Garmin Epix 2 Review After 8 Months | Fenix 7, Forerunner 955, Enduro 2 & Apple Watch 7 Comparisons

We were very taken with the Garmin Epix 2 from the moment we turned it on and got a look at its bright AMOLED screen, which is considerable upgrade on the displays on Garmin’s other top watches like the Fenix 7 and Forerunner 955.
Since our original review in early January, the Garmin Epix 2 has becomes Nick's main running watch, and in this video he gives his long-term verdict on the watch, discusses the new features that have arrived on it since launch, and compares it to four of its top competitors.
Check out our original multi-tester review of the Garmin Epix 2 here: • Garmin Epix 2 Review: ...
JUMP STRAIGHT IN:
00:00​​​​ - Intro
00:50 - Design & Key Features
04:54 - Key Features At Launch
05:31 - New Features
07:35 - Battery Life
09:49 - GPS & HR Accuracy
12:50 - Maps & Navigation
13:48 - Smart Features
14:54 - Garmin Epix 2 vs Garmin Fenix 7
16:19 - Garmin Epix 2 vs Garmin Forerunner 955
17:33 - Garmin Epix 2 vs Garmin Enduro 2
18:41 - Garmin Epix 2 vs Apple Watch 7
20:39 - Verdict
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Apple Watch Series 7 Running Review - • Apple Watch Series 7 R...
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Garmin Fenix 7 vs Epix 2: • Garmin Fenix 7 vs Epix...
Garmin Fenix 7 vs Epix 2 vs Apple Watch Series 7: • Garmin Fenix 7 vs Appl...

[@mikephillips5483]

My favorite part of the review was the subtle flex near the end to show off that 72 VO2 max. ;)

[@zselatyne]

12:30 - VO2max is 73... I stopped the video there. :D

[@cnw-jd9tt]

@@zselatyne better then mine lol

[@boyanbc]

​@@zselatyne it makes me stop using Garmin watches or ever track my VO2 😭😭😭

[@LGTVQHD]

Mine is 72 and I don't even do cardio as such, just eat clean(mostly) and strength training.

[@arnarn4112]

Probably the best Epix 2 review I've seen 👍 comprehensive and nice to see honest take on the practical differences of the different watches. Most reviews I've seen are very vague on the differences.

[@markhollidge8514]

Just wanted to thank you for taking the time to provide such an in-depth review. I'm more likely to eat a marathon than run one, but I really appreciated all the comparisons. 👏👏👏

[@TheRunTesters]

Thanks!

[@marcorenk2554]

Fantastic review. The best I've seen so far. Especially the outdoor screen comparison, the GPS comparison and the real runner battery life is unparalleled on any other channel. Keep up the good work. Thumbs up for that!

[@TheRunTesters]

Thanks!

[@Ghimlioak]

As I’m a trail runner beginning to run 60 and soon 80k my Watch choice is the Fenix 7x Solar. I had the previous model and I was satisfied.

[@davidrogers5443]

Got the epix 2 about 2 months ago coming from an Apple Watch. I absolutely love it and can’t wait for the training readiness and morning report to be officially released to make it even better … great review 👍

[@nokrome]

Great analysis. Really answered a lot of questions I had. I’m balancing between the 955 and the Epix 2, but might choose the prior and wait for the battery management to get better in a future Epix release in a few years.

[@FPShkED]

The battery on my epix 2 is fantastic!

[@williamkterrell]

Wonderful review thanks I bought the Epic 2 due to screen, Thanks

[@thebankersson3076]

Thanks great review 👍

[@locke1402]

Nice review, liked that you did multiple useful comparisons also. A bit smaller form factor on this or the 965 and I'd be sold...

[@Cenot4ph]

I'll be looking to get this potentially later this year primarily for weight based training, solid review

[@nealprice1813]

I love the videos, it's fun to geek out on the new gear. That being said, for years I used Garmin. It works, it's good but way too expensive. Coros is all I use now, everything that Garmin has, Coros already has and from my experience is the best watch on the market, best battery, best functions and best value, hands down.

[@johnpuchalski1369]

Thanks for the review. What has better heart rate accuracy 955 or epix?

[@steveb6174]

Fantastic review largely down to the presenter who has a great screen persona and comes across as an honest and humble dude unlike a lot of presenters who either try an impress/confuse you with their tech knowledge and/or slipping in how the watch performed on their 'relaxing' three continent run before breakfast! This dude just told it as it is in layman's terms and gave his honest opinion. Not sure what his job is but he's so trustworthy that I think he'd be able to sell snow to eskimos. Great job on the review!

[@TheRunTesters]

Thanks very much!

[@zselatyne]

Nice review. I bought a fenix 7s (after fenix 3), because I wanted to wear it all the time and it is easier when you have a smaller and lighter watch. On the other hand it looks good and it costs as the FR955 (which was introduced later). This 42mm size is optimal for running and with a nylon strap it is elegant.

[@eljeffe58]

Viewing this video with my Enduro 2 on. Brightness set to 90%. I really love the watch. Epix 2 is tempting but will stay as I am.

[@GoandLove]

I’m seriously torn between Enduro2 and the Epix2 🥹

[@milanpintar]

I wear both the apple watch 7 and epix 2 at the same time day and night, I use the ECG for the apple watch but otherwise, the epix 2 has everything else covered. A velcro strap on the epix 2 has made it even more comfortable and made the HR more accurate.

[@P.I.D.27]

How you compare metrics like HR measure ? If you run , sleep or doing some other activities?

[@vivekbhatnagar8880]

I wear both Epix 2 and Apple Watch LTE while cycling. All Heath metrics taken care by Epix and Apple Watch takes care of Phone Connectivity LTE and Music / Spotify. The integration of Spotify on Apple is far better than Garmin. So yes, leave the phone behind and just wear the two watches and use a headset which actively pairs with 2 devices, Jabra 85t does the job for me.

[@Shawn-ky2tw]

I never understood the use of the ECG unless you have known heart problems, otherwise it's just looking at a ECG graph for nothing...

[@tomaspuskas950]

Question is - how do you use your watch - for checking time, having all healthy stats and for tracking workouts (outside), then display of Fenixes make much more sense. If you wanna use it as smart watch, then yeah - Epix 2 or event much more smart Apple Watch is your choice.

[@movdqa]

Trying to decide between Epix 2, Forerunner 965, Fenix 7 from a Fenix 5+. I do not like the lower screen lip on the 965. I have not looked at the Epix 2 before but the brighter screen is really attractive as you have a choice of battery life vs readability. I always have to use the backlight on my Fenix. It sounds like you prefer the Epix 2 over all of the other options.

[@sverkerolofsson7123]

What nylon band are you using for the Epix 2? Have you tried different brands?

[@RickRobinsonDonnellan]

Thanks for this review. I've just bought the Epix 2 for my runner wife based on this review. It is currently 40% off in Australia (Garmin website) so I saved $700 AUD, which brought it right in the absolute bargain territory. Don't tell the missus, I wanna let her think she's worth more haha (she is, but a bargain is a bargain!)

[@g4rymw110]

Upgrading from the forerunner 245 very soon, 955 , Fenix 7 standard or the Epix gen 2 47mm , does the fenix or epix move down your wrist when running due to weight or do you have to really strap it tight , torn between all 3 on what to choose

[@fromia1]

I would like to know which watch face you used? Would be greatly appreciated!

[@milfern]

Waiting for the Epix 2X

[@mohammetje]

Am I correct that those maps you showed in the video are only available on the Sapphire (Titanium, dual band gps) edition of the Epix 2, not on the Standard Edition (without dual band gps)?

[@justinhongphotography]

Would you trust the epix to last for a 100 miler? Say around 30 hours of gps with navigation? I haven’t seen many videos with navigation on and I am looking for something that can hold up to poorly marked hundreds that are prevalent in my area. Thank you for any feedback!

[@dom_leary]

I’m literally waiting for a 955 non-solar to be delivered in the next hour. I did really umm and ahh over these two but ultimately an extra £420 for a better screen but slightly compromised battery didn’t seem good value. I have to say I was surprised at how light the Epix feels in hand but I’m not sure it’s as elegant as people suggest - it’s still a plastic body sandwiched between titanium. I also had a feeling I might miss some of the black on white displays which I think are changed to white on black on the epix to save power (fewer lit pixels) - like everything has to be in ‘dark mode’ on PC/Phone.

[@peakproofuk]

Great thorough review Nick. One thing I think needs calling out is how bad Garmin Pay is - basically neglected by Garmin for years - it’s only ever supported Santander (and a few small banks). If you are with any other major bank, you’re out of luck.

[@TheRunTesters]

Thanks, and yes that is true. It’s something that needs a lot of work and there doesn’t seem to be much momentum behind it!

[@rob8939]

If your in the UK take a look at Curve which works with Garmin Pay. Works with most UK bank and cards and whilst maybe not ideal it means you can use them all with Garmin Pay. I’ve had no issues and comes in very handy when you only have the watch on you.

[@carl_weatherzzz7386]

Chase bank works with them now. Provided, Chase tend to be scumbags, so pick your poison I guess.

[@rob_langer]

Just got the enduro 2, I love doing long through hikes and do Ironman and I worry about the epix 2 not being able to make it. Plus most of the time when done don’t want to worry about charging my watch like an Apple Watch haha

[@jimbo5603]

The Enduro is massive :O

[@mikehatch83]

Could you add a link to the nylon bands you are using? Also -- would you be willing to share where one can get the background with the topo graphic? Thx for a great video!

[@TheRunTesters]

Thanks! The nylon strap was from eBay and it seems to change what's available depending on listings, but if you search 'garmin nylon strap epix' or similar it pops up. The watch face is just one of Garmin's default options on the watch

[@minkmoink]

Hi How's the bezel holding up ??

[@eulogyforadream]

Nice review as always. The screen on the Epix looks beautiful. I really don't get the allure of long battery life. I charge my watch when I take a shower. I've never had an issue with my watch battery dying on my Forerunner 245. It seems like the only people should care about a "super battery" is if you run ultras.

[@dom_leary]

I don’t need Enduro battery life but with my three year old 245, if I go out for a 1.5 hour run with music (which is usual for me) then I’m down to less than 50% battery which means I have to charge it before the next run. This means I wouldn’t be able to run a marathon with music and also means I’m putting more charge cycles into it, which depletes the battery further. Ideally I’d like to keep a watch for two upgrade cycles, so I’m thinking about where the watch will be in a few years. Just my 2 cents.

[@eulogyforadream]

@@dom_leary I don't have the music version but my 2 year old 245 has around 65% battery left after a marathon.

[@dom_leary]

@@eulogyforadream I’m not saying you don’t and glad it’s still going strong for you. I’m simply pointing out there are other use cases for which the battery makes a difference, and longevity is one of them (plus music burns battery at a prodigious rate! 😂 )

[@woodybailey]

You must take some very long showers!. The beauty and ease of a watch with long battery life is hard to move away from. I chose the Fenix 7 sapphire solar with the expectation that it should keep me happy until the technology Garmin just patented (advanced solar collection via pixel) will bring the marriage of the Epix screen with the Instinct Solar 2 battery life. I’m also hopeful they’ll dial down the thickness as well. They’re on the right track to be sure, but until then, I’ll just take normal length showers :).

[@eulogyforadream]

@@woodybailey Ha. I wish I had time to take longer showers. I did a 17 mile long run yesterday. My 245 went from 70% to fully charged in a short period of time.

[@TANK123cs]

Hi ive just bought this watch and done a couple of test runs, when comparing the watch to starva on my iphone 14 im finding that im get about 0.2/0.3 miles drop off per mile on the watch compared to the phone and also a slower pace, any ideas why this is?

[@mohamedhammazkhaleel]

Whats the running app showed on apple watch 19:30

[@Mmoselle1983]

I wish they would get a little more creative with the watch faces. For having such a beautiful AMOLED screen, there’s only like 3 decent faces. The Connect IQ store has a few nice ones, but they kill your battery. I’d love to see more digital watch faces like the one they just added. But it doesn’t allow you to edit data fields. Is there any way to send suggestions to Garmin? If anyone knows anything or has a link, please share.

[@bonn1771]

have an old fenix3 still kicking it but looking at the epic2 pro down the road

[@sigurdueland5194]

Is there a sport watch which includes Audible?

[@yesitz_daisy]

Do you prefer running with a nylon or a silicon band? I’ve been looking at the nylon bands after your review of the enduro 2 when you said they were a bit lighter.

[@TheRunTesters]

Both are fine for running, the nylon ones I find a little more comfortable in general (though wet for 20mins after a shower), but not worth the price of an official Garmin one.

[@richmond411]

I don't get it - didn't you say, it's still in perfect shape after 8 months? To me it looks pretty beaten up, like the outer edge on the bezel is silverish almost everywhere (e.g. 3:54). Also there seem to be scratches next to the Back/Lap font as well as on the back side. Is this just the lighting?

[@davidlynch9049]

Nice review, but I guess England gets some sort of added Satellite choice, the selection you made is not available to North America or here in Germany. Is that the latest beta software you are using that includes that choice? Latest firmware standard is 8.3 and it's not available .

[@TheRunTesters]

Yep it’s on the beta software, you can sign up for that on the Garmin connect website, but rolling out generally soon I think.

[@CraigEggleton]

This watch is now $449 to $599 with Black Friday sales. Incredible value for sure.

[@jamesharris1305]

Am I right in thinking that some of the added features are only available on the Beta software program?

[@TheRunTesters]

Yep for now, all on the way soon

[@Kylek323]

They need an epix 2s, these things are gigantic

[@andrewgibson2145]

I have just purchased a Epix 2 (waiting on delivery) as it was on sale, upgrading from an older 935. But have been using an Apple Watch 7 for the last 12 months. And it is just so poor, I really miss the proper training stats that Connect provides so looking to the new Readiness and Stamina etc. and not changing every 18 hours. 😂. Great review!

[@stevephla]

If only we could get the stamina of the Fenix 7x solar with an AMOLED display. If not for ultras, I'd probably have gone epix in stead of the 7x. Beautiful piece of kit.

[@Shawn-ky2tw]

Totally agree. I really don't understand why Garmin hasn't made a larger OLED model. They have so many variants and different models. I can guarantee that a 7X size OLED would sell like hotcakes.

[@naj114]

Upgrading from a Garmin 245 to this, picked it up for £599 from John Lewis, cracking price!

[@ZeRo-22-]

Should be exciting to see how Apple approaches the AW this year, especially with the price. If it’s cheaper than the Epix but gets similar battery life, it should make for an interesting comparison.

[@georgemarc694]

Did you get Training Readiness and HRV Status through a normal software update or did you switch to beta software? I'm asking this because on my Fenix7X I haven't got any of these new features yet ((((

[@TheRunTesters]

It’s through the beta update system, can sign up on Garmin Connect website, or wait for full release which should be pretty soon

[@Shawn-ky2tw]

I am sure you got the features now that 9.33/36 is released now.

[@Northern_Rockhopper]

Is it possible to upload GPX routes onto the watch and navigate from them like you can on your phone?

[@TheRunTesters]

Yep you can, Garmin’s navigation features are excellent

[@esprit009]

Definitely you can load a GPX route (G call them Courses), but I wouldn't want to rely on such a small screen when leading 20 other walkers but prefer to navigate with an Oregon or 66S with Birdseye.

[@jeffparker641]

What is the velcro watch strap you are using on the EPIX 2?

[@TheRunTesters]

It’s just a nylon strap off ebay, some nice ones on there for less than a tenner

[@lanternofthegreen]

I normally watch the videos on 1.25x but here I had to slow it down :D Good job on having a fast speaking face :D

[@Dr.RBZultrarunningnewbie]

Would the epic stay charged long enough for a 100 mile Ultra? I'm going to participate in one for the first time in the Spring so I'm interested in finding a Garmin watch with long battery power. Feedback appreciated 👍

[@aajfilm]

Think a Fenix solar is probably you best bet. Probably don’t want to have to worry about the battery

[@yoditonugrahacky765]

So Forerunner 955 or Huawei GT 3 Pro? 😅

[@georgeoneal7256]

Is Garmin going to release an Epix 3 in January 2023? I want to get an Epix but I don't know if I should just wait a few more months.

[@Shawn-ky2tw]

I would not expect an Epix 3 until Q3 of next year. Garmin doesn't really upgrade models on a yearly basis I believe.

[@HazimMohammed-bj9kq]

Pro tip get the hook and loop nylon strap aka abaneen brand which will make the epix weight almost as same as venu

[@HAMDIMAHMOOD]

I like the band 2 color i have one and my watch tactix 7 pro ballistic edition

[@danielvargo8369]

Are u still using the epix gen 2 and if so have you had any issues with it at all

[@TheRunTesters]

Hey it's back on the wrist now after testing some other watches. Still top dog for me

[@adrianvladimirov]

Does your screen flicker when dimmed on the Epix? I've went through a rabbit hole for this...I see it with my eyes but it's apparently hard for everyone else to notice it. I even went to the local Garmin dealer and their unit had the same screen flicker when dimmed. As soon as I trigger the wrist gesture everything flashes and it's once again crisp and beautiful, but when dimmed it could be easily seen (for me) that there's a problem. I hope that would be solved with a future software update, but I don't hold my breath about that. Actually, the easiest to notice it is when you have Apple Watch 6/7 next to the Epix and both screens are dimmed. Please, try it out and let me know.

[@toshka0079]

Yes, unfortunately it flickers, and on some third-party dials it is noticeably even stronger I have this second epix, I bought white titanium and gave it away, there was a strong flicker, I bought black titanium, the same situation... Honestly, I already thought this watch was defective

[@adrianvladimirov]

@@toshka0079, seems like they are all defective. I wonder when will Garmin realize there's an issue and work on it. Have you submitted inquiry to Garmin Support? The more people flag this issue, the sooner we can get it sorted out either with an update or a replacement.

[@os2171]

So Fenix is overkill? If you’re not ultrarunner or do multi day week adventure?

[@Shawn-ky2tw]

Definitely not overkill. It can be for people who appreciate high end materials and a more rugged watch for their activity tracking.

[@BrorBrurberg]

I'm a mountain biker, and actually switched back to an Apple Watch after a year of using a Fenix 6 Sapphire. I miss the battery, bodybattery and stress measurements, but in general the smartwatch part of the Apple Watch fits my life better. And a major thing for me is the fall detection that auto calls my countrys equivalent of 911 in case of a fall on my bike. The Fenix 6 do not support incident detection during mountain biking, making it a total dealbreaker for me and my life 😅

[@savagedriver1967]

As a Garmin user, I have a question for you. I personally find the "smart" functionality of Garmin watches absolutely fine - what extra functionality does the Apple watch have to make it the better smartwatch?

[@piotrku...]

Does it support external sensors, cadence or power meter?

[@mjowsey]

The only question now is ... when is the 8 out so that we can get this half-price???

[@brucelin5842]

What about ultra 2?

[@jaykana7677]

Water resistant?

[@thepatternforms859]

What watch face is this your using???

[@BalintGulyas]

This blue is an inbuilt one.

[@TheRunTesters]

All of the ones in the video are inbuilt Garmin ones yep

[@sigurdueland5194]

I would like Audible as well as Spotify om a watch

[@adimperial]

I’m going from Epix 2 to Instinct Crossover Solar. Yes I know I’m crazy

[@surreytrailgoat5469]

do you think the heart rate measurement is better than the apple watch. I really like the Epix but also difficult to give up the apple watch

[@TheRunTesters]

I’d say the optical HR is probably a little better on the Apple Watch, smaller watches tend to get better readings in my experience. But I’d still use a chest strap with both myself

[@GOLFADDICT65]

what about the golfing features.....Epix is way better than the Apple....question is do I go Epix or Approach s70 as my daily watch for everything including golf... cheers from Canada

[@notall1196]

LMAO at these prices, i'll stick to my old Vivoactive 3 music thank you very much.

[@Shawn-ky2tw]

Why are you LMAO on prices? That's like laughing at the prices of a Rolex because you can buy a cheaper Timex. Choose your tier vs LMAO and snubbing because it's too expensive for you...LMAO

[@raniol]

maybe (just maybe) it is worth mentioning, that you can use apple watches only with iphones

[@mjowsey]

Just put it on the charger when you're in the shower then you never have to think about it

[@TheSwayzeTrain]

The Garmin nylon bands are ludicrously overpriced. 250-300 euros for a band? Absolutely mental.

[@ChrisUK70]

Scratched my bezel a few time so annoying

[@theLagune]

Meh that's a beta firmware you are reviewing

[@TheRunTesters]

Yep, of features I’ve tested on other watches on their way to the Epix

[@nguyenthuyen3985]

Heart rate isn’t as accurate as Apple Watch Ultra

[@joereyn3945]

The Epix blows for running. I'm not in Britain. I'm in South Carolina. And you can't see the numbers in the sunlight. Crap. Sending back.

[@GazianoOutdoors]

Paid £375 for this watch brand new from a well known uk jewellery company, its still on sale at that price now , bargain

[@samstokes96]

Is this H samuel? Also how are you finding the watch?

[@GazianoOutdoors]

@stokesymancity8 yeah it is , only just charged it , but happy with the deal 👍

[@samstokes96]

@@GazianoOutdoors just ordered myself. Great price! Let me know how you find it

[@GazianoOutdoors]

@samstokes96 nice one 👍 will do , all the best with it 👍

[@GRIT_Productions]

Same ❤

[@contactbryans]

A lot of good information, but you really need to slow down and enunciate your words. I had to turn on CC, and even then I had to constantly back up and read the CC because you mumble and talk over yourself so much. You have the potential to be really good, but you have to present your information in a way that we can understand it.