The Garmin Fenix 8 and Epix 2 Pro are two high-end multisport GPS watches from Garmin. Both offer a wide range of features for athletes and adventurers, but there are some key differences between the two models.
Design and Build
The Fenix 8 is available in a 47mm size with an AMOLED screen, while the Epix 2 Pro is also available in a 47mm size but with a Sapphire lens. The Fenix 8 has a slightly thinner design compared to the Epix 2 Pro. Both watches are built to withstand harsh conditions and are water-resistant up to 100 meters.
The Fenix 8 measures 47 x 47 x 13.8mm and weighs 80g in stainless steel or 73g in titanium. The Epix 2 Pro is slightly thicker and a bit lighter, measuring 47 x 47 x 14.5mm and weighing 70g (case only: 47g).
Features
The Fenix 8 features leak-proof inductive buttons, a built-in speaker/microphone with support for Bluetooth calling and offline voice assistant, a 1.4-inch screen with a resolution of 454 x 454 pixels, and a slightly longer battery life than the Epix 2 Pro. It also offers QZSS/BEIDOU connectivity, a depth sensor for scuba diving, Garmin Share, Workout Advantage, and a course and weather-specific race predictor.
The Epix 2 Pro does not have leak-proof inductive buttons or a built-in speaker/microphone, but it does have a Sapphire screen, which is more scratch-resistant than the AMOLED screen on the Fenix 8. It also offers a slightly longer battery life in some modes.
Battery Life
The battery life of both the Fenix 8 and Epix 2 Pro depends on how you use the watch. In smartwatch mode with always-on display, the Fenix 8 can last up to 16 days, while the Epix 2 Pro can last up to 16 days. In GPS mode, the Fenix 8 can last up to 47 hours, while the Epix 2 Pro can last up to 42 hours.
Price
The Fenix 8 is priced at 999.99 euros, while the Epix 2 Pro is slightly more affordable at 949.99 euros. This difference in price is likely due to the difference in screen technology and the new features of Finex 8.
Garmin Fenix 8 VS Epix Pro Gen 2 Specs Comparison
| Device | Garmin Fenix 8 – 47mm, AMOLED | Epix Pro (Gen 2) – Sapphire – 47mm |
|---|---|---|
| Case material | Fiber-reinforced polymer with metal rear cover | Fiber-reinforced polymer with metal rear cover |
| Dimension | 48.6 x 48.6 x 13.4 mm | 47 x 47 x 14.5 mm |
| Weight | Stainless steel: 80g (case only 59g) Titanium: 73g (case only 52g) |
70g (case only: 47g) |
| Leak-proof inductive buttons | Yes | NO |
| Waterproof | 100 meters | 100 meters |
| Display | 1.4-inch AMOLED Display | 1.3-inch AMOLED Display |
| Screen Resolution | 454 x 454 pixels | 416 x 416 pixels |
| Built-in speaker/microphone | Yes with support for bluetooth calling and offline voice assistant | NO |
| QZSS/BEIDOU connectivity | Yes | NO |
| Storage | 32GB | 32GB |
| Bluetooth Calling | Yes | NO |
| Depth sensor | Yes (up to 40m), support for scuba diving | NO |
| Garmin Share | Yes | NO |
| Multi-sports mode | Yes
|
Yes
|
| Workout Advantage (Training feature) | Yes | NO |
| App | Garmin App | Garmin App |
| Course and weather-specific race predictor | Yes | NO |
| Battery Life | Smartwatch: Up to 16 days (7 days always on) Watch mode with battery saving mode: Up to 23 days GPS only: Up to 47 hours (37 hours always on) All satellite systems: Up to 38 hours (30 hours always on) All satellite systems + multiband: Up to 35 hours (28 hours always on)* All satellite systems and music: Up to 10 hours Maximum battery life in GPS mode: Up to 81 hours GPS in expedition mode: Up to 17 days *In normal use with SatIQ technology |
Smartwatch: Up to 16 days (6 days always on) Watch mode with battery saving mode: Up to 21 days GPS only: Up to 42 hours (30 hours always on) All satellite systems: Up to 32 hours (24 hours always on) All satellite systems + multi-band: Up to 20 hours (15 hours always on) All satellite systems and music: Up to 10 hours Maximum battery life in GPS mode: Up to 75 hours GPS in expedition mode: up to 14 days |
| Price | 999.99 euros | 949.99 euros |
Conclusion
Both the Garmin Fenix 8 and Epix 2 Pro are excellent multisport GPS watches with a wide range of features. The Fenix 8 offers a slightly larger screen, built-in speaker/microphone, and leak-proof inductive buttons. The Epix 2 Pro is slightly more affordable and has a Sapphire screen. Ultimately, the best choice for you will depend on your specific needs and preferences.
