Garmin Instinct Crossover Long-Term Review // The Best of Both Worlds

Long-term review of the Instinct Crossover Hybrid Sportswatch from Garmin. Does the concept actually work?
You can get the Crossover here: geni.us/Instin... (Amazon affiliate link that helps support the channel - thanks!)
Related Videos:
Garmin Instinct Crossover vs Instinct 2 Solar: • Garmin Instinct Crosso...
Thanks for watching!
/// Gear I Use (Amazon links) ///
Wearable: geni.us/Q6LJv2y
Bike GPS: geni.us/4cKAVA
Chest Heart Rate Strap: geni.us/hrm-pro
Arm Heart Rate Strap: geni.us/ESAv
Headphones: geni.us/tarahpro
/// Connect & Updates ///
Twitter: / getdesfit
Instagram: / getdesfit
Strava: / strava
Facebook: / getdesfit
Videos may contain affiliate links which can help support and grow this channel with no extra cost to you. Thanks for your continued support.
#garmin #garmininstinct #instinctcrossover

[@kevinyong5093]

omg .. just realize u are malaysian! so super amazing to know that a fellow malaysian is delivering super high quality content. thank you Desfit!

[@mrz4297]

Seriously he is Malaysian? Wow

[@thomasburns232323]

Plastic?

[@NeGarcon]

Serious la ?

[@Mike_Hoellwarth]

I love my crossover. It's my first Garmin watch, so I'm new to the whole ecosystem too, but loving it all so far.

[@maryannejumawan6444]

Same here it is my first Garmin watch i was planning to get Instinct 2 solar because it is more cheaper than the crossover solar but there is a promo here now that if you buy one instinct crossover solar tidal blue version you get one instinct solar for me which is a good deal i gave the free watch to my sister.

[@airmanfirstclass3535]

​@Mary Anne Jumawan that was such a good deal! Quick question, I've only seen this watch online. How does it wear in real life? Is it too big or too bulky? Heard it's 45mm × 45mm. My previous watch was 40mm

[@maryannejumawan6444]

@@airmanfirstclass3535 it's not too big. it's just like the g shock. and the size just fits in my wrist it's not too big for me or too small

[@airmanfirstclass3535]

@@maryannejumawan6444 thanks. That helps a ton

[@decline.enjoyer]

Your channel is really good. I’ve been presented with about a half dozen of your videos within my search for a new wearable, and you are such a clear, concise and well thought out KZbinr. You are definitely getting me as a subscriber. Keep up the good work.

[@DesFit]

Thanks so much!

[@LennartBongartz]

Thank you for this honest and nuanced review! I'm a big fan of analog hands, to tell time with just a glance. This kept me from getting a smartwatch before. Although I love my basic G-shock all black GA-2100, the bigger G-shock with smart and health functions are too 'rough' and clunky looking for my taste. The Crossover looks like a perfect blend of analog, digital and smart

[@anthonycorcella7300]

Garmin should do something like this on the Marq lineup. Make a REAL luxury watch that looks the part of more traditional luxury watches but still has the awesome Fenix backbone.

[@airmanfirstclass3535]

I would snap that up

[@hillogical]

I wish the Vivomove Lux would have been more like that. With the UTS, a better looking Vivomove, and an Epix/Fenix, there would be no reason to have anything else.

[@GamerNxUSN]

So does the marque not have the features? Because it sure looks and has the price of a luxury watch

[@LeeBoris974]

I love the idea of it, especially as a second watch with my Epix 2, since it supports the new Unified Training Status. But hoping you or DCRainmaker does a video soon to tell us how well that works. Hint hint. 🙂

[@MateHegyhati]

Thanks Des! I have just realized a neat feature while watching your video. Sometimes the handles actually cover the info I would like to see on the watchface. But... you can press the lap button, and it will move both handles a bit backwards for a sec. So that you can peek behind it. I don't know how I didn't realize this feature before, but it is a game changer for me 😀

[@DesFit]

Yup that was included with a firmware update since launch 👍

[@adimperial]

Had I known that I probably wouldn’t have returned it. It drove me mad. Also the Solar version was difficult to read for my aging eyes. I read the non solar is brighter

[@DaDonPJ85]

It is since the last 11.18 Firmware update

[@rafalg87]

Got one and I love it. One slightly negative thing is that the watch face can't fit as much data. On my 1st gen Instinct I had full time (date, hour, minute, seconds), weather, sunrise/sunset and one of the graphs. On the crossover there's no watch face that can fit all of those things at the same time. Not every watch face can even have seconds. It's no big deal, but I did find it surprising given that hour and minute are shown by the hands, so I expected there'd be as much or more space for widgets. Great review as always!

[@DesFit]

Good points you being up 👍 Thanks!

[@skunkeyebandit]

Can you get email, text and phone call info on watch

[@rafalg87]

@@skunkeyebandit Yes, you can. Any regular notification can be forwarded to your watch, and you can choose which apps you allow.

[@FiremanFrach]

Once again, great review. I love the Instinct series. Just a little picky, I know, but I wish the face was a little larger than 45 mm.

[@DesFit]

Thanks Paul!

[@pixel_lag_2595]

that bike helmet lamp is dope

[@DesFit]

Thanks!

[@mopm5188]

Very detailed vid. As always I think you didn’t mentioned the price difference between the crossover and the instinct any way you’re the best in sport’s tech ❤from 🇮🇱

[@DesFit]

Thanks!

[@ToloyKeripinMunsang]

Welcome to PJ. Do visit Kuching Sarawak too. Lots of national parks around to test your gears.

[@juergenbraun9726]

Solid and informative review, thank you. I repeatedly ran into issues regarding build-up of condensation water on the inside of the top display when using my instinct crossover solar outside in cold temperatures (39 °F/ 4°C). Garmin replaced the watch, just to experience the same problem again. Great watch, however, the display layers seem to have some inherent construction problems that should be sorted out by Garmin asap.

[@ArazgylychArazgylyjov]

I ran into the same problem this morning, I was running in cold weather and noticed condensation under the glass of my Crossover. I want to ask what you did after you received the second one with the same problems? This seems to be a problem with all Crossovers. Maybe I also need to change it, or leave it, or replace it with Instinct 2..?

[@god-son-love]

Garmin surly can smell where the market is going. They are always correct in sensing what people want.

[@ted363636]

Instinct Crossover is great but I can't live without maps on a watch. My dream device would be analog Fenix with some kind of transparent screen on top of it do display maps. Not sure if it's doable ;)

[@DesFit]

That would be cool! Maybe in like 7-10 years? :)

[@ted363636]

@@DesFit Just upgraded from 5 Plus to Fenix 7 so I can wait like 5 years :)

[@frankysour]

...and now waiting for a Fenix based watch with analog hands. Or possibly an epix2 one! I could even thing about an AMOLED watch in case it's looking as a proper timepiece when the beautiful bright display is off... I know, i know, it's just... Dreaming. Or is it? 🤣 Ow, and... Great video, btw 👋

[@jwmcateer3284]

Super thorough and informative video. Thanks. I have an older Garmin Forerunner 955 (2018ish) and the heart rate on that is abysmal compared to my Apple Watch (series 6). I love the concept of the crossover but was worried about HR. Based on your video it sounds like it’d be totally fine. I am a bit bummed about the weight though. To me the Apple Watch is too heavy (esp. compared to the 955) and at 65g I think that’s actually even heavier. Thanks for the solid, no-nonsense review. Well done.

[@GeorgeSapkin]

I hope they release a smaller version.

[@jestemkwita]

And more collors. Red, Orange or Pink ❤️🧡🩷

[@0nep0n]

I am interested to see how the new morning report feature looks like on the crossover.

[@athletejmv]

My favorite watch to date 😊

[@carlosmobellan9443]

Great video, good comparison of Garmin’s design choices

[@DesFit]

Thanks!

[@carlosmobellan9443]

@@DesFit Garmin seems to be using the Instinct as one of the places where they are willing to be more creative, even if there is a strong resemblance to the the G-Shocks as you mention

[@superrswalkthrougn]

I want a crossover between this crossover and vivomove trend. Basically the screen, functionality and durability of the instinct crossover and the more subdued design elements of the vivomove.

[@Mateusz-jl1sv]

They introduce paths to the maps for better orientation and climb pro and I’m buying it, hopefully not in ten years 😂

[@hendrikmintarno]

somehow this watch reminds me of G-Shock, awesome review!

[@DesFit]

Thanks!

[@bradnichols1004]

thank you , I want to get a smart watch but I don't know that much about them. my wife has the apple. but I hunt, fish, and hike. so, I need one more geared for the outdoors. and tough. so as it stands now I am torn between the crossover and the instinct 2. going to look at your other videos now ,although it would be easier on me if you would just tell me which one to buy, LOL.

[@mikevanvugt5271]

I wonder what watch you would recommend for climbing the Mont Blanc or something like that. I own a crossover, peak 9 pro and a forerunner 245. I am thinking of taking my gpsmap and a normal military specs watch. What would you do? Great channel by the way 😃

[@hitenrajguru1354]

Thanks so much for the thorough review. It seems like quite a bulky watch, how accurate would you say the sleep tracking is, and is it comfortable to wear at night?

[@ahakab]

Is it worth buying the crossover now in 2024

[@LoneWolf-nr1km]

As a new crossover user, yeah definitely. It's cheaper than the usual Garmin watch and works perfectly as both smartwatch and sport mode. Also it does feel more durable than other Garmin watches. Not to mention the aesthetic of the analog design, you'd love it if you're a fan of G-Shock type of watch

[@NiranjanAvate-l4f]

I’m planning to upgrade my Vivoactive after 4 years. What watch do you suggest… instinct crossover looks like a good bet Always love your videos !!!

[@DesFit]

Enjoy your upgrade and thanks!

[@GamerNxUSN]

Im so torn, I dont wear a smart watch currently, I wear a gshock 100 and was interested in this watch after my wife got a fitbit one, and then I went shopping and learned about the Fenix Pro 7 Saphire, and now I am trying to see if I want to pay an extra 400 dollars so I can have full maps and flashlight lol

[@E.T_rode_bikes_As_well]

I hope they release a bigger version.

[@nathancragg6202]

I suspect if 2X does well, they can make a crossover version

[@hardik020687]

Can u please show in the video how the cal and message notification look like

[@ginovanbelleghem8548]

I'm very curious for the Garmin Instinct 2X (solar) release! 57mm case are the rumours...😅

[@zwatotem]

If this watch had a crown instead of the Up/Down buttons I would consider a purchase, but I feel like this mode of operation is too cumbersome for me.

[@splatmatt]

@DesFit does the 16mm+ height (thickness) of the case cause any issues while wearing? Like catching on clothing, getting bumped, etc.

[@DesFit]

Never had any issues with bumping into things but it was more noticeable with long sleeves. Wasn't overly bothersome but with tight sleeves you may notice the height. Thanks!

[@manmikey65]

Another Great review, I have a question before I replace my instinct tho, How does the crossover indicate an alarm is set.on the watch face? From my research the complication that does this on my instinct is not available non the crossover? Could you confirm this please?

[@davestinyworkshopotherprojects]

very helpful, thanks.

[@ryandand]

Thank you for this great review! I'm an analog watch fan, but also want a smart watch that helps track activity, and am strongly considering this watch! I have a question about watch face customization. Is there any way to turn off all digital displays and only have them turn on when you tap the watch face or tilt your wrist? From all of the videos and images of this watch that I've seen, it appears the LCD display is always on no matter what. Is that the case?

[@laillosidgar]

it is. MIP technology are similar to e-ink in amazon kindle, wich is always on. But not the backlight

[@vincwong8498]

​@@laillosidgarwhat about power saver mode? Will that turn off the display and leave only the watch hands moving?

[@laillosidgar]

@@vincwong8498 it will not, save power only on sensor, such as heart rate, gps, compass, etc

[@vincwong8498]

@@laillosidgar u mean power saver mode only turn off the sensors?

[@Asdfghjkl-w3j]

could you please tell the lug to lug of crossover? and do you think Garmin will launch small version of crossover?

[@garreswe]

Is it possible to show both digital and analogue time at the same time?

[@dannykey1176]

Where did you buy the screen protector for this crossover watch please?

[@skunkeyebandit]

Does it display email and text messages, even phone calls

[@henriknylander]

Is it possible to have the compass as a watchface ”always on”?

[@juriaanoussoren]

Pretty slick bit the screen looks pretty bad on the sides in the video. I wonder if the glass i stringent OR weaker like this, kind of risky since you cant repair IT probably Otherwise the amazfit neo is the only way to go 🤣 But good to see some cross overs, te quite Nice to have no light up screen OR always brigtness 1 with tranflective LCD. Its something you can het quite used 2 on the longer term if you like ewatches. And going back to oled OR LCD dan be a pretty big downfall depending of youre usage OR watch OR personel prefernces

[@ruthuparnashetty5783]

Does Garmin instinct support running dynamic? if not then which is the cheapest watch that I can get which is compatible with hrm tri running dynamics?

[@sarahdavis1860]

What colour is that blue please?

[@The.JZA.]

I wonder if Garmin will be forced to use USB-C charging at some point? Apple got forced to use USB-C on the iPhones (a win for us all) so why doesn't Garmin have to conform as well? Their charging cable is crap. I've plugged my Garmin Enduro 2 in and walked away and then come back 2 hours later to find that it hadn't started charging. It was plugged in properly and everything. I had to unplug it and plug it back in and then it finally started charging.

[@DesFit]

The EU USB C initiative is for phones, tablets, cameras, and laptops. No major smartwatch has a direct USB C connection directly to the watch itself and a big issue here is water resistance at higher pressures.

[@MattRobertson-x8o]

What colour blue is that please?

[@waltinjr]

Does it measured kiteboarding?

[@splatmatt]

👍

[@DesFit]

🙌 Thanks Matt! Very much appreciated 👍

[@trd7538]

Hi Does this watch come with music?

[@2too]

if I start workout. Does analog hands still show what time is it? I don`t buy it if hand move to horizontal position if workout is going on.

[@DesFit]

Yes, they move to a horizontal position to have better visibility to what is being shown on the LCD display since those metrics (like heart rate, distance, speed, etc…) are important during a workout.

[@rsgt2023]

It's a shame it doesn't have the training readiness. Fr965 costs the same and of course has training readiness and nice display etc. I'm really a fan of the crossover also, but would really have wanted training readiness and can't really understand why it doesn't have it. Understand if instinct2 is not having that because it's cheaper watch... but with the same money compared to fr965...

[@DesFit]

The FR965 lacks the additional moving parts of the Crossover which add some cost to the manufacturing the device

[@rsgt2023]

@@DesFit Thats true. But I would be happy to pay even more on instinct crossover, if it had training readiness. Well, have to use two of their products now, one with cool hands and one with training readiness 😅 Many car manufacturers have an option to purchase additional software locked features like in finland you can buy software unlock for seat heaters for some models. Maybe Garmin should try that also 😅

[@fachry192]

Behold.. The crossover has training readiness now.,

[@harisz9976]

@@fachry192for real bro? If yes I want to buy crossover

[@fachry192]

@@harisz9976 training readiness? . It's been a while with the recent update

[@RigiLiquid945]

I think I would rather have a 2x solar tactical

[@ninovatekin3424]

Wow very beaituful

[@akcalder92]

Cool

[@DesFit]

🤙

[@rushleyva7718]

Does it have Training readiness ? Thanks

[@DesFit]

It does not

[@rushleyva7718]

@@DesFit thank you for the reply. Ur vids help a lot

[@maxchronicler]

This watch should be a little bigger. Too small for me but I like the concept of it.

[@splatmatt]

Curious, 45mm case x 16.2mm thick: how much bigger would you want? I have an 8" wrist and I have 42mm diver watches that look good on my wrist.

[@mbrackmann8]

Do you have 10” wrists? Lol this thing is MASSIVE.

[@DesFit]

Just putting in my 2 cents but for my 185mm circumference wrist I thought it fit well.

[@sohaibmohdyacop]

wow so you are malaysian?

[@daveannandale8177]

Worst watch I ever owned, so many problems frequently drops connection to the iPhone (every time I try to Synchronise) but no problem when I use a different watch, frequently loses settings, and factory reset more times than every other product I have or ever had, but still not solving the problems, bought direct from Garmin, not one reply to half a dozen emails, first within a month of receiving it. been using Gamin GPS products professionally for many years, several Sat Navs, and my 5th watch, used to have good support and service, but as I discovered with my Garmin Overlander, service is now non-existent, and that's being reinforced with my experience on this watch that does not do what it is supposed to and never has. Got my old Vivoactive 4 out, no problems with that. Seems possible problem with this product, but no one wants to actually do anything about it.

[@Simon89Jeppesen]

Worst lumen ever

[@BackDaws]

Garmin need to add a buggy/lawnmower mode, the step count is half compared to the phone in my pocket .