Garmin Instinct 2 Solar Review

While watches continue to do more and more as technology advances, we appreciate the design of the Instinct 2 Solar, which reduces the feature set to things that you need and will most likely use daily. The tactical design and internals provide everything you need without the extras found on the most premium models. Arguably, this is the best feature set of any of the watches when compounded with the solar extending battery life. If you're doing a 30+ hour night adventure, then there are probably other options you should consider, but at this price point, we are impressed with the day-to-day performance of this model. You still receive health metrics, navigation, breadcrumb mapping, music controls, and all of the GPS activities/data fields you have come to expect from Garmin. The rugged design may not be for everyone, but we think this is a great option if it fits your style or you want a bomb-proof option without spending top prices.

Performance Comparison

Accuracy

Our accuracy scores were found by determining the accuracy of the GPS chipset and heart rate sensors, then averaging those findings for a final overall score. For the GPS evaluation, each watch was used to traverse a precisely measured 2.8-mile course, and the recorded distance was compared against this known distance. For the heart rate assessment, we wore a watch on each wrist and ran a 0.5-mile segment. After, we compared the readings to those from the highly accurate Polar H10 chest strap. To be sure there was no interference from varied weather conditions, GPS testing was performed all on the same day. The watches were fitted equally tight to ensure a controlled fit for heart rate readings. Finally, we exported and synchronized the data based on timestamps to ensure a fair comparison between the chest strap and the GPS watch.

This unit's accuracy was impressive when compared to our control device, the H10 Polar chest strap. The watch's heart rate readings were within +/-0.39 BPM, and its GPS was similarly precise, with a deviation of only +/-0.11 miles over a 2.8-mile distance. While this model lacks multi-dual frequency GPS, its performance remains excellent, and in most cases, we find this additional feature to be non-essential.

Activity Usage

The Instinct 2 is one of the more unique devices we've tested and doesn't scream complexity like most other Garmin models. Opting for simplicity in both design and feature set, we preferred this model when we wanted more protection. For climbers, watersports, or those in technical terrain, you may want to use this more beefy design. The overall unit stays quite light from the plastic construction, so the added protection doesn't weigh you down.

The smaller screen area makes looking at the data screen and metrics more difficult, so if you are moving at a fast pace, you might have to slow down to read the model accurately if you have many metrics on the same page. There is also a lack of health metrics when compared to other models, so if you're someone who has loads of data pages, you may want to opt for a device with a large display. Navigation on the device is by breadcrumb only, which is largely adequate, in our opinion. While it's nice to see the fully detailed topo for easy trail decisions, we've never found that using any watch in our lineup is better at complex navigation than our phone.

The Instinct 2 supports a host of sport modes and specific data metrics, and we are impressed with the additional updates that Garmin has pushed to the model. For a full list of sport modes and metrics, we suggest checking out the product page.

Everyday Use

Garmin has done a great job with user interface and software design. We feel that it's intuitive and easy to use. We appreciate the dedicated buttons on the Instinct 2, which are tactile and provide predictable interaction even while on the move. The menu system is easy to follow, and you have the option to configure the watch both via the app and the watch itself. Adjusting the various settings is straightforward and makes sense once you learn how the menu system operates. The ability to add/remove tools and widgets allows you to tailor your watch to your specific uses and display only the important information.

The recent home screen update to Garmin Connect has made the app more user-friendly and less cluttered. We previously had complaints about the messy design but are happy to say that this has been improved greatly. We continue to use third-party applications such as Strava to view our data, document our activities, and see what our friends are up to. The Instinct 2 also provides a host of health metrics throughout the day, such as sleep, steps, and body battery. Also available are various performance metrics that can analyze your training data and help give you a better picture of your strong suits and weaknesses.

Extra Features

A non-color, no-touch, E-ink-looking display provides all of the features and information you need for your adventures and day-to-day life. Today's GPS watch market is always showing off the latest and greatest features and tools, but the Instinct 2 Solar provides a refined list. Arguably, the most impressive feature is the battery-extending solar screen, which increases battery life in high-intensity solar conditions. The turn-by-turn navigation of preloaded routes and breadcrumb mapping can assist with navigation in unfamiliar terrain or low visibility. Ample smartphone-connected features like notifications and music control make this a watch you can use every day. Additionally, some of the most important health metrics are found in this model, such as heart rate and sleep metrics. Of course, it has the basics, too, such as your ABCs (altimeter, barometer, and compass).

We feel this is an exceptional feature set at this price point. Other attributes should also largely influence your decision, but in our opinion, this feature set is what you need in a GPS watch. While additional features are nice, some can be gimmicky and rarely used.

Wearability

The Instinct 2 has the most rugged and tactical look of any of the watches we tested. If this is your primary watch, this could make or break your decision. The five tactile buttons are functional and feel nice, especially while moving. A scroll wheel, in our opinion, takes a bit too much precision while on the move, so we are glad Garmin continues to implement buttons in their watches. However, unlike most watches we tested, the supplied wristband is not hinged. We prefer a hinged strap design because it conforms to the wrist better and reduces space between the watch case and wrist. Luckily, Garmin offers a quick-release 22mm band that hinges on the pin and is not fixed like the original.

The small circular display changes for various screens and unique data fields are designed for this small area. We wish the software had been designed for this overlay instead of weirdly blocking out the background. This isn't a huge gripe, but it seems a bit half-baked; if this display is important to the watch, we feel the software should also be updated to include this design choice and not cut off various text.

Battery Life

With the introduction of solar charging, Garmin claims virtually endless battery life. Of course, this is determined by the amount of sun you receive during the day and your location. This feature works best with direct sunlight and few clouds, and vegetation can also impact its effectiveness. GPS mode will also burn more battery than daily use; therefore, you will need to understand the solar limits, especially if you plan on depending on the sun for all your charging needs.

With a claimed 30 hours in standard GPS mode, the Instinct 2 does not have the battery life of the high-end models that boast 100+ hours on a single charge while using GPS. Instead, the Instinct shines for those users not planning on epic GPS recording activities where conditions are variable. While batteries continue to improve with GPS watches, a potential for 30+ hours far exceeds your normal day-to-day outings and adventures. This watch should be suitable for most users, and the solar benefits are always there for a charge here and there throughout the day. The Instinct 2 is also perfect for expeditions in the high mountains, glaciers, and deserts where high solar intensity is likely. Determining your ability to access electricity should be considered when making your final decision. If charging your watch on an extended trip is one less thing you'd like to worry about, this is a great option.

Should You Buy the Garmin Instinct 2?

We are big fans of the Garmin Instinct 2 Solar. This is a rugged GPS watch with all the features you need for expeditions and adventures. While not having all the bells and whistles of the top-end models, it has everything you need and nothing you don't. If this watch fits your style, we think it's an excellent choice and comes at a reasonable price point. The baseline battery could be slightly better, but the solar option creates a potentially limitless use time. If a GPS watch is essential while you are away from electricity, this is a solid choice. And if you like the look but don't need the solar capabilities, the Instinct 2 is available in a non-solar version too.

What Other GPS Watches Should You Consider?

Other solar models in our lineup are the Garmin Enduro 3, Garmin Fenix 8 Solar, and the Suunto Vertical. These are great options for expedition usage, but cost a lot more than the Instinct 2. In 2024, the display of the Instinct 2 feels a bit dated. However, this continues to be Garmin's most rugged-looking model. If you are open to other styles for a similar cost, we'd recommend the Coros Apex Pro 2. This watch will offer much more performance and pure battery life without having to rely on solar charging.