Garmin Fenix 8
VERDICT
Garmin has finally closed the gap. By adding a microphone and speaker for voice commands and offering a stunning AMOLED display option, the Fenix 8 is no longer just for "hardcore" athletes. It's now a viable smartwatch for everyone. But make no mistake: its heart is still pure sports performance, with metrics that embarrass the Apple Watch.
The Big Picture
While Apple tells you "you closed your rings," Garmin tells you "you are overtraining, rest for 12 hours." The Fenix 8 is a coach, not a cheerleader. It uses HRV (Heart Rate Variability) to measure your body's stress and recovery levels with medical precision. And yes, it has a built-in LED flashlight that is surprisingly the most useful feature you never knew you needed.
🔦 Built-in LED Flashlight
The Utility: It’s not a screen trick; it’s a real torch on the top of the watch.
Use Case: Whether you are running at night and want cars to see you (strobe mode) or trying to find your keys under the car seat, this powerful light is always on your wrist. Once you use it, you can't go back.
📈 Endurance Score
Beyond VO2 Max.
The Metric: This new score analyzes your long-term training load to tell you how capable you are of sustaining prolonged effort. It combines data from all your sports (cycling, running, swimming) to give you a single number representing your "grit."
✅ The Pros
- Battery: 16 days (AMOLED) to 30+ days (Solar). Apple can't compete.
- Maps: Full offline topographic maps are pre-loaded and routable.
- Build: 10 ATM water rating and dive-ready buttons (leak-proof).
- Voice: Finally has a mic/speaker to take calls or use voice assistants.
❌ The Cons
- Smart Features: Still no LTE/Cellular option; you need your phone for data.
- Price: Extremely expensive ($999+).
- Bulk: It is thick and heavy, making it uncomfortable for sleep tracking for some people.
🤔 Should you buy it?
YES if you charge your Apple Watch every day and hate it. Get the Fenix 8 and charge it once a month.
NO if you rely on Siri to send texts or want a sleek fashion accessory (stick with the Apple Watch Ultra 3).
See the showdown: Garmin Fenix 8 vs. Samsung Galaxy Watch Ultra Comparison