The Garmin Fenix 7X Sapphire Solar stands out as a powerhouse in the world of adventure smartwatches, boasting an impressive array of features designed for outdoor enthusiasts and athletes.
While not the most budget-friendly option, this adventure smartwatch promises to be a long-lasting investment for those seeking a durable, feature-rich companion for their outdoor activities.
In this review, we will explore the various aspects of the Fenix 7X, from its design and build quality to its performance and unique features.
Garmin Fenix 7X Sapphire Solar Spec
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Model | Garmin Fenix 7X Sapphire Solar |
| Display Size | 1.4-inch |
| Display Type | Sunlight-visible, transflective memory-in-pixel with Power Sapphire lens |
| Display Resolution | 280 x 280 pixels |
| Materials | Fiber-reinforced polymer case material with titanium bezel and rear cover |
| Band Material | Silicone quick-release 26mm watch band |
| Water Resistance | 10 ATM |
| Connectivity | Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, ANT+ |
| Satellite Systems | GPS, GLONASS, Galileo, BeiDou, QZSS |
| Sensors | Optical HR, barometer, compass, altimeter, Pulse Ox |
| Storage | 32GB internal storage for up to 2000 songs |
| Battery Life | Up to 28 days in smartwatch mode or 37 days with three hours a day of solar charging |
| Up to 89 hours with GPS or 122 hours with solar charging continuously in direct sunlight | |
| Up to 63 hours with all satellite systems or 77 with solar | |
| Up to 16 hours in GPS mode with music playing | |
| Charging | Solar charging capability |
| Dimensions | 51 x 51 x 14.9mm |
| Weight | 89g (with silicone band) |
| Navigation | Multi-band frequency and multi-GNSS support, preloaded TopoActive maps, support for maps of golf courses |
| and ski resorts worldwide | |
| Health Monitoring | Wrist-based heart rate monitor, Pulse Ox (available in select countries), stress tracking, enhanced sleep |
| tracking | |
| Additional Features | Integrated LED flashlight, touchscreen display, customizable workout settings, hot keys, Garmin Connect IQ |
| Compatibility | Compatible with smartphones (iOS and Android) |
Garmin Fenix 7X Sapphire Solar Pros and Cons
- Built-in Wi-Fi connectivity
- Long Battery Life with Solar Charging Support
- Powerful Garmin Ecosystem
- Preloaded TopoActive Maps
- Five-button Navigation Interface with touchscreen
- Integrated LED Flashlight
- Size and Weight
- Expensive
- No Phone Call or Voice Assistant Support
Garmin Fenix 7X Sapphire Solar Review
The Garmin Fenix 7X Sapphire Solar is a top-tier multisport GPS smartwatch designed for outdoor enthusiasts and athletes. Its key features include
- Solar charging capabilities extend battery life up to 73 hours with solar charging.
- Long-lasting battery performance, with up to 28 days in smartwatch mode and up to 122 hours in GPS mode
- Advanced navigation capabilities, including multi-band GNSS support and preloaded TopoActive maps
- Comprehensive sports tracking and health monitoring features
- Rugged design, with 10 ATM water resistance and MIL-STD-810G testing for thermal, shock, and water resistance
- Intuitive touchscreen interface and trusted button controls
- Smartwatch features, such as notifications, music storage, and Garmin Pay
Design and Build Quality
The Fenix 7X Sapphire Solar showcases Garmin’s commitment to quality craftsmanship.
The larger-sized, round design, coupled with a black DLC titanium case and a matching black band, gives the watch a rugged and sophisticated appearance.
The use of black DLC titanium not only enhances its aesthetic appeal but also contributes to its durability, making it resistant to scratches and wear.
The 1.4-inch always-on display is not only visually impressive but also ensures visibility in various lighting conditions.
The choice of materials, including sapphire glass, reinforces the watch’s sturdiness, making it suitable for both outdoor adventures and everyday wear.
Performance and Sports Tracking
The Fenix 7X Sapphire Solar is not just a timekeeping device; it’s a comprehensive fitness and performance tracker.
With over 30 built-in sports apps, including specialized features for backcountry skiing, XC skiing dynamics, surfing, MTB dynamics, and HIIT workouts, this watch caters to a wide range of activities.
Real-time stamina tracking, training status, and advanced performance metrics provide valuable insights for those looking to elevate their training.
The Visual Race Predictor, PacePro™ Technology, and ClimbPro feature add a competitive edge to your workouts, helping you optimize your performance.
Health and Wellness Monitoring
The Garmin Fenix 7X Sapphire Solar goes beyond being a mere fitness tracker; it’s a comprehensive health and wellness companion.
The inclusion of advanced health monitoring features elevates this smartwatch to a device that not only helps you stay fit but also provides insights into your overall well-being.
One of the standout features is the wrist-based heart rate monitor, offering continuous tracking throughout the day.
This allows users to gauge their heart rate trends during various activities and daily routines.
The accuracy of the heart rate monitoring is crucial for those engaging in different workouts or wanting to keep a close eye on their cardiovascular health.
Pulse Ox, available in select countries, is another noteworthy inclusion. This feature measures the blood oxygen saturation levels, providing insights into how well your body is absorbing oxygen.
While Pulse Ox is not a diagnostic tool, its data can be valuable, especially for activities like high-altitude trekking or understanding your body’s response to different environments.
Stress tracking is a crucial aspect of modern wellness, considering the hectic pace of life. The Fenix 7X assesses stress levels throughout the day, helping users identify patterns and potential triggers.
Managing stress is vital for overall health, and having real-time data on stress levels empowers users to make informed decisions about their daily activities.
Enhanced sleep tracking is another commendable feature that contributes to overall wellness. By monitoring sleep patterns, the Fenix 7X provides insights into the duration and quality of your sleep.
This information can be invaluable for understanding the impact of sleep on your overall health and making lifestyle adjustments for better sleep hygiene.
It’s important to emphasize that while the Fenix 7X offers these health metrics, it is not a substitute for professional medical advice or diagnosis.
The device is intended to provide users with estimations based on collected data, and any health concerns should be addressed with a healthcare professional.
Navigation and Outdoor Features
Garmin is renowned for its GPS technology, and the Fenix 7X continues this tradition by incorporating advanced navigation features.
The watch is equipped with multi-band frequency and GNSS network support, including GPS, GLONASS, and Galileo. This ensures higher positioning accuracy, making it a reliable tool for navigating the outdoors.
The inclusion of a 3-axis compass, gyroscope, and barometric altimeter further enhances the watch’s outdoor capabilities.
Whether you’re trekking in the wilderness, skiing in the mountains, or engaging in water sports, the Fenix 7X provides accurate data to support your adventures.
One notable feature is the preloaded TopoActive maps, allowing users to explore terrains with confidence.
Additionally, the watch supports maps for thousands of golf courses and ski resorts worldwide, catering to a diverse range of outdoor enthusiasts.
The convenience of having maps directly on your wrist, coupled with the watch’s durability, makes it an ideal companion for those who thrive in the great outdoors.
Solar Charging Capabilities
A standout feature of the Fenix 7X Sapphire Solar is its solar charging capability, harnessing the power of the sun to extend battery life.
The watch’s Power Sapphire lens and 1.4-inch display are designed to efficiently utilize solar energy efficiently, offering impressive battery performance.
In smartwatch mode, the Fenix 7X can last up to 28 days indoors or up to 37 days with just 3 hours of direct sunlight exposure (50,000 lux) per day.
When using GPS mode, the watch delivers up to 89 hours indoors or up to 122 hours with continuous solar charging in direct sunlight.
This exceptional battery life, coupled with solar charging, ensures that the Fenix 7X is ready for extended outdoor adventures without the constant need for recharging.
LED Flashlight and Additional Features
An exciting addition to the Fenix 7X is the built-in LED flashlight. This feature, often overlooked, can be a game-changer during nighttime activities or emergencies. The flashlight, integrated into the watch’s design, adds an extra layer of utility to the device.
Compatibility with various accessories, such as chest straps, expands the watch’s functionality. The Fenix 7X Sapphire Solar’s versatility makes it suitable for multiple activities, from everyday fitness routines to specialized outdoor pursuits.
Smartwatch Features
The Garmin Fenix 7X Sapphire Solar features smartwatch capabilities, including:
- Smart notifications
- Music storage
- Garmin Pay contactless payment solution
These features ensure that users can stay connected and manage their daily tasks while on the go. The watch’s smartwatch capabilities make it an excellent choice for users seeking a reliable and feature-packed adventure smartwatch that can also serve as a daily wearable.
Price and Variants
Priced at $899.99 for the tested 51mm sapphire solar model with black DLC titanium and a black silicone band, the Fenix 7X Sapphire Solar is undeniably a premium offering.
However, the price reflects the watch’s advanced features, durable build, and Garmin’s reputation for reliability.
With three available sizes and options for standard, solar, and sapphire solar editions, users can choose from 16 possible combinations, ranging in price from $699.99 to $999.99.
Conclusion:
In conclusion, the Garmin Fenix 7X Sapphire Solar emerges as a top-tier adventure smartwatch, combining durability, cutting-edge technology, and a multitude of features tailored for outdoor enthusiasts.
Its solar charging capabilities, extensive sports tracking features, health monitoring, and robust navigation tools make it a versatile companion for a wide range of activities.
While the premium price may be a consideration for some, the Fenix 7X’s longevity, advanced features, and Garmin’s trusted reputation make it a worthwhile investment for those serious about their outdoor pursuits.
Suppose you’re in search of a reliable and sophisticated tool to elevate your adventures. In that case, the Garmin Fenix 7X Sapphire Solar is more than just a smartwatch – it’s a companion that stands the test of time.
This feature-rich smartwatch is a favorite among adventurers, and for a limited time, you can snag it for a discounted price of $699.99 (originally $899.99) on Amazon. Don’t miss out!
