Garmin Instinct 2 vs Fenix 7: A Very Detailed Comparison

[@Jules-sn7pf]

I literally just traded in my Fenix7 for an instinct 2. The fenix is way too much of a smartwatch for me. The instinct is simple, doesn’t look like a “smart watch” and is a quarter of the price. I’m never looking back. Great review!

[@pk3]

How is it quarter of the price. Or may be it is where you live? Base instinct 2 is 350 USD and base Fenix 7 is 700 USD.

[@ZwmY]

After 6 hour on my tablet looking for the right garmin watch for me, thanks to you i know what to do, i m gonna buy an instinct 2

[@Matheus-ry8jl]

I have both, great watchs!!

[@Roger-il8iw]

Fenix 7 is far superior. The instinct 2 vs fenix 6 pro is the more relevant comparison.

[@DerekFletcher1]

I just came across your channel because I'm looking into getting a garmin watch. I then came across your written work and wow! There are few people out there who do such good written reviews anymore that are actually in depth and not just copy/pasting basic info from other sites. Thanks for doing all the leg work on everything you review.

[@Dcrainmaker]

Thanks!!!

[@sniffmatip3865]

I've been looking to get one for about 3 months now but dont know what one to get they all do so many things. Im going to use it for hiking, climbing and multi day treks. What model did you go for?

[@unifiedthrills]

@@sniffmatip3865me too, did you find one that you enjoy?

[@All4Grogg]

I was looking at the older gen fenix vs instinct, but now that I've seen that the instinct supports "Openwater Golf" I've decided it best if I just escape all civilization and live as a hermit.

[@dnserror89]

I chose the Instinct 2. In my opinion it looks better coming from wearing g-shocks, smaller and lighter which also makes sleeping with the watch more comfortable, cheaper, and breadcrumb navigation is good enough for me. Thanks!

[@frogturtle]

i will be upgrading from the gshock GWM5610U…a watch i love and will keep, but i wanted just a few more useful tools beyond time functions

[@hapajels]

Female fenix 7s owner here. I wanted to love the Instinct 2S but I found the screen TINY and difficult to read. The 2 might have larger font but was too big for my wrists. Happy with the 7s so far despite the price, but I'm seeing it as a long-term investment :)

[@rpnvg]

Honestly, I think the Instinct 2 looks so much cooler and more durable than the Fenix 7. I think this video helped me decide that the Instict 2 Solar will suit my needs just fine. Thanks for these videos!

[@dnserror89]

Same, absolutely love the design of the Instinct 2. Had one for a few weeks now, it's great! You still enjoying yours? Cheers.

[@NewPolishScientist]

Best watch I ever owned. I had Samsung watch and older Fenix and instinct 2 solar is fabulous. Battery life is amazing

[@chrisw3327]

I came close to buying a Fenix 6 but went for an upgrade from my Instinct Solar to an Instinct Solar 2. In the end, it was the fact that 6 years is probably the realistic upper end for device support from Garmin and that the F6 is already 3 yrs old which pushed me in the IS2 direction. Hard decision though. None of the options are bad at all. Garmin are on top form at the moment. My 2 yr old Instinct Solar is like new. The fibreglass case and silicone strap are so tough. Also, no noticeable sign of even minor battery degradation.

[@GutoAmorim]

Man, this review was so good! Garmin has so many models that's hard to chose or even upgrade (my case). The instinct is so different yet similar to the Venu and Fenix and you went straight to the important points. Thank you!

[@goatsplitter]

I used your videos to make a purchasing decision. I ultimately went with the Instinct 2 Solar for the battery life as a main feature, along with your tests showing that (generally) the GPS and altimeter are pretty close. To me, the extra money wasn't worth the things I wasn't going to use the watch for. Primarily for mountain biking and backpacking - and I've gone 38 years without any digital help at all as far as navigation so just a simple no-maps but coordinate/direction is totally fine. And, the instinct 2 is on sale as of this comment whereas the fenix 7 is not so the price gap is just that much greater. Thanks for your info on the watches!

[@gpwildcat77]

I'm thinking the same, new to the mountains/hiking/etc. but I always download a map on my phone via Alltrails Pro (have an old beat up Android that I use when I go out) and don't think I'd need the detailed map on the Fenix since I'd (almost) always have the map available on my phone. That should be more than enough when going out right? Just can't think of a scenario where I'd need a detailed map on my watch, even when doing the tall mountains here in Utah. Most of the trails seem to be well-defined and clear when I'm on them

[@backroadssingletrack]

Thanks for the comparison on these two. I'm considering upgrading my old Instinct and this was helpful. I do like the maps option on the Fenix but I'm not sure it is worth the extra cash for me. I currently use the Explore app when I need to see a topo view since the breadcrumb on the Instinct isn't very helpful for me. The Fenix does have some neat features, but the Instinct 2 solar might be the better value for my needs. Thanks again for your videos, you helped me decide on my original Instinct years ago.

[@shorne1111]

Another informative and useful video. Thank you! There is one painfully obvious difference between the Instinct and other Garmin watches that I don't believe you covered at all. Readability. Garmin's monochrome screens have more contrast and are far easier to read than the color MIP screens. That difference was very evident in the screen shots you shared during this video. This issue is even more severe for Garmin's bike computers. With a watch it is pretty easy to change the angle of view to improve contrast. But that is simply not possible with bike computers. I can't tell you how many times I have cursed my Edge 830 because I could not see the display well enough to make out what it was telling me. Here again, the Edge 130 is better. I owned the Edge 130 for a while before upgrading the 830. If I complain to Garmin they will ignore me. But if you point out this shortcoming, they will listen to you. The answer, at least for the bike computers, is to offer each model in color and monochrome versions, and let the user decide which feature is more important. For me, I'll take readability over muted colors any day.

[@MattSwain1]

I love my Fenix 6 but if I was choosing between these two I’d go Instinct, no doubt at all. I’m not a fan of touchscreens on watches (so I’d be paying for a feature I’d turn off on the F7), colour is nice but not essential and as I’m primarily a cyclist these days a lot of the missing features are covered by my bike computer anyway. I’d mainly be sad about the lack of on device music for the small amount of running I do but it’s hard to argue with that gaping chasm between the prices.

[@cheeheifoo9282]

Thanks! I didn't know that the Sony chipset could have difficulties near built up areas. That's what's been happening to me. It's insights like that from you that make the difference.

[@ronschroeder4087]

I went instinct 2 solar. I do a lot of ocean paddling and the seawater renders the garmin chargers unreliable within a year. I also prefer the instinct 2 monochrome display as it has more contrast that you can read easier in sunlight. All I really need is a readable display for speed, distance, time, save track and upload to Strava, with charging that doesn't use the Garmin cables, so 99% of features won't get used. I long for my old 910XT clip on charger, but that was stolen.

[@Fr4nkSanchez]

Do you have notification from iphone?

[@ronbeau]

@@Fr4nkSanchez I don't think so. I use the garmin for paddling and usually don't have my phone. It's not a feature I care about, so don't know if it's on or off.

[@openbruno]

Thank you Ray! I was watching the review of instinct 2 and was saying that "No way Ray didn't measure the lux outside!!!"

[@Dcrainmaker]

Hahaha...yeah, I was bummed I forgot my lux meter for one of my trips. I have a little app though that's actually surprisingly accurate (within 5% or so), as long you apply a cover to it.

[@maermann]

Thank you for a great comparison. I’m on the fence (still wearing a Fenix 3). Your argument for the Fenix 6 makes a lot sense and that’s what I’m going to get (on sale.)

[@7rixee]

These videos are such a treasure trove. Nice graphics, thank you a year after 😊

[@jumbleross]

I’m liking the altimeter locking to the mapset on Fenix7. I have the FR645 which I love but the barometer is not very accurate when doing an MTB ride. Although I do prefer a lighter watch so perhaps still hold out for next gen FR945 🤔

[@debbiemiller4281]

I absolutely love the 6X & 7X. I think they're the most beautiful watch designs ever. I really wish I could afford one. I've gotten into watches in the past couple years & my dream watch has been a 6X & 7X came out. God I love them. Garmin did such a spectacular job.

[@Seahawks1976]

Yes Washington State shirt! Prettiest state in the country. Great video as always

[@Dcrainmaker]

Indeed, born and raised!

[@jillianmarie77]

This is exactly what I needed to know. Thank you!

[@MateHegyhati]

Thanks, really nice video. Although you forgot the most important feature that both of these units have: alarm clock! 😀

[@Dcrainmaker]

Hahaha, yeah, I could have spent hours with all the similarities!

[@edwardfletcher7790]

Really ? I would never expect that high end feature.... SIGH

[@adamh8140]

One quick question, if the instinct 2 completely died from running out battery, could you charge it to turning on under solar only?

[@ChrisC-cy7uu]

Great, concise comparison. This is so much more digestible, then I can heck our your more in-depth videos. Tempting to replace my Fenix 5 ;)

[@jmack23]

This is just the review I needed. I was on the fence about which one to get and truly what I plan on using it for. Fenix 7 solar is looking like the route I will take. Thanks for your help. Liked and subscribed!

[@Catcrumbs]

I think the premium look of the Fenixes is worth mentioning as well. For me, the Fenix looks good enough to wear just about all the time, while the Instinct doesn't look as classy. Then again, a more understated look can have its own advantages.

[@Dcrainmaker]

Yup, good point. I think in many ways the Instinct is so unique that either people love it or hate it. Whereas something like a Forerunner series is a bit more neutral in comparison.

[@Unam469]

That shit doesn’t look classy lol

[@Catcrumbs]

@@Unam469 it's all relative.

[@mmam1986]

You are out of your mind if you think any of these watches are classy 😂 Do you wear a tuxedo t-shirt or a duck dynasty camo suit?

[@Catcrumbs]

@@mmam1986 One is definitely classier than the other.

[@ChaseTheSummit]

05:26 Fenix 7 be like "Yo, I know where the ocean is"

[@Dcrainmaker]

"And ocean equals zero!" 😂

[@deriusbrown25]

I have the Fenix 6 pro and the instinct solar. I have to say they are both good. I find myself falling in love with the Fenix because of all the Xtra features. But I prefer the instinct solar in the summer.

[@WarfareJournal]

Which do you prefer in the winter?

[@sammmm87]

Which do you prefer in spring?

[@erdeijozso]

Which do you prefer in autumn 🤣

[@vinugholap]

Hello! Could you make a comment on the difference in the sensors Elevate 3.0 vs Elevate 4.0? What are the major upgrades with the new Elevate 4.0? I am confused between getting the Instinct 2 which has Elevate 4.0 but also find Fenix 6 at a great discount. Thanks!

[@huachinango]

this is a good full review!, you answered all my questions, thanks

[@smithe68]

Great review and comparison. I ordered the Fenix 7X Sapphire Solar before I knew the Instinct 2 Solar was coming with a full triathlon mode and a few other features that I use that the the Instinct 1 didn’t have. I might just have gotten the Instict 2 it’s a crazy great deal for someone who does a lot of outdoors activities. Love the shirt Ray.

[@Max.527]

That's because you're rich 🤣

[@smithe68]

@@Max.527 🤣 I wish!

[@jpd4376]

I bought an Instinct 1 last year (on your excellent reviews advice!) and would be curious about a comparison of the durability of these two watches? Part of the draw of the instinct line for me is how bomb proof they are, and thats important when your out hiking and crashing through the back country.

[@Dcrainmaker]

I think it depends a bit on how the damage might be done. For example, in my main Insitnct 2 Review video, I show throwing three Instinct 2 units against nasty lava rocks from a few meters away - not a scratch. I'd be hesitant to do that same test with three Fenix 7 units. But at the same time, that's a bit unusual. For day to day bonks and stuff, the Fenix 7 holds up just fine. It's the plastic case on the Instinct that seems to give a bit more (plus, the screen is lower down in it).

[@nathancragg6202]

Two fairly nasty combat tours didn’t phase my Fenix5X. Instinct is probably even more protected with the recessed screen. I think you’d be hard pressed to find anyone that’s broken more than the wrist band

[@scotw67]

Great comparison!! I’m definitely getting the Instinct 2. The slide highlighting the differences in the sport profiles lists “Open Water Golf.” I think you have a typo! 😉

[@JohnBay4]

I ordered an Instinct 2 Solar for work. I’ll be working outside and hiking a lot for work. Also, the silent alarm and notifications will help me out a lot. I have a fenix 6 pro but I’ll save that for use at home. The Epix 2 looks fantastic and would be my upgrade if I were heading in that direction.

[@FrankZen]

I have the Instinct Solar as my daily watch and the Fenix 5X Plus as my workout watch. Instinct 2 looks like I might be able to cut down to one watch! I won't miss the music because syncing is unbearable anyway and I'll probably go back to mp3...

[@ryanwood2793]

I have the exact same set up, for the same reasons and was thinking the same.

[@derekharper6031]

Agree with you on the music. In most cases if you can have a phone with you then downloaded play lists is a simple option. And let's face it for some of features on these watches you need a phone signal anyway..

[@igoropulas]

Instinct 2 mapping: "Your direction is there.... good luck" 😂😂 Nice and very clear, Ray :-)

[@TCinSoCal]

Love my Fenix 6X. Best piece of gear I own.

[@ohmslaw6856]

Bought the instinct 2.. highly impressed, has everything you truly need.. anything else is extra

[@frogturtle]

as a huge fan of the simplicity and reliability of the g-shock GWM5610U, i am way more drawn to the instinct 2 solar than the fenix. the maps are undoubtedly awesome but tbh even just something to keep me from getting lost in an unfamiliar area is good enough, and it can still work well with a physical trail map. it is a “just enough” watch and i love the infinite battery potential which is one of ,y favorite aspects of the g-shock besides durability

[@inakilrg]

Thanks, Ray. Awesome review once again. Thanks!

[@Dcrainmaker]

My pleasure!

[@Kayzef2003]

I just bought the Venu 2 plus. BUT this Instinct 2 solar is off the chain. Definitely selling the Venu.

[@Dcrainmaker]

It's quite a different beast, yet super powerful.

[@toddkearney6464]

Thank you for the valuable comparison. This was a helpful video.

[@andrewvillavicencio8496]

Thank you! I am done with my Instinct I went back to Apple after having all kinds of issues with my Garmin Instinct Solar. Battery would last only a few days and it shuts down when starting an activity. Garmin forums FULL of complaints.

[@sl-rt5kv]

I wonder about the readiibility of Fenix 7 vs Instinct 2 displays in various lighting conditions and viewing angles? In this video comparison, the Instinct screen appears to my eyes to be consistently more vibrant and readable than the more muted display on the Fenix. I bring this up because as a Fenix 6 sapphire owner, I find that the screen is often frustratingly difficult to read in many lighting conditions. Yes I can work around that by pressing the backlight button, but I expect to be able to read basic watch output at a glance, like date and time, without having to push buttons or change viewing angles. I find this aspect of the Fenix 6 to be very annoying, almost to the point where it is a gamebreaker.

[@theronwolf3296]

Some other reviews have pointed out that the monochrome screen is clearer to read.

[@piotrw2108]

It actually is by a mile.

[@33scottyp]

I’m an owner of both. The Instinct 2 Solar is far more readable indoors than the Fenix series. I rarely need to use the backlight on my I2S where my Fenix needs it often.

[@elmachomen]

So are you living now in Tenerife? I was born there. So good to find little snipets of it on your channel (if you want me to give you info about routes that you should definitely do, I'm more than happy to). Great comparison too, as always! I personally just bought a Coros Apex and couldn't be happier right now, the battery life is absolutely bonkers.

[@Mitstel]

I think one consideration that is worth mentioning with regards to the Instinct 2, is that it seems to be geared towards military operators. It has settings for HAHO/HALO (High Altitude, High/Low Open), security features like wiping your data, silent mode, night optics compatibility, that sorta thing. From that perspective, the differences between the Fenix and the Instinct are a bit broader. The Fenix would not be as useful to folks who find those features valuable, where those who don't may not find the Instinct as valuable. Great video, really good review. Thank you for being so in-depth.

[@flighted2513]

the Tactix is those combined.

[@CarrieJamrogowicz]

Well I’m glad they finally have an S version of the Instinct, I ordered and returned that watch twice, I wanted to like it so badly but it was just way too big for me. I ended up with a Fenix 7S so they got my money anyway 😆

[@KYspeaksfood]

I think once you've gone Garmin, they'll always have our money.. these stuff are just too damn good

[@nice4612]

Instinct 2S bigger than Fenix 7S?

[@electronicbagatelle]

curious too I tried the 7s and it felt a bit big in height for me and am worried I will just bash it everywhere and wanted to try the instinct 2s but i haven't found it in any shops yet, why did you not like it?

[@marcofioretti5915]

Topographic maps on the Fenix are reassuring to have, you never know when you might need them in the wild..

[@hristogavrilov]

Please compare Instinct 2 solar vs Descent G1 solar. On paper the Descent looks like an identical watch with added diving capabilities.

[@mandaloresmercy]

Still new to it but loving my instinct 2 solar so far. And i love how it doesn't look like a smart watch too. My goal is to see how long i can go without plugging it in

[@RagnarokLoW]

one thing you didnt seem to mention is how much more visible the instinct 2 is in the sun because they use e-paper displays. They get brighter in the sun

[@myralchista]

Garmin don't want him to say that, probably. I think this trashy fenix displays should be discontinued and replaced with amoleds or pure black/white e-links. Or maybe there is a way to put e-link on top of amoled and enable it during standby.

[@highlanderes]

The elephant in the room.

[@argieessex]

Fenix 5X owner for past 5 years. Settled for Instinct 2 Solar, just don't use maps, fk touchscreens and can live with something smaller and cheaper.

[@jeffrey292]

Just bought the instinct 2 for €200 compared to the fenix 6 or 7 this is a bargain. Very happy with it so far!

[@travisgoff7252]

I'm wondering, is the Fenix as tough as the instinct? Because I do a lot of work outside, and when I had a Vivoactive 4, the glass would scratch up. Would that happen in the Fenix as well or is that a tougher watch?

[@Filthysvk]

New functions are great but that design is awful. It's step back. Instinct Solar 1 had better design but nowadays it's out. I expected more.

[@christianguinand4170]

What might someone here recommend for wildland firefighting between the instinct 2 solar and the Fenix 6 pro? I am finding them for similar prices (sales on the Fenix) and cannot decide. The Battery on the I2 is great, probably the same with the ruggedness, but I like the features of the Fenix as well.

[@jacktom9940]

Up

[@derekharper6031]

Go with the best battery you can as that becomes way more important imho

[@johndoeatr]

Great video as always. Also greetings from Greece. I have a question about the garmin line up. With the release of Instinct 2 what purpose of existence for FR745? I mean it seems garmin cannibalism its lineup. If I'm new for purchasing a new garmin watch, I want a do it all watch below of 500€, the most logical thought is to go for the Instinct 2, which is 150€ less. What is your opinion? Thank you a lot.

[@myralchista]

The visibility on instinct is a lot better than on Fenix. On fenix everything is washed out and not bright. It's better to get instinct or epix, I think.

[@sup5469]

uffff the prices on the fenix 6 are crazy right now. i was planning to get the instinct 2, but just now spotted the fenix 6 pro solar for 450€ which is absolutely insane

[@juniorsegovia116]

I got a 6x sapphire for $500 but man I want to love it but it’s a bit big 😂

[@KYspeaksfood]

where do you find that?

[@juniorsegovia116]

@@KYspeaksfood had a local guy sell it to me but honestly I want to downgrade to the 6 pro solar or 6 pro sapphire. This one is like new and all but I can’t justify the bulky fit.

[@carl_weatherzzz7386]

I just purchased a Fenix 7 and I already feel rotten for retiring my trusty Instinct 1. It was more comfortable, and while not as pretty, the buttons alone were much better.

[@arshadarifek7351]

Huwaei GT4 prices £199 and Garmin instinct 2 standard for £185 .Among these 2 watches which is compatible for i phone and accurate health monitoring

[@robj3773]

Great video. I'm surprised Garmin couldn't find a way to support the Varia Radar. I get that the display is limited but still think it could be done. Outside the Netherlands I think most cyclists feel safer with the Radar.

[@Dcrainmaker]

Yup, I agree, a very odd omission.

[@stevek8829]

That would be annoying. You'd have to be getting constant alerts and then looking at your wrist. A constant barrage of notifications gets old.

[@MrElmarees]

Garmin added support for lights and radar since 8.04 firmware.

[@felixkonradzimmermann6038]

Could you please tell me what watchface is shown in the video and if it impacts the battery life compared to the one’s from garmin? I already settled for the fenix 7 solar but it is still interesting to see your comparisons. The long battery life would be awesome for my longer adventures in Sweden but in this case I would miss the maps. I had a forerunner 645 so far so I know it can be difficult to navigate just with the breadcrumb trail. Your videos also helped me to decide between fenix or epix, so thanks for that 👍

[@caleb6048]

You should do a comparison of the Descent G1 Solar vs the Instinct 2 Solar, particularly as it relates to battery life. Also I think a lot of fit people would be interested in a watch that actually has a depth gauge for free diving, and I’m personally curious how well the Descent G1 would work for some casual free diving/snorkeling/spear fishing

[@ashishm5763]

want a gps RUNNING watch on 200$ budget , gps accuracy is key and i use no other gear with that which watch should i go for garmin 55, coros pace 2 , a polar or any other

[@polluxtroy2010]

Thanks for this!, I’m torn if saving a bit and go for Fenix 6 or wait to for either the Instinct 2 or Fenix 7

[@TransAm2k4]

crazy comparison: If i have a 920xt and don't mind using a HRM strap (I have HRM PRO) is there a significant improvement to go into this instinct?

[@bonngt]

How about instinct 2 vs 255 since they are at the same price point. Thanks

[@YouTubedarek]

Getting my first Garmin watch (coming from an AW3) and this is the video I've been waiting for! Thanks!!! Fenix 7 SS has been ordered!

[@brettbrunsell5769]

DC what’s the better buy instinct 2 or forerunner 255?

[@jungbikash4834]

Please help me ! Which one is better Fenix 7 or Instinct 2 Solar

[@mattwhyte3813]

Thank you!

[@andresk83]

I have another question, Garmin instinct 2 standard or the Fenix 6S?

[@michaelpusey6341]

Is the link to the Fenix 6 deal just going to Fenix 7? Great reviews!

[@monoplastzeljo2582]

The fenix 7x sapphire solar watch has a major drawback, the screen in the menu as well as the messages that arrive when the phone is connected to the watch are set to black background and pale blue text (due to the poor finish of the sapphire glass, there is no white color, but pale blue color) and that text is hard to read. There is no option like on older models of garmin watches to change the background to be white or pale gray and the text to be black, which would be more legible. (Inverter color or display color setting). As soon as you sweat a little around your eyes during activities, you can't see clearly, or if you have a smaller (+ eye diopter) for reading, which most people over 40 have the same problem, you strain to read what is written on the screen. Otherwise, the watch is excellently made, but this problem with the screen and the lack of an option to set the background to be white or gray and the text to be black, which is more pleasant and legible for the eye, makes the garmin fenix 7x sapphire solar watch unusable for many people and if not documents in some software update the watch is a complete and utter failure. I found a lot of the same comments in several forums which says that the problem is not innocuous.

[@Calebcz]

What are those two chart data fields exactly at 10:00? I had similar ones on Vivoactive 3 from ConnectIQ, but now I cannot find anything like this for Fenix 6s. Thank you

[@Dcrainmaker]

:) Those are the new 'Graphical' data charts on the Fenix 7. So in that case, shown from top to bottom I've configured it as: Stamina (how much energy I have left), Heart Rate (graphical), and Elevation (graphical). I think it's roughly a 30-45 minute trend of those.

[@Calebcz]

​@@Dcrainmaker Thank you. They look exactly as some old ConnectIQ datafields, which are unfortunately not available for Fenix6, because they are most probably already abandoned. I heard rumors that Stamina feature is not coming to Fenix6, so let's see if the graphical data charts will be backported, technically they might.

[@BigBossSalazar]

Thanks for the great video!

[@yogiyoda]

The Instinct 2's screen looks brighter and more legible. The Fenix 7 display looks very dull. Is that a camera artifact, or is it like that in real life?

[@Dcrainmaker]

It's pretty much real-life. Inversely though, the Fenix 7 has a larger screen, so it kinda makes up for it in readability - making that mostly a wash.

[@yogiyoda]

@@Dcrainmaker -Thanks for answering!

[@odysseyalternative]

Great review man! Thanks!🙏🏼

[@KellyRobinette]

Awesome video! Very informative. I am currently trying to decide between the Instinct 2 Solar and the Fenix 6 pro solar. I’ve got hiking and camping trips (not backcountry) planned this spring and summer so battery life and GPS is a consideration. But, my regular exercise routines involve a lot of walking/hiking, jumping rope, HIIT type workouts and some strength training. This watch will likely replace my Apple Watch so which one is more accurate for tracking those kinds of workouts, in your opinion? My outdoor activities also include swimming (lakes, rivers, ocean) and yard work (chopping, digging, gardening, brush clearing, etc). Thank you so much for the work you put into this review and I hope to hear back from you.

[@kevinbungles]

Good review, clear concise and well delivered

[@pavelperina7629]

Thanks. I checked that instinct is roughly 25 percent cheaper. No solar version.

[@NazSBG]

I'm close to buying an unused Instinct 2s Solar for £150. Here in the UK they are selling for over £300. The seller states on selling site that it is an unwanted Christmas present. I've seen the pictures, all boxed, even seen the purchase receipt. I want to know if the 2s is good for mens wrists or is it more for women being a smaller size? I'm a 6ft 3" male with slim wrists.

[@jp119]

Hey great review. I currently wear instinct version one, and love it, would I upgrade, maybe for more features and solar..... I would remain with Instinct, its simple and functional and it weighs next to nothing, in fact a big thing for me, I barley know its there. I do wish Garmin would make better use of screen and give us more viewable screen, could be done if they trimmed a couple of mm from bezel... here's hoping

[@joestory803]

I just got the instinct 2 solar the other day. Now today I saw the Fenix 7 multi sport GPS solar. It's only $150 more wondering if it's worth it in the long run? Any feedback would help thanks.

[@SpaceExplorer31]

Why does the Fenix 7 display look so dim compared to the Instinct 2?

[@Dcrainmaker]

Because it actually is. The crispness on the Instinct series display is a key selling point for some.

[@SpaceExplorer31]

@@Dcrainmaker Thanks for answer!!

[@MillenniumFalcon]

Thanks for the experienced review.

[@officialWWM]

I looking for a tough, outdoors watch with solar charging. I’m more into fishing and camping than running etc. which model would you suggest for me? Mapping and elevation isn’t really important to me as I have other devices for that. Cheers.

[@alancampbell6236]

What a price increase! I bought a new Fenix 1 with monochrome display, track navigation and even unofficial simple OSM maps in 2014 for 280€!

[@Dcrainmaker]

Yup, times have changed! Though, feature-wise the Instinct 2 blows away the Fenix 1 in pretty much every category. I suspect we'll also see DWMaps support the Instinct at some point.

[@alancampbell6236]

@@Dcrainmaker True, but the question is which functions are relevant and which are just gimmicks - also refers to the F7/Epix!

[@Dcrainmaker]

@@alancampbell6236 Ultimately, one person's gimmick is another person's most important thing. And like most luxury things, some features just make things easier in life.

[@ryanmacdougall3740]

@@Dcrainmaker but if your are trekking you probably have your phone... If you have the instinct you'll have Garmin explore installed. You can use that no?

[@Dcrainmaker]

@@ryanmacdougall3740 True, and there are countless times I'll check my phone for maps. But, there are also lots of cases where I don't want to do that - such as when it's cold with driving rain and taking my hands/fingers in and out of gloves numerous times. All depends on the scenario.

[@davidparizeaugratton9108]

What woud you do???? Save up to buy the Fenix 7 or buy the Fenix 6 or Instinct 2 solar???

[@thomasbailey4139]

Do I want solar on my instinct 2 or just use a battery pack if I go on a trail overnight?

[@leonidassq]

Hey Ray! Is it worth to buy Fenix 6 Titanium over base 7? I have them in similar price. I heard about fenix 7 issues with screen glare so i'm afraid of that. Would you help me choose? I really like the looks and weight of 6 titanium, also sapphire glass will be good.

[@Dcrainmaker]

Hmm, I'd probably go Base 7 over titanium Fenix 6 - mainly since you'll likely lock in another 2-3 years of new features. But that's just me.

[@zyghom]

Instinct 2 is closer to Forerunners like 7xx or 9xx rather than to Fenix - such comparison would be super nice ;-)

[@Dcrainmaker]

Indeed, I could go all-day on creating these comparisons. 😂

[@TimStacey]

hi Ray, great vid as usual thamks. Is it me or is that fenix 7 screen resally dull? Thinking i’ll get the 7x as use for walking / hiking, skiing and golf BUT is the screen good enough? Epix might be better but battery life and no solar right?

[@cd9954]

The epix is the worst battery life… Correct, no solar.

[@TimStacey]

@@cd9954 but the screen on the fenix is good enough to read?

[@cd9954]

@@TimStacey yes 0 issues

[@MrNikMic]

At 5:21 you mention that the Fenix 7 has the ability to lock the elevation to the known good elevation from the map. Can you do this on the Fenix 6 too?

[@Dcrainmaker]

Yup! Both work the same way there. Happens by default actually.

[@KYspeaksfood]

Venu also does not do this, a bit annoying since I'd always have to go in and overwrite the readings on Connect.

[@jumbleross]

Does the FR945 do this too?

[@markraines8138]

Howe about a comment on the comparison of the robustness of the case material

[@mckonal]

today İ bought a second-hand (used for two months and then packed and a clean one) instinct 2 solar blue for 350 dollars. it was a bargain right? upgrading to that from forerunner 55. being basically a runner myself, open water swimming and living in antalya (a 10 month sunny place) have affected my decision.

[@Homer19521]

Garmin Instinct 2, Graphite $250 at Costco 11/28/2022

[@iniki1234]

Aside from the dive features could this be a good comparison between the Descent G1 to the Mk2?

[@JTroth]

I’m really struggling between instinct solar 2 and forerunner 945 but i don’t really see the differences in the two.