For several years Garmin would release an annual update to its do-everything Fenix line and also to its Epix line which was, effectively, just a Fenix with an AMOLED screen. Well Garmin finally decided to consolidate and the Fenix is now the one line to rule them all. And I mean that, because it is very literally the best watch I’ve ever worn, but it comes with a hefty price tag. Not only can you now choose between a bright and colorful AMOLED screen or a solar-charging display with mind-boggling battery life, but there are some new features that make the latest Fenix even more versatile.
For starters, the Fenix 8 has cribbed the depth sensor from its Descent line, which means this everyday watch now works as a full-on dive computer from recreational scuba as well as freediving. The watch also now features a microphone and a speaker. This allows you to make some basic voice commands (start an activity, change modes, set a timer, open stopwatch, etc), record voice notes, and even answer a phone call which I used a couple of times while I was showering (note: still no cellular connectivity, though, which is a bummer). It also has a built-in LED flashlight (three levels of white and one red for maintaining night vision) which I ended up using all the time. It also has built-in topographic maps, 24/7 health monitoring, 15+ day battery life, and tracking for over a hundred different activities.
The Fenix 8 comes in 43mm, 47mm, and 51mm sizes and is available in both AMOLED and Solar screen options. Personally, I think AMOLED is the way to go because it looks so good and charging it once every two weeks isn’t a big deal, but if you’re going to be doing some month-long treks in the hinterlands, the 51mm Solar edition starts with a full month of battery life (up to 48 days with regular exposure to the sun). It’s expensive, but it’s fantastic.—Brent Rose
DJ Kamal Mustafa
I’m DJ Kamal Mustafa, the founder and Editor-in-Chief of EMEA Tribune, a digital news platform that focuses on critical stories from Europe, the Middle East, Africa, and Pakistan. With a deep passion for investigative journalism, I’ve built a reputation for delivering exclusive, thought-provoking reports that highlight the region’s most pressing issues.
I’ve been a journalist for over 10 years, and I’m currently associated with EMEA Tribune, ARY News, Daily Times, Samaa TV, Minute Mirror, and many other media outlets. Throughout my career, I’ve remained committed to uncovering the truth and providing valuable insights that inform and engage the public.
