Garmin Epix Pro Gen 2 vs. Ticwatch Pro 5 Enduro: A Detailed Comparison

## Garmin Epix Pro Gen 2 vs. Ticwatch Pro 5 Enduro: An In-Depth Comparison

Choosing the right smartwatch can seem like a daunting task, especially with so many options available. Today, we’ll be doing an in-depth comparison of two popular contenders - the Garmin Epix Pro Gen 2 and the Ticwatch Pro 5 Enduro. Both models offer a wide range of features, but cater to different needs and preferences. Let’s take a look at their features.

Design and Build Quality

The design and build quality of the Garmin Epix Pro Generation 2 immediately impresses with its premium materials. The titanium bezel and sapphire crystal give it a rugged yet sophisticated look. The device feels incredibly durable and able to withstand anything. They still look like new, even after hitting a door frame or a rock. The silicone strap is comfortable for everyday use, but can be replaced with a fabric strap in sweaty weather.

The Ticwatch Pro 5 Enduro also has a durable sapphire crystal construction, but is more practical. The aluminum case is sturdy and feels good on the wrist. The included silicone strap is simple but good enough. Both watches are clearly designed to last a long time, but the Garmin looks more premium.

Display Technology

One of the standout features of the Garmin Epix Pro Generation 2 is the gorgeous AMOLED display. Colors are saturated and the screen is surprisingly clear, even in direct sunlight. This makes it easy to view maps and stats while running. The always-on display is a nice touch, although it does affect battery life a bit.

The Ticwatch Pro 5 Enduro takes a different approach with its unique dual display technology. It uses a low-power screen to display basic information such as time and health status, and a bright OLED screen for apps and notifications. It’s a smart way to save battery life, but dual-layer displays can sometimes be reflective and glaring. Garmin’s AMOLED display is visually stunning, and the Ticwatch’s dual display is a practical solution for extending battery life.

Features and Characteristics Under the Hood

Garmin Epix Pro Gen 2 provides comprehensive tracking for a wide range of sports and activities. It offers customizable metrics and data fields for personalized analysis. GPS tracking is accurate, and advanced navigation tools with topographic maps are a godsend for outdoor enthusiasts. However, the interface is complex and the learning curve can be steep for new users.

Powered by a Snapdragon W5+ Gen 1 chip, the Ticwatch Pro 5 Enduro delivers smooth performance. They provide comprehensive health tracking with continuous monitoring of heart rate, SpO2, stress and sleep. Easy navigation is provided by customizable side buttons and a rotating crown. However, the watch runs on an outdated version of Wear OS and lacks some new features and Google Assistant. Garmin excels at fitness tracking, but the Ticwatch offers a more balanced smartwatch experience.

Battery Life

Battery life is where these two watches really diverge. The Garmin Epix Pro Gen 2 offers impressive battery life, especially considering its AMOLED display. With the display on all the time and GPS use for several hours a day, the watch will last five to six days; the 51mm version can last nearly 11 days. Fast charging is also revolutionary.

The Ticwatch Pro 5 Enduro, on the other hand, is a battery life champion. It typically lasts 4-5 days in smartwatch mode, and up to 80 hours in low-power display mode. This is a great advantage for those who don’t like to charge their devices frequently. If battery life is your top priority, the Ticwatch is a winner.

Real-World Use and User Experience

Using Garmin Epics Pro Gen 2 is like having a personal trainer on your wrist. The data is detailed and the insights are valuable for serious athletes. However, for casual users who don’t utilize all the advanced features, it can be overkill. Another disadvantage is the lack of a voice assistant and speaker for calls.

The TicWatch Pro 5 Enduro is a more everyday partner. They’re perfect for recording workouts, managing notifications, and paying on the go. The rotating crown and customizable buttons make it easy to navigate, but step tracking is inconsistent and occasional software glitches can be frustrating. Garmin is a strong product for fitness enthusiasts, but the Ticwatch is a more versatile option for everyday use.

Pros and Cons of Garmin Epix Pro Gen 2

• Pluses:
  • Sturdy construction with premium materials like titanium and sapphire crystal.
  • Bright AMOLED display with excellent clarity and outdoor visibility.
  • Extensive tracking capabilities for a wide range of sports and activities.
  • Customizable metrics and data fields for personalized analysis.
  • Advanced navigation aids with accurate GPS tracking and topographic maps.
• Cons:
  • High price, especially for the Sapphire version.
  • Complex interface with steep learning curve for new users.
  • Not suitable for regular users who may not use all the advanced features.
  • No voice assistant or speaker for calls.
  • Step counter may overestimate the number of steps with hand gestures.

Pros and Cons of Ticwatch Pro 5 Enduro

• Benefits:
  • Excellent battery life, typically 4-5 days in smartwatch mode.
  • Durable construction with sapphire crystal glass and reinforced bezel.
  • Unique dual display technology with low power consumption and always-on screen.
  • Smooth performance with Snapdragon W5+ Gen 1 chip.
  • Customizable side buttons and rotating crown for easy navigation.
• Cons:
  • Older version of Wear OS 3.5, lacks new features and Google Assistant.
  • Instant step tracking, intermittent reboots or slow updates.
  • Heart rate tracking during strength training can be inaccurate.
  • Lack of wireless charging capability.

Final Thoughts

The Garmin Epix Pro Gen 2 and Ticwatch Pro 5 Enduro are both great smartwatches, but they solve different problems: The Garmin is for serious athletes who need detailed data and advanced navigation, while the Ticwatch Pro 5 Enduro is a device for outdoor enthusiasts. The Ticwatch, on the other hand, is a more versatile option for everyday use with a focus on battery life and smoothness. If you’re an athlete focused on data collection, choose Garmin; if you want a reliable smartwatch that can run for days on a single charge, Ticwatch is the one for you.