New sensors and torch: Garmin Fenix and Epix get Pro versions
1/6/2023
Translation: machine translated
The Fenix and Epix series from Garmin are now available in a Pro version - in three sizes and two glass variants.
For a long time, sports watches from Garmin were considered the only "real" competition to the Apple Watch. Because they easily beat the watch from Cupertino in the sports and outdoor sector - and at least offered reasonable smartwatch functions.
This changed with the Apple Watch Ultra.
This changed with the Apple Watch Ultra. It is aimed at those customers who seriously use the smartwatch as a tracker for sport and leisure. It is therefore logical that Garmin is now launching a Pro version of the current Fenix 7 and Epix 2 models with additional functions. The Garmin watches should once again stand out more from the Apple Watch Ultra.
The Fenix 7 Pro and the Epix 2 Pro are both available in three sizes with 1.2, 1.3 or 1.4-inch screens. The case size is analogue 42, 47 and 51 millimetres. So you already have six variants to choose from. And there are six more, because every Pro-Garmin is also available with Sapphire glass. This is more stable and yet lighter - but costs an extra 100 francs each.
Source: Garmin
The Fenix 7 Pro is available from 850 francs, the Epix 2 Pro from 950 francs. On paper, this is only 50 francs more than the normal version. In reality, however, the difference to the current prices on the market is significantly greater.
Sports watches + Smartwatches
EUR649,–
Garmin Fenix 7S Pro Solar
42 mm, Fiber-reinforced polymer, One size
4.9
Sports watches + Smartwatches
EUR749,–
Garmin Epix Pro (Gen 2)
42 mm, Stainless steel, Fiber-reinforced polymer, One size
4.9
Sports watches + Smartwatches
EUR741,37
Garmin Fenix 7X Pro Solar
51 mm, Fiber-reinforced polymer, Stainless steel, One size
4.6
Sports watches + Smartwatches
EUR915,17
Garmin Epix Pro (Gen 2)
47 mm, Stainless steel, Fiber-reinforced polymer, One size
4.3
Sports watches + Smartwatches
EUR849,–
Garmin Epix Pro (Gen 2)
51 mm, Fiber-reinforced polymer, Stainless steel, One size
4.3
Sports watches + Smartwatches
EUR734,90
Garmin Fenix 7 Pro Solar
47 mm, Stainless steel, Fiber-reinforced polymer, 5G, One size
4.9
EUR649,–
Garmin Fenix 7S Pro Solar
42 mm, Fiber-reinforced polymer, One size
EUR749,–
Garmin Epix Pro (Gen 2)
42 mm, Stainless steel, Fiber-reinforced polymer, One size
EUR741,37
Garmin Fenix 7X Pro Solar
51 mm, Fiber-reinforced polymer, Stainless steel, One size
EUR915,17
Garmin Epix Pro (Gen 2)
47 mm, Stainless steel, Fiber-reinforced polymer, One size
EUR849,–
Garmin Epix Pro (Gen 2)
51 mm, Fiber-reinforced polymer, Stainless steel, One size
EUR734,90
Garmin Fenix 7 Pro Solar
47 mm, Stainless steel, Fiber-reinforced polymer, 5G, One size
What's really new with the Pro versions
What has been added compared to the standard versions? I've already mentioned the selection of sizes and materials. In addition, every model comes with a real torch in every size. So Garmin doesn't just light up the screen like the Apple Watch, but has separate LEDs built in.
Source: Garmin
The centrepiece - in the truest sense of the word - of the sports watch has also been updated. The fifth-generation heart rate sensor is designed to be even more precise. Garmin is also introducing new analysis tools. The Pro watches have integrated the Hill Score for mountain running training and an endurance value to determine endurance capacity. Tracking programmes for team sports such as basketball, football and hockey are also new.
The remaining functions are the same as on the normal Fenix 7 and Epix 2: 80 sports and outdoor apps from running and cycling to skating or BMX, workouts, health, sleep and fitness tracking, smartwatch functions such as wireless payment or music player and so on and so forth. The variety of features leaves nothing to be desired, especially for sports and outdoor fans.
Source: Garmin
The right Garmin for every type
The differences to the normal versions are not huge overall. It really depends on how important the precision of the measurements or the selection of sizes in certain combinations is. For example, if you don't want the Epix in 47 millimetres, but larger or smaller, then you will definitely have to buy a Pro.
Epix or Fenix? As the functions of both are identical, the question of the difference naturally arises, especially for beginners. This lies in the display - and consequently also in the battery life.
The Epix has an AMOLED screen, as you know it from smartwatches. The Fenix, on the other hand, has a so-called memory-in-pixel (MIP) touch display. These require much less power and are easier to read in direct sunlight, but have less beautiful colours and poorer black levels. The touchscreen experience is also better with AMOLED.
Source: Garmin
The biggest advantage, however, is the longer battery life: the smallest Epix 2 Pro runs for up to ten days in smartwatch mode with an AMOLED screen and up to four days with the always-on screen switched on. The Fenix 7 Pro in 42 millimetre lasts eleven days. The Fenix also has a solar panel, which gives it a battery life of 14 days.
The difference is clearest when comparing the energy-saving modes: the Epix lasts 14 days, while the Fenix lasts an incredible 38 days without solar power and 87 days with solar charging.
If you choose one of the larger versions, the batteries last even longer. Good to know: Whether Pro or not doesn't matter for the battery life.
Cover photo: Garmin
Lorenz Keller
Senior Editor
Lorenz.Keller@digitecgalaxus.chGadgets are my passion - whether you need them for the home office, for the household, for sport and pleasure or for the smart home. Or, of course, for the big hobby next to the family, namely fishing.