Garmin’s New Heart Rate Sensor // Epix Pro Gen 2 & Fenix 7 Pro Review

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Note: GPS was set to “auto select”
Timestamps:
00:00 Intro
01:54 Heart Rate Test 1: Spinning
07:15 Heart Rate Test 2: Cycling
11:40 Heart Rate Test 3: Running
15:10 Heart Rate Test 4: Weight Lifting
20:16 Heart Rate Test 5: Daytime
21:55 Sleep Test: Main Results
25:23 Sleep Test: Comparison To Other Watches
26:55 Conclusions
Intro:
Garmin just introduced a new generation of their heart rate sensor as part of what are basically the most expensive Garmin watches you can currently buy. However, is this actually an improvement over the old Garmin sensor? In this video we’re going to put it to the test. I tested this sensor in the just released Garmin Epix Pro Generation 2 and also in the Garmin Fenix 7 Pro. The Fenix 7 Pro will set you back about 800 dollars, whereas the Epix Pro Gen 2 set me back a whopping 1000 dollars. The most important aspect of this new sensor in my opinion is the fact that it might lead to better heart rate accuracy during workouts, and that is what I’ll be focussing on in this video. We’ll test both these new watches at the same time during many different types of exercises and at the same time compare them to results for the old generation sensor. I’ll also give you a sneak-peak at some of the sleep stage tracking tests, which might also benefit from a different sensor.
Conclusion:
Overall, I don't think that the Epix 2 Pro and Fenix 7 Pro are bad at Sports and Health tracking, at least not based on my initial testing. However, I'm not sure if the new sensor is really a significant enough Improvement over the older sensor to warrant the high price of these devices. Now, don’t get me wrong, I do understand these devices have many many more features that I didn't address in this video, since this is not the type of thing I tend to test. For testing of those particular outdoor and extreme sports features, there are other great channels out there like for instance DC Rainmaker , Desfit, Matt Legrand, Chase the Summit and many more. I tend to focus on health and Sport metrics I can systematically compare to some type of reference, and that is what I report to you here, which is in my opinion the most value I can add to KZbin. So, based on my testing, I would say that if you're already rocking an original Epix 2 two or Fenix 7, I wouldn't be too jealous of the new heart rate sensor; at least not yet. I do see some potential minor improvements already; but that is what it seems to be, a minor improvement.

[@mlegrand]

Oh wow! I just noticed the shout out at the end of the video. You are too kind!!! I really tried hard to find a significant difference while swimming, biking and running with the new HR sensor but it was tricky to compare the Elevate 4.0 to the 5.0. The way you've compared this by activity type is the correct way to do it. I think that's a hard concept for people to figure out. Some activity types are harder than others for optical HR sensors. We're also both similar in skin tone. I'd love to see more data on a larger population with different skin tones. Amazing video as always Rob!!!

[@TheQuantifiedScientist]

Thanks so much Matt! This is really appreciated :-)

[@victoryu7820]

Thanks for getting this analysis so quick. Aside from the flashlight, the new HR sensor was an important selling feature. It appears this isn’t the accuracy leap that I was hoping for. Thanks for analysis and content. Also, very kind of you to shout Matt LeGrand, Chase the Summit and others on your channel.

[@Mannex17]

yeah pretty disappointing considering garmin has some of the nicest exercise and hiking features in the OS. I guess they'll still need to be paired with a chest strap to be fully nice. looks like I'll be sticking with my Huawei Fit 2 for now.

[@TheQuantifiedScientist]

Thanks so much for the kind comment!

[@Doniyorbek_Turgunov]

Most probably, they will fix it with the soft next update...

[@lechprotean]

@@Doniyorbek_Turgunov yeah, I can;t imagine the hardware senson on the Apple Watch 8 is actually that much better - it's just the algorithms that compensate for watch vs wrist movement are probably better..

[@Michael-vf5id]

Garmin have always been pretty inaccurate i wouldnt rely on them for a sport watch. I seen a guy with 3 fenix 7 and they all had differant heart rates hence why i never bothered buying one.

[@vinay8429]

I find your quantitative approach very convincing to make a decision about the quality of a product. Thank you!

[@joskamps4711]

Hey Rob, fantastic video, as a fellow PDRA, I just love your systematic approach to analysing these watches. Have you considered making a video about the fundamentals of how these devices track for instance heart rate?

[@martinshotpost]

blown away by the extremely high quality in every aspect: content, didactics,editing 😅💪👏👌 Seems like device weight impacts accuracy. Have you considered adjusting the models with the weight of the device? This could help stratify across device makers with regards to sensor&Software accuracy. However seems like Apple really nailed it in every measurement aspect😅 Looking forward to your even more in depth review🤗💥

[@garrythompson9583]

I recently purchased a titanium Fenix 7 saphire solar, after spending several hours on U tube & I'd like to comment on the accuracy of the sleep tracker; in a word, impressed. If I wake up during the night, I make a note of the time, if I remember any sort of dream I record it. I then check my sleep tracker first thing upon waking up in the morning and up to now, it hasn't missed a beat. I've also compared the heart rate sensor with a medical grade cuff sensor, and again, bob on. Navigation, as most would atest, is pretty near perfect and doesn't really warrent discussion.

[@Therevolution7]

Thanks for this info, I am looking to get that exact watch

[@derksenjenny]

I went from an Apple Watch Ultra to the epix pro 47mm and I never go back . Love this Watch and what it can do

[@simdencard]

What exercises, if any, were you doing when comparing the heart rate tracking of the watch to the medical grade heart rate cuff? This is a pretty important factor.

[@TheQuantifiedScientist]

🔴 Garmin Epix 2 Pro link*: geni.us/Epix2Pro 🔴 Garmin Fenix 7 Pro link*: geni.us/Fenix7Pro 🔴 General Amazon link*: geni.us/thequantifiedscientist 🟢 Instagram: instagram.com/quantified_scientist/ 🟠 Shorts: studio.kzbin.info/door/cpARGzXNaC62UQWns2dh2Q 🔵 Newsletter: www.robterhorst.com 🟡 Twitter: @QuantifiedRob * Affiliate (paid) links support the channel by earning me a commission on any sale, and it doesn't cost you any more! My opinions are completely my own, and this content is not sponsored. ▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬ 👇 $30 off any new WHOOP membership, affiliate* (paid) link, supports the channel!👇 join.whoop.com/QuantifiedScientist ($30 off any new WHOOP membership) ▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬ 👇Amazon Affiliate* (paid) links. Supports the channel, doesn't cost you any more!👇 ▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬BEST WATCHES▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬ 🔴 Oura Link: I recommend you search for a discount on reddit with the "Refer-A-Friend" program! If you can’t find one: ouraring.sjv.io/rQ4L33 (affiliate link that supports the channel, but doesn't have a discount) 🔴 Whoop Strap 4.0: join.whoop.com/QuantifiedScientist ($30 off any new WHOOP membership) 🔴 Eight sleep 200$/150$ discount*: eight-sleep.ioym.net/TheQuantifiedScientist + add code “TQS” for 200$/150$ total discount General Amazon link: geni.us/thequantifiedscientist

[@joaofraga7]

The accuracy requirements may vary depending on individual needs and goals, but generally, a heart rate monitor with an accuracy of around ±5 beats per minute (BPM) is considered acceptable for fitness purposes.

[@UMS9695]

I agree. For a vast majority of the population, 95% is perfectly OK.

[@chadmiller8958]

Thank you for the comprehensive and informative tesing and report of results of the new HR configurartion and HR output versus the Polar reference device. Exactly what we should all be thinking about as almost all fitness metrics for these watches are based upon HR, it is important the the HR measurement is accurate. I especially like seeing the data as you formatted it with R^2 values calculated and shown. I subscribed. Thank you!

[@leydsongalvincio4839]

Great review as always! Thank you for your wonderful work.

[@DV-hr5wd]

Love your videos because it is possible to jump immediately to conclusion. Thank you for that!

[@MrMattNoir]

Thank you for this rewiew! I can't wait for firmware updates that hopefully will increase accuracy of the new sensor and maybe I will buy Fénix 8 when it gets released. One word of advice that I would try - try nylon straps on the watches as it decreases weight and you can adjust it better for tighter fit, or at least for me it works much better. Also if you are still up for help from community, I can do some testing, we could even meet and discuss it as I am just an hour from your place.

[@searchingfor6thgear44]

Another great video. I went with an Apple Watch. At 62 years old, I felt the best sleep tracking was needed HOWEVER, I sure wish it had Garmin's looks and battery life. Sigh.

[@davidbraswell1481]

it's coming, hold tight!

[@rene9582]

I still prefer the possibility to wear my watch for days in a row without the need for charging over a bit higher accuaracy. I am mainly interested in the trends. For this, the accuracy of my Garmin FR255 is the perfect watch. However, whenever Apple is able to fix the battery life issue up to Garmin’s standard (battery life of 7 days or more), I will definitely consider an Apple watch as I am an Apple fan.

[@GK-qc5ry]

Samsung with their R&D should be in theory maybe below Apple but above Garmin. They have alot to do.

[@TheQuantifiedScientist]

Indeed! The battery life of Apple Watches is terrible, and this could be something I emphasize more in my videos 🙂

[@davidbraswell1481]

@@TheQuantifiedScientist it's all good if folks are too lazy to throw it on to charge while they shower should they even have a sports or smart watch lol. I run the ultra and a series 8 and mine are topped of every morning while I shower if they need it or not. and have never had one die yet! the Garmin boys going to fuss no matter what, or till Garmin fixes their soft wear and gets their accuracy better!

[@dliedke]

Thanks a lot for the very detailed review! Amazing work as usual and congrats for talking nice about other KZbin channels! 😃

[@catalinstavaru5355]

Thanks for quickly releasing this review, I was amongst those who were interested in upgrading the Fenix 7 to a 7 Pro. Based on your initial comparison I will hold out a bit and gather more information. By the way, there is a significant weight difference between the steel and titanium versions of these watches and I noticed you have mentioned the weight issue quite a bit during your testing. It would be interesting to test if the titanium versions are any better at HR and sleep tracking compared to the steel versions, such a comparison video could prove to be an unexpected hit :)

[@TheQuantifiedScientist]

Hi! Could for sure be interesting, but my budget is limited unfortunately ;-)

[@gamsek1]

@@TheQuantifiedScientistSince you mentioned weight of these watches, would you mind sharing your wrist circumference?

[@user-ub3qb5br2g]

Thank you for the great reviews! Do you plan to make one for Garmin Venu 3? I wonder if they improved the sleep tracking since they included a lot of related functions.

[@snowyfall753]

I thought the sleep tracking result was great except if you are tracking rem. Getting 93% on deep sleep and 91% on awake are very good results and better than the Apple watch which is leading the combined charts, probably due to better rem detection. I care more about tracking awake and deep sleep so this is great news.

[@louisrosado3295]

I just got my EPIX Pro, 51mm. I'm happy with it because I'm 60 and I have no problem seeing the screen data, everything is noticeably larger. I also have an EPIX 2, Apple Watch Ultra, etc.. Thanks for the excellent review.

[@jiribouda3191]

Great video and data analysis! I think that we have to compare Epix Pro Gen 2 and Fenix 7 Pro with Fenix 7 or Epix 2, not with Forerunner 965. Lighter watches have always better results comparing to havier ones (FR 965 vs. F 7) . New gen Epix and Fenix are slightly better than FR 965, I would expect that FR 975? with a new sensor will be even better than new gen Epix and Fenix, even though not as accurate as Apple watch.

[@ShareMyGadgetHouse]

Your channel is real value! Thanks for your work!

[@Rogal85]

Thank you, I was waiting for your test with the decision if it's worth buying!

[@Doniyorbek_Turgunov]

Thanks for the tests. Very informative. 👍

[@kwinzman]

Thanks for looking at the new watch sensor in this video! Please test the Garmin HRM Pro Plus strap next! I would especially love to see a comparison to the Polar H10 reference!

[@Fozzee.1970]

Can't believe there's been no firmware update on the strap since it was released.

[@TheQuantifiedScientist]

I'll see what I can do! ;)

[@alejandroalvarezbenitez7037]

Hi Rob. Thank you so much for your channel, it's unique on internet!!!

[@Dazdigo]

Interesting. Still waiting on the video comparing the correlation between the Garmin HRM-Pro (Plus) versus the Polar H10.

[@paulmeyer9677]

Anecdotally, I found the HRM Pro to report ectopic beats every few minutes (from RR data) that did not show up in ECG. Whether this issue is idiosyncratic to this one device, I don't know.

[@TheQuantifiedScientist]

Good idea, though I would have trouble finding a good reference. But something to think about!😊

[@clonmult]

I've yet to find an optical/wrist based HRM that is accurate on weight training, cycling or indoor rowing - this is a useful video that backs up my belief that this technology, however it is refined, is only useful for activities that don't heavily involve the use of the arms. Cheaper and more sensible to buy a slightly lower end watch (Instinct 2, or 2X) and a chest strap for cover of HR when cycling or weight trainng (assuming you care about HR accuracy). Good video, thank you!

[@NY-oz5le]

Another great video Rob! Your work is very much appreciated! Im still waiting on a watch that can do both sleep and weight lifting well that isn't an Apple watch. This Garmin is a bit too pricey in my opinion. BTW do you have any plans to test the Mobvoi ticwatch 5 pro? Hardware seems interesting, wondering if it tests good as well.

[@Efkas]

Thanks for a detailed review! Waiting for your test of huawei watch 4 series. I picked gt 3 pro after your tests of heart rate (I use oura for sleep tracking, and watches for activity), so I'm really curious, if they managed to improve it even further.

[@prboric]

The Epix Pro Gen 2 has had quite a bit of firmware updates including the unlocking of the ECG function. It’s probably time to give it one last round since it’s probably now at its peak capability. Please? 😬

[@skpunker]

I simply love your videos. It is the best and only real way to compare these devices.

[@arsyibaihaqi3685]

Thanks for making this great video as usual. Is there any chance that you do review for coros watch especially coros pace 2 in the future?

[@dwilliamhood]

Any plans to evaluate accuracy of the HRV measurements on the Garmin devices?

[@iamatuna]

very nice to see these scientific comparisons. You should consoler showing heatmaps for the correlation plots. These are hand to see when you have a lot of points built up.

[@bbqcrew1]

Interesting that the Venu 2 did well in your test, and it more closely resembles the Apple watches. Could size and weight be a factor? Also it would be good to repeat tests with someone with a bigger wrist.

[@andreaspape8987]

Thanks for your great videos. Which device would you recommend to check the HRV?

[@allisonfriebe]

Hi great review on HR and sleep stage accuracy! Did you review SpO2 accuracy? Would love to see the difference between those readings

[@fitgearhunter]

Oh wow - I got totally opposite results! .96 for CrossFit workouts (significant upper body work in every workout).

[@DawidVelCatweazel]

I also watched your recent video, this is interesting indeed. I appreciate your review and analysis :) your channel and Rob’s are my favorites

[@fitgearhunter]

@@DawidVelCatweazel thanks so much!

[@TheQuantifiedScientist]

Interesting! Amazing to get such results for something as dynamic as CrossFit ! 😊

[@fitgearhunter]

@@TheQuantifiedScientist I know! Continuing to test as well, but the results continue to be the same! Thanks!

[@danielkemmet2594]

Hey dude, thanks a lot for making this video. I was considering upgrading but after this I'm fine to ship my unit in for a low-cost refurb.

[@pdxdon]

Thanks for all your great reviews! I've been thinking about the number of variables that could skew the results one way or the other: the shape of the watches, the size, the weight, not to mention a person's individual wrist size and shape. Also perhaps the size and shape of the strap. Would it be possible to eliminate some of these differences at least for running by holding the watch in your hand with the sensors against your thumb while you run?

[@elel6843]

a person's individual wrist size and shape a person's individual wrist size and shape a person's individual wrist size and shape a person's individual wrist size and shape a person's individual wrist size and shape 👍👍👍👍

[@christopherhodges3881]

Hey man, love your videos. Will you be testing the Huawei Band 8?

[@csabahrotko2842]

Thanks for the video, the result is sobering again

[@Scheddy]

Nice video! Would like to see a test to the Garmin chest strap (HRM Pro+) etc.

[@faocisco]

Thanks. For now I’ll keep using the non-pro epix 2 with a polar h10 when exercising or the apple watch ultra.

[@ygln1997]

You make very professional reviews, please do one of the heart rate sensor of the new G-SHOCK DW-H5600, GBD-H2000. 👍

[@PercyZahl]

Very interesting data. The thanks for sharing. While I don't know the algorithms behind raw data processing in the device, I imagine algorithms struggles with near factors two between fast changes in HR to keep locked on frequency tracking. There are physical models behind the very noisy raw data and generated tracked data which are filters using previous data...

[@cgazlan]

Thanks. My next watch surely will be the SE2

[@CiufyHi]

Thanks Rob!

[@HaraldHoyer]

Thanks for testing! Is there a "Worst to Best watches" diagram for running also? And if so, do you have the graphics for those online somewhere?

[@TheQuantifiedScientist]

Hi! Not yet, since I have much less data there :-). It might come in the future, once more data is collected.

[@jiribouda3191]

Another thing except for accuracy is whether new sensor bring also other data like ECG, skin temperature etc. and, if so, when. And would these new data be reliable and accurate and usable in Garmin s ecosystem?

[@antho2121]

Excellent test as always! Thank you for your great work. Are you planning to test the brand new Huawei Watch4 and Watch 4 pro?

[@MookieBrown-mv4zk]

They use the same sensor as all of the previous Huawei 3 series watches.

[@antho2121]

@@MookieBrown-mv4zk mmh ok, if the algo is the same or even better they should be at least as precise as GT3 and better than Samsung or Garmin watches!

[@MookieBrown-mv4zk]

@@antho2121 Agreed. Maybe a modest bump from newer firmware but you can probably expect about the same results

[@konradkarczewski6030]

That was great! Thank you!👍

[@stacyburnett2809]

The key is consistency in measurement for the individual regardless of accuracy - no need to worry about accuracy across different people, skin colours, hair etc - the key is to ensure the watch is tightly seated on the wrist and not on the bone of the wrist etc

[@EstenSesto]

Great video, thank you! Do you know where the Fenix 6 Pro falls on this spectrum?

[@stefanstoian2025]

Thank You for the video. Hope this helps with the algorithm.

[@TestarossaF110]

It's a shame Garmin misses REM soo much, but otherwise it's a pretty nice complete package for general tracking stuff for loads of activities.

[@IgorAntarov]

Agree, and they definetley can fix it by improoving the software. We should all write a message to Garmin linking the video and asking for an improvement.

[@skylarrubalcaba525]

Not sure if this has already been answered. But did you see any differences between the nightly HRV between the 2 sensors? I use a chest strap for workouts anyway so accurate heart rate during sleep and rest is my main use for the heart rate monitor

[@niceone1456]

Wow your video explained well what’s actually happening! When watching DC rainmaker’s video, every Garmin watch he tested seem to conclude the heart rate sensor is pretty good, but that’s not the case at all when I use it as Garmin is seriously struggling to detect sharp increase or decrease of heart rate and my Apple Watch far outperforms it. Now this video validates it as Apple Watch are near 1 correlation while Garmin struggles badly especially outside. It’s just a shame that Apple Watch can’t broadcast heart rate to my edge 1040, I tried a few apps but none of them works reliably.

[@MookieBrown-mv4zk]

Agreed, he seems to gloss over this aspect. He also seems to come in with a pro Garmin/Apple bias. For example his latest Amazfit review made complaints about features that are just settings. He waived off the details as 'not many people are interested'. I do have concerns about his ties to the manufacturers he 'likes'.

[@KasKade7]

Hope I will see you test the Huawei Watch Gt4 Pro soon. Better display and blood glucose estimate testing. But all metrics should be the same as GT3Pro or better.

[@Wavesonics]

Would love to see a video on the new WiThings scales they just release.

[@SpaceStrike]

My friend thanks for this informative content. Though I would love to see you check the accuracy of calories expenditure on smart watches like the apple watch.

[@MH-1954]

Thank you. A good video and comparisons. An accurate heart beat function is fundamentally important both for sport activities and health. Have you ever considered whether the difference between the various watches and straps and their apps is related to how frequently the watch measures a heart beat and then how frequently this is written to the watches display and graphics. I understand all the watches and straps particularly by manufacturer for these two items are different. If someone has a max heart beat in excess of 180 bpm then the watch/strap has to be able to measure at least 4 times per second. If the measurement then is only written to the displaying graph every 6 seconds (I think that’s what Garmin Contact app displays) then for short high intensity sprint activities in particular the accuracy will always be poor and generally will not present an accuracy representation. The Apple Watch’s general non activity measurement display can be very poor for this reason when you look at the ‘Show All Data’. This might explain some of the variations between the watches.

[@mussabgasmelseed5079]

Fit gear Hunter has very promising result for elevate gen 5 compared to hrm strap in video posted today in his channel

[@torinsall]

Nice detailed review. One thing I would like reviewers to test is wristed-based stroke rate on watches which list it for indoor rowers lacking bluetooth (many of us have simple rowers with no bluetooth)...indoor rowing is gaining popularity and is fun.

[@konstantinkluge96]

Are you using a Concept 2 erg? With PM4 or MP5 screen? You can connect the watch via ANT+ to it and then get all Data such as Watts, stroke rate, split...

[@torinsall]

@@konstantinkluge96 WaterRower ... just added bluetooth module to it which gives some info.

[@konstantinkluge96]

@@torinsall Great, glad it works like that.

[@kentt6320]

Have you considered comparing the heart rate accuracy when wearing the watch inwards or “upside down” so it reads the inside of your wrist? I sometimes wear my watch this way to see my stats better while cycling outdoors.

[@TheQuantifiedScientist]

Hi! This has indeed been suggested before. I have been a bit hesitant because this is not the manufacturers recommended way of wearing it. But, indeed something to consider. THanks!

[@elel6843]

@@TheQuantifiedScientist a person's individual wrist size and shape a person's individual wrist size and shape a person's individual wrist size and shape a person's individual wrist size and shape a person's individual wrist size and shape 👍👍👍👍 that mean you can use another person when you test Whoop 4.0, wear it on the upper arm (bicep) and try use Garmin or any watch , on the upper arm just for one day please and make this video

[@Enoch-Root]

I appreciate the level of detail here, but a sample size of one just ends up leaving more questions than answers. Perhaps a kind of crowd sourcing of data could help here, but it'd be hard to implement all the necessary controls, a polar HRM, exercise intensity, etc etc etc.

[@marcocorbo6874]

Hello Rob, thanks for this great video. What were the sizes of the watches you tested?

[@kwinzman]

Apparently they are neither the x nor the s variant. Aka the middle size.

[@raphaswims]

Great video, I was wondering about the HR reading while swimming. Unfortunately, the chest straps don't work well when you're swimming in the pool; as soon as I do a tumble turn, they go down to my feet, even if they're very tight. I have a Garmin Epix 2 Pro and sometimes, I feel the reading is not correct at all. Apple watch 7 seems to have a slight better HR reading while swimming, but that's all, Garmin functions are way better to use while doing a swim training. On top of that, you can't easily change the functions on the apple watch while the screen is wet.

[@ismaelrivera1999]

Great review what it will interesting is to do a comparison of the 2 different sensors an epix 2 vs epix 2 pro.

[@kwinzman]

No. They have the exact same sensors as the watches in this video.

[@tedtedtedtedted]

All this heart rate and GPS testing is all very interesting, I use an Huawei watch fit 2 so feel quite chuffed at my budget choice, nevertheless it all resolves down, for me at least, to 1. my best time over a set running course, and 2. my vo2 max. Is there any way you could start giving us your vo2 max using the devices compared to the cooper calculation say, I doubt it would require a near death experience each time, we would be seeing a relative accuracy between the cooper calculation and cumulative figures as you test each watch, the fact it likely underestimates your claimed vo2 max of 58 wouldn't matter I don't think ?

[@gamsek1]

Hi, it’s been 4 months since this review - didn’t you say you’d do another (in-depth) review of these 2 watches?

[@dottkaccia]

Hi Rob, and Garmin Venu 3?

[@GrumpyOldTroll]

Are these more recent sensors good enough for rowing or is it still the case that a chest strap must be relied on instead?

[@MATIvmr]

It would be a really nice thing if you could revisit Huawei GT3 Pro after many updates, as it’s perfect steal for 250£ right now in the UK and I’m strongly thinking about switching from AW to Huawei GT3 Pro but there isn’t a lot of videos about it

[@rdnax5775562]

....I ll have to add though that Fenix 7 got at least one software upgrade last week and theres a second one is in my connect-pipeline since yesterday... So the purely hardware upgrade might be somewhat smaller than what the numbers suggest... Also there seems to be alot of software-"magic" even in heartrate accuracy as the Huawei-Apple sensors always looked more modest.... and Fitbit had one of the best sleep tracking even on the old/ crappy sensors....

[@TheQuantifiedScientist]

Hi! Yes, for sure software makes a huge difference😊! Let's hope things keep improving

[@Mannex17]

the Huawei Fit 2 with only 2 sensors beat the Huawei GT3 and Huawei GT 3 SE and GT Runner despite the latter ones having a significantly more complex 8-sensor array so I think the whole "woo look how many sensors we have" is overblown marketing bs. the real difference seems to come from the heart rate detection software algorithm inside the watch.

[@rene9582]

This is indeed very true. When I am running in cold weather conditions and my hands are cold, my Garmin FR 255 detects during the first 2K unusual high heart rates. After my hands are getting warm, it drops to the normal heart rate. Sometimes this is 30 bpm and then continues to show the normal HR. I wonder why Garmin cannot correct this via the software.

[@h20s8804]

Should compare with other stuff. I have a Whoop 4.0 band now that seems to be super accurate where Garmin Fenix 6 required HR strap to read my HR correctly over 120. Wrist based was useless over 120 -- so basically any workout.

[@AlexejSailer]

Thanks! Would be interersting to retest the venue 2.

[@GadgetyMV]

Great review!

[@TheQuantifiedScientist]

Glad you enjoyed it

[@GadgetyMV]

@@TheQuantifiedScientist I also appreciate your mentioning of the other channels, which I also follow. That's a nice gesture and they do focus on other aspects that certainly complement your tests.

[@soundtecked]

Just a question for you and something. Maybe you wanna do is on the sense2 Have you tried having the watch on the inside of the Wrist I've heard gives better results for heartbeat tracking

[@alejandroreina7623]

Hey Rob please make a video evaluating the performance of the Apple Watches for running! Thank you.

[@nathanrsf8371]

Would love to see you test the G-Shock fitness watches!!

[@louiswarren5343]

It would be nice to know how tight you have the watch around your wrist, since this is a major factor in its accuracy, however it's pretty difficult to maintain the same level tension in the wrist band between tests

[@drvamsee1664]

Did you get a chance to review fourth frontier x2 ,which is apparently world's first 24 hour heartrate and ecg monitor in the world??? Great video by the way

[@panfillo1982]

Have you consider to re-take test of outdoor activity, fitting a watch a little much more to your wrist and also try to cover watch with sleeve? I am wondering what is the impact of sunlight on the results accuracy.

[@mungo75]

I've been so looking forward to your review, thank you! Looks like I'm sticking with my Apple Watch…

[@RadBunny2269]

Seems I’ll not be moving onto Garmins anytime soon. Was really hoping i could now ditch the Ultra. They *really* need to invest heavily in their algorithm because it seems that’s what’s letting them down when it comes to data accuracy. Great video.

[@rapator9270]

I wouldn't take these tests seriously. Apple is known for releasing hardware with well-calibrated software. Watches that are more compatible with Android systems will achieve accuracy a little later. My Garmin Venue 2 plus only started reading sleep time accurately 8 months after the watch was released. Venu 2 and Venu2 plus are practically the same watches, but in the test they are so different in accuracy. The reason must be a software update.

[@RadBunny2269]

@@rapator9270 I tend to differ on that one. I take a product for what it is now & not the promise of what it can be/do in the future.

[@rapator9270]

Personally, I would not dare to buy any Chinese products, because they become worse after a year, since technology is usually bought for 2 years in the Chinese market. Garmin, Polar expected to reach Apple level more or less 6 months after release.

[@francescobenati]

On garmin are you recording HR with "smart mode" or "every second" ? could be interesting to find out if that make any difference.

[@synthrequests5880]

during exercise mode it shouldn't matter what that's set to, it should be doing "every second" during active exercise

[@DavidWilson-wz3wz]

quick question comment. The HRM will pick up the electric signalling of the heart whereas the watch is really an indicator of pulse. the HRM will be more accurate but even then it is my understanding that Garmin actually has a warning buried in the owners manual that if you take a calcium or sodium blocker it will not pick up HR fluctualtions and issues like AFib etc. I found that when training my HRM might shoot up to 175 plus whereas the watch will only show 135. Basically its an AFib issue where the chambers are working againste each other and the watch picks up only the reduced output. Definitely rely on the HRM for accuracy but the watches are catching up. The lag in your data between the watch and the HR is also very much what I see as I use both at the same time but thats my AFib

[@differentangle2499]

Great video, so methodological. I have had my Fenix 7X Solar for a few weeks. Disappointed with the heart rate a lot.... during interval runs and fast Park Runs it misses a lot. I paid 800EUR for my watch. Would I buy again! Don't think so. GPS tracking is not any better than on my 10 years old Forerunner 920X !!!!!

[@KarmaDiamond]

Same for me, I returned it after a couple of weeks of testing: Apple Watch was always spot on with HR accuracy during sprinting while Fenix 7x solar was off with about 30-40 heart beats less.

[@hunter-ie8mv]

Please review the new line of Huawei watches they seem like a good deal compared to Garmins current offering and considering the performance of the Huawei watch gt 3 and their sensors I am expecting a lot from these. Also the Huawei watch D seem right up you alley. Thanks for the awesome reviews you produce.

[@sdemjanenko]

I'd be interested in a comparison of the smallest vs largest versions of the watches. If weight is a factor, one might expect the smallest watch to perform better. Does it? And if so, by how much?

[@NostalgicMem0ries]

it depends, on hand and whrist size, if it matches your watch size then yeah probably some % better accuracy, but overall its same sensor. make sure to get best fit for your writst

[@TheQuantifiedScientist]

Could indeed be an issue, something to check out in the future :-)

[@Penta_Penguin_237]

You are totally right. I have Fenix 6x and 7s the 7s is way more accurate, also for running cadence

[@michaelbrenner9529]

Hello Rob, thank you very much for this interesting video and its results. Hopefully Garmin will try to get better befefits for sport tracking with their new Sensor via some software improvments. Especially for sleep tracking might be a huge potential in improving its software. Another just released test of the new sensor showed much better results with a r96plus. Are there explanations compared to your results at about r80?

[@JamesDuncan]

Wrist HR accuracy often decreases with watch weight, so that might well be the case here.

[@michaelbrenner9529]

@@JamesDuncan FitGearHunter tested the heavy watches with very good results whereas Rob got mediocre results with the same watches and quite similar workouts.

[@MookieBrown-mv4zk]

It looks like fitgearrunner aggregates across all exercises which is different than between exercise comparisons. To be honest I would love to know about the type of correlation used (Pearson?) and the samples used. I also think average variance (standard deviation or standard error across sessions or against the grand mean) would be useful. For example, the correlation could be greatly influenced by a couple dramatic points where it is off, or it could be systematically wrong across all time points but to a lesser degree. This would mean something different to different users, especially if you are using to train in heart rate zones.

[@darinmartel3595]

Does pairing the garmin watch with a heart rate chest strap improve the accuracy of the sleep tracking?

[@LightOtt]

I would really suggest if you can repeat the Venu2 Plus test please. Venu 2 seems doing well not sure why not the Plus version. Both have the same sensors and almost same hardware,

[@brucelin5842]

Is there a big difference between the accuracy of the heart rate and sleeep tracking between the old epix gen 2 and the new epix gen 2 pro?

[@NeverFollowTheCrowd]

Great video thank you

[@vorzap]

Been getting different results with my Garmin 945 lte by switching wrists. Wondering if Garmin just works better when on the right wrist

[@KDawg09]

I’m on the border of getting the fenix pro but also debating on seeing if the 8 comes out this year. I think a aftermarket band would also help with the heart beat numbers.

[@UltimateEnd0]

8 isn't going to come out until 2025 most likely

[@Yuurrr]

So, full review when? ;) Great vid though!

[@marcelofernandes5413]

Boa tarde. Algumas dessa atualizações virá para os modelos mais antigos como o 7x safira por exemplo?

[@rocky3762]

Hi Rob, thanks for the great reviews. I own a Garmin 935 and chose it because of it's low weight and battery life, and I wear an external HR chest strap. Sure would be nice not to wear a strap as far as HR measurement is concerned. Still waiting for that ideal watch. The new Garmin's should look nice, but after your recent reviews, I am holding on to mine a bit longer. Perhaps you've covered it before, but why are the Apple watches so high on the list? Better R&D? Better components? Thanks!

[@prboric]

I really don't know, but I wonder the same. My educated guess is that Apple throws a lot more processing power into the task, i.e. samples per second, than Garmin and that allows it to more accurately throw out misreads and catch fast changes. Such raw additional processing power translates into less battery life.