Garmin has unveiled its latest high-end sports watch, the Fenix 8 Pro, which combines a striking design with cutting-edge technology for serious athletes and outdoor enthusiasts. Priced from around £1,000, depending on size and strap options, this watch aims to deliver a premium experience that rivals luxury timepieces while packing in Garmin's most advanced features.
First Impressions and Design
From the moment you unbox the Fenix 8 Pro, it's clear this is a special product. The packaging features a beautifully designed mechanism where the internal section rises as you lift the heavy lid, presenting the watch and two straps in an elegant display. The 47mm version tested, in carbon grey with a brown leather band, is a gorgeous piece to behold, with a durable structure that exudes quality without reaching the ultra-luxury Marq range's wow factor.
Display and Build Quality
One of the first things you'll notice is the stunning AMOLED screen, which is bright, high-contrast, and coated in sapphire crystal to resist scuffs. The watch is beautifully weighted and comfortable on the wrist, with five physical buttons that respond well to input. The overall design is both aesthetically pleasing and functional, making it a stylish accessory for everyday wear.
Advanced Technology and Features
The Fenix 8 Pro essentially bundles almost every feature Garmin offers into one device. Key specifications include multi-band satellite GPS for accurate tracking, phone-free messaging and voice calls via Garmin's inReach/LTE connectivity, and built-in SOS/emergency tools when subscribed to the inReach plan. This allows users to send messages from remote locations like mountains, lakes, or deep forests, enhancing safety during adventures.
Battery Life and Performance
Battery life is a standout feature, with Garmin promising up to 15 days on a single charge. In testing, while the full 15 days wasn't quite achieved, a week of solid use, including active GPS tracking, posed no problems. This impressive endurance makes it ideal for extended outdoor activities without frequent recharging.
Fitness and Health Tracking
The fitness and health tracking capabilities are highly polished, offering advanced training metrics, recovery insights, and sleep tracking. These functions are easily accessible through the watch's touchscreen interface, and users can set up shortcuts for commonly-used workouts. The watch tracks location, health metrics, and pace effectively, though it lacks automatic activity recording, a feature available on some lesser models.
User Experience and Drawbacks
While the Fenix 8 Pro excels in many areas, there are a few drawbacks. The Garmin app remains complicated to navigate and could benefit from a redesign. Additionally, the watch uses a plug-in charger rather than wireless magnetic charging, which feels somewhat budget for such a luxury item. The LTE and satellite features also come with subscription costs and regional limitations, adding to the overall expense.
Value and Comparison
At over £1,000, the Fenix 8 Pro is a significant investment, but it offers durability, aesthetics, and incredible battery life that justify the price for those seeking a premium sports watch. Many of its functionalities can be found in cheaper Garmin models, making the non-Pro versions a more budget-friendly option for essential features. However, for users who value a physically attractive timepiece and advanced tech, the Fenix 8 Pro holds its own against luxury brands like Rolex and Breitling in terms of design and capability.
In summary, the Garmin Fenix 8 Pro is a top-tier sports watch that blends premium design with serious sports technology. While it may not be for everyone due to its high cost and subscription fees, it delivers on performance, style, and innovation for dedicated athletes and outdoor adventurers.
