I’ve loved my Series 5 AW since it launched, but I’m upgrading to Garmin Epix 2…

[jmgregory1]

I’ve owned my Series 5 Nike Sport Apple Watch since it launched a couple of years ago and it was a big reason for my getting healthy during the pandemic. But there are two things that are now making me look at upgrading to a Garmin Epix 2 Sapphire watch.

One is of course the battery life. I used to be able to get 30+ hours of wear time with my AW, but I’m now needing to recharge at the end of every day, so where I used to be able to wear my AW to sleep, now I can’t and it’s something I miss.

The other is less of a performance issue and more of an aesthetic issue - I’m sick of the rectangular watch shape. Previous to my AW purchase, I owned a Seiko Automatic watch, and wore it 24 hours a day for 15+ years. My youngest son is now wearing it and it has a decidedly more sporty look (with round case) flat sapphire lens (still in perfect condition) and stainless body that although scratched still looks fantastic. So I’m ready to jump back to a round watch, but not willing to give up the health tracking.

The talk about Apple releasing a more rugged AW is interesting, but I certainly don’t see them offering an AW with 6-16 days of battery life, like the Epix 2 can get. Sure, the Garmin doesn’t have cellular connectivity and can’t as seamlessly integrate with the iPhone, but I just can’t get excited about getting another AW without some significant jump in battery life.

 

[akidokraja]

I’ve owned my Series 5 Nike Sport Apple Watch since it launched a couple of years ago and it was a big reason for my getting healthy during the pandemic. But there are two things that are now making me look at upgrading to a Garmin Epix 2 Sapphire watch.

One is of course the battery life. I used to be able to get 30+ hours of wear time with my AW, but I’m now needing to recharge at the end of every day, so where I used to be able to wear my AW to sleep, now I can’t and it’s something I miss.

The other is less of a performance issue and more of an aesthetic issue - I’m sick of the rectangular watch shape. Previous to my AW purchase, I owned a Seiko Automatic watch, and wore it 24 hours a day for 15+ years. My youngest son is now wearing it and it has a decidedly more sporty look (with round case) flat sapphire lens (still in perfect condition) and stainless body that although scratched still looks fantastic. So I’m ready to jump back to a round watch, but not willing to give up the health tracking.

The talk about Apple releasing a more rugged AW is interesting, but I certainly don’t see them offering an AW with 6-16 days of battery life, like the Epix 2 can get. Sure, the Garmin doesn’t have cellular connectivity and can’t as seamlessly integrate with the iPhone, but I just can’t get excited about getting another AW without some significant jump in battery life.

Battery life is a big one. Hopefully they substantially increase it in S8 but I doubt it. How can Epix 2 last for 6 days with AOD and Apple Watch can last only 1 day? That’s six times more. Both have bright AMOLED displays and both are connected 24/7 to iPhone. The only difference is the processor speed but it can’t be that much of a difference. Actually it would make more sense for Apple Watch to be 6 times longer running as Apple controles both hardwares and can optimize the connection between them. As an experiment I tried turning off all notifications and sensors and not using gps. So, basically just looking at a simple Watch face with time and it still lasts for 24-30 hours only. I don’t get it.

 

[Monkswhiskers]

I can live with the AW battery but it is certainly falling behind with regard health features. The new Garmin 255 and 955 look very impressive. The only reason I won’t buy one of those is because of the screen, I’m used to oled, plus I think I would miss iOS integration etc.

 

[jmgregory1]

Battery life is a big one. Hopefully they substantially increase it in S8 but I doubt it. How can Epix 2 last for 6 days with AOD and Apple Watch can last only 1 day? That’s six times more. Both have bright AMOLED displays and both are connected 24/7 to iPhone. The only difference is the processor speed but it can’t be that much of a difference. Actually it would make more sense for Apple Watch to be 6 times longer running as Apple controles both hardwares and can optimize the connection between them. As an experiment I tried turning off all notifications and sensors and not using gps. So, basically just looking at a simple Watch face with time and it still lasts for 24-30 hours only. I don’t get it.

The only things I will miss are being able to text and make/take calls on my Watch, both things I do on a regular basis. But I lived for years without those features and look forward to the greater health and activity tracking the Garmin can do. I’d consider a Fenix 7, or one of the even more expensive Marq Athlete versions, but the reflective screen is such a downgrade that I just can’t do it, even with the impressive battery life.

 

[akidokraja]

The only things I will miss are being able to text and make/take calls on my Watch, both things I do on a regular basis. But I lived for years without those features and look forward to the greater health and activity tracking the Garmin can do. I’d consider a Fenix 7, or one of the even more expensive Marq Athlete versions, but the reflective screen is such a downgrade that I just can’t do it, even with the impressive battery life.

I have 7X and screen is a hit or miss. Outside in bright daylight it is fantastic. Inside the home or office in poor lighting it is horrible and completely unusable unless you turn the backlight on or twist it at weird angle so the light angle changes. But that battery!!! literally impossible to drain in in 2-3 weeks with daily GPS and training outside. Without GPS use it can go almost 4 weeks. All this while tracking heart rate every second (or every few seconds) and delivering notifications. And that flashlight is the most useful thing ever. Offline maps of entire world already on the watch out of the box. Also, the notifications are better in some way than on Apple Watch as it notifies you of WhatsApp phone calls and also notifies you when your watch is off your wrist. It also has better finding feature for iPhone as it shows the distance to the iPhone rather than just sound. Also, the touch screen is excellent and can be turned off to just use buttons.

Now for the bad:
Screen is horrible
No phone calls
No Cellular
No voice commands
No voice recording
No NFC HomeKey
Compass is not working properly

 

[jmgregory1]

I have 7X and screen is a hit or miss. Outside in bright daylight it is fantastic. Inside the home or office in poor lighting it is horrible and completely unusable unless you turn the backlight on or twist it at weird angle so the light angle changes. But that battery!!! literally impossible to drain in in 2-3 weeks with daily GPS and training outside. Without GPS use it can go almost 4 weeks. All this while tracking heart rate every second (or every few seconds) and delivering notifications. And that flashlight is the most useful thing ever. Offline maps of entire world already on the watch out of the box. Also, the notifications are better in some way than on Apple Watch as it notifies you of WhatsApp phone calls and also notifies you when your watch is off your wrist. It also has better finding feature for iPhone as it shows the distance to the iPhone rather than just sound. Also, the touch screen is excellent and can be turned off to just use buttons.

Now for the bad:
Screen is horrible
No phone calls
No Cellular
No voice commands
No voice recording
No NFC HomeKey
Compass is not working properly

I originally was considering a F7, but given my workouts are a combo of inside and out, not to mention my aging eyes, I just couldn’t imagine using a that type of reflective screen. Having lived with an automatic watch for so long, that literally never needed to be charged and required zero service, then going to the Apple Watch and having to charge every day, I’ll take getting 6-16 days per charge out of the Epix - it will be a huge upgrade from where I’m at now. The one thing I do wish the Fenix and Epix watches offered were full titanium bodies - but understand that with a device that will likely get retired within 5 years, there is little reason to pay for the full metal chassis.

 

[DaveOZ]

I have both a Garmin Marc and Apple Watch. I vacillate between the two regularly but keep coming back to the Apple Watch for its functionality and comfort. The Garmin is very uncomfortable to wear in bed.

I solved the charging problem with the Apple Watch by buying two. I have Series 5 40mm I wear at night and a new 45mm titanium I wear daily.

 

[The-Real-Deal82]

The battery on the S5 is absolutely appalling. I’ve said this on numerous threads but mine hasn’t even lasted past 8pm and shuts down. I’ve turned AOD off just to get it to last the day and bear in mind my watch is just over 2 years old. It should be better than it is and so glad I only bought the Nike model and didn’t waste my money on a stainless or titanium. I will upgrade to the S8 this year.

 

[jmgregory1]

I have both a Garmin Marc and Apple Watch. I vacillate between the two regularly but keep coming back to the Apple Watch for its functionality and comfort. The Garmin is very uncomfortable to wear in bed.

I solved the charging problem with the Apple Watch by buying two. I have Series 5 40mm I wear at night and a new 45mm titanium I wear daily.

The Marq watches are super thick, so I can see how they would be problematic for sleeping with them. The new Epix 2 is thinner and lighter, which should help with daily / nightly use.

What a brilliant solution you’ve figured out for not having to worry about battery life with the AW. I still think that being able to go for a week or two before even having to charge it once is the best solution.

 

[PatrickNSF]

I’ve been switching back and forth between a Garmin and Apple Watch since it’s release in 2015, generally preferring the Garmin for workouts and the AW for daily wear. But with Garmin‘s latest training/recovery metrics released last week that rely on 24/7 use, I see myself joining you and going back to Garmin full time.

The EPIX 2 with its AMOLED display is probably the closest thing to having the best of both worlds, though the new Forerunner 955 is likely more comfortable for 24/7 wear. Good luck!

 

[jmgregory1]

I’ve been switching back and forth between a Garmin and Apple Watch since it’s release in 2015, generally preferring the Garmin for workouts and the AW for daily wear. But with Garmin‘s latest training/recovery metrics released last week that rely on 24/7 use, I see myself joining you and going back to Garmin full time.

The EPIX 2 with its AMOLED display is probably the closest thing to having the best of both worlds, though the new Forerunner 955 is likely more comfortable for 24/7 wear. Good luck!

I get how the chunkier watch can be more problematic when wearing one 24/7, but I used to wear my Seiko automatic, a really heavy and thick all-stainless watch, all day and night, and liked the heft it offered. I’ve gotten used to the Apple Watch being significantly lighter, so going to the Epix 2 will be a good in between, or so I hope. Planning on ordering one this week and will update after I receive it.

 

[alphasports]

I've been using AW7 and Epix for awhile but recently sent the Epix back. Nothing wrong with it except for the price, which is more than an AW7 and a Fenix 6 Pro combined, which is not justifiable, I mean the OLED screen upgrade cost from a Fenix 7 (same watch otherwise) is something like $350, not far off a complete AW. I still have my trusty Fenix 5 so went back to that for now, it's 3 years old but it still crushes AW fitness metrics. It helps that I kind of like the old school transflective screen!

 

[akidokraja]

I get how the chunkier watch can be more problematic when wearing one 24/7, but I used to wear my Seiko automatic, a really heavy and thick all-stainless watch, all day and night, and liked the heft it offered. I’ve gotten used to the Apple Watch being significantly lighter, so going to the Epix 2 will be a good in between, or so I hope. Planning on ordering one this week and will update after I receive it.

Please keep us posted on how you like it.

 

[Dino F]

The battery on the S5 is absolutely appalling. I’ve said this on numerous threads but mine hasn’t even lasted past 8pm and shuts down. I’ve turned AOD off just to get it to last the day and bear in mind my watch is just over 2 years old. It should be better than it is and so glad I only bought the Nike model and didn’t waste my money on a stainless or titanium. I will upgrade to the S8 this year.

The battery on my S4 watch is still going strong (had mine since release) - my Battery Health is still at 94%!

I wear mine every day between 06:30 - 17:00 and again from 23:30 to 06:30 when I sleep and use it for half hour training in the mornings (its on the charger at other times).

 

[PatrickNSF]

I've been using AW7 and Epix for awhile but recently sent the Epix back. Nothing wrong with it except for the price, which is more than an AW7 and a Fenix 6 Pro combined, which is not justifiable, I mean the OLED screen upgrade cost from a Fenix 7 (same watch otherwise) is something like $350, not far off a complete AW. I still have my trusty Fenix 5 so went back to that for now, it's 3 years old but it still crushes AW fitness metrics. It helps that I kind of like the old school transflective screen!

The EPIX is a beautiful, but Garmin’s introduction of the feature-packed 955/255 last week shifts the value proposition. You can get all the features of the EPIX in the 955 for half the price, and about 90% of the features in the 255 for 1/3 the price – all in lighter and smaller packages arguably more suitable for running, cycling, etc.

 

[The-Real-Deal82]

The battery on my S4 watch is still going strong (had mine since release) - my Battery Health is still at 94%!

I wear mine every day between 06:30 - 17:00 and again from 23:30 to 06:30 when I sleep and use it for half hour training in the mornings (its on the charger at other times).

I think the AOD feature took its toll on the S5 battery. My wife has an S4 which is about a year older than mine and hers is on 90%. For the past few days I’ve turned that feature off and I now end the day with around 35% battery. Before that the watch had turned itself off around 20.00 to 20.30. Not a great experience as my S2 was lasting a full day at 3 years old!

I might contact Apple and see if they think 82% is acceptable on a 2 year old watch, they may replace it, who knows.

 

[Velin]

Sure, the Garmin doesn’t have cellular connectivity and can’t as seamlessly integrate with the iPhone

Those are two enormous drawbacks. The Apple Watch / iPhone seamless integration is stellar and best in the world, period. Not only do you get all the Apple Watch functions, but it also works as a superb stealth communication device when paired with iPhone. I'll never give that up, it's why I love the Apple Watch so much.

but I just can’t get excited about getting another AW without some significant jump in battery life.

First, put the Apple Watch in theater mode. Saves a lot of battery, can easily go all day (and much more) so long as you're not making and taking extended cell calls on the AW.

Battery complaints are overblown. No, you can't go on a weeklong camping trip with an Apple Watch without charging. But for everyday use? Just buy a second charger and throw it in your auto glovebox, or your office desk drawer. You can charge the AW to full (or close to it) on a typical commute home, or during a short break at work/school/anywhere.

 

[neil_cm17]

I also started out with an Apple Watch series 5 early in 2020 and it did help get me fit during the pandemic but I've since switched to a Garmin Epix 2. I typically run anywhere between 50-80km a week and there is no comparison between the training features you get with a Garmin compared to Apple. With the screen only set to come on with the wrist gesture on the Epix I can get around 12 days of battery life compared to around a day with the Apple Watch.

 

[jmgregory1]

I also started out with an Apple Watch series 5 early in 2020 and it did help get me fit during the pandemic but I've since switched to a Garmin Epix 2. I typically run anywhere between 50-80km a week and there is no comparison between the training features you get with a Garmin compared to Apple. With the screen only set to come on with the wrist gesture on the Epix I can get around 12 days of battery life compared to around a day with the Apple Watch.

Thanks for sharing Neil. I was wondering what I can expect from the Epix 2 for battery life when the AOD is turned off and using it for similar fitness tracking. It was interesting to see the additional fitness tracking that Apple is going to offer with the next WatchOS, since some of the data points are what Garmin (and others) have been providing on their more dedicated fitness watches already. But until Apple can drastically improve battery life, it’s going to be a no-go for me going back to the AW.

 

[alphasports]

The EPIX is a beautiful, but Garmin’s introduction of the feature-packed 955/255 last week shifts the value proposition. You can get all the features of the EPIX in the 955 for half the price, and about 90% of the features in the 255 for 1/3 the price – all in lighter and smaller packages arguably more suitable for running, cycling, etc.

Yes I just checked it out, impressive, will have to grab one when they come out.

 

[gsmornot]

I'm sticking with the Apple Watch but I agree with your comments. I would really like a round analog face like I used to wear with all the tech of an Apple Watch. I accept the shape since thats what it is but would prefer it be more like the watches I used to wear with more of the battery life or even some means of self winding/charging. If it collected health data I could see on my phone with a smaller display in the dial or something for notifications I would be covered. In all honestly, my eyes are aging so I dont see everything the watch offers as is, especially the small detail in the complications. I see the main number but if it has a smaller set of numbers for a range I dont see that without effort. Main feature I like, sounds silly, is the exact time. I really like knowing wherever I am, I have the correct time. Hope it all works out.

 

[jmgregory1]

The EPIX is a beautiful, but Garmin’s introduction of the feature-packed 955/255 last week shifts the value proposition. You can get all the features of the EPIX in the 955 for half the price, and about 90% of the features in the 255 for 1/3 the price – all in lighter and smaller packages arguably more suitable for running, cycling, etc.

The reason I ordered the Epix, even at the significantly higher price compared to the 955 or any Apple Watch (I currently wear a series 5 AW), was that I wanted the added weight and at least some metal (titanium). If Garmin would have updated their Marq line using the Epix internals and screen, I probably would have spent even more for an all titanium case. I’m excited to get the Epix tonight when I’m done with work and spend the weekend seeing how it performs.

 

[jmgregory1]

Initial impressions of the Epix 2, is that there is a fairly steep learning curve to get the thing set up the way I want. Definitely not as seamless as the Apple Watch. I do like the personalization that is possible with the watch faces - you just have access to so much data. Quality-wise, I love the more masculine look and although it is heavier than the AW, it’s still far lighter than my old Seiko Automatic (all stainless), so it’s nice that it doesn’t feel cheap (light).

 

[PatrickNSF]

although it is heavier than the AW

One thing I’ve always been surprised about with the titanium Fenix/EPIX watches is that they‘re the same weight as the stainless AWs (all with standard bands). I think the Fenix/EPIX appear heavier because the body is a bit bigger.

BTW these bands are great if you’re looking to reduce the weight and improve the fit for running or other cardio. And they’re easy to change out when you want to go back to a regular silicone band.

Abanen Hook and Loop Quick Dry Watch Band for Fenix 8 47mm / Fenix 6/Fenix 5/ Fenix 7/ epix Pro 47mm, 22mm Woven Nylon Ultralight Sport Wristband Strap for Garmin Instinct 2,Forerunner 955

Abanen Hook and Loop Quick Dry Watch Band for Fenix 8 47mm / Fenix 6/Fenix 5/ Fenix 7/ epix Pro 47mm, 22mm Woven Nylon Ultralight Sport Wristband Strap for Garmin Instinct 2,Forerunner 955

www.amazon.com

 

[jmgregory1]

One thing I’ve always been surprised about with the titanium Fenix/EPIX watches is that they‘re the same weight as the stainless AWs (all with standard bands). I think the Fenix/EPIX appear heavier because the body is a bit bigger.

BTW these bands are great if you’re looking to reduce the weight and improve the fit for running or other cardio. And they’re easy to change out when you want to go back to a regular silicone band.

Abanen Hook and Loop Quick Dry Watch Band for Fenix 8 47mm / Fenix 6/Fenix 5/ Fenix 7/ epix Pro 47mm, 22mm Woven Nylon Ultralight Sport Wristband Strap for Garmin Instinct 2,Forerunner 955

Abanen Hook and Loop Quick Dry Watch Band for Fenix 8 47mm / Fenix 6/Fenix 5/ Fenix 7/ epix Pro 47mm, 22mm Woven Nylon Ultralight Sport Wristband Strap for Garmin Instinct 2,Forerunner 955

www.amazon.com

Agreed that the larger body makes the Fenix/Epix watches seem heavier than they are. Thanks for the recommendation on the nylon band. I’ve seen those pop up and will order one now, given I had been using my AW nylon sport band and like how they breath better than the standard bands - especially useful during my heavy cardio workouts. I was a bit surprised by how flexible the standard Epix band was, as so many people comment that they’re stiffer, but I do want to have a couple of options to swap out.