Trail runner and regular hiker, I opted for the Amazfit T-Rex 2 for its Robust/Price ratio (180 €). Used intensively for 6 months, 4 to 5 sessions/week (race, swimming, cycling).
See the Amazfit T-Rex 2 and the opinions on Amazon
First contact and installation
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Perceived quality : Sober military case, bright amoled screen (1000 nits). Rigid bracelet at first, but resists shocks.
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Handling : Basic configuration in 10 minutes via the ZEPP app. Four physical buttons + reactive tactile, even gloved.
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Learning curve : 2-3 outings to master the menus. Absence of integrated tutorials.
Real test vs promises
Performance ::
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GPS : Precise dual-band in the forest (deviation).
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Cardio : Correct in endurance, underestimates the peaks in split (gap up to 10 bpm vs thoracic belt).
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Autonomy : 24 days in mixed (GPS 1h/day), 50h in shipping mode. Real outfit.
Key features ::
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Importable GPX map for hiking.
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150 Sport modes, including skiing and surfing. 80% reliable automatic detection (missed 2 in 10 runs).
Disappointment ::
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No Ant+/Bluetooth connection to external sensors (e.g. Powermeter).
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Sync Strava eaten for swimming (no pace/distance).
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Sometimes slow altimeter in steep drop.
Sustainability : Intact box after falls and salt water. Screen without stripes (Gorilla Glass).
Key points for the buyer
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For whom : Occasional outdoor sportsmen, tight budgets, need for autonomy.
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For whom not : Pro cyclists (external sensors), free water swimmers (GPS), data analysts (basic app).
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Value for money : Unbeatable under 200 € vs Garmin Instinct 2 (300 €) or Coros Apex (250 €).
Cash verdict
???? 3 assets ::
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Folie autonomy (3 weeks without load).
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Reliable dual-band GPS out of urban.
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Absolute robustness (MIL-STD-810H standard).
???? 3 faults ::
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Perfectible heart sensors.
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App Zepp less intuitive than Garmin Connect.
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Massive design (66.5g).
Recommended ? Yes, for trail runners and hikers who want strong without breaking the bank. Avoid for technical sports (triathlon, cycling) or allergic to thick watches.
