you are correct I bought the Garmin Epix pro 51mm and all the hype around this watch was ridiculous, slow, maps load way to slow for a 1,200-dollar watch, Then the faces and apps are so under whelming it is just a joke. I'll never buy another over priced hyped up watch so what if it can make a call, my ultra can do everything this watch can do for less money, and I don't have to bring my phone to do so!!!!!!!!
This upgrade is de facto around the price of an iPhone 16 Pro Max and way above an Ultra 2. Bang for the buck falls short. You are on target with your review and I'm not pulling the trigger on it. (All puns intended;) Thank you for your honest and informative review as always!
Thanks for your honest review. Having to pay $5 for a new Garmin watch face is unacceptable, given the price you paid for the watch. You've always been extremely helpful when it comes to us purchasing a new watch. I appreciate your channel!
@@astasuleo I've purchased/returned many Garmin watches. I now have focused on Cris's opinion to help guide me. I know we are all different, as are our watch needs. He is my #1 person when it comes to Garmin or any competitor watch.
This is a problem across the Garmin ecosystem. The OEM should additional, quality watch faces, yet they rely on paid 3rd party developers to monetize. Charging for a Garmin developed watch face is petty.
Thanks for the thoughtful review. The trend that I see in the consumer electronics market is: incremental changes with out of line price increases; consumers keeping older gear longer; suppliers finding ways to force people to buy new models by doing things like dropping support for older, but still useful models.
It’s honestly wild, and not like if you trade in a watch that’s even a couple years old will net you much return on your money for a new one. I have a AW Ultra 2, and when I’m ready to get a new watch, I’ll likely sell it on eBay since you can get more of your money back.
I've never owned a Garmin watch, but from what you're saying, this is following the same trend that's become quite noticeable in technology today - push products out in an unfinished state just to get people to buy them, and then promise they will add the features on "later." All the major tech companies are operating this way now. It's a bad trend, and why people are falling for it left and right is beyond this old man. You buy the unfinished watch, they get your money for their bottom line, and you're left waiting around for promised "updates" at some future point in time. This world just gets stupider and stupider. Thanks for not being stupid, Chris!
I frickin love your review. Typically reviews fall into a couple of categories. You either get the "Access Review" where Garmin sends them a watch and they are very delicate about saying anything bad (if at all) and then you get the User Review where some poor guy just dumped 1200 bucks on his new Fenix 8 and refuses to give it a bad review because he doesn't want to be judged for wasting money on a bad product. Thank you for being fully transparent with this. I'd love to hear what kind of battery life you're getting from it under real world conditions.
Thank you - and for battery a little better than the spec they listed on the website - overall I can do 60-90 minute workout every day, long 6-10 hour hike on weekend, it goes down low but not on the edge of empty, and then charge it every week or so - enough so that I don't have to think about it much
These were pretty much exactly the reasons why I returned mine. I was so stoked to get the 8 that I sold my Epix Pro and Apple Watch Ultra just to cover that ridiculous price. (Which I’m not gonna lie I thought about for a few minutes before placing the order.) but overall you said it perfectly, it did not feel like a premium experience. It felt very rushed out, lots of bugs, the watch faces were terrible, and the watch faces that Garmin sells are not any better plus you have to pay, it has the exact same features as the Epix pro except with a more modern UI, and the speaker/microphone Were not really that helpful. The times that I took calls or had to reply to messages it almost seemed easier to just pull out my phone than to try to reply through the watch or hear whatever was said from the microphone on a call. Overall, I was extremely disappointed ended up returning it, got a used ultra two and purchased my wife a titanium series 10… And still had money left.
@@derksenjennyhaha not going to lie I contemplated the 10 for a couple of days but ultimately all my bands would match the AWU better and I knew I would end up missing the battery life and action button 😅
I was waiting for this kind of review for weeks! I currently have the Epix Pro 51 and was seriously considering the F8 only for the sealed buttons (I don't dive though, it's just a safety feature that I like). I've been restless for the past days cause it's a tough decision due to the price point. Your video made me realize that the upgrade is not worth it for now. Thank you because you saved me a ton of bucks! Please keep honest and practical reviews coming. Subbed!
Thank you and yea, over the years of having used a Garmin watch without the dive buttons, never ever had a problem with water getting into the watch. These are just sealed to a certain depth level.
@Hikingguy I realize that. I'm on fenix since fenix 3, then 5, 6 and 7, and now, epix. I never had an issue once with water coming in. Guess I'm just making an excuse to get the 8 😅 But I'll pass for now. Thanks to you!
Thanks for the unbiased review. I’m happy with my forerunner 965 and will probably stay with this for awhile. This is my first Garmin watch. I left the Apple Watch Ultra for better battery life with the Garmin
Thank you for the honest review. Wow! I would expect more for $1200, especially a wide variety of watch faces. I have not used a Garmin, but slow rendering maps would drive me crazy, as I like to pan and zoom to anticipate what is ahead and consider alternate routes, when I am on a hike.
I totally agree, I got the Fenix 8 47mm. The state the software was in is a disgrace for a watch with that price. I also found the font worse than previous models. The response of the assistant or maps is also very slow. Speaker volume weak and for me almost unusable. Long delay when receiving a call. For me, all the above mentioned innovations are not worth it at all due to the fact that they are not debugged and for me this is the first disappointment from Garmin since the model 3. I returned the watch. Thx for video. I agree with you 100%
Thanks for sharing that, good (and bad) to know it's not just me. I always try to give gear a fair shake and the F8 was the buggiest and most disappointing new Garmin product that I ever got.
@@Hikingguy For someone who was waiting for the reviews before buying and was considering switching to 8, what you write is priceless. It seems that if it was to be Fenix 8, you have to wait for software improvements and/or bigger discounts. What disappointment, was not expecting that from Garmin.
Fenix should be the tool watch line from Garmin. If I want a nice toy, I’ll go Apple. I couldn’t care less about voice commands etc (and they made it so complicated that it’s basically useless anyway). Its core features should work no matter what. That it crashes during active navigation is unacceptable. I have an old Fenix 6 that suddenly installed a firmware update during a multi hour hike, lost my whole gps track for the day and had to play around with the watch when I least wanted to. They need to get the basic stuff right first, including the mess of different apps for inReach, navigation, devices etc. Not including features nobody asked for. Charging for watch faces has to be a joke. Thanks for your review.
Thanks for the great honest review, currently a Garmin Enduro 2 Solar owner and debating whether to upgrade or not. As a hiker and ultra runner battery life is key along with other key features that Garmin offers. Last Garmin upgrade was from Garmin 6x to the Enduro 2 and happy to have done so.
Charging for watch face is a bit crazy for Garmin. This whole Fenix 8 from 7 is just not Necessary, it's at best a 7+.. Thanks for the honest thoughts about this.
Mine is an older fenix, but it seems that the faces that have a cost are from independent developers (not from Garmin), in which case it's simply a matter of paying the developer for his product. I don't see a problem with that. I purchased one face that way. (I did have some questions when setting it up, and the developer personally helped me out)
Join the club my man ❤️ Really appreciate your honest thoughts! I got a lot of criticism for calling this out on my video, nice to to know I’m not the only one experiencing bugs and being honest about it.. especially for the price🔥
I bought a 7X solar when it came out and thought I'd "never" would feel the urge to upgrade. The only way I'd get to try a Fenix 8 is to buy it so I haven't used one but seen a couple of reviews including this video. For me the two (related) new functions that make me want the Fenix 8 is voice commands and the ability to answer phone calls. Better battery life would of course also be welcome if it's only incremental, but the price is high, particularly since my watch isn't three years old yet.
I haven't found the voice commands / new functions that great, but I'm comparing from an Apple Watch where they're integrated well. You might want to get one, try it, treat it gently, and then return it if the voice stuff isn't doing what you'd like it to.
@@Hikingguy Thanks for the reply. I've seen demos of voice commands in some videos and they are not exactly fast in use. But I don't expect Apple watch performance from a Garmin just like I don't expect Garmin Fenix-like battery life from an Apple watch (sadly). To me battery life trumps usability in other areas so for me and Garmin was the first "smart watch" that offered enough battery life and enough functionality to be interesting. My last watch before the Garmin was Casio Protrek with altimeter, compass etc where the battery (or rater capacitor) have worked 15+ years without problems on solar only.
I appreciate your honesty. I have an Instinct Solar (v1) and was considering the new Fenix 8. I’ll be waiting until til the bugs get worked out and Garmin realizes that the older watch faces should be included before even considering upgrading.
So many reviews review vs latest models whereas many of us have older models where the changes are more significant. I have upgraded from Fenix 6 Pro. It’s a real step change and a huge upgrade. Could not be happier.
Thanks for always being open about what you think and what your experience has been, being realistic, whatever the product. (I've got the Epix Pro, and will stick with that for some time!)
You know the US economy is doing okay when companies be dropping mediocre products for $$$ and people still be buying. Looking at you Garmin, Apple, Google, Sony, etc.
Upgraded from the Epix 2 to the Fenix 8 Amoled. I waited 10 days so I think some of the bugs were worked out. Ive only had it reset on me once and it was when i was changing the watch face. I think its much better than my Epix 2. Flashlight, bigger screen nicer look at feel, better HR sensor I have no regrets. If I had the Epix 2 Pro I likely would not have been compelled. Ive been upgrading every other time...feels like the Pro cycles are always more polished and nice.
So much respect for you and your channel. Thank you for giving us the straight facts. I've used some of your links to buy stuff in the past, and I will continue to do so in the future. Your hiking guides and reviews have been a mainstay in my outdoorsy social media content- thank you!!
I’m a bit more “forgiving”regarding your mostly accurate and valid criticisms. But I upgraded from a Fenix 5x plus and the Fenix 8 is leaps and bounds better then the Fenix 5. Yes there are bugs still and I found several watch faces on the IQ connect store that are far superior to the Garmin ones. Hopefully Garmin is watching and listening to your and others impressions and will quickly rectify the shortcomings. However I don’t regret buying the Fenix 8.
This is what I'm saying: Only the super hardcore are replacing a watch every year, so they're bound to be more disappointed than a more normal consumer who buys something every 3-4 generations.
Well, fenix is their flagship, so it's gonna be the most expensive. And really, all that changes the price, is the case size, and whether you want amoled or solar. And Its only gonna be $100 difference between the base model or the fully decked out 51mm.
I 💯 percent agreed. Great video. Not many videos talk about the garmin problems. I also have a big problem with the fenix 8. My sleep score/data keeps replacing with a nap data. So if I have a nap midday, my sleep data will disappear and only thing you can see your nap. That means you only slept 30 to 40 minutes a day according to the garmin. Contact garmin support. But no solid answer from them. one of the basic things missing from a very expensive watch
Yea for the top of the line watch, that stuff should not be there. If this were the Apple Watch 10, the problems would probably reported on the front page of the Wall St Journal.
I thought this video wasn't for me until the end when you showed my Fenix 5 :) . My good old trusty Fenix still works with a cable tie on the strap. In this economy, I'm now compelled to look at competitors like the Amazfit T-Rex 3 at $280 with 90% of the Fenix 8 features, a better screen, smoother UI and great GPS tracking!!!
This is the best review I read so far! Fantastic ~ I have the Epix Pro 51 and will stick with that one... I felt underwhelmed when the Fenix 8 was announced and I am so glad to see all my suspicions validated by an actual user. Maybe time to consider another brand in the near future. How is it possible that still NONE of the watch makers has been able to create a decent upgrade so far. Even the Apple Ultra 2 is really not much of an upgrade. Apple "could" make the perfect watch, but fails to copy the best things over from Garmin, Polar does the same, etc... come on how hard is it...
Thanks. It is always better to listen to reviews from people who have bought the gear themselves... It´s hard to be very critical if you hope to receive more gear for review down the line... I´m still happy with my Fenix 6, so I will stick with that for now...
appreciate the honest review, i was looking at the 8 not to upgrade for myself but for my wife and was already leaning towards the Enduro or Epix for her. I don't understand why they have added the speaker and microphone feature, seems like they are trying to push the Fenix more towards an Apple competitor. The price is ridiculous also, 1200 for a watch plus the same or more for a phone, wonder how expensive the HRM will be for the next gen watches. I jumped from Suunto to Garmin and with the recent improvements in Suunto watches i'm considering jumping back. I use a sports watch for just that, tracking my activities. I personally don't need more features that are next to useless i need better support, more accurate and faster technology, being able to answer the phone whilst out riding is not one of those features.
Love this, thanks! I LOVE my Epix 2 Pro 51mm and knew I wasn’t going to upgrade to the Fenix 8… but now I definitely know I won’t be. Maybe in a few years there will be a reason to, but I’ll continue to love my Epix Pro for now
Great unfiltered review. The only thing you said about it that I liked is the “week or two” of battery life. As an AW U2 user that’s pretty amazing. I watched this because you’ve compared AW with Garmin and stuck with Garmin, so it’s good to see what I’m missing out on (for future reference when my current watch is due for replacement). I don’t see any reason to switch anytime soon (I’ll just carry a battery bank but I will anyway for other devices). Btw, I used a Samsung watch before switching to Apple Watches. I always found the round face limiting in terms of screen real estate. And seeing your review, the huge border of unused space around the watch face display made the display itself look tiny and would really bug me. I like that I can make a phone call without the phone on the AW. Doing things solo I like that safety net - like say I fall down the stairs to my garage,’or get hurt working on property cleanup outside the house , etc, wouldn’t have the phone with me. That’s one reason I went for (and pay for) cellular connectivity in the AW. It’s not for casual calls (or vanity), rather for emergencies. It’s hard to see what about that watch that makes it worth $1,200, wow… Thanks for what you do.
If the user experience was the same as Apple's I'm afraid the battery life would be the same. The bad experience with the Fenix 8 disappointed me so much zu I bought the Ultra 2 and I am very satisfied. Even the batteries last less but again they have a much better charging method.
Yea the battery life is much better on the Garmin and they have all the health biomarkers built in, and play nice with other Garmin devices, power meters, etc. but outside of that, I do like the AW better. Overall it's just faster and way more polished. It's really about what you want and how much battery is important to you.
Thanks for your review. I have a Fenix 5 Plus that I was considering replacing with the Fenix 8 but now after watching and reading several reviews, I think I'm just going to hang onto to it until it dies.
I’m happy with my Epix Pro 51mm. I just wish it would get the new updated OS but joe maybe it’s best it keeps the old one. Thanks for your honest review.
Thanks, awesome video indeed! I'm thinking about to upgrade from FR965 to Fenix8 when my Oura ring dies. Garmin already makes better recovery and fitness analyze but the FR965 is with older HR sensor missing temperature measurement. I had to go for FR965 because the display was smaller in the Epix Pro 47mm series. Now it's better in Fenix 8. I'm very happy with the FR965 though, no need to upgrade until my Oura dies.
Great video! I own a Fenix 7 Sapphire, and would never upgrade to a Fenix 8 after 2,5 years only. My Fenix has to last at least 5 years before it get's replaced by an other Garmin watch, and if it don't last 5 years or more, I will probably buy a sport watch from an other brand.
8 years ago your videos inspired me to buy a Fēnix 3. That tough watch finally died after the button gasket seal gave out (in fairness, I took it into the sauna a TON), and now it's time for a new watch. After checking this one out, it seems like I might go with the Epix 2 or Fēnix 7x solar. Thanks, dude!
Ha that's awesome, and big thanks for watching and using the guides. Yea, if I was in your position I'd grab either one of those, better map detail, go Epix, more battery, go F7x, both great watches.
This is absolutely true. I was hyped when it released. Then saw the price and very little upgrades. Sold my 6s pro for 200€ and went for a used epix gen 2 @350€.
Thanks for the review, was looking at the upgrade to the 8. However I think I will stick with my Fenix 6X, I do a lot of short and long hikes in different parts of the world, it has never let me down. thanks again.
Well, I am a die-hard Garmin fanboy. I have always bought the latest and greatest Fenix/Tactix since the Tactix Bravo series... However, I have to admit that this is the first time that I feel that the new model would be a waste of money.... I currently own a Fenix 7 pro and I have to admit that the latest model doesn't offer anything that I don't already have. The MIP screen is a must for me as I usually go on multi-day events such as sailing, hiking or cycling... The Fenix 7 pro already has the 5th gen heart rate sensor, so that's something I already have. The microphone is completely unnecessary for me. I also appreciate the more mature, more reliable firmware (I used to test betas but there was far too much unnecessary frustration and wasted battery cycles...). So Garmin has made my life easier this time around, because I can't see any advantage with this model compared to my Fenix 7 pro... Maybe the Enduro 3 would be grate however I switched back to the 47mm case size because I feel more comfortable for daily driver.
Thanks for the unbiased review! I was thinking about it, not anymore. We, the average consumers, vote with our money, if nobody buys them, guess what’s going to happen 🎉
Very good video! I have Fenix 7 pro and I see absolutely no need to upgrade to Fenix 8. Fenix 7 pro has the exact same sensors that the Fenix 8 has. I don't need diving support, I don't dive. I don't want to use my watch as a phone, so that functionality does not bring any added value to me.
I think exactly like you. Garmin didn't have anything new and still wanted to launch something new... the result is terrible. I have the Epix 2 pro and I find it embarrassing in the use of trekking. Maps are slow to load and if you have to do a search it often crashes. Not worth the price.
Right on point great quick concise review. I appreciate your unbiased opinion. Was debating on swapping from my Ultra 1 to Garmin. I will save my $$ and wait for new versions. Cheers.
Great video, always. I have a fēnix 6X - Pro Solar since November 2024. If I had to upgrade right now, I would go for an Enduro 3. Yes, the screen is way nicer on the Epix, or the Fenix, but I can leave with the MIP screen. I do hiking, biking, walking, and running with my watch. Why pay more to get a Fenix 8 to get so little?
Thanks for the honest review. I have the 7 solar and no reason to upgrade but was kinda leaning due to the brighter screen and voice call options. I think maybe in a year when the price settles and the kinks are worked out it could be a good upgrade.
Not harsh at all. There shouldn't be any "early adopter" problems like this with a company like Garmin that's been at this for a long time. Still looks like an amazing watch because of the screen! Not amazing enough to upgrade from my Fenix 7 though.
Thanks for sharing your thoughts. I was about to pull the trigger on one until my friends one had terrible laggy issues and would restart at random times like you mentioned. Really is a disgrace garmin would rush this out. Greed! Many are switching to the amazfit t rex 3 which i know nothing about! But reading some reddits!
I had the opportunity to switch to the 8, but after seeing the prices, decided to jump from Garmin. The company is clearly going the way of greed now. Moved to the AW Ultra, and couldn’t be happier. Being with Garmin for over 10yrs, I do miss the buttons, but will get used to without.
I’m enjoying my Venu 3 which I got sub 400£ lol, only bad thing about this watch is that glass on front scratches like crazy. Garmin is nuts for new fenix and new price
What a great review!!! Thank you for the honesty. I bought my epix pro gen 2 51mm sapphire 3 months ago, there is no way ,no way at all that i would switched for the 8. There's nothing, absolutely nothing on that watch that will make me even consider any switch.
Thanks a lot for not including music and for not overlaying the end and beginning of sentences as in so many other review videos. Was the ‘Enduro 3*’ HRM a real option for you? I am considering the latter as a replacement for my 'Fenix 6' Sapphire. Unfortunately and after checking with Garmin here in Australia, the battry of my 'Fenix 6' is not replacable. So, throwing a A$1,400 HRM into a recycling bin every few years or so?
I was going to try the Enduro 3 but I'm getting feedback that folks are seeing software bugs as well. Overall it's a better value, it drops all the voice stuff which you probably don't need anyway. I like that it just focuses on what Garmin does well, which is rugged activity tracking. Might pick it up still but it's still a lot of $$$$
@@Hikingguy Thank you for your response and yes indeed, the smartwatch functions of the latest Fenix line are most definitely a distraction, at least for me.
great review, many reviewers arent liking the 8. it looks like the 7 pro is a much better option at this point or wait till the 8 pro comes out and hope they've fixed the bugs on the 8 series
Thanks for sharing your thoughts. I watched many videos about it. Finally an honest opinion. I had an Epix2 and having phantom clicks, first, and an endless reboot loop, second, i gave up. Great watches, but not top notch. I have to rely on this, so bugs are a no go. At this price it is supposed to be premium.
I had the same “side press buttons does not work” issues with my epix pro 2, that’s a defect that garmin processes for me under warranty at no cost. I feel that not addressing perfect button action issue they had for years will definitely become unacceptable at a certain price point
Exactly the review I was looking for! Well done. Have been thinking about upgrading my Fenix 5X to a discounted new or lightly used Epix Pro 51. Only reason is my battery on the 5X is cooked. Thoughts?
Great review. Think you always give great in depth, honest real world assessments of these watches. For me, I had a Vivoactive 4 that was end of life. I was waiting for the Fenix 8 as my replacement but about a month ago found a deal on a Tactix 7 Anoled for under £900 so I bought that instead and couldn’t be happier. I still think Garmin have a long way to go to improve the user experience if these watches. Don’t get me wrong, I would always chose a Garmin over anything else because as a tool watch they are simply the best at what they do. I love the onboard mapping and navigation and battery life, but the clunky UI and processor speeds still need work if they are to continue as a leader in this field.
Thank you and glad you got that deal on the Tactix 7, a great watch. Maybe we'll get some more competition in the space. Hoping the next Coros has onboard maps and routing.
Whoops. Garmin pushing the limits of the customers. But not in a good, sporty way. Rather a test of their wallet :D I'm glad I opted for the Epix Pro Gen 2 last year. Thanks for the honest review!
I'm holding off for a few months to see what comes in new firmware updates in the next bit. Hopefully Garmin listens to feedback and adds some more watch faces and smooths things over a bit. I still think it's a compelling upgrade for me from my Forerunner 945. I've never owned a Fenix before and it should be a noticeable upgrade for me with the AMOLED display, touch screen, and way better HR and GPS. Garmin definitely didn't include enough to make it tempting to upgrade for Fenix 7 users and as you said, that's a problem. They need to do more than a shitty speaker and voice commands.
Here's a thought I'd Amoled vs MIPs. A battery on the watch has a half life of 500 charges. The AMOLED needs to be charged 3 times as frequent. This means reliability of the MIPS watch is going to be better.
Hi Cris. Thanks for the review from an experienced hiker's perspective. I've been debating if I really need a watch. I'm currently using my phone with Gaia and have a Mini InReach2. On the Garmin Explore app, I'm not sure if I'm missing something but I notice that TopoActive maps do not have trail names. On the Garmin Explore website, street maps have trail names but not TopoActive. Does Fenix have trail names on the watch or do trail names require a paid map pack?
Garmin is aiming at older garmin users and the samsung and apple ultra users, The option to take a phonecall, to talk to siri,.. is a major one for a former smartwatch user. The update for the case is a major one for divers but also whitewater use, waterski and any long term user that pushes the buttons under water for a few years,... The watch has to be durable and get some upgrades because people expect to use a garmin watch for a decent amount of time. If the next generation comes with major upgrades and they get the feeling they are missing important features forcing them to upgrade in one year they will feel pretty sour,.. For a youtube reviewer small gradual upgrades are hard, for the user and the brand they are pretty fine. Samsung doesn't count on you changing from the 23 to the 24 and to the 25, they expect you to drop a few modelers except when they can trick you into going into a new format, a folding phone that might replace a tablet for instance... The samsung ultra comes 2 years after the pro. The same goes for 🍎,... There is no apple ultra 3 because a major upgrade that would date the ultra 2 would come way to soon,.. Garmin doesn't count on fenix 7 or epic users to change, these days are far beyond in tech,... it's a watch, if you change it after one or 2 years it's because you didn't like it and you are improbable to buy the same brand,.... If the generational upgrades are to big old users feel tricked and garmin wants you to buy/ rent maps, to use farmin pay,...
YES! There's just no way a youtube reviewer is going to be impressed by the changes every single year, especially when they don't use the major new (and expensive AF) feature: Diving. I was really close to getting a couple of MK3i's for the wife and I, so I'm super stoked about this release: Basically everything I need, and the price difference will save me more thatn the price of our next trip to the Maldives ;-)
$5 for a watch face 🤦🏻. Well I like the F8 watch face, found it free on connect store and installed on my Epix. A quick orange band upgrade and I’m rocking a new watch. There wasn’t a compelling reason to upgrade this time. Maybe if LTE….I’ll hang on the Epix a couple more years.
Thank you !! You right on your reviews its spot on.!! I was about to get it from REI since i have a gift card $500.00 Thank goodness my notification was on and watch your comment.appreciate your time. Hello from sacramento,california
@@Hikingguy I use combo Tactix 7 AMOLED plus GPSMAP 66s; for hiking and for biking; track (course) planning in apps on iPhone or laptop - I cannot imagine, what functions could be added to have reason to upgrade; IMHO these products are almost "complete" and there's nothing new to invent
These are the errors, bugs, and lag I experience. Even after the last update 11.60. Nap bug, weather bug, agenda bug, low brightness in the dark, low volume phone call, low volume speaker, laggy maps, laggy watch faces, Garmin pay does not give a signal when you have paid so you think you have not paid, swipe down looking at the widgets regularly causes the watch to crash, when the earbuds are connected the music comes from the watch and from the earbuds at the same time, Do not disturb mode does not work, no TH-cam music available. The titanium casing also scratches quite quickly.After two weeks I already had a scratch on it that I don't even know where it came from. This watch is definitely not worth €1200, but rather €500, and even if everything works well, this watch is never worth that much money. You are being deceived in front of you.
I was just thinking about pulling the trigger on one of these. Thanks for walking me back. My Apple Watch Ultra broke and I’m thinking of going back to Garmin. Maybe save a few bucks and get the 7?
This is a good watch to skip. You can tell theyre going into the smartwatch direction. But there are alot of misses here. Also the color scheme of the base/marketed watch is too apple watch like. Boring.
What do you guys think? Am I being harsh or I am I right in expecting more for the price?
No, you are right. This is not an Apple Watch, this is for people that need reliability and practical usefulness in the field.
Spot on. Garmin is smoking crack asking for that much money. Greedflation.
you are correct I bought the Garmin Epix pro 51mm and all the hype around this watch was ridiculous, slow, maps load way to slow for a 1,200-dollar watch, Then the faces and apps are so under whelming it is just a joke. I'll never buy another over priced hyped up watch so what if it can make a call, my ultra can do everything this watch can do for less money, and I don't have to bring my phone to do so!!!!!!!!
This upgrade is de facto around the price of an iPhone 16 Pro Max and way above an Ultra 2. Bang for the buck falls short. You are on target with your review and I'm not pulling the trigger on it. (All puns intended;) Thank you for your honest and informative review as always!
@@gbhummel same here
Thanks for your honest review. Having to pay $5 for a new Garmin watch face is unacceptable, given the price you paid for the watch. You've always been extremely helpful when it comes to us purchasing a new watch. I appreciate your channel!
Thank you appreciate that.
same here, i really check his honest reviews as it helps a lot to have a better understanding and make the right decision.
@@astasuleo I've purchased/returned many Garmin watches. I now have focused on Cris's opinion to help guide me. I know we are all different, as are our watch needs. He is my #1 person when it comes to Garmin or any competitor watch.
This is a problem across the Garmin ecosystem. The OEM should additional, quality watch faces, yet they rely on paid 3rd party developers to monetize. Charging for a Garmin developed watch face is petty.
Thanks for the thoughtful review. The trend that I see in the consumer electronics market is: incremental changes with out of line price increases; consumers keeping older gear longer; suppliers finding ways to force people to buy new models by doing things like dropping support for older, but still useful models.
It’s honestly wild, and not like if you trade in a watch that’s even a couple years old will net you much return on your money for a new one.
I have a AW Ultra 2, and when I’m ready to get a new watch, I’ll likely sell it on eBay since you can get more of your money back.
Great video once again. I've had the Fenix 7 for a couple years and love it. I will not be 'upgrading', thanks again!
I've never owned a Garmin watch, but from what you're saying, this is following the same trend that's become quite noticeable in technology today - push products out in an unfinished state just to get people to buy them, and then promise they will add the features on "later." All the major tech companies are operating this way now. It's a bad trend, and why people are falling for it left and right is beyond this old man. You buy the unfinished watch, they get your money for their bottom line, and you're left waiting around for promised "updates" at some future point in time. This world just gets stupider and stupider. Thanks for not being stupid, Chris!
I frickin love your review. Typically reviews fall into a couple of categories. You either get the "Access Review" where Garmin sends them a watch and they are very delicate about saying anything bad (if at all) and then you get the User Review where some poor guy just dumped 1200 bucks on his new Fenix 8 and refuses to give it a bad review because he doesn't want to be judged for wasting money on a bad product. Thank you for being fully transparent with this. I'd love to hear what kind of battery life you're getting from it under real world conditions.
Thank you - and for battery a little better than the spec they listed on the website - overall I can do 60-90 minute workout every day, long 6-10 hour hike on weekend, it goes down low but not on the edge of empty, and then charge it every week or so - enough so that I don't have to think about it much
These were pretty much exactly the reasons why I returned mine. I was so stoked to get the 8 that I sold my Epix Pro and Apple Watch Ultra just to cover that ridiculous price. (Which I’m not gonna lie I thought about for a few minutes before placing the order.) but overall you said it perfectly, it did not feel like a premium experience. It felt very rushed out, lots of bugs, the watch faces were terrible, and the watch faces that Garmin sells are not any better plus you have to pay, it has the exact same features as the Epix pro except with a more modern UI, and the speaker/microphone Were not really that helpful. The times that I took calls or had to reply to messages it almost seemed easier to just pull out my phone than to try to reply through the watch or hear whatever was said from the microphone on a call. Overall, I was extremely disappointed ended up returning it, got a used ultra two and purchased my wife a titanium series 10… And still had money left.
Exactly 😢
I did exactly the same 😅accept my husband got the ten. And I an ultra 2 on sale . I’m so happy to get it back. But lost a lot of money such a shame !
@@derksenjennyhaha not going to lie I contemplated the 10 for a couple of days but ultimately all my bands would match the AWU better and I knew I would end up missing the battery life and action button 😅
@@MigRx great choice !
You should have got the Epix Pro again. AWU is for charger aficionados
I was waiting for this kind of review for weeks! I currently have the Epix Pro 51 and was seriously considering the F8 only for the sealed buttons (I don't dive though, it's just a safety feature that I like). I've been restless for the past days cause it's a tough decision due to the price point. Your video made me realize that the upgrade is not worth it for now. Thank you because you saved me a ton of bucks! Please keep honest and practical reviews coming. Subbed!
Same here
@@GoandLove glad to have found this video 😀
Thank you and yea, over the years of having used a Garmin watch without the dive buttons, never ever had a problem with water getting into the watch. These are just sealed to a certain depth level.
@Hikingguy I realize that. I'm on fenix since fenix 3, then 5, 6 and 7, and now, epix. I never had an issue once with water coming in. Guess I'm just making an excuse to get the 8 😅
But I'll pass for now. Thanks to you!
Agree. Epix pro 51 is fenix 8 minus dive and speaker. Not worth it at all. Will evaluate fenix 9 in a few years to see if even worth it then
Got it, thanks. I’ll hang on to my Fenix 5X. Love your channel and thanks for your straightforward advice 👍
Thanks for the unbiased review. I’m happy with my forerunner 965 and will probably stay with this for awhile. This is my first Garmin watch. I left the Apple Watch Ultra for better battery life with the Garmin
This "buy a Garmin watch face on top of your overpriced watch" is crazy. You are right about that. I will keep my F7X Pro.
Thank you for the honest review. Wow! I would expect more for $1200, especially a wide variety of watch faces. I have not used a Garmin, but slow rendering maps would drive me crazy, as I like to pan and zoom to anticipate what is ahead and consider alternate routes, when I am on a hike.
I totally agree, I got the Fenix 8 47mm. The state the software was in is a disgrace for a watch with that price. I also found the font worse than previous models. The response of the assistant or maps is also very slow. Speaker volume weak and for me almost unusable. Long delay when receiving a call. For me, all the above mentioned innovations are not worth it at all due to the fact that they are not debugged and for me this is the first disappointment from Garmin since the model 3. I returned the watch. Thx for video. I agree with you 100%
Thanks for sharing that, good (and bad) to know it's not just me. I always try to give gear a fair shake and the F8 was the buggiest and most disappointing new Garmin product that I ever got.
@@Hikingguy For someone who was waiting for the reviews before buying and was considering switching to 8, what you write is priceless. It seems that if it was to be Fenix 8, you have to wait for software improvements and/or bigger discounts. What disappointment, was not expecting that from Garmin.
@@noisetin Appreciate that, thank you
@@Driji returned mine as well. Quite surprised considering Garmin has been very good over many years.
I have a 5x, and it still works perfectly. Very happy since day 1. I have to keep it until it breaks. I really fancy the 8, but I can't justify it
As a long time Garmin/Fenix/Epix fellow user and trail enthusiast, your review was extremely helpful.
Thank you!
Fenix should be the tool watch line from Garmin. If I want a nice toy, I’ll go Apple. I couldn’t care less about voice commands etc (and they made it so complicated that it’s basically useless anyway). Its core features should work no matter what. That it crashes during active navigation is unacceptable. I have an old Fenix 6 that suddenly installed a firmware update during a multi hour hike, lost my whole gps track for the day and had to play around with the watch when I least wanted to. They need to get the basic stuff right first, including the mess of different apps for inReach, navigation, devices etc. Not including features nobody asked for. Charging for watch faces has to be a joke. Thanks for your review.
'' Fenix should be the tool watch line from Garmin. If I want a nice toy, I’ll go Apple.''
Exactly!!!
Best advert I’ve seen not to buy. Happily staying with the 7
Thanks hiking guy. I'll keep rocking my Fenix 6 which actually I have zero complaints with.....
Thanks for the great honest review, currently a Garmin Enduro 2 Solar owner and debating whether to upgrade or not. As a hiker and ultra runner battery life is key along with other key features that Garmin offers. Last Garmin upgrade was from Garmin 6x to the Enduro 2 and happy to have done so.
@@expatadventureturkey9324 same, enduro 2 here. I’ve had mine almost two years since launch and it’s been flawless. Not upgrading anytime soon.
Thanks for the review. I’m still enjoying my Fenix 5 Plus.
Charging for watch face is a bit crazy for Garmin. This whole Fenix 8 from 7 is just not Necessary, it's at best a 7+.. Thanks for the honest thoughts about this.
Mine is an older fenix, but it seems that the faces that have a cost are from independent developers (not from Garmin), in which case it's simply a matter of paying the developer for his product. I don't see a problem with that. I purchased one face that way. (I did have some questions when setting it up, and the developer personally helped me out)
@@theronwolf3296 if you look under developer info, it says Garmin.
Join the club my man ❤️ Really appreciate your honest thoughts! I got a lot of criticism for calling this out on my video, nice to to know I’m not the only one experiencing bugs and being honest about it.. especially for the price🔥
Good to know, thank you, will check your video out
@@Hikingguy cheers man ❤️
I bought a 7X solar when it came out and thought I'd "never" would feel the urge to upgrade. The only way I'd get to try a Fenix 8 is to buy it so I haven't used one but seen a couple of reviews including this video. For me the two (related) new functions that make me want the Fenix 8 is voice commands and the ability to answer phone calls. Better battery life would of course also be welcome if it's only incremental, but the price is high, particularly since my watch isn't three years old yet.
I haven't found the voice commands / new functions that great, but I'm comparing from an Apple Watch where they're integrated well. You might want to get one, try it, treat it gently, and then return it if the voice stuff isn't doing what you'd like it to.
@@Hikingguy Thanks for the reply. I've seen demos of voice commands in some videos and they are not exactly fast in use. But I don't expect Apple watch performance from a Garmin just like I don't expect Garmin Fenix-like battery life from an Apple watch (sadly).
To me battery life trumps usability in other areas so for me and Garmin was the first "smart watch" that offered enough battery life and enough functionality to be interesting.
My last watch before the Garmin was Casio Protrek with altimeter, compass etc where the battery (or rater capacitor) have worked 15+ years without problems on solar only.
I appreciate your honesty. I have an Instinct Solar (v1) and was considering the new Fenix 8. I’ll be waiting until til the bugs get worked out and Garmin realizes that the older watch faces should be included before even considering upgrading.
And still then it's not worth above the 1000€ but more like 500€..
Yep, looks like I'm sticking with my Fenix 7!
So many reviews review vs latest models whereas many of us have older models where the changes are more significant. I have upgraded from Fenix 6 Pro. It’s a real step change and a huge upgrade. Could not be happier.
Thanks for always being open about what you think and what your experience has been, being realistic, whatever the product. (I've got the Epix Pro, and will stick with that for some time!)
Garmin got my money with a Fenix 7 Solar and it's an EXCELLENT product. Gonna cherish it!
You know the US economy is doing okay when companies be dropping mediocre products for $$$ and people still be buying. Looking at you Garmin, Apple, Google, Sony, etc.
Plus the new $700 PS5 pro...like what
Upgraded from the Epix 2 to the Fenix 8 Amoled. I waited 10 days so I think some of the bugs were worked out. Ive only had it reset on me once and it was when i was changing the watch face. I think its much better than my Epix 2. Flashlight, bigger screen nicer look at feel, better HR sensor I have no regrets. If I had the Epix 2 Pro I likely would not have been compelled. Ive been upgrading every other time...feels like the Pro cycles are always more polished and nice.
So much respect for you and your channel. Thank you for giving us the straight facts. I've used some of your links to buy stuff in the past, and I will continue to do so in the future. Your hiking guides and reviews have been a mainstay in my outdoorsy social media content- thank you!!
Big big thank you for the nice note and support! Appreciate it
I’m a bit more “forgiving”regarding your mostly accurate and valid criticisms. But I upgraded from a Fenix 5x plus and the Fenix 8 is leaps and bounds better then the Fenix 5. Yes there are bugs still and I found several watch faces on the IQ connect store that are far superior to the Garmin ones. Hopefully Garmin is watching and listening to your and others impressions and will quickly rectify the shortcomings. However I don’t regret buying the Fenix 8.
This is what I'm saying: Only the super hardcore are replacing a watch every year, so they're bound to be more disappointed than a more normal consumer who buys something every 3-4 generations.
This has really provided an insight. Speaking as a long time Garmin Fenix owner. Thank you
$1000 for a entry level Fenix? I'm gonna pass and hope others do as well. Garmin needs to get off their high horse....
Well, fenix is their flagship, so it's gonna be the most expensive. And really, all that changes the price, is the case size, and whether you want amoled or solar. And Its only gonna be $100 difference between the base model or the fully decked out 51mm.
I 💯 percent agreed. Great video. Not many videos talk about the garmin problems. I also have a big problem with the fenix 8. My sleep score/data keeps replacing with a nap data. So if I have a nap midday, my sleep data will disappear and only thing you can see your nap. That means you only slept 30 to 40 minutes a day according to the garmin. Contact garmin support. But no solid answer from them. one of the basic things missing from a very expensive watch
Yea for the top of the line watch, that stuff should not be there. If this were the Apple Watch 10, the problems would probably reported on the front page of the Wall St Journal.
I thought this video wasn't for me until the end when you showed my Fenix 5 :) . My good old trusty Fenix still works with a cable tie on the strap. In this economy, I'm now compelled to look at competitors like the Amazfit T-Rex 3 at $280 with 90% of the Fenix 8 features, a better screen, smoother UI and great GPS tracking!!!
This is the best review I read so far! Fantastic ~ I have the Epix Pro 51 and will stick with that one... I felt underwhelmed when the Fenix 8 was announced and I am so glad to see all my suspicions validated by an actual user. Maybe time to consider another brand in the near future. How is it possible that still NONE of the watch makers has been able to create a decent upgrade so far. Even the Apple Ultra 2 is really not much of an upgrade. Apple "could" make the perfect watch, but fails to copy the best things over from Garmin, Polar does the same, etc... come on how hard is it...
You have 100% right.I return it back and I buy AWU2.
Thanks for the honest oppinion! The gray design intrigued me, but my Fenix 7X is still going strong!
Thanks. It is always better to listen to reviews from people who have bought the gear themselves... It´s hard to be very critical if you hope to receive more gear for review down the line... I´m still happy with my Fenix 6, so I will stick with that for now...
Thanks for the honest review. That’s why people come to your channel.
appreciate the honest review, i was looking at the 8 not to upgrade for myself but for my wife and was already leaning towards the Enduro or Epix for her. I don't understand why they have added the speaker and microphone feature, seems like they are trying to push the Fenix more towards an Apple competitor. The price is ridiculous also, 1200 for a watch plus the same or more for a phone, wonder how expensive the HRM will be for the next gen watches. I jumped from Suunto to Garmin and with the recent improvements in Suunto watches i'm considering jumping back. I use a sports watch for just that, tracking my activities. I personally don't need more features that are next to useless i need better support, more accurate and faster technology, being able to answer the phone whilst out riding is not one of those features.
Love this, thanks! I LOVE my Epix 2 Pro 51mm and knew I wasn’t going to upgrade to the Fenix 8… but now I definitely know I won’t be. Maybe in a few years there will be a reason to, but I’ll continue to love my Epix Pro for now
Great unfiltered review. The only thing you said about it that I liked is the “week or two” of battery life. As an AW U2 user that’s pretty amazing. I watched this because you’ve compared AW with Garmin and stuck with Garmin, so it’s good to see what I’m missing out on (for future reference when my current watch is due for replacement). I don’t see any reason to switch anytime soon (I’ll just carry a battery bank but I will anyway for other devices).
Btw, I used a Samsung watch before switching to Apple Watches. I always found the round face limiting in terms of screen real estate. And seeing your review, the huge border of unused space around the watch face display made the display itself look tiny and would really bug me.
I like that I can make a phone call without the phone on the AW. Doing things solo I like that safety net - like say I fall down the stairs to my garage,’or get hurt working on property cleanup outside the house , etc, wouldn’t have the phone with me. That’s one reason I went for (and pay for) cellular connectivity in the AW. It’s not for casual calls (or vanity), rather for emergencies.
It’s hard to see what about that watch that makes it worth $1,200, wow…
Thanks for what you do.
If the user experience was the same as Apple's I'm afraid the battery life would be the same. The bad experience with the Fenix 8 disappointed me so much zu I bought the Ultra 2 and I am very satisfied. Even the batteries last less but again they have a much better charging method.
Yea the battery life is much better on the Garmin and they have all the health biomarkers built in, and play nice with other Garmin devices, power meters, etc. but outside of that, I do like the AW better. Overall it's just faster and way more polished. It's really about what you want and how much battery is important to you.
Funny you say that, I've been trying out my AWU2 more since finishing this review. Playing around with the vitals app in the new beta, etc.
Thanks for your review. I have a Fenix 5 Plus that I was considering replacing with the Fenix 8 but now after watching and reading several reviews, I think I'm just going to hang onto to it until it dies.
I’m happy with my Epix Pro 51mm. I just wish it would get the new updated OS but joe maybe it’s best it keeps the old one. Thanks for your honest review.
Most honest review so far, nice vid !
Thanks, awesome video indeed! I'm thinking about to upgrade from FR965 to Fenix8 when my Oura ring dies. Garmin already makes better recovery and fitness analyze but the FR965 is with older HR sensor missing temperature measurement. I had to go for FR965 because the display was smaller in the Epix Pro 47mm series. Now it's better in Fenix 8. I'm very happy with the FR965 though, no need to upgrade until my Oura dies.
Great video! I own a Fenix 7 Sapphire, and would never upgrade to a Fenix 8 after 2,5 years only. My Fenix has to last at least 5 years before it get's replaced by an other Garmin watch, and if it don't last 5 years or more, I will probably buy a sport watch from an other brand.
8 years ago your videos inspired me to buy a Fēnix 3.
That tough watch finally died after the button gasket seal gave out (in fairness, I took it into the sauna a TON), and now it's time for a new watch.
After checking this one out, it seems like I might go with the Epix 2 or Fēnix 7x solar.
Thanks, dude!
Ha that's awesome, and big thanks for watching and using the guides. Yea, if I was in your position I'd grab either one of those, better map detail, go Epix, more battery, go F7x, both great watches.
@Hikingguy Right on. And I'm like you; not doing any diving!
This is absolutely true. I was hyped when it released. Then saw the price and very little upgrades. Sold my 6s pro for 200€ and went for a used epix gen 2 @350€.
Great and honest video. Not looking for a watch like this but appreciate the content, recommendation and as I mentioned before, honesty.
Thanks for the review, was looking at the upgrade to the 8. However I think I will stick with my Fenix 6X, I do a lot of short and long hikes in different parts of the world, it has never let me down. thanks again.
It's not overly harsh at all. A $1,000 dollar watch should have $1,000 quality. I would return it and try the Enduro 3 instead.
Well, I am a die-hard Garmin fanboy. I have always bought the latest and greatest Fenix/Tactix since the Tactix Bravo series... However, I have to admit that this is the first time that I feel that the new model would be a waste of money.... I currently own a Fenix 7 pro and I have to admit that the latest model doesn't offer anything that I don't already have. The MIP screen is a must for me as I usually go on multi-day events such as sailing, hiking or cycling... The Fenix 7 pro already has the 5th gen heart rate sensor, so that's something I already have. The microphone is completely unnecessary for me. I also appreciate the more mature, more reliable firmware (I used to test betas but there was far too much unnecessary frustration and wasted battery cycles...). So Garmin has made my life easier this time around, because I can't see any advantage with this model compared to my Fenix 7 pro... Maybe the Enduro 3 would be grate however I switched back to the 47mm case size because I feel more comfortable for daily driver.
You are a pure guy! I like that.
Great review!
Thanks for the unbiased review! I was thinking about it, not anymore. We, the average consumers, vote with our money, if nobody buys them, guess what’s going to happen 🎉
Very good video! I have Fenix 7 pro and I see absolutely no need to upgrade to Fenix 8. Fenix 7 pro has the exact same sensors that the Fenix 8 has. I don't need diving support, I don't dive. I don't want to use my watch as a phone, so that functionality does not bring any added value to me.
I think exactly like you. Garmin didn't have anything new and still wanted to launch something new... the result is terrible. I have the Epix 2 pro and I find it embarrassing in the use of trekking. Maps are slow to load and if you have to do a search it often crashes. Not worth the price.
Right on point great quick concise review. I appreciate your unbiased opinion. Was debating on swapping from my Ultra 1 to Garmin. I will save my $$ and wait for new versions. Cheers.
Great video, always. I have a fēnix 6X - Pro Solar since November 2024. If I had to upgrade right now, I would go for an Enduro 3. Yes, the screen is way nicer on the Epix, or the Fenix, but I can leave with the MIP screen. I do hiking, biking, walking, and running with my watch. Why pay more to get a Fenix 8 to get so little?
Thank for the honest review. I am a Fénix 6 user, and I guess I’ll pass on the upgrade
Thanks for the honest review. I have the 7 solar and no reason to upgrade but was kinda leaning due to the brighter screen and voice call options. I think maybe in a year when the price settles and the kinks are worked out it could be a good upgrade.
Not harsh at all. There shouldn't be any "early adopter" problems like this with a company like Garmin that's been at this for a long time. Still looks like an amazing watch because of the screen! Not amazing enough to upgrade from my Fenix 7 though.
Thanks for sharing your thoughts. I was about to pull the trigger on one until my friends one had terrible laggy issues and would restart at random times like you mentioned. Really is a disgrace garmin would rush this out. Greed! Many are switching to the amazfit t rex 3 which i know nothing about! But reading some reddits!
I had the opportunity to switch to the 8, but after seeing the prices, decided to jump from Garmin. The company is clearly going the way of greed now. Moved to the AW Ultra, and couldn’t be happier. Being with Garmin for over 10yrs, I do miss the buttons, but will get used to without.
I’m enjoying my Venu 3 which I got sub 400£ lol, only bad thing about this watch is that glass on front scratches like crazy. Garmin is nuts for new fenix and new price
good review, thanks! sad to hear the negative feedback, though. it was supposed to be a milestone watch.
Thanks a lot for your honesty!❤
What a great review!!! Thank you for the honesty. I bought my epix pro gen 2 51mm sapphire 3 months ago, there is no way ,no way at all that i would switched for the 8. There's nothing, absolutely nothing on that watch that will make me even consider any switch.
Thanks a lot for not including music and for not overlaying the end and beginning of sentences as in so many other review videos. Was the ‘Enduro 3*’ HRM a real option for you? I am considering the latter as a replacement for my 'Fenix 6' Sapphire. Unfortunately and after checking with Garmin here in Australia, the battry of my 'Fenix 6' is not replacable. So, throwing a A$1,400 HRM into a recycling bin every few years or so?
I was going to try the Enduro 3 but I'm getting feedback that folks are seeing software bugs as well. Overall it's a better value, it drops all the voice stuff which you probably don't need anyway. I like that it just focuses on what Garmin does well, which is rugged activity tracking. Might pick it up still but it's still a lot of $$$$
@@Hikingguy Thank you for your response and yes indeed, the smartwatch functions of the latest Fenix line are most definitely a distraction, at least for me.
great review, many reviewers arent liking the 8. it looks like the 7 pro is a much better option at this point or wait till the 8 pro comes out and hope they've fixed the bugs on the 8 series
Thanks for sharing your thoughts. I watched many videos about it. Finally an honest opinion. I had an Epix2 and having phantom clicks, first, and an endless reboot loop, second, i gave up. Great watches, but not top notch. I have to rely on this, so bugs are a no go. At this price it is supposed to be premium.
I had the same “side press buttons does not work” issues with my epix pro 2, that’s a defect that garmin processes for me under warranty at no cost. I feel that not addressing perfect button action issue they had for years will definitely become unacceptable at a certain price point
Now we are talking. I was waiting a lot for this. Thanks!
Exactly the review I was looking for! Well done. Have been thinking about upgrading my Fenix 5X to a discounted new or lightly used Epix Pro 51. Only reason is my battery on the 5X is cooked. Thoughts?
I'd go with the Epix Pro 51mm or maybe see if you can find a way to replace the battery on the 5x - might be a TH-cam video out there on it somewhere
Great review. Think you always give great in depth, honest real world assessments of these watches.
For me, I had a Vivoactive 4 that was end of life. I was waiting for the Fenix 8 as my replacement but about a month ago found a deal on a Tactix 7 Anoled for under £900 so I bought that instead and couldn’t be happier.
I still think Garmin have a long way to go to improve the user experience if these watches. Don’t get me wrong, I would always chose a Garmin over anything else because as a tool watch they are simply the best at what they do. I love the onboard mapping and navigation and battery life, but the clunky UI and processor speeds still need work if they are to continue as a leader in this field.
Thank you and glad you got that deal on the Tactix 7, a great watch. Maybe we'll get some more competition in the space. Hoping the next Coros has onboard maps and routing.
Whoops. Garmin pushing the limits of the customers. But not in a good, sporty way. Rather a test of their wallet :D
I'm glad I opted for the Epix Pro Gen 2 last year.
Thanks for the honest review!
It's time for look to look at Suunto (Vertical, Race and Race S)
I'm holding off for a few months to see what comes in new firmware updates in the next bit. Hopefully Garmin listens to feedback and adds some more watch faces and smooths things over a bit. I still think it's a compelling upgrade for me from my Forerunner 945. I've never owned a Fenix before and it should be a noticeable upgrade for me with the AMOLED display, touch screen, and way better HR and GPS.
Garmin definitely didn't include enough to make it tempting to upgrade for Fenix 7 users and as you said, that's a problem. They need to do more than a shitty speaker and voice commands.
100% right. Garmin disappoints this time.
Here's a thought I'd Amoled vs MIPs. A battery on the watch has a half life of 500 charges. The AMOLED needs to be charged 3 times as frequent. This means reliability of the MIPS watch is going to be better.
Hi Cris. Thanks for the review from an experienced hiker's perspective. I've been debating if I really need a watch. I'm currently using my phone with Gaia and have a Mini InReach2. On the Garmin Explore app, I'm not sure if I'm missing something but I notice that TopoActive maps do not have trail names. On the Garmin Explore website, street maps have trail names but not TopoActive. Does Fenix have trail names on the watch or do trail names require a paid map pack?
The watch has trail names, you're good there.
I use a fenix 5 😂 it does it for me 🤷🏻♂️ but tbh; i think i‘ll buy the upgraded 8 when it’s out and hopefully fixed. Great review!
Appreciate your honest opinion!!
Thank you for your product advice and input! God bless you.
Garmin is aiming at older garmin users and the samsung and apple ultra users,
The option to take a phonecall, to talk to siri,.. is a major one for a former smartwatch user.
The update for the case is a major one for divers but also whitewater use, waterski and any long term user that pushes the buttons under water for a few years,...
The watch has to be durable and get some upgrades because people expect to use a garmin watch for a decent amount of time. If the next generation comes with major upgrades and they get the feeling they are missing important features forcing them to upgrade in one year they will feel pretty sour,..
For a youtube reviewer small gradual upgrades are hard, for the user and the brand they are pretty fine.
Samsung doesn't count on you changing from the 23 to the 24 and to the 25, they expect you to drop a few modelers except when they can trick you into going into a new format, a folding phone that might replace a tablet for instance...
The samsung ultra comes 2 years after the pro.
The same goes for 🍎,...
There is no apple ultra 3 because a major upgrade that would date the ultra 2 would come way to soon,..
Garmin doesn't count on fenix 7 or epic users to change, these days are far beyond in tech,... it's a watch, if you change it after one or 2 years it's because you didn't like it and you are improbable to buy the same brand,....
If the generational upgrades are to big old users feel tricked and garmin wants you to buy/ rent maps, to use farmin pay,...
YES! There's just no way a youtube reviewer is going to be impressed by the changes every single year, especially when they don't use the major new (and expensive AF) feature: Diving. I was really close to getting a couple of MK3i's for the wife and I, so I'm super stoked about this release: Basically everything I need, and the price difference will save me more thatn the price of our next trip to the Maldives ;-)
At that price point, upon the first crash the watch would be returned.
$5 for a watch face 🤦🏻. Well I like the F8 watch face, found it free on connect store and installed on my Epix. A quick orange band upgrade and I’m rocking a new watch. There wasn’t a compelling reason to upgrade this time. Maybe if LTE….I’ll hang on the Epix a couple more years.
Thank you !! You right on your reviews its spot on.!!
I was about to get it from REI since i have a gift card $500.00
Thank goodness my notification was on and watch your comment.appreciate your time.
Hello from sacramento,california
🎉 I’m so happy the Fenix 8 came out because it dropped the price of the used Tactix 7 standard I bought this week.
@@RickActual great choice. How much did you pay?
Where’d you buy it at ?
First honest review I've seen... there's really no reason to upgrade from 7
Nope, save your money and time dealing with bugs.
@@Hikingguy I use combo Tactix 7 AMOLED plus GPSMAP 66s; for hiking and for biking; track (course) planning in apps on iPhone or laptop - I cannot imagine, what functions could be added to have reason to upgrade; IMHO these products are almost "complete" and there's nothing new to invent
Thanks 🙏🏻 I will stay with F7X SS,no even a solid reason to have F8😂
These are the errors, bugs, and lag I experience. Even after the last update 11.60. Nap bug, weather bug, agenda bug, low brightness in the dark, low volume phone call, low volume speaker, laggy maps, laggy watch faces, Garmin pay does not give a signal when you have paid so you think you have not paid, swipe down looking at the widgets regularly causes the watch to crash, when the earbuds are connected the music comes from the watch and from the earbuds at the same time, Do not disturb mode does not work, no TH-cam music available. The titanium casing also scratches quite quickly.After two weeks I already had a scratch on it that I don't even know where it came from.
This watch is definitely not worth €1200, but rather €500, and even if everything works well, this watch is never worth that much money. You are being deceived in front of you.
Wow, what a dissaster!
I've been using Gaia and liking it
I was just thinking about pulling the trigger on one of these. Thanks for walking me back. My Apple Watch Ultra broke and I’m thinking of going back to Garmin. Maybe save a few bucks and get the 7?
Yea the 7 is what I would do. And if you like your AWU and it works for you, maybe get another.
I really hope the Fenix 8 Pro or 9 brings back the 42/43mm MIP version. If not I might just get a cheap Fenix 7 Pro to replace my Fenix 7.
Sad to see they lost the usability design and went with "pretty." Might be the end of the road for that product line.
This is a good watch to skip. You can tell theyre going into the smartwatch direction. But there are alot of misses here. Also the color scheme of the base/marketed watch is too apple watch like. Boring.
Wow! There’s no sign of even faint praise in that damning review. Informative video as always, Garmin should be ashamed. Thanks