Garmin launch new Fenix 8 and Enduro 3 and I spent the weekend testing them out

Garmin have announced the launch of the the new Fenix 8 and Enduro 3. Both come complete with updated features and in the case of the Fenix 8, a long-awaited AMOLED screen for the first time on the model.

I was lucky enough to get my hands on both over the weekend before the official launch, so can give an update on the new features, as well as my first impressions of both watches. They’ll go into a more thorough testing period next, so more expansive reviews to follow soon!

Fenix 8 gets AMOLED screen

The big news in this launch is the addition of the AMOLED screen to the Fenix range. It’s something that has been whispered about in sports circles for a while and which many will likely have been waiting for before upgrading.

I have to admit, the AMOLED screen became a must-have for me as soon as it launched on the Epix and then some Forerunner models. The brightness and legibility of the screen is unrivalled and after trying it, the ‘normal’ screens just feel a bit – well – dull.

My main sport is open-water swimming which makes a difference too, as underwater the brightness of these screens really shines through, making reading my stats at a glance really easy.

The same goes for cycling and running, especially if you’re out training in low light or poor weather conditions.

So, why the Fenix then? I have to admit, I’ve been though a few Garmin models myself over the years (and yes, sports writers do buy their own kit sometimes!).

In recent years I’ve had a Fenix 5, a Fenix 6 Solar and an Epix.

More recently I bought a Forerunner 965 though, which ticks all the boxes for me of having plenty of stats available, a large AMOLED screen and a lower-profile case which fits more easily under my wetsuit and just feels a bit less chunky for daily use.

The Fenix though is more durable and has many features which will make it appealing to triathletes, especially in this new model. So let’s get into the details.

Fenix 8 new features

Garmin sent me the 43mm Fenix 8 with AMOLED Sapphire screen. It’s a nice size for my small wrists, though the Quickfit strap was quite short. I would have liked a bit more length to make sure it is secure when worn over a wetsuit or neoprene swim gloves in the winter.

This is the smallest in the range, though it has had a 1mm size increase from the Fenix 7 which starts at 42mm. Also available will be a 47mm or 51mm version, while the solar charging option is available in 47mm or 51mm.

Like the existing range the Fenix is a chunky watch with a rugged design designed to withstand pretty much anything you can throw at it.

All models feature leakproof metal buttons, a new sensor guard to help protect essential sensors and have been tested to US military standards for thermal, shock and water resistance.

Battery life has always been a trade-off with the AMOLED screen though. Here, Garmin quote the 51mm AMOLED model offers up to 29 days of battery life in smartwatch mode while the 51mm solar model with an always-on display offers up to 48 days.

Of course those figures will be affected by the way you use it and how many hours you have all features running. After a weekend of use including swim and run sessions of up to an hour, my test unit was still showing 7 days battery life.

New voice-controlled features

Another key new feature on the Fenix 8 is the voice-activated features. A built-in speaker and microphone mean you can make and take phone calls from the watch when paired with a compatible smartphone. I wasn’t able to try this out yet though, as due to a launch embargo the watch couldn’t yet be paired with Garmin Connect as it didn’t yet feature as a sync option (that would rather have given the game away!).

Voice commands like ‘start a strength training activity’, ‘set a timer for 5 minutes’, ‘save waypoint’ and more can be activated right from the watch without a phone connection.

Talking into your wrist might feel a bit James Bond, but in a time where we’re used to controlling our phones (and homes!) using our voices, it feels like the right time for this addition. Handy too, for if you’re training and want to quickly adjust your routine.

Another communication addition is the Garmin Messenger app, which allows you to communicate with family and friends via two-way text messaging from the watch.

Other additions to Fenix 8

There’s plenty more to keep users of the new watch happy. These include a Built-in LED flashlight with variable intensities, a red light and strobe mode. Other features in brief include: advanced strength training with sports-specific workouts and training plans; dive capabilities and advanced mapping and navigation with customisable map layers and suggested activity routes.

Premium price point

Which brings us on to the final point and (undoubtedly) answering a question you’ve had in the back of your mind since starting to read this piece. How much? Well, Garmin are quoting a RRP starting from £869.99.

I have to say after a couple of days with this watch in-hand though, I can’t think of much else that could be added to a sports watch to make it better. Do I need it, though? I guess it comes down to how many of those premium and new features you are going to use.

For athletes looking for it all though, this seems like a pretty impressive package. I’m looking forward to getting some more thorough testing done, using all the features in the app as well.

Enduro 3 also launches

Alongside the Fenix 8 comes a new Enduro 3. Now, I like bigger watches, but I have to admit that the 51mm ultra-rugged Endura might not be for me, as it swamped my smaller wrists and felt pretty hefty on.

It’s aimed at athletes who take to the great outdoors for ultra-long adventures though and the key new feature here is the addition of solar-charging.

Garmin tells me this gives the Enduro 3 industry-leading solar battery life which provides more than double the solar power of the previous Enduro model, resulting in up to 320 hours of battery life in GPS mode or up to 90 days of battery life in smartwatch mode.

The Enduro 3 also benefits from SatIQ technology, which automatically toggles between GPS modes. This secures the superior positioning accuracy of multi-band GPS for up to 120 hours.

The Enduro 3 also takes some of the new premium features from the Fenix 8 including Garmin Messenger, preloaded workouts and strength training, Garmin Messenger, a built-in flashlight and enhanced navigation.

I focussed on the Fenix 8 in this initial first-try as the watch that is likely more attractive to a triathlon audience.

The Enduro 3 has its place though. That rugged exterior, long battery life and solar charging will make it attractive to ultra athletes (or those who like their watches chunky and are bad at remembering to charge them!).

Obviously there’s no battery-thirsty AMOLED screen here or new voice-activated features, but it’s a different beast on a different mission. A sturdy Velcro strap completes the £769.99 RRP package.

Initial conclusions

So there you have it. A whistle-stop tour of two new premium Garmins and a (very) quick first test from this writer.

I have to say, the Fenix 8 is a very nice watch with an insane amount of features. The headline has to be that AMOLED screen though, which will likely catch the eye of many triathletes. The battery life is still pretty decent, too.

It’s a nice-looking watch and the range of sizes make it accessible. It’s expensive though and in an ever-increasing range of Garmin models, that will likely mean buyers are those who really want it all in one package (and can afford it), or just want the newest model.

As for the Enduro 3, if you like to go long and have plenty of info to hand as you do it, there’s plenty to like here too.

Both these watches will undergo full testing now though as myself and others on the 220 test team spend more time trying out the new features and syncing to the connected features. Watch this space!

Looking for a sports watch? Check out our best buys for female athletes here. Plus, find the best watches for triathlon training here.