Just a few hours before the official launch, Garmin has unveiled all the details about its new Fenix 8 lineup on one of its regional websites.
The Dutch version of the Garmin website now lists the Fenix 8 series as “ready to shop in 1-3 business days,” providing us with a full preview of what to expect from these upcoming devices.
Key Upgrades: Garmin Fenix 8 vs Epix (Gen 2) Pro
The new Fenix 8 AMOLED 47mm offers several enhancements over the previous Epix (Gen 2) Pro model. As the Fenix 8 AMOLED pushes the Epix series out of Garmin’s current lineup, here’s a comparison between the two:
Here’s a more visually engaging and eye-catching version of the table:
| 🔥 Feature | 🚀 Fenix 8 – 47mm, AMOLED | ⏳ Epix Pro (Gen 2) – Sapphire – 47mm |
|---|---|---|
| 📏 Size | 47 x 47 x 13.8mm | 47 x 47 x 14.5mm |
| ⚖️ Weight | Stainless Steel: 80g (Case Only 59g) Titanium: 73g (Case Only 52g) | 70g (Case Only: 47g) |
| 💧 Leak-proof Inductive Buttons | ✅ Yes | ❌ No |
| 🎤 Built-in Speaker/Microphone | ✅ Yes (Bluetooth Calling & Offline Voice Assistant) | ❌ No |
| 📱 Screen Size | 1.4 inches | 1.3 inches |
| 🔍 Screen Resolution | 454 x 454 pixels | 416 x 416 pixels |
| 🔋 Battery Life | Smartwatch: Up to 16 days (7 days always on) | Smartwatch: Up to 16 days (6 days always on) |
| Watch Mode: Up to 23 days | Watch Mode: Up to 21 days | |
| GPS Only: Up to 47 hours (37 hours always on) | GPS Only: Up to 42 hours (30 hours always on) | |
| All Satellites: Up to 38 hours (30 hours always on) | All Satellites: Up to 32 hours (24 hours always on) | |
| Satellite + Multiband: Up to 35 hours (28 hours always on) | Satellite + Multiband: Up to 20 hours (15 hours always on) | |
| Satellite + Music: Up to 10 hours | Satellite + Music: Up to 10 hours | |
| Max GPS Mode: Up to 81 hours | Max GPS Mode: Up to 75 hours | |
| Expedition Mode: Up to 17 days | Expedition Mode: Up to 14 days | |
| 🌐 QZSS/BEIDOU Connectivity | ✅ Yes | ❌ No |
| 🌊 Depth Sensor | ✅ Yes (Up to 40m, Scuba Diving Support) | ❌ No |
| 📲 Garmin Share | ✅ Yes | ❌ No |
| 🏋️♂️ Workout Advantage | ✅ Yes | ❌ No |
| 🌦️ Race Predictor (Course & Weather Specific) | ✅ Yes | ❌ No |
| 🌟 Notable Enhancements | Advanced features, better display, enhanced durability (Scuba support included) | Solid performer (Lacks the latest innovations in the Fenix 8 series) |
Is Epix (Gen 2) Pro worth the upgrade from Garmin Fenix 8
Whether upgrading from the Garmin Fenix 8 to the Garmin Epix (Gen 2) Pro is worth it depends on your priorities and how you use your watch.
Garmin’s latest release, the Fenix 8 AMOLED 47mm, marks a significant evolution in the brand’s premium smartwatch lineup. With a series of notable enhancements over the previous Epix (Gen 2) Pro model, the Fenix 8 AMOLED has essentially replaced the Epix range, cementing its place as Garmin’s new flagship.
This comparison will explore the key differences and improvements that make the Fenix 8 AMOLED stand out.
1. Garmin Fenix 8 vs Epix (Gen 2) Pro – Design and Build Quality
One of the most noticeable upgrades in the Fenix 8 is its design. While the Epix (Gen 2) Pro was already a robust and well-built device, the Fenix 8 takes this further by offering a thinner profile. The Fenix 8’s dimensions are 47 x 47 x 13.8mm, compared to the slightly bulkier 47 x 47 x 14.5mm of the Epix (Gen 2) Pro. This reduction in thickness not only makes the Fenix 8 more aesthetically pleasing but also enhances its wearability, making it more suitable for a unisex audience.
Additionally, Garmin has managed to achieve this slim design without compromising on durability. The Fenix 8 retains the ruggedness Garmin watches are known for, with enhanced military standard certifications. Another design innovation is the introduction of leak-proof inductive buttons, a feature not found in the Epix (Gen 2) Pro. These buttons improve the watch’s resistance to water and dust, ensuring it can withstand the harshest environments.
2. Garmin Fenix 8 vs Epix (Gen 2) Pro- Display Improvements
The Fenix 8 AMOLED features a larger and more vibrant display than its predecessor. The screen size has been increased from 1.3 inches on the Epix (Gen 2) Pro to 1.4 inches on the Fenix 8, thanks to a narrower bezel design. This not only gives the watch a more modern and sleek appearance but also provides more screen real estate for displaying information.
Alongside the increase in size, the Fenix 8 offers a resolution boost, with a screen resolution of 454 x 454 pixels compared to the 416 x 416 pixels of the Epix (Gen 2) Pro. This enhancement ensures sharper and clearer visuals, making the user interface more intuitive and enjoyable to use.
3. Garmin Fenix 8 vs Epix (Gen 2) Pro – Battery Life Enhancements
Battery life has always been a critical factor in Garmin’s design philosophy, and the Fenix 8 continues this tradition with substantial improvements. Despite the larger and higher-resolution display, Garmin has managed to extend the battery life of the Fenix 8 compared to the Epix (Gen 2) Pro.
In smartwatch mode, the Fenix 8 offers up to 16 days of battery life, with 7 days in always-on display mode. This is an improvement over the Epix (Gen 2) Pro, which provides up to 16 days of battery life but only 6 days in always-on mode. GPS usage also sees enhancements, with the Fenix 8 delivering up to 47 hours of battery life in GPS-only mode (37 hours with always-on display), compared to 42 hours (30 hours with always-on display) in the Epix (Gen 2) Pro. These improvements are significant for users who rely on their smartwatch for extended outdoor activities.
4. Garmin Fenix 8 vs Epix (Gen 2) Pro – New Features and Functionalities
The Fenix 8 introduces several new features that enhance its functionality beyond what the Epix (Gen 2) Pro offered. One of the standout additions is the depth sensor, which allows the watch to support scuba diving up to 40 meters. This feature, combined with various diving-related functions, makes the Fenix 8 a more versatile tool for water sports enthusiasts.
Additionally, the Fenix 8 supports QZSS/BEIDOU connectivity, which enhances its navigation capabilities, particularly in regions where these satellite systems are prominent. The watch also includes Garmin Share, a new feature that facilitates the sharing of activities and routes with other Garmin users.
Two other noteworthy additions are the Workout Advantage training feature and the Course and Weather Specific Race Predictor. These tools are designed to help athletes optimize their training and race performance by providing insights tailored to specific conditions. While these features debut on the Fenix 8, there is hope they might eventually be available on older Garmin models through software updates.
5. Garmin Fenix 8 vs Epix (Gen 2) Pro Pricing and Availability
In terms of pricing, the Fenix 8 AMOLED 47mm is positioned at 999.99 euros, slightly higher than the GarminEpix (Gen 2) Pro, which retailed at 949.99 euros. Given the array of upgrades and new features, this price difference reflects the added value Garmin has incorporated into the Fenix 8.
Fenix 8 vs. Epix (Gen 2) Pro –Which One Should You Choose?
Go for the Epix Pro 2 if:
- You prefer a watch with a vibrant AMOLED display and a sleek design.
- You want a device that offers comprehensive tracking and advanced metrics right now.
- You find a good deal on the Epix Pro 2 before the Fenix 8 is released.
Wait for the Fenix 8 if:
- You are interested in the latest technology and potential incremental improvements.
- You prefer a rugged design and are looking for enhancements in GPS and sensor performance.
- You can wait for the official release and detailed reviews to make an informed decision.
Conclusion
In summary, the Fenix 8 AMOLED 47mm represents a significant leap forward from the Epix (Gen 2) Pro, offering a more refined design, better display, improved battery life, and a host of new features.
As Garmin continues to innovate, the Fenix 8 sets a new standard for what users can expect from a premium smartwatch. Whether you’re a seasoned athlete or a tech enthusiast, the Fenix 8 promises to deliver a superior experience.
