Quick Overview
A detailed comparison between the Garmin fenix 7X Sapphire Solar and the Garmin fēnix 7X Pro Sapphire Solar, highlighting their features, pros, and cons.
## Garmin fenix 7X Sapphire Solar vs Garmin fēnix 7X Pro Sapphire Solar: Detailed Comparison
Choosing between the Garmin fenix 7X Sapphire Solar vs Garmin fēnix 7X Pro Sapphire Solar can be a tough decision. Both devices are high-end smartwatches designed for outdoor enthusiasts and athletes, but there are a few important differences between them. Let’s take a look at a detailed comparison to help you decide which is right for you.
Feature Overview
Both smartwatches boast impressive features like solar charging, multi-band GPS, and comprehensive health tracking. However, the fēnix 7X Pro model stands out for its advanced features. The fenix 7X Sapphire Solar is just as good, with a full feature set for serious athletes.
Garmin fenix 7X Sapphire Solar
Garmin fenix 7X Sapphire Solar is a powerful smartwatch designed for those who demand the best in outdoor tracking and performance. Their rugged construction and rich functionality make them a reliable partner for any adventure.
Pros
- Very Long Battery Life: Solar charging feature greatly increases battery life and allows for longer charging intervals. A big plus for multi-day traveling.
- Built-in flashlight: A flashlight with multiple modes, including SOS, is incredibly useful. I use it all the time when walking the dog at night or trying to find something in a dark room. The strobe mode and cadence run mode are also great for safety.
- Multi-band GPS: provides highly accurate tracking in a variety of conditions. I didn’t notice much difference compared to my previous Fenix, but accuracy definitely improved in challenging environments with tall buildings and dense forests.
- Comprehensive mapping: The topo maps pre-installed in the Sapphire Solar edition are very useful for navigation. I recently went on a trail that was not well marked, and thanks to the maps on the watch, I was able to quickly figure out where I needed to go.
- Touchscreen interface: Improves map navigation and overall usability. Although I was skeptical of the touchscreen at first, it’s actually very handy for navigating through maps and quickly scrolling through widgets. However, during workouts, especially when my hands are sweaty or I’m wearing gloves, I still rely on the buttons.
Cons
- Solar Charging Ring: The solar charging ring around the bezel can be visually distracting to some users. It doesn’t bother me, but it may not work for everyone.
- Battery drain when using multi-band GPS: While accurate, multi-band GPS can significantly reduce battery life. For most runs and trips, a standard GPS is sufficient to save battery life.
- Touchscreen Activation: The touchscreen can be accidentally activated in the water or during outdoor activities and should be turned off. This has happened a few times and can be a little frustrating.
- Large size: The large 51mm size can be bulky for some users, especially those with small wrists. It works fine for me, but may be too big for some people.
Garmin fēnix 7X Pro Sapphire Solar
Garmin fēnix 7X Pro Sapphire Solar takes everything the fenix 7X has and improves on it. It’s made for those who demand absolute perfection in terms of functionality and durability. The titanium bezel and sapphire crystal give it a premium look, and the advanced features make it a top-notch smartwatch.
Pros
- Outstanding battery life: Up to one month of solar power is amazing. We are impressed that the watch lasts that long even with regular use.
- The titanium bezel and sapphire crystal make it amazingly durable. It’s been bumped several times and still looks like new.
- Advanced multi-band GPS: Provides highly accurate location tracking. Multi-band GPS connects to multiple satellite systems and provides accurate position data. Use for hiking, swimming, weightlifting and everyday life.
- Comprehensive health and fitness tracking: provides detailed metrics and data. Endurance tracking feature provides insight into energy levels during a workout. Heart rate sensor shows accurate results in most cases.
- Built-in flashlight: The dimmable flashlight and SOS mode are incredibly useful. I use it to find my keys, walk the dog at night, and for general tasks.
- Offline maps and music storage: I can work without my phone. I like the ability to store music.
Cons:
- Pricey: Even more expensive than the fenix 7X, so out of reach for many users. Had to save up a lot of money to buy it.
- Touchscreen responsiveness: Touchscreen can be slow and unresponsive compared to other smartwatches. I prefer to use the buttons most of the time.
- User Interface: The user interface is clunky, with unintuitive menus and hidden options. I feel like it could have been better organized.
- Limited smart features: Compared to the Apple Watch, some smart features are missing, such as a keyboard for text replies. I miss the ability to quickly reply to messages.
- The GPS drains the battery when used heavily. I noticed this during long hikes.
- Tracking of weightlifting activities is basic and does not provide a detailed count of calories burned. Tracking calories during resistance training seems a bit of a misnomer.
I’ve used both watches a lot and both have their advantages. The fenix 7X Sapphire Solar is a great all-around watch, perfect for outdoor activities. The fēnix 7X Pro Sapphire Solar is another step forward with improved durability and battery life. Another step forward, but at a higher price point. The flashlight in both watches is innovative and I use it all the time. The multi-band GPS is accurate, but there is no significant difference in accuracy compared to my previous Fenix. The real-time endurance function is interesting, but I’m still not sure how useful it will be for training. I like looking at the data, but I don’t always check it during a workout. I rather use it as a post-workout analysis tool.
Conclusion
The Garmin fenix 7X Sapphire Solar and the Garmin fēnix 7X Pro Sapphire Solar are both great smartwatches. The choice depends on your budget and specific needs. If you want a high-end watch with optimal battery life and durability, the fēnix 7X Pro is a great choice. If you’re looking for a more affordable option with great features, the fenix 7X is a great choice. Both watches are built for adventure and will not disappoint.
