Garmin Epix Gen 2
In late January 2022 Garmin finally introduced the long anticipated new member of the Fenix line. Next to the Fenix 7 (in multiple models) Garmin also introduced the new Epix line - in the simplest terms a Fenix 7 with on AMOLED screen.
For the last two weeks I had the pleasure to test the Epix in the Saphire black version. I will share my take-aways based on this (still short) time of usage.
Check out the Garmin video showcasing the Epix.
To take a conclusion right away: After more than 5 years of Fenix usage, I love the Epix and think it is the better Fenix for most users (and especially for me). The screen is simply stunning and if you ever wished the Fenix would bring more vibrant colors and a better screen resolution the Epix is the way to go.
But let’s start from the beginning. I will not list all Fenix/Epix features - for this please check the extensive Garmin product overview. The Fenix and Epix most probably share the same software and bring the same software features. Also, the hardware is mostly identical - other than the display technology. While the Fenix comes in many different versions and sizes, the Epix comes in one size - 47mm (identical to the Fenix 7).
Garmin introduced several interesting features in the new lineup:
Touchscreen: The Fenix and Epix did get a touchscreen in the new editions. But rest assured, the buttons are also still available. I was a bit skeptical at first, but I have to admit that the touchscreen feature is a nice addon. Garmin also provided lots of options to configure the touchscreen depending on mode (e.g. sleep, during exercise)
Support for multiple positioning systems: It does improve speed to acquire the current position and depending on the location the multi-band support can also improve accuracy.
Stamina: This is a new feature that is calculating the remaining energy during a run or bicycle ride. Would be great to also get this for hiking.
Software upgrades: Tons of smaller software upgrades are available. The lineup of Fenix/Epix watches now supports more than 60 sports activities.
One key question is battery capacity, especially with the Epix and the new AMOLED screen. The Epix lineup does not come with solar panels to recharge “on the fly” and therefore fully relies on the integrated battery and the available (single) charge. The Epix lineup offers several features to extend the usable battery charge:
Turn-off screen: The screen can be turned off when not actively used. Wrist movement is being detected and the screen is awakened at the right moment. The feature works quite well, but I prefer to also peek at my watch at certain moments without moving my wrist.
Screen brightness: The screen offers three levels of brightness. The lowest one is already quite bright and very well readable in direct sunlight.
Sleep mode: During “do not disturb” times the display can be set to a night mode. This not only uses less power but also is less bright and quite suitable for nighttime.
I currently use the Epix in an always-on mode on medium brightness. At night the screen is put in sleep mode with a reduced data set being displayed. With this setup, the watch does last about 5 days or 4 days with more regular runs and sports activities being recorded. It is okayish and works for me - I would have hoped for a week. I might get there with improved settings and hopefully over time the firmware is also being improved to be less battery draining.
All in all, I’m very happy with the Epix. The screen is simply stunning and moving back to the Fenix screen is almost shocking. Hopefully, Garmin will stick to the Epic line and we will see further improvements down the road. Hopefully, also be a solar option in a later AMOLED version so that we get that 10+ days without a required recharge.
Highly recommended for all outdoor and sports enthusiasts. The hardcore explorers will probably be better served with the Fenix line.
Update 01.09.2022
The Epix 2 is simply epic… after a number of month of extensive usage (daily) I’m still impressed. Especially the software department is doing a huge job improving the device from version to version. The newly added features on HRV, training metrics and guidance are insane. Even battery life (a drawback at first) has improved a lot. With my current settings the battery life was improved from around 5 to more than 8 days. I’m almost up to the level I had with the Fenix 7 beforehand. Still highly recommended, especially as Garmin is committed to further add features and improved the software as we go.