Garmin Fenix 8: Features, Price, and Everything You Need to Know
Garmin unveiled its latest addition to the Fenix family, the Garmin Fenix 8, on 27 August 2024. Here at Smartwatch Straps, we’re diving into all the details you need to know about this cutting-edge multisport GPS smartwatch series, perfect for UK sports enthusiasts.
About the Fenix Series
With so many smartwatches on the market, you might wonder who the Garmin Fenix series is designed for. These premium multisport GPS smartwatches are tailored for serious athletes and outdoor adventurers, including runners, cyclists, climbers, and more. Renowned for their rugged design, advanced sensors, long battery life, precise navigation, and smart features, Fenix watches are a top choice for those pushing their limits.
Fenix 8 Variants
The Garmin Fenix 8 comes in two distinct variants to suit different preferences:
- Fenix 8 AMOLED
- Fenix 8 Solar
| Fenix 8 AMOLED | Fenix 8 Solar | |
|---|---|---|
| Case Size & Display | 43mm (1.2″) 47mm (1.3″) 51mm (1.4″) |
47mm (1.3″) 51mm (1.4″) |
| Display Type | AMOLED | Transflective Memory-in-Pixel |
| Lens Type | Corning Gorilla® Glass or Sapphire Crystal | Power Sapphire™ |
| Battery Life | 43mm: up to 10 days 47mm: up to 16 days 51mm: up to 29 days |
47mm: up to 21 days 51mm: up to 30 days |
Battery Life
The Fenix 8 series boasts exceptional battery life, allowing you to tackle longer adventures without worry. The AMOLED models offer up to 10 days (43mm), 16 days (47mm), or 29 days (51mm) in smartwatch mode. The Solar models extend this further, with the 47mm lasting up to 21 days and the 51mm up to 30 days, thanks to improved solar charging capabilities.
Sports Features
The Fenix 8 introduces advanced strength training programs tailored to specific sports. Cyclists can focus on power or endurance, golfers on coordination, and mountain bikers on stability. The watch also supports diving up to 40 meters with leakproof buttons and the Oceanic+ app, making it a versatile choice for water-based activities.
Navigation
Navigation is a standout feature, with enhanced built-in maps, a refined search function, and dynamic round-trip routing. This allows the Fenix 8 to generate routes based on your desired distance and adjust if you stray off course. At 40% of a pre-set distance, the watch can guide you back to your starting point, perfect for runners and cyclists.
Microphone and Speaker
Equipped with a built-in microphone and speaker, the Fenix 8 provides spoken feedback during workouts and supports hands-free calling via Bluetooth. It also offers offline voice commands for starting activities, adjusting settings, or setting timers, plus compatibility with digital assistants like Siri or Google Assistant when connected to your phone.
Budget-Friendly Alternative: Garmin Fenix E
For those seeking a more affordable option, Garmin introduces the Fenix E, available in a 47mm size with a 1.3″ AMOLED display. It uses a Gen 4 heart rate sensor and lacks a microphone, speaker, diving capabilities, leakproof buttons, and multi-band GPS. However, it still offers built-in maps, Garmin Pay, offline music, and the updated Fenix 8 interface.
Fenix 8 vs. Fenix 7
Both the Fenix 7 and Fenix 8 are stellar smartwatches, but the Fenix 8 brings notable upgrades. It features advanced health monitoring with a new-generation heart rate sensor, enhanced sleep and stress tracking, and more sports modes. The AMOLED display is brighter and sharper, and new features like a built-in flashlight and improved navigation make it a compelling upgrade.
Pricing
Here’s an overview of the recommended retail prices for the Fenix 8 series and Fenix E:
| Model | Starting Price |
|---|---|
| Fenix 8 AMOLED 43mm | £859 |
| Fenix 8 AMOLED 47mm | £859 |
| Fenix 8 AMOLED 51mm | £1,029 |
| Fenix 8 Solar 47mm | £945 |
| Fenix 8 Solar 51mm | £1,029 |
| Fenix E | £689 |
Starting at £689
Accessories for Your Fenix 8
Already own a Garmin Fenix 8 or Fenix E? Elevate your experience with our range of stylish and durable straps. Whether you have the 43mm, 47mm, or 51mm model, we’ve got you covered with free UK delivery. Explore our collections:
Frequently Asked Questions
Can You Make Calls with the Garmin Fenix 8?
Yes! The Fenix 8 features a built-in microphone and speaker, allowing you to make and receive calls from your wrist when connected to your smartphone via Bluetooth.
Does the Garmin Fenix 8 Support WhatsApp?
While you can’t install a full WhatsApp app, the Fenix 8 lets you receive notifications, read messages, and reply to WhatsApp messages when paired with your smartphone.
How Much Does the Fenix 8 Cost?
Prices vary by model: the Fenix 8 AMOLED (43mm and 47mm) starts at £859, the 51mm AMOLED and Solar models at £1,029, and the 47mm Solar at £945. The Fenix E starts at £689.
Conclusion
The Garmin Fenix 8 series combines advanced features and rugged design, making it a top choice for athletes and outdoor enthusiasts. With enhanced strength training programs, superior navigation, and diving capabilities, it’s a step above its predecessors. While the price is premium, the improved battery life and new features justify the investment. For a more affordable option, the Fenix E delivers core functionality at a lower cost.
Ready to personalise your Fenix 8? Browse our Garmin chargers and straps to enhance your smartwatch experience.
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