Garmin is expanding its Fenix series to include the Pro models with integrated satellite and LTE communication. The Fenix 8 Pro MicroLED is also the first smartwatch to utilise the new display technology and achieves a brightness of 4,500 nits. In contrast to the Quatix models, Garmin's Fenix series is not designed specifically for boaters, but as a multisport smartwatch.
However, with the inReach technology for satellite and LTE connections now integrated for the first time, the new models are also of interest to water sports enthusiasts. The watch can communicate without a smartphone and make an interactive SOS emergency call in an emergency - even without mobile phone coverage. The MicroLED display in particular, with 400,000 individual LEDs, sets new standards in terms of readability, especially in direct sunlight.
Communication without a smartphone
Depending on availability, the Fenix 8 Pro uses either a satellite or LTE connection for communication. However, a subscription for around €10 per month is required for this function. Depending on the network quality, the smartwatch enables the transmission of text or voice messages as well as phone calls. When transmitting voice messages, a transcription is transmitted first so that communication can take place quickly even with poor network coverage. The audio file only follows once the text has been transmitted.
This procedure ensures that at least the content of the message reaches the recipient, even if the audio quality is impaired by a poor connection. For water sports enthusiasts who are often in remote areas, this technology offers a considerable increase in safety.
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New Garmin comes with innovative display technology
The absolute highlight of the new Garmin smartwatch is undoubtedly the MicroLED display in the top model. With 400,000 individual LEDs and an impressive brightness of 4,500 nits, the Fenix 8 Pro MicroLED sets new standards in the smartwatch industry. By comparison, conventional smartwatches usually only achieve a fraction of this brightness. The decisive advantage for water sports enthusiasts is obvious - the display remains perfectly readable even in direct sunlight on the water. The 1.4-inch display with a resolution of 454 × 454 pixels also offers sufficient space for displaying complex data. Touch operation works reliably even with wet fingers, which is a particularly important criterion for skippers and other water sports enthusiasts.
Extensive functions for athletes
The Fenix 8 models are waterproof and include all the familiar Garmin performance, navigation, health and fitness functions. These include endurance value, Hill Score, Garmin Coach, pre-installed TopoActive maps, dynamic RoundTrip routing, "ECG" measurement, sleep coach, Garmin Pay, security and tracking functions as well as music storage. The extensive navigation functions with pre-installed TopoActive maps are particularly valuable for water sports enthusiasts.
The dynamic RoundTrip Routing also enables automatic route planning with a return to the starting point - ideal for paddlers or SUP riders who want to plan a tour. However, the Fenix series does not offer special functions such as a start computer or autopilot control - the Quatix models from Garmin remain the better choice for dedicated boaters.
Model variants of the Garmin smartwatch and battery life
The top model with MicroLED display costs just under 2,000 euros and is only available with a 51 millimetre case diameter. The version with an Amoled display is significantly cheaper and more compact, and is available in both 47 and 51 millimetre diameters for around 1,200 euros. A key advantage of the Amoled technology is the lower power consumption, which means that the battery of the cheaper model enables up to 15 days of operation with an always-on display.
In smartwatch mode without a permanent display, up to 27 days are even possible. The brighter MicroLED version of the smartwatch lasts just four days with an always-on display, but up to 10 days are realistic in smartwatch mode. The Amoled model is therefore the better choice for longer trips without a charging option.
Technical data
- Fenix 8 Pro Amoled: Available in 47 mm and 51 mm
- Fenix 8 Pro MicroLED: Available in 51 mm
Display
- Amoled models: touch display with sapphire glass
- MicroLED model: 1.4 inch (454 × 454 pixels), 4,500 nits, 400,000 LEDs
Battery life
- Fenix 8 Pro Amoled: Up to 27 days in smartwatch mode, 15 days with always-on display
- Fenix 8 Pro MicroLED: Up to 10 days in smartwatch mode, 4 days with always-on display
Communication
- Integrated inReach technology for satellite and LTE connection
- Text messages, voice calls, voice messages, LiveTrack, weather forecasts
- Interactive SOS emergency call with Garmin Response
Prices and availability
- Fenix 8 Pro Amoled: From 1,200 euros
- Fenix 8 Pro MicroLED: 2000 Euro
