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Garmin Fenix 8 Solar Review

Built with the latest tech there is no watch on the market that matches this unit in terms of performance, feature set, and build quality, it's the best there is
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Garmin Fenix 8 Solar Review
Credit: Matthew Richardson
Price:  $1,100 List
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Manufacturer:   Garmin
By Matthew Richardson ⋅ Review Editor  ⋅  Nov 14, 2024
91
OVERALL
SCORE


RANKED
#2 of 16
  • Accuracy - 30% 9.3
  • Activity Use - 20% 9.5
  • Everyday Use - 15% 9.0
  • Extra Features - 15% 9.5
  • Wearability - 10% 9.5
  • Battery Life - 10% 7.1

Our Verdict

The Garmin Fenix 8 Solar is one of the best GPS watches on the market, but it'll cost you. We tested the Solar version but there is also now an AMOLED option in the series. This update comes with new hardware and software-like assistant features similar to Apple Watch Siri and underwater dive modes. Previously receiving our top award the Fenix no longer feels right to recommend to everyone. The Fenix is made for those who want the best and don't mind spending extra to get it. Discover how it compares to the competition in our GPS watch review.
REASONS TO BUY
Accurate
Premium materials
Great battery life
Solar charging
REASONS TO AVOID
Expensive
Heavy
Complex

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garmin fenix 8 solar
Awards  Top Pick Award
Best on Expedition
Editors' Choice Award
Best Overall GPS Watch
Best Buy Award
Great Value for a High-Quality GPS Watch
Best Buy Award
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Bottom Line Some may find the model overkill, we think that you could save some money by going for a cheaper model and get almost as much performanceWith the best battery life and boosting solar charging this is one of the best for expedition or backcountry useThe 47mm case size offers great readability, and the slim design makes it feel featherweight on your wristGreat craftsmanship and design with an updated UI, menu, and AMOLED displayThis watch excels as an affordable GPS companion, offering value and dependable accuracy
Rating Categories Garmin Fenix 8 Solar Garmin Enduro 3 Garmin Forerunner 965 Suunto Race Coros Pace 3
Accuracy (30%)
9.3
9.3
9.3
9.3
9.0
Activity Use (20%)
9.5
9.5
8.0
8.5
7.5
Everyday Use (15%)
9.0
9.0
8.0
7.5
7.0
Extra Features (15%)
9.5
9.0
8.5
6.5
5.0
Wearability (10%)
9.5
9.3
9.0
9.5
7.5
Battery Life (10%)
7.1
10.0
5.1
6.3
5.4
Specs Garmin Fenix 8 Solar Garmin Enduro 3 Garmin Forerunner 965 Suunto Race Coros Pace 3
Measured Body Diameter 51 mm 47 mm 47.2 mm 49.0 mm 41.9 mm
Screen Type MIP MIP AMOLED AMOLED MIP
Measured Thickness 16.5 mm 17.5 mm 13.2 mm 13.3 mm 11.8 mm
Measured Battery Life with GPS 64 hours 120 hours 29 hours 50 hours 34 hours
Sensors Included Heart rate, altimeter, barometer, compass, temperature, blood oxygen level Heart rate, altimeter, barometer, compass, temperature, blood oxygen level Heart rate, altimeter, barometer, compass, temperature, blood oxygen level Heart rate, altimeter, barometer, compass, blood oxygen level Heart rate, altimeter, barometer, compass, blood oxygen level
Measured Charging Time 120 min 139 min 99 min 84 min 113 min
Measured Screen Width 33 mm 36 mm 35.4 mm 36.0 mm 31.0 mm
Measured Weight 2.70 oz 3.00 oz 1.90 oz 2.93 oz 1.50 oz
Battery Life Claims by Manufacturer Smartwatch: Up to 36 days/90 days with solar
Battery Saver Watch Mode: Up to 92 days/unlimited with solar
GPS Only: Up to 120 hours/320 hours with solar
Smartwatch: Up to 21 days/28 days with solar
Battery Saver Watch Mode: Up to 34 days/58 days with solar
GPS Only: Up to 67 hours/92 hours with solar
All Satellte Systems: Up to 48 hours/59 hours with solar
All Satellite Systems + Multi-band: Up to 37 hours/43 hours with solar
All Satellite Systems + Music: Up to 13 hours
Max Battery GPS: Up to 132 hours/283 hours with solar
Expedition GPS: Up to 34 days/58 days with solar
Smartwatch mode; Up to 23 days
GPS-Only mode without Music: 31 hours
In time mode: 26 days
With 24/7 Tracking and Mobile Notifications: 12 days
Training mode with GPS: 40h / 50h / 70h / 120h
Full GPS: 38 hours - 10 hours with music
All Systems On: 25 hours - 9 hours with music
Dual Frequency: 15 hours - 7 hours with music
Daily Use: 17 days - 15 days with daily stress monitors
Navigation Detailed, back to start Detailed, back to start Detailed, back to start Detailed, back to start Breadcrumb, back to start
Music Options Control, storage Control, storage Control, storage Control only Downloaded control, storage
Touchless Payment Yes Yes Yes No No
Sleep Tracking Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes
Water Resistance (Max Depth) 100m 100m 50m 100m 50m
Main Software App Garmin Connect Garmin Connect Garmin Connect Suunto Coros App
Compatible with Other Software Ecosystems Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes
Watch Face Material Power Sapphire Power Sapphire Corning Gorilla Glass 3 DX Sapphire crystal Mineral Glass
Battery Type Rechargable lithium ion Rechargable lithium ion Rechargable lithium ion Rechargable lithium ion Rechargable lithium ion
Bezel Material Titanium Titanium Titanium Stainless steel Glass fiber reinforced polyamide
Case Material Fiber reinforced polymer with titanium rear cover Fiber reinforced polymer with titanium rear cover Glass fiber reinforced polyamide Glass fiber reinforced polyamide Glass fiber reinforced polyamide
Strap Material Silicone Ultra light-weight elastic nylon hook and loop Silicone Silicone Silicone
Tools Required to Change Band No No No No No
Model Tested 47mm Solar Standard Standard Stainless steel Standard
Size Tested 47 mm 51 mm One size only One size only One size only
Warranty Offered 1 year 1 year 1 year 2 year 2 year

Our Analysis and Test Results

The Fenix series has long received our top recommendation, but with a continually growing price tag, it no longer feels right to recommend it to everyone. Garmin has blended the more premium Epix and Fenix lines together, now offering solar and AMOLED options. The Fenix line previously represented performance and battery life, but now the model feels like it's stepped into luxury territory. It's still an excellent watch, and the design materials stand out among the competition. For better or worse, Garmin has started to add features that go against a more sport-focused model.

As Garmin has mastered battery life, accuracy, and wearability, it has had to make efforts to show improvements elsewhere. As previous Fenix fans, we'd argue we don't need additional software features, including items like voice assistants or dive modes. Sure, there is a subset of the population that would want and use these features, but is the Fenix series the best place to put those? Garmin thought so, and that's why we consider this update a change in the mindset of the lineup.

In a way, though, this update has made the decision-making process easier. Regardless of your preference between AMOLED and Solar MIP, if you want the most bells and whistles, the Fenix series is the watch for you. If your priorities lie more in ground-based GPS activity recording and battery life, we'd recommend the Garmin Enduro 3 to backcountry users. The Garmin Forerunner 965 is recommended for runners and those who want a light, sleek design.

Performance Comparison


garmin fenix 8 solar - the garmin fenix 8 solar is the most premium watch in our lineup it...
The Garmin Fenix 8 Solar is the most premium watch in our lineup it offers the best build quality and features available.
Credit: Matthew Richardson

Accuracy


We determined our accuracy score by assessing both the GPS module and the heart rate monitor in each watch. For GPS testing, we tracked each watch over a set 2.8-mile route and compared the recorded distances to the precise 2.8-mile reference. For heart rate accuracy, we wore a watch on each wrist and ran a 0.5-mile distance, then cross-referenced the recorded readings with the Polar H10 chest strap, a highly reliable device for heart rate measurement. The scores from both tests were averaged to produce an overall accuracy rating. To ensure consistency, GPS tests were conducted under identical weather conditions on the same day, while heart rate testing involved a consistent level of watch tightness. All collected data was exported and aligned by timestamp to enable a precise comparison between each watch and the chest strap.

Thanks to the dual-frequency and MULTI GNSS capabilities, this watch could easily locate satellites, even in remote areas with difficult lines of sight. We observed minimal data inaccuracies. When compared to our other devices, the Fenix 8 Solar recorded a distance of 2.74 miles, just 0.06 miles off the actual 2.80 miles. In terms of heart rate accuracy, it averaged +/- 1.46 BPM, thanks to its latest sensor technology. This performance sets it apart from other brands we've tested.

garmin fenix 8 solar - a comparison between the polar h10 and fenix 8 solar. it took a...
A comparison between the Polar H10 and Fenix 8 Solar. It took a second for this data to sync, which is normal at the start of a run as the systems get calibrated.
Credit: Matthew Richardson

Activity Use


The Fenix 8 maintains its dominance at the top of the lineup for activity use. The 47 mm case is big enough to fit loads of data within display pages, making it great for use while running or biking. The new MIP screen does a great job blending display quality and battery life. For the best visibility in all conditions, get the AMOLED option, but realize that the battery life will be reduced on that version.

The updated UI on this model is also excellent. Updates to the activity display lock make it easy to swipe away when accessing the map navigation or wanting to change music. Hundreds of metric options are available depending on your sport modes, and these are easy to customize within the companion application if you don't want to do it via the watch. Detailed maps are accurate and now pre-downloaded, covering most of the US. These show trails and have good zoom levels to provide detail without overwhelming the map screen.

garmin fenix 8 solar
Credit: Matthew Richardson

Everyday Use


When buying this model you can be confident that you are getting the most technical health features and sensors on the market. Sleep scores, heart rate, and body battery have long been features of premium models, but these have been trickling down to cheaper options. Now, the Fenix 8 boasts items like ECG, Blood Oxygen, Training Readiness, and Recover. You'll also get helpful new features like having the ability to send calls and texts with a paired device. All sizes, including the 43 mm, will also have the newly updated women's health features and options.

Garmin has perfected the touch screen but maintains dedicated buttons. The touch screen is great for moving the maps, scrolling through glances, and adjusting settings. The dedicated buttons are great for starting/stopping activities, scrolling through data pages, and activating the lap key. Each of these dedicated buttons also has the ability to implement hotkeys for items like the flashlight, alarms, and music controls.

There are a variety of glances to choose from shown here is the weather widget on the Garmin Fenix 8 Solar.
Credit: Matthew Richardson

The recently redesigned Garmin Connect app offers a more intuitive user interface, making it easier to interpret your data. You can quickly access recent activities, monitor daily health metrics, and adjust watch settings directly from the app. Garmin has integrated these insights well throughout the app, but you can also view the same data on your watch. The app is where you manage routes, which can be sent to the watch for on-the-go navigation. Adding GPX files is especially convenient, whether you're creating a route on the spot or receiving one just before an adventure. While the app's vast features can feel overwhelming initially, it becomes more navigable with use.

With an updated display now it's even easier to use the detailed maps found on the Garmin Fenix 8 Solar. These are now pre downloaded and available for most of the United States, more can be downloaded via the companion app.
Credit: Matthew Richardson

Extra Features


The Fenix 8 offers the most features out of any Garmin product. While the high cost covers the premium materials, it also covers the increase in internal hardware and software. Now offered are Garmin assistants that use the internal microphone to complete tasks like starting a workout or creating timers. It can also be used when paired with your phone to answer phone calls or talk with Siri. You can also now play music from the watch. There are also new dive modes that have been pulled from other more dive-specific watches in the lineup.

While these features are cool, they aren't something we feel is needed, at least from our use case. However we're sure there are some users coming from the dive/smartwatch side of things that will see the benefit. Luckily, Garmin continues to offer the best lineup of widgets and tools like Garmin Pay, external apps like Spotify, and integration, among other products like Garmin inReach.

garmin fenix 8 solar - the fenix 8 solar has great versatility from road runs and...
The Fenix 8 Solar has great versatility from road runs and backcountry expeditions.
Credit: Matthew Richardson

We're huge fans of this watch's “resume later” feature. While it might not be essential for everyone, we appreciate having a device that continues to function like a regular watch, even during workouts. So, if you stop by a coffee shop or run errands mid-ride, the watch can function just like normal. When you're done, resuming your workout afterward is quick and effortless.

The new sunrise and sunset has a detailed map showing sun angles, this is a great feature for setting up camp or determining where the sun will go next from your location.
Credit: Matthew Richardson

Finally, we can't emphasize enough how useful the flashlight feature is. Garmin is still the only brand offering this, and it's incredibly valuable, particularly in remote areas. With a quick double-tap on the light button, the flashlight turns on, and the latest software now lets you adjust the brightness directly from the same screen. This makes it easy to keep using the watch while modifying the flashlight's intensity.

garmin fenix 8 solar - for trail athletes there is a peace of mind using the fenix 8 solar...
For trail athletes there is a peace of mind using the Fenix 8 Solar allowing you to backtrack your steps or plan an adventure on the go using the included detail maps.
Credit: Matthew Richardson

Wearability


The 47 mm case size continues to provide the best blend of readability and wrist size. Our lead tester, Matthew, thinks you should consider the 51 mm, but if you're set on the 47 mm or smaller 43 mm, then consider the Fenix 8. The AMOLED provides great visibility and clarity but lacks battery life, and the all-day modes are less subtle than the MIP display. You should opt for MIP if you want a more subtle experience and don't need the brightness that comes with AMOLED.

The removable straps are excellent on the Fenix 8 — they have more tactile indexing than the previous version, but they use the same clasp system, so older straps will be backward compatible. Sapphire lens prevents scratches, so we'd specifically recommend the Fenix for climbers or those in rocky environments. The multi-color titanium case is flashy and aesthetic. Some will find the price increase justified as this new design is cooler and more intricate. If you've felt the Fenix series was boring in the past, you may be more compelled by this updated design.

garmin fenix 8 solar - a comparison of the 51mm garmin enduro 3 and the 47mm fenix 8 solar
A comparison of the 51mm Garmin Enduro 3 and the 47mm Fenix 8 Solar
Credit: Matthew Richardson

Battery Life


We tested the battery running GPS without solar inputs and received 64 hours of continuous recording. Garmin claims 66 hours of run time, which can be expanded to 92 hours with solar input. Depending on your climate zone, the solar charging feature could help a ton or be a non-factor. In the desert Southwest, we easily experience days of 100k lux, which helps the battery last seemingly forever. This is even more beneficial on the Fenix 8 as Garmin has drastically improved the solar capabilities.

You can expect multiple weeks of battery life without GPS recording, with daily activities we generally need to charge our model every week plus/minus a few days depending on the length of activities. We'd recommend the Fenix for ultra-athletes or those who want extensive battery life. The Garmin Enduro 3 is a cheaper way to get more battery, but the model is thicker and only comes in the 51 mm case size. Expect the 43 mm to have less battery and the 51 mm to have more battery than the 47 mm version which we tested. If you like to do a lot of navigation via your watch or plan on having large courses, the Fenix could be a welcome upgrade over cheaper options.

garmin fenix 8 solar - with 66 hours of gps recording time with more via solar charging you...
With 66 hours of GPS recording time with more via solar charging you can expect this unit to last days and week, great for ultra athletes or overnight trips.
Credit: Matthew Richardson

Should You Buy the Garmin Fenix 8 Solar?


If you're looking for the best Garmin has to offer, then the Fenix 8 is for you. Garmin continues to offer the best hardware and software in the business, so we think you won't be disappointed with your purchase. For those who don't need the latest and greatest, there are other options on the market that make more sense when considering value. You could also look for past models on sale that almost match the Fenix 8 in all metrics. This is still a watch we highly recommend, and the Fenix series continues to be at the top of Garmin's main offerings.

What Other GPS Watches Should You Consider?


The Garmin Forerunner 965 receives our top recommendation for most people. It's slim, offers great battery life, and is at a price most can stomach. While not as durable as the Fenix 8 it still offers an exceptional feature set. For backcountry users, we'd recommend the Garmin Enduro 3, which receives our top pick award for battery life and usage in rugged environments. Built for serious athletes, we love the 51 mm case size display, which offers great readability even when moving fast.

garmin fenix 8 solar - we hope this made your decision making process with the fenix 8...
We hope this made your decision making process with the Fenix 8 Solar easier. Have fun out there!
Credit: Matthew Richardson

Matthew Richardson