Garmin Fenix 2 watch review

The Garmin Fenix 2 is a wristwatch that caters to both fitness enthusiasts and professionals. This device combines functionality with a sleek design and impressive battery life. Here is an in-depth evaluation of the Garmin Fenix 2.

Appearance

• PC synchronization cable
• Power adapter
• Attachments for different types of outlets
• Velcro strap
• Screwdrivers for strap replacement
• Russian instruction manual
• HRM heart rate monitor (available in a variant without it)

The device’s body is black, including the display. The display is monochrome with a resolution of 70*70 and white text. There are five buttons on the case. In appearance, it resembles a sports watch, similar to those made by Casio and other companies. However, the watch has a sleek and not overly bulky design, which is definitely advantageous. This means that it can be worn with a variety of outfits, not just sportswear.

The strap is constructed from durable plastic. It has the ability to be substituted with a strap that is crafted from thick fabric with Velcro fastening. To carry out the substitution procedure, you will need to utilize the provided screwdriver. The device is incredibly water-resistant, enabling you to submerge it to a depth of up to 50 meters.

Attention! The charging process is performed utilizing a proprietary cord, which is included in the package and connected to the right side of the device.

Stuffing

Many manufacturers choose not to provide detailed technical specifications for their smartwatches, as this information is not as crucial as it is for smartphones. With smartwatches, they either work properly or they don’t. Here is what is known about the Garmin Fenix 2 Performer (an updated version that is not different from the model without the Performer prefix):

• Display: 1.2 inches
• Resolution: 70 * 70 pixels
• Built-in memory: 32 MB
• Protection class: IP68
• Case and strap material: metal, plastic
• Size: 49 * 49 * 17 mm
• Weight (without strap): 85 grams
• Navigation features: GPS, compass, altimeter, barometer
• Indication features: SMS, calls, alarm clock, applications
• OS support: Android, iOS

Functions and features

In the realm of modern smartwatches, the process of linking a smartphone and a wearable device is accomplished through the utilization of Bluetooth technology. In the instance of the Garmin Phoenix 2, this connection serves three essential purposes:

• Effortlessly exporting the user’s activity data to their trusty smartphone;
• Facilitating the ability to share personal achievements with friends or post them on social media platforms like Facebook and Twitter;
• Affording the convenience of a smartwatch experience, whereby notifications, text messages, phone calls, and alarm functionalities are all visible from the wearable device.

Of particular significance is the fact that the smartwatch screen is designed to effectively present complete message texts, thus enhancing the user’s reading experience. However, for the third function to operate seamlessly, consistent synchronization with the connected smartphone is required.

Using the GPS sensor, the smartwatch is able to determine the owner’s location and calculate the sunrise and sunset times. This feature is especially useful for fishermen and hunters who need to know the duration of daylight hours. The built-in barometer provides notifications about changes in weather conditions, while the location sensor allows users to plan and follow their chosen route.

Please note that the previous version of this device included an altimeter, barometer, thermometer, and compass. The new version also includes an accelerometer.

The smartwatch can function as a standalone fitness device without requiring a smartphone connection. However, if you would like to sync it with your phone, there are two options available – Basecamp and Connect. Basecamp caters to hikers, while Connect is designed for athletes. Both applications are compatible with iOS, but only Connect can be installed on Android.

How long the battery lasts depends on the type of usage. If you plan to use the device with both bluetooth and GPS enabled, the battery will last approximately 14-18 hours. However, if you only need to use GPS, the battery can last up to 10 days. Using the device solely as a watch without any other features can extend the battery life to a month without needing to recharge. The battery capacity of this device is 500 mA*h, and it takes approximately 2 hours to fully charge.

Sports modes

The device is primarily intended for athletes, offering useful modes for runners, cyclists, swimmers, and other sports enthusiasts. It can accurately track distance covered while skiing, monitor downhill performance, and assist with navigation. In running mode, it measures speed, pace, distance, elevation changes, and heart rate. To begin a workout, simply press the red "start" button and select the desired mode, such as "run" or "trail run". Each mode, including running, can be customized to display the user’s preferred data.

Important information! An intriguing feature of this device is its ability to calculate oxygen consumption.

Bike

When operating in this mode, the device records the length traveled, shows the route taken, velocity, and heart rate of the user during the race. To enhance the usability of the wristwatch, it is possible to purchase a dedicated handlebar mount as an optional accessory, which typically costs around 10 dollars.

Hint: Alternatively, you may consider purchasing this attachment from another manufacturer, potentially at a lower price.

Swimming

Here the device offers two different modes – open water and pool. In the first mode, the distance is determined using a GPS sensor, while in the second mode, the user manually sets the distance and the device starts recording data as soon as the swimmer starts swimming from the pool edge. The smartwatch is capable of automatically identifying the swimming style. Additionally, once the distance is set, the device can calculate the number of strokes required to cover the distance.

Important! Furthermore, there are various modes available for cross-country, cross-country skiing, snowboarding, alpine skiing, mountaineering, hiking, and skydiving.

Advantages and disadvantages

According to general findings on the device, the model has proven to be highly functional and can be utilized in the aforementioned three states. Even without synchronization enabled and lacking GPS, the device offers a plethora of useful features. Many reviews and user feedback confirm that the advantages far outweigh the disadvantages.

1. Impressive battery life.
2. Extensive range of modes for various sports.
3. Robust vibration motor that is noticeable even during intense workouts.
4. Accurate measurement of body temperature.
5. Night mode automatically activates after sunset, and the red backlighting on the display adds a striking touch.
6. The watch automatically adjusts to different time zones when connected to GPS.
7. Ability to assign favorite apps to buttons.
8. The OS is continuously supported, with frequent updates that quickly fix bugs and add new features.
9. It has ANT+ capability, allowing for the connection of external devices like bicycle pedal sensors.

To be fair, let’s also mention the downsides of the gadget.

1. At times, the watch can be slow to perform certain functions. For example, it takes 7-8 seconds to switch from the main menu to applications, and it takes about 1.5 minutes to view the activity log after a workout – roughly the same amount of time it takes to load the data.
2. It does not have Russian firmware. The device’s menu is entirely in English, which isn’t a major issue since the words are generally well-known and even those without extensive knowledge of the language can still navigate through them.
3. To create advanced training load intervals, you will need to visit the Garmin Connect website. This feature is not available in the app or on the watch itself.
4. Occasionally, the watch may experience freezing issues, but these are likely to be resolved as the software is updated.
5. Bluetooth and ANT+ cannot be used simultaneously, which may be inconvenient at times, but it is not a significant problem.

The Garmin Fenix 2 watch is considered one of the top multi-sport devices in the market. With each operating system update, it continues to enhance its features and functionality, making it a preferable choice for many. Currently, the price of the device ranges from 42 to 46 thousand rubles.