2024 Sportswatch Year In Review with DC Rainmaker // Apple, Garmin, Samsung, COROS, and More!

[@massi888]

thank you guys, you are the best sport tech reviewers

[@DesFit]

Thanks!

[@mlegrand]

I feel like there's no real way for me to truly appreciate this comprehensive review of this years watches without seeing the actual work that it took to have all of these watches charged and ready to go for actual recording. #lastVideoInTheCave

[@palmsolo]

Thanks!

[@DesFit]

Whoa, thanks so much, Matt!

[@MorningStar5354]

You guys are perfect, keep doing this collaboration

[@DesFit]

Thanks and will do!

[@gerthilbrands]

never knew that the MIP displays are more expensive to make then amoled!

[@lhzsdgsfbvv]

Scale and innovation is everything.

[@gustavevilleneuvedehoff-un5459]

Guys, you both are just awesome. Thank you.

[@DesFit]

Thanks!! 🙏

[@markrocks692]

I upgraded from a Forerunner 245 to a preloved 745, and now to an Epix Gen 2 Sapphire. Each one has been more than I’ve needed as a regular half marathon/marathon runner and the Epix is definitely overkill-but I absolutely love it. Honestly, unless I physically break this watch, I can’t see any reason to upgrade. Perhaps wireless charging might be introduced someday, but beyond that, can Garmin really keep reinventing the wheel?

[@seb5945]

I bought Pixel Watch 3 after watching you guys' reviews. The cardio load feature was the main reason I went with it. My job is physically demanding, and I want to track myself without having to start a specific workout type.

[@Korg_The_Komic]

How you like it?

[@Aslanreviewstech]

been waiting for this all year, great work as always guys. easiest 2 hour long video to watch 😁 loved it. and thanks.

[@DesFit]

Glad you enjoyed it and thank you!

[@thomasmann6416]

The voice of DC Rainmaker sounds so deep in this video... haha

[@jkadbhjadhboa]

Cinema-quality audio! 😂

[@mlegrand]

I feel like he might be a touch sick or maybe he partied too hard at the DCR open house event. 🤷‍♂

[@chopsuey33]

Sounds slightly under the weather

[@Dcrainmaker]

We had the DCR Open House the night prior, by the end of the night my voice was shot. Just not used to talking that much!!! By the end of this video, I think we had to do like 3 takes to make it through the last 30 seconds.

[@mccask]

AI DCR

[@joshhoffman1975]

Love you guys each year! 🌎#1️⃣ 🙌💖💝💘🏆💯

[@DesFit]

We love doing them!

[@palmsolo]

Keep up the amazing work! You two are an inspiration for all of us wearable fans and enthusiasts.

[@DesFit]

Thanks so much, Matt! Keep up the amazing work as well 👍

[@vnvtraining7203]

Garmin has too many models. I’m still using my Forerunner 955 and it works great. No plans to upgrade anytime soon!

[@aaronslattery5615]

I'm planning on ordering one tomorrow. 👍 It's such a good deal now compared to others.

[@4tCa4mzUPqRZZo]

Thanks for doing these every year! Love them each time!!!

[@DesFit]

Glad you enjoy them. Thanks!

[@Earthcastedrone]

Thanks to both of your reviews I got myself an Enduro 3 instead of Fenix 8, and am absolutely happy with it. Also saved another €100 on a Black Friday sale.

[@jareou]

You guys are the Rock in the cycling and smart tech industry! Apple and Samsung has been copying each other for years, especially on the smartphone side, which is a good thing. Samsung needs an external sensor bluetooth connection for sure. That is the one thing keeping from me buying another samsung watch.

[@ActiveIdeas]

Awesome video! So excited for next year! Wishlist: Amoled Vertix 3, Suunto Vertical 2, Fenix 8 Pro, Apple Watch Ultra 3, T-Rex 4 … and Polar, a massive software revamp 🔥

[@bewater4732]

Garmin 165 for the win !!

[@terrytipton]

Fantastic job, this is so useful. Thank you for the amazing detail

[@DesFit]

Glad you found it useful, and thanks!

[@thani7963]

Great guys were waiting for this.we must have a winner.

[@DesFit]

It’s worth the wait! :)

[@Alejandro89kg]

I love when you guys do these yearly reviews! I’ll probably keep to my Apple Watch Ultra, but it’s interesting to know what the rest of the sports smartwatch segment is getting. Thank you both!

[@DesFit]

Glad you enjoy them! And thanks!

[@jimhine]

You collabs are outstanding and I love both your channels independently. Have a great 2025🎉

[@ianrob4760]

one of the ones I always look forward to and a giant two hours !!

[@jimlwolfe-empty-midwest]

Love these year end reviews!

[@DesFit]

🙌

[@tanyapitre731]

My Suunto Race S was delivered while I was watching this video. 😂

[@VolkanOzdamar]

The real sign of we close the end of the year 🎉

[@DesFit]

🎉

[@MrBecksy2]

Always been a Garmin watch user since Fenix 2. Currently have a fenix 6. Been put off garmin a bit now as they are all so expensive now. Even the forerunner 265 and 965 are expensive. Really like the Suunto race s, would like to get one but they need to improve the music capability for me, love the fact I can just sync playlists to the fenix and leave my phone at home when out running.

[@tonybowen455]

Yes! In person!

[@DesFit]

🙌🙌

[@thefestivalking3849]

Great reviews keep it up guys

[@DesFit]

Thanks!

[@вованчикс]

Just bought at Black Friday sales an Suunto X Mammut Vertical and it's a beautiful with a nuce MIP display and stylish watch. Just love it 😍

[@ponderingfox]

I'm ready for some new Forerunners!

[@SirRasor]

275 with MIP+Solar? :) that would be perfect!

[@fookie-fone]

The Sennheiser Momentum Sport was a surprise bonus! I’ve had a ton of portable wireless sound devices as well and Sennheiser has some of the best sound for the money. For outdoor sports however, Shockz are the best for that use case. I sometimes use the Jaybird Vista 2 for use on the turbo trainer. For indoor gym and travel, the Bose QC Ultra headphones. For everyday earbud use, I switch between the AirPods Pro and Sony XM5 buds.

[@GroteGeer]

Personal, I like the Huawei Free Clip - Open Earbuds. Very comfortable with a multipoint. There is no hassle with left or right - Huawei detect this automatically.

[@liliakilmer9773]

My first Garmin watch is a Fenix 7S sapphire solar pro. I like it a lot but I'm currently down trying to heal from a total knee replacement so there's no hiking or swimming for the moment. I was gifted a Venu 3 recently and for the moment it's absolutely perfect. I added Physical Therapy in my activities and it tracks everything I need while recovering especially since I'm indoors a lot more and the display is better for that. Garmin makes the best watches 😊

[@tonybowen455]

I was really surprised how good the display is on the venu when I checked out watches in store. I like my 965, and I can't imagine what would make me want to upgrade. If garmin made the fenix 9 screen like the venu with 5 buttons and 30+ hr gps batt life, I think that's the only thing that'd get me to want to upgrade.

[@Writer_Davide]

When considering everything I couldn’t resist how good the Fenix 8 47mm looks and as a result it sits pleasingly on my wrist.

[@syamsularifinmohamadyunus8144]

Great 🎉

[@michaellanger5671]

That was a pleasant way to spend the evening! Thank you! I am still on my Epix Pro. I was waiting for the new Tactix or maybe even the MicroLed Fenix that was leaked…But we’ll see how and when they ey will be released. It’s the very first time that I am not excited about Garmin‘s new line of watches

[@robturner724]

This year I went from the Coros Vertix 1 to the Suunto Race S. It's an incredible watch especially for the money

[@AHungryHunky]

On the "talk to the watch" bit with the Fenix 8, I have to agree. I feel like enough of a weirdo when I use my Shokz for phone calls but with 2 kids and the fact that cell phones have warped peoples expectations of availability, I do appreciate hands-free calling. I just dont see the point in using my watch though, since i would have to keep my wrist raised and effectively it would be the same as holding a phone.

[@joaovallecosta8953]

Great review, thank you for all your good work in sport watches review. Feel a lit bit divided between Garmin Epix/Fenix and Apple WU2, for me the best watches.

[@anklexpress]

From the briefest of glances at the background...that Canyon spraybottle of liquid almost looked like a whiskey bottle, until I saw the spray bottle top. Was thinking you guys were having quite the time at the end of the year! 😂

[@MikeJohnson-qy4wq]

That’s what I thought too 😂 like oh they’ve got a nice single malt to celebrate making the video loll

[@thebluebell89]

I only realised there's a spray top because you mentioned it. I also thought it was whiskey

[@DesFit]

Our next podcast isn’t as sober 😉

[@rcuadro]

Des... I like your channel and love your reviews. Eliminating words such as like, uhh, you know, will take your presentations to the next level.

[@DesFit]

Couldn’t agree more. It’s something I try to work on with every video. Appreciate the constructive feedback and thanks for tuning in!

[@michaelsellors5227]

Bit harsh on the T-Rex 3, sure, it’s not perfect but I bought for £214 on Amazon last week. No watch can compare pound for pound.

[@michaelvieira5081]

Eventually bought my XMAS present and pitched the Fenix 8 solar 47, I had a fenix 7 , wow stunning, had a Epix Gen 2 before but prefer the MIP display , better battery life and always in love it 😊, go Garmin

[@andreasringstrom6005]

Been waiting for this! And so curious on what watch Des is sporting under that sleeve!😂 maybe in a video in the near future?

[@tmizzone]

Great work as usual guys! One thing to mention about the PW3 is if Google added support for external chest based heart rate monitors, I believe they would see more adoption from the fitness community. Optical wrist based is often way off and having bad data associated with metrics impacts the entire fitness picture.

[@gonmunozf]

19:38 that "will you marry me?" gesture 😆

[@mmh129]

Thank you guys for your work. I enjoy your content, even if I'm not in the market for a device. Couldn't agree more with you on the Fenix 8 and E. It seems like a lazy money grab. Not to mention the large number of bugs, more than normal for a new model. Some made the watch unusable for some activities. They also dropped the ball with the software updates for the Fenix 7/ 7 Pro. They didn't fix some major bugs reported on beta. Hopefully Garmin isn't going full enshittification.

[@60beats44]

My experience with the ‘Enduro 3’: Riddled with many many firmware bugs, including not synching with Wi-Fi. Returned it for a far more reliable 'Forerunner 965’.

[@robbied4766]

Garmin really needs to just trim the god damn line down.

[@greertops]

Coros Pace Pro, watch of the year

[@patspencer9375]

Thank you for the comprehensive reviews. As a scuba diver and multisport athlete I am considering the Garmin Descent Mk3 series as my next purchase. Both my dive computer and current garmin fenix are getting a bit outdated. I have seen a lot of reviews about the dive capabilities, but none about the sport capabilities. I am wondering if you have any information about this?

[@joshhoffman1975]

Who did I miss this! 😮😢

[@DesFit]

Got to have those notifications on! :)

[@lyromata]

Agree with cellular comment. There is a huge safety element and need to be able to make emergency call/contact with the watch on your wrist. Not even talking about trying to replicate the watch to be a phone, just emergency call functions.

[@bonn1771]

Been waiting for this

[@DesFit]

🙌

[@mshiladitya86]

Great one, extremely insightful... I wonder where you would place the Venu 3 in this list, if at all...and what's your short take on it...

[@Dcrainmaker]

The Venu 3 actually came in 2023, so, didn't quite make the cut for this year's releases. Still, it's a solid watch that aims to compete with the Apple/Samsung watches in the mainstream category.

[@adamhindle9215]

It'll be interesting to know your thoughts on how the Garmin Instinct 3 range fits into all this, given their lack of mapping and DC's comments at 1:51:00. Note: the Canyon bottle looks like it could actually be whisky. Perhaps an opportunity there...

[@feartheroo42]

You guys mentioned the Epix Gen 2 (non-pro). Would you still say it’s a good watch with it going in 3 yrs old? Can get a brand new unopened for 320. Just nervous about it being 3 yrs old. Thoughts? Not a major athlete. I’m definitely not the rather audience. Just like the looks, maps and data. Love both of your channels. Can tell you guys are passionate about what you do. Keep it up!

[@GusBougadis]

Nice review

[@LarsVonderschmitt]

Great overview again. @Google they need a more rugged watch. I liked the Pixel Watch 2, but it was too small and I always was afraid of breaking it during sports.

[@jimhine]

Very interesting Epix G2 discussion. I just picked up the sapphire titanium in white for 400 and black version @ 450 for my brother over Black Friday. I couldn’t resist getting into a a budget Fenix with amoled coming from an Instinct solar.

[@adimperial]

Coros Pace Pro is my favorite watch ever after owning several Garmins (Fenix 3hr, instinct 2 solar, fr955, 965.). The AMOLED screen is fantastic, watch faces are so well done and accuracy is spot on. The blue one with nylon strap looks the best in person imo (had grey but returned it)

[@helderpaixao8064]

Why coros pace pro is your favorite? Better than garmin 965 why?

[@JagorKiflan]

@@helderpaixao8064 I'm in same boat with you :)). It doesn't make sense the reason he likes pace pro more than 965 just because the amoled, watchface (hello connect IQ) & accuracy. If the reason was based on value for money or the features that he really need, maybe it does make sense.

[@irfanhakimi2721]

park, i whether to choose fr165 or coros

[@rayperkperk]

Didn't hear any hints of Garmin Instinct 3 or 3X this coming year. It may be the MIP display that Garmin keeps till the very end before totally ditching it for an all AMOLED line up. What do you guys think?

[@matthiaswuest7271]

Good question, I can't imagine Garmin going AMOLED for the instinct (ever) -- the question remains whether the demand exists for an updated version with the new solar panel and maybe mapping. I'd wager there is

[@carterlatham1371]

@@matthiaswuest7271 Instinct 3 has been leaked in EU markets and might be launched at CES in a few days time. No amoled screen at this time and no X model yet.

[@user-ve9tu5rv6e]

@@carterlatham1371whoops

[@JTMinnesota]

Skip to 1:04:43 for the Enduro 3

[@DesFit]

There’s convenient chapter markers in the video description for all the watches 👍

[@JTMinnesota]

@DesFit Right on!

[@smothyism]

Thank you for a great video, got a epix gen 2 sapphire titanium for €500 absolutely beautiful looking watch. Wear it with Always on display looks incredible. Am looking forward to seeing the forerunner 975 out of curiosity. But think they got it 98 percent right with the premium epix. The only thing missing is cellular. You have given me the impression that the future of smartwatches is having, alexa or AI on your wrist and being able to ask it anything and getting an answer or a map route.

[@josepimentamarques415]

Thank you for this very good Summary … I Wander of the Epix Gen 2 still a Go in 2025 ? Should I wait ?

[@BippityBoppity99]

re: hrm fit vs "give us an optical arm band" - the HRM fit wins every time because for me, at least, I deal with cadence lock happening on any type of optical heart rate sensor on my wrist or arm (I've tried a few) when I work out in the cooler temps. That's never a problem with the chest straps, and having one that can clip to my sports bra is WAY better than having another thing constricting around my ribcage.

[@radoslavstoev4550]

Waiting for the Pace Pro to drop in Bulgaria and in the meantime trying to sell my Pace 3.

[@suntzuthesecond]

As a Suunto Ocean owner and freediver, I find it's freediving features to be a little basic even compared to some other Suunto dive computers. Yet for the price, style points, and that gorgeous AMOLED screen, I'm sold. At least until I learn to outgrow that 60m depth limit. It's not like I wasn't aware of most of it's shortcomings when I picked it up.

[@jonathantimm4645]

I loved the Pixel Watch 3 but it needs to be bigger and rugged looking and needs dual band gps. I currently deciding on keeping either the Fenix 8 or Trex 3.

[@ponderingfox]

The laughing in the background about Apple doubling its battery life, lol.

[@Grantmi1_trailrun]

It’s funny to hear more about wanting a flashlight. I have the enduro 2 and I use the flashlight extensively.

[@frankluttels294]

For 2025, can we expect a Garmin Venu 3 SQ? Thanks for all the info again guys.

[@richxps]

Omg it feels like you guys just did this .. time goes by to fast 😢…

[@georgesoto5436]

Great video, interesting conversation, I’m still holding out for the next forerunner 975?

[@eugenejabouin6635]

Hi thanks for the review, 😊what a good watch that will work on iPhone ? (Not the APPLE one)

[@rocfella]

fitbit charge 6 still best bang for buck when it comes down to health tracking and basic smart watch needs

[@ivangoldberger289]

Hello guys. I like you both.

[@DesFit]

Thanks!

[@ivangoldberger289]

​@@DesFitFor me Garmin Enduro 3 is winner all of Times.

[@DesFit]

Glad you enjoy your watch!

[@ivangoldberger289]

@DesFit Im impressed.

[@tommanseau6277]

Google finally delivered. My phone carrier is currently running a buy one get one Pixel Watch 3 promotion, which is a no brainer if it fits your needs. It fits mine. YMMV. But 2024 was a good year for Google hardware.

[@radewhp]

I'm more into trail running this year, if only Coros Pace Pro has a Climb Pro alike would be great. Any chance for future inside update? 😅

[@trailzrock2]

Ray and Des. You guys should get one of those companies to make a watch brand for you. Like the Suunto DC edition. And don't forget to have them add ANT+ That and good maps it's what's keeping me staying with Garmin. That and Music with youtube and spotify and damn. I don't think anyone is catching Garmin yet.

[@DesFit]

As much as it would be cool to have a custom watch, that unfortunately gets into the biased territory with a brand

[@trailzrock2]

@DesFit very true. Maybe just have one on paper 👍😀 thanks for all your reviews throughout the years.

[@daryljump1768]

To avoid the conflict of interest Teresa, you could go for a collab with Athletic Breeing or something like that. 😊

[@emonty62]

What do you recommend for Mountain biking and hiking?

[@Golfexpertbelieveme]

I’ve never watched so many videos about watches in my entire life and I’m still so confused on what I should get. What should I get? I do like Apple cause that is what I have most experience with but should I try something else?

[@marknewman3360]

Summed up my feeling about form factor differences between Google and Garmin / Samsung / Coros

[@jaimealonsocardin2143]

Great review. For me garmin fenix should improve a few things considering this hight prices. Improve navigation and mapping speed , add esim . Also 51mm case cant have screen size than 47mm. Should have 1.5 inches.

[@tsprks]

Glad you guys took Garmin yo task on their current direction with Fenix, increasing the price like they did with such trivial additions is just not called for.

[@KrystianWlr]

I'm a Garmin guy, but I'm confused with their offer. Some recommendations guide (not necessarily Garmin related) would be much appreciated

[@xp_crow8112]

Torn between Fenix 51mm solar or amoled or enduro. Im currently rocking the instinct 2x and lasts me the full 28 days. Im a military personel and will need a reliable watch. Any suggestions on the 3?

[@tothmatyas2177]

Thank you for this video, Is there a way to make a video, that compares the accuracy of the same watches being worn "regularly" and "upside down" on the wrist (i.e. the sensor is on the underside of the forearm), If possible I'd like to see it with the galaxy watch 7 test included. Thank you all for the hardwork.

[@xumartbiurrarenavertiz]

Which watch do you recommend for running, trail and trekking? Thank you very much

[@brum293]

Forerunner 165, 265 or 965 depending on budget and needs.

[@peterullinger2814]

Jeez, Jays voice is something in this video.

[@grllaspeak]

Samsung and Apple should start using carbon silicone batteries. Samsung and Apple should find a way to integrate the flashlights to the front of the watch like Garmin. Garmin definitely needs to go LTE forget about complementing Apple users and grab the android user platform. The Garmin Enduro definitely needs LTE. Samsung should definitely focus their efforts and money into the software of their watches if they took the galaxy watch 5pro ti and make it an ultra watch would be a game changer. My last Garmin was an Enduro 2 but went to AWU for more smart watch features. Thanks again

[@_J.F_]

I am a Garmin fan, and a Fenix fan, but my loyalty stops with the Fenix 8 just because I do not want to be paying a lot of extra money for features (diving, speaker and microphone) that I not just don't need but actually don't want either. Thankfully I am not in need of an upgrade just now, currently using a Fenix 7 PRO, but when it is time to look for a new watch I will not be looking at the Fenix 8 unless they undo the in my mind mistake they made with the Fenix 8. When the time comes to upgrade I will be looking at what Garmin does with the Enduro series, or if need be I think I might even look at Suunto watch.

[@phaze1844]

I love this part of the year. Between the Pixel Watch 3 and the Galaxy Watch Ultra, which is the better fitness tracker/which is more accurate at keeping track of your fitness?

[@DesFit]

Pixel Watch 3

[@phaze1844]

@ thank you for the response. Happy holidays

[@Grantmi1_trailrun]

Those sennheiser earbuds will be my next.

[@ricardomorgan1418]

Nice "The Rock theme" voice Ray. Is it a firmware upgrade or a widget?

[@TerryJamesCole]

It took for this to find out how the ultra 2 is holding up durability wise!

[@dallas88b]

If your thinking of buying the Garmin Epix Pro Sapphire (I just purchased one on sale last week) be aware that the alarm is VERY QUIET and there is no way to increase the volume. I have absolutely no problem sleeping thru the alarm and the vibration is inadequate to wake me. Disappointing. It's ok as alarm in quiet environments if I am awake.

[@hammer8828]

yeah finally

[@DesFit]

🤙

[@KoenMiseur]

Still interested in the Fenix E, where I can buy the Fenix with my Eco vouchers the difference between the Epix Gen 2 is only €50 and it's almost sold out!

[@brittonknaphus1425]

Coros pace pro or suunto race, or something else?