I am a Navy Reservist. I love Apple Watch for my day job. It keeps me notified and on task. When I am on a ship for a few weeks, I prefer the Garmin because I can go weeks without charging, I don’t need to fear knocking into stuff, and that red light would actually work on the bridge at night. Different tools for different situations. Also, I have forgotten to charge flashlights on night trail runs so that flash light on the watch could be a life saver.
@Ralph Reilly the pilot house is dark at night. The redlight function on this watch would mean not having to hold a flashlight up while writing in the deck log. I’m exhausted during underways and charging stuff is another chore to think about.
Light could also come in handy for some military applications where you need to read something in the dark but don’t want to give away your position. Army SF selection only allows red and blue light for map reading in their nighttime navigation exercises.
Nailed it Des! I think the pricing aspect is important as you mentioned. The sapphire/titanium Apple Watch 7 is just as expensive as a high end Fenix… that’s easy to forget with so many focused on how expensive these new Garmins are.
When it comes down to the battery, the AW7 Titanium is not worth the price in any way. Period. I have had my Fenix 5 since launch, its fast, still gets updates, and battery lasts a while still. My Fenix 5 is still going strong. Battery is a champ, and tested often with new beta apps, faces, and widgets. With Garmin, I feel you get your moneys worth over time. Higher priced AW's are just not worth it, while Garmin is.
I’ve had an Apple Watch and a couple of Fenix (currently on Fenix 7). I think they both have their place but personally I prefer the Fenix 7 as it’s more durable and I’m not having to worry about the battery run out because of lots of use in the day.
Another great one Des! Having owned both (and now on a Fenix 7s) for me the biggest take is battery life. Apple has made good improvements over the years but still it’s a big daily factor managing the battery. With a Fenix it’s just something you don’t need to worry about. For me that’s a big plus. (one less thing to worry about) If Apple comes with a “full week” battery Apple Watch with a 20ish hours of GPS life it might be a big shift for a group of people. Performance wise both watches will be perfect for the vast majority. Just my take…
EPIX all the way! better looking watch with a screen that is 100X better which you will use every day. Battery is plenty big enough for 99.9999% of activity you will ever do. In outdoor direct sunlight the epix screen cant be beat
A friend uses a battery pack on her hikes and she said it charges the iPhone 13 and the watch s7 whilst on a break. I like the Fenix 7s, so I’m deciding what might suit me for bushwalking for accuracy and maps etc., and general fitness. The batteries really do need improvement for the Apple watches.
Tht's the way I feel about Apple too. Trying to use it for daily training, I've forgotten to chare enough many times. The Garmin watches just take all the stress of battery management away.
Yes, you don’t even have to use the Apple Watch and it’ll die in its own in 1-2 days. Just got the 7x and 7s (my wrists are tiny 7x was too big but ended up falling in love with big screen so going to keep anyways). Loving how you can see how many days of charge left you have and how the weather etc easily accessible by scrolling down
I’ve been an Apple Watch user for a while, mainly for fitness and health tracking. The Epix / Fenix are totally overkill for my style of training, BUT the Epix is really stunning. I’ll probably give it a try. Thanks for your really helpful videos.
EPIX all the way! better looking watch with a screen that is 100X better which you will use every day. Battery is plenty big enough for 99.9999% of activity you will ever do. In outdoor direct sunlight the epix screen cant be beat
The Felix 7 and the epix gen 2 are targeting a totally different audience than the Apple Watch. The Apple Watch wants to appeal to every iPhone user and its a great smartwatch. But if you are an endurance athlete with even a little interest in digging into your body’s physiology, you’ll have no choice but to got with the Fenix 7 or the Epix. There’s just no comparison. There’s a reason why garmin suunto polar and now Coros rule the endurance sports.
Great comparison! I think from a size/weight perspective, the Garmin 7S is comparable to series 7 size and weight wise and I think (owning both) that the 7S is finally at least equaling the accuracy of the S7 heart rate sensor which was the only thing keeping me back from going full on Garmin in the past. The ability to now customize Fenix from your phone among many other new features, etc I think Garmin just hit it out of the park with the Fenix 7 series it’s seriously blowing me away how improved it is from the 6.
I've been using Fenix watches for 6 years. My Fenix 3 lasted me for 5 years without a single glitch. At the end I was hoping it would break so I have an excuse to upgrade. But at the end it depends on the profile of the user. If an outdoorsy person, definitely for the Fenix.
I've a Vivoactive 4 which is a great watch for my training type though like you I wish it would break so to have an excuse to get a Fenix lol. Though I'd probably go for a 6 sapphire.
Ive had both a Garmin watch and an Apple Watch. I ended up using the Apple Watch more due to the tight integration with the messaging and auto reply feature, the running features weren’t as robust as Garmin but for daily runs up to about 15 miles the watch battery keeps up. Any more distance and I’d consider something with a better battery. The main drawback to the Apple Watch for running has been interval workouts, that’s where any other Watch outperforms due to the more tactile button experience. However, I’ve continued to keep the Apple Watch because of my experience with the Apple Fitness + service, being able to vary my workouts and follow along has been the new killer feature which has prevented me from going back to my old Garmin or getting a new Garmin.
All of those features are available on Garmin. And Garmin has much better gps accuracy. I ran a half marathon with a friend, he has an apple watch and I have a Garmin 245 (much cheaper watch). He ended up logging more than 14.5 miles for a 13.1 run, and I got 13.3. A 10% difference is very significant when you run more than 10 miles.
I’ve been an avid Apple Watch used since the very first watch. Prior to that I used Garmin. I have used the Epix for close to 2 weeks now and can confidently say the EPIX is what I’d of hoped the Apple Watch would of become over all these years. The battery life combined with great OLED screen is very hard to beat. Honestly with the right settings on you can blow past the 6-7 days of battery life estimated by Garmin.
That’s good and all, but who really needs it? The series 7 takes 30 mins to charge and lasts around 24 hours with sleep tracking (my usage case). For all the functions that you get over the Garmins, I’d take that inconvenience any day.
@@fotone 30 minutes to recharge is a very optimistic estimate. More like an hour or more from 25% charge or less. All depends on whether you like to charge your watch daily or not. Also depends on whether you like all your running and recovery stats on the watch (Garmin) or have to use apps (AW).
You do such a great job presenting the information, appreciate the no BS format. Definitely just going to watch your videos on watch reviews from now on.
Great Video, Des! Thank you. Lots of good points but you nailed (I think) when you talk about extending the Apple Watch functionality. Having to add extra apps can be exciting and enjoyable but the fact that Garmin have almost everything on the unit to begin with is such an underrated feature. Thanks for calling it out. (and, by the way I have both a Garmin Fenix 6 Pro and an Apple Watch 6 cellular so I have experienced both sides of the fence). I was going to try and do 30 days with the Apple Watch but after 3 days ... back to the Garmin! 😉
Really very good comprehensive review. Great job. I've owned several Apple watches in the past and currently own a Fenix 6. One thing I seldom hear mentioned is the Golf feature cooked into the Garmin watches. My Fenix 6 has over 40,000 golf courses pre-loaded onto the watch. It shows the hole layout, shot distance to greens and hazards, moves automatically hole to hole and allows you to keep score. Basically all the functions of a stand alone golf watch which would cost $200 plus. The Apple watch does not have those features baked in. True you can get 3rd party apps that act like golf watches but that's a separate app you need to install and also need to have your phone with you to work properly. So for me that's a big plus for Garmin over Apple. I'm sure other golfers would agree.
This is my dilemma. Apple Watch I can use 18 birdies which I love but the Garmin watches are designed specifically for my golf and tracking but also have to rely on garmin app for tracking
I own an Apple Watch series 4 but the one thing that bothers me most is the fact that I need to charge it every single day. I am definitely in the market for a Fenix 7X
I just sold my AW7 for Epix, tired of charging it twice a day, and most features I want have to search for third-party apps to get the best result like sleep tracking, outdoor hiking, cycling, on the other hand, Epix got a fantastic OLED screen and all in one solution, it's perfect, just expensive lol
This is what is making me hesistate about the AW, i have a Garmin 6X with like 3 weeks of batterylife. For now the increased funktionality on the aw is more tempting than extra training features but come on.. atleast 2-3 days of batterylife could be doable.
I currently have the Apple watch 7 also the Garmin watch 3. In my opinion the Garmin app is better when measuring my sleep as mentioned. The battery is obviously far better on the Garmin. The apple Watch is neater than my huge Garmin watch and of course fits in nicely with the Apple eco system. I'm tempted to get a used Garmin 6 and wear both. I've measured both for accuracy and agree they are both pretty much the same across all parameters. I only use the watches for sleep, cycling, hiking and health (Vo2 Max) so most of the Garmin functionality would be unused by me. Excellent review and I've just subscribed.
I had many many Garmin Fenix watches..... but the platform sucks! Did an update, and crashed my watch Fenix watch.. Had enough last year and my apple watch is doing just fine!
I have owned all the Apple Watches since the first version, then I tried a Fenix 6X back then, and men, oh men, what an incredible product: precision, battery life, solidity, ... even the smartwatch features are more than enough (at least for me), and payments capabilities. We have to admit the Apple Watch is stuffed with useless gadgets. Personnaly, I will never switch back to the Apple Watch. I don't even understand why I was so blind back then... >_>
Great video, the problem with the apple watches is they don't pair up with bike computers like the wahoo element or the garmin series, wish I wold of known that before I purchased my apple 7 last year....
I had a Fenix 6 Titanium. I liked it a lot, especially the battery life. Problem was the uncomfortable fit. It just wasn’t as comfortable to wear all the time and it was just a little big as a daily wear watch. I tried the smaller model too, it was indeed smaller on my wrist but it was even less comfortable. That and the lack of cellular will keep me from getting another Garmin for now. Great video by the way! You have the best watch reviews.
"I tried the smaller model too, it was indeed smaller on my wrist but it was even less comfortable." ... how would the smaller watch be even less comfortable? One would think quite the opposite given the smaller size and weight. Please do let mek now as im interested in the smaller size fenix
Great review. My apple watch 6 died within 18 months because of salt water damage during swimming. It’s a fancy watch but damage occurs quick and loses its water resistance very fast. ( design of a glass on top of the watch) Not durable enough for me.
I am an apple watch user and eventhough the Fenix/Epix are as mentioned below an overkill for me and for the kind of training I am doing still I want to wear something different occasionally and I will give Fenix a try since I already have a really good screen in my apple watch but the crazy battery life of fenix gives more freedom especially in terms of carrying chargers and cables during short vacations weekends etc...
This is what made me switch! I didn't want to have to take a charger specifically for my watch on work trips and vacation. It also just bugged the hell out of me that if I wanted to use the GPS feature for a weekend backpacking trip, I would get to use the watch on the way out, and then it would die. Fenix / Epix are more expensive, but totally worth it for the peace of mind and convenience.
I love so much about the Fenix 7 but really enjoy being able to take only my apple watch on runs. The LTE is great for always being available or if in the need of an emergency. I get back and use siri to unlock my house via smartlock so I don't even need to bring a key. This is the functionality holding me back from switching.
Same. I just want emergency LTE that turns on in the event of an emergency. Apart from that it’s off. Not too worried about getting calls, though the AW is nice for that (I turn off the notifications though 😂). I like the option of calling out, not people calling in
@@aparagarwal1234 well I did say SOME countries in Europe. Here in Croatia, none of the providers offer this as far as I know. What I do know, you cannot go into the apple store and buy the cellular version of the apple watch. I asked why, and they said it is not available due to lack of some permits and whatnot.
The series 7 actually does support 3rd party watch faces that are fully customizable with apps like Clockology and WatchOS 9 will bring a Triathlon mode for the workout app.
When you see how bad are fenix and epix sleep, Heart rate mesure... i dont know anymore if it worth the price even if it give you a massive battery life. What the point of not having to recharge a smartwatch whitch isnt smart at all ?
Thanks for this review. I have the apple watch 7, but I am considering buying the Fenix 7. I do quite a lot of running and swimming. Do you think I can use both and benefit from that?
The Fenix will provide substantially more training and feedback information in regards to sports but your Apple Watch is a great smartphone companion. Certainly benefits to both.
Is 16GB enough? I don't mind downloading specific maps for the location I'm visiting. Also, does the gorilla glass scratch easy? Getting a great deal on 7 but not sure if it will be a worse deal long term.
I used the Apple Watch for a while. It’s a great smartwatch. The best. But once I got serious about running I switched to garmin. I need physical buttons for intervals. And the Apple Watch flattered my pace by over reading distance. It was off by quite a long way over a marathon.
This was a cool video but I think it was really lacking in terms of in depth comparisons with HR charts or GPS maps which you did do in the last AW vs Fenix video
Iam switching to a garmin epix 2 from apple. My decision came down to battery life and the watch geared more to sports fitness. I used to wear the first epix and I remember enjoying the statistics.
I have a forerunner 645 and would really like an epix. Mainly as it’s a little different with the amoled screen. My big worry is that I have had my 645 replaced 4 times in 4 years. It’s a lot to spend on a gadget that will eventually break and become an ornament.
@@user-ny7hx6sp5i the first one, two of the buttons stopped working. The 2nd ones altimeter broke and the third ones hr sensor was inaccurate. The one I have now works a treat. Sorry it was 3, not 4. Oddly I went for a venu 2 in the end. Love it.
I’m buying my first smart watch soon and I enjoy bushwalking here in Tasmania. The Apple Watch ⌚️ seems good overall for my needs although I’m concerned with battery life on a hike. The other question is accuracy on a hike. Would the Garmin Fenix 7s or Epix be better for this purpose? It’d be good to have maps of the trail I’m on and accurate GPS. Is cellular necessary too, for all the Apple watches features to work? Finding it difficult to know which watch will suit my needs. General fitness, walking and hiking. Thanks. 😊
@@DesFit Ah, my bad. I've always thought that you introduced yourself as "It's Desmond Desfit", but listening to your intros now I can hear that I caught that wrong! I'm sorry for the miss.
The navigation features are still much lore robust on Garmin devices as well as the training and performance feedback. Apple has some good stuff going for them but there’s still a large gap between the smartwatch and the sports watch.
I got the Apple Series 7 just a few months ago. I didn't get it because I wanted a watch to tell me when to go to the toilet or if I am running or how my ECG would be. I know many people love these features, but didn't do anything for me. Thank goodness, wrestling so many years, I never needed a gadget to tell me what to do. HOWEVER, what got me with this watch is we can FINALLY be like in the 80's and not have to CARRY any phone, especially in the summer. Just your shorts and your watch. Best regards, nice video. p.s. As an engineer, and knowing an OLED screen is so much better at lower consumption and therefore, with careful engineering choices you can have it always on, I could not "unseen" that apple had done it (always on). It is a pity they haven't also included a multi-tandem high performance solar cell with the watch.
I use Apple watch S6 cellular, often standalone, on a daily basis and it is ok. But just an active day at a beach (standalone), walking to and from the beach a couple of times, swimming 4 times for 20 minutes, the battery is empty early evening. So considering changing.
I'm going back and forth between Apple Series 7 and Garmin Fenix 7X, it's hard to decide as an iPhone user. On the one hand, I'd want to utilize the platform but on the other hand, I feel like the Garmin does most of the stuff I want better than the Series 7. Ultimately, I feel like the battery life will be the final deciding factor and for that, Apple has really dropped the ball IMO. Had they provided even 30 hours or so, I'd probably change my mind but 18h is pathetic in comparison to what you get with Garmin.
The 4th gen Elevate HR sensor on the Fenix 7 will provide more accurate results than the 3rd gen on the Fenix 6. Even so, for CrossFit, pretty much all wrist HR sensors have a challenge with that type of activity due to all the varying arm movement and wrist flexion. I'd recommend a chest HR strap for the best accuracy for CrossFit. The touchscreen is a really nice upgrade in my opinion though on the 7 from a usability perspective. Thanks!
The only selling point for me on Fenix is the battery life, if Apple watches had a bit more juice in them than a few hours, I would definitely had picked an Apple watch over Fenix.
Then you shouldn't have bought a Fenix to begin with as you're not the target market. Fenix is not a smart watch like AW. It's an outdoor focused premium sports watch designed as a tool to push you faster and further. The Fenix is leagues ahead when it comes to anything related to performance and its not even close. They aren't even in the same market comparatively. I think people are struggling with understanding who the Fenix is actually aimed it tbh. You have couch potatoes and weekend warriors buying it and feeling disappointed they can't make calls from it.
@@DesFit interesting, it never occurred to me that the watch could be worn that way. Might try it out for fun. Might prevent my wrist from pressing buttons while I’m at work
Very good point and that reminds me. Forgot to mention that I also tend to press the Digital Crown button on sleeves while taking jackets on and off. 👍
Considering the design and cellular option on the apple watch, i think I’ll stick with an Apple Watch. Leaving my phone at home and being able to make, receive calls, reply texts, get notifications, listen to music with my AirPods all without my phone is just priceless.
@@mdc123-v2v my battery lasts me all day, if I don’t use it to listen to music it can last me almost 2 days. Besides, throwing it on the charger for 15-20 minutes gives a significant amount of battery life
Hello Everyone! Im currently looking to swap from my old moto 360 2nd gen to a new android exclusive watch. I get that the pricetag is massive, but im genuinely curious to hear if people think its worth upgrading if you have a significantly older watch. This poor old moto only holds charge for about 30 minutes these days. Wish I could just swap the battery but I cant source it. Much love from Canada, great review!
I have a Fenix 7 and an Apple Watch 7. Can I wear both? I am a triathlete and have done an Olympic distance wearing an Apple Watch. With the right downloads (ismoothrun and strong), you can duplicate many Fenix features. Alas, I will be getting rid of the Apple Watch as the Fenix 7 just does what I need better. That's sports based needs. How often do I need to reply to texts and take phone calls during exercise; almost never. My iPhone is with me at other times. Both watch brands are great products. You can get away with an Apple Watch for athletics, but, you can't do business on a Garmin. Excellent presentation that sums up perfectly that both are excellent products that suit differing needs.
Great review as always. I had an Apple Watch 5 and returned it for a Forerunner 245, due to constantly having to charge it for long periods of time... re the Garmin I've liked it so far - but the sleep is lacking, it doesn't have the sleep score that you mentioned that the newer Garmin watches have, and has pretty poorly detected when I'm sleeping/awake (not the biggest issue, I've overall been happy). But I did miss the smartwatch features of the Apple (haptic maps navigation was a plus), and the quick charge you mentioned might bring me back - it seems that a charge during a daily shower might just be enough...
The great thing about the Apple Watch is that they allow you to wear it whichever way you prefer, which this is the way I like it. Even though it’s “wrong”.
@@paolomanzo2007 All i ever wanted is a fenix w a touchscreen lol only after 5 years we got one. I’ll take what I can get haha I’m sick and tired of charging my Apple Watch every day🤦🏻♂️
I had fenix 6x saphire and I like it very much except for it is not possible to connect its heart rate even with external heart rate to any treadmill machine and I do not know why!!!!!?
Am a 74 year old roadie 50 to 100 miles per week totally healthy except recent pulmonary embolism from spending too much desk time . Of the Garmin Epix and Felix 7 which watch allows me to contact my Bride of 50 years or 911 should I need help when out cycling that will alert recipient of my exact location and or ability to talk to them as long I have my android with me? I have been living the Epix but after your video it seems the Felix 7 with the 51MM dile might be a better pick? Thank you for your attention to this! Jack
Depends, do you want more smartwatch type integration like the ability to reply to texts and calls or would you prefer more sports and fitness functionality including training feedback?
I've been using the Apple Watch since 2017, I've owned the S2 and now S5... And I was absolutely sure I would never use a different computer other than Apple (after struggling with a horrible Tom Tom that broke after 3 months of use -no warranty-; and 15 years ago with a Toshiba running Windows... I lost my thesis dissertation, on the day of my MSc dissertation because it was running an Update you know the blue screen.... fortunately I got a copy on a flash drive... but I swore never to use a PC ever again...and I guess It applies to any other type of computer...including smartwatches)... but know the Garmin Fenix 7 or the Garmin Epix 2 are very tempting... If it wasn't for the App WorkOutDoors for Apple Watch I would be getting an Epix... the battery seems awesome and the looks and the construction... maybe I'll give it a try... unlike for any other computer (I won't switch from iPhone, iPad or Mac)... this is tempting.
Loved your last comment that there is no “best” watch out there…I’m leaning toward Apple Watch is best for me despite the battery life and apps struggle. Thanks for the thorough comparison!!
When the time comes and the money allows it, I will get the garmin 7 solar saphire. My main uses of deep hiking , camping and climping with good gps and altitude tracking and an enormous batterylife makes the garmin a no brainer for me.
Hi. Congrats for the video. I have three doubts regarding the Fenix 7: 1) Regarding visibility through the screen, how does it affect whether the screen is standard, solar or solar sapphire? Are there differences in terms of visibility, and if so, which one is the most easily readable? 2) Also regarding the screens, is the standard Gorilla Glass DX screen really much easier to scratch compared to the sapphire? In your opinion, does the difference in hardness of the screen justify the change to the sapphire model? and 3) Regarding solar charging, the fact that the battery is being recharged much more frequently without necessarily being low on charge, can this affect the useful life of the battery compared to one without solar charging? Thanks a lot.
No noticeable difference with clarity. I’ve scratched non sapphire lenses before but those were on somewhat severe MTB crashes. I haven’t seen any additional decline in battery life on a Fenix 6 Pro Solar vs a 6 sapphire. Hope that helps. Thanks!
Good comparison des! I’ve been using garmin for 3 years now, moved from apple watch which i think more of smartwatch rather than sport watch. I was a 10km runner but now mostly i’m doing jumprope as my daily cardio after weight training. I really don’t understand why garmin never put native jump rope activity on their watch… right now i’m using paid app (pylometric) as my jumprope apps on my garmin which is lack of few stats such as VO2 max and not really accurate counting my activityas its not native garmin apps. Hope garmin give more love since jumprope is getting more and more popular lately…
Thanks! VO2 max measurements are generally only available for running and cycling since there are specific algorithms needed to estimate this properly and there's been plenty of research done with those activities. It would be interesting to see VO2 max values be expanded beyond those though with more research.
Apple Watch when you are using work out app it records the heart continuously but after sometime it stops for some time and when you stop and stand then it records. But with Garmin I did not see anything like that.
It all comes down to battery life, i have a fenix6xpro solar lasts for weeks, when my son goes camping or fitness hiking he ditches his apple watch and takes my 6xpro Mydaughter camps up in the sierras alot loves the fenix I bought her plus the garmins always show location of wearer when their in the wild. Im definitley moving up to the Fenix 7 sapphire!
Main problems with the Apple Watch are weak battery life, exclusive compatibility with iPhones, and lack of sapphire glass. To Fenix series are the winner in all aspects
The Apple Watch also has a flashlight granted probably not as bright but it has multiple settings read for night, so it doesn’t affect your eyes and flashing when you wanna go out running at night
I should have been more specific in regards to the dedicated LED on the 7X which does not obstruct the display like the Apple Watch and also does not require you to turn your wrist for a more natural orientation of your hand.
It would be quite the upgrade in terms of sports features and battery life. The difference in smartphone integration/smartwatch features would be similar to what I outlined in this video though.
@@DesFit yeah it would as do need for a new watch as my series 3 is getting slow and the gps accuracy was good for one update but then the next it was mehh but it was better then watch os 6 which was the worst watch os I think I have every experience but yeah the fenix 6 pro is much better like better durability, better battery life more work outs to choose from and I can do shallow diving/ snorkeling as yes ik it isn’t a fully dive device but ik it will be good like at 25 feet or 30 feet of ocean pressurization which I normally dive at as the apple watch won’t survive it as I think it will break easily, also the garmin app is hell of alot better then the fitness app. I do like your comparison video.
I think you should make a video or couple of videos detailing which apps or what sort of work an Apple Watch user would need to go through to make up the sort of functionality that the F7/Epix brings that the Apple Watch lacks in terms of sports watch. I'm not saying it is the right choice but Apple moves a lot of product, and also it should be noted that with the new Epix/F7, unless you want the slate steel silver bezel you have to spend an extra $100 which puts every option at more than double the price of the base series 7. So I suspect a lot of people are going to "try" to make it work since there is so much savings to be had. I currently own a Fenix 6 Pro. I really enjoy it but now occasionally use a hand me down Apple Watch from one of my adult children while at work since it can unlock my phone while wearing a mask. The biggest features that would have helped me decide to upgrade to a new Garmin involve being able to take calls or use voice assistant. Garmin has the tech but didn't roll it into the Epix/F7.
For running a stryd footpod is wonderful, I use my element Roam and powermeter in cycling and for in the gym I have Strong (app). So I do everything with and out of my watch or iphone. When cycling basically the element does the work but all will be synced to apple health & workouts. For hiking and maps I have komoot that also uploads to wahoo easily...
I am a Navy Reservist. I love Apple Watch for my day job. It keeps me notified and on task. When I am on a ship for a few weeks, I prefer the Garmin because I can go weeks without charging, I don’t need to fear knocking into stuff, and that red light would actually work on the bridge at night. Different tools for different situations. Also, I have forgotten to charge flashlights on night trail runs so that flash light on the watch could be a life saver.
Thanks for providing your experience with both and thanks for all you do! 👍
@Ralph Reilly the pilot house is dark at night. The redlight function on this watch would mean not having to hold a flashlight up while writing in the deck log. I’m exhausted during underways and charging stuff is another chore to think about.
Thanks for your service. I too have different use cases and would consider keeping my Apple Watch if I got the Epix.
Light could also come in handy for some military applications where you need to read something in the dark but don’t want to give away your position. Army SF selection only allows red and blue light for map reading in their nighttime navigation exercises.
Great tip ! Thanks
Nailed it Des! I think the pricing aspect is important as you mentioned. The sapphire/titanium Apple Watch 7 is just as expensive as a high end Fenix… that’s easy to forget with so many focused on how expensive these new Garmins are.
It's super interesting when you compare the higher-end models, for sure. Thanks Dave!
When it comes down to the battery, the AW7 Titanium is not worth the price in any way. Period. I have had my Fenix 5 since launch, its fast, still gets updates, and battery lasts a while still. My Fenix 5 is still going strong. Battery is a champ, and tested often with new beta apps, faces, and widgets. With Garmin, I feel you get your moneys worth over time. Higher priced AW's are just not worth it, while Garmin is.
I’ve had an Apple Watch and a couple of Fenix (currently on Fenix 7). I think they both have their place but personally I prefer the Fenix 7 as it’s more durable and I’m not having to worry about the battery run out because of lots of use in the day.
Same! im going with Fenix 7 Sapphire all the way!
@@MrKakocorp same!
Another great one Des! Having owned both (and now on a Fenix 7s) for me the biggest take is battery life. Apple has made good improvements over the years but still it’s a big daily factor managing the battery. With a Fenix it’s just something you don’t need to worry about. For me that’s a big plus. (one less thing to worry about) If Apple comes with a “full week” battery Apple Watch with a 20ish hours of GPS life it might be a big shift for a group of people. Performance wise both watches will be perfect for the vast majority. Just my take…
EPIX all the way! better looking watch with a screen that is 100X better which you will use every day. Battery is plenty big enough for 99.9999% of activity you will ever do. In outdoor direct sunlight the epix screen cant be beat
A friend uses a battery pack on her hikes and she said it charges the iPhone 13 and the watch s7 whilst on a break. I like the Fenix 7s, so I’m deciding what might suit me for bushwalking for accuracy and maps etc., and general fitness. The batteries really do need improvement for the Apple watches.
Tht's the way I feel about Apple too. Trying to use it for daily training, I've forgotten to chare enough many times. The Garmin watches just take all the stress of battery management away.
Yes, you don’t even have to use the Apple Watch and it’ll die in its own in 1-2 days. Just got the 7x and 7s (my wrists are tiny 7x was too big but ended up falling in love with big screen so going to keep anyways). Loving how you can see how many days of charge left you have and how the weather etc easily accessible by scrolling down
I’ve been an Apple Watch user for a while, mainly for fitness and health tracking. The Epix / Fenix are totally overkill for my style of training, BUT the Epix is really stunning. I’ll probably give it a try. Thanks for your really helpful videos.
Sure thing! Thanks!
The Venu 2 Plus might be even better for you if you consider the Epix to be an overkill.
EPIX all the way! better looking watch with a screen that is 100X better which you will use every day. Battery is plenty big enough for 99.9999% of activity you will ever do. In outdoor direct sunlight the epix screen cant be beat
The Felix 7 and the epix gen 2 are targeting a totally different audience than the Apple Watch. The Apple Watch wants to appeal to every iPhone user and its a great smartwatch. But if you are an endurance athlete with even a little interest in digging into your body’s physiology, you’ll have no choice but to got with the Fenix 7 or the Epix. There’s just no comparison. There’s a reason why garmin suunto polar and now Coros rule the endurance sports.
Great comparison! I think from a size/weight perspective, the Garmin 7S is comparable to series 7 size and weight wise and I think (owning both) that the 7S is finally at least equaling the accuracy of the S7 heart rate sensor which was the only thing keeping me back from going full on Garmin in the past. The ability to now customize Fenix from your phone among many other new features, etc I think Garmin just hit it out of the park with the Fenix 7 series it’s seriously blowing me away how improved it is from the 6.
Great point, JB. Size certainly makes a difference with the HR accuracy. Thanks!
So the the heart rate is now ok? And you not getting 47 rate when you run? I have the fx5 and I’m extremely disappointed
@@DesFit I need the hr to be on spot
I've been using Fenix watches for 6 years. My Fenix 3 lasted me for 5 years without a single glitch. At the end I was hoping it would break so I have an excuse to upgrade.
But at the end it depends on the profile of the user. If an outdoorsy person, definitely for the Fenix.
That’s great that your last watch lasted that long 👍 Enjoy your new watch!
I've a Vivoactive 4 which is a great watch for my training type though like you I wish it would break so to have an excuse to get a Fenix lol. Though I'd probably go for a 6 sapphire.
Ive had both a Garmin watch and an Apple Watch. I ended up using the Apple Watch more due to the tight integration with the messaging and auto reply feature, the running features weren’t as robust as Garmin but for daily runs up to about 15 miles the watch battery keeps up. Any more distance and I’d consider something with a better battery. The main drawback to the Apple Watch for running has been interval workouts, that’s where any other Watch outperforms due to the more tactile button experience. However, I’ve continued to keep the Apple Watch because of my experience with the Apple Fitness + service, being able to vary my workouts and follow along has been the new killer feature which has prevented me from going back to my old Garmin or getting a new Garmin.
All of those features are available on Garmin.
And Garmin has much better gps accuracy. I ran a half marathon with a friend, he has an apple watch and I have a Garmin 245 (much cheaper watch). He ended up logging more than 14.5 miles for a 13.1 run, and I got 13.3. A 10% difference is very significant when you run more than 10 miles.
Garmin has a garmin coach.. its same with apple fitness
@@muhaiminaizatjr8004 not even close lol.
I’ve been an avid Apple Watch used since the very first watch. Prior to that I used Garmin. I have used the Epix for close to 2 weeks now and can confidently say the EPIX is what I’d of hoped the Apple Watch would of become over all these years. The battery life combined with great OLED screen is very hard to beat. Honestly with the right settings on you can blow past the 6-7 days of battery life estimated by Garmin.
Thanks for sharing your thoughts and experience, Ron 👍
Quick question how to do notifications work on iPhone
That’s good and all, but who really needs it? The series 7 takes 30 mins to charge and lasts around 24 hours with sleep tracking (my usage case). For all the functions that you get over the Garmins, I’d take that inconvenience any day.
@@fotone 30 minutes to recharge is a very optimistic estimate. More like an hour or more from 25% charge or less. All depends on whether you like to charge your watch daily or not. Also depends on whether you like all your running and recovery stats on the watch (Garmin) or have to use apps (AW).
Can confirm that 30 minutes can get the job done. An hour at most if you’re
You do such a great job presenting the information, appreciate the no BS format. Definitely just going to watch your videos on watch reviews from now on.
Thanks so much, Paul!
Great Video, Des! Thank you. Lots of good points but you nailed (I think) when you talk about extending the Apple Watch functionality. Having to add extra apps can be exciting and enjoyable but the fact that Garmin have almost everything on the unit to begin with is such an underrated feature. Thanks for calling it out. (and, by the way I have both a Garmin Fenix 6 Pro and an Apple Watch 6 cellular so I have experienced both sides of the fence). I was going to try and do 30 days with the Apple Watch but after 3 days ... back to the Garmin! 😉
Really very good comprehensive review. Great job. I've owned several Apple watches in the past and currently own a Fenix 6. One thing I seldom hear mentioned is the Golf feature cooked into the Garmin watches. My Fenix 6 has over 40,000 golf courses pre-loaded onto the watch. It shows the hole layout, shot distance to greens and hazards, moves automatically hole to hole and allows you to keep score. Basically all the functions of a stand alone golf watch which would cost $200 plus. The Apple watch does not have those features baked in. True you can get 3rd party apps that act like golf watches but that's a separate app you need to install and also need to have your phone with you to work properly. So for me that's a big plus for Garmin over Apple. I'm sure other golfers would agree.
This is a big one for me too!
This is my dilemma. Apple Watch I can use 18 birdies which I love but the Garmin watches are designed specifically for my golf and tracking but also have to rely on garmin app for tracking
I own an Apple Watch series 4 but the one thing that bothers me most is the fact that I need to charge it every single day. I am definitely in the market for a Fenix 7X
In all these Watch which is the most accurate? Planning to buy one
Heart rate - Apple Watch. GPS - Garmin or COROS.
I just sold my AW7 for Epix, tired of charging it twice a day, and most features I want have to search for third-party apps to get the best result like sleep tracking, outdoor hiking, cycling, on the other hand, Epix got a fantastic OLED screen and all in one solution, it's perfect, just expensive lol
Thanks for sharing your experience 👍
This is what is making me hesistate about the AW, i have a Garmin 6X with like 3 weeks of batterylife. For now the increased funktionality on the aw is more tempting than extra training features but come on.. atleast 2-3 days of batterylife could be doable.
I also sold my aw s7 because the battery always down was running
I currently have the Apple watch 7 also the Garmin watch 3. In my opinion the Garmin app is better when measuring my sleep as mentioned. The battery is obviously far better on the Garmin. The apple Watch is neater than my huge Garmin watch and of course fits in nicely with the Apple eco system. I'm tempted to get a used Garmin 6 and wear both. I've measured both for accuracy and agree they are both pretty much the same across all parameters. I only use the watches for sleep, cycling, hiking and health (Vo2 Max) so most of the Garmin functionality would be unused by me. Excellent review and I've just subscribed.
Dude… this was so informative and well-said. How did you remember it all!? 💚 Definitely feeling like an informed consumer.
Thanks! Glad the information helped.
I had many many Garmin Fenix watches..... but the platform sucks! Did an update, and crashed my watch Fenix watch.. Had enough last year and my apple watch is doing just fine!
I have owned all the Apple Watches since the first version, then I tried a Fenix 6X back then, and men, oh men, what an incredible product: precision, battery life, solidity, ... even the smartwatch features are more than enough (at least for me), and payments capabilities. We have to admit the Apple Watch is stuffed with useless gadgets. Personnaly, I will never switch back to the Apple Watch. I don't even understand why I was so blind back then... >_>
😅😆😅😅😅😅😅😅
🤣🤣🤣
Great video, the problem with the apple watches is they don't pair up with bike computers like the wahoo element or the garmin series, wish I wold of known that before I purchased my apple 7 last year....
I had a Fenix 6 Titanium. I liked it a lot, especially the battery life. Problem was the uncomfortable fit. It just wasn’t as comfortable to wear all the time and it was just a little big as a daily wear watch. I tried the smaller model too, it was indeed smaller on my wrist but it was even less comfortable. That and the lack of cellular will keep me from getting another Garmin for now. Great video by the way! You have the best watch reviews.
"I tried the smaller model too, it was indeed smaller on my wrist but it was even less comfortable." ... how would the smaller watch be even less comfortable? One would think quite the opposite given the smaller size and weight. Please do let mek now as im interested in the smaller size fenix
Great review. My apple watch 6 died within 18 months because of salt water damage during swimming. It’s a fancy watch but damage occurs quick and loses its water resistance very fast. ( design of a glass on top of the watch)
Not durable enough for me.
I already have an Epix and don't have an iPhone. Not sure why I watched the whole video, but I'm here for it!
I appreciate it! Enjoy your Epix!
Thanks for this informative video. Planning to buy garmin
Thanks. First time visitor. This was really helpful. Well presented.
Glad it helped! Thanks!
I am an apple watch user and eventhough the Fenix/Epix are as mentioned below an overkill for me and for the kind of training I am doing still I want to wear something different occasionally and I will give Fenix a try since I already have a really good screen in my apple watch but the crazy battery life of fenix gives more freedom especially in terms of carrying chargers and cables during short vacations weekends etc...
This is what made me switch! I didn't want to have to take a charger specifically for my watch on work trips and vacation. It also just bugged the hell out of me that if I wanted to use the GPS feature for a weekend backpacking trip, I would get to use the watch on the way out, and then it would die. Fenix / Epix are more expensive, but totally worth it for the peace of mind and convenience.
I love so much about the Fenix 7 but really enjoy being able to take only my apple watch on runs. The LTE is great for always being available or if in the need of an emergency. I get back and use siri to unlock my house via smartlock so I don't even need to bring a key. This is the functionality holding me back from switching.
Same. I just want emergency LTE that turns on in the event of an emergency. Apart from that it’s off. Not too worried about getting calls, though the AW is nice for that (I turn off the notifications though 😂). I like the option of calling out, not people calling in
In some countries in Europe (for example), you cannot get a cellular apple watch. So this advantage doesn't exist here. :( Bummer!
@@theoriginalLP that’s incorrect. In Belgium you get cellular version though only one service provider(Telenet)has this option
@@aparagarwal1234 well I did say SOME countries in Europe. Here in Croatia, none of the providers offer this as far as I know. What I do know, you cannot go into the apple store and buy the cellular version of the apple watch. I asked why, and they said it is not available due to lack of some permits and whatnot.
Great video! Which are you wearing? Currently have the epix 2 but am eyeballing the 7x… like the flashlight feature….
The series 7 actually does support 3rd party watch faces that are fully customizable with apps like Clockology and WatchOS 9 will bring a Triathlon mode for the workout app.
When you see how bad are fenix and epix sleep, Heart rate mesure... i dont know anymore if it worth the price even if it give you a massive battery life. What the point of not having to recharge a smartwatch whitch isnt smart at all ?
If i am low on power do I charge the phone or the watch?
Thanks for this review. I have the apple watch 7, but I am considering buying the Fenix 7. I do quite a lot of running and swimming. Do you think I can use both and benefit from that?
The Fenix will provide substantially more training and feedback information in regards to sports but your Apple Watch is a great smartphone companion. Certainly benefits to both.
Is 16GB enough? I don't mind downloading specific maps for the location I'm visiting. Also, does the gorilla glass scratch easy? Getting a great deal on 7 but not sure if it will be a worse deal long term.
Hi Des, Venu 2 or Apple Watch 7 which one is good in performance for Strength Training especially Pushups, weight lifting?
I used the Apple Watch for a while. It’s a great smartwatch. The best. But once I got serious about running I switched to garmin. I need physical buttons for intervals. And the Apple Watch flattered my pace by over reading distance. It was off by quite a long way over a marathon.
good video. I currently have vivoactive 3 (and am looking to upgrade to fenix 7 solar). i hope they can track indoor skiing too.
It won’t track distance properly since it’s indoors but it should track the number of runs.
This was a cool video but I think it was really lacking in terms of in depth comparisons with HR charts or GPS maps which you did do in the last AW vs Fenix video
May I ask which one in your opinion is better for swimming ?
All of these actually do a pretty good job for swimming, both for pool swimming and open water.
Iam switching to a garmin epix 2 from apple. My decision came down to battery life and the watch geared more to sports fitness. I used to wear the first epix and I remember enjoying the statistics.
I have a forerunner 645 and would really like an epix. Mainly as it’s a little different with the amoled screen. My big worry is that I have had my 645 replaced 4 times in 4 years. It’s a lot to spend on a gadget that will eventually break and become an ornament.
Why exactly did you have to get 4 replacements?
I had no issues with my Forerunner 945 which i bought 2 years ago.
@@user-ny7hx6sp5i the first one, two of the buttons stopped working. The 2nd ones altimeter broke and the third ones hr sensor was inaccurate. The one I have now works a treat. Sorry it was 3, not 4. Oddly I went for a venu 2 in the end. Love it.
What about paying with the watch? This is one of the most used features for me.
I’m buying my first smart watch soon and I enjoy bushwalking here in Tasmania. The Apple Watch ⌚️ seems good overall for my needs although I’m concerned with battery life on a hike. The other question is accuracy on a hike. Would the Garmin Fenix 7s or Epix be better for this purpose? It’d be good to have maps of the trail I’m on and accurate GPS. Is cellular necessary too, for all the Apple watches features to work? Finding it difficult to know which watch will suit my needs. General fitness, walking and hiking. Thanks. 😊
9:31 garmin definitely the winner for the 24/7 heartrate tracking frequency which added more accuracy for the health algorithm calculations.
Desmond, how do you feel about this comparison now that both watches have gotten software updates? Regarding health and sport features/tracking.
Sorry, but it’s Des.
@@DesFit Ah, my bad. I've always thought that you introduced yourself as "It's Desmond Desfit", but listening to your intros now I can hear that I caught that wrong! I'm sorry for the miss.
The navigation features are still much lore robust on Garmin devices as well as the training and performance feedback. Apple has some good stuff going for them but there’s still a large gap between the smartwatch and the sports watch.
Fenix is superior when compared to anything on the market. Easily worth the money.
no it isn't
I tried using HRM straps with this Apple seriesbut it kept disconnecting and using its built-in OHR.
I got the Apple Series 7 just a few months ago. I didn't get it because I wanted a watch to tell me when to go to the toilet or if I am running or how my ECG would be. I know many people love these features, but didn't do anything for me. Thank goodness, wrestling so many years, I never needed a gadget to tell me what to do. HOWEVER, what got me with this watch is we can FINALLY be like in the 80's and not have to CARRY any phone, especially in the summer. Just your shorts and your watch. Best regards, nice video.
p.s. As an engineer, and knowing an OLED screen is so much better at lower consumption and therefore, with careful engineering choices you can have it always on, I could not "unseen" that apple had done it (always on). It is a pity they haven't also included a multi-tandem high performance solar cell with the watch.
I use Apple watch S6 cellular, often standalone, on a daily basis and it is ok. But just an active day at a beach (standalone), walking to and from the beach a couple of times, swimming 4 times for 20 minutes, the battery is empty early evening. So considering changing.
nice and helpfull video, could you do a comparison betzeen the tactix 7 and iwatch 7?
The difference beyond the Fenix 7 would be the tactical features on the Tactix 7. The rest of this video should help with the other differences. 👍
I'm going back and forth between Apple Series 7 and Garmin Fenix 7X, it's hard to decide as an iPhone user. On the one hand, I'd want to utilize the platform but on the other hand, I feel like the Garmin does most of the stuff I want better than the Series 7. Ultimately, I feel like the battery life will be the final deciding factor and for that, Apple has really dropped the ball IMO. Had they provided even 30 hours or so, I'd probably change my mind but 18h is pathetic in comparison to what you get with Garmin.
hi. Are garmin watches well mobile with google apps?
Hello DES, would you mind telling me what is your wrist size? Im looking to buy a EPIX2 but im afraid it is too big for me. Thanks in advance
187mm. The Epix fits well for me. Thanks!
Garmin should include a cellular option in the future and it would kill Apple Watch sales.
Hi ! I train quite consistently but I have never seen 4000 of high aerobic training load !!! Impressive !!!
It's all this darn testing ;)
Beautiful content as always sir I have one question I have Garmin 6 sapphire does it worth the upgrade to7 ?? I do CrossFit that's pretty much
The 4th gen Elevate HR sensor on the Fenix 7 will provide more accurate results than the 3rd gen on the Fenix 6. Even so, for CrossFit, pretty much all wrist HR sensors have a challenge with that type of activity due to all the varying arm movement and wrist flexion. I'd recommend a chest HR strap for the best accuracy for CrossFit. The touchscreen is a really nice upgrade in my opinion though on the 7 from a usability perspective. Thanks!
@@DesFit thanks sir I appreciate your in reply tbh touch screen and a bit accuracy is not worth the upgrade for me I think anyway thanks a lot
Sure thing!
So loving my apple watch 7. But hate how the watch vibrates every time you run a mile. Have you found a way for it not to vibrate with every mile run?
The only selling point for me on Fenix is the battery life, if Apple watches had a bit more juice in them than a few hours, I would definitely had picked an Apple watch over Fenix.
Then you shouldn't have bought a Fenix to begin with as you're not the target market. Fenix is not a smart watch like AW. It's an outdoor focused premium sports watch designed as a tool to push you faster and further. The Fenix is leagues ahead when it comes to anything related to performance and its not even close. They aren't even in the same market comparatively. I think people are struggling with understanding who the Fenix is actually aimed it tbh. You have couch potatoes and weekend warriors buying it and feeling disappointed they can't make calls from it.
What is the benefit to using the Apple Watch upside down? Is there a specific use case?
I like to use the Digital Crown with my right thumb while wearing the watch on my left wrist.
@@DesFit interesting, it never occurred to me that the watch could be worn that way. Might try it out for fun. Might prevent my wrist from pressing buttons while I’m at work
Very good point and that reminds me. Forgot to mention that I also tend to press the Digital Crown button on sleeves while taking jackets on and off. 👍
Thank you for the really overall difference review.
You’re welcome 👍
Considering the design and cellular option on the apple watch, i think I’ll stick with an Apple Watch.
Leaving my phone at home and being able to make, receive calls, reply texts, get notifications, listen to music with my AirPods all without my phone is just priceless.
The bonus features is a vasectomy from all the bluetooth emissions on your body...priceless!
This is the exact reason I decided get one
And then the battery runs out after 8 hours and you're screwed.
@@mdc123-v2v my battery lasts me all day, if I don’t use it to listen to music it can last me almost 2 days. Besides, throwing it on the charger for 15-20 minutes gives a significant amount of battery life
@@mdc123-v2v That’s why it has a charger mate. 🤦🏽♂️🤦🏽♂️
Hello Everyone! Im currently looking to swap from my old moto 360 2nd gen to a new android exclusive watch. I get that the pricetag is massive, but im genuinely curious to hear if people think its worth upgrading if you have a significantly older watch. This poor old moto only holds charge for about 30 minutes these days. Wish I could just swap the battery but I cant source it. Much love from Canada, great review!
I have a Fenix 7 and an Apple Watch 7. Can I wear both? I am a triathlete and have done an Olympic distance wearing an Apple Watch. With the right downloads (ismoothrun and strong), you can duplicate many Fenix features. Alas, I will be getting rid of the Apple Watch as the Fenix 7 just does what I need better. That's sports based needs. How often do I need to reply to texts and take phone calls during exercise; almost never. My iPhone is with me at other times. Both watch brands are great products. You can get away with an Apple Watch for athletics, but, you can't do business on a Garmin. Excellent presentation that sums up perfectly that both are excellent products that suit differing needs.
Great review as always. I had an Apple Watch 5 and returned it for a Forerunner 245, due to constantly having to charge it for long periods of time... re the Garmin I've liked it so far - but the sleep is lacking, it doesn't have the sleep score that you mentioned that the newer Garmin watches have, and has pretty poorly detected when I'm sleeping/awake (not the biggest issue, I've overall been happy). But I did miss the smartwatch features of the Apple (haptic maps navigation was a plus), and the quick charge you mentioned might bring me back - it seems that a charge during a daily shower might just be enough...
Request to add Suunto 9 Peak to comparison ; )
Thank you for this Des!
Sure thing!
Hi from France, it would be wise to activate the subtitles 😉
Thanks for this comparison video. I was just waiting for this.
Sure thing 👍
Talk to me about that shelving unit with the lights on it behind you. Thx
Just a little something off of Amazon 👍
You have the Apple Watch the wrong way around crown dial should be top right
The great thing about the Apple Watch is that they allow you to wear it whichever way you prefer, which this is the way I like it. Even though it’s “wrong”.
Great review. I will wait for the Garmin 9xx with AMOLED display, and I will buy it immediately!
See you in 2034 then 😂
@@germaninvasion121 haha I am happy with my 310xt then 😂
@@paolomanzo2007 All i ever wanted is a fenix w a touchscreen lol only after 5 years we got one.
I’ll take what I can get haha I’m sick and tired of charging my Apple Watch every day🤦🏻♂️
something to note is that if you lose your apple wathc it is easy to locate it, something that garmin cannot, unless it is close to the cell phone
I thought the same when smartphones got flashlights, but even to this day, the flashlight on my phone is my favourite feature.
I seriously love the flashlight on the 7X 👍
I had fenix 6x saphire and I like it very much except for it is not possible to connect its heart rate even with external heart rate to any treadmill machine and I do not know why!!!!!?
Am a 74 year old roadie 50 to 100 miles per week totally healthy except recent pulmonary embolism from spending too much desk time . Of the Garmin Epix and Felix 7 which watch allows me to contact my Bride of 50 years or 911 should I need help when out cycling that will alert recipient of my exact location and or ability to talk to them as long I have my android with me? I have been living the Epix but after your video it seems the Felix 7 with the 51MM dile might be a better pick? Thank you for your attention to this! Jack
Really showing off that godly FTP number. Loved the video, thank you.
Thanks for the nice comparison! would love to se you do a review of the Garmin Descent MK2i😁
Unfortunately I don’t do any diving so I don’t think I could do it justice! Sorry about that!
@@DesFit I see, thanks for your honest response and wish you all the best!
Sure thing and thanks for continuing to tune in!
Bought the AW7 should have bought the Fenix 7 or the Epix
I have Apple watch 8 and my friend wants to trade his Fenix 7s with me, should I trade?
Depends, do you want more smartwatch type integration like the ability to reply to texts and calls or would you prefer more sports and fitness functionality including training feedback?
@@DesFit Well on first place it's meant for sport, everything after is a plus.
What about the Garmin Approach S62 ? Does it have the heart ECG feature?
I've been using the Apple Watch since 2017, I've owned the S2 and now S5... And I was absolutely sure I would never use a different computer other than Apple (after struggling with a horrible Tom Tom that broke after 3 months of use -no warranty-; and 15 years ago with a Toshiba running Windows... I lost my thesis dissertation, on the day of my MSc dissertation because it was running an Update you know the blue screen.... fortunately I got a copy on a flash drive... but I swore never to use a PC ever again...and I guess It applies to any other type of computer...including smartwatches)... but know the Garmin Fenix 7 or the Garmin Epix 2 are very tempting...
If it wasn't for the App WorkOutDoors for Apple Watch I would be getting an Epix... the battery seems awesome and the looks and the construction... maybe I'll give it a try... unlike for any other computer (I won't switch from iPhone, iPad or Mac)... this is tempting.
As a sports watch Garmin is outstanding and lightyears ahead of Apple, just look at even basic things like battery life,. Garmin does it again..
Loved your last comment that there is no “best” watch out there…I’m leaning toward Apple Watch is best for me despite the battery life and apps struggle. Thanks for the thorough comparison!!
Sure thing! Thanks!
When the time comes and the money allows it, I will get the garmin 7 solar saphire. My main uses of deep hiking , camping and climping with good gps and altitude tracking and an enormous batterylife makes the garmin a no brainer for me.
Hi. Congrats for the video. I have three doubts regarding the Fenix 7: 1) Regarding visibility through the screen, how does it affect whether the screen is standard, solar or solar sapphire? Are there differences in terms of visibility, and if so, which one is the most easily readable? 2) Also regarding the screens, is the standard Gorilla Glass DX screen really much easier to scratch compared to the sapphire? In your opinion, does the difference in hardness of the screen justify the change to the sapphire model? and 3) Regarding solar charging, the fact that the battery is being recharged much more frequently without necessarily being low on charge, can this affect the useful life of the battery compared to one without solar charging? Thanks a lot.
No noticeable difference with clarity. I’ve scratched non sapphire lenses before but those were on somewhat severe MTB crashes. I haven’t seen any additional decline in battery life on a Fenix 6 Pro Solar vs a 6 sapphire. Hope that helps. Thanks!
@@DesFit That helps. Thanks a lot.
Good comparison des! I’ve been using garmin for 3 years now, moved from apple watch which i think more of smartwatch rather than sport watch. I was a 10km runner but now mostly i’m doing jumprope as my daily cardio after weight training. I really don’t understand why garmin never put native jump rope activity on their watch… right now i’m using paid app (pylometric) as my jumprope apps on my garmin which is lack of few stats such as VO2 max and not really accurate counting my activityas its not native garmin apps. Hope garmin give more love since jumprope is getting more and more popular lately…
Thanks! VO2 max measurements are generally only available for running and cycling since there are specific algorithms needed to estimate this properly and there's been plenty of research done with those activities. It would be interesting to see VO2 max values be expanded beyond those though with more research.
Apple Watch when you are using work out app it records the heart continuously but after sometime it stops for some time and when you stop and stand then it records. But with Garmin I did not see anything like that.
Can you please help me with my question: why does Apple not calculate cycling in their calculation of VO2 max? Only running and walking?
Cycling VO2 max requires a cycling power meter which currently can't be natively paired to an Apple Watch.
Hi, cool video do you know if Garmin watches can pair with Myzone heart monitor?
Thinners big screen will do great on the fenix/Epix. Great reviews as always.
Thanks!
It all comes down to battery life, i have a fenix6xpro solar lasts for weeks, when my son goes camping or fitness hiking he ditches his apple watch and takes my 6xpro Mydaughter camps up in the sierras alot loves the fenix I bought her plus the garmins always show location of wearer when their in the wild. Im definitley moving up to the Fenix 7 sapphire!
Brillant comparison! Still happy with my FR 945 tough:).
Great watch! Thanks!
Great comparison Des! 👏🏼🤙🏼
Thanks Eric!
Where do you get all your watches from like the Apple Watch series 7 and fenix 7
Most are media review units sent by the manufacturers
Main problems with the Apple Watch are weak battery life, exclusive compatibility with iPhones, and lack of sapphire glass. To Fenix series are the winner in all aspects
The Apple Watch also has a flashlight granted probably not as bright but it has multiple settings read for night, so it doesn’t affect your eyes and flashing when you wanna go out running at night
I should have been more specific in regards to the dedicated LED on the 7X which does not obstruct the display like the Apple Watch and also does not require you to turn your wrist for a more natural orientation of your hand.
Great work!! Appreciation from India
Thanks!
Desfit should I get the fenix 6 as an upgrade from my Apple Watch series 3
It would be quite the upgrade in terms of sports features and battery life. The difference in smartphone integration/smartwatch features would be similar to what I outlined in this video though.
@@DesFit yeah it would as do need for a new watch as my series 3 is getting slow and the gps accuracy was good for one update but then the next it was mehh but it was better then watch os 6 which was the worst watch os I think I have every experience but yeah the fenix 6 pro is much better like better durability, better battery life more work outs to choose from and I can do shallow diving/ snorkeling as yes ik it isn’t a fully dive device but ik it will be good like at 25 feet or 30 feet of ocean pressurization which I normally dive at as the apple watch won’t survive it as I think it will break easily, also the garmin app is hell of alot better then the fitness app. I do like your comparison video.
I think you should make a video or couple of videos detailing which apps or what sort of work an Apple Watch user would need to go through to make up the sort of functionality that the F7/Epix brings that the Apple Watch lacks in terms of sports watch. I'm not saying it is the right choice but Apple moves a lot of product, and also it should be noted that with the new Epix/F7, unless you want the slate steel silver bezel you have to spend an extra $100 which puts every option at more than double the price of the base series 7. So I suspect a lot of people are going to "try" to make it work since there is so much savings to be had.
I currently own a Fenix 6 Pro. I really enjoy it but now occasionally use a hand me down Apple Watch from one of my adult children while at work since it can unlock my phone while wearing a mask. The biggest features that would have helped me decide to upgrade to a new Garmin involve being able to take calls or use voice assistant. Garmin has the tech but didn't roll it into the Epix/F7.
For running a stryd footpod is wonderful, I use my element Roam and powermeter in cycling and for in the gym I have Strong (app). So I do everything with and out of my watch or iphone. When cycling basically the element does the work but all will be synced to apple health & workouts. For hiking and maps I have komoot that also uploads to wahoo easily...
“An even more unfair comparison”. Love it.
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