Apple Watch Ultra vs Garmin Fenix 7x - An EXPENSIVE Mistake

🔥 GARMIN EPIX vs APPLE WATCH video: • Apple Watch Ultra 2 vs...
Comparison of the Apple Watch Ultra vs the Garmin Fenix 7x Sapphire Solar. As I try to find a suitable watch for my Android phones!
Being a lifetime iPhone fanboy, I was excited to pitch the Ultra and the Fenix, which are similarly priced, against each other in the categories of performance, battery life, fitness tracking, payments, etc. The big question is, is any $800 smart watch worth your cash?
Thanks to @AlexGTech and @ShervinShares for their contributions to this video! Go give them some love!
And thanks to @JamesKellyStudio for his feedback and tips on the thumbnail for this one!
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--SMPOST--Which $800 Smart Watch is Worth Your Money?

[@PeteMatheson]

What do you think about the Apple Watch Ultra? Best smart watch ever? Should I try a different Garmin?

[@TheMaidenOnes]

I am on my second Garmin watch (Enduro), never crashes, rock solid, charges once a month. have not had any problem with garmin pay. I am a long distance runner so battery life is essential on those 10h+ distances.

[@1eryear]

It's too boxy big for my wrists. Granted, the Coros and Ticwatch Pro 5 will look like boyfriend watches but I am going to try them out.

[@jhgjhghgjhg]

Try different profession

[@KnightJackSWO]

I have had a Garmin Fenix 5 that came out in 2017 and it is rock solid, charge last 12 days with constant use and does everything I feel I need in terms of being smart watch and fitness/health tracker. Apple Watches can’t really be a health tracker since 90% of user have to charge it at night for 1/3 the day. Garmin all day, every day.

[@vkoivula]

What? Why do you compare synching Garmin on Samsung Health as Apple Watch doesn't sync at all. Garmin works perfectly fine and out of box to Apple Health LOL.

[@nukerecoil]

The problem with these reviews of Garmin vs Apple. It is like comparing an off-road 4x4 truck "Garmin" and a daily use truck "apple". A tool watch vs a smart watch not the same.

[@ayaoviespoirdjissenou8729]

Spot on mate. I have seen a dozen of these review videos. I have come to the conclusion that people should stop making these videos or give a BIG disclaimer in the title or at the beginning of these videos if the choose to make one. A Garmin watch is a secondary smartwatch at best (maybe excluding the Venus 2 plus). Its primary function is performance and sports metric tracking.

[@aintrxiden]

No the Apple Watch Ultra is sold as a Tool Watch like you say. Even the packaging feels tough and made for extreme conditions

[@nabo4604]

@@aintrxiden yeah, not really

[@TPoorthuis]

Garmin watches aren’t ‘Android watches’. They are fully compatible with iOS

[@quijybojanklebits8750]

Android watches work with ios too

[@chereecarter1782]

Not completely. I have an iPhone 13 pro and a Samsung watch. I lost some pretty important functionality when I switched to iPhone- namely the ECG function no longer works. It will measure my heart rate on my wrist, but the button reader to measure the quality of your heart rhythm is lost. I almost went back to Samsung over it as it was the main reason I got the watch in the first place. @@quijybojanklebits8750

[@LordPicasoNL]

@quijybojanklebits8750 no they do not. You need android phone to use an WearOS watch like the Galaxy Watch 4/5/6 and the pixel watch.

[@quijybojanklebits8750]

@LordPicasoNL you don't, I would know since I owned an I phone and the 5 and it worked fine.

[@NickTrus]

Not quite, using an android gives your Garmin much more options for things like notifications, etc

[@Thedoctorjosh]

The battery life alone is the deciding factor for me. I don't need a second phone on my wrist. I already have one in my hand

[@guus007]

Same here. I already hate to charge my iPhone and AirPods Pro everyday. For a watch that is really no option. So it’s already as simple as that. Garmin is also a fantastic and reliable health watch by the way.

[@joemikeska2657]

You nailed it: Fenix for fitness, Apple for smart features. A couple of things you left out though: for full functionality, the Apple Watch requires a cell network subscription. Also, part of the reason Garmin is difficult to sync is because Apple is the one making it difficult. If they opened up all the features to Garmin, they would lose a huge market share from people switching from AW to Garmin. Personally, I already have a phone, I don’t need a duplicate on my wrist. The Garmin fits my needs for fitness and outdoors tracking better but I understand others have different priorities. Great and honest review.

[@PeteMatheson]

Thank you! To be fair I didn't test the Garmin with Apple. I'm in the process of switching to Android and so my focus was on the Garmin & Android being a suitable replacement for my Apple Watch!

[@misarthim6538]

The only feature missing on Apple for Garmin are the pre-programmed responses to messages and I doubt that if that would be available, people would switch en masse to Garmin. Garmin and AW are fundamentally different devices for people with fundamentally different needs. The only way how each company can dig into other's market share is by providing a product that fits those peoples' needs. Apple is trying with AWU, but they still have way to go. Like, AWU doesn't even support GPX import, etc... so for people doing lots of outdoorsy stuff like me there's just no way I'm getting it. Also 36h is laughable :) There are some sync issues between Garmin and Apple but it's not that Apple is blocking anything for nefarious reasons. It's Garmin's laziness to change their sync algorithm to match Apple's API. It will sync, but will cause double counting of some activities because of that. It's been reported to Garmin for like 3 years:)

[@user-mf1qm2oz3b]

Nonsense. Most people would Never switch from the garmin it is quite obviously meant for athletes. It has some benefits but as a smart watch it is abysmally subpar

[@superzero4250]

The Ultra and the Fenix are two completely different animals. You can literally leave your phone behind and the Ultra has all the functionality of your iPhone and the Fenix. You can’t say the same for the Fenix. Imagine leaving your phone in a gym locker and going out to the track to do a workout, and a random emergency occurs you need to to call 911 / 112, simply call from the Ultra, however, you have to run back to your locker with the Fenix, or carry the actual phone with you… 🤔

[@TheSonyExperience]

They wouldn’t lose a lot of market share because the vast majority of Apple Watch users aren’t fitness minded whatsoever.

[@teamriggs6325]

I think it’s important to note that Garmin watches do come with touch screens which makes it easier to navigate everything

[@serpadu]

I was a AW user from series 3 to series 7, but recently switched to a fenix 7s, and it’s WAY better for my use. I do road cycling and casually hike. I prefer the MIP screen, because it doesn’t need backlight to be seen, which saves tons of power. And in general, the apps are better, since they are more focused on the healthy and training side than connectivity and iPhone integration.

[@tristazmista]

Yeah but they are so poorly built, I was amazed how 1000$ feel and operate after 3 years…

[@qwerty-or1yg]

@@tristazmista is it really that bad? I'm literally considering moving from AW series 7 to a fenix7 (not sure which one yet)

[@pauloconnor2]

I’ve had a Fenix 3 for 8 years and hardly change the watch face it’s not an issue about charging the screen as far as I’m concerned. And been using it with a iPhone without problems

[@marcelopadilla1198]

I have had every Apple Watch since series 3, when the ultra released I didn’t hesitate to get it, but almost immediately felt scammed, it is basically the same old Apple Watch but with an armor jacket and an extra day of battery (can’t even go away for a weekend without a charger). I ditched the ultra and got a Garmin Epix, I loved it and made me realize I didn’t want another phone in my wrist, I never replied messages on it since it is still a small screen and I have my iPhone with me always anyway. The health and fitness data Garmin provides is amazing, not just HR, calories and time. Eventually decide to trade my Epix for the Fenix 7X and loved it even more, the screen feels more like a regular watch, and that also made me realize I don’t need an amoled screen on my wrist, plus charging only once a month makes it already worth it to me over the AWU. I did wear both at the same time for 2 weeks and every time I glanced at my wrists, the AWU looked like a toy compare to the amazing look of the Garmin.

[@jurgenvandenhouwe3670]

I have the Garmin Tactix and feel the same as you about smartwatches.

[@alexstruenorth]

Exactly this! I don’t have notifications etc turned on as I like my Garmin Tactix 7 Solar and older Delta Solar to just be a watch with health tracking capabilities in the background, my Apple Watch hardly gets used and I also have other Casio watches etc I like to wear

[@PG-24]

@@CarrotCrunchingWabbit so? if someone wants your data, they can get it out of a half eaten apple too if they want to

[@cristobalbalenciaga7295]

You had ever apple watch since the AW 3, but felt scammed after the ultra because it was basically the same..? It took you 7 apple watches the realize how minimal the upgrades were..? How😅

[@idkau]

I have the epix 2 and never looked back to Apple Watch. I hated charging every night

[@GeorgeGeo]

The Garmins solar ability and battery life ability makes it much more reliable if you actually go hunting or do things in the woods.. or just are lazy and dont want to take off your watch all the time to charge it. Both are really nice options. I think Garmin over the next few years will be a force in smart/fitness watches.

[@GeorgeGeo]

My friend is a HUGE skier and the ability to load Ski Resort maps and trails on the Garmin is amazing.

[@AlexGTech]

Congrats on 100K Pete!! amazing work mate! And thanks for having me join you for this one!

[@PeteMatheson]

Thanks man! Excited for this one for you too!

[@3nealweber3]

I absolutely Love my Garmin , Apple has some nice features however until they can make a battery that lasts more than 1-2 days , I will stick with Garmin 👍🏻

[@Nornfang]

Well, the watch is running a lot more complex software in the background. It isn’t realistic to think a Smart Watch capable of every thing an Apple Watch can do will ever last that long with current technology. Charging a watch for an hour every 2 days isn’t very tedious and I think an Apple Watch would be more beneficial to every day life for most people. I only run two half marathons a year so a Garmin really isn’t necessary for anything like that. The only way I’d ever consider one is if I chose to do some sort of ultra marathon where battery life like that would actually matter, but truly how many people are doing exercises that last 48+ hours. If you aren’t then why would a 2 week battery even matter

[@TheLoxionKasie]

Same. Besides, I feel the Apple Watch is more "smart watch" with fitness features, while the Garmin is more fitness/tool watch with smart watch features. Different audiences with some convergence in the middle.

[@allmywhat]

@@Nornfang meh I charge my garmin once a week and I won't be swapping that for every day any time soon. On top of that I don't need/want any smart watch features that Garmin isn't already capable of (notifications, music etc)

[@Reiv311]

@@Nornfang "Charging a watch for an hour every 2 days isn’t very tedious..." - it is. You always need to think about where and how you will charge it. Maybe it fits the "9 to 5" lifestyle but with active traveling/working remotely etc. lifestyle, it is big hustle.

[@TheBsheep]

@@Nornfang I totally agree with you. I think the battery life feature is waaayyy overstated. Just stop being lazy and charge your watch..smh

[@bartoszkawecki440]

I was always not in favor of comparing Apple Watch and Garmin Fenix since they seem to be direct competitors but that's not true. Apple Watch is primarily a lifestyle smartwatch with fitness-related capabilities, whereas Garmin Fenix is 100% sports watch with smartphone fuctions. Really happy that you made that point. I wouldn't call Fenix or any Garmin product line a "smart watch" but a "sports watch". Every single feature of Garmin Fenix is included having in mind that it's going to be used by people who run/swim/bike/do any other sport (almost) every single day. Not having OLED is helping to maintain the 2 weeks battery (also makes sleeping while wearing it not a hassle -> helps you measure the sleep quality -> take advatage of that data when it comes to general strain of your body), sturdy buttons - to set anything during in-activity on purpose not by swiping your hand accidentally. Garmin Connect platform is sublime when it comes to having all the necessary information and also export that data to training planning platforms such as Training Peaks. Whereas imo Apple Watch Ultra is wrongfully being positioned as ultra watch (with the release clip of hikers climbing something of a Himalayan peak), having 36h battery in the same time...

[@jakclarke3101]

this comment is perfect

[@techierg1862]

If you want oled go epic 2 pro will go 11 days with always on display and 28 days with out and both fenix 7 and epic do have touch screens

[@Mdogbrown]

From someone that has an Apple Watch 7 and fenix 7 pro solar… I will say I ultimately prefer the 7 pro. It’s a REALLY difficult decision. For anyone that does a lot of hiking, uses maps and needs better battery, the Garmin is a no brainer. If you want most of your smartphone features on your watch just get an Apple Watch. The only thing I miss since switching is weightlifting apps. Garmin has them, but they are less intuitive. I was hiking in the Rockies last week. I took a trail that was more difficult to navigate and the Garmin safely navigated me through and notified me when I was about 100ft off the trail. I would’ve never attempted it with the Apple Watch. Last year my Apple Watch died before my hike was over and I lost my data. Side note: I got the 7 pro because I wanted a flashlight on smaller model, updated HR sensor and a brighter backlight.

[@liuyang9599]

How's the hiking accuracy of Fenix 7? I have a Fenix 5. It's awfully inaccurate on hiking.

[@Mdogbrown]

@@liuyang9599 Spot on. I’ve never used a Fenix 5 but I can confidently say the Fenix 7 is really accurate. The HR sensor is also on par with Apple Watch. I’ve worn both at the same time while doing hikes to compare and tracking is similar.

[@liuyang9599]

Excellent! Another method is to compare with AllTrail APP, which matches with road lablings very well, especially when you take some breaks.@@Mdogbrown

[@ivanschekoldin7315]

@@liuyang9599 but hiking doesn’t really need accuracy. When you cover about 30 km a day, certain errors don’t make much difference

[@liuyang9599]

Thanks for your reply. I did buy a EPIX Gen 2, and found it's has a much better accuracy than Fenix 5 on hiking @@ivanschekoldin7315

[@PurposeTravel]

One thing I never see Apple Watch users do is actually use their watch.

[@ShervinShares]

7:56 LETS GOOOOO what an honor to be in your video

[@PeteMatheson]

Heck yeah! Thank you dude! 🙌🏼

[@dems_mtb]

There is a way to customize watch faces for Garmin in the ConnectIQ app on your phone. I have done it many times.

[@OG1983]

Thanks for the review. Thinking of finally upgrading my Fenix 3. You don’t need an Android phone to use the Garmin watch ecosystem though… Or did that change?

[@JLTPhotog]

Did not change. Have a fenix 6 with iOS and no issues. 👍

[@AHungryHunky]

You don't, Garmin just has slightly more features on Android than IOS, but that's all on Apple for not letting others in. With Android+Garmin you can reply to texts with predefined responses you can set up on Garmin connect, things like ok, yes, no and I am busy. It's not groundbreaking stuff, but it is nice to be able to do that if your hands are tied or your phone is in a pack or something.

[@joretoGT1]

Great video, just one thing that you didn't mention or maybe I missed, is that the screen is a touch screen with which you can also operate/navigate the watch .

[@justhavingfum]

That's the same thing that I was going to mention. He definitely has to go to the settings to make the switch.

[@thebonchavez236]

Hey, Pete! Love your videos! You did a great job comparing the two watches. It ultimately comes down to what you’re after. I prefer Garmin due to fitness analytics vs smartwatch features. The only thing I would say is that I consistently use maps on my forerunner 945 to navigate around places (just used it in Africa last week) and it has not disappointed. Perhaps the Apple Watch maps function is faster to get to, but the Garmin’s is not far behind it but equally (if not more) reliable. Thanks, man!

[@denisea.9033]

This was helpful, thank you!! I’ve actually been a Garmin watch girl for over 6 years (I have 3 of them and love them, they all still work) and have never had an Apple Watch. Last year I got an iPhone though and now I’m debating between the Garmin Epix 2, the Forerunner 965 or the AW series 8 or 9. I’m not an extreme sports person (mostly weights, rowing, running, hiking, Pilates, etc.) so I don’t really need all the sports tracking features the $1000 Garmin Epix has, but I do love so the health metrics I’ve been tracking. I feel like more of a smart watch might be helpful in my day to day, but I’m afraid I’ll miss the Garmin interface and app and of course the battery life! People think it’s just lazyness but it’s nice to not have to worry about bringing a charger for your watch when you go camping, vacations, weekend trips, etc.

[@HomeboyWild]

did you end up getting the aw, epix or fenix?

[@tommyandersen4004]

I would probably have chosen to compare against the Epix 2 instead of the Fenix, given the screen is more comparable.

[@yosefortez4009]

The flashlight on the newer Garmin watches is revolutionary. Nothing on the market competes at the moment. I've used my Garmin Solar flashlight more than my SureFire flashlight.

[@savagedriver1967]

You seem to be under the impression that Garmin watches are Android watches, but that simply isn't the case. Using a Garmin does not put you into the Android ecosystem. And your remark about Garmin Connect is odd too. In the same way the AWU can't be used without an iPhone, Garmin watches can't really be used without Garmin Connect. And offline navigation on Garmin watches which support this feature is great. I genuinely believe that you don't understand what it is you are trying to review.

[@ghostishev]

As a runner, I can prove that Coros does its job very well. Switched from Garmin and don't regret.

[@simonj8074]

@PeteMatheson regarding the cards that arent supported by garmin pay, you can sign up to a Curve card and add 3 non supported cards to that on the free tier, and then add the curve card to the garmin. Not the perfect solution but works.

[@doctorrobert60]

I use the Garmin. Instead of relying on a smart watch for doing everything I use my phone for that. I do not like dealing with email, calls, messages, etc. when exercising. The long battery life of the Garmin is more important to me. Do not like having to charge a watch frequently. Everyone's priorities and needs are unique to each person and I can respect the choices others make. Thanks for the video!

[@VernL4]

But you CAN customize watch faces on the Garmin with your phone. I just did it this morning. If you are changing stuff on the Garmin factory installed watch faces, then you have to do that through the watch. If you want to change things on watch faces that you have downloaded through Connect IQ, you make adjustments using the phone. Swiping through watch faces that you have on the watch is very easy as well- just a long-press on the middle left button on the watch takes you to the screen to swipe through the faces that you have.

[@LobsterRavioli]

I was always a traditional watch wearer, but I bought a Garmin vivoactive 3 a few years back, and loved it. After 3 years, it was showing its age, and I bought an Apple Watch to replace it. I wore the Apple Watch for a month, and I really tried to like it, but I couldn’t understand it’s appeal. I bought a Garmin Instinct a little bit ago, and I really like it. I guess I don’t need all that an Apple Watch can do, when I have a phone that does the same and more. Plus the Garmin gives me some vibes of G Shock, and I appreciate that. Either way, you gotta rock what you like and what fits your lifestyle and job to an extent.

[@adamhuffey7590]

Used an apple Watch for three years and had to charge it every day. Bought a Garmin Venu and wear it all the time, and a full charge from 1% takes less than an hour. Love it for sports and that it's not invasive like other smart watches

[@sayitamilliontimes7125]

As that as bright as that screen can get? Really interested in a fénix, but have some reservations about that

[@Jp3489]

Does the garmin have a depth meter for diving?

[@denncardoso]

just one information, you can customize your watch faces on garmin connect. However, the interface is not so friendly compared to apple watch.

[@petenevard1729]

Great video as always Pete... sure someone else may have noted this or perhaps, you already know by now but if not... A work around on the Garmin Pay is using a Curve card! Its a fantastic solution as it lets you add multiple payment cards to the app but also gives you a Curve card with its own number thats draws funds from the chosen card - you can also, transfer a purchase made on one card to another if you happened to have paid from the wrong account! Anyway... keep making great videos :)

[@1eryear]

I'm going to try out Ticwatch 5 Pro and Coros Apex 2.

[@adamprint644]

Garmin is not an android watch. It’s neither Apple or android. It’s compatible with both and runs on its own software.

[@cre8iveworks]

I've had the Apple watch for quite some time and primarily used Garmin bike computers for road cycling to capture power, cadence, heart rate zones and other beneficial data as well as the maps and routes for rides. Now that I kayak quite a bit, I find the Garmin Epix is my go-to watch. The maps (as well as nautical maps) are amazingly useful when out on the water. I can also get the tides info, latitude and longitude positioning and a host of other marine features. I also use the Garmin for mountain bike rides and it's super useful for trail riding and tracking my positioning right from the map on my wrist without having to pull out my phone and drain the phone battery. The watch is basically a full Garmin computer with all of the pages for customized data fields. I think both watches are great, but the Garmin is more practical for my use with all the rich data, insights on performance - and it even tells you when to rest, when to work on your base fitness and when to do more high impact workouts. While I still use both Apple and and Garmin watches, I use Apple when I need to keep track of emails or have handy for calls - but the battery life is just not able to cover a full day of tracking an activity. The Garmin Epix can run for days with multiple GPS tracking activities AND track sleep without needing to be charged every night. The data, maps and battery life on the Garmin Epix makes it my daily go-to watch for pretty much everything while the Apple watch is more than like left on the charger. Also, although Apple Pay is a lot smoother (as you dont have to key in your code every time you want to pay for something) Garmin pay still works great and I can use it anywhere there is Apple Pay. I pretty much use Garmin Pay when I've left the Apple watch at home on the charger.

[@PeteMatheson]

Thanks! You've just written the script for my next Garmin review! Haha! But cheers for the input though dude :)

[@kobe5952]

you can connect a bike’s full sensor suite as well. I haven’t checked if they had the electronic groupset integration that newer Edge computers have

[@Tyelkormoko]

one of the cool things about the garmin fenix is, that you don't HAVE to buy the x or Pro version, even a basic 7 comes with almost all the features and at least two weeks of battery life on top. That is a lot of money saved.

[@BlazingDeath108]

With my 10 year anniversary at work coming up in a few months, i get a FREE watch from my company, up to $1800 proce range, so im shopping around. Until today, i didnt even know about these other types of fitness watches, i was dead set on getting the Galaxy watch 6 classic. But that's only $650 and id like to get money's worth out of a free watch lol. Thanks for this video, it's really opened up my eyes to other choices and features that watches can have these days!

[@ak4939]

I have the Garmin 7X Pro and it works fantastically well with my iPhone. I get all notifications and such that I expect from a smartwatch. The battery life of nearly a MONTH is the clincher for me. I am also a former Apple watch user

[@David_Palka]

I love to controll my watch by the rotating bezel on my galaxy watch. Easy to controll during run or bike ride and also Samsung Health is all in one nice piece of software.

[@peternelson9865]

If your out in the wilderness with no cell reception, will the apple watch work as a GPS like the Garmin?

[@PeteMatheson]

For GPS yep!

[@tonyg3091]

Only thing I didnt get is what makes one change from Apple to Android phone if they change the watch? I mean I have Tactix Delta and it works perfectly with iPhone.

[@jkpetrov]

You don't need Health Sync on Android. All devices I have (Fitbit Charge, Withings Scale etc) work via Google Fit integration. Am I missing something?

[@PeteMatheson]

You need to use Health Sync to sync the Garmin to Samsung / Google / any other health app.

[@zoltantorok7479]

I'm using my fenix 7 on my iPhone...what change u talk about ?

[@Kukussi]

I loved my garmin 7X but the lack of cellular connectivity made me decide to return to iPhone and Apple Watch ultra! If Garmin and Apple can become friends I’d ditch my Apple Watch ultra in a heart beat!

[@bigmaxcc]

🤔there’s a reason why garmin hasn’t cellular drains battery more which makes sense 😅

[@RobBrulinski]

I get your viewpoint! I went with the watch ultra so that I could ditch my phone and still be in cellular connection for work.

[@seanrivera6459]

Excellent review!!!! Thanks

[@leunam3955]

Very bad experience with iwatch Ultra, with even the built in app (workout), when I run the heart rate goes off and stop recording. I tried soo many time, same thing, most of the time dosent work.Can’t even perform the basic. When I use Garmin Fenix 6 Pro Solar, NO ISSUE at all, rock solid. Have you experienced?

[@poovannaidoo6399]

I find my Apple Watch heart rate monitor going off too. I’m keen on giving the Garmin Fenix 7x Sapphire Solar a go. My AW battery needs to be charged daily.

[@stevowyeth]

I moved back to Apple for watch Ultra. It does so many more convenient things that my 6x doesnt its not funny. I miss my Pixel 7 Pro though (have 14 Pro Max now) and the battery life on the Apple watch is hard to get used to. It would be the perfect watch for me if it could go for a week. My Fenix only used to get 7-8 days with the more complex watch face displaying similar data to the Apple Watch Ultra.

[@alexstruenorth]

My garmin’s outshine my Apple Watch 7 in so many ways not having to charge it every day wearing it for sleep tracking etc, i do like using the apple one for different things though

[@dorinpetrut]

Hello! Unfortunately, I returned my fenix 7x pro solar watch, and I will tell you the reason. It does not record daytime sleep. For example, if I sleep for 2 hours after dinner, it does not record these hours, it considers them as if I were active. From that moment on, what confidence can I have in the health parameters they display? It's a shame, I really liked the watch, but it's a major minus that I couldn't ignore, especially when I'm talking about a gadget of almost 1000 euros.

[@spiercevaughn]

It actually does have nap tracking feature on my fénix 7 pro. It may be a software update? Just got it the other day and haven’t tested that feature out

[@nathanbanks2354]

Which one is easier to read in direct sunlight?

[@PeteMatheson]

AWU - It's bright as anything!

[@cracnain]

Great video, I used both, but Apple watch got LTE…..for indoor sport, definitly prefer garmin.

[@michaelb9940]

MARQ® Athlete (Gen 2) - Performance Edition Modern Tool Watch ? Any thoughts?

[@babyh2121]

I heavily rely on my Apple watch to receive Microsoft Teams and Outlook alerts. Does the Garmin have the same functionality?

[@PeteMatheson]

Yes, but you can't respond to them from the garmin

[@Capitanmerloc]

Personally I agree with most of the video but please consider that Garmin has a whole range of watches with specialised functions. Sailing and sailing race in the quatix or the whole dive computer in the descent version. There are also tactical versions that allow for specialised use like ballistics. No other watch has that! The apple features are ok but they won’t suit any specialised needs. Garmin go much deeper and caters for highly specialised tasks. Hope this positively contributes to the discussion

[@zjshafe]

You can customize each watch face in the connect iq app

[@jeannedarc1566]

Not enough watch face options that show the date and calendar items. But I have changed to Android and Apple Watch doesn't play nice. Also I found I had to change the units separately in the watch app and on the actual Garmin so try that.

[@bigmaxcc]

Pete: buys products to review ☺️ Also Pete: one has to go back 😅

[@PeteMatheson]

Expensive hobby! Can’t keep everything 😬

[@campeanclaudiu]

I see so many comments about how cool is AWU with his e-sim function and how you can use that watch as a phone. I just want to ask you for real, How many of you use this watch as as phone ? How many of you are you going to run or in the gym without phone on your arm or in your pocket? I'm really curious

[@PeteMatheson]

Great when swimming. You can still get messages and notifications. I've gone for runs without a phone before and been able to take calls and message people. I've forgotten my phone by accident and been able to do a whole day of work, including calls and texting the Mrs without a phone!

[@antonioruizmateos]

For me LTE is a deal breaker. I like very much the Garmin watches as sport powerhouses, but I’m much more confident going for a run or even a walk just with my Apple Watch, having the confidence that I can contact or be contacted in case of emergency. The fall detection gives me also a lot of peace of mind.

[@liquidh5226]

Thing is not everyone would want to get a separate line for their watch. But yeah, they could add in that option and charge more like Apple does for that feature.

[@unotoli]

Huawei Watch Pro can call as well. Let's hope they got new sensor on 4th gen (already was present on GT 3)

[@jesukxd8494]

Garmin do offer lte with 975 I think. Also venu 2 is more like smart watch than fenix or forerunner Garmin also offer emergency features

[@marksharp]

I use Garmin pay with my Curve Card. I’ve never had an issue with paying, anywhere.

[@PeteMatheson]

I’ll have to pay for curve as I have quite a few cards with each. If I remember it’s limited to 2 cards only, and still doesn’t work with Amex 😞

[@nancywheeler8359]

Thanks for all the comments, sticking with my Apple Watch and thinking of upgrading to 9 from 3 💃🏻

[@davidgough4750]

I think you might want to recheck the Galaxy Watch 6 Classic or Watch 5 Pro after it upgrades to same version as the Watch 6 Classic next month. Then you can use Samsung Health and the new Sleep Tracking functions. I am looking forward to see the updates to my Watch 5 Pro. By the way it is still a current watch with Samsung...

[@marekkozub8957]

But, if you are an outdoorsy person, you can't do much with Apple watch. In the wilderness, you can't charge your watch in the tent. Unless you have a power bank with you. Also, Garmin has great maps. You can set up your route and watch will give you precise directions.

[@roamwithbrian]

I tried the Garmin Instinct as well as the 955. I ended up returning both and going with the Galaxy Watch 5 Pro. For me the 5 Pro seems like a half way point between the 2. You get the tracking features like Garmin and the smartwatch features most people use along with LTE connection.

[@PeteMatheson]

The lag on the 5 pro annoys me sometimes 😬 hoping the 6 pro will be a big improvement!

[@jesukxd8494]

Maybe I would go with samsung watch or any other smart watch but battery life of 1 or 2 days is just too short. I don't want to charge my watch everyday its too much extra work. Thats why garmin is way to go for me.

[@jcm5404984]

what about the Trex2 pro?

[@arielspalter7425]

I was trying to understand what “besins” were lol😅 just kidding, I love the accent. Great video 👍

[@SmokeyStoner]

You can customise watch faces on your phone.

[@tetchuma]

My 8yo Garmin vivoactive diagnosed my sleep apnea and my restless leg. I now have a Venu 2 Plus that monitors my heart and blood pressure. I don’t have any apps per se, by I do have an ECG function AND,… most importantly… I only have to recharge it every 7-8 days.

[@TheHutchRuns]

"Not many know about these Garmin watches..." 😲🙄😄 Only every person who put on a pair of running shoes and they integrate with the Apple universe seamlessly. It's not a smart watch but way better as a fitness watch/tracker, depends what your main aims are!

[@marksharp]

Pete. You can change the weight from lbs to KG on your user/profile settings in Garmin connect. I was going to get the AWU, but went for the EPIX Gen 2 in the end. It was purely because I don’t think I’m going to stick with an apple phone when my 13 pro is paid for. I’m in the apple eco system but slowly mixing it up. However, if I was to stay with Apple, the AWU would be the top choice smart watch.

[@PeteMatheson]

Thanks Mark! Pretty sure I’ve changed that already but will double check! Epix is definitely tempting. Are the controls / software just the same as the Fenix?

[@marksharp]

@@PeteMatheson yes all the same. It was the screen that was the deciding factor. If I wasn’t having an AWU, I had to have the better display.

[@marksharp]

@@PeteMatheson it maybe the watch you need to change the weight. System settings, Format, then unit settings I think.

[@ferzzolaz]

Hi, the Venu series is a more focused on lifestyle with most fitness features with a tochscreen.

[@jeffsancricca7041]

The AWU suites my lifestyle, that’s really what it’s all about. A watch or any piece of tech isn’t going to be the “best” if you can’t or don’t use it..

[@PeteMatheson]

Spot on

[@brucelin5842]

Is this epix gen 2?

[@prembulex6833]

Garmin if for people that want proper sport watch, apple is if you looking for smart watch

[@akshayshinde8448]

@PeteMatheson please compare Garmin Fenix 7 Apple watch ultra and Huawei Watch Ultimate

[@user-lc4ws2om5j]

Military but just higher tier unit like infantry scouts or just special operator use garmin watches

[@humansrants1694]

So do F-18 pilots its a requirement.

[@nobodynemoq]

Nice comparison, but it's generally like comparing oranges to apples 😉 "Garmin is a fitness watch, and has some smartwatch features. Apple Watch is a smartwatch with fitness features." Well said. So well, that I wrote this while watching your video, just before you said that 🤣 If you want gadgets, shiny screen, built-in LTE, calls - you choose Apple. If you do a lot of workouts, appreciate the durability and don't want to care about recharging your watch everyday - you choose Garmin. What you choose finally depends on what annoys your more. For me personally, it is unacceptable for watch to die after 2 days of continuous use. Also, it is absolutely not acceptable to require you to make any hand gesture to see the watchface - with Garmin, I can have a glance at my wrist to see all data, while on Apple you have to use "always on screen" which kills the battery. Of course, if I had problems like you, I might have a lot of struggle - actually lacking Garmin Pay wouldn't be catastrophic for me, since I always carry phone with me. Same with music - it's easier to use phone to stream music, so I wouldn't care. One thing - Garmin seems to be syncing everything wit Apple Health quite well (I'm using Garmin with iPhone) Finally, all goes to the personal preferences and priorities 😊 Nevertheless, thanks for this video, have a fantastic day! 😁

[@benluff6079]

I have an iphone in my pocket. I don't need a tiny version on my wrist. Garmin fits the bill for hiking/cycling navigation + faff-free activity tracking. And it looks great

[@paulchambers2296]

Surely the Epix Pro with the Amoled screen would have been a better comparison?!

[@layersoftheonion8168]

I have just got the Fenix 7 solar sapphire and love it (am wondering if I should have gotten the X for the flashlight though), however, it’s such a step up from my previous vivoactive and I don’t want basically a small version of an iPhone on my wrist. I also way prefer the look of it and that battery life - so happy with it.

[@ty4living]

I recently got the Fenix 7x sapphire solar, the flashlight is handy to have, but I myself don’t use it a lot. I don’t use it on trail runs since it’s basically pointing down at my feet and not ahead so there’s no use for it there. Although the red light can be useful just to be seen by traffic if road running early in the morning or night

[@layersoftheonion8168]

@@ty4living - thanks for your intel.

[@fineflipside]

This be Bussin!

[@dutchovenguy]

I wear a Garmin 965 and an Apple Ultra. They complement each other.

[@TCinSoCal]

I’ve gone back and forth so many times.. prefer Garmin. We bike, hike, ski, run, walk, golf, etc. and Garmin rocks them all. I can spend a week in Utah skiing, using watch all day and not have to charge my watch on the trip. Golf courses built in. I’ve stopped even looking when dinging my Fenix 6X on a door or something as I know it’s fine. It’s the best piece of tech I own.

[@aabsc]

Even though you preferred the Apple watch, this video convinced me to get the Fenix 7x Pro Solar, the features you like of the Apple watch aren't important to me and the features of the Garmin that aren't as important to you are more important to me.

[@mervhoward5821]

What’s never reported on these comparison videos, is that if you were on a week long hike with an Ultra, you just take a charging cable and a battery or just a battery that’s made for charging it.

[@elyssarespaut9053]

FYI regarding your comment about not having kilograms on your phone app. Garmin is difficult but you have to go into the app, settings -> user settings -> measurement units and then you can change to metric. Why you have to do it in on the app and device specific is beyond me but every Garmin I've had was this way :/

[@jasonrollo5961]

I have the ultra .. & I don’t use half the features.. so perhaps it’s better or switched to the germin

[@nsteblay]

I don't need humongous app platform on my wrist with poor battery life. I prefer the Garmins for their integrated sports features and excellent design.

[@AHungryHunky]

I think you have it right, the Apple Watch is a great smart watch with fitness tracking, and the Garmin is a great sports watch with some smart features. There is a significant overlap for that reason The Feñix 7 does have touch screen, its first Fenix to have it but Garmin has used touch on its lower/mid tier watches for some time now. There are people here telling you to get the Epix. As a fan of Garmin I will tell you not to. From your words your disappointment with the Fenix goes beyond its MiP screen and into the general user experience. The Epix will not correct that, it is essentially a Fenix with a worse battery and nicer screen. It functions identically otherwise. The new Pro models have brought some nice upgrades but have not improved on the Smart Watch experience. The best Garmin "smartwatch" is still the Venu. I dont think anyone will ever top Apple for integration/user experience but that also plays into why I stopped buying Apple products a while ago. Apple works really well with more Apple, but Apple also intentionally tries to make the integration with other devices worse or impossible. Apple really wants you to use only Apple products and that just leaves a bad taste in my mouth. For example, Garmin DOES work on IOS, its not really an "Android" product, but its smart features are gimped on iOS. It cant send messages like it can on Android and to my understanding thats due to Apple not allowing anyone near their message service, rather than a lack lf compatability on Garmins end. The Garmin does have a few tricks up its sleeve though, for example the data fields on its native watch faces can be held to take you directly to the widget with that information. So if you had Altitude as a datafeild you could just press it and it would take you right to the Altitude widget and show you a several hour history. Placing your palm over the screen will return you home. The torch/flashlight was such a handy feature that on the new Pro models all sizes of the watch have it including the Epix pro models, as well as watches like the Enduro and Instinct 2x also receiving it. The native available faces can be customized entirely from the watch, but ConnectIQ faces require you to use the app to customize them, which is why I tend to stick with native faces. The Fenix also can connect fairly easily to exterior sensors and devices like chest straps, bicycle power meters, exterior temp sensors and even Garmin's inReach devices enabling them to receive messages and weather data outside of cellular range. Speaking of Cell service, the Garmin contains fully routeable mapping with street and trail names, and to my knowledge is the only watch on the market that does. They will work anywhere you can connect to a satellite and does not need a phone at all to work. The AWU also only comes in that one, gigantic size meaning it only competes with 1/3 of the Fenix line. The Garmin also does have incedent detection. Being that it does not have LTE capability it requires a nearby phone or inReach device to work and will only automatically triggers during an activity, otherwise you'll have to manually trigger it. Still better than it not being there, but the Apple version is better. I would finally like to add, the Solar charger on the Garmin will NOT charge the watch. The available space for full solar panels is small and the power drain from normal usage outpaces the small amount of charging it can generate. What it does do is offset the battery drain, it's more of a "range extender" than it is a way to charge the watch. If you want a sport/smart watch that can run nearly indefinitely on Solar you'll have to look at their Instinct 2 and 2x, but there are some definite sacrifices there, like color display.

[@denesk2794]

+1 notable feature for the Garmin is ANT+ support. It can talk to external sensors. Speed, temperature and you can pair to certain e-bikes as well to do a complete tracking and display battery status as well. The rep counter is great and I am shocked the Apple Watch has none of that. Accuracy: the altitude / elevation gain of the Apple Watch is subpar. I have the Gen 8, not the ultra, but there is a serious discrepancy between the altitude gain calculation on every single ride. Anywhere from 10-30%. The Fenix (6) was checked against a bigger Garmin unit and maps, and it is spot-on. Might be better in the ULTRA, I am not sure... But hey .. why choose. Garmin on left hand, Apple Watch on right hand. No, seriously, I do that.

[@denesk2794]

BTW, Garmin has crash detection feature as well.

[@davidbraswell1481]

hold on to your seats apple can too in version 10!

[@davidbraswell1481]

I dont have this glitch of altitude we ride buggys all up in the mountains and never an issue!

[@shreddagorge]

ANT is a far better wireless technology for most fitness sensors than Bluetooth, and requires a much thinner software stack. It was designed specifically for that purpose by a Canadian company called Dynastream, and with it you'll have fewer drops and longer battery life. OTOH, Bluetooth is better for streaming audio and video and more network-oriented functions (I kinda think of it like the differences between UDP and TCP). You can get amazing battery life with Garmin devices just by using ANT and keeping BT off.

[@shreddagorge]

Now Garmin altitude sensors haven't always been the best either. I once climbed several hundred feet (with a Fenix 5) SUPping on the Laguna Madre on a hot day. 😆

[@peakproofuk]

Probably should have got an Epix which is a Fenix with an OLED screen. More interesting comparison.

[@PeteMatheson]

Everyone kept telling me to get the Fenix!

[@JPspinFPV]

For me it has to be the Garmin. I'm already an Android user for one, for two it feels like just a better fitness and navigation watch, at least in the back country. Anything that a smartwatch has to offer i will just use my phone because it offers a better user experience and I won't be leaving home without it anyhow.

[@quijybojanklebits8750]

I am the same android is just better in the variety of uses that 3rd party software offers to the literal computer we carry in our pockets. The watches and phones like the galaxy line from Samsung are awesome because of the battery life, cameras and in durability. The watch in this video is freaking awesome for all outdoor stuff cuz kayaking killed 2 watches for me.

[@wallyhiggens5369]

Great review! The reviewer seems like the perfect candidate for an apple watch and it helped me realize that want nothing to do with an apple watch! I appreciate the solid breakdown of the lifestyle that both products are made for as well as an overview of the convinces gained in exchange for privacy. To some it's a great trade and more power to them! To me, no thanks but that's just different strokes for different folks

[@tyependry1016]

I would’ve liked a comparison of the gps functions on both watches… I feel like garmin blows apple out of the water for gps navigation in the backcountry

[@johnmharris4572]

Just traded in my ultra for the fenix 7X solar sapphire

[@PeteMatheson]

Whoah! nice - what do you think of it?

[@poovannaidoo6399]

Your thoughts on the Fenix 7x Solar Pro?

[@jakibotham5600]

The Fenix 7 does have touch screen too so best of both worlds

[@pawelkapica5363]

I was looking for something that can log my workouts with weights and calisthenics, has GPS for hiking, and has great battery life. I used to own an Apple Watch a while ago, but I don't need most of the features as I have my phone with me and the Apple tends to just distract me. With its amazing battery life and all the features I require, without the nonsense, the Garmin is a clear winner for me. The fact that I have to charge the Apple Watch daily is a dealbreaker.

[@valdius85]

One day I would love to buy a sports watch made by Apple. Ultra is an expensive jewellery. Similar body, less water protection, cheaper and lighter body with taller notch for protecting the screen.