GARMIN EPIX PRO - Can It Replace Fenix 7 AND Apple Ultra?

[@MarkLewisfitness]

As the thumbnail shows, a perfect blend of rugged and beautiful. And the watch is nice too 😂😂

[@Fulgur98]

😂😂😂

[@MarkLewisfitness]

@@RachelSchloer You win the "most observant" prize! And my wife is getting fired as video errors checker!!!!

[@travroy]

My Epix Pro arrived today and as a longtime Fenix 5+ user I couldn't be more disappointed. This thing looks like a toy and I can barely see the display in direct sunlight with polarized sunglasses. Think twice before migrating from MIP to AMOLED.

[@MT-ou3lh]

Then get the watch checked, maybe it’s broken. A few days ago I compared the Epix w/ my 2023 tactix and a 5 pro next to each other and the display of the Epix is a different league.

[@travroy]

@@MT-ou3lh The watch was in working order and promptly returned. There are several reports of Garmin's AMOLED displays not jiving with polarized glasses. I'm a runner first and smart watch user second, so the benefits of the new display were probably lost on me. That said, Garmin's UI is well behind the curve compared to other smart watch makers and AMOLED seems to amplify the issue. The Epix Pro display looked like a knockoff of a Galaxy watch I owned five years ago.

[@BS-zy3tn]

I just started watching this dude. He made me feel better about purchasing the Epix 2 Pro while already owning an AW Ultra, and he’s reassured me that being bald doesn’t mean ugly. Subscribed, great content

[@Joost.van.Gelder]

And you just convinced me to order de Epix 2 Pro while also already owning an AW Ultra 😁 Do you wear both watches?

[@BS-zy3tn]

@@Joost.van.Gelder I actually sold my Ultra lol. Once I put it on, I never took it off. In my opinion, it does everything better. I absolutely love the thing. Especially the flashlight function! You'll see, the AE Ultra becomes irrelevant, so long as you're more interested in having a fitness device opposed to an extension of your phone

[@AuRowe]

Great comment😂

[@thomashackett4861]

Your videos not only got me into running (onto 20 mins in one go now!) I've also bought my first sportswatch, nothing fancy (Forerunner 255) but it's helping me already (mainly by giving me a little dopamine hit when the little numbers go up). Thanks mate.

[@travroy]

I started out with an FR255 and then graduated to a Fenix 5+ which I wore 24/7 for many years. Now I have an FR955 and recently the Epix Pro 2. I still prefer the look and feel of a 255 over all of them. Edit: Congrats on starting your run journey! Prepare to have your life changed forever

[@Indik47]

FR 2xx are fantastic watches. Had an older 245, really there's not much difference in functionality with the more expensive Fenix/Epix.

[@dliedke]

@@Indik47 I had 235, 935, Fenix 6X and Fenix 7X. The battery, multiband GPS and LED flashlight in Fenix 7X is amazing. There is no way it can be compared with 245.

[@Indik47]

@@dliedke Battery on the 245 lets you run at least 10 to 12 hours, do you need more? I certainly don't. LED flashlight doesn't help with running. Multiband GPS is a nice feature but gives no real benefit in most scenarios (245 GPS accuracy is very good). 245 can be compared to Fenix, as running experience in both of them is pretty identical, except for the maps - which are, again, useful for long trails but for road running are never needed. 235/935 feel more outdated than 245 - no argues here. Garmin made a big step forward in *45 series. p.s. I do own a Fenix 7 now, I know what I`m talking about.

[@ShawnKibel]

I bought a new Fenix 3 Sapphire ~10 years ago....10 YEARS AGO!!! It still works perfectly and I still only need to charge it about once every 10 days. I'm watching this video as I'm finally breaking down and thinking about an upgrade...and I'm struggling because my Fenix 3 still really does all that I need it to do. I have replaced the wristband 3 times, but the watch is an amazing bit of engineering! Think of the core "must haves" in functionality that you have to have and go with the appropriate Garmin device. Don't worry about all the other bells and whistles. I promise you that you won't really use them anyway. Go with the Garmin that has all the things you really need and you will not be disappointed. It is rare to get any technology that will last for 10 years, but Garmin delivers exactly that.

[@datraxcoach]

I purchased a Felix 3 in 2016, to start training for Triathlon sprints. It didn’t have a HRM feature but it has been the best. I recently upgraded to the Fenix 7X plus, it’s awesome. They go on sale twice a year usually $200/ off. You will not regret it

[@ugolovniyrozysk]

Well that's a very good watch u got. My Fenix 5 started to drain battery during second year of use, got replaced with new one and it lasted me 4 years before plastic wristband hole broke after falling from bike. Now upgraded to F7XSS.

[@60secondsofsanity99]

Bought a Fenix 6X 4 years ago... still looks and performs like it's brand new and I still haven't figured out most of the stuff on it. I forget to charge it because the battery last so long... But I still want to get a new Epix Gen 2... ??? LOL

[@60435]

Thats amazing

[@RockkcoR]

I’ve been a long time Fenix series owner. I recent had the Tactix 7 and Forerunner 965. What having both made me realize is that I prefer the more rugged Fenix in 51mm with the interface of the Forerunner 965 or epix series. Once I caught wind of the Epix Pro I knew they finally had a winner that blended both for me. I sold the other two and am now a more than happy owner of the Epix Pro in 51mm

[@EricB03]

Thinking about doing the same and selling my tactix 7 pro for an Epix 51mm

[@MrVikking74]

How are the re sale values?

[@ufcfan3940]

I may get this

[@andreshenao6574]

I did the same 😊 and the jump to oled screen it feels so good

[@MrSupernova111]

How did you sell your other Garmin watches? Is there an online marketplace for these type of watches?

[@davidwhite6479]

Let's be honest, you encouraged your dog to eat the box so you could say to the missus "I have to keep it as the dog has invalidated the warranty, luv" - I'm loving my Epix Pro Saphhire 51mm after coming from a Fenix 5x 51mm. At 56 the display is much kinder to my old eyes. Absolutely with you on the size of the previous Epix, I wanted a 51mm big boy and Garmin did the business.

[@29028ft]

i am that person that goes into the wilderness for days and days at a time and got super excited when i upgraded to the Fenix 7 solar and realized i can track my hikes and not have to charge it every day

[@MarkLewisfitness]

Say hi to the Bears for me 😂

[@ebmike8]

I wore an AW4 from release day until the day the AW Ultra came out. I purchased both the AW Ultra and Epix Gen2 at the same time to compare. Ended up returning the AW Ultra after two days. Garmin Epix Gen2 is much better than anything AW has to offer. Sure I can't use my watch as a phone but then again we all need to disconnect from our smartphones anyways. I don't miss anything about the AW environment (maybe ApplePay but I just use my phone for that now) ESPECIALLY the terrible battery life. I cycle/train about 80-150 miles a week and my watch holds it's charge without issue. I charged my watch last Sunday and currently i'm at 6 Days of battery left. When it comes to AW vs Garmin it's smartwatch vs Sport Watch. Garmin wins that category hands down, almost thinking of getting the Epix Pro and gifting my Gen2 to my father who is a triathlete. Great Review!

[@matthewmuente1363]

Glad I found this, was looking into a Fenix. As a side note, your content really speaks to me. I am also a finance worker (39 yrs old) who struggles with diet and bodyfat, and who also goes through periods of extraordinary endurance and weight training, sees great results, and tosses it in the trash. I'm currently training for my first 50 mile ultra in November, and trying desperately to get back on track. You definitely motivate me. Keep up the great content.

[@MarkLewisfitness]

Good luck, 50 miles is a serious distance 💪

[@christianjimenez6004]

This is my first time buying a smartwatch. I decided to get Epix Pro 51mm . So happy with it so far 🎉🎉.

[@mscordill]

Spot on Mark. Really appreciate your open/honest review. I swapped my 7X for the Epix 2 Pro 51mm for the same reasons.

[@dayforit1750]

Were you glad you made the change, or any regrets ie with the reduced battery life?

[@mengusprime]

You always say what I’m thinking about these watches. One of the best, honest channels on KZbin!

[@LukeHarris-b5z]

Thanks Mark. I did EXACTLY what you did. Kept the Apple watch ultra. Traded my Epix 2 for a fenix 7x pro.

[@anoneemouse4516]

Long time watcher first time commenter. Love the videos. I have had a Fenix 6X for years, just invested in a Epix (Gen2) Pro. I think the biggest 'game changer' is the user interface and detail of maps. If you use the watch to navigate the Epix is significantly better than the Fenix in every way.

[@Seanonyoutube]

What if I want to navigate in direct middle eastern sun with sunglasses on?

[@serhiirudenko6183]

Well, I still prefer MIP display. I hate when watch need to turn the screen on to show something. Always on display feature on AMOLED feels like cheating, and emits light when I don't need to. Currently I'm using Instinct 2 Solar (Solar feature actually was very helpful on a long bike ride) I even sent my track to the watch and navigating with it. Also just love that simple but high-contrast screen, it looks just great outdoors. But thinking to get Fenix because of maps. Anyway watch screen don't need to be so bright and juicy like phone screen, I'm not taking pics or watching videos on it. Also also I noticed a bit slower refresh rate when using menus on Epix. I suppose that's because of higher resolution and more colors.

[@michaelcrispin399]

As always, great video. Really enjoy the way you “keep it real”. Not pushing the latest and greatest, but explaining what works for all levels of physical activity. Keep it up.

[@MrSupernova111]

Pretty cool! I have the Fenix 7 Sapphire which I got last year. Sometimes I wish I got the Epix since I primarily use the watch for fitness and don't actually need a battery that last a full month like the Fenix 7. The iwatch was out of the question due to the terrible battery life. That said, my Fenix 7 is as rugged as it gets and it works perfectly. No complaints other than the Epix would have been a little nicer to look at on my wrist.

[@moggsquad3598]

Really appreciate the down to earth style of explaining pros and cons. Focusing on what really matters to most users, rather than going all out on every single additional functionality you could have (but probably never need). Even risking upsetting Garmin fanboys in the past ;-) Keep up the good work.

[@marcofioretti5915]

MIP display of the fenix is the most convenient screen as it is the most readable and always on.. it is not always easy during certain activities to do a wrist gesture to activate the screen.,and what about readibility of oled screen with polarised glasses? Yeah amoled it sure is prettier but probably less practical

[@paulhume8083]

From a Fenix 6x Pro Solar owner, that was a perfect review.

[@austinslater4773]

I’ve gone back and forth and I think I’ve settled on the pros updated MIP as being my favorite. It’s much more visible than the older MIP and I hated the off to ultra bright every time I loved and people looking at it. The Epix is a great watch but the new MIP is perfect imo.

[@george.r]

I upgraded to this watch after using a Fenix 5x for 6.5 years and WOW technology moves fast! The screen on this thing is sweet!

[@Seanonyoutube]

Is the gesture not annoying? Having to raise your arm up and then wait half a second just to see anything on the screen while running in the sun?

[@george.r]

@@Seanonyoutube Nah not particularly man. It's faster than half a second I think and still looks good in the sun. I will say after 4 months I think I still prefer MIPS display. I don't regret buying the EPIX but my next watch will be another Fenix for sure

[@Seanonyoutube]

@@george.r wow interesting. Why do you want to return to MIPS?

[@george.r]

@@Seanonyoutube It's a little hard to explain but AMOLED is kinda like having a small phone on your wrist at all times. I just like the way MIPS looks on a watch, even if the resolution is much lower. The AMOLED screen looks great & readable in pretty much all conditions though!

[@Seanonyoutube]

@@george.r I know what you mean, MIP looks more subtle and rugged like those old school digital watches from the 90s. I prefer the aesthetics of MIP too but i’m trying to consider practical usage first. I’m actually still wondering what I’ll end up with.

[@KonstantinosDouros]

I bought my Fenix 6 15 months ago brand new for 350$ here in Greece and I am quite happy with it! In fact as you said, I hardly use 10% of it as I am a runner. I would like somethong looking rugged enough but a bit lighter. Maybe a Fenix 7s titanium would work but right now I feel its too soon to upgrade! time will tell. thanks for the video!

[@BiscuitsScary]

Great vid. I disagree with the dismissal of the new GPS accuracy. I like to explore new places on my own rather than organised events. The problem for me for wasn't ever looking back at runs and worrying about whether the recorded route was spot on, but navigation, losing the trail in challenging conditions. E.g. running in surprisingly deep tree covered valleys in the Cotswolds or up the side of a volcano in Tenerife. In the former, I ran for half a mile in the wrong direction on a moonless night and in the latter I ended up clinging to a rock in the middle of a cactus field, some of them with scarily strong cobwebs between them. Running the same routes with a Gen2 Marq Athlete means I've never lost the trail since.

[@Seanonyoutube]

Your use case is very similar to mine. 1. Why Marq? Is it superior to the fenix/epix pro in accuracy? Or did you get the marq a while ago for better accuracy which the pro line now inherited too? 2. For your use-case do you prefer MIP or OLED? Everyone says maps look more detailed on OLED, but I wonder if it wouldn’t be annoying to constantly have to gesture with my wrist to bring full brightness on with an epix if i’m running through a sunny course…

[@mathiasnielsen8419]

I enjoy your honest and very “everydayman”, unbias but subjective review of the watches and functionality of them all. I purchased a FR55 half a year ago, switched it two months in for a new 265s, and now changing that for the Epix 2nd gen Pro. From your perspective it will suit me perfectly compared to other models/brands, and I tend only to use and have one watch that does it all. That said I am affected by having to carry around my phone at all times in order to check my blodsugar. If I was not, maybe my need for a watch would be different.

[@roadguyser]

I bought a used Fenix 6 based on your recommendation some time ago and I’m super satisfied. Your advice today leave me to think I’ll stick with my 6. Cheers.

[@brannmacfinnchad9056]

You forgot one thing about upgrading from the 6 to the 7pro or Epix 2 Pro...they add the flashlight, which you have said was super useful. And is now available in all three sizes, not just the XL.

[@HaswellCore]

He mentioned it's on all sizes of the epix

[@andys121.]

Epix pro must be the Garmin Flagship Watch now , does everything that the Fenix does but with much better screen resolution and map details

[@AHungryHunky]

I prefer the MIP display for just day to day readability. Primarily my watch is used to tell time, and read data and the MIP is by far the best for doing that outside where I'm really using the watch. However the biggest game changer for me and the primary reason I chose a Fenix over anything else, is the topographic mapping. The Epix is just so much more detailed, especially now that they added shading. Add to that the new radar system on the weather widget, the enhanced battery life (longer than I need) and the fact a flashlight is on the Epix now, and it starts looking more like I'll put up with the AMOLED for normal watch use to gain the better details on the mapping.

[@Seanonyoutube]

Do you still find the mapping experience superior on epix over MIP when navigating while running in direct sunlight with sunglasses on?

[@AHungryHunky]

@@Seanonyoutube I'm still running my Fenix 6, I just like "window shopping" so to speak with these reviews. I don't really plan on replacing my Fenix until it really starts showing it's age, right now it maintains a week+ battery with an average of an hour a day of GPS, and is still capable of around 40hrs of straight GPS usage . My wife's Vivoactive 4s on the other hand, I plan on replacing next Christmas with either an Epix 2s Pro or a Venu 3s, I just cant decide which she would like more. That said I got to play around with an Epix Pro not long ago, and I am back on the Fenix side of things. The greater detail wasn't mind-blowing or anything to me and not worth the trade in battery life or outdoor readability. I'm definitely a function over form guy it turns out. Unfortunately I do not wear sunglasses much, so I can't comment on that. The one time I do wear sunglasses is fishing, and I will say I love that my Fenix is totally readable even with polarized glasses, something I can't say is true of my phone. I haven't actually taken an Epix out fishing to know, but maybe next time I get the opportunity to handle one I'll remember to pack my fishing glasses to test it, as that is a deciding factor for me as well.

[@Seanonyoutube]

@@AHungryHunky thanks for the insight! I’m still torn. I guess I’ll just wait until I have an opportunity to test run them. Too bad in my country return policies aren’t lenient like in the US-otherwise I would have bought both and returned one.

[@AHungryHunky]

@@Seanonyoutube That is probably for the best. Functionally they are identical, the Epix just trades battery life for a nice screen. I don't know what you have in your area, but maybe see if some outdoor or fitness stores have a display they would let you play around with

[@vengermanu9375]

I recently upgraded my old Fenix 3 HR (MIPS display) for a Forerunner 265 for just over £400. Main reason was just for that AMOLED display and multiband GPS. Don't get me wrong, would love an Epix or Epix Pro but couldn't justify the cost and given I mainly just use it for running I didn't really need the extra features of the Epix or 965 i.e. maps. No regrets apart from prefer the chunky look of the Epix especially with the 51mm display (the Forerunner I have has 47mm and is very much a slimline watch compared to the Epix 🤔)

[@martijnbroekman]

Hi Mark, I strongly consider a garmin instinct 2x (with torch), and less money for a poor bugger like me. Keep up the good work! Cheers, Martijn.

[@moneyman102007]

I went from a Fenix 7s to an Apple Watch Ultra. Today just purchased an Epix Pro wished me luck.

[@danielsaunders563]

Agreed with the Fenix 6 and Fenix 7 argument. The incremental differences won't affect the outcome of whatever health benefit it is you are pursuing. An I do wish the Ultra looked a bit tougher, although it is a step tougher looking then the normal Apple watch. In light of the recent announcements from apple watch including pairing to more tech such as power meters and cadence sensors, Apple is definitely treading into the Sports watch arena in a big way, and it won't stop, it looks as if they are all in on this market. And the battery life is completely acceptable for daily exercise routines. As for the Epix, the 51 mm with flashlight was exactly what I wanted last year, but as I have the Fenix 7SS it is hardly worth an upgrade to the new Epix. If I were a new buyer with no watches at all and a good amount of disposable income, I would definitely buy the Ultra for the Left wrist, and Epix Pro 51mm for the right. That would be the perfect combo for tracking fitness yet still having excellent smartwatch capabilities. If I could only buy one, it would be the Ultra, as I don't participate in multi day events, and it has now literally become the most capable watch on the market in both sport and smart watch features. This includes the Work Outdoors App. The Ultra is the only Titanium, Sapphire, big touch screen watch that can track any sport, connect to all my USB devices (except the bike radar which is super important to me actually) and can adjust the heat/AC in my home, open my garage and control the TV volume. Anyway, great video as always. Keep it up.

[@Fozzee.1970]

This is a moot argument with Android users! Epix Pro 51mm all the way!

[@danielsaunders563]

@@Fozzee.1970 excellent point and the Epix is awesome.

[@robwetherell]

I use a Fenix 6X on my right wrist and an Apple Watch Series 5 on the left. I record all activities on the Fenix and use the Apple Watch so I don't need to carry my phone, plus I can listen to Apple Music. I bought the Fenix as I didn't have faith in Apple battery for running a marathon! It is slightly weird wearing two watches, but it works for me and that's all that matters.

[@GDubyah]

I bought the Fenix 7 Sapphire Solar literally a couple days ago. I was looking at the X, Pro, and the Epix, but decided on the older MIP Fenix because 1. It was cheaper 2. I forget to charge watches so the little bit of additional battery life coupled with the always on MIP display is slightly more to my preferences. 3. I am used to 40mm watches in my daily life so going to 50mm+ looks a bit odd on me. Glad to hear that while the new ones are nice, I am not missing out on too much.

[@Justyburger]

I went for the best battery life of the lot. The Garmin Instinct 2 Solar. I don't know where the charging cable is and it doesn't even matter. I work out in the sun and it keeps topping up to 41 days battery life. I still can't get over how good the battery is. I use the torch, I get phone notifications and fiddle around with the watch faces and the battery never runs out. I know I don't have the bright screens or the phone calls of the Ultra, but this watch is fully dependable in the Mad Max dystopia. That's all that matters :) Oh and in the midday sun, the screen is crystal clear. That's Monochrome for you.

[@chubbybabi3]

"When you're 14 every MM counts" - Mark Lewis 2:12 - PREACHHHH

[@oldmanaaron]

So hard to resist upgrading from my 7X to that beautiful screen.

[@antongustafsson8713]

Not hardcore details about the watches but an honest review which many times are much better. Deep diving in specs you can do all by yourself, awesome video.

[@bigmaster911andy2]

I am completely with you. I had the Fenix 5, Fenix 5 plus, Fenix 6x… always the top rugged Models. Then I Switched to the Apple Watch Ultra… It‘s a Great watch but I Never had the feeling I had with Garmin… Now I am back with the Epix 2 Pro 51mm and I like it 🙂

[@RunningWithDanny]

I've got the F7 47mm. Absolutely love it. Only thing I'd critisise is that more often than not, sleep mode although activated, I'll wake up with no data recorded

[@mrti3]

I was choosing today whether to buy Fenix 6x pro or Epix gen 2 for extra buck. Both look damn good. I made a conclusion based on fact and chose epix: I am not athlete, but having some smart phone features might help to extend everyday functionality. Touch screen not necessary, but good in cases when you want to type. But major reason was in case I use a map, touch screen comes in handy. 6x pro I actually liked the screen, its more like a watch feeling, however appeared bulkier, less for everyday use and more for athlete looking max battery life and knowing exactly what they want. Buy something that will be used, rather than nice to have and make it applicable to your usage.

[@GregHilton]

The Apple Watch Ultra is surprisingly rugged. took a direct hit from a hockey ball shot at goal and all that happened was the connector got dislodged!

[@kristidavis8983]

Thanks for the review. I appreciate the "common sense" interpretation of all the features and what they might mean to me, i.e."Do I care if I went left or right around a tree....?" It helps me chill out about not feeling stressed about not spending $$$$ for the best...

[@beano6969]

I don't know why people never talk about the Garmin enduro range it has to be the most underrated Garmin watch you get everything of a fenix but you get it with an absolute beast of a battery I used it when I was in Africa and no word of a lie didn't have to charge it for 2 months unreal

[@alexmccoy8905]

I wear an Apple Watch Ultra on one wrist and an Enduro 2 on the other. Such a great watch! With my Ironman training volume I charge the Enduro 2 every 2 weeks or so. It’s so great.

[@Simob174]

Came here trying to find a way to spend $1000…. Left realising that this guy is exactly what I needed, my crappy Apple Watch tells me what I need to know. 90% of the new features on the Garmin would appeal to me for about 2 days, then I’d never use them again. Brilliant video - Loved the humour and realistic advice

[@FlatToRentUK]

I've got a Fenix 6X Pro (£300) and a Polar H10 chest strap (£30) - both from eBay. It took a couple of minutes to get comfortable with strapping something around my chest that a random person from the internet probably sweated all over a few hundred times but I'm now in that place. It would take an awful lot to make me spend any money on something different now because to get any sort of upgrade would be £300 plus and the new features probably actually worth about a fiver to me. So it's not happening. If somehow I had a spare £700 lying around I'd pay it off the mortgage and bring my retirement date forward by a few weeks.

[@perwestermark8920]

I have a Epix 2 Saphire. The main fail - it's terrible at figuring out sleep. My Polar watches runs rings around them. Failing sleep analysis? Means it says I need recovery because I have long but bad sleep (counting time I had been sitting and working as bad sleep) Failing sleep analysis? Saying bad sleep heart rate variabikity - based on incorrectly learning from when I'm awake and working. Just so much training feedback collapses when the watch fails to correctly measure sleep. Googling? Massive number of complaints for Garmin for several years. No complaints for Polar. Garmin just needs to fix the problem why sleep detection fails so badly for some users.

[@joereyn3945]

Garmin just had sale on Epix pro 2. Bought 2 days ago. Getting today! Yes, finally buttons instead of Apple watch tapping. Thought the wisecrack 'if I take too long to put the strap on the battery runs out' funny. I do thru hiking, too, and charging that apple watch is a chore. It always would run out to about nothing by the time 16 miles had come.

[@ninjabrotmanelite5102]

I love my garmin instinct 2 Tactics solar. I feel like the fenix and the epix are a bit pointless^^

[@hotsky83]

Love the dolph lundgren references haha

[@morganil93]

Just discovered you, oh my god man. You are absolutely hilarious, long ago since I laughed this genuinely. Keep the great stuff up!

[@saschaBman]

You are bloody hilarious I watching this sitting next to my girlfriend checking on my delivery every 5 Min for my epix pro , as I starting laughing so loud that she liturally jumped out of her skinn . Love your humour and you videos very informative and helpful. As well you looking awesome for a 50 year old dude keep up the good work stay fit stay healthy

[@inelpandzic]

Hey Mark, I just discovered your channel a couple of days ago and really really love it. Wanted to see what do you think about the new WatchOS 10 updates? All the best from Sarajevo, Bosnia and Herzegovina!

[@lifestylecabins6933]

I stumbled across your channel while looking at garmin watches. Mate, you crushed the videos. Highly enjoyable.

[@aungier93]

Back here to this old one, garmin instinct solar deciding to act up the week before my first marathon despite not giving me any issues the last 3 years.

[@darren6028]

Went from Epix Pro, to AWU and back to Epix Pro. Put LTE into the Epix, Garmin wins. I never thought I would need a flashlight in a watch, I cant live without it now!

[@Star14trek]

LOL bling 😷 I got Endro one just so I didn't have to charge the watch every week 😂 but I still love my Polar watches so I end up wearing both together! Well we have two wrists ! .... So Mark just try it ... Epic on one wrist and Apple on other wrist 🤯🤩

[@Nayz13]

I’m glad to hear that they made the screen brighter and use less battery, I have my Fenix 7 up to full blast, thanks to my crappy eyesight without glasses. I’ll remember this when it’s time to upgrade (although considering Apple Ultra).

[@chrishorton5009]

Just bought an EPIX (my first smart watch) so a bit late to this party...Great content delivered in a witty 'Gen X friendly' manner - top drills!

[@Indik47]

One reason to still use Fenix / MIP display: using watch as a bike computer (mounted on the handlebar). I don't want to buy a separate Garmin Edge unit, but an amoled in always-on mode is unusable in bright sunlight.

[@Blipblop6337]

The longer I've been wearing smartwatches, the less I care about 24/7 monitoring. In fact, it's often quite nice chucking on my analog Tag Heur and not having something on my wrist incessantly vibrating and telling me what to do. I can't agree more; I wish Apple would make a round watch face. What are your thoughts on the new Garmin Instinct? I loved the old one before I made the jump to the Apple Ultra...

[@gk_knight]

That's why I like Whoop

[@Blipblop6337]

@@gk_knight Yeah, I've been considering something like that, also the aura ring (spelling?), but I have been put off by the subscription model.

[@snodyalso]

A huge part of why I left the smart watch world of Samsung and Apple is because of the AMOLED screens. I find them so jarring and distracting when the screen turns off and on whether on my wrist or someone else's. Plus, as a mountain biker, that wrist gesture is less than ideal having to take your hand off the bar and hope the gesture works. I started with the Solar Instinct and now have a Fenix 7 and just love the constant visibility outdoors. Of course there is no perfect screen and each person's needs will vary. I just hope they are able to have both screens as an option but I'm not optimistic.

[@danielvargo4498]

I bought the epix pro 47mm andi absolutely love it i came from apple watch ultra 2 just didnt want a phone on my wrist i use my epix must for wòrkout metrics and flashlight amd battery its a beast ❤

[@deepdiverdan2746]

Thanks mark. Now the proud owner of the Epix pro gen 2, and I’ve also sailed through my first sub 25 5K now too 😁 keep up the awesome content!

[@hobotify]

I´d go with the apple watch. Since i just do the occasional runs, bike rides or hikes and don´t race, i really don´t need the hardcore sports functionality of a Garmin. Basic heart rate and route tracking is all i need, but being able to leave my phone at home and still accept calls or messages seems nice. But i have a Samsung phone, so i´ll pick up a galaxy watch instead which does pretty much the same things.

[@jasondarby569]

Love my Fenix 6 Pro Solar, it's been fantastic, best watch I've ever owned. I do really want an Amoled screen though (its the only thing I don't like on the Fenix), so hoping for a Fenix 8 Pro/Solar with Amoled. Though have been tempted by Epix, rumours that new watches towards the end of the year, means I'll hold off a bit longer..

[@theretiredmonster]

I have been thinking about upgrading my Fenix 5x Pro to the Epix or 7X. I didn’t think to look at the Apple Ultra. I just want to track my workouts better with the best accuracy.

[@richt3993]

2:09 "...reassuring HEFT" Must use that phrase more frequently 😂

[@LarsDigerud]

That's it. Sticking with my F6. It does the job. Thx! :)

[@LeeTennant90]

Great video. Maybe F8 will go AMOLED. As battery life on that big epix pro is great. But still using my Tactix Delta solar I got last year at a great price once the new 7s cane out. Dies more than what I need, battery life in weeks. And only moved from it from my 5 sapphire fir the maos, which are great, especially with Talki toaster maps. And yes the inner 80s kid does like the rugged look if the Tactix.

[@highseastrader4190]

What about wearing the Epix 24/7 and add the AWU only for the moments you need it for "phone reasons"? (on your other wrist or in a pocket, just in case) If you don't wear your Epix for all your easy jogs, the training load/recovery can't be accurate.

[@hotsky83]

I got 965 forerunner over fenix or epic. Cheaper, big enough and had amoled display. Also super light at 52 grams.

[@JonathanFisherS]

I love the ida of MIP, but Garmin just doesn't have the R&D budget to make it as awesome as it could be. They need segmented LED backlighting and they need to figure out how to increase the pixel density. Easier said that done, this is just a youtube comment

[@bobby4500]

Fenix 6 pro all the way, I want my always on display

[@RobertoCassetta]

Love your videos man. I gave up on AWU. It fails to measure my HR precisely while I am running. I have spent the last 4 months running with both my Fenix 7x and AWU. The difference would go to 20 BPM. Therefore i bought the best heart band garmin has and realized that AWU was really off by a lot. I called the apple assistance 3 times. they did not solve my problem, I wasted my time and the last time they scheduled a call and did not call me. I have tons of data to prove it and had to heard that it would not do any good to take the watch to the technicians because the watch is working! I am gladly back to my fenix 7X and will wait for the 8 to come before I buy another watch. Happy user of Garmin for over 10 years. Cheers!

[@Seanonyoutube]

Surprising I saw a scientific review where the ultra seemed to be more consistent compared to a chest strap than any of the garmins

[@ppeeps9690]

Really the best reviews of running watches on KZbin. I have a garmin fenix 6 pro. Really enjoying it, but like you, I want that phone free experience when out for a quick run.

[@scottporter2513]

Really interesting to see the quality improvements in your videos when showing earlier clips. Great work 👏

[@redpet8861]

I will start saving for a garmin now, it might take a year or two. I lost my Watch 5Pro Samsung in the sea and I cannot forgive myself, the screen was soo easy to see outdoors and it was a great watch for everything I was doing. Now it feels like I've lost a part of my body, due to how much I was using it over my phone.

[@brucelin5842]

If the epix gen 2 is on sale should u buy that instead of the epix pro?

[@zapsurf1343]

Treadmill at 45 degrees and punching things while jogging! Im dying!

[@CarlovanHouten1973]

Like your videos man! Keep doing your thing!

[@cortneywebb1677]

Perfect explanation love how you said the left vs right side of the tree. I think the same way about some of these minor updates.

[@DeanPattrick]

Nice breakdown. I have a 745 which is a few years old now. I think the new Epix will also use the ECG when it's released in Europe. One thing that DC mentioned was that the Epix still uses the older UI and not the new UI found on the 956 🤔 First world problems eh.?

[@88guernica]

I'm still wearing my 3HR. Showing it's age and really thinking about upgrading to the Fenix 7 Pro

[@aaronhill5908]

10:12 was a better joke than the comments are giving you credit for.

[@MarkLewisfitness]

😂

[@katherinetonks]

Love my Epix Gen 2 (amateur) although the white gets dirty pretty quickly and the replacement bands don’t quite match (why Garmin, why?). I’m an Apple fangirl but thought the sporty upgrades to the watch yesterday looked unappealing so still can talk myself into one of those.

[@melissaheaton1789]

I have a Garmin Fenix 3 (one size, huge), 6S and now a 7S. Love my 7S Solar. Need to sell my old ones lol. Wonder when the next Fenix is coming out - I won’t need it but I’ll want it. Trail running, 100 milers here. Need good battery life.

[@indianajonze]

i wanted to hate the solar ring on tactix 7 pro, but i ended up loving it during those epic 4-5 hour hikes in the pounding sun. also, that mips display is unmatched in said sun. everything staying as they are now, i'll 100% go with the tactix 8 when it arrives

[@Seanonyoutube]

Does MIP not get frustrating in shade/wooded parts of a hike?

[@robhunt8378]

​@Seanonyoutube there's always the backlight if it gets too bad. And unlike amoled it can be configured for no timeout.

[@Seanonyoutube]

@@robhunt8378 does the backlight really help in shade? I thought it was only powerful enough to be useful for indoor use

[@robhunt8378]

@@Seanonyoutube It does, if it gets dark enough. If not, then you won't have trouble reading the display :) I don't have experience with Sapphire glass though, only regular Gorilla glass.

[@FLIK510]

Mark's ongoing watch reviews have been the biggest roller coaster ride ever

[@MarkLewisfitness]

And roller coasters are the most exciting ride in the theme park 😂

[@jacksolarmusicmastering]

08:27 so true, it made it look so cheap even to 250 smartwatches

[@gregoryflinn3577]

This was a very useful comparison, thx!

[@realinik]

Thanks Mark, always very interesting, entertaining and informative videos with really good down to earth sport wisdom..brilliant!💪

[@kstkn]

Completely agree Epix Pro is YOUR best choice. Mine as you said - I insist best possible battery life.. Even more - I hate Fenix 7/Pro as they are NOT charging the battery during solar.. Still - can't complain from this huge battery life on 7x/7x Pro and even - I want MORE :-)... so yeah, Epix Pro is a win if you do not care that much about battery. Also, it is really annoying on amoleds this fighting with the sun issue.

[@matthewr3986]

No the Fenix is the ultimate winner.

[@passionandcommonsense]

“..or date night is in full swing…” 😂

[@robertstubbs1508]

I like the apple but your right a very girly looking watch and like a manly BIG watch. Also HATE it only last 1 day on a charge??? what is up with that. With the Garmin 11 days on all the time but loose the phone thing and do use that. So since have the apple just buy the Garmin and use both I guess. Don't give away your dog I love my dog and all Dogs as they are so LOYAL and always happy to see you every time you walk through the door !!!

[@dominicomucci3014]

Lmao love this review. The spin class while dancing 😂😂 I have the solar instinct (1) love that watch does everything i need. Would like one of those new ones but not worth the money to me yet. They seem to have half price sales sometimes so need to keep an eye for that.

[@MSte-r3q]

Niiiiccceeee …. love the old fashioned. Very down to earth and realistic. I like it. And I don't like much on youtube...

[@stevenspithaler1979]

Great video. Thanks. I have Fenix 5X and been thinking about upgrading. Leaning towards the Epix Pro now.

[@georgegiannopoulos]

What a video… I was waiting for your review. You are one of the few who really speaks substance when it comes to these devices🎖️Too many watches, not enough wrists ✌️

[@MarkLewisfitness]

Glad you liked it

[@BareFinn1986]

18:30 My wife would love that dog, because she absolutely hates that I hold onto the boxes for my devices and electronics. 😂