Multisport GPS watchmakers Garmin have just released a bunch of new models in their Fenix collection.
The new Fenix 6 series introduces larger displays, innovative performance features, longer battery life and Garmin’s first ever solar watch.
Watches in this new range includes the Fenix 6X Pro Solar, the Fenix 6 Sapphire (which has a sapphire lens), the Fenix 6X, standard Fenix 6 and the slighter Fenix 6S
Fenix 6X Pro Solar
As the name suggests, this is the one with the built-in solar charging. It uses a material that Garmin have called Power Glass; a transparent solar charging lens that uses the sun’s energy to extend the watch’s battery life. The overall battery life in the smartwatch mode, they say, is 21 days plus an additional 3 days when utilising the solar charging capabilities.
Apart from aesthetics, and the price (more on that below), the Pro Solar has all the same features found throughout the rest of the Fenix series…
Garmin Fenix Series Features
The series introduces a new first-of-its kind PacePro feature which keeps a runner’s pacing strategy on track with elevation-adjusted guidance as they run a course. Runners can create plans directly from the watch or ahead of time on Garmin Connect or Garmin Connect Mobile, and while running they can see their target split pace, the actual split pace and time ahead of or behind their target.
As for features for outdoor adventures, the watches in the Fenix series have access to TopoActive Europe maps and give access to GPS, GLONASS and Galileo for precise navigation TopoActive Europe maps. They can all record your cycle, hike or run (among other sports), show your heart rate, and they’ll survive any immersion, say, if you’re swimming, surfing or kayaking. There’s also a built in barometer and altimeter.
The Fenix 6 and Fenix 6X are constructed for a more comfortable fit on the wrist than previous Garmin models. The display size has also been increased to 1.3” and 1.4” respectively, which is 17 and 36% bigger than previous Fenix models The Fenix 6S, which is a watch for smaller wrists, retains the 1.2” display of the Fenix 5S.
Across the Fenix 6 range, there’s also a new Power Manager feature which allows the user to view and control various settings and sensors that impact the battery life. Like on a smartphone, users can adjust their battery-saving modes and disable certain things that might be draining charge.
In terms of functions and features for normal day-to-day use, all of the watches can receive calls, texts and emails, store music, synch with bluetooth headphones and make contactless payments.
Garmin Fenix 5 Series Prices
These things don’t come cheap. The most basic Garmin Fenix 6 comes with a suggested retail price of £529.99 and then the prices go higher for the other models, with the top level Fenix 6 Pro Solar set to cost around £1000.
For smartwatch coverage from us, there’s our Casio Pro Trek review, our recent Suunto 9 Baro review and also our take on the previous Garmin Fenix 5s.
