Garmin Instinct 2 vs Fenix 7: A Very Detailed Comparison

Summary

In this comprehensive review, the speaker compares the Garmin Instinct 2 and Garmin Phoenix series, focusing on key differences like battery life, navigation, and price. The Instinct 2 shines with excellent battery longevity and outdoor features, ideal for fitness enthusiasts, but lacks detailed maps and advanced navigation found in the Phoenix models. The Phoenix 6, while more expensive, offers more sophisticated capabilities such as multi-band GPS, advanced waypoint tracking, and better customization options. The speaker emphasizes the value of the Phoenix 6 for serious trekkers while noting the Instinct 2's affordability for those who don't need these extra features.

Takeaways

• 😀 The Garmin Instinct 2 offers strong performance with its features but lacks some advanced capabilities like mapping and multi-band GPS compared to the Phoenix series.
• 😀 The Garmin Instinct 2 supports custom watch faces, apps, and data fields via Connect IQ, but not all apps may work seamlessly due to potential compatibility issues.
• 😀 Garmin's Instinct 2 is great for those needing a reliable, battery-efficient outdoor watch, especially for activities that require long-lasting power.
• 😀 While the Instinct 2 is great for general sport tracking, it lacks some advanced features like stamina tracking and multi-band GPS, which are available on the Phoenix series.
• 😀 There is a delay in app compatibility when using Garmin Connect IQ on the Instinct 2, with some apps becoming available a few weeks or months after launch.
• 😀 The Phoenix 6, despite being priced similarly to the Instinct 2, offers more advanced features, making it a better option for users who want more functionality.
• 😀 For those who do a lot of backcountry trekking or need accurate mapping, the Phoenix 6's mapping capabilities are significantly more useful than those on the Instinct 2.
• 😀 The Phoenix 6 supports custom watch faces via Garmin's Face It app, a feature unavailable on the Instinct 2, which can't use Face It to upload custom photos.
• 😀 Garmin Connect IQ now supports watch faces, apps, widgets, and data fields on the Instinct 2, but more complex apps with color elements may not display correctly on the black-and-white display.
• 😀 Despite the limitations in custom watch faces and mapping, the Instinct 2's long battery life makes it a great choice for outdoor enthusiasts during the summer months.
• 😀 The Phoenix 6 is priced around $399 and includes advanced features, such as stamina tracking and better GPS capabilities, offering significant value over the Instinct 2 in terms of functionality.

Q & A

What new features have been added to the Garmin Instinct 2 with the latest updates?

The Garmin Instinct 2 now supports more features through Garmin Connect IQ, including watch faces, apps, widgets, data fields, and glances. This greatly expands its customization and functionality options.

Are there any limitations in the Garmin Instinct 2's app compatibility?

Yes, some apps may not be fully compatible with the Instinct 2, especially those that use color. The Instinct 2 has a black-and-white display, so apps designed for color displays may not work properly.

Can the Garmin Instinct 2 use FaceIt watch faces?

No, the Instinct 2 cannot use FaceIt watch faces, which allow users to upload their own photos. This feature is available on other Garmin models like the Phoenix series.

What is the key difference in how apps are managed on the Garmin Instinct 2?

On the Garmin Instinct 2, you may notice a delay of a few weeks or months for apps to become compatible. This is because there is a period of adjustment before apps are verified for use with the device.

What new functionality does the Connect IQ store now offer on certain Garmin devices?

The Phoenix 7 and Epix series were the first to include the Connect IQ store directly on the watch, allowing users to access a limited selection of apps. However, it is still a restricted experience with only a small subset of available apps.

What are the main differences between the Garmin Instinct 2 and the Phoenix 6?

The Phoenix 6 offers advanced features such as multi-band GPS, stamina tracking, and better navigation capabilities with maps and waypoints. The Instinct 2 is more focused on long battery life and outdoor sport features but lacks these advanced navigation tools.

Is the Garmin Instinct 2 suitable for users who need detailed navigation features?

No, the Instinct 2 does not offer advanced navigation features like maps or multi-band GPS, which are available on higher-end models like the Phoenix 6 and 7. If navigation is a priority, you might prefer the Phoenix series.

How does the battery life of the Garmin Instinct 2 compare to other Garmin watches?

The Garmin Instinct 2 boasts exceptional battery life, especially for outdoor activities. In some conditions, it can last indefinitely with solar charging, making it ideal for long trips or outdoor adventures.

How does the pricing of the Garmin Phoenix 6 compare to the Instinct 2?

The Garmin Phoenix 6 is priced similarly to the Instinct 2, around $399, but it offers more advanced features like better navigation and multi-band GPS. For users who want a balance of features and price, the Phoenix 6 could be the better choice.

Should a user prioritize solar charging capabilities when choosing between the Instinct 2 and the Phoenix 6?

If battery life and solar charging are key priorities for you, the Instinct 2 could be the better option as it offers unlimited solar-powered use. However, if you need advanced features like multi-band GPS, the Phoenix 6 might be more suitable.