Garmin Fenix 8: Models, Specs and Prices

Garmin is going to launch the Fenix 8 on August 27th. After initial listings in July, the first press images have surfaced online, along with mentions in official Garmin documents. Additionally, some online retailers are also preparing for the launch of the new premium GPS sports watch.

When Garmin unveils the Fenix 8 in a live stream on August 27, the company will present a variety of product versions. The Fenix 8 will be available in different sizes and colors, and there will be differences in the display as well. Additionally, it is likely that Garmin will also release the Fenix E and the Enduro 3.

Garmin combines Epix and Fenix

With the Fenix and Epix, Garmin offers two products that are almost identical except for the display. This has led to some challenges in the past:

• A Fenix sports watch was, for over a decade, the epitome of the best outdoor sports watch on the market. In the last two years, however, this was not necessarily the case, as the title was often claimed by the functionally equivalent Garmin Epix, which featured an AMOLED rather than an MIP display. Consequently, the two brands have each impacted the brand value and sales figures of the other.

• The large variety of Epix and Fenix models has caused confusion among potential customers.

As a result, Garmin seems to have considered presenting new models exclusively under the “Fenix” brand.

Fenix 8 – Available with either AMOLED or MIP display

In recent years, Garmin has demonstrated that AMOLED displays and sports or outdoor watches are not mutually exclusive but rather complement each other well. However, since it was initially unclear how well the new display technology would be accepted, particularly in the Fenix series, a new product was needed to avoid jeopardizing the success of the Fenix – thus, the Epix was reborn.

It is now clear which direction Garmin is moving: Almost every sports watch series currently offers self-illuminating AMOLED displays. Only the Fenix and Instinct series are yet to make the switch.

• AMOLED display

  For the first time, the new Fenix generation includes models with AMOLED displays. This essentially restores the Fenix’s status as the most premium model, as the Epix relinquishes its “title” and passes the technology on to the Fenix 8.

• Transflective MIP display

  Knowing that many customers still prefer transflective displays for their efficiency and excellent readability over high-resolution AMOLED displays, the Fenix 8 is also available with a transflective MIP display. However, Garmin is focusing on the AMOLED models, which will be available in sizes of 43 mm, 47 mm, and 51 mm.

  Models with the MIP display will be offered only in sizes of 47 mm and 51 mm.

Official press renders have been released in advance by winfuture.de. I am refraining from showing the images here until Garmin has officially released the product. The images can be viewed on the relevant websites, along with an emerged video.

Garmin Fenix 8 – New and noteworthy

The exact features and enhancements that the Fenix 8 will ultimately offer have not yet been fully disclosed to the public. Therefore, this list does not claim to be complete:

• New Sports Programs

  Garmin is expanding the functionality of the Fenix 8 with new features for sports and freediving. This is suggested not only by the first leaked press renders but also by the engraving on the back of the watch, which certifies resistance up to 40 meters for diving.

• Garmin Strength Coach

  With the Fenix 8, Garmin introduces the new Garmin Strength Coach. This new feature aims to enable targeted and training plan-oriented strength training. It is likely that this feature will also become available shortly thereafter on other high-end Garmin models.

• Voice Commands and Phone Calls

  Garmin has equipped the Fenix 8 with a small speaker and a microphone. These serve two purposes: first, they enable phone calls via the watch, but a paired smartphone must be nearby. The Fenix 8 does not have an LTE modem. Second, the Fenix 8 can process voice commands (even without a smartphone), allowing users to start activities by voice command, for example.

• Garmin Share

  Garmin Share was first introduced with the Edge 1050 bike computer and allows users to share planned workouts, routes, and positions directly with compatible devices. This feature was already included in the latest firmware update (Beta) for the Fenix 7 and similar models, and will therefore also be available on the Fenix 8.

• Elevate Gen 5

  While not entirely new, it’s worth mentioning the use of the fifth-generation Elevate sensor. The ECG function remains deactivated in the EU until the necessary approvals are obtained. However, the function is already activated in some regions, including the USA.

• Robust Design

  Additionally, the Fenix 8 is tested for heat, shock, and water resistance according to U.S. military standards. Unfortunately, it’s often unclear which specific tests the products have passed.

  On the side, there is extra protection for the sensors. The display glass is available in either Sapphire Glas or Gorilla Glass.

Models at a Glance

The following table shows the models that Garmin will release:

Garmin Fenix 8 – 43 mm

Garmin Fenix 8 – 47 mm

Garmin Fenix 8 – 51 mm

Garmin Fenix 8 – Model Comparison

Regarding battery life, Garmin has managed to improve solar efficiency by up to 50 percent with models featuring an MIP display.

Release Date of the Fenix 8

Initially, the release was expected to be in early September, partly due to the early listings on various online shops and the beginning of IFA 2024 in Berlin on September 6. Garmin has often used the trade show to present new products to the public.

It is now clear that Garmin will not be atttending IFA, and the official release will take place on August 27. Availability (at least of some of the models) is expected to coincide with the release as usual.

Some thoughts about the prices

The price structure is likely to be aligned with the existing models, as always. Except, this time the Fenix 8 aligns with the prices of the Epix Gen 2, while the Fenix E aligns with the prices of the Fenix 7.

Keep in mind that there may be changes prior to the release. The prices show the range starting with the more basic materials, i.e. silicon straps.

Compared to the current prices of the Fenix 7 and Fenix 7 Pro, the price difference with the Fenix 8 is quite significant. Despite the new features and the AMOLED display of the Fenix 8, the previous model will remain exceptionally attractive. The models are already being sold at large discounts.

Florian

I am the creative mastermind behind this page, with a passion for both sports and technology. By combining these interests, I write about wearables and gadgets that can enhance your sports experience. As a regular consumer, I offer insights from the perspective of a genuine user.

You can learn more about me and this site here.

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