Marathonian and demanding hiker, I chose the Fenix 7 Pro for its high precision GPS and its legendary autonomy. Used daily for 3 months (running training, alpine trails and mountain navigation).
See the Fenix 7 Pro and opinions on Amazon
First contact and installation
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Perceived quality : Reinforced polymer housing and anti-scratch sapphire glass. Robust design (military standards MIL-STD-810) but heavy (82 g)
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Handling : Configuration via Garmin Connect Intuitive, but 2-3 days delay to master the touch/physical buttons.
Real test vs promises
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GPS : Surgical precision in multi-frequencies (maximum deviation 5 m in canyon vs 30 m on Forerunner 245). Satellite locking.
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Battery : 22 days in watch mode (confirmed), 6 p.m. in multi-band GPS + music. Unusual solarization under cloud climate.
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Key features ::
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Integrated LED lamp (night security).
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Endurance and elevation performance score (implacable analysis of weaknesses).
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Preloaded topo cards + route deviation alerts in real time.
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Disappointment ::
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Sometimes illegible MIP screen without backlight (shaded forest).
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Improved heart sensor but less reactive than a chest belt over short intervals.
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Prohibitive price (€ 899) for underused functions (surfing, water skiing).
Key points for the buyer
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For whom : Outdoor sport (trail, mountaineering, triathlon) requiring extreme reliability.
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For whom not : Occasional or urban runners (Forerunner 265 sufficient).
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Alternative : Apple Watch Ultra 2 (better interface, less autonomy) or Garmin Enduro 2 (XXL battery).
Cash verdict
Strengths ::
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Unparalleled autonomy in a hostile environment.
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Most precise GPS on the market (multi-band + Glonass/Galileo).
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Undeamnated sustainability (shocks, temperatures -20 ° C at 60 ° C).
Weak points ::
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Less reactive screen than the Epix Amoled.
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Justifiable prices only for ultra-enduring.
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Poorly useful solarization in northern Europe.
Recommended If you accumulate> 3 p.m./week of demanding outdoor activities. Sustainable investment (5 years+), but oversized for leisure use.