I would love if Garmin buys Oura ring or similar so you can still get 360 fitness parameters but in another format and then use a dedicated sport watch for the workouts.
I bought both. I use my fenix for ultras and epix for day to day.
Due to non-intrusive nature of the MiP display, I totally prefer the Fenix. And flashlight is a cherry on top. I might consider Fenix 7 over 7X due to size but wanted a higher battery capacity. I'd be thinking for a long time which one to choose if it wasn't for the flashlight being present only on the 'big boy'. And it's almost a year with it now. I've tried, compared etc. Definitely don't want an amoled watch. It's just too intrusive, even on lowest brightness. I don't want any bright light on my wrist if I don't choose to activate it. I've tried for a couple of days with Epix (quick swap) and I've used a VivoActive plus thingy for weeks and I've always been annoyed by screen going bright on the wrist. Even partner's and friends' Apple Watches etc. lighting up in the room attract too much attention. Totally distracting and irritating even from a distance. I want the watch to remain discrete and not light up as a Christmas tree at each notification etc. Phone can do that. Watch needs to be a "silent, smooth and discrete companion" ;)
I like to look at AMOLED when I need to read something from it. But throughout the day I find it intrusive and annoying. MIP is way more discrete, hence it became my choice :)
Next generations might make things more interesting, when LED flashlights get incorporated into more models, maybe even smaller bezels. I'd like the Fenix 8 with battery lifetime of 7X, flashlight from Enduro 2 and skin temperature sensors along with proper ECG. Then it would be my perfect (for the time being) watch :) The one I'd switch to from 7X.
The problem with amoled is it gets burn-in after a long period of use. From crystal clear display to meh real quick.
Thanks for this timely update! I had actually just wondered whether the stream of Fenix vs Epix videos had dried up ;o)
Good reasoning, and hugely credible after your long-term use of both devices. I am still in the Fenix 7 camp, but the day that Garmin issues an Epic 8x, they’ll win me over.
I get 5-7 days with the Fenix 7SS during winter with similar settings you have on the Epix. I only got the watch a month ago, so can't wait to see what the battery life turns out to be in the summer with nightless night 😊
We're all looking forward to summer! 😁 Enjoy!
If the Epix had been a 51mm size like the Fenix 7x I probably would have gone for Epix. I’ve gotten used to the 51mm size for sport watches so going to something smaller just felt/looked weird to me. I know I’d adjust to it but having the extra screen size for maps/data is great for my poor eyesight 😂
the Epix screen is day and night better for mapping. Has a higher pixel density so actually fits more on the screen. But the main thing is the colour screen on the epic makes the roads and lines much easier to see.
I choose a slightly different route dealing with the battery life on the Epix. I turn it to battery saving mode quite often. In the battery saving mode settings I pretty much enabled everything so I wouldn't miss any health tracking. I find that if I needed to interact with the watch, it's not a big deal to tap a button. With this and SPO² turned off, I regularly reach at least 10 days. That includes about an hour's worth of GPS activity a day and usually listening to music via Bluetooth.
Your last two videos were 10/10 for me. TYSM!
Glad they hit for you! Thanks!
Very good video, with a lot of good info. I chose the Tactix 7 Pro (solar version), because I like the looks, and I love having a long battery life. What I didn’t count on, was how much I like having the led flashlight in the watch. I use that flashlight every day, and it’s awesome. My number one activity is hiking/climbing in the mountains. And not having the ability to properly charge my watch for a week at a time, except for maybe using a battery bank, kind of excludes the Epix a bit. The Epix display is gorgeous, but I love the long battery life more. The Tactix 7 is the best watch I’ve had up till now, and I enjoy it every day.
When Garmin comes out with a cellular option on the fenix or enduro line, I’ll be first in line. Until then I’m going to have to suffer with my three day battery with the AW ultra.
i like the testing of the display's when you are going to bed or waking up. it seems the fenix 7 is just overall more practical. Yet the Epix has just such beatiful colors.
People dedicated to making (high tech) videos have a natural preference for good looking screens. They already have plenty of cameras and screens and a drawer full of watches to pick from everyday. Choosing a pixel screen and larger battery life makes no sense for youtubers... unless the product is flashy :) Kudos to Des.
Objective no-nonsense video!👍🏼
Thanks!
Went for the longer battery life. That said, the Epic LOOKS great.
I bought the 955 solar over the fenix 7 for features to feature and price to, I lost out on something but it works for me coming from a old instinct tactical, I have been looking at the tactix 7 & solar to 10:34
10 months later I doubt you'll see this, but now that the Epix Pro is out (and has the LED), are you full time Epix?
A lot of ppl here are suggesting the enduro2 and skipping the fenix line all together.
The enduro2 is come in only 51mm that’s the same size at the biggest epix and fenix
Yes it has longer battery life, but it’s also thicker. 14.5mm for the epix and fenix versus 15.7mm for the enduro. That pretty much substantial for an already heavyset watch
I have the 7x. I can't live without the flashlight. Absolute game changer
Enduro 2 all the way. Had the Epix Gen 2 and sold it. 30+ day battery life kills the field.
I too was deciding between the Fenix 7 and Epix Gen 2. For me it came down to the display and me deprioritizing Solar and longer battery usage. I feel from a display prospective I might be stepping down in my current likes with my Apple Ultra display.
I have the Epix Gen2 and really happy with my choice. The screen brightness tipped it for me.
I have no problem charging it once a week with the always on display.
I suppose the importance you place on your display technology (AMOLED vs MIP) probably depends on usage. If you utilize your watch primarily as a smartwatch then AMOLED is probably more important since the watch IS your primary information source - essentially becomes a primary 'screen'. But I only utilize my watch for physical activities. Hence I'm only glancing at it to verify pace, distance, and zone. My watch is NOT my primary screen so I don't need 1000 nits & inky blacks to read Slack from my wrist. For that I have a phone which is always on my person. For me personally, all I really require in a sports watch is a ROUND display, a minimum of 5 days battery, acceptable contrast, and PERFECT readability in direct sunlight. Anything else is just icing. As long as my requirements are met, I honestly don't care what tech is used. Now, if I used my watch as a smartwatch primarily, then I'd definitely prefer a SQUARE watch face with as much display area as physically possible.
I came back to Fenix from Epix. Epix was basicly to birght for me on everyday use... even aod with lowest bright possible. and flashlight! Genius solution on my X :) ... battery life incredible also
I went for the Fenix 7, cause I do outdoor almost exclusively, often sunny.
I've read reports about maps screen turned on permanently was draining Epix battery in 5-8 hours. Can anyone confirm or dismiss this?
Epix for EDC, city based activities and fenix for hiking or wilderness activities.
You didn't have to choose! 😁👍
I had the Epix 2, but decided to go with Apple Watch Ultra at the end. I was really missing the Smartwatch features on Epix 2 and the display quality (animations, smoothness, the bonus is ofc if you are invested in Apple Ecosystem). I only need tracking for Walk / Run and Strength workouts as I do not need any other type, so even Apple Watch Ultra has way more sport modes than I need. The only thing AWU does not have is things like 'Stress Management' and 'Body Battery', and you are a bit forced to go for third party solutions. However, for me it was worth the trade so far.
Hey Des, yo keep crushing things. Keep at it. Might recommend you do your ask for the like/subscribe earlier in the video to catch more people sooner, the way Ray does it about 1/3 of the way in when things are warming up. Just a thought. Love the content.
So I sometimes do the mid-way like/subscribe thing and sometimes I totally forget. But thanks for the reminder! I sometimes forget to hit like when I'm watching other creator's videos so I really appreciate when creators make that call out. Thanks so much!