Garmin Fenix 7X vs COROS Vertix 2 In-Depth Comparison - Which Rugged Fitness Watch Is Right for You?

[@noneims]

My 2 cents as from a user who switched from Garmin Enduro to Vertix 2 in mid-December. 1) The key point behind big battery life from COROS is - watch measures HR once every 10 minutes! It switches HR sensor on and does its readings for 30-40 seconds and then it goes silent. If you switch the mode to "every second" then battery life suffers significantly and is a lot worse than Enduro's in every-day usage; 2) In run mode, the Vertix 2 is on par with Garmin. Each one has its edges (e.g., Vertix has native run power, Garmins have ClimbePro etc.); 3) Out-of-sports usage COROS is 2nd or even 3rd tier if compared to Garmin. Garmin beats it by a mile in the wellness and smartwatch usage. Unfortunately (e.g., sleep tracking is glitchy and worse on Vertix 2 along with buggy HR readings at night for me; phone notification control is "off-line" etc. and not talked even about Body battery that Dave mentioned).

[@ChaseTheSummit]

Thanks for sharing!

[@tode72]

Bought Fenix 7 pro Saphire solar and for me the key selling points where 1.easy to use 2.long batterylife 3 water proof. 4.awesome GPS tracking Best sport watch I ever used. Thanks for great review.

[@superfast30]

Great video. Having owned a fenix 7 briefly, I can say with confidence that the Vertix 2 has far better engineering and build quality. I had 3 fenix 6 suffer from sticking button issues and 2 Fenix 7's which I ended up returning. Further more, the Vertix 2 uses grade 5 titanium that is much harder than the grade 2 titanium used on the fenix. The grade 5 titanium used on the Vertix also undergoes a further hardening process and the sapphire has a DLC coating which brings it even closer to the hardness of a diamond. Even the engineering that has gone into the rotating crown is great which is completely frictionless and will never wear out. Sure, the fenix has a more refined mapping and tracking but at the end of the day, you really cant go wrong either. If you're looking for amazing build quality, incredible battery life and outstanding GPS accuracy, the Vertix 2 is the winner in my books!!

[@ChaseTheSummit]

"Far better" is strong wording. I think most people won't notice the difference between grade 5 and grade 2 titanium. But yeah, I would give an edge to the COROS in terms of build quality and materials but the Fenix 7 is no slouch either.

[@superfast30]

@@oray.gungor. I clearly stated that I am not!

[@snusmumriken232]

@@ChaseTheSummit interesting. I think I will begin my graduate degree education in material science now, in order to understand whether I would prefer the Coros Vertix 2 over the Garmin Fenix 7X.

[@bufferino7880]

I’ve had the Fenix 6 for almost 3 years and no issues but I get why you’d be frustrated if you went through 3.

[@bartlmyy]

Got the vertix 2 for very cheap. With a price so low, worth it ! I really love this watch, even if the fenix 7x is better on paper. Still, new updates really improved the user experience on the coros since this video was published.

[@razznote7586]

Actually the big factor here is the price, the $300 Fenix 7 Pro price is quite a lot. If you need all those extras, will the $300 price worth it? The Spotify Music, the other UI features and more data in the App. Though the COROS app is quite less but more focused. For me Vertix 2 already have checked the required tick boxes so its hard to justify the additional $300 for the Garmin Fenix 7x Pro.

[@79Dad]

Another great video Dave! Instead of upgrading to Fenix 7 sapphire from 6 sapphire I've decided to try out Coros Vertix 2. Thanks again for nerdin out with us on all of these great devices. You're opinion is much appreciated

[@ChaseTheSummit]

Thanks! Nice! you won't be dissapointed.

[@coreysw1212]

Great video! I already bought my 7X weeks ago, but it's always nice to get some positive reinforcement that I made the right choice ;) I'd love to see a Fenix 7 video where you take it out on a hike up in the mountains, and go through all the various features you use along the way. Most reviewers tend to hyper-focus on the marathon running features of it, so it would be cool to see it in use from a hiking perspective, and I think you'd be the best reviewer to do that!

[@ChaseTheSummit]

Awesome idea! I'll see what I can do about a hikers perspective!

[@DanielCho1997]

thanks for taking this objectively, a lot of reviewers fall into the trap of Garmin bias and don't give coros a fair shot

[@ChaseTheSummit]

I really like COROS as a whole. They've made a lot of progress in such a short amount of time. The fact that we're even comparing these two side by side means a lot. The Fenix line has been around for over a decade. The COROS brand as a whole has only been around for a few years... but here we are! Yes, Garmin has an advantage in most categories but if you wanted a simple watch with ridiculous battery life there is absolutely nothing wrong with the Vertix 2!

[@Mariusz760301]

Now, after many software upgrades Coros is the same functionality like Garmin, but Coros have much more bigger battery.

[@codyjackson7355]

Great video Dave! I loved my Vertix 2 surprisingly it got less comfortable overtime. So I went down to the regular Fenix 7 SS. Visually I prefer the Vertix 2, battery life is like no other and I prefer how evo lab presents the data. But the Fenix 7 still beats out the Vertix 2. Especially since I got it for the same price.

[@ChaseTheSummit]

Thanks for sharing! the Vertix 2 certainly takes some getting used to. It's a big watch!

[@Seanonyoutube]

What about it got uncomfortable?

[@lensofthenorth42]

Can't get more detailed or accurate than this! Great video as usual. I think Garmin's greater experience and marketshare is giving Coros a very tough fight.. Connect IQ and 3rd party support for everything from apps to music streaming is firmly in Garmin's favor. But with how big the jump from Vertix to Vertix 2 is, I still have a lot of hope for Coros. 7x is everything an outdoors watch should be, but the jump from 6x sapphire isn't nearly as big so I'll hold on to mine until 7x gets a decent price cut.

[@ChaseTheSummit]

Thanks! It's certainly a tough fight for COROS but they've made a lot of pregress in short amount of time.

[@DJrunner]

Great video. I have the Vertix 2 because I needed that battery life and I don't need all the features from Garmin... But it was a tough choice. Price of the Coros made my final decision!

[@ChaseTheSummit]

Nice! It's a great watch!

[@Dannyv1987]

@scs-suisse can u get text messages and calls on the coros vertex 2 and can u reply to messages from the watch

[@nikitarubilov2753]

Thank you for the video! I use fenix 7x and my wife uses coros pace 3.. the difference is in the training plans. Coros suggests more advanced plans (for example marathon training, advanced half marathon etc) compare to garmin and mobile app to manage them looks more convenient and up to date. I think for that garmin it’s 5 years behind. But garmin ahead in everything on the tech side

[@mutebg]

I hope coros add more wellness features, the sleep is pretty basic and they do not have body battery or stress, which I find very useful to plan my runs. and as you mentioned that part is pretty well integrated at Garmin. Even your daily suggested workouts are based on your sleep I believe.

[@ChaseTheSummit]

Agreed. That's one area that needs further development. At this stage it's just a bunch of numbers.

[@Quello_di_una_volta]

Totally agree. I'd like to know Coros roadmap for future update (Coros made a lot of nice and and very dense update even on older watches).

[@wandywan2444]

dont worry coros will put more development on their sofware side..right now,coros sofware is getting better after new update

[@Quello_di_una_volta]

Sleep tracker improvement is on the way, a picture of REM graph in Coros app was showed, as error, in Coros official group. I guess (andhope) it is not the only update on this side

[@wandywan2444]

@@Quello_di_una_volta yeah there will be more update coming soon,i do hope coros map with navigation neck to neck with fenix series

[@peterj6809]

Great video. I have Vertix 2 for couple of months and they are very well built. BUT maps and navigation is far better on F7X. My ideal watch would be hybrid. Build in quality and batery life of the Vertix2 and map and navigation of F7X. :)

[@ChaseTheSummit]

They're both really good. I have no complaints about the Fenix 7X battery life though. It will go for a month on a charge and over 100 hours in GPS mode!

[@razznote7586]

And the price of Vertix 2 instead of the F7X!

[@mckayflake1590]

I think a gramin Fenix 6 vs 7 would be helpful. Right now there's some crazy deals on the 6 and I'm having a tough time deciding if the couple extra features make it worth it

[@richt3993]

I've got a 6 and definitely would choose it instead of the 7. The 7 is an awesome watch but most of the new stuff is simply a slicker UI. I appreciate GPS is definitely improved but is a slightly straighter line worth an extra 30%? Finally, as we all know with products of this nature, it takes a year before most of the bugs are ironed out

[@ChaseTheSummit]

Absolutely, working on a video about that!

[@gunny6517]

I have the 6X Pro Solar (still looks brand new) and don’t see any 7X feature that would want me to grab the 7X.. So for me, waiting to see what they do with the 8X…. 🇺🇸

[@muriaticfpv2328]

I had the same dilemma. Went with the 6pro. No regents. My deciding factor was the memory. The 6pro has 32 gigs, and the 7, for 300cad more, only has 16 gigs. I would have had to jump up to the 7solar, and that's where the price starts getting nutty. The 6 is a solid watch, makes me want to run more!

[@anttitapio4145]

Bought 6X Pro for 470 € last week. My first Garmin and I think this was the best bang for the buck when compared anything else on the market. There is no point paying almost 300 € more for fenix 7 base model or 500 € for X-model.

[@SullynNH]

Really useful video! I recently went through a comparison when trying to decide and opted for the Vertix 2. It was a tough choice, the mapping on the Fenix was really tempting, but it came down to ease of use and battery life in the end. As you said, both are very capable and it just comes down to personal preference.

[@ChaseTheSummit]

Glad it was useful! The vertix 2 is a great watch!

[@wandywan2444]

dont worry ive read on coros global they gonna update v2 map soon

[@SkaiSharku]

I'm definitely going for the Vertix 2. It just looks way better than the Garmin watches. Also, I did email the other day with Coros and they are planning and working on a lot of great features and am positive that they will update it even more. Just showing what they did for the older Vertix and Apex with maps is proof of that. Vertix 2 feels more future proof, even if the Garmin 7 is now ahead. Interested in a similar comparison video of these two watches in a year from now.

[@ChaseTheSummit]

The COROS is a great watch and I agree that COROS continues to add features over time. However, I never make a purchasing decision based on "future firmware updates" because those are never a guarantee. Thanks for sharing!

[@wandywan2444]

yeah i agree with you.coros will put more sofware update in the future,apex pro already have new map feature and for sure their latest watch vertix 2 which release in the year 2021 will have some new features soon.i am planning to buy vertix 2 later.vertix 2 is more cheap than fenix and battery life is just awesome…

[@drmaqureshi]

I want to purchase , which I purchase garmin 7x Saphire solar or vertix 2 ??

[@drmaqureshi]

Mapping is good on vertix 2 than Garmin 7x solar ?

[@razznote7586]

@@drmaqureshi 1st is the budget your willing to use: V2 is $700 F7x is $1000. 2nd Do you think you would need all those extras that Garmin is offering. Personal recommendation is COROS Vertix 2 or 2S (just released). But if you need Spotify, better map and navigation, and additional smartwatch features (for the additional $300) then go for the Fenix 7x.

[@Gabrielerf]

Great video, I completely agree with you, Coros has done a great job, but Garmin's ecosystem is the best.

[@ChaseTheSummit]

Thanks!

[@jwate]

I’ve been under a rock. I looked into running watches about 8 years ago and bought a fenix 3. Upgraded to a 5. Now I ordered the 7. I’ve Never heard of coros before… 🤷‍♂️ anyways, good info.

[@bigjon.6258]

Best Review Yet.......I love the 51mm for a big boy watch.😊😊

[@matthewmackay3354]

A great bulleted review. Thanks for putting the time, thought and effort into sharing this info. As mainly a road runner, the Coros with native Stryd integration would be the winner. But both are overkill for my skinny wrists-and skinny wallet.😀

[@ChaseTheSummit]

Thanks! Both are totally overkill for most people lol.

[@urbanbldr]

Great comparison. I've had the Fenix 6X Sapphire for the past year or so and I love it! I'm thinking of upgrading to the 7X Sapphire Solar. The touchscreen feature has sold me, especially because of the fact that you can now easily pan the maps! Much easier than using the buttons.

[@ChaseTheSummit]

So convenient in the mapping screens!

[@chrisking6448]

“It’s my video” ….I love it! Awesome video Dave, you’re the best!!

[@ChaseTheSummit]

Thanks Chris!

[@trailzrock2]

I would easily give the sensor support to the Garmin. Just because it also has ANT+ support. I had the Coros Vertix 2 on my short list till I found out it didn't have ANT+ support. A bulk of my cycling training indoors where ANT+ is a necessity especially since the Bluetooth sensors are taken up by the iPad leaving no Bluetooth for your watch to pair with. That is unless you have ANT+. 👍

[@ChaseTheSummit]

For sure, lack of ANT+ can be a deal breaker for some. Thanks for sharing.

[@Quello_di_una_volta]

Hey, I'm the one requested this video :) Thanks for it. About display quality, it is strange, because from the video, the one that looks better is the vertix 2.

[@ChaseTheSummit]

Probably because the watchface has a white background in the video. They're basically the same with the backlight off. But with the backlight ON the Fenix 7 is way nicer to look at.

[@jab0321]

If you change the background on the Fenix 7 to white, the display is much easier to read in almost all lighting conditions.

[@Quello_di_una_volta]

@@jab0321 I'm sure you are right, but from the video the vertix display looks nice and well readable even when he navigate on the menu (so, with coulored text/images over black background)

[@wandatowellable]

I'm a Vertix user but tbh the Fenix 7 range can do 95% of what a Vertix 2 can do and it does it better. I'm just a sucker for an underdog.

[@ChaseTheSummit]

You’re not alone. I’d love to see someone challenge Garmin in every aspect. After all competition only benefits us, the consumers!

[@pedrocarvalho4266]

Coros has an unbeatable price too.

[@MrCoonass1111]

There's an agreement that wife's getting her nails done tomorrow in the notifications is the most important feature of them all:-)

[@RK-ed7cc]

Thanks for a great review as always. One correction though. Trivial as it may be for most people, you get to 10 atmospheres at only 90 meters.

[@MrTian1212]

Garmin now has weather displayed on map overlay, which is really fantastic for those who have to check the weather for various locations en route. Plus, I don't think I would be happy with Coros Digital Crown with very thick gloves here in MN -- probably a lot of accidental activation against the outfit.

[@BalkanOutdoorsman]

I will go Garmin. Just because of mapping,and as I live in Croatio where we got like a LOT sun,my assumption is thst I could utilize solar better and thus better battery life,and in same time be less dependable of charging.

[@yawillykwily7179]

Great Video mate, I bought the Fenix 7s, wish I had a bigger wrist size, would've love buy Fenix 7x for the longer battery life and the torch.

[@ChaseTheSummit]

It's a big watch! The 7s is a nice compromise. I wish they found a way to squeeze a tiny flashlight on the smaller versions.

[@Flyingskill100]

@Ralph Reilly I’ve got a 17cm wrist as well, the 7X fits very well. Comfortable and doesn’t wobble because it’s pretty light weight. So no worries :)

[@philbio7579]

Long time Instinct Gen 1 owner looking to upgrade. I'm between the Epix 2 pro and a Vertix. Which way would you go? Thanks for all the vids!

[@mattmaceachern3826]

Thank you so much. That was the most thorough comparison I’ve seen and very helpful. I’m looking for a watching mostly for mountaineering and hiking so altitude was important to me but this was super helpful summary. Thanks !

[@thewildman4300]

Tactix 7 Pro from Playbetter. 100% great video!

[@jonathanbonde8808]

I am woefully lacking in navigation skills. It is something I want to get better at, but, I'm honestly just not sure how except to just get out, get lost and try to make my way around, which is frankly scary to do. Based on this review I think I'm going for the Fenix 7, that mapping feature would be a lifesaver for me on all the trail running I do. Thanks!

[@ChaseTheSummit]

For sure, the peace of mind of having full mapping and navigation on your wrist is hugely valuable!

[@erichouck9487]

I bought the fenix 7X, partly because I have been using Garmin products for years and are used to them

[@ChaseTheSummit]

Nice!

[@xiondFirst]

Even though this is a year old and there are sales on garmin watches. I will have to pick Garmin over Vertix just because it's more comfortable to me and has the featuresets i want.

[@bprolifik]

Very informative & thank you for comparing them!

[@mohammadshirali5828]

Hello, I want to buy a watch Do you think it is a Garmin or a cross between the two models you mentioned in the video?

[@Pipppetto]

Top notch review as usual !! Anyway, for comparison purpose, I'd chosen the same (inverted) color scheme - dark on white background or viceversa - on both watches. Just my two cents ...

[@ChaseTheSummit]

That would have made sense. Thanks for watching.

[@jibransadozai8294]

I have garmin tactical 7 pro. Also have garmin venu 2 plus. But just to experience different interface and platform. I ordered a coros vertix 2. And it has been lot cheaper in price than garmin 7 tactical 7 pro. So i will be switching each other from garmin 7 to vertix 2 time by time.😃

[@ajayg9077]

how is coros now? i got fenix 7x. didnt knew abt coros until now

[@69conan]

Hi. Are you going to do a compare between Coros Vertix 2s and Garmin enduro 3?

[@ropersix]

So are you saying the Coros doesn't have topo maps? Because that's a huge difference, if it doesn't have those (or you can't download them to the watch).

[@Mariusz760301]

Now Coros received many software upgrades which are eliminate differencrs to fenix Great personall trainer with huge battery.

[@YogaWithCriss]

Thanks, I just made a decision thanks to your video.

[@Ariozo111]

On just that two, F7X all days of the week..:) Coros have solid battery life in their watches but still lack in software and ui. :)

[@MateHegyhati]

A quick note: There is a CiQ data field by Garmin that shows running power. If I recall correctly, it is still kind of beta, but it is there. Native Stryd support is missing though. And I think it would have been nice to have a category, about what A can do, but B doesn't, not just compare what both of them have. (For example: incident detection, safety features). Also, nowadays the Ecosystem is becoming more and more important, even if it is not really part of a watch. But take these just as constructive comments, still a nice video 🙂

[@ChaseTheSummit]

Yes, Running Power is available on CIQ but it still requires an additional sensor (RD Pod, HRM Pro, Etc...) or a Stryd pod. The Vertix 2 collects running power without any additional sensors which is super handy. Thanks for watching!

[@MateHegyhati]

@@ChaseTheSummit Ah, my bad, thanks! Any experience with the accuracy of the V2 compared to stryd? Not necessarily absolute values, but does it keep the same "trends"?

[@andys121.]

the Fenix 7 is the best by a mile , no doubt

[@ChaseTheSummit]

In most cases. But it really comes down to the user and what they prioritize.

[@lorenae8394]

Does any of those watches have audio cues while you're running and listening to music from the watch? I mean, can you "hear" where you are at in terms of distance, for example?

[@ChaseTheSummit]

No turn by turn cues but Garmin will tell you your distance, and pace at every mile if you enable it.

[@mherald]

I really like the Vertix2 but do wish they would make the touch screen more consistent and not feel like an incomplete experience...I think how it scrolls through the widgets is a bug made into a feature, because it just keeps going into the details of the other widgets and not just the one you selected. I also wish for the brightness controls and some day maybe I'll get my workouts from Final Surge. :)

[@ChaseTheSummit]

I feel the same way. It’s so weird that it only works in some aspects of the watch.

[@jesussavesfatherthesonandh5136]

Those Garmin has offline mapping feature?

[@Quello_di_una_volta]

After some days of Zen meditation and hard interior suffering, I think I'll wait before purchase one or another. All in all, the Coros vertix 2 issues looks all related to software unmatured, I guess they can be closed to Garmin best features with some upgrades on their evolab and firmware update; for maps it will be a long way, but I'm not an expert and actual vertix maps are enough for me, what I want is more love for indoor sports (expecially weightlifting, they are very close to Garmin) and wellness (sleep and stress tracking, Garmin is few steps forward). But I prefer the Coros attitude to upgrade their watches (if hardware allow it) instead of release new ones with new features and totally leave behind the older products, also I like the vertix 2 design and crow interaction instead of buttons.

[@ChaseTheSummit]

Thanks for sharing! The nice thing about COROS is the speed at which they add more features / firmware updates. It seems like there's a "major upgrade" 3-4 times per year even on their older watches.

[@RallihSarl]

I took the Vertix 2. Budget decided and as you mentioned. I don't need that extra fluff that are in Garmin. Just not worth the money :D

[@ChaseTheSummit]

Being "worth it" is subjective. If you'll use the fluff... it's worth it. If not? The Pace 2 is a great watch for $200 bucks!

[@GlaucusBlue]

That is disappointing with the limited map on the coros. Now choice narrowed down at least, now got to choose between fenix 6 or 7 both top end models there's about £200 difference in 2nd hand market. OK after watching your 6 vs 7 video, touch screen on its own for mapping is worth it.

[@aresmaximus1]

Very instructive thanks what about fenix 7 Vs instinct 2x?

[@matthiasschorghofer7129]

Hi Dave. How can the Vertix 2 or the newer Vertix 2S be so much better in batterylife than the Fenix 7X? The batterysize should be around the same if you look at the weight of those 2 watches. I heard that the heartrate only gets tracked every few minutes. Are there otherwise any differences to the Fenix? Does is track less data in GPS only Mode because in the other GPS settings the number of hours isn‘t so much higher? Hope you can help me. Thx Matthias🙂👍🏾

[@ChaseTheSummit]

There's a couple of tricks with COROS. Yes, the 24/7 heart rate reading has a default setting of 10 minute intervals. So you don't get true 24/7 1 second heart rate recordings unless you turn that on in the settings or you enable the new "Stress Tracking" feature which enables it by default. The other trick COROS has is that it uses a fixed backlight brightness which is quite dim and has no adjustments while on Garmin you've got a setting for 5% - 100% brightness and at peak brightness it's much, much brighter than the COROS. Finally, the CPU/GPU COROS uses is incredibly power efficient but that does come at the expense of a slower user interface and a bit more lag along with less capabilities like on Garmin with Connect IQ and all of the things you can do with third party apps.

[@matthiasschorghofer7129]

@@ChaseTheSummit ok. Great. Thx. But when you turn the heartrate measurement on every second which batterylife do you get then? Does it also measure less while GPS tracking then Garmin aswell🤔🙂

[@grahamlloyd2838]

This was an excellent presentation. Thank you! A solid comparison in a short time of two very good watches. (I like the navigation on the Garmin Fenix..)

[@ChaseTheSummit]

Glad it was helpful!

[@peakproofuk]

Very useful. Especially the map info. I guess there’s alway the forerunner 955 option with garmin to get the price down.

[@randycoffey2401]

Great video Dave. Hope you can help. Quick questions about the Coros Vertix, if you're still using it. I updated my Vertix this weekend (05/21/2022) and the calorie measuring/burning reading changed tremendously. Coros is saying the new firmware update does not track "non active" calories any longer. I thought it was a problem with my watch, since I have always measured 650-700 on a sedentary day to 2200 on an active day. I was at my desk job, and watch registered 73 calories burned for the entire day 5:00am - 7pm. Coros support saying that is normal for 12 hours, after the firmware update, since it no longer tracks anything under a cadence level of 130 steps per minute. But according to Coros, it's a more accurate reading, because the reading. I don't understand the logic, and think there's another software or hardware issue, but Coros seems to think thats normal and expected. Any experience with the May 2022 update?

[@ChaseTheSummit]

That's interesting. I suppose it doesn't really matter other than adjusting to the new normal if the algorithm is the same. There are some brands that track BMR + Active Calories, and others that only track Active Calories which is what it sounds like COROS is doing. I'll have to look further into this. Thanks for sharing.

[@chch242]

Dave, thanks for the comparison, there are few ultra runners around me using Coros (sponsored) and I was curious if Coros can seriously bite a bit of Garmins cake. Two notes though: - I've got a Running Power data field on Garmin Fénix 6 Pro. I'm not sure if it is the thing you were referring to with Coros power. - Fair comparison should include the ecosystems. With Garmin Connect overlooking also my Garmin Edge cycling computer I have all the health and fitness information under one umbrella, could be important for multisport people.

[@ChaseTheSummit]

Running power is available on Garmin but you need an additional sensor for it to work (RD Pod, HRM Pro, Stryd, Etc...) on COROS it's wrist based and works without any sensors. For sure, Ecosystem is a consideration but to keep this video under an hour in duration I glazed over a lot of features and just spoke about what I considered to be the selling points. As stated at the beginning of the videos "This is my use case and yours is probably different, so form your own opinion" Thanks for watching!

[@chch242]

@@ChaseTheSummit ah, so there's the power coming from, my HRM pro. Thanks for the explanation. And you are right, user cases differ very much.

[@jcldc]

Great video as usual !

[@ChaseTheSummit]

Thanks!

[@JB-hq9yj]

Dave, out of all the new Garmin's you've tested what is your favorite and daily driver right now for model and size? I'm stuck between Instinct 2 and Fenix 7SS coming from the Instinct Solar. I have the same wrist size as you, I don't like huge watches which kept me from Fenix in the past but the Fenix 7SS 47mm one seems lighter and thinner than the F6 I tried last year. Thanks in advance!

[@ChaseTheSummit]

I've been wearing the Instinct 2 daily because it just "gets out of the way" but there are so many good options right now. I guess in order of my personal preference it would go 1. Epix 2. Instinct 2 3. Fenix 7 but that changes on a daily basis lol. Sorry I can't be more helpful.

[@JB-hq9yj]

@@ChaseTheSummit Damn. That says a lot that you are wearing Instinct 2 so much and put it up there with Epic and Fenix 7. That's quite a change from how you viewed the Instinct 1. Good stuff. Thank you

[@datadps9142]

Marvelous video! I have a question, due to budget & wrist size I am considering Fenix 7s, Fenix 7 and Epix 2. I think the Epix 2 screen looks smart and the price seems ok. Which would you recommend in terms of battery life and daily use? I am running/ training 1 hour a day and 2+ hours on weekends. Training for Half Marathon & Marathon. I am not an ultra marathoner. Again thanks for your video!

[@ChaseTheSummit]

If battery life or budget isn't your main concern there's really no downsides to the Epix.

[@datadps9142]

@@ChaseTheSummit thanks a lot!

[@emilrux]

What about Garmin Enduro being the actual rival of Coros Vertix 2? They are closer price wise, battery is a central selling point, smart features are not. I have the feeling, with all these flagship grade devices Garmin releases, Enduro got forgotten, even though it's relatively new.

[@ChaseTheSummit]

Check out my channel, I've got an Enduro/Fenix vs Vertix 2 video.

[@ANDRESTARZ90]

The 7x rocks!!!!!

[@marcelofernandes5413]

Good videos. Bom. Does fenix 7 have TracBack function?

[@ChaseTheSummit]

Yes

[@janwedig7283]

I need your help! What do you think should i pick. The Garmin 6X Pro for 330€ or the Garmin 7 (base Model) for 470€. Both on discount. I ask myself if the 16GB on the Fenix 7 base model is not enough? Do you think the 6X Pro ist the better option? Greetings from Germany :)

[@ChaseTheSummit]

Kind of depends what you can afford. The Fenix 7 is better in just about every way.

[@kawaquackygreen5977]

Hi Dave, have you managed to scratch or scuff the bezels on the DLC coated Fenix? I somehow managed to catch the top of my solar sapphire today in a pool and that scratched mine. I’ve knocked it in loads of places before without a mark but the slight brush against the pool grout did the damage😢

[@ChaseTheSummit]

Mines got a few dings. The DLC is scratch resistant... not scratch proof unfortunately.

[@richt3993]

Not a fanboy but Garmin 100% and if the 7 is too expensive get the 6 which is cheaper and still more powerful than the Coros. Unless you are doing a multi day event and really cannot be bothered recharging your watch, the Garmin hands down trumps the Coros. If the 7 ( or 6) are too powerful then there are many cheaper watches than the Vertix so I honestly dont know in what circumstances you would choose the Coros.

[@ChaseTheSummit]

There is some allure to the COROS Vertix 2's user experience that's hard to capture on the spec sheet. It's a very simple, reliable feeling watch and it gives me peace of mind knowing the battery life is basically infinite lol. But yes, the Fenix 6 and 7 both have more features to offer. Thanks for watching!

[@justinturnbow371]

Always love your post what is your take between the fenix 7 and the enduro?

[@ChaseTheSummit]

It's a similar take between the Fenix 6 and Fenix 7. the 7 has a better HR sensor, better GPS performance, and a more efficient solar ring. Enduro still has awesome battery life. Which features are more important to you?

[@justinturnbow371]

@@ChaseTheSummit just wish the Enduro had maps

[@cutterdevil]

great video. I prefer fenix 7x as well

[@ChaseTheSummit]

Thanks for sharing!

[@ATRips]

I am little bit more interested in Garmin's Multiband vs Vertix 2 Dual Frequency accuracy a little bit more. I was wondering if you could share the linked to the routes in the video [16:23]. Also how is the comfort between vertix 2 and garmin 7x solar sapphire?

[@ChaseTheSummit]

Those tracks should be on my Strava (linked in description) comfort is pretty good on both but they are large watches.

[@tonytownsell2481]

Great review. Thank you. I may have missed it, but I'm wondering if loading a GPX file and using that to assure you stay on the right course is different between the two? For instance, a trail race where there are different trail options and having confidence that you haven't taken a wrong turn. Thanks for any help with that!

[@ChaseTheSummit]

Both the Vertix 2 and Fenix 7 can do this however as mentioned in the video the Vertix 2 doesn't have trail/road labels or names and it's not a routeable map. So if you wonder off course it won't correct you by re-routing you. It will give you an alert to let you know that you've deviated your course by buzzing/beeping. The fenix 7x however will actively re-route your course just like google maps in a car to keep you moving in the right direction. It's also easier to load a GPX file into Garmin's platform using Garmin connect while it's a little more complicated on the COROS but not impossible once you've gotten used to it.

[@tonytownsell2481]

@@ChaseTheSummit thanks so much! Sorry I picked up most of that but I guess I didn’t fully understand

[@ashishm5763]

NEED A QUICK SUGGESTION- want a gps running watch on a 200$ budget, i dont use any extra gear. just need an accurate gps no compromise on that which watch should i choose garmin 55, coros pace 2 , a polar or any other ??

[@ChaseTheSummit]

Easy answer: Coros Pace 2

[@ashishm5763]

@@ChaseTheSummit now suggest a site where i can get it on discount 😁😁

[@vaclavbouda7320]

Coros hawe from factory set HR monitoring every 10min?switch IT on allways,And see battery life

[@ChaseTheSummit]

For sure. But it’s still superior in GPS mode battery life which is recorded in 1-second intervals.

[@clitaiulian4497]

Have you had a chance to compare the final reported distances? I guess these should be very close to each other. Thanks.

[@ChaseTheSummit]

Depends on the GPS mode but they're nearly identical within 1/10 of a mile of eachother after a 10+ mile run.

[@clitaiulian4497]

@@ChaseTheSummit Thanks a lot for your reply. Seems reasonable.

[@remybakken3019]

Hey. What is your wrist size? And which watch is your daily driver ?

[@ChaseTheSummit]

165mm these days I reach for the epix most often but it changes frequently.

[@remybakken3019]

@@ChaseTheSummit Thanks!

[@biniamshawul5743]

i asked coros concerning the map, they don't exclude to integrate the same thing as the fenix in future updates 😇😉

[@ChaseTheSummit]

When I first heard that COROS was bringing maps to the table my FIRST question was "are they route-able?" they're not there yet but I wouldn't be surprised if they optimize the mapping feature and it comes down the road.

[@1732kenneth]

Can you enlighten me if the Garmin7x uses what3words to alert others of location if an event of no movement had been detected.

[@ChaseTheSummit]

I'm not aware of "what3words" is but the 7X does feature a location sharing/tracking system for friends and family. It also features Garmin's assistance which allows you to trigger an "emergency" from your wrist that will alert friends and family.

[@YamilGonzales]

Dave! love your jacket! I see is from Outdoors Research but what model? Thanks.

[@ChaseTheSummit]

It's the "Vigor Full Zip"

[@YamilGonzales]

@@ChaseTheSummit thank you, sir!

[@clitaiulian4497]

Very nice video. Been waiting for this for a while. How about when you compare GPS accuracy when using all systems single band? I don’t think you’ve mentioned anything related to this. Keep them coming. Cheers.

[@ChaseTheSummit]

The Fenix 7 seems more accurate in every mode except for multi-frequency in which case they look identical. It’s really splitting hairs but the Fenix 7 is looking REAL good to the point where I feel like multifrequency is overkill unless you’re in a slot canyon. The Vertix 2 is quite good though, one of the best on the market.

[@clitaiulian4497]

@@ChaseTheSummit Thanks a lot for your answer. I sold my Fenix 6X Sapphire due to poor GPS accuracy and bought a Vertix 2 instead and I’m very pleased with it so far. I think it comes down to software when you compare these 2 watches from a GPS accuracy standpoint since they probably have the same chipset. I’m curious how things will evolve in the future.

[@Joker-yb6ks]

2023 I'm still use fenix5x plus

[@108bkbrarian]

Looking for more data on vertical tracking. I was interested in the vertix 2 because it was designed in colab with Tommy Caldwell. Vertical orientation is important to me. Also I see that vertix comes with clipable carabiner attachment, you can't really hand jam well with a watch on. If you or anyone knows of someone with this sort of testing feedback, I would be very interested. Argh, tough decision. Thank you though I appreciate your thorough review

[@ChaseTheSummit]

Thanks for sharing! The Fenix 7x will indeed also track vertical orientation since it too has a barometric altimeter and will display this in real time on the watch. The Vertix 2's carabiner mount is not included in the box unfortunately, it's an additional $79.99. Personally for climbing trips I've always just used the wrist band to attach the watch to my pack but the carabiner clip is a nice touch! These are both great watches.

[@Kevin-cf8uu]

My worry seems to be that Garmin wants you to pay a subscription to get the better maps and features; it doesn't seem that's the case with Coros which to me is a big deal. I'm so tired of paying subscriptions for everything.

[@ChaseTheSummit]

The only subscription Garmin has for watches is “Maps+” which provides some verrrry unique/niche map layers that 99% of us don’t need. You still get a super detailed free topo map with lots of information with the purchase of your watch.

[@frstesiste7670]

Really useful info. I want the map of the Fenix 7x, but the GPS battery life of the Vertix 2. The flashlight and solar make me lean towards the Garmin though. Guess that without constant GPS use and a good amount of sun the Garmin will work a really long time without recharge.

[@ChaseTheSummit]

The battery life of the Vertix 2 is hard to beat! I think the reality is the Fenix 7 is doing more "things" and more "things" = less battery life. Fenix 7x battery life is still quite good though. Thanks for watching!

[@razznote7586]

@@ChaseTheSummit I am just concerned for the continuous recharging of the Fenix battery. As it is possible to have always on near the full charge rather than a healthy almost full discharge - charge cycle on the (non solar) Vertix watch. As when the battery is continously being charge whilst not getting discharge, will have a declining charge and battery health would not be as good as the non-solar one.

[@pedrovorpholiveira9154]

Garmin 👍

[@curtisdegidio2501]

Always love the videos, but I'm not too keen when you (and most other KZbinrs) say things like lots of number and oh no math. I think phrases like that, albeit light hearted, perpetuate the thought that numbers/math/data are difficult and can avoided.

[@BGRecon]

They serve a place but at the same time the new steam deck was just allowed benchmark data to be posted. I like those videos but they are definitely thick with info.

[@ChaseTheSummit]

I think you're over analyzing what I said. I wasn't doing math at all... just rattling off lots of numbers which can be a bit dense for someone to listen to. My comments about "hang in there with me" were merely a way of me saying "I'm going to read this... don't click away" lol. Certainly not intended to be an insult or make math seem difficult.

[@curtisdegidio2501]

@@ChaseTheSummit I don't think you meant it insulting and that is not the way I took it. I just hear phrases like that across all the KZbinrs I watch, especially those not based in science, math, etc, and happened to decide to comment this time. In no means meant to attack you or your videos. I just think a bit more of embracing those dense sections won't make them the parts where people might click away. Just like an ultra, don't speak something into existence. If we don't treat those parts as the tough parts, maybe they won't be as bad.

[@jamesgaskin7762]

Garmin 💪🏼

[@ChaseTheSummit]

It's a good one!

[@hesamedinhosseini7251]

Thanks for this video.The information that you provided is applicable and excellent.🌹🌹

[@ChaseTheSummit]

Glad it was helpful!

[@dnice362]

Every brand can try but garmin is number 1 by alot

[@ChaseTheSummit]

COROS is making a lot of progress though. It will be interesting to see what they do in a few years.

[@alexandergurov6059]

Great video Dave! Thank you for that :) I am about to choose between Vertix 2 and Fenix 7 base model (they are same price point) :D

[@ChaseTheSummit]

Tough call!

[@alexandergurov6059]

@@ChaseTheSummit hahah true :D

[@einarsgailitis4639]

If on this watch I can answer incoming calls an d see incoming messages?

[@ChaseTheSummit]

You can answer/decline calls but the watch doesn't have a speaker or microphone on board so you'll still need to talk into your phone.

[@eriktred]

I bought the epix(2). I’m just here because I have FOMO for both of the watches in this video 😜.

[@ChaseTheSummit]

The Epix is a beast! Good choice!

[@eriktred]

@@ChaseTheSummit I’m concerned battery won’t last duration of my next 50k. We will see!

[@ChaseTheSummit]

I think you'll be surprised.

[@HaiderAli-xh9lg]

Thank you

[@IgorBCamargo]

Perfect review!

[@ChaseTheSummit]

Glad you think so!

[@IvankoKnyaz]

Don't forget about Garmin Enduro 2. It has more battery life

[@ChaseTheSummit]

At the time of filming this video the Enduro 2 didn't exist.

[@IvankoKnyaz]

@@ChaseTheSummit Oh, time is running fast. Whaiting for fenix 8

[@SawYouDie]

@@IvankoKnyazwhen will it Drop ?

[@eugenioferretti2203]

Is it worth to buy a Fenix 6 Sapphire for 400€?

[@ChaseTheSummit]

That's a great price for a great watch!

[@finder2267]

I have been using Garmin devices for a long time, back to the Fenix 3HR and the edge 305. Personally i tired of new device specific features. I understand this is necessary sometime but many times it is not. Garmin really need to move to a global platform. I would be willing to pay for updates but i dont really care to spend $1k every few years. it gets old and is pretty annoying!

[@ChaseTheSummit]

This is a frustration for a lot of users but I think its more complicated than simply rolling out a feature to all users. There are hardware differences with screen resolutions, storage, cpu power, sensors, etc... that make certain aspects work. Also, with Garmin certain software features are "licensed" which costs additional money per-device. Think of it like buying a laptop with microsoft office pre-installed versus one without. Obviously the one with software costs more. At the end of the day they'll continue to do this otherwise people wouldn't upgrade if the features were the same on older devices. That's not just for sport watches, it goes for things like iPhones as well. Thanks for watching!

[@finder2267]

@@ChaseTheSummit of course there are hardware differences, that is a given. However a well written OS accounts for these issues just the same as windows, macOS do with different hardware configuration. As I said, Garmin could charge for major updates. The reason I said this was to address licensing. Those profits can go back into R&D to make better devices. People than have to routes. New device or use the one they have until it is no longer supported. It also adds an additional revenue stream and reduces waste. WatchOS and WearOS are examples of this. I’ll give Garmin a thumbs up for supporting devices with free updates for many years. But, this is also proof they can do this but choose hardware sales over everything else.

[@pedrovorpholiveira9154]

Thanks 👍

[@bobylapointe7975]

Just landed here while searching for an hiking watch. Fenix winning for maps ok but unfortunately since your test price dropped a lot on the Vertix 2. This is comparison between a 580€ and a 900€ device...

[@ChaseTheSummit]

The price gap has certainly changed. Though, the Fenix 6 is still available or the base model Fenix 7 at a lower price.

[@alanshrimpton6787]

Dave, there is one thing Garmin smashes and I say smashes all other brands. That's workout mode using pace. Garmin uses an average lap pace compared to Polar and coros uses actual current pace. For me I don't care if I'm running a little slower up a hill previding my avarage pace for the entire repeat is in tolarance. Last week I got the Coros Apex and still if I'm goi g to do a pace workout then I'll use my FR 935 everytime. The other thing even with all those GPS modes my Garmin 935 still out performs the Coros Apex. It's a shame when training load on Garmin is so wishy washy I would over train all the time. Their tolarance is too large a band and to rely on poor sleep data will make your body battery also poor. And why Garmin doesn't have a pace zones I just never know. I wished Coros had average pace for workouts and it would be a winner. Looks like it's back to HR Training again to use the coros.

[@ChaseTheSummit]

For sure, thanks for sharing.