Epix 2 or Fenix 7 - which Garmin to choose? Detailed overview of the watches
Garmin
Epix 2 or Fenix 7 - which Garmin to choose? Detailed overview of the watches
If you read this overview, there are chances that you're in search of a watch that can seamlessly transition from everyday wear to extreme sporting adventures. Both the Garmin Fenix 7 and Epix 2 offer similar functionalities. The key differences are in their design and battery life, which can ultimately influence your decision. Ready? Let's dive into our review of Garmin watches!
Available versions of the Garmin Epix 2 and Fenix 7 — what are the differences between Sapphire, Standard and Solar versions?
We may find ourselves wondering about the various options available on the market. Epix 2 or Fenix 7 series offer models that differ in design and battery power systems. To help you decide, let’s briefly summarise the available options.
The Garmin Epix 2 boasts only two variants, but is available in several colours, all with a 47 mm diameter case. For added accuracy of measurement in challenging terrain, the Sapphire models also support multiband GPS.
- epix™ (Gen 2) - Slate Steel — fibre-fibre-reinforced polymer case, steel rear cover, steel case back, Gorilla® Glass, display resolution: 416 x 416 pixels, storage: 16 GB
- epix™ (Gen 2) Sapphire — fibre-fibre-reinforced polymer case, titanium or DLC titanium rear cover, steel case back, sapphire glass, display resolution: 416 x 416 pixels, storage: 32 GB
The Garmin Fenix 7 offers many variants. One can choose three different case diameters, i.e. 42 mm (S version), 47 mm (Standard version) and 51 mm (X version).
- fēnix® 7S – Standard - 42 mm fibre-fibre-reinforced polymer case, stainless steel rear cover, metal case back, Gorilla Glass, 240x240 px, 16 GB
- fēnix® 7S – Solar - 42 mm fibre-fibre-reinforced polymer case, stainless steel rear cover, metal case back, Power Glass™, possible battery recharging via solar energy, 240x240 px, 16 GB
- fēnix® 7S – Sapphire Solar - 42 mm fibre-fibre-reinforced polymer case, titanium rear cover, titanium case back, Power Sapphire™, possible battery recharging via solar energy, 240x240 px, 32 GB
- fēnix® 7 – Standard - 47 mm fibre-fibre-reinforced polymer case, stainless steel rear cover, metal case back, Gorilla Glass, 260x260 px, 16 GB
- fēnix® 7 – Solar - 47 mm fibre-fibre-reinforced polymer case, stainless steel rear cover, metal case back, Power Glass™, possible battery recharging via solar energy, 260x260 px, 16 GB
- fēnix® 7 – Sapphire Solar -
- 47 mm fibre-fibre-reinforced polymer case, titanium rear cover, titanium case back, Power Sapphire™, possible battery recharging via solar energy, 260x260 px, 32 GB
- fēnix® 7X – Solar - 51 mm fibre-fibre-reinforced polymer case, stainless steel rear cover, metal case back, Power Glass™, possible battery recharging via solar energy, 280x280 px, 16 GB
- fēnix® 7X – Sapphire Solar - 51 mm fibre-fibre-reinforced polymer case, titanium rear cover, titanium case back, Power Sapphire™, possible battery recharging via solar energy, 280x280 px, 32 GB
The Solar models are powered by an additional battery that can be charged by any light source, resulting in extended battery life. In addition to the solar power, the Sapphire Solar models boast an improved titanium construction and 32 GB memory.
Key difference — Garmin watch displays
One of the key differences is the type of display. Garmin takes this element very seriously in its watches, so it offers users some alternatives that will work best for them.
- Garmin Fenix 7: transflective MIP (memory in pixel) display that is supposed to be easy to read in sunlight. Its advantage is low battery consumption with continuous activity, display resolution: 260x260px (the 47mm version).
- Garmin Epix 2: AMOLED display with rich colours (similar to smartwatches). The screen is much more vivid than the Fenix 7, which results in increased battery consumption. Its display resolution is 416x416 px.
The question is, what's more important to you: a brighter screen or longer battery life? The users like the Epix 2 for more detailed maps at the same scale. On the other hand, the users of the Fenix 7 consider the battery life more important.
Battery life — important difference between the Epix 2 and Fenix 7
Since the Fenix 7 series offers multiple variants, let's focus on comparing the version with a 47mm case — whose diameter is the same as that of the Garmin Epix 2. According to the manufacturer's stated running times in certain modes, the Fenix 7 series boasts a better battery life. This may be due to its MIP display, as previously mentioned. However, the Garmin Epix 2 still offers enough battery power for your favourite sports activities, whether you're outside or at the gym. All watches can be charged via a cable. The Solar models can generate their own energy from any light source. Additionally, the battery life of both series can be extended by using the save mode.
Similar features of the Garmin Fenix 7 and Epix 2
Both the Fenix 7 and Epix 2 are watches designed for adventure, different weather conditions and challenges. The functionality of both is very similar. They are equipped, among others, with:
- Health monitoring: pulse oximeter, determination of stress level, respiration rate, heart rate zones, heart rate variability, Body Battery™ level, sleep tracking and hydration tracking
- GPS sensors, Glonass, Galileo, compass, barometer, gyroscope, accelerometer, acclimatisation, thermometer
- Access to topographical maps, ski route maps and golf course maps
- Bluetooth®, ANT+®, Wi-Fi® connectivity
- Water resistance of 10 ATM
- Access to Garmin Connect and Connect IQ apps
- Music control and playback
- Garmin Pay contactless payments
- Phone notifications, display of text messages, incoming calls
- Hiit exercises — track your interval training, fitness activity profiles, elliptical trainer activity, stair stepper activity, floors count, indoor rowing, pilates and yoga
- Training guidance
- PacePro™ technology helps keep you on pace with grade-adjusted guidance as you run a course
- ClimbPro informs you on current and upcoming ascents and descents, including slope, distance, and elevation
- MTB (Mountain Bike) dynamics
- Cycling profiles: biking, road biking, mountain biking, cross-country biking, bike commuting, bike touring, eBiking, eMountain biking, indoor biking, triathlon
- Swimming: pool and open water swim, swimming/running
- Outdoor profiles: hiking,indoor climbing, bouldering, climbing, mountain biking, skiing, snowboarding, XC skiing, stand up paddleboarding, rowing, kayaking, surfing, hunting, kiteboarding, windsurfing, snow shoe activity, fishing, horse riding, jumpmaster function, tennis, pickleball, tactical activities, disc golf
Garmin Epix 2 or Fenix 7 — which watch to choose?
Both watches make excellent sports companions, and the choice ultimately depends on your expectations. Interestingly, the price difference between the Garmin Epix 2 and Fenix 7 Standard watches isn’t significant. Ask yourself a question — do you prefer a colour display that drains the battery faster, or a longer-lasting battery with a less colourful display? What are your priorities? For avid adventurers who enjoy long expeditions and overnight stays in remote wilderness areas, the Garmin Fenix 7 watch, particularly the Solar version, would be the better choice. Having personally used both models, I recommend choosing the Sapphire version with a titanium rear cover. The Epix 2 sports watch is also suitable for people who enjoy long expeditions and don’t mind charging the watch more frequently.
Where to buy an original Garmin watch?
You can buy original Garmin watches on our website Watchard.com. We offer lots of series, including Vivoactive, Forerunner and Instinct. Be sure to check out Garmin accessories like cyclometers or interchangeable straps. Discover!
