GARMIN INSTINCT SOLAR REVIEW // Is the Instinct Solar the best GPS watch for hikers?

[@sarahcronje6454]

I just bought this for my husband's 40th... your review has made me feel quite relieved that I made the right choice! Phew!

[@OutsideChronicles]

Great present, he will love it. My wife bought me mine for our 20th anniversary.

[@englishkev107]

I just love the Instinct Solar, such a great all around device for outdoors. When you're out and active, your phone can be tucked away, and your watch takes care of the technical stuff. 👍

[@OutsideChronicles]

Well said! Thanks for watching and the comment.

[@lioncurlew]

On the Second hand market, they are starting to go down in price. I have the non solar instinct and it's great, but I will try to get the Solar Version for comparison.

[@TheAdventureHeads]

I completely agree Garmin Instinct Solar is the best vale on the market for GPS watches. Battery life and accurate routes are perfect for outdoor activities. When paired to phone very Iwatch like including weather forecasts.

[@OutsideChronicles]

Good point, it will pull weather data from your phone. I also like that it pulls the sunrise and sunset. It also has a barometer and will alert you if there is a sudden drop indicating a storm is coming. I have not had this happen with the Garmin, but my Suunto would alert is the barometer crashed.

[@OutsideChronicles]

@Phileas Frogg I am not sure I follow, I like to get SMS and other important messages on my watch.

[@zatara32]

My man this is a great review. Totally agree with you. Never had a smart watch before and I love my instinct solar. Had it for a little bit less than a year and charged it less than 20 times.

[@OutsideChronicles]

Thank you, the battery life is great.

[@mattconklin4026]

I was gifted the instinct for Christmas. What a fantastic watch. I like how you can control your earbuds through the watch. I may be looking into the solar, around black friday, they become budget friendly. This watch is crazy durable. I turned off the heart rate monitor & turn my watch off every night. I can easliy get more than a month of battery life. I have been turned around in the Appalachian mountains, I can't wait to use the sight n go

[@deborahsmith4216]

I’m so grateful that you mentioned that it tracked your sleep, too. Thanks for this video!

[@OutsideChronicles]

It’s a cool feature, takes a bit to get used to wearing it in bed. Just remember to set your alerts to Do Not Disturb during those hours. I did not mention it in the video, but your can track Pulse Ox too…like if you had sleep apnea. But that sensor eats up the battery.

[@superyamagucci]

Had a couple of other watches claiming to do the same stuff. This actually does is - three thumbs up. Very short learning curve, everything just works.

[@OutsideChronicles]

Glad you are enjoying it! See you outside!

[@brentthorp2383]

Only had mine two days & loving it.

[@rickpritchett897]

Great review. I am on my second week of this watch. I only charged it because I was going on a hunt and wanted to be sure would make it home. There is no downside to this watch. My wife saw this in my Amazon cart and bought it for my 53rd birthday. Since charging the watch last Sunday, I still have 13 days on the battery, in battery save mode. That's 5 days ago and still a lot of battery to go. my wife has a Samsung galaxy watch and she charges it every two days. I am hoping Garmin can work something out with ON X maps. that is my goto map app. I have years of way points and it would be great to have my trail cameras Locations on my wrist.

[@OutsideChronicles]

Those wives really know us, mine was an anniversary gift. As for OnX, you should be able to export the waypoints as GPX files. Then you can import them using the Connect website or Explore App.

[@DvE_DigitalVsEarth]

I have the 2x. Love it! I do have loads of gshocks but really like the interface and apps on the instinct. I even have a dice app, what three words app, calculator app and tide graphs on it, making it the best all round watch I have. Great for wild swimming with the inbuilt temp sensor.

[@Slufferbeiste]

I have only been using a Garmin Instinct 2X Solar for two months. I use the sports watch 24/7 to track my sleep, hiking, cycling, Core stab, Ballroom dancing etc... It still amazes me every day how much I can customize to my liking. Even after barely two months, I dare say: this one suits me!

[@OutsideChronicles]

Great to hear, I love the balance between simple usability in the field and the power to customize to suit your needs.

[@kmcel190]

I usually end up not wearing smartwatches about 6 months after using them, but I don't see myself getting rid of this one. Replaced my G-Shock watches for sure.

[@OutsideChronicles]

Cool, glad you like it. I wear mine everyday, no more G-shock. See you outside!

[@Lecandotnet]

I liked one button (number 2 GPS) for the GPS coordinates on Garmin Instinct Solar Watch.

[@marc5313]

I just bought a instinct solar tactical and your review was the push to do it. In The Netherlandsyou don't get lost easily, but who knows.

[@OutsideChronicles]

Cool, you will love it! Be sure to check out our walkthrough on some of the customizations I have made: kzbin.info/www/bejne/bWjMpHaqibCan68

[@aresmaximus1]

Got an Amit 3 peak still fantastic watch just doesn't have some functions which the Garmin has otherwise I wouldn't have bought the Garmin instinct solar. But both watches are fantastic but the barometer on ambit peak 3 is the best. The battery life in the peak 3 is insane is so good and the watch is 4 years old ....fantastic still sharp and good to go ...

[@OutsideChronicles]

The Ambit 3 Peak was a solid watch. I love it, but I hated that Suunto got rid of Movescount. When they did that, you lost the ability to load tracks and change watch screens. I am loving the Garmin Instinct Solar. I like having the HR monitor on the watch. I also really like that you can change the battery management on the fly. Thanks for the comment!

[@WeShootBack1776]

Got the instinct 1 in tundra white color , i primarily use it for everyday wear ,kayaking & Backpacking myself , and i freaking love it , the track back feature saved me a few times from getting lost heading back to the trail head. I really love all the features plus i like that i don't have to be tied to another phone , i wanted a functional watch and gps not another pretty display and apps 😂, battery life on my non solar instinct per charge is 28 days , i think garmin undersold the battery life myself 😂

[@OutsideChronicles]

Glad you love it as much as I do. I still have the Instinct 1 Solar and wear it everyday for every activity. Thanks for the comment, see you outside!

[@ELuciferC]

Great review. You focused on many points others don't or miss! I originally passed on the Garmin Instinct/ Solar when I was looking 9 months ago. I picked up a Casio G-Shock Move / HBD-1000 (Solar). I hate the damn thing. It was bulky. Uncomfortable. The Gshock MOVE APP is garbage. The watch would consistently FAIL to sync and lose my fitness tracking data for the day and I had to open the app every day to force a sync. The watch features were limited compared to the Garmin Instinct too. I watched your video the other day and decided to give the Garmin Instinct Solar a try. I have had it for a week and am absolutely enjoying it. The watch is light and comfortable. The app is well done and thought out. Navigating the watch menu is smooth and responsive. Sensors are great! Thanks for the review! It helped me make the switch and so far, I am glad I did!

[@OutsideChronicles]

Eric, thanks for the thoughtful comment. I am glad you are enjoying the Instinct Solar as much as I am. I have to agree with you about the ease of use with the app and website. I am just getting ready to make a video on how to load GPX files and found some real quick ways to export/import with the apps on iPhone. As I said in the video, their ecosystem is top notch. I actually borrowed a friends Forerunner watch a few years ago. I just realized that it synced his data from back in 2013. And it was still available! Again, thanks for the really great response.

[@yogiyoda]

Yes, this is a great watch! Love it too. In the future, maybe they could make it a bit handsomer, slimmer and not need any plug-in charging. Then it would be perfect

[@OutsideChronicles]

Thanks for the confirmation. The charging is OK for me, but I did have to buy some additional cables. I do like the way the Apple Watch charges.

[@yogiyoda]

@@OutsideChronicles - Wireless charging would be awesome, but even better would be to be able to charge solely by solar power from indoor and outdoor lights like a g-shock

[@al-eteos-imhotepheru-bey3271]

Hey Mike I appreciate your video! I'm a badass and I'm pretty much super cool. So, I watched your video in full without liking or subscribing. But, it did help me decide what to wish for at the Seth's Urn of Death's wish.

[@OutsideChronicles]

Comments sometimes disappear on YT, this one was great by @Michael J Orcutt Great review. I have both the Instinct and Fenix6 Sapphire. I really prefer the Instinct. You can’t beat the legibility of the display of the Instinct in any light condition. Especially, outdoors. The lightness of the weight of the Instinct is superb. You don’t even know you are wearing the watch. Which makes sleeping with it comfortable. I switch between the two for different scenarios. But, I always come back and prefer the Instinct. Garmin is the best out there. With the Garmin Connect App, you get really detailed data about everything. Just amazing.

[@michaeljorcutt3142]

Thanks for resurrecting my review Outside Chronicles! I meant to add one more thing. The Instinct also has the best vibration alert of any watch/fitness tracker out there. You definitely know when something new came across the Instinct. Michael

[@OutsideChronicles]

@@michaeljorcutt3142 No problem, I have had that happen a few times where I will get the e-mail of the comment and then it is gone. I guess it is a bug somewhere in KZbin. I feel bad because the commenter probably thinks I am ignoring them. I will re-post those from now on. Glad you stopped back for a follow up. And I agree, I really like the vibration alerts (except when I am recording KZbin videos).

[@flowtalks2548]

Sapphire glass is generally super-reflective (especially in bright lighting conditions), so Instinct is clear winner regarding the legibility

[@OutsideChronicles]

@@flowtalks2548 I have no issue reading the Instinct Solar in bright sunlight. I have come to prefer the simple monochrome displays.

[@bushtrash2286]

Thank you for this video I teach desert survival and been looking for a watch like this, the point and shoot got me sold on this watch , although this watch will never replace a map and compass as a primary nav aid it will definitely fit the bill in emergency situation, oh my God I love the point and shoot AWESOME....I'm getting the orange 1 😃

[@OutsideChronicles]

Cool, the Sight'n Go feature is a very handy. Be sure to also check out my settings walkthrough video: kzbin.info/www/bejne/bWjMpHaqibCan68 and course import: kzbin.info/www/bejne/pqfSeaeYiZZ9g5Y

[@Lukasz1989]

Finally something about that smartwatch i didn't know. Strenght function is amazing. Great review. + it's nice you got a polish surname :) Like+comment for you. Keep the channel grow.

[@OutsideChronicles]

Thank for the kind words. Sto lat!

[@fendermon]

Great review, and thanks for the Avenza map tip. That was the one item pushing me towards the Fenix. Now I have options :)

[@OutsideChronicles]

The Fenix is a great watch too. I am happy with my Instinct Solar + Avenza setup. Be sure to check out my Avenza series: kzbin.info/aero/PL0JzmvrJfyESB-V2xwxPUSKjLRoJK70Ll

[@paulgilmurray3676]

Fantastic review, man. Great work! Thank You!

[@OutsideChronicles]

Thank you for the kind words. Thanks for watching!

[@DesGreene]

Very useful review, thanks! Just researching a replacement for my ancient but trusted Vivoactive 2 👍😁

[@OutsideChronicles]

The Garmin Instinct Solar is a great choice. They have recently come out with the Instinct Solar 2. Both are great watches, you may be able to find v1 on a good discount. Much of the features are the same, with a few enhancements. See you outside.

[@Abalone6]

I currently have an ancient/trusted vivoactive 3 music that is still working and have been looking for a replacement for two years but too lazy to go for that much of an investment because the dear thing is still alive and kicking for 5 plus years 😂 i wonder how many it can go more.soo torn between descent g1 or forerunner 265. Garmins are THE BEST. I have a friend whom i’ve known for 5 years, he replaced 3 fitbits (out of faulty issues) until now

[@HeiroftheAbyss]

exactly what I needed! thank you, very informative

[@OutsideChronicles]

My pleasure, you will love the Instinct! See you outside!

[@masonworthy1574]

Awesome video, such a great explanation. Keep up the awesome work with these quality videos! Super excited to get my instinct solar!

[@OutsideChronicles]

Thanks so much! You will love your Instinct Solar, it is easy to use and has so many features.

[@tvt8716]

I heard that the next gen of Garmin instinct is gonna be released soon. That will come with an E-ink display (better readability) and Elevate 4 heart rate sensor (greater accuracy). I am planning to get the current Garmin instinct but I change my mind because of that leak.

[@OutsideChronicles]

I heard that too, not sure when it is being released. The e-ink and HR sensor will only solidify my stance on the watch. The battery life will only get better. I would be good getting a great deal on the current Instinct Solar when the new one comes out. But the jump from the Instinct to Instinct Solar was worth the extra $$, I suspect the jump from v1 to v2 will also be worth it.

[@flowtalks2548]

My subjective piece of advice: 👉Garmin Instinct is an excellent on-track navigation, never broke, never let me down. Verified many times at 200km+ 🚲 rides, legibility is excellent. 👉don't buy/apply Garmin Instinct for (active and passive) daily calories burnt, something is completely wrong here (at least in my case) - used Instinct for over a year, got a Fenix 6 Pro. Now the Fenix 6 calories burnt readings are lower for about 30-40%. However, there is little chance any reviewer can/could spot the problem, especially having other watch features/objectives in mind. I think it is worth paying a little extra for Fenix 6/6 Pro, which is much better watch in every aspect (but the battery life - if you need the extra 6/8h). Sorry, Instinct!

[@Koufalia4]

I am between the Solar Instict 2 and the Fenix 7. I just don't have the extra money to spend on the Fenix 7.

[@GrAYvTrAnE]

I picked up the Instinct non solar over the holidays because the discount was so deep I couldn't help myself. I figured they were discounting them so much because a new model was coming out but I'm not the newest, latest, greatest type anyway. This is probably one of the best watches I've ever owned.

[@OutsideChronicles]

I could not agree more, the Instinct 2 has some nice features, but none that would make me run out and upgrade. I am uncovering new things on this model all the time.

[@MrLuffy9131]

how much was it?

[@GrAYvTrAnE]

@@MrLuffy9131 it was less than $200. I think I paid $149 for it

[@turo3066]

Thanks for this review! This is one of the best and concise that I have seen on YT. I am very frugal and can't justify spending hundreds on a watch. The Samsung watch that I owned for 6 years finally died. I considered buying the non-solar version of the Garmin or a refurbished one. Does this have an SOS feature? Your review has reall helped my narrow down my choices.

[@OutsideChronicles]

Sorry, no SOS features without a Garmin InReach, but they are integrated. Thanks for the nice comment. See you outside!

[@tcab25]

Real nice job breaking it down for the average person, without all the real tech stuff a lot of us get lost on or never end up using because it's so confusing.

[@OutsideChronicles]

Thanks, I really appreciate your comment. See you outside!

[@howwedidthat6893]

Thank you for this detailed video!

[@OutsideChronicles]

My pleasure, see you outside!

[@Benjorunner]

I just used it for the first time. Works very well, but I understand that you cannot change the look of the navigation screen? As you say, it only shows an arrow and the line of the direction you are going, but not any reference, so the other roads around you. That would also have been nice.

[@OutsideChronicles]

You would need to go with the Fenix for full maps.

[@Benjorunner]

@@OutsideChronicles Thank you.

[@tammykorbe7780]

Thanks so much for your thoroughness!!

[@OutsideChronicles]

My pleasure, thanks for watching

[@tonybenkowich2382]

I love my solar instinct

[@OutsideChronicles]

Great to hear!

[@fakenewsisthenews3542]

I wanted the solar, but only 1 place around had it and it was in blue. (yuck). I wanted a tactical color, so opted for battery version. I guess we'll play around with this for a while and see how it works out.

[@davidweaver1968]

Great review. I have the Vivioactive 3 and am generally happy with it with the exception of the heart rate monitor. It takes halfway through an hour long cardio session to begin to register accurately, which of course totally robs me of the ability to log an accurate workout. Does this function on the instinct seem to work properly?

[@OutsideChronicles]

I do not have much to compare it to, but I would say it works well for my use cases. The instinct solar has an upgraded HR sensor, same as in the Fenix 6. The best place to compare accuracies is at DC Rainmaker, he runs tons of tests, here is the ones for the Instinct Solar: www.dcrainmaker.com/2020/07/garmin-instinct-solar-review-whats-new-different.html

[@mchen7303]

Due to the reliable battery life, I'm thinking to get this watch for my 5 yrs old daughter going to school to make sure I can track her in case anything happen. Is it possible if the watch is 20 miles away from the phone and still be able to monitor the watch's location for at least 10 hours or so?

[@OutsideChronicles]

This is NOT a two way device. To do what you are looking for is the Garmin InReach which is satellite or an Apple device with cell service. This is not the device for your use case. You may want to look at a Gizmo watch for your daughter

[@mchen7303]

@@OutsideChronicles Thanks a lot for the information..

[@drouleau]

I just had mine delivered today, but have found the online manual a bit vague at times - is there a way to pause a hike if say, you're stopped for lunch?

[@OutsideChronicles]

You will love it, and yes you can pause. After you start tracking the activity, hit the GPS button once. You will get a menu to Save, Pause, Resume, etc. I agree it is vague, I usually Google or watch a KZbin. Maybe I should make mine own HowTo?

[@drouleau]

@@OutsideChronicles Thanks, yes, an in depth how-to would be pretty awesome!

[@OutsideChronicles]

@@drouleau I will see what I can put together. The weather is turning in WNY, so might be a good time to record a video like that.

[@mkramme]

@@OutsideChronicles I hope you do make one, I think you would do a wonderful job!

[@Huxley555]

Just ordered the tactical solar for £108, as I love the look. My Huawei watch gt has seen better days, and I needed something to work with strava, and have better metrics. Someone said this is like the 6 pro, without the fancy features and at this price I had to jump on it.

[@OutsideChronicles]

You will love it. It is like a mini Fenix 6. It has many of the same features. Thanks for watching and thanks for the comment.

[@leviconnelly79]

Thank you for making this video 👍🏼😉 You did an amazing job 🙌

[@OutsideChronicles]

My pleasure, glad it was helpful. See you outside!

[@leviconnelly79]

@@OutsideChronicles I am actually getting this exact watch as a gift 🎁 soon and will refer back to this video to help me get used to the functions 👍🏼 you have the best instructional video I e seen. Thanks again 😉

[@sebastiansimankowicz3209]

i am wondering if this one would be also good for tracking bicycle rides and tracking running in the mountains and in the city?

[@OutsideChronicles]

Yes, the Instinct has activities for all that you want to track. Each activity has out of the box data screen…of course you can always customize.

[@headbangerstrail]

Thanks for the great video!

[@seanwilson6521]

It appears the instinct 2 will have app connectivity. I'm interested to know how it will interact with an app like guthooks for the AT. I know it's not map capable, but I'd like to know more.

[@OutsideChronicles]

I do not know many of the details of the Instinct 2. I rely on DC Rainmaker for much of the technical comparisons. He just posted a video on it a few hours ago: kzbin.info/www/bejne/j3fMnGltiNN0fLs

[@ElephantsOnUnicycles]

Do you think it is worth it getting the Instinct solar 2 if you probably won't use all the smartwatch and training functions? I would want to use it mostly for hiking and running, and it would be my everyday watch too. Important to me are functions like ABC, GPS/navigation/tracking, step counts, the usual watch functions like timer and stopwatch, and maybe most important a good battery life because I don't like having to charge a watch (that's why I landed on this watch). But it seems to have tons of functions I probably won't use, and I haven't yet found a watch that has just these type of features. What do you think?

[@OutsideChronicles]

I would say the Instinct 1 Solar is a good fit. i love mine and do not feel the need to upgrade. I am sure there are some great deals, but definitely go with the solar version.

[@FT4Freedom]

Ha! Every time I need to remember how to use my watch I come here for review.

[@OutsideChronicles]

That’s great! Glad it’s here.

[@nikosBB07]

great video, im interested to buy the watch, is there a way to turn off the Bluetooth from the watch menu?or airplane mode?for health purposes and that would save some battery too.

[@OutsideChronicles]

On my model, the Tactical version, the is what is called stealth mode that is turned on via the menu that pops up when you hold the ctrl button. It turns off all radios. I believe turning on the power saver mode also disables many of the radios too. Also in that menu.

[@stevek8829]

There is a quick icon to turn off phone connection. It's on the icon wheel accesed by long push on the top left button. I leave it on because the find my phone function has become handy too many tines.

[@seaneckles8558]

Great review!

[@OutsideChronicles]

Thank you!

[@GruntProof]

Outstanding

[@OutsideChronicles]

Thank you!

[@mudsplat]

OK I have a NEW problem with the replacement Garmin Solar they sent me - Solar is working perfectly BUT GPS (which is very important) was showing a major glitch - let me explain (in fact in the text that follows I have used the exact same text for Garmin support): Major GPS issues. Firmware version 16.50 (d18bc08). I recently went out on a walk on a sunny day in the UK and the GPS just would not lock after many attempts. I was very patient with it - and saw the lock ring was nearly 100% around (about 80%) but stayed at 80% without budging for a long while until it went into Power Saver Mode! Weird thing was that when it went back to the clock face it still read 24d battery so power saver mode should not have been necessary? I tried this 5 times in a row and the very exact same thing happened all five times (80% ring - power saver mode - 24d). After about 3km into the 5km walk did the GPS finally lock in. I was in outdoor open space with the sun out. This cannot be right (I have evidential photos of this if you need it). Very very frustrating! The solar power is great but the GPS function is really critical to me!

[@OutsideChronicles]

If you do not start an activity, but are sitting on the Activity start screen that uses GPS for too long, it goes into power save. I have done it accidentally and had power save come on. As for the GPS, hope it is a fluke. Mine locks in quickly unless I have traveled a long way. For example, my GPS will take longer to lock in after a 5 hour drive. My Suunto was like that too.

[@mudsplat]

@@OutsideChronicles I've since found out that my CPE has expired as seen on the Watch. The CPE (also known as EPO) are files used by the watch to predict where the GPS satellites are located in the sky at any given moment. Current EPO or CPE files will allow the device to acquire a signal faster when you are going to record an outdoor activity such as a run or ride. Expired files will result in a much slower time frame before the device determines its current location. I just haven't managed to get my CPE up to date yet ... will keep trying

[@fakenewsisthenews3542]

I just picked this up today. Initially, I hit "skip" for all the permissions to access my calendar, etc. I would also prefer not to constantly get alerts all the time. But the watch kept vibrating and asking me to accept permissions. Finally, to get that to stop, I just accepted it. Can I disable them without my watch to keep asking for them?

[@OutsideChronicles]

Yes, you can disable them in the Garmin Connect app.Click More (bottom right) -> Garmin Devices -> Instinct -> Sounds & Alert -> Smart Notifications -> General Use, Turn off Allow Notifications.

[@fidru]

great review! Iave a question regarding the visibility of the display. It looks a bit to me that its a little more reflective from an 45° angle than the non solar version (which would make it less readable in some situations), or is it the same glas only with the solar cells underneath? planning to replace my standart instinct with a solar or even the solar 2 if it gets a little less pricey.

[@OutsideChronicles]

I do not have one to compare against, but I have not had an issue reading it in various levels of sun and shade. The monochrome display really helps with readability compared to some full color watches. I cannot say if they are the same glass or not, Garmin really does not call it out on any of the models. When I was holding it at angles of the camera, it is a bit deceiving. I would buy the solar versions without hesitation.

[@rthompson884]

how does it keep up with the time? is it using the atomic clock?

[@OutsideChronicles]

It will update the time via GPS. GPS should be atomic time.

[@syedshafathhussain5706]

Should i go for instinct 1 solar or instinct 2 non solar version

[@OutsideChronicles]

Tough one, I think I would go with the newer tech with Instinct 2

[@steventhomas231]

Can you get a map grid reference on this watch?

[@OutsideChronicles]

Do you mean is there a map built into the map? No, you would need to upgrade to the Fenix to get a topo map. The Instinct displays a route, but it is just a line to follow. If you mean can you get MGRS or UTM coordinates of your location or destination, yes.

[@carlashcroft6652]

I'm a novice when it comes to GPS navigation watches. Do you need to pay a subscription for the GPS NAVIGATION or do you just log into it?

[@OutsideChronicles]

You do not need any subscription to use GPS in the watch or other devices. Many vendors and apps will require a subscription for premium maps, offline maps, etc. For this watch, it does not have any maps, so there is no subscription necessary.

[@FiremanFrach]

Silly question. Do you think the original Instinct solar is still relevant or is upgrading to the Instinct solar 2 recommended. Just looking for an opinion. I’m keeping my original.

[@OutsideChronicles]

If buying new, I’d say get the newest tech you can afford. But, like you and me, we have already invested in the older tech, and none of the new features are compelling enough for me to upgrade. I would still recommend a clearance sale on the Instinct 1 Solar. And based on my friends experience with his ancient Forerunner, Garmin does not seem to force obsolescence.

[@FiremanFrach]

@@OutsideChronicles Thank you for your opinion. I forgot to mention that I actually own the solar version. I would add that Garmin connect upgrades the latest software (if needed) every time I charge it so that alone makes it relevant, in my opinion. I found a lot of KZbinrs agree with us👍🏻

[@dally80]

Does this automatically track activity? Say if I start walking would it instantly track steps, calories and heart rate or do I need to pick an activity first? Also does it seem to have decent accuracy to detect calories burned and heart rate during weight lifting in real time? Thanks.

[@OutsideChronicles]

The watch tracks steps, heart rate, flights of steps, sleep and rest automatically. When you start tracking an activity, it becomes more accurate because it samples your HR continuously. It does not automatically detect you are running or riding a bike. The calories burned are based on your heart rate. The optical HR sensor is top notch. Wearing a chest band will always be more accurate than the best optical sensor on your wrist. But in my experience, it is pretty good. As for strength training, yes it records all of the data. You can customize the data screens on the watch to see what you want in real time. When the watch syncs, with the app, you get tons of data, even more than is displayed on the watch's default screens. But you can always customize the screen with just about any data point. Its very flexible.

[@dally80]

@@OutsideChronicles That's great, thanks for the detailed reply.

[@OutsideChronicles]

@@dally80 my pleasure, you will like the watch!

[@philipgraves4155]

I know very little about smartwatches. I got the Garmin Instinct Solar and was able to get it to do what I want (basically just tell me how far I have gone and how long it took me). It also did some other cool things. I was messing around with it and now I cannot seem to get back to using it like before...can't find the right settings! Help? I need a really step-by-step instruction, I fear.

[@OutsideChronicles]

There is a reset option. Hold menu button go to Settings->System->Reset. I would also check out this video kzbin.info/www/bejne/bWjMpHaqibCan68

[@allenreyes451]

Great watch so far but I’m having trouble calibrating the compass. It worked out the box but stopped working after a couple of days; any tips?

[@OutsideChronicles]

I have not had an issue with the compass. I would recalibrate it manually, see pg 20 www8.garmin.com/manuals/webhelp/GUID-A298EB1C-21D9-430F-8D06-A2CC74E5D5E9/EN-US/Instinct_Solar_OM_EN-US.pdf

[@MrDoritis]

Just one issue for me. After wearing my GISTac for 3 months in a row, I noticed a burn mark where the HR sensor contacts my wrist. After changing hands, the issue appeared on my right wrist. Unfortunately this was due to an allergic reaction. To the epoxy material Garmin used on the HR sensor. I now only use all other features except HR. How is your wrist feeling?

[@mradomski]

No issues here, I wear the watch everyday and track HR.

[@TheMattCavender]

What type of subscription is needed to keep these apps and services up? Mostly GPS.

[@OutsideChronicles]

There is no additional monthly subscription needed with these watches. It is just the initial cost of the watch.

[@danielespreafico4385]

While it is true that it is an almost indestructible watch, it is not so in terms of battery In less than 4 years (purchased in December 2020) the battery collapsed and now, in battery saver (estimated duration 56 days) it loses one day per hour, effectively lasting two days or a little more. I asked for support from assistance considering that I bought an identical watch in the same period that has no problem (but it is stuck on release 14.x while mine is on 19.x), they replied that they cannot provide me with the downgrade, which must be sent, if I do not accept any quote they will make me have to spend € 25 to get back a non-working watch, paid € 300, lasted less than 4 years. Used only for tracking steps, sleep, alarm clock and a few training sessions in the gym, never used connected to the phone for messages and calls, never for GPS, altimeter or compass.

[@mwo3896]

Thanks for the review. I am about to buy my first sport watch and I was thinking about garmin instinct solar. Can the Instickt work with Strava? How accurate are barometer and altitudemeter? Does it measure temperature? How accurate? Thank U in advance.

[@OutsideChronicles]

My pleasure, yes Garmin Connect can sync with Strava, see support.strava.com/hc/en-us/articles/216918057-Garmin-and-Strava The barometer and altitude are very accurate and gets updated based on GPS. They say it is +/- 50ft which I would agree with. As for temp, it is very accurate however, it is not as accurate when it is on your wrist and gets skewed by your body heat. If you take the watch off for a bit, the temp is spot on.

[@alteravita624]

I've had it for 10 months but now I have to let it go. It is a good watch, but when you get older and long-sight the font size on this watch gets to small. I think the fixed design with 4 areas is not flexible enough. Why have the fixed circle that eats a lot of the area? I'm back to Suunto again.

[@OutsideChronicles]

Interesting, thanks for the Feedback. Would the Fenix work better? What Suunto are you using? I loved my Ambit3 but their long term support was very lacking. Garmin supports their products longer with better consistency.

[@alteravita624]

@@OutsideChronicles I also came from Ambit3, now I'm moving to a 9 Baro. Fenix might had been a better choice but I think they are too expenisive. I got a 9 Baro Titanium for under $400 now, and I do not need maps, music, wifi... What I liked about the Suunto was that it worked really well, both HW & SW. Garmin is a bit too much for me and SW has not been as stable. I also never got the compass to work on my Instinct, it needs recalibration before every use and is very nervous. Suunto worked every time here. We'll see how it works with the 9 Baro...

[@MrSimkeNS]

Can anyone help me to choose between this Garmin and Huawei Watch 3??? I know it sounds funny to compare that two monsters but I never had smartwatch before and I work hard outside jobs, and in that reason I'm little bit worried about cracking display and stuff on Huawei, so I wanna know is Garmin adequate replacement by functionality? It's not mather to me colour display and phone calls on speaker but functionality

[@Barky2424]

My daughter is going to Kenya for her work study for university. She will be living in a hut and school is in a hut also. Do you think this may be good for her?

[@OutsideChronicles]

What is the use case? Is she using it for tracking or just as a solar watch? It is great at both, but there maybe other options depending on how she plans to use it.

[@Barky2424]

Her major is environmental science. With that said, she will be in restricted areas and going on needed safaris. Her literal hut /building has an internet connection. When she does research in the bushes or whatever they call it, I don't think there is the internet. They are Close to the Tanzania border. I'm thinking of worse-case hiking and the small group getting lost. ( Does that sound like a Mom?) there are no nearby villages. Does a watch have tracking capabilities? Sorry, I can't be more specific, but this is higher than my pay grade.

[@roguewolfblades]

Was reading some reviews about the watch turning peoples wrists red w allergic reactions. Hoping that's not the case for me been doing research on this watch for a little bit. Must be some low grade material they're using for the strap?

[@OutsideChronicles]

I have not heard that. I have not had any issue and I have 4-5 friends that also have this watch and they have not mentioned any issue. You can swap it out. There are several non-garmin, non-plastic options on Amazon.

[@carrygun_]

Ordered dark blue Instinct Solar for 150 EUR/164 USD. Is it worth it? The price is good but I read a lot about issues with hardware/software in this specific model.

[@OutsideChronicles]

That is a great deal. They just released the Instinct 2, so Instinct 1 prices are going to be reduced. There have been many software revisions. Mine has been very stable.

[@DomClimbs]

how does this compare to the 6s pro? ignoring price

[@OutsideChronicles]

The Fenix is far superior to the Instinct. It has full color and Topo maps along with other capabilities. I suggest looking at DC Rainmakers videos on the two watches. He does a great job. See you outside!

[@Darkangel-sw9lm]

I actually think it’s too small for those with medium to bigger wrists. I was pretty disappointed when it arrived. I’ve always liked bigger watches and ended up going with the Fenix 6X Sapphire. Also, I found the strength tracking way off and would have to spend half hour after my workout adjusting it within the app. Bluetooth also disconnects a lot. It’s an ok watch, but I was a little disappointed.

[@Bhunnidb]

Sounds like you got a bad one

[@eddy2561]

I've had my new Instinct solar watch for a month now and I find the heart rate monitor to be inaccurate and erratic....I'm disappointed, my old Fitbit was much more reliable!

[@PhantomTD]

I love the Instinct, I am just unsure about the lifetime of it.. There is no guide on how to replace battery anywhere. On all Casios this is rather easy, even on solar powered ones. Many good features VS durable, last a lifetime..

[@OutsideChronicles]

I agree, I am unsure of how to replace the battery. I have replaced other Garmin batteries, so I am guessing it’s possible. Might not be easy.

[@DatRaccoon1215]

A smart and beautiful young lady you are a very lucky man. 😊

[@OutsideChronicles]

Indeed, see you outside!

[@skrawek28]

Good review. I see Polish roots in your surname ;)

[@OutsideChronicles]

Thank you! Yes, both sides of my family are Polish. My grandparents immigrated to the US when they were teens. Do zobaczenia na zewnątrz

[@OutsideChronicles]

Let me know which watch is your go to hiking GPS watch? Is it the Garmin Instinct Solar, the Garmin Fenix 6 Pro, or something else? From me, the price and G-Shock like looks, size, and durability sold me. It is very light and comfortable to wear. Check out our video: Customize the Instinct for Hiking: kzbin.info/www/bejne/bWjMpHaqibCan68

[@johnnycash7803]

Good video bud. I got mine last week I love it. Plan on using it to record my snowmoblie trips

[@johnnycash7803]

I'm having problems figuring out how or where to get pdx files for a snowmoblie course tho. I got a file on the garmin explorer with all my local trails on it on my phone but once I hit "create route" on garmin explorer those trails go away any suggestions?

[@OutsideChronicles]

@@johnnycash7803 thanks for the comment. Is PDX a typo, should it be GPX. I import the GPX via the plus on the map screen. These then become courses in the Library. These then automatically show up on my watch. Are you following a similar workflow?

[@johnnycash7803]

@@OutsideChronicles yes it was a typo that's what I did to import all the snowmobile trails in my area which I had to pay for to get that gpx. Then when I click on create a route the trails disappear.

[@OutsideChronicles]

@@johnnycash7803 ok, I see what you mean. You want to have the GPX course as a layer so you can trace it. I do not see a way you can do it like that in Explore. My suggestion is import your GPX files into Caltopo (web). Then you can add a route and snap to the GPX line. Then export that new GPX and use Explore to transfer to your watch. I have a few caltopo videos on my channel that show this.

[@280zjammer]

All I want is the coordinates of where I am. Does this watch show that?

[@OutsideChronicles]

All you need to do is hold down the ABC button and scroll to the coordinates screen.

[@280zjammer]

Thank you. Nobody else seems to understand my question or know the answer. Now I can buy one confident that it does what I need.

[@OutsideChronicles]

@@280zjammer Glad it helped!

[@510Link]

Thanks!

[@OutsideChronicles]

My pleasure

[@thiaguinhooitodois2211]

How long does the battery last just in solar alone?

[@OutsideChronicles]

That is a tough question because it is based on usage. If you are using it just as a watch, it will be almost indefinitely. If you wear it overnight to track sleep, it will be less. If you use it to track activities daily, it will be less. If you use the GPS, it will be less. Your usage will determine the battery life plus amount of sun. At 4:14 in my video, there is a chart to help you plan. The watch also has great widgets to keep you informed on battery life and usage.

[@mudsplat]

@@OutsideChronicles Battery life isn't as good as you would expect I'm afraid... about 3-4 days average and that's it.

[@OutsideChronicles]

@@mudsplat Battery life is very dependent on usage. I use the watch to track daily workouts (w/o GPS) and several hikes per week with GPS. I may have to charge 1 week. I do not sleep with my watch on a normal basis. If I do no tracking, the battery barely goes down after several days. For example, I did a 9+ hour hike on Tuesday. I had a full charge at the start. I have since done daily workouts and wear the watch daily. I just had to charge it up with 4 days of charge left last night (Tuesday, a week later)

[@mudsplat]

@@OutsideChronicles Fair enough in your case - however I find the battery disappointing - let me explain how I have mine set up; it's been upgraded to the latest firmware - version 16.0 - after which I reset the watch back to factory defaults. I have basically left all the defaults on and during setup opted to get notifications from my iPhone X. So I haven't complicated the setup - the only activity I did was an outdoor hike which had the GPS on for only 2 hours - and that's the only activity I did over the 4 days after which the watch just wanted to go into battery saver mode. I had it on my wrist overnight while sleeping two of those days. I really did expect the battery life to give me at least 2 weeks before it needed charging - sadly this is not the case at all which is a great shame because like this watch otherwise.

[@mudsplat]

Actually the battery is pretty dire considering what it's cracked up to be. Annoyingly I may be following the popular bandwagon of getting an Apple Watch instead and here's why; the Garmin Instinct Solar on it's second day of use with pretty much default settings is down to an appalling 9 days! This is based on this Weekend - it was fully charged Saturday morning - I did a walk around my town on a rainy day and clocked the walk as a GPS activity which registered 5km (not exactly a demanding walk). It took half-a-km of my walk at the start to register with the GPS satellite. I wore an Apple Watch on my other wrist which got an instant GPS reading from the get-go. On Sunday (today) I walked a 10km walk with both watches on the wrist - GPS was about 20 seconds before registering and again the Apple watch was instant. The walk had the GPS on for 2 hours - so over all the Weekend had about 3.5 hours GPS use altogether. On Sunday the weather was bright and sunny so I got some Solar assistance according to the Watch. However, as I type this on the second day after a full charge I now have 9 days indicated battery life left. Now I know from experience 9 days certainly is not 9 days - percentage wise it looks like 15%. Granted, I did charge the Apple Watch fully on Sunday morning because I expect an AW to be charged daily - but it's really easy to do so with a magnetic puck. The AW right now is showing 69% battery life (7pm UK time). I only feel confident charging the Garmin once every couple of days based on my experience and that is awful! May as well have all the fancy functions of the AW. I really really wanted the Garmin Instinct Solar to perform better - but it does not! It's just not good enough!

[@marko-ino]

He did not mention that you cannot sync the watch to your phone without internet connection.

[@FL_DAD]

Now that the Instinct 2 has been released, do you think it’s worth the additional cost or would you still suggest the original solar? I’m currently finding the Instinct Solar for about $30 less than a non solar Instinct 2.

[@OutsideChronicles]

That is a tough one. I really like the idea and implementation of the solar. However there is a premium for that in the Instinct 2. I also usually suggest go with the newest technology. So you see the dilemma in your question and probably what is going through your mind. My personal opinion would be to go with the Instinct 2 over the Instinct 1 Solar. The new chips and features in the Instinct 2 will extend the battery life on the non-solar model. I would also check out DC Rainmaker's reviews, here is one of them: kzbin.info/www/bejne/j3fMnGltiNN0fLs

[@FL_DAD]

@@OutsideChronicles thanks for the reply! That’s pretty much what I was thinking.

[@icesystem7]

forgot to mention that once the battery expires it goes to the bin as it cannot be replaced...

[@razor23Ukraine]

Crap...nobody told me that the solar version has also improved GPS and heart rate sensor.....I'd have gone for it if I'd known

[@OutsideChronicles]

The non-solar version is still a great watch with similar features. Don’t feel bad, technology always does that unless you always fork over $$ for the latest and greatest each year. See you outside!

[@danhodson8553]

I disagree...My Instinct Solar does not work while climbing stairs or hiking up mountains. Does not count floors climbed correctly, I climb the same floors everyday 25 floors but sometimes it only counts 5 floors up and down and the next time it will count 20 floors. Steps are never the same, intensity can be 150 one day and the next day it reads 5, The Gym and fitness does not count the reps the same from day to day. The only way it works is if you wash the watch with dish soap, dry it and reset the Barometer.

[@OutsideChronicles]

I would consider calling Garmin. Mine is extremely accurate with elevation. It is usually within feet of the map elevation for mountain summits. And my floors and steps are very consistent with my activity. You may have a faulty accelerometer. See you outside!

[@GA-is8ui]

How many alarms does it have?

[@OutsideChronicles]

I do not set too many. I tried the elevation one, but I got annoying because it kept alerting me the whole time above 4k. I get alerted every mile and every 500 ft of elevation now.

[@GA-is8ui]

I should have specified, time alarms *

[@thedyslexicorangutan8049]

i got the surf edition which comes in the 2 worst color schemes a surfer could want

[@OutsideChronicles]

That stinks. I like the moss on the tactical. The pipline in the surf would be similar if it did not have the extra graphics on the band. You can swap that out with a better color.

[@ap7655]

The GPS function is terrible. If you plan on hiking in the woods, the GPS will not connect. I live in a semi wooded area and my time won't even update after daylight savings due to an inability to connect to the Satellites. So unless you are hiking in the dessert or on a treeless mountain the GPS won't work.

[@OutsideChronicles]

I would contact Garmin. I hike in heavily wooded areas and have never had an issue with the GPS locking in. The tracks are also very spot on. The only time it takes maybe 1-2 mins to lock in is if I travel for like 6 hours to a hike (Buffalo to Adirondacks).

[@ap7655]

@@OutsideChronicles Thank you, I will contact them. Everything else with the watch works great. I just won't connect where I live (California redwoods) I'm trying to connect in a clearing and not directly under the trees.

[@johnandmarywhite7259]

I think he is bias to the watch because his wife gave it to him. :) (Just joking!)

[@OutsideChronicles]

Maybe a little, but having used the watch for a year, I am still have a very high opinion of the Instinct and still recommend it to everyone. See you outside!

[@wolfdna788]

It doesn’t even look big on you

[@OutsideChronicles]

I love the size, it is pretty much the same as my Casio G-Shock. I wear the Garmin everyday now.

[@brianrivasoconer5543]

If your poor you Will never be able to aford one of theese

[@RamblingTog]

Three rubbish. Rather have a battery you try charging it

[@AntwonDaBusiness]

Sorry but why do you need to track all that data? I honestly don’t care how far I went and how long. Sorry but tracking different activities with all that data…what does that information provide you? Proof that you did it? I just don’t fucking get it haha. Like seriously who cares haha

[@OutsideChronicles]

There is a famous business quote "You can't improve what you don't measure" Same is true for fitness. Without the data, you cannot see if you are improving your cardio or times running/biking. The data also comes in handy to understand your pace on a mountain to avoid darkness or a storm. I like it. Sorry you do not feel the same. By tracking my sleep, I found certain habits before bed contributed to good and bad nights sleep.

[@Anon_E_Muss]

Does this watch come with a screen protector or do I need to buy one separate?

[@OutsideChronicles]

It does not have a screen protector, but it does have some hardcore corning or gorilla glass AND the bezel protects the screen. It has a military spec toughness. Garmin does not recommend a screen protector b/c it will diminish the solar capability.

[@Anon_E_Muss]

@@OutsideChronicles wow that was a quick response Thank you! Im a petite female but I'm rough on watches so I'm getting this one. Thanks, I'll pull the purchase trigger right now, I appreciate your review and response! Hope you and your family have a Merry Christmas and wonderful new year. Thanks to you I can retire my garmin vivosmart hr. Garmin makes fantastic health / activity watches, I'll never buy another brand.

[@OutsideChronicles]

@@Anon_E_Muss you will not regret it, it’s a great watch.