Garmin Fenix 7 and Garmin Epix 2 — Discover the best Garmin GPS smartwatches yet
Meet Garmin Fenix 7 and Garmin Epix 2 — either of these two premium GPS smartwatches could be the best Garmin smartwatch of 2022. Garmin Fenix 7 and Epix 2 were launched on the 18th of January 2022 offering us everything we wished for and more. Designed to endure and offer a premium selection of quality features to impress you over and over again. These two are definitely not letting us down. But which one is the best pick for you?
A good smartwatch supports you day in and day out, no matter your plans. When it comes to the best smartwatch, we would like to believe it is fully dependent on the user and his or her needs. Some of us just need the basics, a good-looking design and a budget-friendly price tag. Others might want everything there is on offer wrapped up in an adventure-proof premium design. The latter is exactly what we are talking about when it comes to Garmin Fenix 7 and Epix 2. These gorgeous gadgets are for those who’d rather skip having to choose between a smartwatch and a multisport watch. Expect everything you need and more, outstanding battery life and an all round impressive user experience.
Garmin Fenix 7 is a first-class rugged GPS smartwatch which many of us have been waiting forever since the launch of its popular forerunner Garmin Fenix 6 (launches late in 2019). This durable, reliable and handsome smartwatch series represents Garmin’s best for many. And now it’s back offering us even more. Tried and tested in extreme conditions to ensure durability that is worthy even in the eyes of US military standards. This watch is not easily knocked out by water, heat, or scratches. It’s the ultimate smartwatch for winter sport and definitely one of the few that will perform even in -20C with no problems. An eye-pleasing design, outstanding battery life, fantastic navigation tools, 24/7 health tracking and advanced training features even for sports like golf, surfing, climbing and off-piste skiing. Garmin Fenix 7 is definitely made to impress.
Garmin Epix 2 Garmin Epix is definitely one of Garmin’s less widely known smartwatch series. But we are convinced that Epix generation 2 could be the next fan-favourite and at the top of the highly competitive smartwatch game of 2022. Completely renewed with an up-to-date design, beautiful features and excellent performance. It’s almost hard to believe that Garmin Epix 2 belongs to the same collection with its square-shaped sturdy forerunner. Epix 2 reminds us of the Fenix series in many ways, especially when it comes to its versatile sporty features. One thing you can’t skip when talking about this smartwatch is its gorgeous AMOLED touch display which definitely gives it that extra dash of luxury feel. And believe it or not, despite its AMOLED display this smartwatch also manages to offer us decent battery life. Sure we are not coming close to the ‘’up to 139 days’’ of Fenix 7X, but for most of us, 6 days in smartwatch mode is more than enough.
Index
Garmin Fenix 7 review — What you need to know
The new Garmin Fenix 7 is the ultimate rugged GPS smartwatch offering you everything you could wish for in a good-looking design. With everything, we mean versatile features, durable water, heat, and shock-resistant design, fantastic navigation support and outstanding battery performance. This is the multisport smartwatch that you can count on no matter what. Garmin Fenix 7 is not a budget alternative, but once you take a closer look at its features the slightly more expensive price is more than justified. Garmin Fenix 7 has been tested in extreme conditions in order to ensure top performance even during your wildest adventures.
The new Garmin Fenix 7 has been updated with a renewed solid design. As with earlier versions you can choose from multiple size alternatives: the small yet robust Garmin Fenix 7S, Garmin Fenix 7 and the handsomely big Garmin Fenix 7X which also offers us the longest battery life. The case sizes are the same but thinner when compared to the equivalent models of the Garmin Fenix 6 series. It all comes down to preference. The smaller 7S feels more lightweight on the wrist whereas 7X is equipped to keep you going for longer.
Garmin Fenix 7 — Key features
This article would grow way too long if we’d go through every function that Garmin Fenix 7 has to offer (it’s really that many!). Therefore, we are going to focus on what’s key.
A rugged design and incredible battery life
Garmin Fenix 7 has been built to the U.S. military standard ensuring an extremely durable design in terms of water, extreme temperatures, shocks and more. Impressing us with its outstanding battery life which is supported by a practical solar charging feature ensuring you won’t run out of power any time soon. When used in Expedition GPS mode, the battery of Garmin Fenix 7X will keep you going for up to 139 days without charging which is +148% compared to the equivalent smartwatch in the popular Garmin Fenix 6 Solar series. That’s multiple months of battery life and it goes without saying that there are not many other wearables on the current market that could outperform that number.
The design has been updated with a new metal button guard as well as durable metal-protected lugs ensuring an even more durable design compared to previous editions. The physical buttons are supported by a responsive touchscreen, making it an intuitive experience to control and access the versatile selection of features.
High performance design with your adventures in mind
New: multi led flashlight can you even call yourself a smartwatch for adventurers if you can’t offer a flashlight? The quick-access light helps you minimize the gear you carry on you and can come in handy if you need a beacon to call for help. Please note that this feature is only available on 7X watches.
Maps for every situation Navigate with style! Connect the watch to Wi-Fi and download your personal selection of TopoActive maps for local adventures as well as trips far from home. These detailed maps are complete with all the specs you can need when exploring. Heights, roads, mountains, waters and other landmarks. Discover your surroundings with a simple glance on your wrist. With the practical turn-by-turn navigation feature, it’s easy to stay on your route, even when you’re on the run. But there’s more. Garmin Fenix 7 is equipped with SkiView maps for more than 2000 skiing resorts. Like to play golf? Discover the greens of more than 42 000 international gold destinations conveniently from your wrist.
Your digital workout and wellbeing coach
This multisport smartwatch is a versatile workout buddy ready to encourage you through workout sessions. Garmin Fenix 7 offers an impressive selection of sports apps including golf, surfing, indoor climbing, skiing as well as all the basics of course. Choose from familiar favourites or challenge yourself with something new. The daily personalized workout recommendations make it easy to optimize your training habits to meet your personal goals and level of recovery. Keep on track with your progress and find motivation from the easy-to-read visualized performance stats. Need a little inspiration? Discover a selection of animated workouts that make it easy to fit in a session to lift up your day.
Besides keeping you covered in terms of workout data and motivation, Garmin Fenix 7 also comes in handy when it comes to tracking your overall well being. Discover innovative tools, each designed to support you in taking better care of yourself. The watch offers advanced tracking of sleep, stress, hydration levels, blood oxygen, breath, pulse, energy levels, activity and more. Learn more about your body and ensure you give yourself the rest you need. This smartwatch will guide you through a sustainable journey towards a better you.
Golf, skiing and surfing: not many smart- or sports watches are designed with golf, skiing or surfing in mind. Let alone all three. This watch is ready to adapt itself to the needs of your favourite hobbies. Whether it’s catching the waves, chasing the snow or going for that hole in one. Track your performance in the slopes with the practical off-piste skiing app or record your surf on camera by connecting your watch with a compatible Surfline camera (sold separately).Are you a fan of golf? Garmin Fenix 7 comes complete with detailed CourseView maps for more than 42 000 international golf destinations and features like PlaysLike distance.
Running: Garmin Fenix 7 is a great fit for runners on all levels. The watch is equipped with advanced training features, designed to support you in reaching your personal best. The new Realtime Stamina feature helps you to track and manage your physical exertion from the start to the finish line. Learn to optimize your use of energy in a way that will keep you steady throughout the performance. The innovative Race Predictor Trend feature gives you a visual prediction of your race over time allowing you to review your personal progress as a runner.
Smart features designed for your everyday
Garmin Fenix 7 is a premium-quality combination of both sports watch and smartwatch. Besides offering you a wide selection of workout features, this watch also offers you practical smart features that will help you get through the day. Connect the watch to your smartphone and stay on track of incoming calls, messages and notifications with just a quick glance on your wrist. You can listen to music via popular apps like Spotify, Deezer and Amazon music. Simply pair your Bluetooth earphones with the watch and you’re all set (sold separately). Set up a digital wallet with Garmin Pay and keep your payment cards safe on your wrist.
Make the watch your own and personalise it with a curated selection of widgets, apps and backgrounds. The possibilities are endless when you start to scroll through Garmin’s Connect IQ app store.
Garmin Fenix 7 — technical specs
Here you can find all the specs and details you need to know about Garmin Fenix 7 as well as the differences between the different models available at the time of launching.
|
Garmin Fenix 7X |
Garmin Fenix 7 |
Garmin Fenix 7S |
| Weight |
89g (61g excl. strap) |
73g (50g excl. strap) |
58g (42g excl. strap) |
| Case size |
51 mm |
47 mm |
42 mm |
| Display size and type |
1,4" 280 x 280 px transflective MIP display |
1,3" 260 x 260 px transflective MIP display |
1,2" 240 x 240 px transflective MIP display |
| Battery life in smartwatch mode |
up to 28 days (37 with solar charging) |
up to 18 days (22 with solar charging) |
up to 11 days (14 with solar charging) |
| Battery life in Expedition GPS mode |
up to 62 days (139 with solar charging |
up to 40 days (74 with solar charging |
up to 26 days (43 with solar charging |
| Case and bezel materials |
Fiber reinforced polymer case with metal back and DLC titanium bezel |
Fiber reinforced polymer case with metal back and DLC titanium bezel |
Fiber reinforced polymer case with metal back and DLC titanium bezel |
| Glass |
Power Sapphire |
Power Sapphire |
Power Sapphire |
| Standard strap |
Silicone |
Silicone |
Silicone |
| Strap circumference |
Silicone (108-182 mm), leather (108-175 mm), textile (108-189 mm) or steel (108-180 mm) |
Silicone (125-208 mm), leather (132-210 mm), textile (132-210 mm) or steel (132-215 mm) |
Silicone (127-210 mm), leather (135-213 mm), textile (135-213 mm) or steel (135-225 mm) |
| Water-resistance classification |
10 ATM (100 m) |
10 ATM (100 m) |
10 ATM (100 m) |
| Connections |
Wi-Fi, Bluetooth and ANT+ |
Wi-Fi, Bluetooth and ANT+ |
Wi-Fi, Bluetooth and ANT+ |
Garmin Epix 2 — a durable AMOLED smartwatch
Garmin Epix 2 is a GPS smartwatch, designed to make your day better with its advanced smart technology. We like to consider this watch a slightly more urban edition of the Garmin Fenix that has been supercharged with a beautiful colour-rich AMOLED display. The bright AMOLED touch screen adds a touch of luxury and elevates the user experience to a whole new level. And no we are not giving up on battery performance either. Despite its impressive display, we are talking about up to 6 days of battery life in smartwatch mode which would be a good score for any smartwatch. The wide assortment of workout and health tracking features keep you on the go at the gym, in the city and in the wild. Keep an eye on your daily activity by turning your everyday motion into insightful data. Or maybe you’re up for challenging yourself with an effective session at the gym. You choose and the watch will adapt!
Garmin Epix 2 in a nutshell
Garmin Epix 2 is equipped with a versatile range of workout, wellbeing and smart features. The style-savvy design and the bright AMOLED make this smartwatch the smart accessory that you are actually happy to wear day in and day out. This smartwatch looks equally at home at the gym as at the office.
Practical features for an active lifestyle
Garmin Epix 2 is an all round workout partner, ready to support you in reaching your next fitness goal as well as guiding you towards a more active lifestyle. Take a closer look at your personal training data and discover new ways to challenge your body and boost your performance. Enjoy the ease of daily personalized workout recommendations carefully chosen to suit your personal level of fitness and recovery. Choose from a wide range of training profiles including running, swimming, cycling, hiking, rowing and more. This smartwatch is even suitable for golf, surfing, climbing and skiing. Feel like breaking a sweat? Try the practical HIIT workout feature to easily time the intervals of your AMRAP, Tabata and EMOM workouts. The watch also offers a variety of animated workouts that make it easy to fit in a little workout no matter where you are. The videos can be viewed directly from the bright AMOLED display on your wrist.
Training for a race? Use the watch to predict your race performance and let it estimate your speed throughout the chosen route. This allows you to get an idea of your readiness for the race you are aiming for. The prediction is based on your level of fitness as well as your previous runs. The Realtime Stamina tool is designed to support you in managing your energy levels throughout your performance while PacePro makes it easy to find your personal sweet sport when it comes to optimizing your speed.
Garmin Epix 2 also comes in handy when it comes to keeping an eye on your all round wellbeing, Browse a selection of innovative health tracking features making it easy to collect and review data regarding your sleep quality, energy levels, hydration, pulse, oxygen levels and so much more.
Navigate with excellent precision
Find your way through a new city or ensure you stay on the route when exploring the wilderness. You can connect the watch to Wi-Fi and download detailed TopoActive maps the keep them handy on your wrist. The maps allow you to discover your surroundings near and far with beautiful precision and detail. Furthermore, there's a collection of piste maps for more than 2000 international skiing destinations ready to explore. Golfers can enjoy a beautiful range of over 42000 international CourseView maps for greens around the world.
A smartwatch with always on AMOLED
Garmin Epix 2 is equipped with a bright, vibrant and beautifully sharp AMOLED touch screen giving the smartwatch a luxurious touch. The modern design looks good on the wrist without compromising on comfort. The premium-quality materials support the aesthetics as well as the watch’s excellent level of durability. This is the smartwatch that you can actually wear throughout your day.
In most cases having an AMOLED display on your smart device will result in weak battery performance. But this is not the case with Epix 2. The innovative power-saving mode allows the battery to last up to 16 days in smartwatch mode, which would be impressive for any smartwatch. Simply activate the display with a simple move of the wrist.
A wide selection of smart features
Simplify your everyday with innovative smart features. By connecting Garmin Epix 2 to a compatible smartphone, you are able to view incoming messages, calls and app notifications directly from your smartwatch’s display. Garmin Pay allows you to pay for your groceries even when you choose to leave your wallet at home (or simply forget to bring it along). Always listening to music? Epix 2 is compatible with your favourite music streaming services including Spotify, Amazon Music and Deezer.
Garmin Epix 2 — technical specs
Here you can find all you need to know about Garmin Epix 2. Read more about the technical specifications of the smartwatch down below.
|
Garmin Epix 2 |
| Weight |
70g (47g excl. strap) |
| Case size |
47 mm |
| Display type and size |
1,3’’ 454 x 454 px AMOLED touch screen (always on) |
| Battery life in smartwatch mode |
up to 6 days (16 days with power saving) |
| Battery life in Expedition GPS mnode |
up to 14 days with power saving |
| Case and bezel materials |
Fiber reinforced polymer case with titanium back and bezel |
| Glas |
Sapphire crystal |
| Standard strap |
Silicone |
| Strap circumference |
Silicone (125-208 mm) |
| Water-resistance classification |
10 ATM (100 m) |
| Connections |
Wi-Fi, Bluetooth and ANT+ |
Differences between Garmin Fenix 7 and Garmin Epix 2
Down below we’ve listed the main differences between Garmin Fenix 7 and Garmin Epix 2. Compare and find the best Garmin smartwatch for your. We chose to compare Epix 2 with Fenix 7 because of their similar size (compared to the clearly smaller Fenix 7S and bigger 7X).
Garmin Epix 2 and Garmin Fenix 7 are similar in many ways, but of course, there are plenty of differences too which will make one of the two a better choice for you depending on what kind of smartwatch you are looking for. Garmin Fenix 7 is clearly more heavy-duty offering an extremely rugged (yet good-looking) design and quite possibly the best battery performance on the market. This is the watch that will withstand it all be it -20C icy temperatures or hiking through the wilderness for multiple months. Garmin Epix 2 impresses with its bright AMOLED display and its renewed urban design.
|
Garmin Fenix 7 |
Garmin Epix 2 |
| Weight |
73g (50g excl. strap) |
70g (47g excl. strap) |
| Case size |
47 mm |
47 mm |
| Display type and size |
1,3’’ 260 x 260 px transflective MIP display |
1,3’’ 454 x 454 px AMOLED display (always on) |
| Battery life in smartwatch mode |
up to 18 days (22 with solar charging) |
up to 6 days (16 in power saving mode) |
| Battery life in Expedition GPS mode |
up to 40 days (74 with solar charging) |
up to 14 days in power saving mode |
| Case and bezel material |
Fiber reinforced polymer case with metal back and DLC titanium bezel |
Fiber reinforced polymer case with titanium back and bezel |
| Glas |
Power Sapphire |
Sapphire crystal |
| Standard strap |
Silicone |
Silicone |
| Strap circumference |
Silicone (125-208 mm) |
Silicone (125-208 mm) |
| Water-resistance classification |
10 ATM (100 m) |
10 ATM (100 m) |
| Connections |
Wi-Fi, Bluetooth and ANT+ |
Wi-Fi, Bluetooth and ANT+ |
Browse all the new Garmin smartwatches of 2022
Garmin has started 2022 with a range of product launches. Besides the new premium smartwatches including Fenix 7 and Epix 2 the brand has also come out with two stylish lifestyle smartwatches: Garmin Venu 2 Plus and Garmin Vivomove Sport. View what’s New In from Garmin and find the perfect fit for you.
