Garmin fenix 7 Buying Guide
How to Choose Between the Garmin fenix 7S, 7, and 7X
The fenix series has always represented Garmin's top of the line. These multisport watches have advanced features and in-depth running data that set the standard for all other GPS watches. It's used by ultramarathoners and triathletes alike because of the long battery life, endless wealth of training analysis, ability to track multiple sports, and rugged durability.
The Garmin fenix watch line includes the fenix 7S, 7, and 7X. At their core, each of these models is the same, with just slightly different styles and variations.*
New Features
The Garmin fenix 7 watch series is a top choice for both triathletes and ultramarathoners thanks to its top-of-the-line technology and unbeatable battery life. Coming in 3 different sizes, the fenix 7S is the smallest at 42 mm and has up to 11 days of battery life that extends up to 14 days in the solar version. The fenix 7 sits in the middle of the size range at 46 mm. It features 18 days of battery life with the non-solar version and 22 days of battery life with the solar version. Finally at a whopping 51 mm, the fenix 7X is definitely a large watch, but if you are looking for a long battery life, this model is hard to beat. The fenix 7X has a battery life of up to 28 days, extending to an outstanding 37-day battery life in the solar version.
In addition, the fenix 7 gets several new features, including an enhanced tracking system that easily collects all daily biometric data to help maximize your health and training efforts. Interface functionality is simplified with the help of touchscreen capabilities along with customizable real-time setup from the convenience of your phone. Preloaded TopoActive maps give runners access to downloadable maps from around the world, while Up Ahead offers at-a-glance insight on important trail checkpoints and markers. Also, the fenix is reinforced with U.S. military-grade materials to protect against anything the trails throw its way.
Top Features in All fenix 7 Models
| Pulse Ox | Shows blood oxygen saturation to monitor acclimation to high-altitude running |
| VO2 Max | Automatically acclimates based on heat and altitude |
| PacePro | Visual pacing guidance that keeps the wearer on track |
| More Music Storage | Download up to 2,000 songs for offline listening |
| Battery Modes | Switch off individual settings that drain battery life and see the extended time immediately |
| Power Modes | Select preset modes such as Max Battery or Expedition to extend battery life |
| Swimming HR | Tracks heart rate while underwater |
| Maps Display Themes | View maps with high contrast or dark modes for easy visibility |
| Trendline Popularity Routing | Shows heat maps with popular routes near your location |
| ClimbPro | New look with color display graphs |
Materials & Pricing
All Standard versions use Corning Gorilla Glass, a stainless steel bezel, and silicone bands for a tough and versatile option. While the fenix Solar and Sapphire Solar models share all of the same internal features, the only differences come from the materials used to make them and the price that follows. The Solar models use a Power Glass lens for solar charging properties with a stainless steel bezel and silicone band. The Sapphire models take durability up a notch by using sapphire crystal, a titanium or DLC (diamond-like carbon) bezel, and a scratch-resistant Power Sapphire solar charging lens.
| Models | fenix 7S/7 Standard | fenix 7S/7 Solar | fenix 7X Solar | fenix 7S/7 Sapphire | fenix 7X Sapphire |
| Lens | Corning Gorilla Glass | Power Glass | Power Glass | Power Sapphire | Power Sapphire |
| Bezel | Stainless Steel | Stainless Steel | Stainless Steel | Titanium or DLC (diamond-like carbon) | Titanium or DLC (diamond-like carbon) |
| Band | Silicone | Silicone | Silicone | Silicone | Silicone |
| Price | $699 | $799 | $899 | $899 | $999 |
*Price and band material varies by model
Screen Size, Battery Life, and Weight
| Models | fenix 7S | fenix 7 Solar | fenix 7X Solar |
| Screen Size | 1.2" (30.4 mm) diameter | 1.3" (33.02 mm) diameter | 1.4" (35.56 mm) diameter |
| Battery Life |
Smartwatch Mode: Up to 18 days GPS: Up to 57 hours GPS + Music: Up to 10 hours Max Battery: Up to 90 hours |
Smartwatch Mode: 18 days/ 22 days with solar GPS: Up to 57 hours/ 73 hours with solar** GPS + Music: Up to 10 hours Max Battery: Up to 136 hours/289 hours with solar** |
Smartwatch Mode: 21 days/ 24 days with solar GPS: Up to 89 hours/122 hours with solar** GPS + Music: Up to 16 hours Max Battery: Up to 213 hours/578 hours with solar** |
| Weight |
63 g (case only: 47 g) |
79 g (case only: 56 g) | 89 g (case only: 61 g) |
**Assuming all-day wear with 3 hours per day outside in 50,000 lux conditions (aka full brightness)
Choosing Between the Options
Now that we've broken down the main differences between the models, deciding which watch will work best for your training comes down to personal preference.
The fenix 7S may be the best option for you if you have smaller wrists and want a lightweight watch with over 24 hours of battery life.
The standard fenix 7 may be best for those who want a larger screen size with extra battery life, and who always stream music when they run.
The fenix 7X is ideal for the runner who wants several days of GPS tracking, plenty of music streaming hours, a larger display with additional data fields, and who doesn't mind the extra weight.
Lastly, if you tend to be rough on your gear and need your watch to withstand the rigors of training in extreme environments, then we recommend considering one of the Sapphire models.
