January 18th, 2022, was a massive day for Garmin smartwatches. They dropped two watches, one being the Fenix 7 and another being the Epix 2. Wait, the Epix? The Epix hasn’t been seen in nearly a decade! But with its major upgrades, let’s have a look at the Fenix 7 vs Epix 2.
We have seen some small upgrades from the Fenix 6 to the Fenix 7. We also can read about the Fenix 6 compared to the Epix 2, noting that there are just a few differences. So how does the Fenix 7 stack up?
Fenix 7 vs Epix 2 Price Differences
Understanding the price differences early on is essential in comparing the two watches. We need to know if the features are really worth the extra money. The Garmin Epix is still noticeably more expensive than the Fenix 7.
Compare prices from top merchants.
| Product | Supplier | |
| Garmin Epix 2 | Amazon | View offer |
| Garmin Epix 2 | eBay | View offer |
| Garmin Epix 2 | Garmin | View offer |
| Garmin Epix 2 | Best Buy | View offer |
Looking at some of the links from top merchants, we notice that the Epix 2 starts at $899. It can get even more expensive when you start to look at the Saphire options, which are slightly more scratch-resistant. These sell for $999.
| Product | Supplier | |
| Garmin Fenix 7 | Amazon | View offer |
| Garmin Fenix 7 | eBay | View offer |
| Garmin Fenix 7 | Garmin | View offer |
| Garmin Fenix 7 | Best Buy | View offer |
The Garmin Fenix 7, depending on which model you get, can be pretty comparable to the Epix 2. However, some model base prices end up saving you some money. It starts at $899, but if you keep upgrading, you can end up over $1000 making it the more expensive option!
Fenix 7 vs Epix 2 Design
Side by side, there is not much of a difference between the two watches to the naked eye. However, when the watches are turned on, it is noticeable that the AMOLED screen in the Epix is, in fact, a considerable separator. This touchscreen is immensely brighter, allowing Garmin athletes to see easily during the day.
It’s also important to note that the Fenix 7 has 16 different colors and design/functionality options that bump the price up depending on the model. Some of them are solar panel powered that extend battery life significantly!
Something the Fenix 7 has that the 6 did not is that it is now touchscreen ready like the Epix 2. Some users may think that the Epix 2 would have better touchscreen capabilities, but it’s equal on both watches with no lag.
Sizes
One notable design difference between the Fenix 7 and the Epix 2 is the option in watch sizes. The Fenix 7 offers three different sizes from 47mm, 42mm, and 41mm. The Epix 2, however, only offers 47mm.
Function and Capabilities
There is not much difference between the two watches when it comes to performance and software. Despite the Epix 2 having the AMOLED screen, they are both touchscreen compatible. Neither one has major reports of lagged software either.
Both the Fenix 7 and Epix 2 got the upgraded Elevate 4 Heart Rate Monitors sensors and the Sony multi-band GNSS chip. The GNSS chip has made major improvements to GPS accuracy and location services.
One difference that you can get with the Fenix 7 that you will not see available with the Epix is the solar-powered option that extends the battery life four days when in smart mode. The Fenix also lasts 57 hours on GPS only, whereas the Epix 2 lasts 42 (30 with always-on) because of the AMOLED screen.
Epix and Fenix 7 Metrics
- Both watches are capable of being 10 ATM underwater for surfing, diving, or any other watersport.
- Both have heart rate, barometric altimeter, compass, gyroscope, accelerometer, thermometer, SpO2.
- 16 GB of storage with upgrades to 32 GB in both models
- Can store up to 2000 songs each
Apps and Sports Features
We will keep saying this, but the watches are nearly identical, so you will also find that their apps and sports features are on a similar level as well. Something that both watches get compared to other Garmin models is Real-Time Stamina.
These metrics help coach you in real-time during workouts like running and biking. This monitors your energy levels and enables you to determine how hard to push yourself during the actual training.
Side by Side Comparison Garmin Fenix 7 vs the Epix 2:
| | Garmin Fenix 7 | Garmin Epix 2 |
| Screen Size | 47mm | 47mm |
| Changeable Strap | Yes | Yes |
| Colour Options | Black, Silver | Sapphire, White, Steel |
| Sensors | Blood Oxygen, Heart Rate, ABC & Temperature | Blood Oxygen, Heart Rate, ABC, & Temperature |
| Water Resistance | 100 Meters | 100 Meters |
| Operating System | Garmin WatchOS | Garmin WatchOS |
| Battery Life | 18 Days | 16 Days |
| Starting Price | $950 | $1,000 |
Which One to Choose
The biggest question concerning the Fenix 7 and the Epix 2 is if the extra money spent is worth the AMOLED screen? This is the one major difference between the watches and results in about a $200 difference. When it comes to features and design, there is not much else that is different except for your sizing options, which are not insignificant either.
From a sports performance perspective, the watches are identical with the same amount of sensors and metrics. However, with the Fenix, you get more style options than you do with Epix.
If an AMOLED screen doesn’t mean much to you, then the Fenix 7 is the clear winner.
Do you already have either of these devices? Let us know what you think of them in the comments.
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Last Updated on November 2, 2022
Brittany Collens is one of our top sports writers. She is also a professional tennis player which helps her authority on subjects such as health and fitness.
She has a degree in journalism and has previously written for well-established sports magazines in Massachusetts.
Brittany lives in Essex County, Massachusetts, United States.