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First Look at Garmin’s new Fenix2 Multisport & Triathlon Watch

Garmin Fenix2 Openwater Swim

Please note: My Final Fenix2 In-Depth Review is now available and published here.

Today, Garmin announced their latest watch – the Fenix2.  This unit builds upon the first generation Fenix unit that was initially released in the summer of 2012.  At the time, that unit was heavily targeted at hikers and ultra runners.  Over the past 18 months though the unit has slowly grown closer and closer to a more traditional Garmin Forerunner, even adding in Bluetooth Smart notifications late last year.

However, while the Fenix grew to more deeply cover the running segment, it lacked some of the components needed for a triathlete – such as swimming support, or power meter support on the bike.  Further, it was missing the all important ‘multisport mode’, which allows you to quickly switch between sports – primarily in a race.  All of these areas are now covered by the Fenix2.

But before we get too far ahead of ourselves, let me back up briefly.  I’ve had the device for a bit of time now, and have been poking away at it on all three sports (and then some).  While the device is set to be available in March, it’s still in beta.  Thus, as I’ve been doing lately I’m waiting to do a full in-depth review later in March once I have final software for the unit and can fully test everything.  Like always, once I’m done with the unit I ship it back to Garmin and go out and get my own through normal retail channels.

Since the Fenix2 is beta, it certainly has bugs – like any other beta product.  Thus I don’t want you to think my time with it has been perfect, but I’ve been impressed with the speed to fix the outstanding issues, and in the grand scheme of things – how few issues there are compared to other products I’ve tested at this stage.

With that, let’s dive into things.

What’s in the box:

Garmin Fenix2 Boxed

Inside the Fenix2 box you’ll find a bit of a matryoshka doll design for the different pieces and parts (those, btw, are the Russian nesting dolls).

Garmin Fenix2 UnBoxed

The watch itself sits on the pedestal in the middle, while the accessories hang out in the little box to the left.  The big box to the right is simply the outer shell.

Inside that accessories box you’ll find a slew of stuff.  First up, depending on whether you buy the HR bundle or not, is the heart rate strap (more on that in a second).  Then you’ve got the charging clip, along with a separate Fenix Velcro expander strap designed for heavy winter coats.  Finally, you have some tools to change the watch straps.

Garmin Fenix2 UnBoxed Components

Here’s the much wider Fenix extender soft/Velcro straps, along with the screws and components to swap it out.  This is primarily used on winter coats, given the additional Ski/Snowboard modes.

Garmin Fenix2 UnBoxed Fabric Strap

Next of note is the HRM-RUN heart rate strap.  This is Garmin’s premium heart rate strap introduced with the Garmin FR620.  The Fenix2 supports all the same Running Dynamics features that the FR620 supports.  I’ll cover that later on in this post though.  The HRM-RUN strap is easily identified by the little runner man icon on it.

Garmin Fenix2 UnBoxed HRM-RUN

Then we’ve got the USB charging clip.  This is the same clip as the original Fenix/Tactix, and is used for charging the unit, as well as downloading from it (or to it).  You can also use your mobile phone as well.

Garmin Fenix2 UnBoxed Charging Clip

Switching gears to the watch itself, it’s a virtually identical shell as the Tactix unit, which is almost identical to the original Fenix.  The Fenix2 goes for the inverted color scheme (white text on black background), rather than the opposite in the original Fenix.

Also of note is the buttons are swapped around, changing the arrangement a bit.  In order to access the menu at any time you’ll hold down the middle left button (titled menu).  Otherwise, a quick tap acts as an up button, with the down button below it.  The light is always the light button.  On the right side you have the Start/Stop button, and then lap/back button.  This all mirrors the Garmin Forerunner button trends as well.

Garmin Fenix2 Front Face Button

And finally, here’s a look at the back of the unit.

Garmin Fenix2 Back of unit

With that, let’s go ahead and dive in – literally – and start going through the features.  Because there’s so much ground to cover, and because this isn’t a full in-depth review, I’m mostly focusing on the new functionality.  The Fenix2 retains all of the existing functionality of the original Fenix (as well as almost everything except military-focused features in the recently introduced Tactix), thus, rather than repeat those all, I’m going to just focus on the new and exciting things.  Sound good?  Good.

Swim – Pool:

Garmin Fenix2 Pool Swimming Mode

The Garmin Fenix2 introduces the ability to track swimming both indoors in a pool, as well as openwater.  Taking a look at the indoor piece first, users of the Garmin Swim and Garmin FR910XT will find things fairly similar.  To start a pool workout you’ll head into the Swim sport option, and then choose Pool.  Note that even if swimming in an outdoor pool, you’ll want to choose ‘Pool’, and not GPS.

This is because the unit (like every other swim watch on the market) uses an accelerometer to determine when you hit each length of the pool.  This is generally based on the push off the wall – either open or flip – and then the acceleration shortly thereafter.

After selecting pool, you’ll then choose the length of your pool.  You have some preset options – such as 25y or 50m, as well as the ability to customize any pool length up to 149 yards/meters.  The shortest you can configure is 18m/20y.

Once that’s done, you’re ready to swim.

Like the FR910XT, the unit supports the ability to customize the data fields.  You can create numerous data pages (more than I can count – at least 10), and are limited to three data fields per page (you can have a single data field if you’d like).  Within the option to configure the fields, you’ll find the swim section, enabling you to choose relevant swim fields.  But you’ve also got fields like lap time and the like.

Once you’ve started the timer you’ll swim just like normal.  The only advice I’d give (and I’ll cover this in more detail in my full in-depth review) is to ensure that you aren’t randomly stopping mid-lane to chat, or leaving the timer running if you go to flirt with the lifeguard.  After all, the unit bases it’s calculations on movement – and unexpected movement (like doing the YMCA song), will impact readings.

Garmin Fenix2 Pool Swimming Mode The Girl

For better or worse, the pool a few hundred meters from my house is like an open-water triathlon swim start…every time.  On average 15-20 people in a single 33.3 meter long lane.  While it makes for miserable (mostly slow) workouts, it does at least provide great testing grounds for accuracy of lap tracking in near constant speed-up/slow-down situations (such as passing someone mid-lane).

While swimming with the watch you can record interval splits (such as creating a set), for either current analysis or later analysis.  On the watch you can display status such as current interval stats, including strokes, stroke rate, time, distance, etc…

Garmin Fenix2 Pool Swimming Data Fields

Later on, upon uploading to Garmin Connect, this same information is displayed there.  Note that there are some minor oddities in the data seen below, as things are still in beta a bit (for example, even though I swam in a meter pool, it shows up as yards, making the numbers a bit complex to grasp).  Also, there’s a minor issue in that I suck at swimming.

Garmin Fenix2 Pool Swimming Data Garmin Connect

Scrolling down further, you’ll get stroke information as well as as efficiency information.  On the left side you’ll notice three intervals that I created while swimming.  One at approximately 500m, one at 150m, and one at 350m.  Roughly.

Garmin Fenix2 Pool Swimming Data Garmin Connect

Now, there are some differences between the Fenix2 and the Garmin Swim/910XT.  First off, unlike the Garmin Swim, you can’t do Drill Mode, which allowed you to set distances for sections where you were doing drills (such as kickboard) that didn’t give any useful data.  In addition, unlike the FR910XT (which doesn’t have drill mode), you can’t setup any swim alerts – such as distance or time alerts that might vibrate.  On the flip side, you have far more customization options than the Garmin Swim with the Fenix2.  And, unlike both the Swim/910XT, you can upload your workout to Garmin Connect pool-side from the app.  Note that Garmin is open however to the idea of adding both (drill and swim alerts), but nothing has been finalized there yet.  Hang tight for the final review to see if things shift.

Swim – Openwater:

Garmin Fenix2 Openwater Start Swim

Next up, heading outside into the (frigid) waters for an openwater swim.  While in Barcelona this past weekend I had the chance to get a single openwater swim in, about 75 minutes after racing the Barcelona Half-Marathon.

Unlike in pool mode, while in openwater mode the unit uses the GPS to determine distance and pace/speed, while using the internal accelerometer to determine strokes.  Combined, the functionality is exactly the same as the Garmin FR910XT while outdoors.  And ultimately, it’s the same openwater swim code chunks being ported into the Fenix2 from the FR910XT.

To start an openwater swim, you’ll head into the same menu to choose the ‘Swim’ sport, and then from there you’ll see the openwater option (shown above).  After the unit gets satellite reception, it’s ready for you to press start and actually start swimming.

While swimming, the unit will show you metrics including stroke rate (strokes per minute), pace (how fast you’re going), and distance.  Like indoors you can create lap splits as well, and, should you need to – you can also pause the unit.

Garmin Fenix2 Openwater Finish Swim

While I had a brilliantly chilly swim, there was a mix-up on which beta drop was on my unit that had which openwater swim code in it, thus – my total distance data was a bit wonky (though I was highly impressed by how nearly spot on the FR910XT, Suunto Ambit 2, and a reference swimcap FR620 were to each other – all within .03 miles).  I’ve been told I should have a new beta drop by the end of the week that should eliminate the issue I saw (since it’ll have the right code section in it), so I’ll re-test things again Monday/Tuesday when I’m in Barcelona for Mobile World Congress.

Garmin Fenix2 Openwater Flipping Cold

I’ll update this section once I have my next openwater swim there.  For those curious, I was testing with the FR910XT and Suunto Ambit on one wrist, and the Garmin Fenix2 on the other wrist.  In my swimcap, I was using a Garmin FR620.  Just to be clear, the FR620 does not measure swim related information – I’m simply using it to measure distance above the water line as a known good.

Bike – With Power Meter Support:

Garmin Fenix2 Cycling Power Meter

Moving into the next triathlon sport – cycling, the Fenix2 adds a slew of new capabilities there, primarily around power meter support.  The existing Fenix(1) and Tactix units did have a cycling mode that was upgraded after release and steadily improved upon, ultimately encompassing a fairly functional bike watch.

However, it lacked power meter support, and thus lost appeal with some triathletes and cyclists.  The Fenix2 introduces power meter support for ANT+ capable power meters, such as the PowerTap, Garmin Vector, or Quarq Cinqo (among many others like Stages, Power2Max, SRM, etc…).  In short: If it’s an ANT+ power meter, it’ll work with Garmin Fenix2.

To pair to an ANT+ power meter you’ll head into the settings menu and then into sensors and find power meter:

Garmin Fenix2 Cycling Power Meter Search

Then, you’ll let the Fenix2 find the ANT+ power meter on your bike.  Depending on the model of power meter, it’ll walk you through the appropriate calibration steps.  For example, with Garmin Vector it’ll follow the standard prescribed steps of the three major phases of configuration/setup (spinning at 70-80 RPM, static calibration, and then dynamic calibration).

Garmin Fenix2 Cycling Power Meter Calibration

In addition, the unit supports configuring both crank length (requirement for Vector), as well as wheel size.  This is all in addition to any ANT+ speed/cadence sensor support.  There, the unit supports ANT+ Speed/Cadence combo sensors, ANT+ Speed-only sensors, and ANT+ Cadence-only sensors.  It does not support any Bluetooth Smart sensors of any sort.

Once you’ve got everything all paired up you’ll probably want to configure some relevant data screens.  Certainly, for cycling that’d likely be data fields including distance, speed (either in MPH or KPH), and ascent.  For power meter users, you have a slew of new options there as well.  Here are the current power meter fields available as written in the unit (subject to change of course):

% FTP, AVG BAL, AVG PWR, BAL, BAL 10S, BAL 30S, BAL 3S, IF, KILOJOULES, LAP BAL, LAP NP, LLAP NP, LLAP PWR, MAX LAP PWR, MAX PWR, NP, PDL SMOOTH, POWER, PWR 10S, PWR 30S, PWR 3S, PWR ZONE, TORQUE EFF, TSS, WATTS/KG

BAL = Balance, AVG = Average, FTP = Functional Threshold Power, IF = Intensity Factor, LLAP = Last Lap, PWR = Power, PDL SMOOTH = Pedal Smoothness, TORQUE EFF = Torque Efficiency, TSS = Training Stress Score

The TSS/NP/IF metrics come from TrainingPeaks, and align to what’s displayed on TrainingPeaks and Garmin Connect.  Those also roughly align to other metrics called other names by other companies.

Garmin Fenix2 Cycling Power Meter Data

Note that of course you don’t need a power meter (or any ANT+ sensor) to use bike mode with the Fenix2.  In this case, I’m merely pointing out some of the newer features.  Within my full in-depth review I’ll cover the functionality more broadly.  But just to put it in context, I used cycling mode this past weekend while bumbling around Barcelona on what were effectively beach cruiser bikes for a few hours.  Here, my map:

Garmin Fenix2 Cycling Map

(The little squiggles in the one section is where I stopped and had hot chocolate)

Like all sports within the Fenix2, you can configure up to three data fields per page, and up to dozens of pages per sport.  And, like all sports, in cycling mode you’ll save your data for upload later – either via plugging it in, or via phone.  And, you can also do Live Tracking as well (just not with ANT+ sensors recording/enabled).  But more on the Live Tracking in a bit.

Run – With Running Dynamics, VO2Max, and Race Predictor:

Garmin Fenix2 Running Start

The Fenix2 adds almost all of the features found on the new Garmin FR620 from a running dynamics and run ‘coaching’ standpoint.  The first part, what Garmin calls ‘Running Dynamics’, capture movements that are part of your running stride.  These metrics are captured via the Garmin HRM-RUN strap, which is compatible with the Fenix2.  This ANT+ heart rate strap is compatible with any ANT+ unit, but only the FR620 and Fenix2 can capture the additional running dynamics pieces that are transmitted from the heart rate strap to the watch.

Today, that includes the following metrics:

Cadence: Total steps per minute – this has previously been available on the footpod, but this brings it internal to the HR strap
Vertical Oscillation: This is measuring the ‘bounce’ in a runners torso within each step. This is vertical motion, measured in centimeters.
Ground Contact Time: How much time your foot spends touching the ground, measured in milliseconds

Now, cadence can also come from the ANT+ footpod as well.  And in addition, with the Fenix2 (like the original Fenix in a recent update), can also determine cadence from the unit without a footpod (indoors/outdoors).  Further, the Fenix2 also retains the recent change to the Fenix adding the ability to get pace & distance information from the wrist indoors without a footpod.  While I haven’t yet re-tested the Fenix2 indoors from an accuracy standpoint, I’m hesitant to assume it’ll be any more accurate than my recent tests of the Fenix indoors with the beta firmware there (which showed speed accuracy was variable).

These metrics are shown on the unit itself on a new Running Dynamics data page that you can enable.  It mirrors what you’d see on the FR620, even including the little gauge along the top, which is done with the dots, indicating where you are performance-wise:

Garmin Fenix2 Running Dynamics

Afterwards, on Garmin Connect, you’ll see the Running Dynamics metrics there.  You can see them here for my half-marathon:

Garmin Fenix2 Running Dynamics Garmin Connect

Like with the FR620, there isn’t a ton of detailed guidance yet on what to do with the data.  Some areas such as cadence are well understood – but beyond that I suspect it’s going to be some time until sport scientists have enough data from enough people to really give clear-cut messaging here.

Garmin Fenix2 Running Mid-Run

Moving beyond Running Dynamics, the unit adds additional running coaching type features, all of which are found on the FR620, and one of which is found on the FR910XT (Training Effect):

VO2Max Estimation: This utilizes information from the heart rate strap and heart rate variability (HRV) to determine a VO2Max estimation.  This is then displayed following each run.

Race Predictor: Race Predictor uses simple lookup tables to take your VO2Max combined with age/gender and determine ‘best possible’ race times.

Recovery Advisor: Recovery advisor gives you the estimated time until your next hard workout.  This counter is always available on the watch to see how much time is left.

Training Effect: Training Effect provides a score of a given workout and how impactful that workout was on your body.

To be clear on race predictor, it doesn’t take into account your actual training.  It simply does a lookup on a chart comparing your VO2Max with gender/age to known potential race results.  It’s purely a ‘best case scenario’.  I’ve found it fairly close, but not 100% on the mark.

Garmin Fenix2 Running VO2Max

Garmin Fenix2 Running Race Predictor

All of these metrics are shown on the watch, as well as uploaded to Garmin Connect.  On the watch, you can access them via the menu system at any time:

Garmin Fenix2 Running Recovery Advisor

Garmin Fenix2 Running Recovery Advisor

And later, on Garmin Connect they’re shown in a few different places.  The Training Effect score is shown on the activity itself, while the VO2Max score is shown on the dashboard.

Garmin Fenix2 Running Completion

Beyond the Running Dynamics and coaching-related features, the Fenix2 contains both workout and interval functionality, allowing you to create workouts via Garmin Connect and then download them to the unit wirelessly (or, via USB).  For example, I created this simple workout here on Garmin Connect, and then later pushed it to the Fenix2:

Garmin Fenix2 Workout Creation

Here it is on the Fenix2.  In this case, the unit will walk me through the different portions of the workout, displaying my targets for each section.

Garmin Fenix2 Workout Creation

Now, there are some items to be aware of when it comes to the FR620 (or FR910XT) and the Fenix2.  For example, the Fenix2 doesn’t contain a Virtual Racer mode like the FR910XT contains (which allows you to race against past/other efforts).  It does contain the Virtual Partner however, so you can race against a virtual pace, seeing how far ahead/behind you are with respect to time/distance.

On the Fenix2 side, the unit doesn’t allow both concurrent ANT+ and Bluetooth Smart, which means that you have to choose whether to connect an ANT+ device such as a heart rate strap, or do Bluetooth Smart driven Live Tracking.

And finally, unlike both the FR620/FR910XT, the Fenix2 is limited to 3 items per screen page.  But on the flip side, the Fenix2 can have a heck of a lot more screen pages.  And the Fenix2 has all the Running Dynamics/coaching/Bluetooth features that the FR910XT lacks.

Multisport Mode:

Garmin Fenix2 Multisport Mode

Perhaps the most critical addition for the Fenix2 is the multisport mode – at least from the perspective of a triathlete.  Without such a mode, I don’t believe a multisport watch is really…well…a multisport watch.  Multisport mode allows you to quickly shift from one sport to the next.  For example, from swim to bike to run, and to record the transition times in between them (just like you would in a race).

The Fenix2 supports the ability to customize which sports are included in your multisport mode lineup.  For example, you could do the traditional Swim/T1/Bike/T2/Run arrangement, or, you could also do Skiing/Cycling/Paddling (like some adventure races).

To configure Multisport you’ll simply head into the sport menu and then select which sports you want to use.  You can choose any sports that you’ve configured in the watch:

Garmin Fenix2 Multisport Mode Config

You’ll also have the option to enable transition recording times as well:

Garmin Fenix2 Multisport Mode Config Transitions

Once you’ve started things, it’s mostly business as normal from an activity standpoint.  The data pages will show up for each sport as you’ve previously configured them.

In order to switch between sports you’ll simply press the ‘Lap’ button (lower right).  As you do so, the unit will show you the total time, and then the individual sport you’re in.  You’ll simply continue this pattern until you’ve completed the multi-sport activity.

Note that the Fenix2 will create a single multisport .FIT file, and then upon upload to Garmin Connect, it’ll show as separate activities (Swim/Bike/Run).  Also note that the Fenix2 doesn’t have a quick-release kit for it – unlike the FR910XT, so it’s a watch that will remain on your wrist from start to finish, across all three sports.

Live Tracking and Mobile Phone Uploads:

IMG_0290IMG_0293IMG_0292

Today, Garmin is launching a bunch of app updates and introductions.  To start, they’re updating the Android app which will enable uploads from the Garmin FR220/FR620/Fenix/Fenix2/Tactix (via Bluetooth Smart), in addition to the existing Edge 510/810 units.  On the iOS side, they’ll be releasing an update today that adds uploading support for the Fenix/Fenix2/Tactix to the already existing support for the FR220/FR620/Edge 510/Edge 810.  Beyond all that, the apps will support Vivofit as well (today as well). [Update, later in the day: Garmin has clarified that the Android update for today will not include the Fenix/Fenix2/Tactix support, that got slightly delayed, but is still planed for Q1]

I didn’t have a chance to look at the new app prior to today, but Garmin sent over a few screenshots of how things look.  I’m sure within a few hours we’ll all have a chance to dig in more deeply (remember, it may take a few hours to show globally, once it’s released today).  Above, you can see the refreshed UI for iOS, which has a much more iOS7 looking feel to it.

Garmin Fenix2 iPhone Pairing

The functionality of the Fenix2 connected with the mobile applications matches that of the Garmin FR220/FR620, which enables the following scenarios:

Live Tracking: You can transmit your current location and track history to a shared site that allows friends/family/etc to follow your progress.

Uploading of completed activities: Following an activity, the Fenix2 will automatically upload the workout using your phone to Garmin Connect.

Downloading of workouts: Fenix2 can download workouts that are created on Garmin Connect via your phone.  Those workouts can then be executed on the watch (such as zone/pace instructions)

Downloading of satellite data: This speeds up initial acquisition of the satellites, and can reduce the time to satellite acquisition to a few seconds.  Pretty cool stuff.

Notifications via Bluetooth Smart: This provides the ability on the watch get text messages, tweets, and anything else you’d like.  As long as an app notifies, the watch notifies you…instantly.

All of these items require that you have a Bluetooth Smart capable device – either iOS or Android.  On Android, that’s Android 4.3 or higher, and on iOS that’s an iPhone 4s or newer (or  3rd generation iPads or later).  Previous phones won’t work.  Do note that on the live tracking piece, you MUST have your phone on you.  It can’t be sitting at home, since the connection between the device and the phone only can span a few meters.  The phone is acting as the conduit to the internet.  For more details on how the Live Tracking piece works, check out my FR620 In-Depth Review, where I cover it in detail.

As part of my final Fenix2 In-Depth Review, I’ll validate how the revamped app works and include details on it there.

Of course, some features don’t require the app at all.  In addition to tracking and uploading of data you also have the ability to get notifications from your mobile phone for various events.  For example, anything that my iPhone sends to the notification center can be sent to the watch.  Be it a new text message notification, or a posting on Facebook.  These are configured through Bluetooth settings menu after pairing the watch via the standard Bluetooth control panel.

Garmin Fenix2 iPhone Pairing Bluetooth

Now, there is one limitation here.  The way the Fenix/Fenix2/Tactix unit is designed, the communications chipset inside of it can only connect over either Bluetooth or ANT+ at one time.  It can’t do both concurrently.  Thus if you enable Bluetooth Smart notifications, you’re effectively disabling ANT+ sensor support (i.e. heart rate straps, cycling sensors, etc…).

Garmin Fenix2 iPhone Pairing Bluetooth ANT+

When you configure notifications you have the option to specify if it’s turned on: All The Time, Only In Activities, Only When Not In Activities, or Off.

Obviously, when you turn it on depends on what you care about.  If you don’t care about ANT+ sensors, then that’s not a big tradeoff.  For me personally, sensors are a big deal, and thus, that matters to me quite a bit and is a tough tradeoff to swallow.

Ultimately, this limitation isn’t something that will be changed through software.  It’s a physical hardware limitation.

Hiking & Navigation:

Garmin Fenix2 Hiking and Navigation Mode

The Fenix2 line carries through all of the existing features of the original Fenix from a navigation and hiking standpoint – nothing has been cut or changed there.

This means you still have the ability to program in waypoints, follow tracks and other magnetic compass driven items.  You can do this via downloading courses from Garmin Connect to the unit, as well as inputting the waypoints directly on the unit.

I’ll cover this section in much more detail in the final review, but by and large nothing has changed in this area (either positive or negative), so to get an understanding of how things work you can hit up my Garmin Tactix or original Garmin Fenix reviews – since the functionality is identical there.  My Tactix review is only a few months old, so things are generally spot-on, whereas the original Fenix review is a bit older and some newer features have since been added.

Garmin VIRB Support:

Garmin Fenix2 VIRB Action Camera Control

Just a quick item to note that like the Fenix and Tactix, the Fenix2 includes the ability to control the Garmin VIRB action camera, both for video, as well as for still photos.  I covered this within my Garmin VIRB In-Depth Review, so you’ll want to swing over to that for more details for now.

Ski/Snowboard Mode:

Garmin Fenix2 Skiing and Snowboarding Mode

I previewed this when it first came out last year, but since then Garmin has been chugging away adding a number of features in this area.  Since skiing wasn’t on my plate the last few weeks, I haven’t had a chance to test it.  Nonetheless, here’s the low-down on the core features, which is known as ‘Ski-Board’ mode in the menu.

Ski Mode Run Detection: Each time you get off the lift and start to ski, it’ll automatically create a new lap within the unit.  In addition, there is a run counter, which shows you how many runs you’ve completed.

3D Speed and Distance: As I covered in my post last year, this mode takes into account the horizontal and vertical components within the speed and distance calculations – basically accounting for the drop in vertical.

Ski Mode Auto Pause: This will automatically pause the time and distance of the track file when you are sitting on a ski lift.

Ski Pages Know When On Lift: While on the lift, the unit will automatically switch to showing you stats about your last run, rather than just stats about the chair lift.

Beyond these core features they’ve also added in more ski-specific data fields, such as total vertical drop and run-specific details around max speed, vertical drop, etc….

As you noticed at the very beginning of this post, the unit includes a fabric extender strap – which is specifically designed to fit over bulkier winter jackets, typically worn while skiing or snowboarding (unless you’re in Dubai of course).

Hopefully I’ll be able to get in some slope time here in the near future to dig into this a bit more before the final in-depth review.

Random notable items that didn’t fit:

Garmin Fenix2 Skiing and Snowboarding ModeGarmin Fenix2 Night Mode

If you’re a previous user of the Fenix/Tactix watch, you may make note of a few little changes on the platform.  Most of these are minor, but definitely worthwhile point out.

1) The Layout Is Different: Astute Fenix/Tactix users will note that the layout of the buttons is different, and thus, so are some navigational aspects within the menus.  I still catch myself up a bit, but it’s not too bad – and aligns more closely with the existing Forerunner lineup than the previous Fenix lineup.

2) You can opt to ‘Resume later’ an activity: This could be useful if you’re on a multi-day hike and want to keep the same track the entire time.  This way you can basically save it, and come back to finish it some other time/day.  This is also useful if the watch happens to run out of juice (or crash), in that the watch will resume the activity (this saved me once already).

3) Custom Sports and Profiles: The only feature that has been ‘reduced’ in the watch is the ‘Profiles’ concept, which allows you to customize and create profiles endlessly.  Now, they’ve shortened it down to a bunch of pre-populated profiles with settings that make sense, as well as three fully custom profiles that you can tweak.  For example, you could make a stand-up paddle boarding profile (SUP), if you’d like.  The default included sport profiles are:

1) XS Ski
2) Ski-board
3) Mountaineer
4) Hike
5) Navigate
6) Trail Run
7) Run
8) Bike
9) Swim > Openwater, Pool
10) Workout
11) Indoor > Run, Bike, Custom, Workout
12) Multisport
13) Custom (1/2/3)

4) The backlight is red: While the backlight on the Tactix was green, the backlight on the Fenix2 is a red color, like the D2 aviation watch.

I’ll continue to add little items in here as I stumble onto them, and of course will include a more comprehensive listing if I find more, as part of the In-Depth Review.

Comparison Tables:

Before we wrap things up I’ve put together the comparison charts of all the features of the Fenix2 and original Fenix, compared to the Garmin FR910XT, and Suunto Ambit 2 (closest competitors).  You can of course create your own comparison tables using this link with any of the products I’ve previously reviewed, such as adding in the new Polar V800, which is Polar’s upcoming tri watch for April.

Function/FeatureGarmin Fenix2/Fenix2 SEGarmin FenixSuunto Ambit2Garmin Forerunner 910XT
Copyright DC Rainmaker - Updated April 29th, 2021 @ 5:06 am New Window
Price$399$299 (on sale)$319$399
Product Announcement DateFeb 20, 2014JUL 10, 2012APR 29, 2013OCT 4, 2011
Actual Availability/Shipping DateMarch 2014AUG 2012May 2013JAN-APR 2012
GPS Recording FunctionalityYesYesYesYes
Data TransferUSB/Bluetooth SmartUSB & Bluetooth SmartUSBANT+ Wireless
WaterproofingYes - 50mYes - 50mYes - 100mYes - 50m
Battery Life (GPS)50 Hours50 hours50 hours20 Hours
Recording Interval1S to Variable1s to variableVariable1s or Smart
AlertsVibrate/Sound/VisualVibrate/Sound/VisualSound/VisualVibrate/Sound/Visual
Backlight GreatnessGreatGreatGreatGreat
Ability to download custom apps to unit/deviceNoNoYesNo
Acts as daily activity monitor (steps, etc...)NoNoNoNo
ConnectivityGarmin Fenix2/Fenix2 SEGarmin FenixSuunto Ambit2Garmin Forerunner 910XT
Bluetooth Smart to Phone UploadingYesYesNoVia Wahoo Fitness Adapter
Phone Notifications to unit (i.e. texts/calls/etc...)YesYesNoNo
Live Tracking (streaming location to website)YesYes (as of Feb 2014)NoNo
Emergency/SOS Message Notification (from watch to contacts)NoNoNoNo
Built-in cellular chip (no phone required)NoNoNoNo
CyclingGarmin Fenix2/Fenix2 SEGarmin FenixSuunto Ambit2Garmin Forerunner 910XT
Designed for cyclingYesYesYesYes
Power Meter CapableYesNoYesYes
Power Meter Configuration/Calibration OptionsYesN/AYesYes
Power Meter TSS/NP/IFYesN/ANoYes
Speed/Cadence Sensor CapableYesYes (full support added Sept 2013)YesYes
RunningGarmin Fenix2/Fenix2 SEGarmin FenixSuunto Ambit2Garmin Forerunner 910XT
Designed for runningYesYesYesYes
Footpod Capable (For treadmills)YesYesYes (internal accelerometer)Yes
Running Dynamics (vertical oscillation, ground contact time, etc...)YesNoNoNo
VO2Max EstimationYesNoYesNo
Race PredictorYesNoNoNo
Recovery AdvisorYesNoYesNo
Run/Walk ModeYes (Added June 13th, 2014)NoNoYes
SwimmingGarmin Fenix2/Fenix2 SEGarmin FenixSuunto Ambit2Garmin Forerunner 910XT
Designed for swimmingYesNoYesYes
Openwater swimming modeYesN/AYesYes
Lap/Indoor Distance TrackingYesN/AYesYes
Record HR underwaterNoNoNoNo
Openwater Metrics (Stroke/etc.)YesN/AYesYes
Indoor Metrics (Stroke/etc.)YesN/AYesYes
Indoor Drill ModeYesN/AYesNo
Indoor auto-pause featureNoN/ANoNo
Change pool sizeYesN/AYesYes
Indoor Min/Max Pool Lengths18m/20y to 150y/mN/A15m/y to 1,200m/y20m/22y to 100y/m
Ability to customize data fieldsYesN/AYesYes
Captures per length data - indoorsYesN/AYesYes
Indoor AlertsYesN/ANoYes
TriathlonGarmin Fenix2/Fenix2 SEGarmin FenixSuunto Ambit2Garmin Forerunner 910XT
Designed for triathlonYesNoYesYes
Multisport modeYesN/AYesYes
WorkoutsGarmin Fenix2/Fenix2 SEGarmin FenixSuunto Ambit2Garmin Forerunner 910XT
Create/Follow custom workoutsYesYes (As of Dec 6, 2013)NoYes
On-unit interval FeatureYesYes (As of Dec 6, 2013)BarelyYes
Training Calendar FunctionalityYes (Added June 13th, 2014)NoNoYes
FunctionsGarmin Fenix2/Fenix2 SEGarmin FenixSuunto Ambit2Garmin Forerunner 910XT
Auto Start/StopYesYesYesYes
Virtual Partner FeatureYesYesNoYes
Virtual Racer FeatureNoNoNoYes
Records PR's - Personal Records (diff than history)NoNoNoNo
Tidal Tables (Tide Information)NoNoNoNo
Weather Display (live data)NoNoNoNo
NavigateGarmin Fenix2/Fenix2 SEGarmin FenixSuunto Ambit2Garmin Forerunner 910XT
Follow GPS Track (Courses/Waypoints)YesYesYesYes
Markers/Waypoint DirectionYesYesYesNo
Routable/Visual Maps (like car GPS)NoNoNoNo
Back to startYesYesYes (added Aug 30, 2013)Yes
Impromptu Round Trip Route CreationNoNoNoNo
Download courses/routes from phone to unitYesYesNoNo
SensorsGarmin Fenix2/Fenix2 SEGarmin FenixSuunto Ambit2Garmin Forerunner 910XT
Altimeter TypeBarometricBarometricBarometric, GPS (FusedAlti)Barometric
Compass TypeMagneticMagneticMagneticGPS
Heart Rate Strap CompatibleYesYesYesYes
ANT+ Heart Rate Strap CapableYesYesYesYes
ANT+ Speed/Cadence CapableYesYesYesYes
ANT+ Footpod CapableYesYesYesYes
ANT+ Power Meter CapableYesNoYesYes
ANT+ Remote ControlNo (can control VIRB though)YesNoNo
ANT+ eBike CompatibilityNoNoNoNo
Shimano Di2 ShiftingNoNoNo
Bluetooth Smart HR Strap CapableNoNoNoNo
Bluetooth Smart Speed/Cadence CapableNoNoNoNo
Bluetooth Smart Footpod CapableNoNoNoNo
Bluetooth Smart Power Meter CapableNoNoNoNo
Temp Recording (internal sensor)YesYesYesNo
Temp Recording (external sensor)YesYesNoNo
SoftwareGarmin Fenix2/Fenix2 SEGarmin FenixSuunto Ambit2Garmin Forerunner 910XT
PC ApplicationGarmin ExpressBasecampMoveslink AgentGTC/ANT Agent
Web ApplicationGarmin ConnectGarmin ConnectMovescountGarmin Connect
Phone AppiOS/AndroidGarmin Basecamp (iOS)Suunto MovescountiOS/Android
Ability to Export SettingsNoYes (profiles XML)Yes (online)No
PurchaseGarmin Fenix2/Fenix2 SEGarmin FenixSuunto Ambit2Garmin Forerunner 910XT
AmazonLinkLinkLinkLink
DCRainmakerGarmin Fenix2/Fenix2 SEGarmin FenixSuunto Ambit2Garmin Forerunner 910XT
Review LinkLinkLinkLinkLink

The tables are updated dynamically and thus if/when things change that’s represented automatically in this section.  And again, remember you can create your own charts easily here with any product you’d like.

My initial thoughts on the unit:

Garmin Fenix2 Firmware Update

Overall, the changes are a really sweet step forward for the Fenix product line.  The team behind the product has continued to evolve the original Fenix unit over the course of the past ~20 months, adding in more features than any other Garmin team I’m aware of (and that’s before today).  Today’s announcements of the Fenix2 make it quite appealing for the triathlete, ultimately putting it in the same camp now as the Ambit2…but cheaper.

There’s a few things that the Fenix2 does that the Ambit2 doesn’t – namely around Running Dynamics and Bluetooth upload/download/Live Tracking support, as well as deeper power meter support.  On the flip side, for those who like extensibility, the Ambit2 includes the Ambit App Zone, which offers tons of bite-sized apps to fill the gaps for various functions.

In many ways though, I do see the Fenix2 as a bit of a Garmin portfolio stop-gap for the season.  After all, it’s effectively taking existing hardware (with some very tiny tweaks) and extending out the functionality to match that of a combined FR910XT and FR620, as best as the existing Fenix hardware platform allows.  And, for the most part, they get about 95-98% of the way there.  Obviously, there’s an absolute crapton of navigation/hiking/skiing/mountain related features not found in the FR910XT/FR620 – so simply looking at combining those two watches isn’t accurate.  And ultimately, there are so many features that prior to today, all those features were its own watch by itself (the original Fenix).

Because the unit I have from a software standpoint isn’t quite done yet (albeit close), I’ve held off on making this any sort of full In-Depth review.  Once the final firmware is buttoned up in the March timeframe, expect a full in-depth review there.  Obviously, as part of that I’ll be focusing on all the usual items, including swim/bike/run accuracy.  Thus, I can’t quite make a final determination or recommendation on the unit until that happens.  Assuming however that everything continues to chug along nicely, then I’d say it makes for a very solid spring contender.

Until then, hopefully this bridges the gap a bit to answer questions.  Thanks for reading!

FAQ’s – Frequently Asked Questions:

Here’s my attempt at answering the most commonly asked questions that I expect to get, or see down below in the comments.  I’ll update this as time goes along.

When’s your Fenix2 In-Depth Review coming out?

Once the final software is available and I’ve been able to cover all the test scenarios (swim/bike/run/hike/etc…).  Currently Garmin is targeting March, thus, I’ll be targeting March.

When will Garmin release the Fenix2, and how much does it cost?

This is currently targeted for “March 2014”, which, could well mean mid-March or March 31st.  Remember that’s the date it’s shipped to retailers, not necessarily the date it’ll end up in your hands.  I’d be highly skeptical of any retailer that’s giving you an exact date.

The cost is $399 for the base unit, and $449 for the unit with the HRM-RUN heart rate strap.  In general, if you plan to buy the HR strap later, you’ll want to buy it upfront, since you’ll save about $30-$40 on the HRM-RUN strap.  Remember that the Running Dynamics pieces only work with the HRM-RUN.

Does the Fenix2 need a footpod for indoor/treadmill use?
No, it has a built-in accelerometer which automatically tracks pace/distance/cadence – and displays/records all those values.  In fact, it’ll also calculate cadence outdoors as well, from just the watch.

But how accurate is that method?
Other units have done this successfully (Bryton Cardio 60, Garmin FR220/FR620, Garmin Fenix/Tactix, TomTom Runner/Multisport, etc…), but it’ll be part of my full in-depth review to show comparisons with traditional sensor data on the same run.  In the case of the original Fenix and FR220/FR620 had mixed results.

How long does the battery last?

The Fenix (and Fenix2) has a few modes.  They range from 1-second capture rates to UltraTrac mode, which reduces the capture time and allows upwards of about 50hours of GPS-on time.  In GPS-off mode (regular watch mode), it can operate for many weeks.  However, in Bluetooth Smart mode the battery is significantly reduced.

Is the unit fully waterproofed?

Yes, it’s waterproofed to 50-meters.

Will the HRM-Run work with other Garmin devices, will they update the Garmin FR910XT?
At present, it only works with the FR620 and Fenix2.  All other units will just see it as a regular ANT+ HR strap without any of the new features.  I suspect over time we’ll see that expand to both other new products as well as other uses, but I do not expect to see it ported to existing older products.  At last discussion there are no plans to add support for it to the FR910XT.

I have a Garmin FR910XT, should I go and get the Fenix2?

Well, it’s probably first important to note that the Fenix2 is made by a different team/organization within Garmin than the Forerunner team.  Like going to the milk aisle vs the cereal aisle at the grocery store, even though they both play together – they’re totally different.  As such, the units have different ‘styles’ to the menu’s and how they operate.  The Fenix2 is really a much more powerful in the advanced user department if you’re navigating, but it’s also a bit more complex to operate than some of Garmin’s Forerunner watches (though, it’s definitely improved from the Fenix/Tactix).  One thing I’d look at is deciding whether or not having concurrent ANT+ and Bluetooth functionality is important to you (i.e. heart rate data while Live Tracking is enabled).

So you’re telling me that the Fenix2 isn’t the long-desired Garmin FR910XT replacement?

Correct.  Don’t expect another triathlon unit this triathlon season from Garmin.

I’m looking at the Ambit 2/2s and the Fenix2, which one should I get?

Well, that’s tough.  They both have very similar feature-sets.  The core differences is that the Ambit 2/2s supports some custom apps being loaded, while the Fenix2 has a bit more functionality when it comes to hiking and sports like skiing.  Further, the Fenix2 has Bluetooth Smart capabilities for Garmin Connect wireless uploads.

Ok, I’m purely a runner, should I get the Fenix2 or the FR620?

If you’re mainly running on pavement, I’d probably go FR620.  If however, you’re running in the woods and doing trail running or cases where a barometric altimeter matters, then going with the Fenix2 makes more sense.  Obviously, if you’re doing any sort of navigation-type scenarios, then go with the Fenix2.

Wait, what about Polar and their upcoming V800?

Polar has a very solid contender coming up, but, since it’s not yet here it’s hard for me to make a clear cut recommendation.  There’s a lot of great looking features there, but there’s an equal number of features that don’t have a specific timetable for implementation (meaning, it could be April, or it could be August or December).  Thus, I’m going to wait for that egg to hatch to decide how it fits into the competitive landscape.

Will the original Fenix see a price drop?

Yes, that should start taking effect today (Feb 20th), depending on which country you’re in.  Further details once the new pricing becomes widely available. [Update: Yes, it’s now $299, $100 off. See this post for more details on the price drop.]

But why haven’t you compared it to the Garmin FR220 or the TomTom Multisport?

Because those cost half as much, end of story.  You can however add them to the comparison charts on the product comparison tool (see sidebar).

Can you invert the screen colors?

No, the unit only offers white text on black background.  There is no way to invert the colors.

Is it harder to read the colors of the screen now?

Actually, no, not really.  It’s simply much harder to photograph them.  A lot harder.  But to the eye, no, I don’t find it really that much different (then again, I’m lucky in that I have really good eyesight).  As a personal preference, I prefer black text on white – but that may simply because I have to take picture of them.  And, on average, it takes a lot more pictures to get a good shot with white on black than black on white.

As for why Garmin made the transition – I’ve gone back and asked for a bit of comment/history there.

Does the Fenix2 connect to Bluetooth Smart sensors?

No.  While it has Bluetooth Smart in it, it’s only being leveraged to connect to the phone, and is not architected to connect to sensors.  It can only connect to ANT+ sensors, which include the following sensor types: ANT+ Cycling Power Meter, ANT+ Heart Rate, ANT+ Cycling Speed/Cadence Combo sensor, ANT+ Cycling Speed-only sensor, ANT+ Cycling Cadence-only sensor, ANT+ Tempe temperature sensor, ANT+ Chirp geocaching sensor, ANT+ Running Footpod, ANT+ enabled VIRB action camera.

 

Found this review useful? Or just want to save a bundle? Here’s how!

Hopefully you found this review useful. At the end of the day, I’m an athlete just like you looking for the most detail possible on a new purchase – so my review is written from the standpoint of how I used the device. The reviews generally take a lot of hours to put together, so it’s a fair bit of work (and labor of love). As you probably noticed by looking below, I also take time to answer all the questions posted in the comments – and there’s quite a bit of detail in there as well.

I’ve partnered with Clever Training to offer all DC Rainmaker readers exclusive benefits on all products purchased. You can read more about the benefits of this partnership here. You can pickup the Fenix2 through Clever Training using the link below. By doing so, you not only support the site (and all the work I do here) – but you also get to enjoy the significant partnership benefits that are just for DC Rainmaker readers. And, since this item is more than $75, you get free US shipping as well.

Garmin Fenix2 – with HRM-RUN & without HRM-RUN

Additionally, you can also use Amazon to purchase the unit (all colors shown after clicking through to the left) or accessories (though, no discount). Or, anything else you pickup on Amazon helps support the site as well (socks, laundry detergent, cowbells). If you’re outside the US, I’ve got links to all of the major individual country Amazon stores on the sidebar towards the top.

As you’ve seen throughout the review there are numerous compatible accessories for the unit. I’ve consolidated them all into the below chart, with additional information (full posts) available on some of the accessories to the far right. Also, everything here is verified by me – so if it’s on the list, you’ll know it’ll work. And as you can see, I mix and match accessories based on compatibility – so if a compatible accessory is available at a lower price below, you can grab that instead.

Product
2014 Summer Recommendations: Running Watches
2014 Summer Recommendations: Triathlon Watches
2014 Winter Recommendations: Running Watches
August 2014 Garmin Sale
Left/Right Capable Bike Computers

Thanks for reading! And as always, feel free to post comments or questions in the comments section below, I’ll be happy to try and answer them as quickly as possible. And lastly, if you felt this review was useful – I always appreciate feedback in the comments below. Thanks!

Finally, I’ve written up a ton of helpful guides around using most of the major fitness devices, which you may find useful in getting started with the devices. These guides are all listed on this page here.

1,112 Comments

  1. J.Griffin

    Well I’ve been holding back in acquiring my FR305 replacement, and so glad I did!!

    Now the $64k question is, aside from the V800 is there any other worthy options coming down the pike, this year or least before summer? I hate too many surprises.

  2. Chris

    Re accelerometer on fenix 2, will it take over if you lose gps signal while running through tall trees or when going through a tunnel?

    • Yes, it converts to that. Seems to have worked fairly well thus far in my tunnels.

    • Frank

      Is that the accelerometer on the fenix2 itself or on the HRM-run pod? Is hrm-run the default first, then watch or vice-versa? wonder which one is more accurate

      Guess, this could get even more confusing if we throw a foot-pod into the mix! I take this auto-switchover from gps does not happen in fenix1 or does it?

    • For pace, it’s within the Fenix2 itself. The HRM-Run is providing cadence (as does the Fenix2), as well as the Running Dynamics.

  3. Steve

    Hi Ray, congratulations for your posts. I’m going to decide between ambit 2 or fenix 2. Is there any possibility in the future to have customized App’s even on fenix 2? Thanks again and have a nice WE!

  4. Mimmo

    Ray, Garmin has posted the Fenix 2 software.

    link to www8.garmin.com…ls.jsp?id=6929

    • It’s just another build. They often post builds as they get close to final release, to enable testers to validate the external update process is working as expected.

  5. Tomer shahar

    Hi,
    Do you know what is the different between the North America and the Europe models?
    Thanks

  6. Mimmo

    In Italy into same shop the Fenix2 is available: link to timesport24.it

    link to lecco.bakeca.it

    • Hmm, I’m reasonably certain they’re mistaken. Since the builds, last I checked around 1AM last night, were still beta.

      It’s one thing to accept orders, but I can’t see a scenario where they actually have units on-hand to give to someone.

    • depi

      Fenix 2 is marked as “prenotabile” on timesport24.it homepage. It means – unfortunately – “You can pre-order it”.

  7. Steve

    Hi Ray, two questions about tech.features: Fenix2 resolution=70×70, what about Ambit2? Ambit2 Minimum distance scale=0,25 Mi, what about Fenix2? Thanks again for your helpful reviews and look forward to read the in-depth review of Fenix2.

  8. Mimmo

    I have read that Suunto will do a great update for Ambit2, Ray do you think that them will can implement smart notification and the other news othat now the fenix2 have? It’s possible with the hardware that Ambit2 have?

  9. Patrick

    Thanks Ray for this interesting pre-review,

    I have a pratical question on fenix 2 and interval training. When you press the “lap” button does the fenix 2 gives you the corresponding time in minutes and seconds –like my old FR305– or does it also display tenths of second (like any stopwatch)

    Thanks in advance for your answer!

    Patrick

  10. Patrick

    seconds and tenths of second?

  11. jay

    can you tell me if i can use the Forerunner Bicycle Mount Kit to mounit it to my bike handlebar so i can have to wear it. thanks

  12. Messy

    Can Fenix2 use like cycle computer simply?
    Sometimes,I want use only as checking speed ,cadence,HR without saving log data.

  13. Jeric

    Is it possible to create a waypoint without physically being at the waypoint’s location? i.e.: enter a LAT/LONG or MGRS on the watch it self to create waypoints on the fly. Or do you need to use the Garmin computer software for that kind of stuff? Thanks

  14. I ordered mine from Garmin on Friday and found out they will give me $99 for the 610. I got the heart rate monitor package so I guess I can also get rid of my foot pod, good to know.

    • Ted W

      Garmin will give $99 for a 610 trade? For the fenix2 preorder? Is $99 only once they receive the 610?

  15. Vincent

    Ray, can you please confirm if the Fenix 2 also provides Tides info and Jumpmaster like on the Tactix? Thank you!

    • Vincent

      Please disregard my prior post, I see it now in your review, sorry….

      Ray, I want to say Thank you for your Excellent in-depth reviews! I recently purchased the Tactix based off of your Reviews and am returning it for the Fenix 2. I’ll miss the green night time display, but I’ve now preordered the Fenix 2 + HRM Run, and cannot wait!!!

      Looking forward to your upcoming in-depth Review of the Fenix 2

  16. jolaca

    For people in Europe, anyone any hint when will we be able to order from amazon?? I don’t mind the specific site: amazon.es amazon.co.uk or amazon.de …Ray will you update your links to amazon then in order to be able to contribute to your site?? Thanks!

    • The links automatically redirect for European folks to the correct store. However, Garmin hasn’t made the Fenix2 yet available to Amazon (nor any of the other international Amazon stores).

  17. Josh

    Ray, do you know if Garmin will make a version with positive display available?
    I don’t really understand why they chose to go with a negative display on a device where you want to get relevant information by a quick glance.

    A negative display is widely considered better looking, but harder to read. (note: hardER, not hard). Maybe there is a reason behind their choice? It would be interesting to hear.

    • Mirek_

      I’m pretty sure you anwered yourself – it’s better looking.
      Had a watch before with a horrible negative display and wouldn’t want to repeat the experience – but Fenix 2 seems ok. I was only considering Tactix before because I didn’t like how Fenix with positive display looked.

    • J.Griffin

      Just curious why negative display would be considered harder to read? I know with some of my analogue watches white on black is way easier than black on white. Even most car odometers nowadays are white on black.

    • I’ve asked for a bit of context on why they selected the inverted display. I definitely don’t expect to see a non-inverted variant.

    • Gunnar

      I had a Suunto Core with inverted display and had to send it back as it was too hard to read (not so with the black on white Core). Of course the fenix2 is a whole different animal from the Core. I really like the inverted display vs the fenix1 black on white display, much better looking (to me).

    • Mirek_

      It’s because the black area drops shadow into text, which is thin. so the text is more like gray, not white. Depends on lighting and angle of view etc. Black text on white doesn’t have this problem because the shadow dropped by the text doesn’t obscure anything – there is enough empty area around the text.

    • Ted W

      What does a negative display look like in the dark. Meaning I Ru in the dark a lot. Sure you can hit a button for backlight, but if you pass a street light or something you can usually read the display. Will that work on negative display

    • There’s a backlight. You can see it in one of the photos above (it’s red).

  18. rabbit

    For your comparison tables:

    meanwhile garmin added “Satellite Pre-Loading via Computer” for the normal/old fenix too (fw 4.11b >)

    regards

    rabbit

  19. Mikael Klingbjer

    Hi, Ray!

    Does the multisport function works like the 910XT/Ambit2: pre-programmed sport sequence (swim-bike-run) and/or manual change of sport, or does it only support pre-programmed sport sequence?

    //Micke

    • You can mix and match any sports you like, custom or standard.

    • Mikael Klingbjer

      Okay, but let me put it this way. Do you need to preprogram the multi-soprt sequence, or can you change sport “on the fly” like you can on the 910XT by holding the Mode-button or holding the Lap-button on the Ambit2?

      /Micke

  20. Gunnar

    Here’s why I just pre ordered the fenix2.

    Garmin has finally provided an everyday watch that ticks my must haves: watch to mobile phone activity upload, power meter support, Tempe sensor support, tides and phone notifications via Bluetooth.

    The big clincher was browsing eBay and seeing the high prices used 910xt’s are selling for. When you add in the DCRainmaker discount at Clevertraining for the fenix2 and then see I can sell my 910xt for pretty close to the price of the fenix2, it was a easy decision.

  21. J.Griffin

    I went ahead & pre-ordered the F2, and I’m not one to that would normally do that. I typically like to at least wait until the release, and enough time to acquire people’s feedback.

    I have a still working FR305, but it is a bit of a brick and time for an update. But I’ll hold on to it as a backup. I passed on the 220 & 620, they appear to be great running watches but I just didn’t felt like it hit enough marks for me. I mostly run, with some biking with plans to do more trail runs/races.

    So I have no real need for the next the perfect next gen Tri watch. Worse case, if doesn’t work out I’ll send it back. I do wish the display was changeable, like the V800 is supposed to be. And wished that Garmin would do that, that would make it even better.

  22. Klaus

    Hi Ray,

    I do running, cycling and gym. Is there a way to track or to insert manually activity from indoor cycling?

    And is such activity or at least cycling activity considered for the recovery time calculation? If I understand it correctly, that one was imported from the 620 which has no cycle mode.

    Thanks a lot for a quick reply.

    Klaus

    • Yes, you can track indoor cycling with a speed/cadence sensor. It has a full-on cycling mode just like the FR910XT.

      On the recovery time, I’ve asked for some clarification there. In the latest build I didn’t see myself getting a recovery time calc, but I need to verify that again. But I asked for clarifications on which sports do get it.

    • Klaus

      Hi Ray,

      Just curious on whether you got some feedback regarding whether all types of sports are included into the recovery time (and also VO2max) calculation.

      Would be for me the main reason to get a Fenix2 instead of the Forerunner 620 since I also use an Edge 810.

      Cheers.

    • Only running right now is being included in those calculations (I did confirm this with the Fenix team).

    • Klaus

      That’s what I thought. It’s simply copied over from the 620. I’ll probably go for the V800 then. Thanks for following up.

  23. Ted W

    Ray how many alert settings does the fenix2 have. I am wondering with the HRM run, if its possible to set hi/low thresholds on cadence. There are times in training I would really like to keep a specific cadence, just like a specific HR range. What other alerts/notifications might be programmable. Thanks

    • You can set run alerts on the following:

      Proximity
      Distance
      Time
      Elevation
      Navigation Arrival
      Speed
      Pace
      Heart Rate
      Cadence
      Battery

      Plus, you can create workouts, which are basically a series of alerts. Typically, I prefer to create workouts.

      Cheers.

    • Ted W

      This is awesome! I am stoked about this watch. The one little nit pick in my mind is the battery life. For 90% of current usage I suspect this is perfect. But I’m starting to get into ultras. 50miler and rim2rim2rim in the fall. We’ll see how those go for now. but would like to have full GPS tracking + HR monitoring, cadence all that.. for the full time frame for those events. Neither should take 20 hours. But I’m sort using that as a reference point. How long can the Fenix2 last with all the ant+ on. Watching for the results of a different reply where it sound you might run some type of test to see..

  24. Mike A

    Ray, how do you activate the backlight on the Fenix 2? Do you short tap the power button, or can you tap the screen like the FR910XT?

    Also, would you mind snapping a shot of what the screen *would* look like if one were to try to use it as an everyday watch? Is it possible that the current beta software doesn’t allow you to have the date/day displayed simultaneously with the time when using it in this fashion?

    Honestly, the possibility of using it as an everyday watch is the only real temptation for me to move from my FR910XT. I travel a bit for work… this would save me the need of packing my the FR for training on the road.

    • Simply short tap the upper left corner – it’s a dedicated light button. You can configure how long the light remains on (including forever).

      I’ll try and get a photo up of the regular day to day watch screen. The beta definitely has it in there, just simply didn’t make my cut of photos I posted (but I do have it).

  25. Mike A

    Btw… for those that have asked about the inverted display, I assume they went with the white text on black background to conserve energy usage (and extend the length between charges) — at least, that was the logic used by Google when they released ICS. The red backlight is a little puzzling though… red font is known for making the eyes strain.

    • Gunnar

      Red light is often used on boats and airplanes to ensure your night vision isn’t compromised.

  26. Stefan

    Ray, is it possible to complete turn off the F2 such as the 910xt to save battery? Or at least shut of the screen? Thanks

    • Yup, simply hold the light button down, you’re then prompted to either ‘Lock’ the screen or ‘Power Off’.

      Though, remember unlike the FR910XT the unit is designed to go upwards of a month with the screen on (and GPS off). Whereas the 910XT will only get about 2-2.5 days in that mode.

    • Ted W

      I am in the habit of powering down my 610 also, since the ant+ sync and just general display juice used up drains the battery. For the F2 (believe you have a typo above with FR910XT) how do you simply turn off GPS and allow the display active to achieve that one month? Thanks!

  27. Mikael Klingbjer

    Okay, but let me put it this way. Do you need to preprogram the multi-sport sequence, or can you change sport “on the fly” like you can on the 910XT by holding the Mode-button or holding the Lap-button on the Ambit2?

    /Micke

  28. Mikael Klingbjer

    Thank you for the answer above, even though I had hoped for an easy way to change sports mode on the fly :-)

    Do you think that the new Garmin Connect site will have a better view for multi sport sessions? Today I can’t get any information of total time/dist., just a bunch of separate training sessions. I really like the Ambit2 and the way Movescount displays multisport sessions, but I’m a ’Garmin guy’, and have all of my previous training logs in Garmin Connect ;-)

    • No, same as before.

      When you think of the new Garmin Connect – don’t think of it as an improvement. Think of it like those Russian Dashcam videos where a person comes out and starts beating on the windows with a baseball bat. Results are similar. Most things are broken, nothing looks better, and the functionality is worse than before.

    • Mikael Klingbjer

      I really love your honesty :-)

      Then It’s really a hard decision, maybe I keep my Ambit2 and wait for the next gen. Fenix/Garmin Connect.

  29. Kevin

    fenix2 vs v800: v800 wins for me!!!

    It now seems clear, Garmin can’t get their act together on both hw & sw quality, as evidenced by high return rate of fenix1 (hw) on their own forums (majority wind up swapping defective watches) and still are plagued by glitchy / buggy sw that now even extends to their website. Has Garmin ever heard of a term called “user experience”? That seems to be their achilles’ heel.

    Polar, on the other hand, seems to have their quality well under control, per Ray’s assessment:

    “Polar tends to have a very solid track record of doing what they say – and doing it in a generally bug-free manner (much better than most others)”

    Polar v800 will be my choice as I want a bug-free watch that just works out of the box, and not spend months as an unpaid beta tester who has spent top dollar for the privilege.

    Sorry, Garmin, there’s way too much competition now for you to afford to continue on this flawed business model unless you aspire to be the next Blackberry. Garmin, get your act together, I’m embarrassed for you.

    • Strange…here’s where things actually stand:

      Garmin HW: Likely days, or at worst weeks away from release
      Polar HW: Polar stated this weekend to some that they’ve now slipped to May

      Garmin SW: New GC ugly, but old GC mostly works
      Polar SW: Site doesn’t exist yet for any V800 features, thus, TBD on whether it works

      Just trying to provide some reality-check clarity. And as always, don’t use the forums as a barometer for anything other than tech support. Be it Apple, Polar or Garmin – happy people never post in company forums. Only people with issues. That’s why they’re there.

    • Kevin

      Thks for the sanity check, Ray. You’re 100% correct on the “happy people” posting aspect. It’s just that I was really set on buying the fenix2, but not willing to be put up with a buggy watch, so based on my research, Garmin appears to have slipped big time on quality, whereas Polar is at opposite extreme.

      I much prefer a heavily delayed quality product, than an on-time piece of junk. Thks for your honesty, it’s rather refreshing! I truly see your blog, as the most authoritative in this area. Thks agan.

    • J.Griffin

      Ray & Kevin– thanks for your valuable input! I too struggled with trying to decide which path to take for my next GPS watch. I don’t believe that either company is w/o some faults. And using forums to make informed decisions can only cloud ones perceptions and process.

      I was pretty much leaning towards the V800, until the F2 hit the arena. I’m willing to give USA Garmin a crack at my money & loyalty. Should they fail then its on to Polar or another company.

    • Harmless Harm

      Based on Ray’s feedback and (enthusiasm of others) I changed to Garmin line (swim, edge 510, forerunner 620), but I wish I could go back in time, then I decide differently.
      Swim is doing good, but both with 510 and 620 I do have issues, 620 already replaced.
      I am spending too much time on debugging features and discussions with Garmin, so I will definitely not go for yet another Garmin.
      Will the other brands do better?, that remains to be seen, I had no problems with Suunto, Cycleops and Polar in the past (pre-GPS era), but after bad experience with Tomtom (2 replacements) Garmin is not doing good either.

    • Kevin

      I think in this new emerging highly competitive gps environment, features-being equivalent, quality will become the new market differentiator as complexity rises and end user experience continues to rise.

      Now that people have been spoiled by unparalleled simplicity in using smartphone apps, not only do they expect their external devices to tether to their central command, but also to be as easy to use as the best designed apps.

      I hate to admit, but as an American, I wanted Garmin quality to be superior than others. But, sadly our values seemed to have flipped to the point that if they can get away by making lower quality watches that bring enough revenue, then why bother spending extra money on improving quality.

      There’s an old Garmin forum thread where an engineer pointed out that Suunto has their factory built right next door to their HQ! Sadly, you’ll never see Garmin doing the same, as the bottom line is all they care about, and if their quality slips but their sales continue to rise, why bother?

    • Carlos

      Like everyone here, I’m still trying to decide between fenix2 and v800. I too experienced what I thought were quirks, but now realize were genuine quality issues.

      Went back to the place I bought/returned my fenix1, and got some interesting feedback, their latest ship date for fenix2 is April 5th and they supposedly expect it to be better quality, as apparently they keep track of reasons for returns and then provide data back to garmin for improvement. Here’s the shocker, fenix1 turned out to be one of their most returned items!

      I don’t want to get anyone in trouble, but suffice to say, this came from one of the largest and best west coast store chains, and don’t know whether the high return rate was only at that one store or throughout.

      The good news is that they were confident that the fenix2 would not have anywhere near the quality issues of fenix1. So, with that in mind, I’m willing to give the fenix2 a chance, and if it turns out to be as quirky as fenix, I’ll return it and get the v800. Case closed.

  30. Sebastian

    Can you comment on how bad the watch can now be read with white on black?

    All video and pics I recon of fenix 2 look less easily readable than the fenix 1.
    I have no clue why they changed it or did not make this an option to choose.

    • Hi Sebastian-

      I’ve added a section in the FAQ’s that covers it. Cheers.

    • J.Griffin

      I’ve read your FAQ. Does the F2 have the ability to adjust the contrast & brightness?

    • Yup, you can adjust both.

    • J.Griffin

      Great & Fantastic!! That should help on getting view on the inverted display.

    • Meredith

      I’m planning on upgrading from old fenix to fenix2 primarily because the V800 can’t touch the non-officially supported fenix maps link to gmaptool.eu

      Do you think white on black + red backlight would render map readability useless? Is it possible for you to include a picture in your next detailed review with and without red backlight?

    • Paul S

      Inside the Garmin map directory that you get from the link you gave is a file called ofusne.typ, which is a Garmin TYP file. This controls the colors that you see on the map. A quick search for “Garmin TYP” turned up lots of links describing the format several tools that are supposed to be able to create them. Since the Fenix, and I assume Fenix 2, only has 4 “colors”, there isn’t that much you can do, but I’d play with the typ file until you find a color choice that works. I’m actually using a modified .typ file on mine that makes trails more prominent and roads much less so, but I don’t remember exactly where I got it. Probably a search of the Garmin forums will turn it up. But what looks good on a Fenix probably won’t on a Fenix 2.

    • Meredith

      Thks Paul, that’s very helpful. If by chance you find the modified typ file, pls post link here, as the trails not being prominent is the biggest downside of using fenix maps.

      My only concern is I’m not a techie, so hopefully I’d be able to understand how to modify that file with zero programming skills.

    • Paul S

      This might be it. I found it on the watchuseek Fenix thread that I have been following, so it’s probably where I found it.

      TYP files are binary files, thought, so they’re not something you can customize without programming skills or a good tool.

    • jolaca

      Meredith! Thanks for that link! I didn’t know about it and it really adds a lot more functionality. Thanks again!

    • Meredith

      Thks again, Paul. Tried it and it works great. BTW, found a couple of tools you might already know for managing BC & fenix maps, Javawa GMTK & Device Mgr. Good stuff.

  31. Messy

    Would you please advice?

    On hiking,generally fenix user should stop GPS at night(sleeping in tent)?
    I want one log data of gps on one hiking.

    I worried the gps data become strange.
    Or Should I pause or stop gps and restart next morning?
    (I should marge two gpx data later if stop)

    And can fenix2 be charged with mobile battery while keep on GPS is active?

    • On the Fenix2, there’s a resume option – which is perfect for this. I haven’t though doubled back to see if it was added in a firmware update on the Fenix1.

      I need to validate if I can still use a solar/mobile battery on the Fenix2, but it did work on the Fenix1. Can’t imagine that changed.

    • Messy

      Thanks for your reply!

      I will purchase Fenix2 and check the resume option and mobile battery.

  32. AJ

    I don’t know much about it, but would the ANT+ iPhone adapter provide some type of workaround for the Fenix 2 being unable to handle Live Tracking and ANT+ at once–could the ANT+ sensor data basically be routed through the iPhone (via Garmin’s app) and then to the Fenix 2 via Bluetooth? It seems like a lot of trouble, but is it even possible for those who must have both?

    • Technically, sure. But honestly the Garmin iPhone adapter and associated Garmin Fit App is like an old ex-girlfriend to Garmin. Not much love there anymore.

    • AJ

      I figured as much since I haven’t seen an updated version for the Lightning port on iPhone 5 and 5S. Thanks.

  33. Someone had asked earlier for a photo of the regular time screen (day to day watch mode). Here ya go: link to dcrainmaker.com

    The seconds are shown along the edge.

    Note that it’s fully customizable. So you can add anything from sunrise/sunset to day of week, style, etc… Really cool customization (just like Fenix1).

    • J.Griffin

      Thanks for the image. Are you saying the seconds are the tick marks along the outer edge of the watch, no actual numbers?

    • Mike A

      Ray… thanks a lot man. Your response and accessibility, particularly considering that blogging isn’t your “job”, is unreal. Cheers, mate.

      At this point, unless your battery test shows that the standby estimates are greatly exaggerated, I think I may be putting my 910 on the open market and picking one of these up.

    • Correct on tick marks. Though, you can certainly configure simple seconds if you’d like to.

  34. Sebastian

    Thank you Ray!

    It is crazy considering how much time I spend reading your stuff. Can’t imagine the time and dedication that goes into making this here.

    At some point you should get an award.
    Not directly because of your reviews. But you are making earth a healthier place. I believe all this tech in sports makes it more enjoyable for more people and you facilitate and multiply that joy by making the right choices.
    Your footprint is quiet large. You can be proud of that.

    • Thanks Sebastian – I appreciate it!

    • +1
      Thanks as usual for the great reviews but extra kudos for the replies and extra work for the comments and updates to FAQ’s (let alone writing more reviews and blogs in the meantime).

      You are a retired millionaire, right!
      Much appreciated, thanks.
      Wiz
      PS I pre-ordered because of the review and comments

  35. Peter T

    I have The garmin tactix and are very interested In The swim profile. Is it possible to load it from The fenix2 on to The tactix?

    • Not at this time. But it’s a question I asked* in a long laundry list of consolidated questions from the 600+ comments, I hope to have it back and hour now…

      (*In terms of how the Tactix feature set fits into things longer term)

  36. frank d

    How is readability when you wear polarized sunglasses?

    Inverted displays have a cool factor, but really seem harder and take more time read, or require a more of dead on view to see properly, as opposed to glancing a regular display at nearly any angle.

  37. Oscar P

    Hey Ray,

    Nice review as usual! One question… I noticed that in your last Barcelona swim data with the Fenix2 your GC is showing strokes per minute just liked you pointed in this review. While on the pool I assume it can also display stokes per length. Is that right?
    Will GC only show strokes per minute on certain watches? i.e. My Garmin Swim has the spm on the watch but this field is not available in GC.
    Thanks!

  38. Jigghead

    Hi Ray,

    I have the 910XT, I’ll never be a pro and may only pull off 1 or so(if I’m lucky) IM, possibly with up to 10 or so 70.3’s in the mix.

    Most of my triathlons are the Xterra types. I am toying with letting my Mrs. have the 910XT and buying a new unit. Would you wait for the 910XT replacement or go straight for the fenix2?

    BTW, I have an Edge 510 for when I ride (MTB & Road) only, so this unit would be for hiking, running, swimming(open water & pool) and multisport or anything else I may do that would require GPS measurement. I also don’t do as much analysis as I possibly should or maybe am likely to do. I do however not wish to have more than two units in my stockpile!

    Thanks for such an informative site, problem is, it makes me want to spend some money.

    • I don’t know what’s in a 910XT replacement, thus, it’s kinda hard to say. I would expect though that it probably follows a blend of the FR620 + the 910XT.

      Ultimately, I generally recommend folks start using devices to train now, and benefiting from that, versus waiting on unknowns.

  39. Gerrard

    Thanks very much for all the useful info. A few questions regarding the amazing product.

    Is that the GPS of Fenix 2 works as best as FR 620 (Including the speed of searching satellite, accuracy, etc.)?

    And is that the general recording interval of FR 620 is better than that of Fenix 2?

    Thanks a lot!

  40. Chris

    How complicated is it to start a run compared to the FR620 or the other Forerunners (405cx)? I like the added features, but don’t want to have to click 10 times to start a run.

    Thanks!

  41. Mimmo

    But it’s true that the Ambit2 works over 24 hours with GPS able and Fenix2 15-16 ??

    Thank you

    • The Ambit2, like the Fenix1/2 actually get pretty similar battery life. In order to get the higher battery times, they have to reduce GPS lock frequency, and thus, in effect – recording rates.

    • Ted W

      both the 610 and the 910 have 1sec recording and “smart recording” (I dont have the 610 in front of me so I forget the exact name). Anyone know the science behind the smart recording. Is it simply every XX seconds. Or something truly more “smart”.

    • In general, it’s every 4-7 seconds. In theory, it’s smart enough to know when you’ve made a turn and will drop a recording point – so that could be as frequent as every 1s (which, occasionally I see). But I’ve also seen it as low as every 15-20s.

  42. Randy

    I think the Fenix2 is the right one for me, am I neglecting anything else?
    I swim, bike, and run very regularly but I’m not really a triathlete. I do them, and will do a few every year but I got started at an older age, kids, and so many other outdoor interests like others in the Seattle area including alpine skiing, skate skiing, backcountry, hiking, and several multi-day alpine climbs annually. I just don’t have the time to commit. Thanks Ray for the great preview and to all those that posted earlier to help me make this rather tedious decision on what to buy. I spent a ridiculous amount of time scouring this site and was just about to purchase the 910 because its one of the few that works for both indoor and outdoor swimming (which is a must-have for me) and the quick release bike mount kit was really appealing. But now the Fenix2 is about to come out. After reading the comments, I’ve realized that what I really need is a multi sport/multifunction “watch” that has most triathlon functionality, as opposed to a very event specific computer. Others tracking me on race day is a non-issue since my wife is also participating and the grandparents are maxed-out taking care of the kids to monitor how I’m doing. While losing the 910 quick release is a bummer, the Garmin bike/watch mount will still work well enough since I’m not counting seconds. Going out in the wilderness for 3-4 days seems to be possible with careful GPS usage while impossible with other many other units. And so many other ways to use it (including telling me the day, date, and time). It looks like something I could wear on my wrist everyday. I really don’t need or want multiple devices, and despite some of the drawbacks, this seems to be the one for me? Is there anything else I need to take a better look at, available in a very soon (for this season)? Thanks again for great review and comments, very helpful.

    • Knut

      For going into the wilderness for 3-4 days I’d pack the Garmin External Battery pack or similar USB battery pack. That’ll enable you to recharge at night or even on the fly negating the need to be ultra careful with GPS usage. link to bit.ly

  43. Just ordered mine. It will *almost* replace my 310XT (second 310XT)… I say *almost* as Garmin dropping the fitness equipment profile means I still want my 310XT to connect to my Concept II rower. Can we please have that profile support back!?!

    Just a question; do we know what the Chirp support is like? What can it do?
    I’d really like to be able to set an autolap every time I come into and leave the proximity of the Chirp. That’ll let me stick a chirp on a heli and then lap when I get in and get out while heli skiing.

    Fingers crossed they ship mine before I leave the US for NZ again later this month.

    • Mark

      That’s a great idea!
      I can see that setting / resetting autolap from a chirp proximity would be super useful …

  44. Peter T

    Hi, Sorry for my poor english I’m from Denmark but hope that you will understand my question. to start out with, thank you for a very good review both on the tactic and on the fenix 2. I bought a tactic after reading you review, but now I see that Garmin has launched the Fenix 2 with swim program. My question is, if it is possible to manually copy the swim profile from the fenix 2 to the tactix, The watches look so similar so why should it not be possible??
    Hope to hear from you soon.

    Best Regards

    Peter T

  45. Marcos Saad

    Hi Ray,

    I have a doubt in regards on-demand vs Always on.
    I know we can configure the setup for “Sensors on demand” and I assume that it only turns on when you have a datapage with a given sensor and access it, is this correct?
    But this is not true with HR or the altimeter , because even without you accessing that page Fênix is records those data which I understand means the sensor are always on, is this correct?
    So, my question is: What does really trigger the on-demand?

    Thank you,

    • Knut

      Marcos, this references to the altimeter and compass when in GPS OFF mode using the fënix as a day to day watch.

    • Marcos Saad

      Hum , now I see! Thank you very much.

      So, being the gps off, even if I leave for instance a HR data page in a WATCH profile, sensors on demand, it will only be “on” if I access the HR page as any other ABC function, is that it?

      At the other hand, when GPS is on all sensors are Always on, no matter if there is or not a datapage of his, right?

      My best regards,

  46. sf

    Great site! Can you tell me if the “default” profiles can be renamed and the fields customized?
    Thanks!

    • You can’t rename the default ones, but you can create up to three profiles and call them whatever you’d like.

      You can customize the fields however on all profiles, to whatever you’d like.

    • Paul S

      Have you tried just diving into the Profiles directory and renaming one or creating a new one? Or isn’t there a Profiles directory any more? I’m curious how they’re managing to put the limits on when there wasn’t one before. The only weird thing I see on my Fenix 1 is a profile (the skiing profile) that I didn’t put there and doesn’t come from a file in the Profiles directory.

    • No more profiles directory.

    • Mateo

      Is there a watch or power saving mode, where you don’t accidentally run out of battery if forget to shut off any of the sensors?

    • Chris

      Oops replied in the wrong place…

      Are fenix2 profiles much more comprehensive and differentiated than the minimally populated ones in fenix1? (like hiking not having elevation pages, etc)

      On fenix1, found myself spending too much time adding relevant pages on different profiles that I felt Garmin should have added as default; as It’s a lot faster/easier to delete pages than to create them from scratch.

      Kinda bummed out that you can’t rename the default profile names, as 3 custom profiles don’t cover all my other frequent sports/activities like Kayaking, Gym/Weightlifting, Flying, Driving, Boating, and I may not care about XS-Ski, etc.

      Do you think they may allow you to change profile names in a future F2 release? (multisport can vary quite a bit for different people)

  47. Nate

    As this can be used as a day-to-day watch, can anybody tell what it’s like when wearing a business shirt (or better yet, link to a picture)? I have a 910XT and that is too bulky to fit under a business shirt.

    • Mike A

      I have the 910XT as well as a Nixon 51-30 tide watch, which would be slightly bigger than the Fenix 2. I don’t wear the 910XT as a watch, but the Nixon is a tight fit to say the least, especially if you prefer to wear your clothes a little more “tailored” to your body. I can get away with it when I’m wearing a suit or jacket. For those times when I’m only wearing a dress shirt, I tend to roll my sleeves up anyway… so it’s a moot point for me personally.

      All that said, this has a much more traditional watch look to it. Even if you wore it just outside your cuff, I don’t think you’ll draw too many looks sans those who think your watch is humongous… to which you reply, “It’s not the size of the watch… it’s how well it records my swim/bike/run splits.”

      And if that doesn’t get them — “But yes… it IS big.”

    • Knut

      For me the fënix is too big to fit under the cuff of a business shirt, just sits below the cuff instead. Never had problems except when wearing a suit, often the cuff will catch on the fënix and not ride down all the way.

  48. Mimmo

    But if the Fenix and fenix 2 have the same hardware can they implement the negative display via software?

    • The screen is primarily the different part (different HW).

    • Mimmo

      What other HW differences are there?

    • Mateo

      Wondering that too, is there faster processor or larger battery? is processor upgraded from F1 to be like 910xt?

    • As noted a few times before, they haven’t clarified what additional changes. However, I don’t see any speed increases in the new unit from a regular Fenix1.

    • Chris

      Official Garmin reply states there is a Bluetooth HW difference between Tactix and Fenix2 that can’t be covered by a SW update:

      “As it turns out, there are some hardware differences that cannot be covered by a software update. The fenix 2 has Bluetooth compatibility, which is not available in the tactix. In how far some of the other features can or will be added is unknown at this time.”

      link to forums.garmin.com

      Clearly, different button placements could be covered by a SW update, but a Bluetooth HW compatibility? Hmm, does Garmin have something up their sleeve?

      Ray, have you heard of this HW difference?

    • The support person is incorrect, it’s the same BT chip, and obviously, the Tactix has BT since folks are using it already with the iOS app.

      I should be getting more clarification tomorrow on the exact (minor) hardware differences between Tactix and Fenix1/2. Inclusive of that, is what the strategy is for the Tactix software-wise.

    • Chris

      I’m intrigued the reply didn’t come from std support but directly from the Fenix team’s email fenix@garmin.com

      I wish it was a different BLE HW which would allow other BLE sensors and simultaneous ANT+ connectivity.

      I’ll keep dreaming that maybe Fenix2 surprises us all, as it stands it’s definitely less capable than V800 in terms of allowing use of future BLE sensors.

    • Yeah, chipset-wise, what it has is definitely a ‘you can’t get there from here’ sort of thing. It was simply the limitation of the chipsets available for ANT+ and BLE at the time the original unit (Fenix1) went out, which these are all based on. Other companies have similar limitations (i.e. Motoactv).

  49. Mimmo

    Called me garmin point of trust, he told me that Garmin has delivered the first 9 pieces of fenix2, next week should have more of 22. I also said me that he already has vivofit available even if Garmin gives not yet available….

  50. Ted W

    Will the Fenix 2 be able to upload to Strava just like the 610/910 will? or will you need to manually update gpx files or something?

    • Yup, you can simply upload straight to Strava using the files on the watch themselves – just like other Garmin devices.

    • Ted W

      Followup. With the BT mobile data upload on the F2. Will it be possibly to update to the strava mobile app (via BT I guess). You indicate upload the file straight to strava, wasnt sure if that was once the file is uploaded from F2 to a PC or something. would like to take a run. Finish it.. and then without waiting to get home to connect to a PC, be able to upload to strava that way. Not even sure how the upload on the PC works to strave, guessing it uses the ant+ drivers (at least for my 610)

    • From a PC, it’s straight to Strava.

      From the phone, it’s to Garmin Connect, and then you can use some of the 3rd party services to get it to Strava, if you want.

      Details here:
      link to dcrainmaker.com

  51. Great preview, Ray! I just pre-ordered the Fenix2 from Clever Training (my 3rd CT purchase since stumbling on to this site)!

    THANK YOU for feeding my addiction to sports technology (which means I should also say thank you for helping me drop 20 lbs in the last year and significantly improving control of my diabetes)!

    A few random questions –

    Is there potential to have my weekly training miles or swim distance displayed on the main clock akin to the Garmin Swim? (I take all the motivation I can get)

    Any updates on Android app functionality? (I feel like I’m rolling the dice on this one and hoping not to get left hanging for a year as TomTom has done to Andoird users) Follow up – will Sportablet work with the Fenix2 in the interim?

    Any news on when Garmin is going to ship to suppliers? (Yes, I’m overly excited)

    Again, thanks for all you do.

    • Thanks Jonathan for the support!

      1) Swim summary metrics: No word on that yet, but I’d agree, that would be cool.
      2) Android: It’ll be there by release, that’s my understanding. Failing that, no later than March 31st, but it really sounded like it was rather close. SportTablet would work, since it’s just a USB mass storage device like the Edge series.
      3) March, no further detail there.

      Cheers.

    • jolaca

      Hi Jonathan!, I am also a Garmin Swim owner and Today I was thinking about the very same thing… it would be great if we could see on Fenix2’s main screen our weekly swim distance, so ++1 on that!! Are you listening GARMIN??? ;-))

    • Marshall

      Hello Ray,

      I can’t believe this is just a “preview,” it’s definitely beyond words. Impressed with your dedication.

      I’ve been considering buying the Fenix 2 not only for trail running but for hiking, which I do a lot. But, have the same concern as J. Stoops, about being left hanging because of being an Android user.

      Took a look at your original Fenix review and liked the whole Basecamp hiking aspect as I could see myself taking advantage of that and the “Adventures” bit. But, when I looked it up at the Garmin site, I was dismayed at only seeing a recently updated Mobile Basecamp for iPhones, but zero for Android users!

      This is a huge red flag for me; if they don’t consider Android users relevant enough to build equivalent apps, then it’s a definite showstopper, especially as I’m planning on buying the Samsung Galaxy S5 and have no plans on buying an iphone.

      Do you know if they are working on Mobile Basecamp version for Android?

    • Paul S

      I’m pretty sure Ray was talking about the desktop Basecamp app there. The iOS Basecamp is a pale imitation. Although you can now look at Adventures in the iOS app, I’m pretty sure you can’t do anything useful with them. The Basecamp desktop app is a good way of planning routes and getting them onto your devices; the Basecamp mobile app, not so much.

      They do have a Garmin Connect mobile app for both iOS and Android.

    • Marshall

      Thks Paul for your clarification. At a minimum I would just want to be able to create several waypoints really quickly from my smartphone and transfer them to watch, as it might be way too time consuming to manually enter say 5-10 waypoints directly on the watch.

      On typical hiking trips, I meet with several friends and we all share what we know about the place on USGS printed maps, like safe water holes, bathrooms, spots where certain animals are “seen,” camp locations, etc.

      The watch would be useless to me if I had to manually input all those waypoints into the fenix right there and then, as it’d be way too time consuming. But, if I could view something like a google maps on my phone and quickly create like 7 waypoints that I’m taking from the printed USGS maps, then it would work perfectly.

      Is this something the Basecamp Mobile can do? If so, and it’s available on Android, I’ll go ahead and place my order now, as that’s exactly what I’m looking for.

      basic stuff on my smartphone that can be quickly/easily transferred to the watch. Like creating

    • Marshall

      Went back to orig Fenix review and saw that the Basecamp app is actually able to do exactly what I would want use it for, but was confused by a couple of things

      #1 What did Ray mean by “it’s actually even easier to do on the phone than on the Basecamp app” – Does it mean that just having a bluetooth connection to my phone allows me to create a waypoint on google maps and transfer it to the fenix without having the Basecamp app? That would be really impressive!

      #2 Do the “hundreds of icons” actually all show up looking the same on the Fenix as they’re shown on the app? That would be awesome as I would just rather see the different icons and not worry about adding names like “parking” if there was a little icon of a car, and makes it a lot quicker, too

      #3 Can I do this on my Android 4.3 Galaxy S3 which does have BT smart 4.0?

    • Paul S

      It’s very easy to create a waypoint on an iPhone with the Basecamp app. It looks as if, though, it uses the phone’s Location Services to locate the waypoint, so it lays down a waypoint at your current location. I don’t see any way to move it. There are hundreds of icons, but remember that Fenix is a 4 “color” devices, so a lot of the icons will be identical on the Fenix. There are enough, though, that many will be distinguishable, so you should be able to do what you want. I only have three waypoints on my Fenix, and one Garmin put there (Garmin headquarters in Kansas), but the house icon for my HOME waypoint looks more or less like a house on the Fenix. I assume that you can then send them to the Fenix (certainly you can with the desktop Basecamp), but my use of Basecamp is limited to occasionally viewing a track from my Fenix, so I don’t know for sure. Ray will probably cover that in his review next week. It’s easy enough to create a waypoint on the Fenix itself as well.

      Whether or not this works when you don’t have a cell signal, I don’t know. Your phone certainly won’t be able to grab maps then.

      I believe Garmin is committed to getting Garmin Connect for Android working properly, but I don’t know about Basecamp.

  52. Jay

    According to amazon. It will be release on March 31. It’s on their website

    • Chris

      Amazon always says worst case – everything I’m seeing says March 15th, but I’m not going to hold my breath.

    • March 15 – woo hoo.
      That means April 15 down here. The sooner the better to start fiddling (and applying updates ;-)

      I am glad I will still have the fr310xt to train with at the same time “in case”.
      I wouldn’t enjoy relying on a brand new Fenix2 as my sole recording device for the first month or so.

    • Vendors have simply been told March, anything else is companies just trying to promise a date they potentially can’t deliver on, in an effort to nab your pre-order.

  53. markusk

    so this thing got the hardware, even quite similar logic (which is used for running dynamics), it’s designed like a watch one might wear all day – but it doesn’t act as an activity tracker? doh!
    sorry garmin, but i’d rather invest in the much smarter atlas than getting this plus a vivofit..

  54. Chris

    Ray, is the Workouts feature significantly more polished on fenix2 than in fenix1?

    On latest fenix1 4.14beta, it’s still really ugly:

    #1 – Wrong Labels displayed: at a minimum, I need to differentiate 3 different workout intervals, namely SLOW, STEADY & FAST; so on GC workouts I was relying on “RECOVERY” to mean Slow, “OTHER” to mean Steady and “INTERVAL” to mean Fast; unfortunately on fenix1 those 3 step types ALL show up as RUN which ruins all my Workouts! Can’t tell when to go slow, steady or fast!

    The most elegant solution would be for them to simply rename those 3 step types in GC as Slow, Steady, and Fast, but at the very least those 3 steps should be displayed on fenix1 just as they do in GC: Recovery, Other & Interval instead of displaying “RUN” for all 3 step types.

    #2 – Ambiguity/Inconsistency: all fenix1 activities display “Locating Satellites” msg to let you know when to start running, but when selecting Workouts, this step is skipped and starts session immediately whether or not it has a satellite fix!

    #3 – Std beep alerts are generally loud enough to be heard on fenix1, except when Workouts is running where a different set of beep sounds that are nowhere near as loud as the std beep alerts, consequently, they can’t be heard!

    I could go on and on with more examples, but essentially it seems like a half-baked workout solution on fenix1 which is better than nothing; however, on the newer fenix2, I would find this completely unacceptable.

    Are these 3 workout problem areas properly resolved on fenix2?

  55. Pavel

    Hi Ray

    is it possible navigate with route and track in same time? It is not possible with fenix 1.

    Thanks
    Pavel

    • David

      Wow, It never crossed my mind this wouldn’t be possible but the more I think about it I come to think it’s probably not that easy to do.

      If it really isn’t is there at least an easy way to pause the tracking and take a look at the navigation?

      Thanks, David.

    • David

      It is indeed possible to track and navigate at the same time- I’ve checked with the Czech Garmin group via Facebook.

  56. Ted W

    Confused by something. In the original fenix review in the battery life segment you wrote about using ultraTrak with default settings, you wrote:

    default UltraTrac settings enabled, which specify on-demand internal sensor usage, GPS data points updating every minute on the display, and other ANT+ sensors types updating constantly (HR and Tempe). This would be in line with that you’d want as an ultra runner, as any less frequency on data sensors like heart rate would be pretty useless

    You had 20hours in that mode. I was under the impression on prior comments above that with UltraTrak mode on, the data sensors (especially the HRM, altitude, etc) were off, and only the GPS was running. Can you clarify?

  57. Olu

    Looks like Garmin is starting to ship units

    link to forums.garmin.com

    Ray, any word on final feature set? I ordered one (through CT thanks!), but will be holding on to my 910xt for a while.

  58. Steve

    THANKS so much for all your reviews (or pre-reviews). They are AWESOME! I sold my 910xt today and pre-ordered the Fenix2 (and Tempe sensor) via Clever Training. Thanks for the discount!!!

  59. Jim Colgate

    Ray, have you tried pairing the MIO Alpha with the Garmin Fenix 2? An even better question is do you have a pre-production version of the Mio Link to try with the Fenix 2? I am envisioning the Mio Link strapped next to the Fenix 2 on the wrist and being able to get HR data while scuba diving. :-)

    • I don’t believe the Mio Link is designed for depth, I think only 1M. In any case, yup, paired them no problem.

    • Mimmo

      But for Mio Aplha you said “I did some of that testing within the Mio Alpha review. While it technically transmitted, I saw too much interference/variability in the HR stability while my actively swimming. While standing still at the wall underwater, it was fine.”
      This is not good….

    • Yes, that’s correct. When you swim – you don’t typically go below 1M (3ft) in depth. When you scuba dive, you’re generally going to hit about 90ft (~30ft) for most divers.

      I’m not sure what’s not good.

    • Mimmo

      I want to use MIO link with the fenix2 on the same wrist but only if the HR is right….do you will do the tests?

    • Hi Mimmo-

      Again (you’ve asked a variation of the same question at least one, if not twice a day for the last week or two), I’ll do a test as part of the Link in-depth review. As I’ve stated previously, I don’t expect the situation to be any better than it was when I first did the test with the Alpha. It’s the same technology, none of which has to do with ANT+ in this case, but simply the optical sensor in the Mio unit and the effect of stroking in the water.

      Cheers.

    • Mimmo

      I’m sorry for the same question

      Good bye

  60. DT

    Ray, thank you for your reviews!! You are amazing!! Quick question, do you think that F2 plus vivofit can replace the polar V800 functionalities (understanding that I am interested in daily tracking as much as my ironman training)?

    • Yes. That combo would more than replace the Polar V800 (or “potential” V800). Im doing the same with my Moto Actv (keeping it just for the step count and as a cycling head unit), but you (and others here) make a good point… why not enable the watch to do it all. With the internal accelerometer there’s no reason it couldn’t have a pedometer mode.

    • Yup, I’d say that that combo is equal to a V800 (well, it exceeds it).

    • DT

      Great, thank you! So I am ordering both with CT. Why do think it exceeds it Ray?

    • DT

      What about the functionality that the V800 is promising to Help you understand your training load and recovery need? How do you avoid double tracking?

  61. Hayley Winder

    Hi Ray
    Have you any idea of the release date in the UK? I’m trying to resist the urge to buy the 620 and hold out for the Fenix 2 to replace my 910xt. I’m a runner at heart so although I love my 910xt, I’m wanting to play with the new run stats that the 620 and the fenix 2 will have. I would miss the quick release tho, so maybe I should keep the 910xt and get a 620 just for my running, as that is my first love.
    Talk about undecided!!!

    • Robin Skibo-Birney

      Hayley,
      I had the same dilemma and opted for the Fenix 2. I think Ray sums it up nicely by saying if you run mainly on roads go for the 620, but if you run trails or have any desire to run ultras (where a battery of >8 hours is all but essential) then go for the Fenix 2.

      The 620 is a fantastic watch if running, and specifically road-running, is your thing. My friend has one and it is ridiculously light and thin, fast and has many a bell and whistle. I’m still conflicted even after placing my order for the F2!

    • Hayley Winder

      Thanks Robin. I am a road runner yes, but plan on making the move into ultras once I’ve done an ironman next year. I am leaning towards the 620 at the moment though.

  62. DT

    Ray, What about the functionality that the V800 is promising to Help you understand your training load and recovery need? How do you avoid double tracking?

  63. Mimmo

    Today I received my garmin fenix2! very beautiful;-)

    • Ted W

      Nice! Now you can Strap on the HRM and hit start.. and let us know how long until the battery dies :) And give us additional data points for battery life with gps+hrm+alt

  64. Hi- have you the owner manual ?

    • Mimmo

      @Philoustetou : Yes I do

      @Ted W : I’m sorry but I haven’t the HRM strap…I have only the watch

  65. Is it à pdf version or paper version ?

    • Mimmo

      paper version, there are five manual (italian and other language).

      I also found a bug with the exercise with time set that not work fine (I reported it to garmin)

    • dave fus

      Did they fix workout issues that were mentioned earlier? like not being able to know when to go steady or fast, unless you bother putting pace info, and the low interval beeps that can’t be heard, etc.. I’m dying to read Ray’s final review, so I can decide whether to order it or not!!! I’m just hoping that it works right out of the box, and not buggy like fenix 1 or else I’ll have to wait even longer for V800 to be released

    • In short, items 1&3 are fixed, 2 is being fixed.

    • Ted W

      And you have reason to suspect that with the few month slippage of the v800 that it would work perfectly right out of the box also? Just wondering where no concern over bugs on that brand new product as well. Surely it will have some growing pains as well..