Garmin Epix Gen 2 review: The ultimate fitness watch

Garmin Epix Gen 2 review: The ultimate fitness watch

MSRP $900.00

“The Garmin Epix series 2 provides detailed, in-depth health metrics for dedicated athletes and beginners alike.”

Pros

• Up to 16 days of battery life
• Exact heart rate tracking
• Detailed health metrics
• Built-in altimeter and Compass
• GreCompassal features
• Extensive data customization

Cons

• High price tag
• Some metrics feel inaccurate
• No ability to respond to messages through the watch

There’s value in knowing information about your health. If you’re trying to get in shape, knowing your current resting heart rate can tell you a lot about your current level of cardiovascular health. Your heart rate also tells you a lot about how effective your workout is for burning fat, building endurance, and more. Your Pulse Ox gives an estimation of the oxygen saturation level in your blood, while your Respiration gives you an average of how much you breathe from minute to minute.

The Garmin Epix 2nd Gen tells me all this information and more. All I have to do is wear it. It’s one of the most innovative fitness watches I’ve ever worn. With a few tweaks and improvements, it could be the single best smartwatch I’ve ever used. The Garmin Epix is designed for serious athletes, but it also carries a significant price.

More health information than I can shake a stick at

The primary purpose of the Garmin Epix is to tell you everything about your health and fitness. It provides a ridiculous amount of information — in fact, more information than I can use. For instance, it includes tracking information about diving and even golf — two sports I’ve never participated in.

All of the information is available on the Garmin Epix itself (called “Glances”), but you can see a more detailed breakdown on your phone through the app. The “My Day Card” shows you information as I detailed before, but you can add or remove data you aren’t interested in seeing. All of the options include:

• Training Status: The Training Status metric uses your VO2 Max estimate, your heat and altitude performance acclimation, and your training load to gauge how your training progresses.
• Heart Rate: This measures your resting heart rate throughout the day, as well as the highest rate you reached.
• Body Battery: The Body Battery takes a lot of factors like your stress level, how well you slept the night before, and your exercise throughout the day and determines how much “charge” you have left.
• Stress: The Garmin Epix uses heart rate variability to gauge an estimate of your stress levels throughout the day.
• The Intensity Minutes metric measures how much time you spend in moderate to intense exercise.
• Steps: This one is self-explanatory — it’s a pedometer.
• Floors: This measures how many flights of stairs you’ve climbed.
• Calories: You can connect the Garmin Epix to MyFitnessPal to track calories in and out.
• Sleep: The Sleep measurement breaks down how much time you spent in each phase of sleep, as well as how much time you spent asleep in total.
• Sleep Score: The Sleep Score takes the Sleep measurement and gives you a grade out of 100, along with tips on how to improve your sleep.
• Pulse Ox: The Pulse Ox setting measures the oxygen level in your blood.
• Respiration: The Respiration measurement tracks your average breaths per minute throughout the day.
• Weight: This is self-explanatory. You can manually add your weight or connect to specific external devices and be recorded automatically.
• Hydration: Your Hydrate measurement is the amount of water you’ve had throughout the day. You will need to add this manually.

All of that information is beginning to make this review feel more like a guide, but it’s necessary to explain some of the quibbles I have with the device. The heart rate tracker is spot-on; I measured it against several other trackers and found it to be within one beat every time.

The Body Battery is an exciting feature. You aren’t going to drop when your score is low (and in fact, I don’t think it can hit zero — mine only went to five at the lowest.) You will feel tired with a lower-body battery score, though.

Most of the metrics are accurate, or at least within reason. I’ve used the Garmin Epix for over two weeks now and have had few complaints. The only two that stand out are the Stress and Sleep measurements.

The Stress measurement doesn’t feel accurate in the slightest. It’s based on your heart rate, so while exercising or exerting yourself, your stress level might be high. The watch told me I was under high stress when resting on the couch one night watching TV. Considering I was half-asleep at the time, I have to disagree respectfully.

The Sleep measurement is accurate but not a great reflection of your actual energy levels. Lower amounts of sleep should translate to lower energy levels, but several nights showed less than five hours of sleep where I woke up and felt great. I noticed that the sleep measurement stops if you are awake for too long at any time, so it might register less sleep than I had.

More detailed information for those that want it

All of the above metrics are available at a glance, but the Garmin Epix provides more detailed health information for those that want it. For example, it provides users with a Fitness Age estimate that compares your actual age to your body’s fitness level.

I’m 32, but it says my fitness age is 30. By increasing the amount of exercise I get each week, the watch says I could reduce that to the fitness level of a 26-year-old.

You can measure your Lactate Threshold and HRV Stress levels through the use of the Epix, paired with a Garmin chest heart rate monitor. This isn’t included with the Epix and requires a separate purchase. Garmin offers multiple heart rate monitors, some designed to be used by swimmers, while others are for cyclists and runners.

Again, this isn’t vital for the regular day-to-day operation of the Epix — but serious athletes will appreciate the feature.

A crazy number of training options

The Garmin Epix is a jack-of-all-trades kind of smartwatch. Cyclists can measure their functional threshold power, VO2 Max, and more. Golfers can download golf courses to access a map quickly and even track their scores through the Epix. You can download another app called Garmin Dive to log your dives, manage your gear, check out maps, and more.

The pace Pacing Strategies can help you build up your stamina and technique at a safe, steady pace if you’re training for a run. Regardless of what kind of athlete you are, there’s something in the Garmin app for you.

If you are a distance runner and want to stay safe while on a long trail, you can set up LiveTrack, a feature that lets friends and family know your location and status while on the trail. The Garmin Epix has incidence detection and will alert your emergency contact if something happens. It even sends your GPS location so that someone can find you. If you have an Android phone (the feature isn’t available for iOS users), you can use GroupTrack to see where all of your connections are in real-time.

Even if you want a way to keep yourself fit without going all out, Weekly, Monthly, and Yearly challenges give you a community to compete against. Some of the challenges include walking one mile per day for 365 days, cycling 250 kilometres in a single month, and more.

A lot of customization, but not a lot of variety

There’s a lot you can do with your Garmin Epix from an aesthetic perspective. You can customize the Face by downloading a secondary app called ConnectIQ from the App Store or the Google Play Store.

ConnectIQ lets you browse dozens of different faces for Garmin smartwatches. Because it’s the catch-all app, not every Face is compatible with every watch — but I rarely encountered any that wouldn’t work with the Epix. The biggest problem is that many of these faces are custom-made and will ask you to donate through PayPal; if you don’t, the Face will constantly change and pester you for money.

There are a lot of entirely free options, though. I settled on one that shows a tremendous amount of information, including the current weather, sunrise and sunset times, heart rate, stair count, step count, and more. The only issue I’ve encountered with it is that the temperature often isn’t accurate.

ConnectIQ also lets you create custom watch faces through its Face It tab. If you’re the type that prefers to make something entirely your own, it’s worth checking out. I didn’t have much luck, but then again, my artistic talents stopped at Paint By Number books.

There are a lot of faces to choose from, but I found many of them to be so similar that they made little difference. After all, the Garmin Epix is a training tool — even its physical design is sporty. It won’t pair well with a blazer and cufflinks, so don’t worry about finding a formal dinner-worthy watch face.

The ConnectIQ app isn’t just for finding watch faces, though. You can connect various music apps straight to your Epix and download music to listen to offline. You can connect Bluetooth headphones to your Epix and listen to music without taking your phone with you.

Other training apps are available through ConnectIQ, but not all are created equally. Many are community-made, and these apps can be hit or miss. Pay close attention to the rating score for each app. Like the Hydration Tracking app from Garmin, some only scored 1.5 stars out of 5, while the Wikiloc Trails app had a 4 out of 5 from well over 1,000 users.

The Epix has some epic features.

The Epix isn’t the first Garmin smartwatch I’ve tested, but it’s by far the best. It has a couple of features I haven’t seen before; for example, it has a built-in altimeter and Compass. ItCompassa feature I expected to use much, but I’ve found myself pulling up the Compass on Compassan one occasion.

The built-in stopwatch is also tremendously helpful, although I’ll admit I’ve used it for cooking more than training. The Epix is easy to navigate and has become a part of my daily wear that I feel strange when it isn’t on my wrist.

The Garmin Epix can get up to 16 days of battery life in smartwatch mode, but I found it closer to five to six with the always-on screen. Charging takes only a few hours. I find I rarely go without wearing the Epix now. It’s waterproof, so you can shower with it (although I still can’t bring myself to shower with a smartwatch after years of keeping water far from electronics.)

You can link your Garmin account to Facebook, Google, and your phone’s contacts to find other Garmin users you know. You can share data and compete against them to add a more social aspect to your training — something that’s particularly nice to have in a time when many people are still avoiding the gym.

If none of your friends uses Garmin, you can search for public groups to join. Some are location-based, but others are generalized groups that anyone can participate in. I found several for tennis and baseball. There are even groups for ultimate frisbee.

Our take

The Garmin Epix is a genuinely incredible smart fitness watch with only minor flaws. Just having it on my wrist has kept me more aware of my activity levels throughout the day, and watching the numbers improve (along with the friendly community) keeps me motivated to continue working out.

Is there a better alternative?

The Garmin Epix combines the best features of other Garmin models into the ultimate fitness watch. It’s hard to compete against, but there are a few options if you’re willing to sacrifice features. The Garmin Venu 2 is a more-affordable $400 but lacks many of the advanced tools the Epix has.

The Apple Watch Series 7 has many fitness features but is more smartwatch than a fitness tracker. If you want to answer messages or make calls through your smartwatch, you’ll need something like the Series 7 — the Epix doesn’t have that functionality.

How long will it last?

The Garmin Epix is built like a tank. It’s comfortable but has a bit of weight to it. The screen is scratch-resistant and capable of withstanding a beating, and it’s waterproof up to 10 meters. I expect it to last for years to come, but if something happens, Garmin offers a one-year limited warranty.

Should you buy it?

Yes — if you’re a serious athlete in need of an outstanding fitness watch capable of providing a slew of information. If you’re just ing out on your fitness journey, consider a more affordable alternative. The $900 price point is steep for a fitness tracker that doesn’t have full smartwatch features.

Introducing the Garmin Epix Gen 2

Garmin Epix is a high-end product that offers a wide range of features. It is the best GPS watch on the market! Garmin released its first-generation Epix model in October 2015 to replace its predecessor, Garmin 910XT. The Epix includes updated features from its predecessor, including increased battery life and 8 GB of internal storage. It is better than its predecessor in every way!

A Closer Look: Garmin Epix Gen 2

The new and improved version of the Epix GPS watch, the second generation, includes several features that make it an excellent choice for adventure and outdoors enthusiasts. If you’re looking to invest in a top-of-the-line GPS watch, the Garmin Epix Gen 2 is worth considering!

Features of the Garmin Epix Gen 2

If you’re in the market for a top-of-the-line GPS watch, here are some features that make the Garmin Epix stand out from other watches.

Enhanced Mapping Capabilities

What’s new in the Epix Gen 2?

Enhanced mapping capabilities: the Epix Gen 2 is equipped with 8GB of internal storage and an upgraded CPU, allowing it to access topographic maps for use without a smartphone. It also includes paperless geocaching (for those who like discovering new landmarks), and 1:100,000 scale shaded relief (terrain contours).

The Epix Gen 2 offers a longer battery life than the first generation, lasting up to 50 hours with its UltraTrac mode enabled. This GPS watch has wireless capabilities for continuous data uploading via Garmin Connect to your computer or smartphone if you require more power.

ABC sensors: it now includes ABC sensors to enhance your outdoor navigation and tracking experience. Its altimeter and barometer can also be used to predict weather changes, track your ascent/descent and measure air pressure at different altitudes.

It has a more comprehensive operating temperature range than its predecessor: from -20°C to +60°C (-4°F to +140°F). This makes it perfect for skiing, winter sports and other cold-weather activities.

It includes a high-sensitivity GPS receiver for fast positioning anywhere in the world. It also provides a barometric altimeter, 3-axis compass, gyroscope and accelerometer to measure your speed, pace, and distance travelled.

The main features of the Epix Gen 2 are

Full-colour display with a resolution of 200 x 265 pixels Battery life of 16 hours in GPS mode and up to 20 days in smartwatch mode.

Ability to add maps from both internal storage and external microSD cards.

Ability to create up to 50 waypoints Navigate via course or follow tracks.

Track your performance on the go, including the number of steps and calories, burned Compass, bad compass and altimeter to aid you in your choice of outdoor activity Watch functions:

Time and Date Sunrise and sunset alert Vibration Alarm Stopwatch (chronograph) Countdown timer Temperature readings.

The smartwatch feature is only available on the Garmin Epix Gen 2.0 watch with a colour display. The original Garmin Epix watch has a black and white screen.

If you’re interested in buying the Garmin Epix Gen 2, please visit Amazon to check for current deals and prices:

Amazon: Find Garmin Epix deals on Amazon .com (enter “Garmin Epix” into their search bar) Amazon.de (if you live in Europe)

Title: Garmin Epix Gen 2: The Best GPS Watch for Adventure and Outdoors

How one can use the Epix Gen 2 for outdoor activities

The Garmin Epix Gen 2 is the perfect GPS watch for anyone who loves spending time outdoors. It offers a wide range of features, including enhanced mapping capabilities, 8GB of internal storage and ABC sensors (altimeter, barometer and Compass). Compass now has a longer battery life than its predecessor so that you can stay out on the trails or in the wilderness for even longer.

The Epix Gen 2 is a top-notch GPS watch for outdoor enthusiasts.

If you’re looking for a reliable GPS watch, the Garmin Epix Gen 2 is going to be of interest. This new version offers a wide range of features to enhance your outdoor experience, including improved mapping capabilities and longer battery life. Plus, with its ABC sensors (altimeter, barometer and Compass). Compass navigate your way around the trails or backcountry with ease.

The Epix Gen 2 has an 8GB internal storage capacity

One Garmin Epix Gen 2 that stands out is its 8GB internal storage. If you take many photos when you’re out and about, it’s a good idea to store them on your GPS watch. Using the Garmin Epix Gen 2’s 8GB internal storage capacity, you can do that.

The Epix Gen 2 has longer battery life than its predecessor

When you’re enjoying nature, there is nothing worse than worrying about your GPS watch running low on battery. This is why the Garmin Epix Gen 2 has a longer battery life than its predecessor so that you can head out for an even longer adventure.

The pros and cons of the Garmin Epix Gen 2

The Garmin Epix Gen 2 is a top-of-the-line GPS watch that offers a wide range of features, including enhanced mapping capabilities, 8GB of internal storage and longer battery life. It is also equipped with ABC sensors (altimeter, barometer and Compass) foCompassor navigation. If you’re in the market for a high-quality GPS watch, the Epix Gen 2 is worth considering!

The Epix Gen 2 is a significant improvement from its predecessor, and it brings new features that were not available before. The watch face is redesigned to be more user-friendly, with a streamlined design and larger fonts for ease of use while running or cycling (see photo). It also has a longer battery life than the previous version. On average, the battery will last for 20 hours when using the power-optimized mode, which is ideal for casual users. The high-sensitivity GPS receiver has also improved, and it can now track your location to within one meter (3 feet). It is also equipped with 8GB of internal memory for saving waypoints, routes and tracks.

Who should buy the Garmin Epix Gen 2

The Garmin Epix Gen 2 is the new and improved version of the Epix GPS watch. It offers a broader range of features than its predecessor, including enhanced mapping capabilities, 8GB of internal storage and longer battery life. It is also equipped with ABC sensors (altimeter, barometer and Compass) foCompassor navigation. If you’re in the market for a top-of-the-line GPS watch, the Garmin Epix Gen 2 is worth considering!

Where to buy the Garmin Epix Gen 2?

Amazon is the best place to buy the new Garmin Epix Gen 2. You can get it for a discounted price and have it shipped directly to your door.

(If you don’t see it there, try looking here ).

Refurbished models are also available from third-party sellers on Amazon at significantly lower prices. However, you need to be more careful when purchasing from third-party sellers because there is a 60-day return policy and no warranty associated with these products.

What should I look for when buying the Garmin Epix Gen 2?

When you’re looking for an Epix, here’s what you should look for:

1) Make sure it has all of the new and improved features of the Gen 2 Epix, including ABC sensors (altimeter, barometer and Compass) whCompass be used for outdoor navigation. Make sure it’s also equipped with 8GB of internal storage.

2) The best price you can get it for on Amazon or third-party sellers.

What is the difference between Garmin Epix Gen 1 and Garmin Epix Gen 2?

The new Garmin Epix Gen 2 is the upgraded second generation of the original Garmin Epix, released in 2013. The main differences between the two models are as follows:

1) The display resolution on the Gen 2 has been improved to 200 x 265 pixels compared to 160 x 240 on Gen 1. Both displays are full-colour and sunlight readable.

2) The battery life has been increased from 16 to 25 hours, so it lasts twice as long as the original version without adding bulk to the watch’s size or weight.

3) It is now equipped with ABC sensors (altimeter, barometer and Compass) foCompassor navigation. These sensors are used in conjunction with the GPS to give you accurate bearings and relevant weather data at all times.

4) The Gen 2 has 8GB of internal storage, which allows it to display additional topographic maps that are more detailed than those found in the original version. It also allows you to load more routes and waypoints.

5) The Gen 2 weighs just over 3 ounces with a wrist strap, making it lighter than the original version.

6) The display on the Gen 2 is slightly larger at 1.4″ x 1.4″, compared to the original’s 1.2″ x 0.9″.

7) The Gen 2 has a series of buttons with an additional touch screen for ease of use. The original version relies on a touch screen which can be annoying since you have to keep tapping the screen to make it work.

8) The design is slightly more refined and modern-looking than its predecessor, although both models are very similar in aesthetics.

Differences between the Garmin Epix Gen 2 and the Fenix 3 HR:

The Garmin Epix is very similar to the Fenix 3 HR, which has all the same features as its predecessor except for ABC sensors. The only significant difference between these two models is that the Fenix 3 HR is water-resistant up to 100 meters, whereas the Epix is only water-resistant up to 50 meters.

The Garmin Epix costs around $100 less than the Fenix 3 HR. For this reason, you might want to consider buying an Epix if you don’t plan on using it in water very often or at all. The Fenix 3 HR also has a slightly larger 1.6″ x 1.6″ display than the Epix’s 1.4″ x 1.4″.

Conclusion:

When you’re looking for a new GPS watch, the Garmin Epix Gen 2 is worth considering! It has all the features you could want in a high-end GPS watch and is packed with 8GB of internal memory to store all of your favourite routes and waypoints. The only downside is that the ABC sensors are sold separately for around $100, but they’re worth buying once you can afford them! It’s also important to note that the Fenix 3 HR has some additional features that you might want to consider.

The Garmin Epix Gen 2 is the new and improved version of the popular Epix GPS watch. It offers a broader range of features than its predecessor, including enhanced mapping capabilities, 8GB of internal storage and longer battery life. It is also equipped with ABC sensors (altimeter, barometer and Compass) foCompassor navigation. If you’re in the market for a top-of-the-line GPS watch, the Garmin Epix Gen 2 is worth considering!