There is no better watch then this Fenix 8 in the market. It combines, top sportstracking & coaching, led-light, great UI & features with an 1.4" screen in a 47mm case.
About skin temperature at 6:44 - no, it's not skin temperature. It's just a temperature from watch's internal temperature sensor, used for calibrating barometer. The same metric was present on older Garmin watches. Basically it shows you the curent temperature inside the watch case. It's recorded as oustide temperature into training files, and can be used to assess water temperature to some extent, while swimming. So no, it's actually a mix of outside temperatures and your wrist temperature, because you heat your watch up while wearing.
The 51 mm Fenix 8 feels comfortable and looks fine on my 7" wrist. The stock watch faces were a disappointment, but the Connect IQ store has several that look good and are trouble free. There will be many more available in the near future. I had the watch completely lock up when trying several random different functions, but this has happened only twice in the last 4 days, so hopefully software upgrades will remedy that. My previous watch was the Fenix 5X plus, also 51 mm. I bought it new in 2017 and it was trouble free. I'm so far very pleased with the upgrade to the Fenix 8.
Thanks for this review - I am trying to decide between Amoled and MIP screen. One of my biggest frustrations with Amoled has been how deliberately, you need to lift the watch up to activate the screen. Is this smoother and easier on the Fenix 8?
I'm pretty much in the same boat. The upgraded heart rate sensor and ECG is nice along with the mic and speaker, but the 7X SS is still more than I'll seriously need.
Thank you for the review. Looks like getting or keeping the Epix Pro would be perhaps the better choice, making you save a bunch of money without sacrificing much, only voice commands (which are btw finnicky) and dive. It would be great if you could make a comparison with the Samsung Galaxy Watch Ultra, since you have both. Thanks!
@@victorgalache90 it's minimal times 20 X cheaper then a lot of Swiss watches, and it can handle any situation. It depreciates faster and will be useless after 10 years but even at 1.2K it's not expensive for a watch.
In multiple comparisons I actually noticed the 51mm seems brighter for whatever reason. I was wondering if that was just me since nobody is mentioning it.
5:07 Seems it’s just you and me being completely honest about how INSANE the bugs are? 🤣 Like you said, since the update, the software is better.. but it’s far from “fixed” 🙈 Great video Ryan
Is the frost watch face available on connect IQ ? Thanks ! Great review, I have the Epix Pro 2 Saphire, don´t dive, and don't really see value to upgrade from a capable watch as the Epix.
Did u update ur software? I hv seen few other videos where updating was mentioned. Just incase any garmin watch freezes, does it unfreeze by itself or something should be done? Like restart?
Yes, as I said I've updated it but the issues persist. Yes, sometimes just waiting, sometimes a restart or some other combination of buttons. This needs to be fixed.
People forget that the oled version is having to push double the amount of pixels versus MIP, which introduces a lot of lag. If I was upgrading I'd go for the new Enduro 3. Better screen than Fenix 7 and Enduro 2, nice thin bezels, new 5th gen HR sensor, lightweight because of the plastic back, and $200 cheaper than the Fenix.
Hey mate, trying to decide between this and the epix pro. I have a discount that brings them both to almost the same price. With the Fenix 8 only being $100 AUD more than the Epix. Is it worth getting the Fenix 8 in this scenario? Especially with the current bugs in the software.
If I were you I'd go for the Epix 2 Pro. Especially because there is just so much bug with the new one and who knows how long it takes them to fix them all.
I was thinking exactly that variant for me - black titanium/sapphire 47mm. Most is clear, but does it show pictures in messages like in Viber? As the Venu 3 does.
Well, I am a die-hard Garmin fanboy. I have always bought the latest and greatest Fenix/Tactix since the Tactix Bravo series... However, I have to admit that this is the first time that I feel that the new model would be a waste of money.... I currently own a Fenix 7 pro and I have to admit that the latest model doesn't offer anything that I don't already have. The MIP screen is a must for me as I usually go on multi-day events such as sailing, hiking or cycling... The Fenix 7 pro already has the 5th heart rate sensor, so that's something I already have. The microphone is completely unnecessary for me. I also appreciate the more mature, more reliable firmware (I used to test betas but there was far too much unnecessary frustration and wasted battery cycles...). So Garmin has made my life easier this time around, because I can't see any advantage with this model compared to my Fenix 7 pro...
I totallyagree. I think Garmin is trying hard to produce new feature but due the limit of time you can get real benefit only jumping a series... For example Fenix 3 - - Fenix 5 plus - - Fenix 7x are nice upgrade.... Fenix 5 plus - - Fenix 6 not really...
To be honest Garmin are trying to step into the smartwatch game but they need to pair with a strong software chipset company like samsung or Snapdragon. The cost of these watches and these laggy and crashes from what ive seen are uncalled for. Amoled screens need stronger processing thats is why 3nm chips are being developed. Love garmin MIP displays but switching to full color from my apple watch is a tough call. thanks again
I'd totally agree with you, but the screen size is the same across both models. It's just bigger because it has a bigger battery. Also you can make the font size bigger on the 47mm.
thanks, very interesting when you explain the Garmin's main measurements, can you make a video explain in details everyone more deep, it wiil very intersting.
There are many bugs in the Fenix8.. Screen brightness in low light conditions makes my Fenix 8 51 Amoled completely UNUSABLE!!! Also the watch lags even in the watch face menu.. it’s a horrible experience, never had these issues with my Fenix7X or my EPIXPRO 51!!
Nothing wrong with 47mm, but I ordered the 51mm due to big increase in battery life so guess my skinny wrist will look silly. To each his own. Not sure why so many 47mm reviewers fill they have to justify their selection (no your not the first).
It's called fiber reinforced polymer which is a more durable and mixed kind of plastic, so don't worry it's not junk plastic. That's why it doesn't feel too bad because it's a composite material.
Watch the Fenix 8 tips & tricks video here: ua-cam.com/video/9nPW1HqkmYs/v-deo.html
There is no better watch then this Fenix 8 in the market. It combines, top sportstracking & coaching, led-light, great UI & features with an 1.4" screen in a 47mm case.
Bot
@@airbornmtnbiker nope
That's right, 1.4 in on both 47mm and 51mm AMOLED. same screen. 51mm bigger for battery period.
Incorrect before 47mm was 1.2 but now the 47mm is 1.3. The 51 mm was 1.3 but now the 51mm is 1.4
Both the 47&51mm got a .1 increase in screen size.
@@DarthGengarus your information is incorrect. Read the Fenix 8 specs.
@@DarthGengarus 47mm Amoled has 1.4, 47 Solar only 1.3.
So confident just to be wrong 😂@DarthGengarus
About skin temperature at 6:44 - no, it's not skin temperature. It's just a temperature from watch's internal temperature sensor, used for calibrating barometer. The same metric was present on older Garmin watches. Basically it shows you the curent temperature inside the watch case. It's recorded as oustide temperature into training files, and can be used to assess water temperature to some extent, while swimming.
So no, it's actually a mix of outside temperatures and your wrist temperature, because you heat your watch up while wearing.
These were my first impressions too. Thanks for being honest and genuine.
Always!
The 51 mm Fenix 8 feels comfortable and looks fine on my 7" wrist. The stock watch faces were a disappointment, but the Connect IQ store has several that look good and are trouble free. There will be many more available in the near future. I had the watch completely lock up when trying several random different functions, but this has happened only twice in the last 4 days, so hopefully software upgrades will remedy that. My previous watch was the Fenix 5X plus, also 51 mm. I bought it new in 2017 and it was trouble free. I'm so far very pleased with the upgrade to the Fenix 8.
Thanks for this review - I am trying to decide between Amoled and MIP screen. One of my biggest frustrations with Amoled has been how deliberately, you need to lift the watch up to activate the screen. Is this smoother and easier on the Fenix 8?
I'll stick to my Fenix 7X Pro Sapphire Solar, there's nothing new on the fenix 8 that I'd be using out in the field. Awesome review mate
I'm pretty much in the same boat. The upgraded heart rate sensor and ECG is nice along with the mic and speaker, but the 7X SS is still more than I'll seriously need.
Fenix 7 is mip big bezel
@@Chirp296Or buy a 7 Pro with same sensor and ecg
Thank you for the review. Looks like getting or keeping the Epix Pro would be perhaps the better choice, making you save a bunch of money without sacrificing much, only voice commands (which are btw finnicky) and dive. It would be great if you could make a comparison with the Samsung Galaxy Watch Ultra, since you have both. Thanks!
Thanks for watching!
Literally this watch could have been called Epix Pro Dive Edition and nothing would have happened, same watch but for the modest price of 1100
1.3" screen and Big Bezels.
@@lhzsdgsfbvv Oh yes sir, you are right, that is really worth paying $1200 for.
@@victorgalache90 it's minimal times 20 X cheaper then a lot of Swiss watches, and it can handle any situation. It depreciates faster and will be useless after 10 years but even at 1.2K it's not expensive for a watch.
To many lags in 1100 € watch . Maybe it will work better after software update. Thanks for review and telling true ❤
Hope so
How come 51 has better viewing if both screens are the same size? 1.4
Exactly my thought? The screen size for Fenix 8 amoled is the same size (1.4) for both 47 mm and 51 mm.
Yes both have same display sizes
I think viewing is same but battery is better on 51
In multiple comparisons I actually noticed the 51mm seems brighter for whatever reason. I was wondering if that was just me since nobody is mentioning it.
maybe because they hade different pixels density? just a hunch 😂
Fenix 6 pro bro still rocks😎
Great review, and great perspective on value of this model.
Glad you think so!
You do not need to wear a weightlifting belt when you do cable block lat pulls
What if he is supersetting Mr Knowitall ?? you literally saw 3 sec. now you can judge his life hahaha
5:07 Seems it’s just you and me being completely honest about how INSANE the bugs are? 🤣 Like you said, since the update, the software is better.. but it’s far from “fixed” 🙈 Great video Ryan
Is the frost watch face available on connect IQ ?
Thanks !
Great review, I have the Epix Pro 2 Saphire, don´t dive, and don't really see value to upgrade from a capable watch as the Epix.
I don't think it's available on Connect IQ, but if you could check it out please let us know!
Does this watch only record temperature at night, or is there any setting / option for all day?
what is the half analogue half digital watch face name please, thrust? cant find in the store. Thanks!
Did u update ur software? I hv seen few other videos where updating was mentioned. Just incase any garmin watch freezes, does it unfreeze by itself or something should be done? Like restart?
Yes, as I said I've updated it but the issues persist. Yes, sometimes just waiting, sometimes a restart or some other combination of buttons. This needs to be fixed.
So is this 8 the same as the x7 pro?? Or are they still gonna come out with an 8 pro?
Has any of the bugs gotten fixed with a update?
People forget that the oled version is having to push double the amount of pixels versus MIP, which introduces a lot of lag. If I was upgrading I'd go for the new Enduro 3. Better screen than Fenix 7 and Enduro 2, nice thin bezels, new 5th gen HR sensor, lightweight because of the plastic back, and $200 cheaper than the Fenix.
yes Enduro 3 is best Garmin watch in 2024
I'd agree, but 51mm only on the Enduro 3 makes it a non-starter for a lot of people. They should have added an Enduro 3s, imho.
@@slowmanualA 47mm Enduro 3 would be absolute perfection for me.
Ryan: thank you for an excellent review! Quick question: what is the circumference of your wrist? (in either mm or inches). Thx! 🙂
You're welcome! It's more or less 170mm iirc. Thanks for watching!
@@RyansTechMedia Thank you sir! 😎
Hey mate, trying to decide between this and the epix pro. I have a discount that brings them both to almost the same price. With the Fenix 8 only being $100 AUD more than the Epix.
Is it worth getting the Fenix 8 in this scenario? Especially with the current bugs in the software.
If I were you I'd go for the Epix 2 Pro. Especially because there is just so much bug with the new one and who knows how long it takes them to fix them all.
I was thinking exactly that variant for me - black titanium/sapphire 47mm. Most is clear, but does it show pictures in messages like in Viber? As the Venu 3 does.
It does.
And what about the MIP display version?? Same software but 240x240 pixel there
Awe man, this 51mm watch looks too badass, I should probably get a smaller size that’s less badass looking.
Said no one ever. 🤣
Haha
51mm is just too big, like a damn invicta watch. No one other than other people who own them thinks they look good 😂
Well, I am a die-hard Garmin fanboy. I have always bought the latest and greatest Fenix/Tactix since the Tactix Bravo series... However, I have to admit that this is the first time that I feel that the new model would be a waste of money.... I currently own a Fenix 7 pro and I have to admit that the latest model doesn't offer anything that I don't already have. The MIP screen is a must for me as I usually go on multi-day events such as sailing, hiking or cycling... The Fenix 7 pro already has the 5th heart rate sensor, so that's something I already have. The microphone is completely unnecessary for me. I also appreciate the more mature, more reliable firmware (I used to test betas but there was far too much unnecessary frustration and wasted battery cycles...). So Garmin has made my life easier this time around, because I can't see any advantage with this model compared to my Fenix 7 pro...
I totallyagree. I think Garmin is trying hard to produce new feature but due the limit of time you can get real benefit only jumping a series... For example Fenix 3 - - Fenix 5 plus - - Fenix 7x are nice upgrade.... Fenix 5 plus - - Fenix 6 not really...
To be honest Garmin are trying to step into the smartwatch game but they need to pair with a strong software chipset company like samsung or Snapdragon. The cost of these watches and these laggy and crashes from what ive seen are uncalled for. Amoled screens need stronger processing thats is why 3nm chips are being developed. Love garmin MIP displays but switching to full color from my apple watch is a tough call. thanks again
Way too much lag for a $1100 device. And people crap on Apple….smh
51mm is really important for people with less than optimal eyes. In cases like this big = better.
I'd totally agree with you, but the screen size is the same across both models. It's just bigger because it has a bigger battery. Also you can make the font size bigger on the 47mm.
thanks, very interesting when you explain the Garmin's main measurements, can you make a video explain in details everyone more deep, it wiil very intersting.
Which watch face at 3:02 please? 😍😍
Do the voice notes sync to phone?
There are many bugs in the Fenix8.. Screen brightness in low light conditions makes my Fenix 8 51 Amoled completely UNUSABLE!!! Also the watch lags even in the watch face menu.. it’s a horrible experience, never had these issues with my Fenix7X or my EPIXPRO 51!!
Can’t turn off the screen during activities 😢!? Can’t do it on mine
Hey, what is your wrist size mm?
Thanks
About 170mm iirc.
Nothing wrong with 47mm, but I ordered the 51mm due to big increase in battery life so guess my skinny wrist will look silly. To each his own. Not sure why so many 47mm reviewers fill they have to justify their selection (no your not the first).
This watch is 500€ worth of money.. 1200€ is based on???
A new and unoptimized OS combined with a legacy processor equals a bad experience out of the gate. Add to that Garmin increased prices.
Subscribed :)
Thanks!
@@RyansTechMedia A pleasure!
The 51mm have plastic case on the side?
Yes, it does.
@RyansTechMedia I have it on my hands...it doesn't look and feel like plastic
It's called fiber reinforced polymer which is a more durable and mixed kind of plastic, so don't worry it's not junk plastic. That's why it doesn't feel too bad because it's a composite material.
@@RyansTechMedia still to expensive to have plastic parts
@@tougeattack123So does the Epix. Feels pretty Premium. That being said, Garmin thinks they’re Apple these days
Which watch face at 26 secs please?
It's not a watch face, it's a customized data field screen mid exercise.
Is this better than aw ultra 2?
Not necessarily! But in certain aspects they are better.
@@RyansTechMedia so should I keep my ultra 2 then? Does it have new strength traning plan for bodybuilding?
I'll cover that topic in an upcoming video.
Does it still lag?
Sadly yes.
Bought a 51mm Fenix 8. Updated software, update maps. Stuck in boot loop Blue Triangle. Garmin is a pile of crap.
I've read some people that said it feels like a overpriced toy with the stock watch faces
Saying the 51 looks ridiculous? Shall I call you mista?😂
Mine as zero issues....
Way too expensive. No thanks.
Looks nice though
I don't know, 13 days of battery life with an always-on display is worth $1,000. ☺️
The bigger the better...ask eomen...😅
Issues 🤣🤣🤣..c'mon man
too laggy for money you pay, just wait for 9 or 10 if you have 6 or even 7