Screen quality! Garmin Epix Pro 2 Screen: AMOLED |
More autonomy! Garmin Fenix 7 Pro Screen: Transflective |
The Garmin Fenix 7 Pro and the Garmin Epix Pro have emerged strongly and share a wide range of functionalities. These watches present themselves as versatile options for those seeking not only a companion for their workouts, but also a device to accompany them on their outdoor explorations and challenges.
But of course, they also present some fundamental difference…
In this comparison, we’ll explore the similarities and differences between the Garmin Fenix 7 Pro and the Garmin Epix Pro in detail, looking at key things like the display, battery life, and different features. This review will help you make a decision based on your individual needs and preferences. Let’s start!
Garmin Epix Pro 2 vs Garmin Fenix 7 Pro Solar – Comparison Table
Now we are going to go with the comparative table that we always introduce, so you can get an idea of the characteristics of both Smartwatches.
Epix Pro 2 |
Fenix 7 Pro |
|
Weight | 78 grams | 79 grams |
Dimensions (Millimeters) | 47 x 47 x 14.5 mm | 47 x 47 x 14,5 mm |
Lens material | Corning® Gorilla® Glass | Power Glass |
Bezel material | Stainless steel | Stainless steel |
Shell material | Stainless steel | Stainless steel |
Screen type | AMOLED | Transflectiva |
Screen size | 1.30 inches | 1.30 inches |
Resolution | 416 x 416 pixels | 260 x 260 px |
Touch screen | Yes | Yes |
Sensors | GPS + GLONASS + GALILEO + Heart rate monitor + SatIQ technology + barometric altimeter + compass + gyroscope + accelerometer + thermometer + pulse oximetry acclimatization + ambient light sensor | GPS + GLONASS + GALILEO + Heart rate monitor + barometric altimeter + compass + gyroscope + accelerometer + thermometer + pulse oximetry acclimatization + ambient light sensor |
Map display | Yes | Yes |
Solar charging | Yes | Yes |
Autonomy | up to 16 days | up to 22 days |
Autonomy with GPS mode | up to 42 hours | up to 57 hours |
Memory | 32 GB | 32 GB |
Connectivity | Bluetooth, ANT +, Wifi | Bluetooth, ANT +, Wifi |
Compatibility | Android | IPhone | Android | IPhone |
Flashlight | Yes | Yes |
Music playback | Yes | Yes |
Music storage | Yes | Yes |
Garmin Pay | Yes | Yes |
In design and screen there is a clear winner
Although the design is very similar and both offer three sizes (42 mm, 47 mm and 51 mm), there is something that makes us clearly opt for the Garmin Epix Pro 2: its AMOLED screen. This feature makes the screen much brighter and makes it easy to read information even in bright sunlight (which could be trickier on the Fenix 7 Pro’s MIP screen). In addition, the resolution offered by the first one is also higher (416 x 416 pixels > 260 x 260 px).
In both cases, the screen is 1.30 inches and they have fiber-reinforced polymer cases and stainless steel bezels. However, some versions feature a titanium bezel and case.
Another feature of these watches is the incorporation of a flashlight. Previously, this feature was only available on the largest model (Fenix 7X), but here it is available on all sizes. Also, it is a brighter flashlight than the Fenix 7X.
Solar charging makes a difference
One prominent difference between the Fenix 7 Pro and the Epix Pro 2 is the unique addition of solar charging on the Fenix 7 Pro. This photosensitive ring around the screen collects solar energy to extend battery life and makes it last up to 22 days in normal operation and up to 57 in GPS mode.
For its part, the Garmin Epix Pro 2 stays at 16 days and 42 hours respectively.
Identical functionalities and several novelties
A substantial improvement that these Smartwatches have compared to their predecessors is the new Elevate 5 frequency sensor. This new biosensor presents an improvement in its optical design with more spatially diversified diodes to achieve higher precision. In addition, the algorithm has also been adjusted to provide higher quality estimates.
Both the Garmin Fenix 7 Pro and the Epix Pro share quite a few similarities and that is that they incorporate all of the brand’s most advanced health, wellness, performance and intelligence capabilities. They have also introduced new capabilities to track your power during the race. For example, they provide real-time information about how difficult it is to run on sloping terrain. To do this, Garmin analyzes your strength while running on steep inclines, your ability to maintain a constant speed, your maximum aerobic capacity, and your training history. On the other hand, using the same criteria, they also evaluate your ability to sustain prolonged efforts during the race.
On the other hand, they present new activities such as rafting, motocross and overlanding.
One last novelty is found in the Jet Lag assistant. This feature provides useful suggestions to minimize the adverse effects of the time change, offering advice on how to recover effectively. It will guide you through recommendations on light exposure, sleep patterns, and good times for physical activity.
Other functions
Both models have the rest of the functions that we are going to talk about. For example, they have Garmin Pay, which allows you to make contactless payments using the watch. They also offer the ability to download and play music from services like Spotify and Amazon Music. Additionally, both feature an app store on the watch itself, making it easy to install apps directly from the watch instead of relying on syncing with your phone.
Something that still does not convince us about Garmin smartwatches is that they lack a voice assistant and do not allow calls directly from the wrist. Although it is possible to receive notifications from the phone on them, you cannot reply to messages from the watch either.
Conclusion – Which Smartwatch do we recommend, Garmin Epix Pro 2 or Garmin Fenix 7 Pro Solar?
In short, both the Garmin Fenix 7 Pro and the Garmin Epix Pro offer a wide range of similar features in the realm of sports and adventure smartwatches.
If we consider the screen, the recommended option would be the Garmin Epix Pro 2, which features an AMOLED screen and with a higher resolution. Although the cost is slightly higher, the difference is not significant given this additional feature.
On the other hand, if battery life is a primary factor in your choice, the Garmin Fenix 7 Pro Solar would be the right choice. Thanks to its solar charging capability, this model provides exceptional autonomy, which is essential for long adventures without worrying about constant recharging. In addition, we especially recommend it for those adventurers who require GPS technology for a long time.