Garmin Epix Pro After 10 Months Hiking - Worth the Upgrade?

[@danscoular]

I’ve used the Epix 51mm for the past four months: the Winter mountaineering season plus mountain rescue callouts, and it’s been very good indeed. It has changed the way I’ve used mapping on a watch, because the detail and resolution is so much better on the Epix. Gesture mode is rarely a problem, and I’m getting the same battery performance as my Fenix watches, which I’ve used for 7 years. I do sometimes miss MIP, but rarely, and solar has never had a noticeable effect on battery drain.

[@misarthim6538]

I have the 47mm Epix Pro and it's damn near perfection. The fast charging and the flashlight are the stars imho. I upgraded from F7 SS and didn't regret the investment one bit.

[@edgarp66]

Wrist gesture on… AOD off. 30 day battery. This watch is amazing. Came from fenix 7 solar (talk about gimmick). I really only upgraded just for the display and size. Love it!

[@Hikingguy]

Great to hear, and yea, my last Fenix was the 6 solar and the whole solar thing wasn't that great.

[@massimoalexander]

Nice review. It's quite similar to my Huawei Ultimate Watch battery life under AOD mode, about 7 days per full charge.

[@rpf1965]

Great video! I still prefer the Fenix due to the always on display during navigation and sports.

[@citizenofheaven9556]

I have Fenix Pro Saphire solar and I love it. Great battery life. I have zero issues in direct sun light. For trail maps and overall functionality it does what I want it to do. I use it for some hiking. Mostly golf. No problem with the display.

[@Mdogbrown]

Do you have a lot of glare from the sapphire lens?

[@austinslater4773]

I love the amoled but ended up going back to MIP. I just like it during non activities better as it’s always on and doesn’t get super bright for everyone to see. I love both though and if I had the epix pro I’d love it too. If I had money I’d just have both and rotate lol

[@v5745]

Amoled is also always on

[@robhunt8378]

@@v5745 Some people don't like that it emits its own light. And of course Amoled always-on destroys battery life.

[@Hikingguy]

you can turn off "always on" so it wakes on glance

[@v5745]

@@robhunt8378 does not destroy you're still getting around a week including gps sessions. Regarding the light you have a dwie options: lowering screen brightness to minimum, enabling DND (that is it turns on only when key is pressed, enabling activation on gesture, enabling red, green or orange). MIPS screen will be dead in a year or two almost nobody wants them, so due to market demand also garmjn will abandon them in the nearest future

[@robhunt8378]

@@v5745 Battery life is still good in a big watch like the Epix but it absolutely destroys battery life as you go from 16 days to just 6 from always-on alone. That's nearly a third runtime gone. Just for showing the time. Which if I'm not crazy it's a nice thing for a watch to do. Agree Garmin will abandon MIP because a watch that will wear out in four years instead of nine is much better for the bottom line. Plenty of people still use "ancient" watches like the 235 and Garmin can't have that anymore.

[@ChemistNo7]

I still see reasons for both. Epic clearly has the nicer display, particularly with maps. But as you mostly spoke about it's benefits, I'll talk about those of MIPS display then. 1) The Fenix has the display always on, that certainly is not calculated in at Garmin's max. runtime (that the Epix has a few days more - this is likely only true if you rarely check the time) 2) For permanently on navigation I still prefer MIPS - being it for complicated terrain hikes or on the bike. In ~20 hours of permanently having the map on the screen while hiking it used about 50% - which is a hole lot of "display on". With AMOLED this would not work. In the end, of course, it comes down to personal preference and use case.

[@Hikingguy]

Yea everyone has their preference. I can tell you from testing the F7 and Epix side by side every day for a month or so, I always found myself going for the Epix because it was much easier to see and I didn't have to do the "MIP tilt" to see the screen correctly. When I lift the Epix, I see the screen, when it's down and I'm not looking at it, the screen is off, and it doesn't matter.

[@mikedriver7197]

Ditto. We'll also add that the amoled display needs to be attached to a human to work. It's by design, and prevents display burn in (wonder if that's still a thing), and saves batteries, but it's something to consider if you mount your watch "not on your body".

[@AntiDEDok]

Burn in topic is the one wich is not being mentioned too often. Modern TV panels and phones still struggle from that. I can't see a way it won't happen to this overpriced watches too. I'm really interested in seeing burn in tests by the way.

[@robhunt8378]

​@@AntiDEDok Probably won't be widespread since there are measures in place to prevent it (dimming, no white screens etc). Of course it's those measures that make Amoled so annoying but hey.

[@skf957]

@@mikedriver7197My Epix Sapphire Pro 51mm display still "comes on" when it's off my wrist. I have it in "tilt your wrist to make the display come on". The sensors shut down when it's off of my wrist, but the display still works. Or have I misunderstood the point you were making? Interested to know whichever way, as I've had my watch for about a month and so far at least I'm pretty pleased with it. But would be interested in any "features"...

[@billbeyatte]

Good review. Thanks

[@IustinPop]

I'm still rocking a Fenix, but really thinking of trying an Epix for the next generation, whenever that comes. The increased resolution and detail really seem good.

[@julioMartinez-fu9oy]

Nice review, I recognize your voice right away, I enjoy your hiking videos, and it makes sense that you will use and rely on a watch like this one , most videos out there are informative but a review from a certified hiker makes all the difference. I do mountain bike and like you most times I’m by myself all the way out there but I only have my phone and most times I don’t have reception I got lucky to get back only because I remember the trees and some rocks on the trail, I been trying to decide on making an interesting on a watch like this one, and now I think I can make the purchase with confidence, thanks.

[@Hikingguy]

Thank you, appreciate it!

[@TheWatchRepairersPerspective]

Hello, I have been using EPIX 51mm for a couple of weeks and i really love the amoled screen on this watch. I find the GPS and maps is better than any of my previous versions. Just because of the screen upgrade - i really love the epix pro v2. The battery is very good. All of you looking for GARMIN, choose the GARMIN with SAPPHIRE. They are really worth the extra with the screen which is more durable and scratch resistant. It would not be so fun if you damaged your Garmin screen. That won't happen easily with Sapphire models. I have been using this Epix gen2 and i recommend it! Very nice review, Previous GARMIN watches i have used: Garmin Fenix 5x Sapphire Garmin Fenix 6 Pro Solar Garmin Fenix 7X Pro Sapphire Best regards,

[@Hikingguy]

Good to know, thanks for posting & agree

[@ted363636]

Tried Epix and still prefer Fenix for its more analog feel and no need for wrist gestures. Also I'm wearing 7s so 14 days of battery with solar vs 4 days on a smaller Epix is a huge difference. And no, I will never use a watch without AoD, it's not 2015 :)

[@KP-rz3gk]

Great video as usual. Thanks for that comparison.

[@Hikingguy]

thank you!

[@NickBEADG]

I love my Epix Pro 51mm. Well worth the money.

[@twwtb]

Great video. Thanks for biting the 1k bullet to provide this information. It is great to know what's available out there. For me, my needs are pretty basic: Gaia on my phone with my most recent previous phone for a backup and a paper map. I know how to check my pulse, but pretty much already know what it is before I check based on activity level. I have been living with myself for a fairly long time. Besides, what am I going to do differently once I know my heart rate? Those watch computers are pretty cool, but I can think of a lot of other ways to have a lot more fun with 1k.

[@xbalance]

I have the Garmin Instinct 2 Solar, and I like it. I need the smaller watch given my smaller frame. I am not sure I can justify a $1k watch, but maybe one day.

[@Hikingguy]

yea it's def a luxury and if I didn't hike so much I'm not sure I'd have one

[@EnigmaPhi23]

Thanks!

[@Hikingguy]

BIG BIG THANK YOU!!!!

[@hmr171]

I'm glad it is working out well for you as I had just ordered the 51mm Pro Sapphire a couple of days ago and am patiently waiting for it to arrive. This will be my first smartwatch of any kind as I have talked myself of needing one up until now and am someone who previously considered a stopwatch on a cheap Casio digital watch as sufficient. As a 58 year old casual hiker, I'm not concerned with all the fitness tracking, but really just wanted an easy way to track my mileage and elevation gain as well as GPS position without having to use dig my phone out of my bag.

[@garyh3228]

In same boat as you got my 51 pro 6 months and love it put the Rolex in the drawer

[@Hikingguy]

Yea it's definitely not an essential and very much a luxury, but I find myself enjoying all the aspects of it, from the biometric tracking to the ease of recording my hikes and looking at the data afterwards. Have fun with it!

[@campingalan]

Hello Hiking Guy, from Ouray Colorado! Thank you very much for your garmin watch update here. I am going through the thought process currently to determine what model of watch to get. I definitely need the health monitoring, well, for health monitoring hehehe. But, my dog and I are out in the backcountry a lot. So...I am trying to determine the size of the budget too hehehe. It is possible we relocate to southern AZ in a year. So...the smart thing would for me to just get an Instinct 2X and keep the extra bucks for putting my wife in a nicer house hehehe. But...the technologies in these Pro watches are incredible too! Safe hiking

[@Hikingguy]

Yea, just get an Instinct and use your phone for maps to save some $$$ - that would work

[@shus5787]

Ive just managed to buy this new in uk for £450. Around 600 bucks

[@commonmadeholy]

That’s a great deal! How so?

[@joaquinelectric1]

You can buy the enduro also with flashlight is almost same but screen resolution in the epix is better

[@MrDynamik1]

Thank you for this video. You answered all my questions. I'm a backpacker with a Fenix 6 pro and I'm debating replacing the battery or upgrading. I think it's time for an upgrade after 3 years with the Fenix. Even when new, I could barely make it through an entire day of backpacking and I always had to charge the battery after hiking with GPS all day.

[@chiwawahusky]

Thanks for a good and detailed content. I'm gonna buy Epix Pro Gen 2 but having a concern if it's really worth the price. Now I have the answer from you clip.

[@KennyChong]

I hate amoled screens on watches. As a current vivoactive 4s user, I find it sad that the vivoactive 5 has gone the amoled route. Would have been nice if Garmin kept the MIP screen on it for people who want it and they have the option of the Venu for amoled screens. I like the features of the Fenix and will definitely consider it for a future upgrade, provided it keeps the MIP screen.

Although it seems that the difference between 51mm and 47mm is not too big, I found the 51mm Epix too bulky on my slim wrist and more uncomfortable to wear (maybe it's also a matter of getting used to it). The 47 mm version, on the other hand, fits perfectly. But then the battery issue becomes more of an issue again, so I decided in favour of a Fenix...

[@Hikingguy]

Yea the 47mm is def more form fitting, even compared to the Apple Watch Ultra. I've just gotten used to the 51mm, probably from wearing these big monsters for so many years.

[@sharathvarghese2176]

Thank you

[@SquashPile]

Sold my 47mm Epix 2 Sapphire on Swappa like 7 months ago and bought the 51mm Pro. 47mm was just too small for my wrist and old eyes too. No regrets.

[@venelinbakalov5945]

I am with the 51mm for few weeks - it is amazing :) also, I am new to Garmin and I am quite happy with their eco system. It js really motivating how everything is in one place and you ki da feel rewarded for every activity that you do :) So far I mainly used it to track stuff that I am doi g but I haven't actually used it to follow a course. By any chance do you have some in depth video or tutorial on the part which you mentioned - for uploading courses, making points and so on?

[@Hikingguy]

Doing and updated one now, stay tuned, coming soon.

[@venelinbakalov5945]

@@Hikingguy nice, I will check it for sure, thanks!

[@venelinbakalov5945]

@@Hikingguy One thing I've been wondering about navigation on Garmin maps - how can you... make it know that there is a trail somewhere? From what I see it does a really good job for routes that it "knows" and are popular. But how can you make it learn a trail? E.g. right near my home there is a forest and a foot path through it. And it is not some bushy barely visible path, it is a wide nice trail. But when I try to ask Garmin to navigate me from one side of the forest to the other side it either goes through the road around it or just makes a straight line. The only thing I've though so far is if I walk through it and start making waypoints every 50-100 meters maybe that would work but I am not sure if it will "persist" the path in the database...

[@Hikingguy]

@@venelinbakalov5945 You can't create custom routable trails but you can record the track and just hike over it. You can also submit the trail to Open Street Maps and maybe Garmin will incorporate it later into their mapset. m - help.openstreetmap.org/questions/71497/how-to-add-trails-to-the-map

[@venelinbakalov5945]

@Hikingguy nice, I will try that, I already recorded one of those paths so I will try submitting it, thanks!

[@ROrneli]

the thing with the fenix is that the screen is always on., it bothers me that the screen turns off on the epix or the battery last a week.,

[@kevinkwmiller]

Great video. The first of yours I've seen and I was impressed! In your shots, you tend to show the watches either indoors, or under canopy. Can you comment on visibility of the Epic in direct bright sunlight? I've owned Fenix watches for many years and I live where it's very bright in the summer. I am tempted by all the amazing Epix reviews, but I'm also scared that what looks good in places where most of the reviewers shoot video looks washed out or reflective in super bright sunlight.

[@Hikingguy]

I find it looks great in bright sunlight, it looks great everywhere. It's similar to the Apple Watch experience. Overall I find it much easier to see than the MIP displays that almost always require a subtle twist and angling of the wrist to get the reflection right.

[@kevinkwmiller]

@@Hikingguy thanks for the reply! It's actually my iPhone experience that worries me. In very bright sunlight, I have a hard time seeing my iPhone, but can see my Fenix or Kindle very well.

[@Hikingguy]

@@kevinkwmiller ahh got it, guess it's differrent for everyone but from some reasearch the Epix is 1000 nits birghtness, and here are the nits for various phones: bit.ly/3Tz4MXp - overall i was skeptical when I did a side by side for a few months but found myself always looking at the Epix - the Fenix is nice in birght sunlight, but if not, it can be a problem

[@deantreloar]

I wore my Epix in full sun in the snow and it was brilliant, seriously. I had no problem seeing everything vividly with just a glance.

[@commonmadeholy]

Great video thanks and very helpful! I know you’ve covered elsewhere hiking with the AWU (+Footpath v Workoutdoors) but can I ask whether the general ease of use for mapping on the Epix is superior to the AWU? I am thinking about such issues as finding trails, loading them, speed of doing so etc. Does having the maps on Garmin built in make a big difference? Thanks 😊

[@Hikingguy]

Thanks for your support! And the main pain point with maps on the AWU is that you have to preload them when you have a connection. And then you usually are stuck to navigating a course that you've loaded as well. But once the maps are on the AWU, they are excellent and the processor on the AWU makes zoom and scroll the best. On the other hand, with the Garmin, the maps are all there, so you can just hike anywhere and refer to the maps to help navigate without having to do any prep. You can also navigate on the fly, so if you needed to bail out of a hike early because of a situation, you can do that all on the watch, totally offline. If you are okay doing a minute or two of work up front, the AWU maps are fine, especially if you have your phone with you as backup.

[@commonmadeholy]

@@Hikingguy thanks so much - what you have explained really clarifies the situation. The trouble with buying an expensive watch is that it’s a big expense if you find the watch doesn’t work as well as you had hoped. Here in the UK the return policies for many retailers (for Garmin) usually forbid returning the watch after using it. Thanks again for taking the time to answer my question and keep up the good work! 🙏

[@Hikingguy]

@@commonmadeholy Thank you and yea, if you're an Apple person the AWU is probably a safer bet because of the front-country benefits it offers. And when you go outdoors, you can definitely make it work.

[@commonmadeholy]

@@Hikingguy thanks again for your great advice! 👍

[@georgevadnais3516]

Verry good 👌😎

[@lyubengeorgiev1751]

I really love my standard Epix 2 (not even the sapphire version) and no need to change with the bigger 51 mm. Unfortunately, just the other day my buttons problems started...now I need to press multiple times the BACK button and it doesn't react most of the times. Called the Garmin dealer and they only offered me to pay around 280 USD to receive back-up watch without warranty or whatsoever. Up to my knowledge the only Garmin service center in Europe is located in UK and they don't do any repairs but just give you another watch. In cases like mine (when the warranty has just ended 2 months ago) you don't have any choice except finding non-authorized repair shop or directly buy new watch with 2 years warranty...basically Garmin forces you to buy the new model every 2 years at the latest just because of the warranty period.

[@Hikingguy]

Ugh that's disappointing. I've never experienced that before but I have heard of similar things happening to other people.

[@lyubengeorgiev1751]

@@Hikingguy Unfortunately it does happen pretty often with both Fenix and Epix models. Most of the time it’s something called “sticky/mushy buttons” and Garmin directly replaces the watch if it’s within the warranty period.

[@SouthernGuy82]

Good morning. I’ve heard nothing but bad reports about the outdoor maps+ . What’s your thoughts ? I sold my Fenix 7x Solar and I’m buying the Epix Gen 2 sapphire. I mainly going to use it for hunting so I won’t get lost in the woods.

[@Hikingguy]

The preloaded maps are good - I've been using Maps+ on and off and don't really find much better - will do a video on it and share what I found.

[@SouthernGuy82]

@@Hikingguy I would like to get it for the satellite Imagery do you think it’s worth it?

[@Doggodoggodoggodoggo]

Can you comment on how the display is always shining light? Unless you use gestures to wake and don't use always on display? These are what are deal breakers for me over the MIP display

[@Hikingguy]

For me the brightness is not a problem and is adjustable. The wake on glance works well and means you wait a half a second to see it. I find it works better than doing the adjustment to catch the light correctly with the MIP screens.

[@episode013]

@@Hikingguy half a second is OK for hiking but it's an eternity while running hard. So weird for Garmin to leave the fenix on mip while transitioning their forerunner line to Amoled. Oh well.

[@volcanicjapan]

Hi @Hikingguy, you mentioned that AllTrails maps can be sent to Garmin connect. However, what about activity tracking from an AllTrails perspective? Guessing I then would have to export my Garmin-recorded activity to AllTrails? The reason I ask is using Garmin devices before for cycling, thwy always required me to download new maps which eventually got to the point of running out of storage, forcing me to upgrade to a new device (then eventually rendering the device less useable for maps (and only useful for the route tracking), therefore if I decide to "make the switch" to a Garmin watch I want to ensure I can still use alltrails and not be required by Garmin to update local maps on watch. Also how are the altimeter, temperature tracking?

[@Hikingguy]

It will sync back to AllTrails from Garmin once you complete it - very easy with no map download - support.alltrails.com/hc/en-us/articles/360019246271-How-do-I-link-my-Garmin-Connect-account-to-AllTrails#:~:text='Pull%20completed%20activities%20from%20Garmin'&text=Syncing%20will%20be%20automatic%20once,automatically%20be%20imported%20into%20AllTrails.

[@Indik47]

AMOLED screen is better unless you detach it from your wrist (i.e. as a bike computer). And I wouldn't say I like wrist gestures while running. Fenix is still the way to go for those who navigate in multisport activities.

[@Hikingguy]

Yea for hiking simply lifting your arm to look at the watch isn't a big deal and doesn't require any adjustment to get the MIP to reflect properly.

[@Indik47]

@@Hikingguy Yeah, hiking is not very demanding on modern nav devices. The only limiting factor is the battery and waterproofness. I even hiked for a week with Forerunner which displays a breadcrumb trail (no map at all).

[@JETLFC]

What powerbank are you using? thanks. I bought the 47mm epix pro sapphire 6 weeks ago. Very pleased with the watch. Is my 1st activity watch.

[@Hikingguy]

this guy - amzn.to/3Ivj8Sk - and glad to hear you're enjoying your Epix, it amazes me what this watch can do

[@mikef.2951]

Can you do a video pro/con of both please. Size them up. I have been thinking about fenix solar now epix pro... whats the major difference?

[@Hikingguy]

I have this - kzbin.info/www/bejne/oKitnpSdrplsock - probably won't buy another Fenix - just don't have the $$$

[@sarahsundstrom1425]

I'm getting my first smartwatch and I am not techy! I don't really understand a lot of what you're saying haha but I am a long distance hiker and I'm really looking forward to hopefully somewhat figuring this watch out Do you have a beginner's video for this watch?

[@Hikingguy]

I don't have a beginners video but it's a great idea, will get it in the works.

[@sarahsundstrom1425]

@@Hikingguy thanks !🌻

[@JeanPaulOrlando]

Great feedback. Was looking at getting a Fenix, but now I am balancing that idea with possibly getting the Epix. Can you also do turn-by-turn on a road? For example, can I plug in an address and have it take me to the destination, say, like in a city or town that I am driving or walking in, or do I have to upload the location ahead of time from the app? Currently have an Instinct 2 Tactical Solar, which love it, but it does not have turn-by-turn navigation or maps. Thanks in advance.

[@Hikingguy]

You can route anywhere but I believe the only way it will route you is using the current activity. So if you are biking, it will route you on bike friendly paths. And there's not an app for driving, although theoretically there could / should be.

[@igorilla5769]

Great video sir, would you recommend an Epix 2 Pro (47 mm) over a Fenix 7 Pro? 51 would really be too much for my wrist size so I'm not sure whether Epix's 47 battery life could still be reasonably good or not.

[@Hikingguy]

It's really about what screen you prefer and how much battery life you need. I can say that if you were a larger watch for a bit you do get used to it.

[@IcanSeeMyselfOutThanks]

Doesn't kill the Marq Gen 2. Just nabbed an aviator and ooooooooooWEEEEEEEE!

[@TheMetaSD]

Was it a filming artifact, am I crazy, or was the Epix Gen 2 Pro 51 brighter than the Epix Gen 2 47 in the beginning? (There is a good possibility I am crazy)

[@Hikingguy]

Just lighting on the video I think, they're the same in real life

[@robertkelly28]

Interesting. Stuck with my Fenix because of battery life but now I’m tempted. Is it still the case that if you buy in US it doesn’t come with maps for other regions. Say EU. I travel between both.

[@Hikingguy]

You can load multiple regions using Map Manager - kzbin.info/www/bejne/lXbTlJWeg9yCgZo - it's pretty great but slow - think it's quicker loading them via Garmin Express

[@grantrs1]

Where did you get the posters in the background of your studio?

[@Hikingguy]

USGS topo maps

[@cosmicheretic8129]

I just ordered the 51mm to replace my Fenix 6. What size is your wrist?

[@Hikingguy]

Sorry not sure of my wrist size

[@marclaliberte5491]

This is a newbie question, but you keep mentionning that you use the Epic watches to check the trail without having to pull out your phone or your GPS. When I hike major trails, my main navigation tool is FarOut. To the best of my knowledge FarOut does not work with watches. Knowing that I will then need to pull out my phone to look at the map and read user comments, would you still recommend these watches?

[@Hikingguy]

You def dont' need a watch like this, it's more of a luxury. If you're using FarOut and getting other info anyway, that's great and I'd stick with that. If you want a watch to record your milege every day and the maps aren't that important, check out the Instinct Solar which should last a long ass time without a charge.

[@LiladeIph]

My father needs a heart monitoring watch per a health request. I am thinking about gifting him this to play around with and learn. Will the 51MM be to big for everyday use as both a monitoring watch and a casual dress watch?

[@Hikingguy]

You might want to try the Apple Watch, I think the monitoring features are a little more robust and it's aimed at regular users, not athletes. It's what I got for my parent after the same health request.

[@misarthim6538]

Also, if you're not from US, keep in mind that the ECG functionality is only available there and couple other places. By the grace of EU, we're protected from this terrifying feature here in Europe for now.

[@gianlucagilliotos8111]

Hi I would like to know if they have fixed a issue on the new 51mm

[@bilaltahir9978]

What issue?

[@validname1]

Can the display and backlight be always on, on the epix if the watch is not on your wrist? I’m asking due to the application of the epix as a bike computer to go on the handlebar.

[@JLfromSF]

Do we have to use the cumbersome Basecamp to use the garmin watches? Are the Garmin Sat Nav compatible with the watches? Thank you for your great work.

[@Hikingguy]

For the watches use Garmin Connect "courses" which work well, and you can remote control an inReach but the watches don't have inReach in them

[@JLfromSF]

Ok Thanks for your time.

[@neonix01]

@@Hikingguy It's much better to use the Garmin Explore app for this.

[@nicolastirabasso2967]

@@Hikingguy am I wrong or the Explorer+ cannot be paired while the Mini is capable instead.

[@luisfer14240]

👍🏻

[@bmjnyc]

I'm torn between both watches. I'm looking for a watch to use for sea kayak expeditions. I would like to be able to occasionally attach the watch to my kayak deck so I can keep an eye on my speed and bearing (as a back up to charts). The Fenix seems ideal as it's alway on so I would not have to constantly tap the screen to see the data. Does the Epix work this way. When set to always on does the screen dim to a point that one can't make out data?

[@Hikingguy]

You can still see the screen when it dims. I'm not sure how good a marine chart will look on any screen this small though.

[@dannyli5946]

Is it will be too heavy or big for daily use, specifically wear it during sleep?

[@Hikingguy]

I've had a big Fenix or Epix on for years and it's okay, you get used to it quickly, although when you first put it on it will feel clunky, give it a few days

[@dannyli5946]

@@Hikingguythank you, how width of your wrist?

[@MichaelVash7886]

Did you end up wearing sunglasses while using the epix pro?debating 7x pro and epix pro Worried about being outside in sunglasses and triying to read the face.

[@Hikingguy]

I can see the Epix with my sunglasses

[@MichaelVash7886]

Thanks ​@@Hikingguy ordered mine late yesterday. We will see how it goes.

[@brianbrown-cashdollar1171]

I have the first Gen Apple Watch Ultra. It can get through a long day of hiking with airplane mode and power saving mode and activity tracking on. Would the Epix Pro 51mm track activity for weeks + or just a couple of days? How would this compare with the Felix 7 Saphire Solar? Thanks. Doing the GR11 this summer and I’d like to cut down on charging peripherals. I bring a phone, and InReach mini and a watch to track activity. I’m planning on bringing an Anker 737 (26 mAh) and a Anker Solix 30w Solar charger to charge the power bank. Thx

[@Hikingguy]

If you're bring a charger and you have an Ultra already, it probably makes sense to stick with that. Or if you want to track a workout and use paper / phone for maps, get an Instinct Solar which doesn't have maps but lasts forever and will track your daily hikes (and is relatively cheap compared to these)

[@sneakyray9160]

I don’t like how you have to charge it using USB-C, i wish they made it a mag charger like the Apple Watch Ultra

[@Hikingguy]

Yea agree, it's the one thing that's stuck around from the old days, would have though there would be a more graceful charging method than the proprietary connector by now

[@wesley20991]

I am in the market for a watch, I’m wondering can any models from garmin provide some sort of city maps navigator like the Montana 700 series comes with. I would like to occasionally use the watch for turn by turn directions on roads sometimes city sometimes rural on dual sport bike.

[@Hikingguy]

These have streets in the maps and route well in cities, towns, etc, not just trails

[@Peakabike]

Good info, thanks. You don't mention it so I take it the map display isn't any faster, so a bit sluggish?

[@Hikingguy]

Yea same deal as the Epix standard, they work great when moving hiking biking, but if you do a massive zoom/pan, it takes a few seconds, Apple Watch kills them in this respect

[@Peakabike]

@@Hikingguy thanks for confirming. There had been a slight improvement between the F6 anf and the F7/Epix. Hopefully they'll catch up with Apple with the F8/Epix 3

[@MSUdawg50]

How is the screen on the Epix in sunlight?

[@Hikingguy]

working great for me

[@nicolasdesposito2362]

Does this watch have sos functions? If not are there Garmin watching watches that have sos.

[@Hikingguy]

None do but you can remote control an inReach from one

[@user-nx5uk2dc2e]

epix proの最大の難点は時計の機能です。 地図は綺麗ですが小さい画面の為結局よく見えません。 fenix7xproは屋内では天気悪いとよく見えません。 ソーラー電池もおもちゃ程度の機能です。 だから画面綺麗なepix proに買い換えましたが結局どっちもどっちでした。 また使い勝手はAppleには負けます。 Appleがバッテリー1週間持つならGarminとはおさらばですがそうはならないでしょうね。

[@Hikingguy]

that's what I said

[@troxxa8]

How is the interaction with direct sunlight on the amoled from the epix pro ? As I understand, the screen (amoled) shows some weakness when the sun hits the screen. What I've read is that the fenix does not have this problem.. Any one experience with this ?

[@Hikingguy]

I've used them both and I can't say I've ever had a problem in the direct sun with the Epix. However with the Fenix, if the sun doesn't hit it at the right angle, you always have to move your wrist a bit to catch the light correctly. I think the AMOLED is just so bright that it might overcome any sunlight issues.

[@bartjanbosch]

Hi, I got the Epix Pro gen 2 but I have never seen the ECG graph. How did you get that? Thanks!

[@ChristianW1971]

US only I think.

[@Hikingguy]

Yea they need clearance in every country so I think that's in progress.

[@bartjanbosch]

Indeed.... I got it working though through VPN and GPS spoofing

[@gokhangunerkaya5181]

Hello, is the only difference between “epix pro gen 2 standard” and “epix pro gen 2 sapphire” the case material? Some sources say that there are differences regarding GPS and maps. Can you give information too?❤❤❤😢

[@Hikingguy]

As far as I can tell from the spec sheet at Garmin it's just Gorilla Glass vs Sapphire Cyrstal - you can toggle the specs between the two here: www.garmin.com/en-US/p/894067/pn/010-02803-10#specs

[@bilaltahir9978]

How accurate is the altimeter on this watch? Is there an accurate portable altimeter on the market?

[@Hikingguy]

Just like all the other devices, it's never spot on but usually within 30 feet or so. I will look into the portable altimeter more and dive deeper on the altitude accuracy shortly.

[@bilaltahir9978]

@Hikingguy great. Can't wait for that. I think altimetery there are different methods including barometric altimeters and GPS based ones. It would be good to know which ones are the best. I think you can set the garmin epix to measure altitude using the barometric method and GPS methods which give different results. Definitely will be a very unique video if you did something on this

[@bilaltahir9978]

​@Hikingguy did you end up looking a more accurate altimeter?

[@muhammadyusrimanzaidi4614]

please help me. I am at a loss to choose either fenix 7xpro or epix 2pro (47mm).. pleaseee

[@Hikingguy]

kzbin.info/www/bejne/oKitnpSdrplsock

[@joseluismestrabeltran5817]

cordial greetings from Colombia, good video. I have the multiband epix 2, do you think this device is valid compared to the epix pro? . when you think it is prudent to change devices. thank you. hug

[@Hikingguy]

You should be fine with your model unless you need more battery life

[@joseluismestrabeltran5817]

Thank you very much for your response, I will be attentive to your videos. Greetings from Colombia

[@gianlucagilliotos8111]

when we are in maps mode, navigating, for example during a hike activity if you touch the screen first appear + and - for zoom than if you touch the screen once more appear the viewfinder. When touching in a point with the viewfinder in the lower part of the map appears a black window showing the distance from you to the point identified with viewfinder. I would like it showed the altitude of the point identified with the viewfinder so that I could see the altitude in any point on the map just clicking with the viewfinder (I know that if you touch the black window it says “check” and than after about 20 second shows the altitude but this process is too long and furthermore it covers the map)

[@Hikingguy]

Not sure I'd call that an issue but it works the same on the Pro, click on a point, click black window on bottom, you see the distance to but not altitude, then click "review" and you can see altitude and lat lon. It's just the way they set up the OS, they decided that distance to a point was the most important data when you click on a point.

[@gianlucagilliotos8111]

@@Hikingguy I think it is a issue if you use the watch in a mountainous region for hiking where knowing your altitude and at the same time the altitude of a point where you must reach is paramount especially in foggy condition or bad visibility. In different App for iPhone this is possible and easily done.

[@RoyClendaniel]

Not sure I'm buying 30 day battery life. My Fenix gets about 21-25 days of normal use. Maybe you dont get many notifications.

[@MrWinger1951]

Waiting for the Fenix 8, which may be even a better choice?

[@v5745]

Fenix 9 will be even better

[@MrWinger1951]

I'll just wait until Fenix 10 then.@@v5745

[@Hikingguy]

Yea who knows when it comes out - not sure what tech they can introduce that will make it groundbreaking - UNTIL we get a watch that has inReach... not holding my breath but it's got to be in the works and hopefully less than a few years out

[@v5745]

@@Hikingguy having a combo device is not safe. It is always better to have some redundancy, which saved me a lot of troubles, like having maps in the watch and in my gpsmap or Montana; like having inreach separately from navigation device; like not using your phone for navigation maybe as navi backup only etc. So such combo fenix is not a good idea aside from having lte and voice communication I watch - that is a must for garmin if they want to keep in touch with Apple Watch. Mapping in Apple Watch is still much inferior to Garmjn, but they are developing it and Apple Watch can be used as redundant phone in case you need it

[@MrBSchweini]

Do they actually have the same screen? They look different from your video.

[@Hikingguy]

same screen

[@MiniEggs1999]

Have you ever tried the garmin leather band?

[@Hikingguy]

I have not

[@v5745]

I had two. It will not last more than year or two not a good choice for activity watch- absorbs moisture, sweat etc. Best band IMHO is nylon Garmin original from Tactix

[@Alex-oy6wb]

Why is this on your Apple playlist?

[@navihikes]

You ever tried coros watches? I hear they are a bit more accurate GPS and heart monitor wise

[@Hikingguy]

I have one testing now. Wouldn't say it's more accurate for me on GPS but def less expensive and high quality.

[@Hikingguy]

@@user-ur4lv4zh4h yup

[@Jay151]

Turns out the Fenix killed the Epix 😄

[@zLcss]

Fenix like battery ? Never. Only if you turn off the always on display. And turning off the display on a watch kind off defeats its entire purpose

[@Hikingguy]

That's not what I found after wearing and testing both extensively. If I'm not looking at the face I don't need it on.

[@Natan9000]

He just explained it in the video, the 51mm has the same battery life. Only mip is always on, amoled isn’t or with a shorter battery life.

[@KennyChong]

If the amoled screen is not set to always-on, then it's not an accurate comparison with a MIP screen.

[@Hikingguy]

@@KennyChong If the screen is on when you're not looking at it, what's the value in having it on?

[@KennyChong]

@@Hikingguy I don't always wear my watch, placing it on the table. I like to be able to glance at it to know the current time without having to interact with the watch. Like a traditional watch. I understand you don't need the screen always on, but a like-for-like comparison would necessitate the screen to be set to always on in order to get a true picture.

[@area51r]

those watches are over priced and they under deliver. heart rate is delayed, and the altitude of where you are at is always, always incorrect. I regret even getting a Garmin watch.

[@Hikingguy]

Curious as to what device is always giving you a correct altitude - this gives me the same ballpark as other devices like GPSMAP, Apple Watch, etc

[@szefix5927]

Can U write @area51r what watch are U using ?

[@KurtMcScotsman]

I would take a look at te privacy evaluations done by Mozilla. Garmin came out as one of the better brands when it came to privacy, whereas others didn't do so well. Essentially, it doesn't look like Garmin is subsidizing the device cost by selling your data, whereas other device manufacturers seem to be. Always tradeoffs.

[@v5745]

Check settings under altimeter and calibrate

[@bindraussen]

Or call the service

[@xxlgorillanorgaming8499]

Just get a Coros

[@Hikingguy]

not if you want onboard maps or navigation

[@apjapjapj3535]

Thanks!

[@Hikingguy]

WHOA BIG BIG THANK YOU!!!

[@andrewzolopa4791]

Thanks!

[@Hikingguy]

Big thank you!!!!