Garmin Fenix 8: Premium Rugged Smartwatch is Now Smarter, More Expensive

AMOLED display arrives on the Garmin Fenix line

As with Garmin's recent releases, the Fenix 8 will receive the AMOLED display treatment, although the company will still offer a classic solar model albeit with an improved MIP display and charging.

Although the AMOLED model comes in 43 mm, 47 mm, and 51 mm sizes, the smallest model has a 1.3-inch display while the bigger two enjoy a 1.4-inch screen estate. Meanwhile, the MIP/solar variant ships in 47 mm and 51 mm sizes with the same 1.4-inch screen size.

There will be options from Gorilla Glass to Sapphire for glass protection and stainless steel/titanium for these models. A common feature across all models is a bright LED flashlight tucked at the chassis below the bottom screen that is also found in the Fenix 7 Pro (review).

Garmin also introduced more rugged touches in the Fenix 8, thanks to new leakproof buttons and sensor guards for the mics and barometer sensor. The enhanced build also enables dive functionality, including a planner for up to 40 meters depth, which is another first for the range.

Those gunning for solar-powered models will have to settle for a lower display resolution and bulkier build, although the trade-offs will net you a longer battery life of 29 and 48 days, respectively, in smartwatch mode. As a comparison, the AMOLED models offer between 10 to 29 days depending on the size and using the same mode.

Garmin Fenix 8 has a set of new 'smart' features

Regardless of the variant you select, all of them will benefit from the addition of a built-in microphone and speaker. This enables voice calls over Bluetooth and voice commands that work offline for basic commands like setting a timer or managing an exercise. Unfortunately, the personal assistant can only be triggered through the button and doesn't support wake-up commands compared to the Apple Watch Ultra 2 or Samsung Galaxy Watch Ultra.

There are other smart additions as well, such as compatibility with Garmin Messenger and a new voice notes feature. When it is used for fitness and tracking purposes, Garmin does not leave the Fenix 8 wanting several worthy changes. For instance, there are now advanced strength training plans, improved maps with topography for viewing contoured routes, and a built-in sensor to correct erroneous GPS tracks.

If you live in the USA, the biometric sensor of the Fenix 8 is FDA-certified for ECG use. On the other hand, what's available to a wider range of countries are the usual heart rate, HRV, blood oxygen, and sleep tracking, among others.

Garmin Enduro 3 brings even longer battery life

Garmin also released the Enduro 3, which shares some features from the Fenix 8 like Garmin Messenger, flashlight, strength training plans, better navigation, and ECG. However, it drops the AMOLED display and microphone in favor of a lighter build and longer battery life that is suitable for athletes competing in ultra-marathons and triathlons.

In addition, it takes advantage of the new solar charging capability, which should help it reach up to 90 days in smartwatch mode or 320 hours in GPS mode, or almost double the time of the previous Enduro model.

Garmin Fenix 8 price and Enduro 3 smartwatch prices

With all these upgrades, Garmin priced the Fenix 8 from $999, which is a huge $300 premium over the $700 Fenix 7. Likewise, the Enduro 3 retails for $899. Both smartwatches are available from Garmin's online store with more retailers carrying these models in the coming weeks.

Do you think the upgrades in the Garmin Fenix 8 is worth the price increase? Let us know your thoughts in the comments.