I like the Crossover. It's an awesome idea. But I got the Instinct 2 on sale for half the price of the Crossover. The Crossover's new features are awesome, but don't double the value of the watch for me. Also, I like the that the Instinct 2 is thinner and lighter
I really love the look of the instinct crossover, I do agree with you, it even may eat a chunk of the market of analog users who would also like something more capable in the tracking department (the "Casioak" GA-2100 broke sell records back in the day, and it had a similar idea but fairly more limited) but the pricing is just too steep. You mentioned the Forerunner 955, but for the price tag and specially now during Cyber Monday and Black Friday deals, you could get the Fenix 6 for actually less money having all those features the Forerunner has, without missing the outdoor look and feel, not to mention most watches of the outdoor competition as well.
I agree. It's weird and kinda cool that the option exists, but the price is hard to swallow especially when you can get forerunner 955 for a much cheaper price, not to mention other smart watch options. I think this should be another option in pricing terms to Instinct Solar, which has seen a price increase anyway. $350 sounds fair.
I love normal watches, I love my Seikos to give this thing a try. I'm going back to Seiko because they actually work for years and the Garmin Instinct crossover after 1 months 9nly told me the time and zero about activity, heart rate or sleep. Garmin is junk I guess. I had high hopes for this watch guess I'll go back to my 8 year old Prospex
i just bought this watch - its almost 300 dollars with some online stores. My vovoactive 4 finally needed replacing. I use my phone at the end of the day for the stats and use my watch to,,,,look at the time. It is a truly awesome watch. Thank you for these reviews which helped me purchase it.
Your review helped me decide, I ordered the crossover. I wanted an analog watch first and fitness/smart watch second. I have had too many smart watches and fitness bands and the lack of physical hands has become tiresome. Always on and even shake awake has resulted in burn in over time for almost all of my watches. I'm hoping this watch ticks all the boxes, my research has me hopeful. You picked up a subscriber too, keep up the good work.
I researched and after a year decided on the Crossover, first, for the love of Analog, I've been a Seiko man for years and my quick glance at the hands of time is a habit, also the digital military readout is a bonus. The health tracking helps with several fitness goals and keeps me aware of calls and text messages as I never seem to have my phone, and tend to miss a call or two. I have found the sharp design to occasionally catch the eye of people who can't help but take a second glance at the simple but intentional uniqueness. Its clean appearance appeals to the minimalist lifestyle and I study the watch occasionally trying to evaluate what makes this smartwatch so appealing.
Thanks for the review I really enjoyed it. I personally am interested in the crossover for all the things you've mentioned in the review, but also mainly for the aesthetics, I love the fact that it has mechanical hands + all the other smartwatch/fitness watch features. I have a fenix 6 solar which I have been wearing everyday since my wife bought it for me nearly two years ago and an instinct solar 1 which is now sitting in my drawer... Yes, I would buy the crossover... I am a fan of the hands and the swiveling movement, it almost seems like it's alive, it is spirited and I like that. I have to budget for it though because it is not cheap as mentioned. Thanks again for the review! One last thing, are the messages legible and can you read the entire message and emojis? Let me know if you read this comment guys. Love and peace to all
LOL, its ironic that i was looking for a watch with more/different capabilities than a g shock. I’m going with the solar version. I like the classic looks with modern functions. Great video, new subscriber
Thanks for another great review. My holy grail is the Fenix 7x Saphire Solar. 🤤 I'm a big G Shock fan so yeah, the Crossover looks a little more my speed. The reality is I have an Instinct 1 Solar that has nothing wrong with it for my needs. 😭 One other thing I noticed on the Garmin specs is the Crossover has 62 MB of memory/history while the Instinct 2 has 32 MB.
I just got the Crossover Solar Tactical for $299 on prime deal, pulled the trigger without doing a ton of research but sounds like I hit the jackpot! Used to have a whoop but didnt want to pay $30/month for the health features so super excited to try this out
Great review, thanks! I own the 'old' Instinct Tactical, which I love. I do like the addition of the mechanical movement on the Crossover, but for all the reasons you mention, for the money, I think I'd prefer to go with something like the Forerunner 955, which would feel like a true upgrade from the watch I have. Cheers!
The cross over is Suica compatible in Japan - so you can buy things at the convenience store, vending machines, supermarkets and use it as a train pass - which is pretty cool (many of the garmin devices are suica compatible).
Just bought it after watching the video. Really great watch, the only issue that I have (I didn't really noticed it before buying) is that it doesnt have built-in LED flashlight like instinct 2 has. Otherwise, I like it a lot.
That's my dilemma as well. For the same price the 955 offers a lot more in terms of functionality. But the Crossover does have a certain cool factor to it!
The Instincts I felt are intersting watches because of their G Shock look and of course because of their features, but they where never for me, because of the limitation of the screen by the fixed circle. Now the Crossover does not have that circle anymore, but it has hands. I like how they manage how the hand go out of the way. Really funny, but still the instinct is not mine, maybe because I mostly have a digit watchface then one with hands. But I believe that this is a great improvement for the instinct
Looks awesome. I am so in love with my instinct. I did smart watches for quit a while. I am so glad I switched to Garmin. I should specify . I mean traditional smart watches. I don't consider the majority of Garmin watches to be a "smart watch" in the traditional sense
Dang that’s thick. I had the v1 and v2 instinct solar and love it. I am into mechanical watches too and 12-13mm height is the sweet spot for me. The instinct 2 had a good height for the line, but if this is even thicker than that… that’s pushing it. And then with the price, it just doesn’t make sense. Maybe they can refine this idea a little more, what about these ideas? slim it down, better legibility with less battery life, add a uni or bi directional bezel, add a flashlight like the fenix 7x.
Appreciate the detail and way you packed so much info into this video so cleanly. Wish Garmin would have a little more price separation between their models. They have dozens of watches for sale at this point, and the vast majority are between $250 and $650, and almost none of them are even remotely the same.
I love it even if I had mixed feelings about my instinct solar. But the real hands... The price though is completely uncomprehensive... 200 more and you can get the AW Ultra 🤷🏻♂️
J'ai une forerunner 955 solaire mais j'aime beaucoup cette nouvelle montre. Elle ressemble aux casio g shock. Ces aiguilles apportent plein de trucs sympa. ✌️
Great review. I've had the crossover solar tactical for about 5 months now and have never charged it yet. I live in an area with plenty of sunshine so the 70-day battery life info for crossover solar is not accurate. I have the infinite sign on the watch with 100% full battery constantly.
I have got the Fenix 6 pro but I think it is heavy and cold because you have metal directly on the skin, even though it has music, color display and maps. Now I got the crossover because it sits better on the wrist, it feels warmer in cold weather, it is lighter, and tracks what I need. The music on the Fenix drains battery when using gps and running modes at the same time. The maps are smart, but not very useful in my opinion. If I am in need of navigation to a specific point or so I wouldn't use the watch anyway. Also the crossover is robust and made with a military standard. I don't think the Fenix 6 pro is unless it is the titanium and saphire version. I find the hands really usefull in the dark, and it lights up for many hours. Turn on the light and put your hand over the watch, then it glows again. I always felt that the Fenix was really uncomfortable for running etc. And a little big for my wrist. The crossover is 2 millimeters smaller, but it actually feels more normal. Also the Fenix gets scratches really easy because, the screen is exposed. On the crossover it is kind of behind some of the rubber/plastic. The crossover also feels better when sleeping and sometimes you forget that you wear it 😂
Great rewiew as allways! I realy like the Watch, the arms, the nostalgia, just great) is solar worth it? And, one more; can it run just the hands? I mean display off? Or stand by mode? Please excuse me, my engish sucks, but belive me you would be even worse at my language) Thanks
I enjoy wearing mine, although for a casual user, the strength training workout is a bit tedious (selecting each workout and weight etc). Great for pros. I have replaced my Solar Pathfinders/G-shocks and Apple watch with this.
I don't know which one I would choose: Crossover solar (599 euro), 955 solar (650 euro) feels a bit too expensive for me. I like the sturdy look of an Instinct (have a original Instinct). But I would have to make a very difficult decision if my watch would stop working tomorrow. Would probably choose an Instinct 2 solar, hopefully with some discount. ;-)
It's interesting and shows me how I have changed as a consumer. If you'd shown me this when I first was interested in a sports tracking/GPS watch, I would have jumped at the chance! Now, I'd like the same features, just without the distracting hands 😅
It's a very good looking watch. I'm just hoping they fixed their Compass. I own the Instinct 2 and the compass reading goes way off the moment you tilt the watch at different angles.
I hope Garmin improved the issue with buttons getting stuck, especially for swimmers and other water based activities. My 2 instinct solar surf edition had this problem and looking to switch to the cross-over...
I do really really really like the look it's everything I've wanted from a "hybrid" smartwatch/military watch. Buttt I might have to wait till they have a 2nd edition with better solar power
I really wanted hands, sooo bad. Wanted to remake one of other non-sport hybrid garmin watches - even bought phosphorous paint. But gave up the idea of braking the watch, just gave it away instead. I got crossover tactical, super happy with it, but I also thought that I am getting infinite battery life - didn't realise that I am loosing that to Instinct 2. I would not go for Instinct 2, because it didn't have hands. Sooo, I guess this is best for me anway. I switched from AppleWatch Ultra and Tactix Delta 6 - had to get used to small digital screen, but once got used to that I am super happy. I have an option to get back to Ultra or Delta, but not likely will happen in next 6months or so.
I just got this watch for 360 from amazon. I think that's the right price point for it. A watch is supposed to always tell the time quickly day and night and be pleasing to your eyes when you use it. If you add the garmin sports functionality to it, it might be my last watch. I hope. Every time I buy a new watch my wife looks at me sideways 😂
I want the Crossover so much, but I bought the Instinct 2 Solar when it came out earlier this year. So now i’m not sure if I want to spend another $1,150 AUD on a watch that’s very similar to my Instinct 2 Solar. First world problems really.
It’s doesn’t have an e-ink display, it’s MIP (memory in pixel). When you turn of the watch it doesn’t display anything. If it was e-ink it would still show something.
Add a life long analogue watch wearer, this will be my first smart watch. I've looked at lots and seen many options for analogue displays but they just didn't hook me.
So what you avoiding saying is that the instinct 2 last longer and has all the functions I need but yet because of the 2nd hand on the cross over ...the new look should make me forget that I'm spending more on less battery and same functions...umm...got it!
Great stuff. Always love your content. I need some help. I’ve been using Fenix 3HR Titanium for several years (paired with Polar chest strap). Bought (then returned) several Garmins to replace it (5x, 5 plus, instinct, instinct 2 Solar..) My issue with the Instinct 2 Solar was readability especially at night when checking the time as the backlight would washout the screen. So I thought this Crossover would be the answer. Now with Fenix & epix series having touch screen, it’s making me curious about the Venu which I had never considered before. Also interested in the workout animations which I wouldn’t have on instinct. I mainly use it for strength training, running and training for occasional half marathons. I also play tennis but I don’t really need to track it. I’m about to turn 50 if that matters. Do you think the Venu would be sufficient? Thanks!
I think this will be my next Garmin watch because it has actual hands! Wish you had covered what the tactical features are… otherwise a great video 👏 👏
oh boy. After watching this review, i 'am now torn between the Garmin Forerunner 955 or this one as an xmas gift for my father. He's retired and lives a very active lifestyle (as do i). I thought about getting him a Forerunner or Epix2 (I have the Epix2, I converted from AW to Epix2 thanks to this channel), then I finally settled on the Forerunner and now this watch appears. Here we go. lol.
You are very luck getting to test and use all these different Garmin watches. Garmin offers such a diverse field of watches, each that have their own style and feature set. I personally really like this one (I like all the Instinct watches), and I had an Instinct solar for a year before my Fenix 7. I loved the comfort of the watch, and the tough look, but unfortunately I can own only one, and that is the Fenix 7 Sapphire Solar. In the end it is the watch that does it all for me, as I use it mostly for long distance hiking, running, and sometimes a stand-in for my Edge 1030 riding.
Instinct 2 looks miles better. Analogue hands just don't fit such rugged design. Reminds me of old plastic Casio Aviator watches (some models), which looked ridiculous. I own GW-3000BD though, those are beautiful - but they are fully analogue. That's just my opinion, of course.
It's really ironic that this watch comes out as I'm getting an itch for something in the ana-digi category and have been looking at a lot of G-Shock and Eco-Drive watches recently. I haven't pulled the trigger because Citizen and Casio do not offer any analog-digital watches with any kind of health and fitness monitoring. About the closest thing is the G-Shock Move GBD-H1000. Digital, with some health and fitness metrics, but no analog watch hands. This new Garmin will likely be my next watch! The 6 Pro has been on sale on Amazon for $350 USD lately, too. Decisions, decisions! 🤣
A year later and I'm considering the crossover. I had the fenix 3 for a long time. Went to the 6x to add heart rate and it's been great. But the hands appeal to me and the crossover has "windsurfing" which can't be added to my fenix 6x. So I either upgrade to a 7x/7xpro/epix2 or I can go with the crossover. With how I've always used my fenix, I don't use maps, I don't use music, and color really doesn't matter to me. The only real negative I see here is only 4 data fields during a recording, I use all 8 on my 6x... Yeah I can pick and choose and setup 2 screen but that's the one drawback. I'm a watch guy though so the look with actual hands has always appealed to me. The fact it has wind sports built in is a huge plus that pushing me towards it. These are now $350 so the "value" is a lot different. Thanks for the review.
Just trying to catch some Casio marketshare. With inflation and little in the way of salary adjustments just yet, these costs can’t be justified IMO for what value is provided.
I bought this watch, I loved it for a month! After 1 months the thing quit tracking my all together. Garmin can't help get it fixed either I'm very disappointed with my purchase considering the watch was brand new and gave up after 1 months....so much for durability, didn't even drop it. Garmin watches are just Taiwanese plastic toys unfortunately I guess
Hello, first of all, I like your videos. Does the Garmin instinct cross-over have turn by turn navigation via Google maps (through your smartphone)?. I am intrigued by the design.
Have you ever used an Instinct crossover in the winter? Moisture is created between tempered glass and the main display...Maybe it's caused by the difference between the internal temperature of the crossover and the cold temperature outside...I wonder if it doesn't cause any problems with the watch.
I have the Apple Watch Ultra and Instinct 2 solar. I'm tempted to just on the crossover solar bandwagon. It does have that nostalgic premium feel/look to it. My Instinct 2 solar in white is ok, but looks to be a little less on the gshock and a bit more toyish... the Crossover solar looks a little classier and I don't care for the cutout circular display in the upper right corner. My ultra is ok, but I don't like the limited access to workout data and it lacks giving any reasonable health/data interpretations or advice... e.g. sleep recommendations, body battery, etc.
hello, how strong is alarm vibration? I am thinking about upgrading to them, but I've been wearing garmin vivomove style for the past 3 years, and it does not wake me up, I just sleep through it. I''ve never had this problem with Xiaomi bands, or amazfit watches that I had previously.
All Systems means different GNSS Satellites on same frequency - GPS L1, Gallileo, BeiDou etc, where MultiBand is I.e. GPS L1 + Glonass or GPS L2 or L5 . So for Crossover they would need to invest in multiband (2 or more freq.) antenna to cover multiband GNSS 🫤 chipset would not do anything if there is no multiband antenna on board, not possible to change with software😢
Multi-GNSS yes, but Multi-Band GNSS... No. There's a difference even though they sound very similar. Multi-band allows the watch utilize multiple bands simultaneously while mult-gnss is limited to a single band but does support multiple sat systems.
good question! I was looking for it but couldn't find it selectable, did see that from other watch faces tho just not this one with chart on top half sadly
In the breadcrumbs GPS mode, can you scroll the map somehow in the event that a breadcrumb is due south and covered by the hand set that have tried to tuck themselves out of the way at the 6:30 position?
I’m trying to decide between the crossover and the fenix 7 both are going to be solar. I typically run and do CrossFit everyday but I have a dirty out door job and I’m worried the fenix 7 getting messed up and the touchscreen eventually not working. I currently have the first instinct and it has worked Great. Any suggestions?
I have a Fenix 6 Sapphire. I have an outside job. My watch takes a beating every single day and it keeps on ticking. I had a Fenix 5 and that watch took a beating as well. I'm not saying they're G-Shocks but, they come close. You can't go wrong with either one you choose for every day outside work.
This is where g-shock should have been, I feel a bit sad for casio…
Imagine a world where g shock bought pebble
Don't feel sad for Casio, these Garmin watches basically quit after 1 or 2 months theyr junk
@@kd9937I’ve had my cheap garmin forerunner for several years and it’s been fine..
@@kd9937not my experience mine lasted 4 years. I guess you got unlucky, should be under warranty.
Very true.. I fear Casio would face the same plight Nokia faced. Nikia was top notch, but failed to identify market
Oh my GAWD!!! Finally a sport watch that can actually display easily readable time 24/7!!!
I like the Crossover. It's an awesome idea. But I got the Instinct 2 on sale for half the price of the Crossover. The Crossover's new features are awesome, but don't double the value of the watch for me. Also, I like the that the Instinct 2 is thinner and lighter
Same -- Got a BNIB Instinct 2 for $200 - Can't beat that value. I'd love a Crossover, but for sub $400 (max)
I own a Crossover Solar Tactical and it's simply awesome. Out of the ordinary!
I don’t understand how the maps work.
I really love the look of the instinct crossover, I do agree with you, it even may eat a chunk of the market of analog users who would also like something more capable in the tracking department (the "Casioak" GA-2100 broke sell records back in the day, and it had a similar idea but fairly more limited) but the pricing is just too steep. You mentioned the Forerunner 955, but for the price tag and specially now during Cyber Monday and Black Friday deals, you could get the Fenix 6 for actually less money having all those features the Forerunner has, without missing the outdoor look and feel, not to mention most watches of the outdoor competition as well.
I agree. It's weird and kinda cool that the option exists, but the price is hard to swallow especially when you can get forerunner 955 for a much cheaper price, not to mention other smart watch options.
I think this should be another option in pricing terms to Instinct Solar, which has seen a price increase anyway.
$350 sounds fair.
Ч
I love normal watches, I love my Seikos to give this thing a try. I'm going back to Seiko because they actually work for years and the Garmin Instinct crossover after 1 months 9nly told me the time and zero about activity, heart rate or sleep. Garmin is junk I guess. I had high hopes for this watch guess I'll go back to my 8 year old Prospex
i just bought this watch - its almost 300 dollars with some online stores. My vovoactive 4 finally needed replacing. I use my phone at the end of the day for the stats and use my watch to,,,,look at the time. It is a truly awesome watch. Thank you for these reviews which helped me purchase it.
Your review helped me decide, I ordered the crossover. I wanted an analog watch first and fitness/smart watch second. I have had too many smart watches and fitness bands and the lack of physical hands has become tiresome. Always on and even shake awake has resulted in burn in over time for almost all of my watches. I'm hoping this watch ticks all the boxes, my research has me hopeful.
You picked up a subscriber too, keep up the good work.
This with a slimmer design and a color display would be a dream
I researched and after a year decided on the Crossover, first, for the love of Analog, I've been a Seiko man for years and my quick glance at the hands of time is a habit, also the digital military readout is a bonus. The health tracking helps with several fitness goals and keeps me aware of calls and text messages as I never seem to have my phone, and tend to miss a call or two. I have found the sharp design to occasionally catch the eye of people who can't help but take a second glance at the simple but intentional uniqueness. Its clean appearance appeals to the minimalist lifestyle and I study the watch occasionally trying to evaluate what makes this smartwatch so appealing.
Thanks for the review I really enjoyed it. I personally am interested in the crossover for all the things you've mentioned in the review, but also mainly for the aesthetics, I love the fact that it has mechanical hands + all the other smartwatch/fitness watch features. I have a fenix 6 solar which I have been wearing everyday since my wife bought it for me nearly two years ago and an instinct solar 1 which is now sitting in my drawer... Yes, I would buy the crossover... I am a fan of the hands and the swiveling movement, it almost seems like it's alive, it is spirited and I like that. I have to budget for it though because it is not cheap as mentioned. Thanks again for the review! One last thing, are the messages legible and can you read the entire message and emojis? Let me know if you read this comment guys. Love and peace to all
LOL, its ironic that i was looking for a watch with more/different capabilities than a g shock. I’m going with the solar version. I like the classic looks with modern functions. Great video, new subscriber
Ordering the Crossover this week. Really like the analog hands. It will be replacing my Casio Protek.
It's funny you had to explain what fluorescence (or luminoscence) is :D It was like magic when I was a kid in the 80's xD
Ha! Same!
Thanks for another great review. My holy grail is the Fenix 7x Saphire Solar. 🤤 I'm a big G Shock fan so yeah, the Crossover looks a little more my speed. The reality is I have an Instinct 1 Solar that has nothing wrong with it for my needs. 😭 One other thing I noticed on the Garmin specs is the Crossover has 62 MB of memory/history while the Instinct 2 has 32 MB.
I just got the Crossover Solar Tactical for $299 on prime deal, pulled the trigger without doing a ton of research but sounds like I hit the jackpot! Used to have a whoop but didnt want to pay $30/month for the health features so super excited to try this out
A comprehensive and honest review as usual. Thanks buddy! 👍
Great review, thanks! I own the 'old' Instinct Tactical, which I love. I do like the addition of the mechanical movement on the Crossover, but for all the reasons you mention, for the money, I think I'd prefer to go with something like the Forerunner 955, which would feel like a true upgrade from the watch I have. Cheers!
The cross over is Suica compatible in Japan - so you can buy things at the convenience store, vending machines, supermarkets and use it as a train pass - which is pretty cool (many of the garmin devices are suica compatible).
Personally love the circle in instinct 2 solar
It's got some character for sure! I think functionally the open screen makes more sense though.
Just bought it after watching the video. Really great watch, the only issue that I have (I didn't really noticed it before buying) is that it doesnt have built-in LED flashlight like instinct 2 has. Otherwise, I like it a lot.
Right! Only the larger 2X got the flashlight.
By the end I of your video I think the name has been embedded very well into our memories.
I can remind you if you need it.
It would be hard to choose this over the 955, but I do like the appearance of it.
That's my dilemma as well. For the same price the 955 offers a lot more in terms of functionality. But the Crossover does have a certain cool factor to it!
If they had a smaller version, I'd get the Crossover.
The Instincts I felt are intersting watches because of their G Shock look and of course because of their features, but they where never for me, because of the limitation of the screen by the fixed circle. Now the Crossover does not have that circle anymore, but it has hands. I like how they manage how the hand go out of the way. Really funny, but still the instinct is not mine, maybe because I mostly have a digit watchface then one with hands. But I believe that this is a great improvement for the instinct
Great review, cheers buddy. I just bought the FR255 Music, might get one of these as well though. I like the analog-digi look too.
Looks awesome. I am so in love with my instinct. I did smart watches for quit a while. I am so glad I switched to Garmin. I should specify . I mean traditional smart watches. I don't consider the majority of Garmin watches to be a "smart watch" in the traditional sense
I’ve got a crossover and I do like the visibility during the night with the lume. That being said, it is not a cheap watch
It is a very nice locking watch, but little beat spensive. Thanks for the review.
I still think that you have chosen the Garmin 955 as the best smart watch for runners, so far.
It's a good one!
Dang that’s thick. I had the v1 and v2 instinct solar and love it. I am into mechanical watches too and 12-13mm height is the sweet spot for me. The instinct 2 had a good height for the line, but if this is even thicker than that… that’s pushing it. And then with the price, it just doesn’t make sense. Maybe they can refine this idea a little more, what about these ideas?
slim it down, better legibility with less battery life, add a uni or bi directional bezel, add a flashlight like the fenix 7x.
Appreciate the detail and way you packed so much info into this video so cleanly. Wish Garmin would have a little more price separation between their models.
They have dozens of watches for sale at this point, and the vast majority are between $250 and $650, and almost none of them are even remotely the same.
I love the look of the watch, just doesn’t have the features I need as a runner.
Bought the 255s music this year. Love it.
I love it even if I had mixed feelings about my instinct solar. But the real hands...
The price though is completely uncomprehensive... 200 more and you can get the AW Ultra 🤷🏻♂️
True, but Apple’s battery doesn’t stand even a chance compared to nearly any Garmin, even those made years ago. Depends on your preference 😌
@@brawn_colemaneah !
The Apple Watch Ultra is just a cool fashion accessory and the best intrusive smartwatch ever ))
J'ai une forerunner 955 solaire mais j'aime beaucoup cette nouvelle montre.
Elle ressemble aux casio g shock.
Ces aiguilles apportent plein de trucs sympa.
✌️
Une copie de la Gshock GA 2100 😉
Great review. I've had the crossover solar tactical for about 5 months now and have never charged it yet. I live in an area with plenty of sunshine so the 70-day battery life info for crossover solar is not accurate. I have the infinite sign on the watch with 100% full battery constantly.
Hi mate,
You already scratched the bezel ?! How did it happen ?! 😱
My instinct Solar after 2 years has no sign of use, not one 🤷🏻♂️
It's not really scratched. Just a scuff that looks worse in this video!
I have got the Fenix 6 pro but I think it is heavy and cold because you have metal directly on the skin, even though it has music, color display and maps.
Now I got the crossover because it sits better on the wrist, it feels warmer in cold weather, it is lighter, and tracks what I need.
The music on the Fenix drains battery when using gps and running modes at the same time. The maps are smart, but not very useful in my opinion. If I am in need of navigation to a specific point or so I wouldn't use the watch anyway.
Also the crossover is robust and made with a military standard. I don't think the Fenix 6 pro is unless it is the titanium and saphire version.
I find the hands really usefull in the dark, and it lights up for many hours. Turn on the light and put your hand over the watch, then it glows again.
I always felt that the Fenix was really uncomfortable for running etc. And a little big for my wrist. The crossover is 2 millimeters smaller, but it actually feels more normal.
Also the Fenix gets scratches really easy because, the screen is exposed. On the crossover it is kind of behind some of the rubber/plastic.
The crossover also feels better when sleeping and sometimes you forget that you wear it 😂
Great rewiew as allways! I realy like the Watch, the arms, the nostalgia, just great) is solar worth it? And, one more; can it run just the hands? I mean display off? Or stand by mode? Please excuse me, my engish sucks, but belive me you would be even worse at my language)
Thanks
You can imagine this is an under the radar test bed for the next super expensive Marq
It would be interesting to see a "Fenix Crossover" with mechanical hands.
I enjoy wearing mine, although for a casual user, the strength training workout is a bit tedious (selecting each workout and weight etc). Great for pros. I have replaced my Solar Pathfinders/G-shocks and Apple watch with this.
I don't know which one I would choose: Crossover solar (599 euro), 955 solar (650 euro) feels a bit too expensive for me. I like the sturdy look of an Instinct (have a original Instinct). But I would have to make a very difficult decision if my watch would stop working tomorrow. Would probably choose an Instinct 2 solar, hopefully with some discount. ;-)
Buy a regular 955 😅
It's interesting and shows me how I have changed as a consumer. If you'd shown me this when I first was interested in a sports tracking/GPS watch, I would have jumped at the chance! Now, I'd like the same features, just without the distracting hands 😅
It's a very good looking watch. I'm just hoping they fixed their Compass. I own the Instinct 2 and the compass reading goes way off the moment you tilt the watch at different angles.
I hope Garmin improved the issue with buttons getting stuck, especially for swimmers and other water based activities. My 2 instinct solar surf edition had this problem and looking to switch to the cross-over...
I do really really really like the look it's everything I've wanted from a "hybrid" smartwatch/military watch. Buttt I might have to wait till they have a 2nd edition with better solar power
Just picked one up for $350. Could not justify $450, much less $550 but at $350 this is a great purchase
I liked a lot you comments and tips!
Missing second hand is huge mistake with this model. I hope they include it in instinct Crossover 2
I think to buy a Instinct Cross in the future!
I really wanted hands, sooo bad. Wanted to remake one of other non-sport hybrid garmin watches - even bought phosphorous paint. But gave up the idea of braking the watch, just gave it away instead. I got crossover tactical, super happy with it, but I also thought that I am getting infinite battery life - didn't realise that I am loosing that to Instinct 2. I would not go for Instinct 2, because it didn't have hands. Sooo, I guess this is best for me anway. I switched from AppleWatch Ultra and Tactix Delta 6 - had to get used to small digital screen, but once got used to that I am super happy. I have an option to get back to Ultra or Delta, but not likely will happen in next 6months or so.
I just got this watch for 360 from amazon. I think that's the right price point for it. A watch is supposed to always tell the time quickly day and night and be pleasing to your eyes when you use it. If you add the garmin sports functionality to it, it might be my last watch. I hope. Every time I buy a new watch my wife looks at me sideways 😂
I want the Crossover so much, but I bought the Instinct 2 Solar when it came out earlier this year. So now i’m not sure if I want to spend another $1,150 AUD on a watch that’s very similar to my Instinct 2 Solar.
First world problems really.
e-ink screens for the win!
It’s doesn’t have an e-ink display, it’s MIP (memory in pixel). When you turn of the watch it doesn’t display anything. If it was e-ink it would still show something.
After seeing this, I’m more hopeful that newer Vivomove will be coming soon
Add a life long analogue watch wearer, this will be my first smart watch. I've looked at lots and seen many options for analogue displays but they just didn't hook me.
I just picked up a used solar model for $275 and I’m still not sure how I feel about it.
So what you avoiding saying is that the instinct 2 last longer and has all the functions I need but yet because of the 2nd hand on the cross over ...the new look should make me forget that I'm spending more on less battery and same functions...umm...got it!
Huh? I avoid saying nothing. If you don’t care about analog hands don’t buy it… it’s that simple.
Great stuff. Always love your content. I need some help. I’ve been using Fenix 3HR Titanium for several years (paired with Polar chest strap). Bought (then returned) several Garmins to replace it (5x, 5 plus, instinct, instinct 2 Solar..) My issue with the Instinct 2 Solar was readability especially at night when checking the time as the backlight would washout the screen. So I thought this Crossover would be the answer. Now with Fenix & epix series having touch screen, it’s making me curious about the Venu which I had never considered before. Also interested in the workout animations which I wouldn’t have on instinct. I mainly use it for strength training, running and training for occasional half marathons. I also play tennis but I don’t really need to track it. I’m about to turn 50 if that matters. Do you think the Venu would be sufficient? Thanks!
I think this will be my next Garmin watch because it has actual hands!
Wish you had covered what the tactical features are… otherwise a great video 👏 👏
The tactical features on the "tactical" model are the same as the Instinct 2 tactical which include stealth mode, killswitch, etc...
oh boy. After watching this review, i 'am now torn between the Garmin Forerunner 955 or this one as an xmas gift for my father. He's retired and lives a very active lifestyle (as do i). I thought about getting him a Forerunner or Epix2 (I have the Epix2, I converted from AW to Epix2 thanks to this channel), then I finally settled on the Forerunner and now this watch appears. Here we go. lol.
You are very luck getting to test and use all these different Garmin watches. Garmin offers such a diverse field of watches, each that have their own style and feature set. I personally really like this one (I like all the Instinct watches), and I had an Instinct solar for a year before my Fenix 7. I loved the comfort of the watch, and the tough look, but unfortunately I can own only one, and that is the Fenix 7 Sapphire Solar. In the end it is the watch that does it all for me, as I use it mostly for long distance hiking, running, and sometimes a stand-in for my Edge 1030 riding.
Instinct 2 looks miles better. Analogue hands just don't fit such rugged design. Reminds me of old plastic Casio Aviator watches (some models), which looked ridiculous. I own GW-3000BD though, those are beautiful - but they are fully analogue. That's just my opinion, of course.
Beauty is in the eye of the beholder of course!
It's really ironic that this watch comes out as I'm getting an itch for something in the ana-digi category and have been looking at a lot of G-Shock and Eco-Drive watches recently. I haven't pulled the trigger because Citizen and Casio do not offer any analog-digital watches with any kind of health and fitness monitoring. About the closest thing is the G-Shock Move GBD-H1000. Digital, with some health and fitness metrics, but no analog watch hands. This new Garmin will likely be my next watch! The 6 Pro has been on sale on Amazon for $350 USD lately, too. Decisions, decisions! 🤣
"I'm just a guy in TH-cam" makes me subscribe.
I agree. Looks really nice.
A year later and I'm considering the crossover. I had the fenix 3 for a long time. Went to the 6x to add heart rate and it's been great. But the hands appeal to me and the crossover has "windsurfing" which can't be added to my fenix 6x. So I either upgrade to a 7x/7xpro/epix2 or I can go with the crossover. With how I've always used my fenix, I don't use maps, I don't use music, and color really doesn't matter to me. The only real negative I see here is only 4 data fields during a recording, I use all 8 on my 6x... Yeah I can pick and choose and setup 2 screen but that's the one drawback. I'm a watch guy though so the look with actual hands has always appealed to me. The fact it has wind sports built in is a huge plus that pushing me towards it. These are now $350 so the "value" is a lot different. Thanks for the review.
Where are you seeing it for $350?
Yeah it is the Crossover for me as I've never liked that round separate display taking up room on the Instinct 2.
Just trying to catch some Casio marketshare. With inflation and little in the way of salary adjustments just yet, these costs can’t be justified IMO for what value is provided.
I bought this watch, I loved it for a month! After 1 months the thing quit tracking my all together.
Garmin can't help get it fixed either I'm very disappointed with my purchase considering the watch was brand new and gave up after 1 months....so much for durability, didn't even drop it.
Garmin watches are just Taiwanese plastic toys unfortunately I guess
Like garmin solar,my nex wachs crosstrek,nice introductions👍
Nice review! Thanks Volkanovski 👍
Hello, first of all, I like your videos. Does the Garmin instinct cross-over have turn by turn navigation via Google maps (through your smartphone)?. I am intrigued by the design.
It has turn by turn directions but not via Google Maps. Instead it's through Garmin Connect using their course builder tool.
I really like the fenix 3 because its rugged with a color screen and its cheap for its quality
But unfortunately it is discontinued😢
Have you ever used an Instinct crossover in the winter? Moisture is created between tempered glass and the main display...Maybe it's caused by the difference between the internal temperature of the crossover and the cold temperature outside...I wonder if it doesn't cause any problems with the watch.
I have the Apple Watch Ultra and Instinct 2 solar. I'm tempted to just on the crossover solar bandwagon. It does have that nostalgic premium feel/look to it. My Instinct 2 solar in white is ok, but looks to be a little less on the gshock and a bit more toyish... the Crossover solar looks a little classier and I don't care for the cutout circular display in the upper right corner. My ultra is ok, but I don't like the limited access to workout data and it lacks giving any reasonable health/data interpretations or advice... e.g. sleep recommendations, body battery, etc.
So you wear your AWU on one wrist and the Instinct 2 on the other?
I absolutely love my instinct ( the first version) but I am hoping to upgrade to the crossover solar or the instinct 2 solar , not sure Wich one yet
Nice review! Can you please show how new Instinct Crossover does display notifications from smartphones? Very appreciated!
It moves the hands into the horizontal position and shows the app name above the hands and the message below the hands.
hello, how strong is alarm vibration? I am thinking about upgrading to them, but I've been wearing garmin vivomove style for the past 3 years, and it does not wake me up, I just sleep through it. I''ve never had this problem with Xiaomi bands, or amazfit watches that I had previously.
Very good video!! Well done !
Thank you! Cheers!
I just wish the solar version had the white hands and hour-markers :/ I don't really like the grey hands and markers ... but i want Solar ... argh
Hold on. Just one thing that’s confusing me. I think garmin states that instinct 2 crossover have multiband gps. Or am i wrong. 🤔
Sent mine back yesterday after three weeks.
Sounds like you had it early.
Ordered on release date overnight.
I’ve heard the crossovers hands don’t stay calibrated to tell time accurately, have you had this issue?
They’ve been fine for me and there is a setting to correct them if they get too far out of whack.
All Systems means different GNSS Satellites on same frequency - GPS L1, Gallileo, BeiDou etc, where MultiBand is I.e. GPS L1 + Glonass or GPS L2 or L5 . So for Crossover they would need to invest in multiband (2 or more freq.) antenna to cover multiband GNSS 🫤 chipset would not do anything if there is no multiband antenna on board, not possible to change with software😢
I an still waiting for you Suunto 9 Peak Pro video, is it not coming🙄?
It's coming!
Great review as always but Garmin is literally high AF with that price.
It certainly aint cheap! Particularly when the Forerunner 955 is so close in price!
I am still waiting for this with Torch. Garmin please please.
This is Garmin eating away at Casio, before Casio actually gets to make their G-Shocks smart.
Hi, Alfredo from Venezuela, Please which would you take, A) Phenix 6 Pro, or B) FR 255 ? Thank you
If you value build quality and need real mapping go for the Fenix. If you want more accurate GPS and HR go for the 255.
On their website, it shows that the Instinct Crossover has the MULTI-GNSS SUPPORT. Should you check you watch again?
Multi-GNSS yes, but Multi-Band GNSS... No. There's a difference even though they sound very similar. Multi-band allows the watch utilize multiple bands simultaneously while mult-gnss is limited to a single band but does support multiple sat systems.
Is there a way to get seconds to show in one of the watch face fields? Other than the giant seconds in the background
good question! I was looking for it but couldn't find it selectable, did see that from other watch faces tho just not this one with chart on top half sadly
Does it have a digital clock option?
That's lume is very great on par with the Seikos
i love hybrid watch and this one look very good
Is there a way to quickly park the hands so they don't obscure screen info other than the way they move out of the way when using menus?
On the watch face? No I don’t believe so.
In the breadcrumbs GPS mode, can you scroll the map somehow in the event that a breadcrumb is due south and covered by the hand set that have tried to tuck themselves out of the way at the 6:30 position?
Yes, you can toggle left/right, up/down, and zoom in/out within the map page.
@@ChaseTheSummit ah that makes the map usable with the hands in the way
Thanks for the review. As always on a very high level.
Cool watch, albeit a bit to expensive for my taste.
Personally don't like it at all. Still very much mesmerized with my Epix 2. Greetings Dave!
I’m trying to decide between the crossover and the fenix 7 both are going to be solar. I typically run and do CrossFit everyday but I have a dirty out door job and I’m worried the fenix 7 getting messed up and the touchscreen eventually not working. I currently have the first instinct and it has worked Great. Any suggestions?
I have a Fenix 6 Sapphire. I have an outside job. My watch takes a beating every single day and it keeps on ticking. I had a Fenix 5 and that watch took a beating as well. I'm not saying they're G-Shocks but, they come close. You can't go wrong with either one you choose for every day outside work.
Put a screen protector on your Fenix, if it's not a sapphire one.
Good video man