The Fenix series of watches is Garmin's top-of-the-range sports watch. Designed for outdoor and performance use, these models are the most comprehensive in terms of functionality on the market today. Garmin continues to innovate every year, adding new features, new sensors, improved components, including the screen, design, robustness and autonomy.
The new Fenix 7 is an improved version of the excellent Fenix 6. Here is an overview of its novelties followed by a detailed comparison between the 2 watches and our opinion at the end of the article.
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Fenix and 7Fenix 6: 2 high-end watches for outdoor and performance
Garmin Fenix 6: a new screen, better autonomy, more features and a solar version
The Garmin Fenix 6 is a stylish, high-end multi-sport and triathlon watch designed to be worn on a daily basis in addition to sport. Improved version of the Fenix 5 Plus, it comes in different versions (including a solar version) and several case sizes to fit all wrists. It offers comprehensive sports functions (advanced performance analysis tools, athlete assistance, physiological measurements, etc.) and excellent health monitoring (stress, blood oxygen, respiration, hydration, recovery and more). The mp3 player and mapping are optional to offer a cheaper model for people who don't need it.
Read our detailed Garmin Fenix 6 review and opinion
Buy the Garmin Fenix 6
Garmin Fenix 7 : an extra touch screen, huge battery life and new features
The Fenix 7 has the same features as the Fenix 6 but with a sleeker design, new components and features and improved battery life. The range has been simplified to make it easier for users to find their way around. Available in 3 case sizes, it comes in 3 versions (Standard, Solar and Sapphire Solar) with different glass qualities (Corning Gorilla DX or sapphire). All models now include mapping, an MP3 player and WiFi. For the first time, Garmin is offering sapphire glass on a solar model. The screen becomes touch-sensitive. The autonomy explodes, increasing from 50 to over 100% depending on the model. Garmin adds useful new sports features. Multi-GNSS and multi-frequency GPS, which are more accurate, are offered on certain models. Finally, the 7X model includes a LED torch.
Read our Fenix 7 review and opinion< br>Buy the Garmin Fenix 7
Fenix 7 versus Fenix:6 the differences in brief
The Fenix 7 inherits all the features of the Fenix 6 and has some interesting new features. It also inherits the latest features offered on the recent Garmin connected watches (Vivoactive 4 and (5. 100Venu 2)) that the Fenix 6 will not have.
In addition, Garmin has added a touch screen to the watch (which can be deactivated) and slightly changed the design for an even more elegant look. It was also necessary to gain space to increase the surface of the photovoltaic sensor of the solar models without impacting the size of the watch and the screen and this was obtained by thinning the bezel. The autonomy is significantly improved and now rivals the Coros Vertix 2.
Here are the main differences between the Fenix and7 the Fenix 6. You will find a summary of these differences in comparison tables later in this article.
- A revised design: refined bezel, attachment to the watch lugs.
- A new touch screen with the ability to use the buttons as before.
- A simplification of the range: still 3 case sizes but only 3 editions with or without solar charging, differing in the quality of the glass (Corning Gorilla DX or sapphire) and offering all the same options (except for a few details, read more below). Garmin offers a solar watch with a sapphire crystal, a first.
- New sensors: new optical wrist heart rate monitor and oximeter (4th generation).
- Mapping, MP3 player and WiFi across all models. World mapping pre-loaded on Sapphire models.
- Ski and cross-country maps and golf courses pre-loaded on all models with trail names and difficulty.
- A significantly improved autonomy: +50% to +100% depending on the model, up to 122 h in GPS mode for the Fenix 7X. Solar autonomy becomes really interesting.
- A multi-GNSS GPS on all models and dual frequency on Solar Sapphire models.
- New features including Real-time Stamina (endurance level), Up-ahead, a screen summarising performance and useful information around you, the Trend Race Predictor which displays the evolution of running performance over the last 4 weeks, the recovery time which takes into account new parameters, the Daily training suggestions , already present on recent Garmin models and also present on the Fenix 6, a health check displaying the main metrics after a test. New sports profiles (HIIT and water activities mainly) are added as well as animated exercises for training.
- Display improvements (graphical displays in particular)
- Memory: down to 16GB (from 32GB) except on the Sapphire Solar edition.
- The addition of a LED torch to the Fenix 7X to see and be seen, especially when trail riding at night.
- Full watch setup from Garmin Connect with real-time 2-way sync.
- Access to the Connect IQ shop directly on the watch to load widgets, apps and mapping directly from the watch without going through the phone.
You can find more information on these new features in our Garmin Fenix 7 Review.
Note that Garmin still does not offer an ECG on this model, nor a native power sensor on the wrist (like Polar and now Coros), nor a microphone and speaker. The definition of the screen does not evolve either.
| Characteristics | 6 | 6 Pro | 7 Standard | 7 Solar | 7 Sapphire Solar |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Touchscreen | X | X | • | • | • |
| MP3 player | X | • | • | • | • |
| Mapping | X | • | • | • | • |
| On-board map | X | • | X | X | • |
| Dual-frequency GPS | X | X | X | X | • |
| Solar charging | • | • | X | • | • |
| Sapphire glass | • | • | X | X | • |
| Titanium bezel | • | • | X | X | • |
| Garmin Pay | • | • | • | • | • |
Fenix 7 versus Fenix 6: the differences reviewed in detail
Design, weight and dimensions
Garmin offers the Fenix 7 in 3 case sizes (42mm, 47mm and 51mm), as with the Fenix 6, to fit even the thinnest of wrists. The screen remains the same size (1.2", 1.3" and 1.4") and the same definition.
The range is simplified. The Fenix 6 offered an ?a carte watch with options (cartography, MP3 player, Wifi), different glass qualities, solar models (but no sapphire glass on these models). The Fenix 7 comes in 3 models available in the 3 sizes (except for the Fenix 7X) and offering the same or almost the same functions:
- Standard: DX Corning Gorilla glass, steel bezel, 16GB memory
- Solar: Standard model + solar charging (Power Glass in DX Corning Gorilla)
- Sapphire Solar: Solar model + sapphire crystal (Power Sapphire) + titanium bezel + 32GB memory + dual frequency GPS
There are the Fenix 7S/7 Standard, Fenix 7S/7/7X Solar and Fenix 7S/7/7X Sapphire Solar models.
On the Fenix 6, the solar-charged models were equipped with Power Glass made of Corning Gorilla Glass. Sapphire was not offered as Garmin did not have the technology to include it in its Power Glass. The Fenix 7 changes all that. The Power Sapphire offers both ultra-resistant sapphire glass and solar charging. This makes for a complete and more robust watch.
| Fenix 7 : | Standard | Solar | Sapphire Solar |
|---|---|---|---|
| Glass | Corning Gorilla DX | Corning Gorilla DX | Sapphire |
| Bezel | Steel | Steel | Titanium |
| Solar charging | X | • | • |
| Multi-GNSS | X | • | • |
| Dual frequency GPS | X | X | X |
| Preloaded world map | X | X | X |
| Memory | 16 GB | 16 GB | 32 GB |
The design has evolved. The bezel has been lengthened to be fixed to the lugs of the watch, either by gluing (Fenix 7S) or by means of screws (Fenix 7 and 7X). Garmin has also slimmed down the bezel to save space for a larger photovoltaic sensor area. See our photo below juxtaposing the Fenix 6 and Fenix 7.
The Fenix 7 is a little thinner. On the other hand, the Fenix 7X gains a little weight (7 g) in the titanium version, making it almost as heavy as the Fenix 6X steel.
| Features | Fenix 6S | Fenix 7S | Fenix 6 | Fenix 7 | Fenix 6X | Fenix 7X |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
 |  | | |  | | |
| Wrist | End | Fine | Standard | Standard | Large | Large |
| Weight (steel bezel) | 60-61g | 63 g | 83-85 g | 79 g | 93 g | 96 g |
| Weight (Titanium bezel) | - | 58 g | 72-73 g | 73 g | 82 g | 89 g |
| Case (mm) | 42 | 42 | 47 | 47 | 51 | 51 |
| Thickness (mm) | 13,8-14,2 | 14,1 | 14,7-15,1 | 14,5 | 14,9 | 14,9 |
| Screen (mm) | 30,4 | 30,4 | 33,02 | 33,02 | 35,56 | 35,56 |
| Screen (") | 1,2" | 1,2" | 1,3" | 1,3" | 1,4" | 1,4" |
| Definition (px) | 240x240 | 240x240 | 260x260 | 260x260 | 280x280 | 280x280 |
| Wristband width | 20 mm | 20 mm | 22 mm | 22 mm | 26 mm | 26 mm |
Price and technical specifications. A new touch screen.
The price of the Fenix 7 starts at €699, compared to €599 for the Fenix 6, with the extra €100 justified by the presence of the mapping and MP3 player now standard. The price is the same for the same features, but you lose the option of buying a cheaper model if you don't need these functions.
The big new feature of the Fenix 7 is its touch screen, which is very useful for map manipulation. It is very responsive and sensitive. The function can be disabled. The buttons remain unchanged and allow the watch to be used as before.
The Sapphire Solar model has 32GB of memory which allows it to come with a pre-loaded world map. On the other models, you have to download the maps in the 16 GB of memory available. The download is free and is done from the watch.
The Fenix 7 can be fully configured from Garmin Connect (and not just from the watch): data fields, profile customisation, widget settings, watchface, etc. Synchronisation is done in both directions and in real time.
| Specifications | Fenix 6 Standard (Solar) | Fenix 6 Pro (Solar) | Fenix 6X Pro (Solar) | Fenix 7 Standard | Fenix 7 Solar | Fenix 7 Sapphire Solar |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| | | | | | |
| Price (€) | 450-700 | 580-730 | 630-900 | 700 | 800-900 | 900-1200 |
| Bezel | Steel | Steel or Titanium | Steel or Titanium | Steel | Steel | Titanium |
| Glass | Corning Gorilla or Sapphire or Power Glass | Corning Gorilla or Sapphire or Power Glass | Corning Gorilla or Sapphire or Power Glass | DX Corning Gorilla | Power Glass (Corning Gorilla) | Power Glass (Sapphire) |
| Screen type | MIP | MIP | MIP | MIP | MIP | MIP |
| Color Screen | • | • | • | • | • | • |
| Touch screen | X | X | X | • | • | • |
| Memory | 64 MB | 32 GB | 32 GB | 16 GB | 16 GB | 32 Gb |
| Solar Recharge | • | • | • | X | • | • |
| Interchangeable bracelet without tools | 20 mm | 20 mm | 22 mm | 22 mm | 26 mm | 26 mm |
| Water resistance | 10 ATM | 10 ATM | 10 ATM | 10 ATM | 10 ATM | 10 ATM |
| Connectivity | Bluetooth Smart ANT+ | Bluetooth Smart ANT+ Wi-Fi | Bluetooth Smart ANT+ Wi-Fi | Bluetooth Smart ANT+ Wi-Fi | Bluetooth Smart ANT+ Wi-Fi | Bluetooth Smart ANT+ Wi-Fi |
| Setting up from Garmin Connect | X | X | X | • | • | • |
The main tools
While the Fenix 7 does not add any new sensors, it does offer, depending on the model, a multi GNSS and dual frequency GPS as well as a torch (3 LEDs, white or red illumination and a user-defined operating mode).
| Features | Fenix 6 Standard | Fenix 6 Pro | Fenix 7 |
|---|---|---|---|
| GPS | • | • | • |
| Dual frequency GPS | X | X | • |
| Wrist cardio | • | • | • |
| Pulse oximeter | • | • | • |
| ECG | X | X | X |
| MP3 player | X | • | • |
| Mapping | X | • | • |
| Wi-Fi | X | • | • |
| LTE connectivity | X | X | X |
| Barometric altimeter | • | • | • |
| Flashlight (LEDs) | X | X | • |
| Compass | • | • | • |
| Thermometer | • | • | • |
Sensors: a more accurate GPS according to the Fenix 7 model
The Fenix 7 has a new optical heart rate monitor on the wrist (4th generation). The GPS is also improved. It becomes multi-GNSS, meaning it can connect to multiple satellite systems simultaneously, improving reception quality. On the Fenix 7 Sapphire Solar, it is multi-frequency, which makes it possible to correct certain errors, including those linked to the reverberation of signals against surfaces (mountains, buildings, trees). Read our explanation of the multi-frequency GPS.
| Features | Fenix 6 | Fenix 7 |
|---|---|---|
| GPS | GPS, GLONASS, Galileo, QZSS | GPS, GLONASS, Galileo, QZSS, IRNSS |
| Multi-GNSS | X | • |
| Dual frequency GPS | X | • |
| Wrist cardio | • | • |
| Underwater wrist cardio | • | • |
| Barometer | • | • |
| Barometric altimeter | • | • |
| Manual altimeter calibration | • | • |
| Compass | • | • |
| Gyroscope | • | • |
| Accelerometer | • | • |
| Thermometer | • | • |
| Pulse oximeter | • | • |
| ECG | X | X |
| External sensors | ANT+, Bluetooth | ANT+, Bluetooth |
| Home trainer control (ANT+ FE-C) | • | • |
| NFC chip (contactless payment) | • | • |
Autonomy: +50% and up to twice as much with solar charging
Garmin increases the autonomy of its watch by about 50%. Solar charging, still modest on the Fenix 6, becomes really interesting on the Fenix 7 thanks to the increase in the surface of the photovoltaic sensor. The Fenix 7 (the mid-size model) can thus last for almost 90 hours in GPS mode with a recording every second and another 33 hours if the watch is exposed to direct sunlight during the ride.
Note a significant drop in autonomy with the GPS in multi-GNSS and dual frequency mode, the latter being particularly energy consuming.
| Mode | Fenix 6S (+Solar) | Fenix 6 (+Solar) | Fenix 6X (+Solar) | Fenix 7S (+Solar) | Fenix 7 (+Solar) | Fenix 7X (+Solar) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Connected watch (*) | 9d (+1,5) | 14d (+2) | 21d (+3) | 11d (+3) | 18d (+4) | 28d (+9) |
| GPS (GPS only) (**) | 25h (+3) | 36h (+4) | 60h (+6) | 37h (+9) | 57h (+16) | 89h (+33) |
| GPS (multi GNSS) (*) | - | - | - | 26h (+4) | 40h (+8) | 63h (+14) |
| GPS (multi GNSS, dual frequency) (**) | - | - | - | 15h (+1) | 23h (+3) | 36h (+5) |
| GPS UltraTrac (**) | 50h (+14) | 72h (+21) | 120h (+28) | 90h (+72) | 136h (+153) | 213d (+365) |
| GPS (multi GNSS) + Music | 6 h | 10 h | 15h (+1) | 7h | 10 h | 16 h |
| Shipping (*) | 20d (+6) | 28d (+8) | 46d (+10) | 26d (+17) | 40d (+34) | 62d (+77) |
| Battery saving (*) | 34d (+25) | 48d (+32) | 80d (+10) | 38d (+49) | 57d (+116) | 90d (>1 year) |
Sports features
Garmin has taken all the features from the Fenix 6, added sports profiles (these will also be available on the Fenix 6) and added or improved some features. For a detailed explanation of what's new, see our Garmin Fenix 7 Review.
The user interface is improved. The screens available during sports recordings can now display graphs of certain data. On-board mapping allows the Climb Pro and Pace Pro functions to be used without having to load and follow a route first.
The new Stamina function is an interesting aid for athletes to better manage their running (indicator of available energy evaluated in real time).
Both Fenix 7 and Fenix 6 benefit from the daily workout suggestions and improved recovery time assessment (taking into account additional parameters) already offered on recent Garmin models (e.g. Forerunner 945 LTE).
For trail runners, the Fenix 7 displays running and walking times separately.
| Model | Fenix 6 | Fenix 7 |
|---|---|---|
| No. of sports | 55+ | 55+ |
| Multi-sport (sequences) | • | • |
| Suggested daily workout | • | • |
| Animated exercises | X | • |
| Downloadable training programs | • | • |
| Race time predictor | • | • |
| Audio instructions | • | • |
| Real time stamina | X | • |
| Displays walking time (Trail) | X | • |
| Workout download | • | • |
| Fractional | • | • |
| Training follow-up | • | • |
| Effort test | • | • |
| Physical condition | • | • |
| Virtual partner and racer | • | • |
| Strava (tag, dynamic segments) | • | • |
| Segments (Live, Garmin) | • | • |
| Ski power (with sensor) | X | • |
| Auto Lap | • | • |
| Manual lap | • | • |
| Configurable track alerts | • | • |
| Virtual Partner | • | • |
| Virtual Racer | • | • |
| Strava functions | • | • |
| Automatic pause | • | • |
| Automatic and manual multi-sport | • | • |
| Heat and altitude acclimation | • | • |
| Popular routes generator | (1) | • |
| Round trip course generator | (1) | • |
| ClimbPro™ function | (2) | • |
| PacePro | (2) | • |
| Elevation profile | • | • |
| Golf Features | • | • |
| Preloaded golf courses | (1) | • |
| Coupling with Garmin Golf app | X | • |
| Model | Fenix 6 | Fenix 6 Pro | Fenix 7 |
|---|---|---|---|
| PacePro | • | • | • |
| Running dynamics (e.g. cadence, stride length...) | • | • | • |
| Running training | • | • | • |
| Running time predictor | • | • | • |
| Stride sensor compatible | • | • | • |
| Stryd power sensor compatible | • | • | • |
| ClimbPro (climbs, descents) | • | • | • |
| Trendline (heat maps) | • | • | • |
| Model | Fenix 6 | Fenix 6 Pro | Fenix 7 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Popular Path Generator | X | • | • |
| Round trip course generator | X | • | • |
| ClimbPro™ function | • | • | • |
| Road and bike maps | X | • | • |
| Cadence sensor compatible | • | • | • |
| Varia compatible | • | • | • |
| Power sensor compatible | • | • | • |
| Vector compatible | • | • | • |
| Advanced Vector support | • | • | • |
| Cycling dynamics | |||
| Sitting and dancing position | • | • | • |
| Power phase (PP) | • | • | • |
| Offset from the center of the platform | • | • | • |
| Right/left balance | • | • | • |
| Mountain bike dynamics | |||
| Consistency | • | • | • |
| Difficulty | • | • | • |
| Model | Fenix 6 | Fenix 7 |
|---|---|---|
| Swim metrics | • | • |
| Swim type detection | • | • |
| Swim efficiency (SWOLF) | • | • |
| Workout recording | • | • |
| Swim workouts | • | • |
| Open water swimming metrics | • | • |
| HR measurement and tracking | • | • |
| Measure HR at the wrist underwater | • | • |
Functions for outdoor and GPS navigation
The Fenix 7 allows you to download any map of the world for free from the Garmin website. The download can be done directly from the watch. Thanks to its huge memory, the Sapphire Solar model has the advantage of being pre-loaded with a world map.
Garmin offers ski and now cross-country maps for over 2000 ski resorts worldwide. These maps are pre-loaded on all Fenix 7 models.
The new Up-ahead function allows you to see, on a single screen, performance metrics, split times, distance and altitude, as well as useful information previously defined when programming the route: distance to the next refuelling point, distance to the finish, next difficult turn, distance to the next viewpoint, etc.
| Model | Fenix 6 | Fenix 6 Pro | Fenix 7 |
|---|---|---|---|
| GPS track on the watch | • | • | • |
| Route tracking | • | • | • |
| Trackback to the start | • | • | • |
| Turn-by-turn guidance | • | • | • |
| Voice guidance | • | • | • |
| Snap to route GPS | X | X | X |
| Mapping | X | • | • |
| Preloaded mapping | • | • | • |
| Bike lanes | X | • | • |
| Ski trails | X | • | • |
| ClimbPro | • | • | • |
| Up-ahead | X | X | • |
| Vertical speed | • | • | • |
| Distance to destination | • | • | • |
| "Around me" mode | X | • | • |
| Total ascent/descent | • | • | • |
| Altitude profile | • | • | • |
| Future altitude profile | X | • | • |
| Round trip generator | X | • | • |
| Trendline (popular routes) | X | • | • |
| Projected waypoint | • | • | • |
| Fishing & hunting calendar | • | • | • |
| Tide information | • | • | • |
| Moon/sun information | • | • | • |
| XERO position (archery, rifle sight) | • | • | • |
Physiological measurements
Garmin offers an adjusted VO2max estimate for trail rides. Blood oxygen level monitoring improves for high altitude rides with more complete and practical indications.
| Features | Fenix 6 | Fenix 7 |
|---|---|---|
| VO2max (running) | • | • |
| VO2max (trail) | X | • |
| Run time prediction | • | • |
| Aerobic Training Effect | • | • |
| Anaerobic training effect | • | • |
| Recovery time | • | • |
| Training load | • | • |
| Training status | • | • |
| Training load target | • | • |
| VFC Stress Test | • | • |
| Fitness (resting test) | • | • |
| Primary benefit (Training Effect labels) | • | • |
| Lactic threshold | • | • |
| Breathing Rate 24/7 | • | • |
| Blood oxygenation (SpO2) | • | • |
| Breathing rate during activity | • | • |
| Heat and altitude acclimation | • | • |
Connected and safety functions
The Fenix 7 can be used to control a home trainer. In addition, the watch's settings can now be made from Garmin Connect. All settings that can be changed on the watch can be changed on a smartphone or computer with real-time synchronisation from the application to the watch and vice versa.
| Function | Fenix 6 | Fenix 7 |
|---|---|---|
| Smart notifications | • | • |
| Call answer/reject with SMS (Android only) | • | • |
| Smartphone music control | • | • |
| MP3 player | • | • |
| Music capacity | 2000 tracks | 2000 titles |
| Contactless payment | • | • |
| LTE / 4G connectivity | X | X |
| Incident detection | • | • |
| Support | • | • |
| Support Plus (IERCC) | X | X |
| LiveTrack, Group LiveTrack | • | • |
| LiveTrack, Group LiveTrack without Smartphone | X | X |
| Home trainer control | X | • |
| Calendar | • | • |
| Weather | • | • |
| Find my phone function | • | • |
| Find my watch function | • | • |
| VIRB camera remote control | • | • |
| Sync watch settings | X | • |
Activity and health monitoring
The Fenix 7 has a new feature that performs a health check using a 2 minute resting test. The data taken into account is heart rate, heart rate variability, breathing rate, stress level and blood oxygen level. By regularly performing this test, a graph can be obtained showing the evolution of the data over time and better monitor the evolution of health parameters.
| Function | Fenix 6 | Fenix 7 |
|---|---|---|
| Number of steps | • | • |
| Step goals based on previous activities | • | • |
| Calories burned | • | • |
| Intensive minutes | • | • |
| Stages climbed | • | • |
| Detailed sleep analysis | • | • |
| Physical age | • | • |
| Body Battery Monitor | • | • |
| Daily effort monitoring (stress) | • | • |
| Breathing frequency 24/7 | • | • |
| Relaxation exercises | • | • |
| Health check-up | X | • |
Our opinion: Fenix 7 or Fenix 6? Which one to choose?
The Fenix 7, more complete than the Fenix 6, is clearly the best choice if you have the budget. Otherwise, it all depends on your objectives. The Fenix 6, ultra complete and less expensive, remains an excellent model, especially for sportsmen who do not use the cartography
Fenix 6: take advantage of the price reduction!
With the release of the Fenix 7, the Fenix 6 is now cheaper and a great buy, especially for sportsmen and women who are not interested in mapping. It has a comprehensive range of features and outstanding sports and outdoor functions. If you don't need mapping, the basic model will save you at least €100 on the Fenix 7 (which is sold with mapping on all models). It can be found today for around €450 (see our current best deals).
The Solar models of the Fenix 6 are not very interesting. They only increase the battery life of the watch by a small amount and only if you can expose it to direct sunlight. If battery life is important to you, the Fenix 7 is the best choice.
Fenix 7 for outdoor, mapping, GPS navigation, GPS accuracy and autonomy
We recommend the Fenix 7 for the mapping available on all models, even the Standard model. Its touch screen makes navigation much easier. The map can be moved with one finger and zoomed in with a double tap of the screen. If the touchscreen is an inconvenience for some sports, you can turn it off and use the buttons as on the Fenix 6.
The Up-ahead function is also a plus on this model, displaying essential data and distance to points of interest around you (pre-programmed with the route).
For sportsmen and women who are looking for performance, who train often or who compete, the Fenix 7 provides some useful functions such as the Stamina function. For trail runners, the VO2max calculation has been optimised for this sport. The Fenix 7 also takes into account walking and running times. These functions are not necessarily a sufficient criterion for choosing the Fenix 7, but they can tip the balance if you are hesitating between the old and the new model.
The Fenix 7 is also to be preferred for its autonomy, especially if you are doing very long outings. The solar charging system, which is much more efficient than that of the Fenix 6, should also be taken into account, depending on the range you are looking for.
Finally, the Fenix 7's GPS is more reliable than the Fenix 6's thanks to the multi-GNSS which allows you to receive different satellites at the same time. This is a plus for outings where the signal is poor. On the Sapphire model, the dual-frequency GPS also adds superior accuracy by correcting for reverberation errors. The gain will be most noticeable in sensitive environments such as cities, forests and mountains where there are many reflective surfaces.
Fenix 6S/7S, 6/7 or 6X/X7?
The choice between the different sizes of Fenix depends primarily on the size of your wrist but also on the autonomy you want.
It's best to choose a model that fits your wrist size: 6S or 7S for a thin wrist, 6 or 7 for a medium wrist, 6X or 7X for a large wrist. But if the battery life, the comfort of the screen (size and definition) or the few extra functions offered by the larger model are important to you, the Fenix 6X or 7X is the one to choose. It's best to try it out before you buy it, as this model is not only large but can be uncomfortable on a small wrist.
Fenix 7 Standard, Solar or Sapphire Solar?
The choice of model here depends above all on the quality of the materials, i.e. the robustness, but also on the quality of the GPS and the weight of the watch.
The standard model, the cheapest and without solar refill, offers a quality, highly resistant lens and a steel bezel. This model is sufficient for most sportsmen and offers the best value for money.
The Solar model has the advantage of offering solar charging but the interest is limited on the 7S model (adapted to small wrists). Solar becomes interesting on the 7 and especially 7X models.
The Sapphire Solar model is the best in the range and offers quality materials. Its titanium bezel is robust and ultra-light. Its sapphire crystal is ultra-resistant (scratches, shocks), therefore more suitable for sports where shocks are commonplace (mountain, trail, climbing, etc.) but slightly more matte than the Corning Gorilla that equips the other two models. If you want your watch to last over time, this is the model to choose. This model also has a dual-frequency GPS, which is more accurate in environments where there is a lot of reverberation. By choosing the 7X model, you are opting for a watch that combines the advantages of all the models: better autonomy, ultra-resistant materials, quality GPS, torch... but, on the other hand, an imposing size, a somewhat high weight and a maximum price!
If you do a lot of sport, are looking for the most robust watch possible for your activity or like quality and budget is not a concern, the Sapphire Solar model is what we recommend. Alternatively, the Standard model. The Solar model is a good compromise between the two if autonomy is an important criterion of choice.
Summary table of advantages and disadvantages (pros and cons)
| Fenix: | Advantages | Disadvantages |
|---|---|---|
| 6 | Lower price | No mapping, no MP3 player, no Wifi |
| 6 Pro | Price down, Mapping, MP3 player, Wifi | Less interesting price/performance ratio than the Fenix 7 Standard |
| 7S Standard | Value for money, weight, compactness | Glass a little less robust than sapphire |
| 7 Standard | Value for money, autonomy, weight | Glass a little less robust than sapphire |
| 7S Solar | Solar autonomy, weight, compactness | Glass a little less robust than sapphire, limited interest of Solar |
| 7 Solar | Solar autonomy | Glass a little less robust than sapphire |
| 7X Solar | Great autonomy, solar, flashlight | Glass a little less robust than sapphire, bulky |
| 7S Sapphire Solar | Solar autonomy, weight, compact, quality of materials (glass, bezel), more accurate dual frequency GPS | Price, glass a little more matte |
| 7 Sapphire Solar | Solar autonomy, quality of materials (glass, bezel), more precise dual frequency GPS | Price, slightly more matte glass |
| 7X Sapphire Solar | Great autonomy, solar, quality of materials (glass, bezel), flashlight, GPS dual frequency more accurate | Price, glass a little more matte, bulky |
Buy Fenix 7 and Fenix 6
You can find these two watches on the Internet (see below) and in specialist shops. Sport Passion makes you benefit, with its partners, from promotion codes.
Buy Garmin Fenix 6
Buy Garmin Fenix 7
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