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Are you looking for an outdoor multisport watch that will never let you go, even at the end of the world? There Garmin Instinct Crossover Solar promises solar autonomy, military robustness and total synchronization with Garmin Connect. But does she really hold her promises?
After months of testing in the field, here is my opinion without filter, supporting comparisons, and advice that you will not read anywhere else.
See the Garmin Instinct Crossover Solar and the opinions on Amazon
The most relevant format: A long format, comparison, oriented field experience.
If you hesitate between several models, I strongly advise you to consult this detailed test of the Garmin Instinct 2 to better understand the concrete differences between each generation.
| Criteria | Crossover Solar Instinct | Instinct 2 Solar | Fenix 7 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Robustness | Exceptional | Very good | Very good |
| GPS autonomy | 31 h (solar) | 48 h (Solar) | 57 h (Solar) |
| Autonomy shows | 54 J (Solar) | 65 J (Solar) | 18 J (Solar) |
| Solar recharge | Effective, but limited | Very effective | Excellent |
| Sports functions | Very complete | Complete | Ultra-complete |
| Advanced navigation | Good | Good | Color cartography |
| Price | High, but justified | More accessible | Very high |
My opinion sliced::
Crossover Solar surpasses most outdoor watches in robustness and simplicity. It targets users who want an “indestructible” watch, easy to read, with XXL autonomy, but without the functions of color cartography or music of the Fenix 7. For the pure adventure, this is the reference. For extreme versatility or advanced sports analysis, the Fenix 7 keeps the advantage.
And if you want to anticipate the next developments or compare with the future generation, keep an eye on the reviews on the Garmin Instinct 3 as soon as they are published.
In winter raid, real autonomy: 3 weeks without recharge, GPS used 1 hour/day, all without ever fear of breakage. In trail, the readability of the needles remains perfect, even in the rain or snow.
Small downside: the interface requires learning, especially to exploit sports profiles and health widgets.
Is solar autonomy really unlimited?
No, but it makes it possible to repel the recharge very far, especially in summer or under the tropics.
Does the watch synchronize easily with Garmin Connect?
Yes, synchronization is automatic and reliable, with all the data accessible on the app.
Is it suitable for small wrists?
Please note, the case is massive (45 mm), it can hinder on fine wrists.
Does solar recharge work in winter?
Less effective, but autonomy remains above average.
If your priority is robustness, autonomy and simplicity, Garmin Instinct Crossover Solaris the ultimate outdoor watch. It overlaps competition over lifespan, resistance and reliability. For ultra-adventurers, field pros, or those who want to forget the charger, it is a safe investment.
For sports geeks or advanced cartography fans, the Fenix 7 stays in front. But for all the others, the Crossover Solar is a choice of reason and passion.
Expertise
Outdoor specialist, equipment tester for 15 years, I have accompanied expeditions to Himalayas, Amazon and Lapland. My opinion is without compromise, based on real experience and technical analysis.
Up to you::
Do you still hesitate? Test the Crossover Solar on your next adventure. And share your return to Garmin Connect – the Outdoor community is just waiting for your exploits!
