Today Garmin introduced a full color mapping GPS wrist watch that doubles as a multisport watch – making for the first time they’ve merged the multisport world with their historically separate handheld mapping units. This new unit – the Garmin Epix – employs a touch screen (as well as regular buttons) to allow you to navigate on full color downloadable maps as well as Connect IQ apps. But more importantly to this segment here, it’s a fully functional GPS sport watch containing every single feature of the FR920XT and just announced Fenix3 watches. It’s effectively the ultimate single Garmin GPS device containing everything minus the kitchen sink.
I’ve had some very brief hands-on time with a prototype Epix unit to get the run through on the key features. Expect a much deeper review in a few months once it releases.
(Note: Garmin has also announced other products today including the Garmin Fenix3 GPS watch, the Garmin Vivoactive GPS smartwatch, and the Vivofit2 activity tracker.)
Main Features:
The first thing to understand is that it has every single software function of the Fenix3 (which in turn, has every software function of the Forerunner 920XT). There are some hardware differences though, mostly positive, but one negative (no WiFi). On the positives, first is that the Epix has the larger 1.4” full color touch screen. The main point of this enlarged screen being to display maps like above.
These maps can be purchased as part of an Epix bundle, or downloaded separately from either Garmin.com (paid) or free 3rd party sources (just like the Garmin Edge series). So you definitely aren’t limited to Garmin’s semi-costly maps, which is great news. That moves right into the next piece, which is storage. The unit contains 8GB of storage for maps, which should be plenty for just about any expedition out there. You can’t extend the storage, which is likely due to the increased 50m waterproofing and difficulty they’d have otherwise properly waterproofing a micro-SD card port.
Because the Epix carries with it the expanded navigation feature set of the Fenix3, it has a much higher focus on hiking and related activities. This includes features not found in the base FR920XT, like the Sight ‘N Go capability as well as the TracBack functions. Further, unlike the FR920XT you can control the zoom levels and change it as required on the fly.
For the triathletes in the house though, you weren’t left behind. As noted above, it carries with it all of the triathlon-focused functionality found in the new Fenix3 and the FR920XT (for those who haven’t read the Fenix3 post yet, all you really need to know is that there’s nothing new tri-specific software-wise that’s not in the FR920XT already).
The included multisport functionality means that you can take the watch out into openwater and track swims just as easily as navigating in the offseason in the mountains with Topo maps.
The same goes for activity settings, sensors and profiles – all of that is retained from the FR920XT. While the watch is no doubt bigger (in every way) than the slim and sleek FR920XT, it doesn’t feel much different than the older FR910XT from a size standpoint. So if the FR910XT didn’t bother you, I doubt the Epix will either.
Now, there is one hardware feature that strangely isn’t found in the Epix watch – which is WiFi. Despite being available in all other recent high-end Garmin units, it didn’t make the cut for the Epix. Fear not though, you’ve still got USB as well as Bluetooth Smart. So you can still transfer routes and what-not via your phone, just like with the Fenix series.
And finally, just like every other new Garmin device over about $200 these days, it supports Garmin Connect IQ. This means you can download Garmin Connect IQ apps, watch faces, widgets and data fields to the Epix. There’s already a number of companies (big and small) working on apps, which I’ll dive into in a post later this week.
Now, it’s probably getting a bit confusing with some of these recent models as to how the FR920XT, Fenix3, and Epix all differ. In many ways, they’re basically the same base functionality with the material aspects of the watch and navigation capabilities being the major differences. Here’s a nifty little somewhat over-simplified overview of the differences that I whipped up:
But, for those of you who are more spec oriented, here’s the full rundown of specs. Note that my charts don’t fully cover materials yet (like the glass front, bezel, and band types), so this is more from a technical feature set level. Also note that for the Epix series there are two models. The first is at $549US without detailed maps, and the second is at $599US with the TOPO US 100K maps. Keep in mind though you can easily download free maps from the interwebs, so I wouldn’t let that bother you too much.
| Function/Feature | Garmin Forerunner 920XT | Garmin Fenix3 | Garmin Epix |
|---|
| Copyright DC Rainmaker - Updated April 29th, 2021 @ 4:56 am New Window |
| Price | $249 | $499 | $549 |
| Product Announcement Date | Oct 1st, 2014 | January 5th, 2015 | January 5th, 2015 |
| Actual Availability/Shipping Date | Early Oct 2014 | February 2015 | May 2015 |
| GPS Recording Functionality | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Data Transfer | USB/Bluetooth Smart/WiFi | USB/Bluetooth Smart/WiFi | USB/Bluetooth Smart |
| Waterproofing | Yes - 50m | Yes - 100m | Yes - 50m |
| Battery Life (GPS) | UP TO 40HRS IN GPS | Up to 50hrs in GPS | Up to 50hrs in GPS |
| Recording Interval | 1s or Smart | 1S OR SMART | 1S OR SMART |
| Alerts | Vibrate/Sound/Visual | Vibrate/Sound/Visual | Vibrate/Sound/Visual |
| Backlight Greatness | Great | Great | Great |
| Ability to download custom apps to unit/device | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Acts as daily activity monitor (steps, etc...) | Yes | Yes | Yes |
Music | Garmin Forerunner 920XT | Garmin Fenix3 | Garmin Epix | | Can control phone music | No | Yes | Yes |
| Has music storage and playback | No | No | No |
Connectivity | Garmin Forerunner 920XT | Garmin Fenix3 | Garmin Epix | | Bluetooth Smart to Phone Uploading | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Phone Notifications to unit (i.e. texts/calls/etc...) | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Live Tracking (streaming location to website) | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Emergency/SOS Message Notification (from watch to contacts) | No | No | No |
| Built-in cellular chip (no phone required) | No | No | No |
Cycling | Garmin Forerunner 920XT | Garmin Fenix3 | Garmin Epix | | Designed for cycling | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Power Meter Capable | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Power Meter Configuration/Calibration Options | Yes | Yes | YEs |
| Power Meter TSS/NP/IF | Yes | Yes | YEs |
| Speed/Cadence Sensor Capable | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Strava segments live on device | No | No | No |
Running | Garmin Forerunner 920XT | Garmin Fenix3 | Garmin Epix | | Designed for running | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Footpod Capable (For treadmills) | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Running Dynamics (vertical oscillation, ground contact time, etc...) | With HRM-TRI or HRM-RUN | With HRM-TRI or HRM-RUN | With HRM-TRI or HRM-RUN (Gen1 only, no Gen2 Running Dynamics) |
| VO2Max Estimation | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Race Predictor | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Recovery Advisor | Yes | Yes | YEs |
| Run/Walk Mode | Yes | Yes | Yes |
Swimming | Garmin Forerunner 920XT | Garmin Fenix3 | Garmin Epix | | Designed for swimming | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Openwater swimming mode | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Lap/Indoor Distance Tracking | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Record HR underwater | With HRM-TRI/HRM-SWIM | WITH HRM-TRI/HRM-SWIM | WITH HRM-TRI/HRM-SWIM |
| Openwater Metrics (Stroke/etc.) | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Indoor Metrics (Stroke/etc.) | Yes | YEs | Yes |
| Indoor Drill Mode | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Indoor auto-pause feature | No | No | No |
| Change pool size | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Indoor Min/Max Pool Lengths | 17M/18Y TO 150Y/M | 17M/18Y TO 150Y/M | 17M/18Y TO 150Y/M |
| Ability to customize data fields | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Captures per length data - indoors | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Indoor Alerts | Yes | Yes | Yes |
Triathlon | Garmin Forerunner 920XT | Garmin Fenix3 | Garmin Epix | | Designed for triathlon | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Multisport mode | Yes | Yes | YEs |
Workouts | Garmin Forerunner 920XT | Garmin Fenix3 | Garmin Epix | | Create/Follow custom workouts | Yes | Yes | YEs |
| On-unit interval Feature | Yes | YEs | Yes |
| Training Calendar Functionality | Yes | Yes | Yes |
Functions | Garmin Forerunner 920XT | Garmin Fenix3 | Garmin Epix | | Auto Start/Stop | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Virtual Partner Feature | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Virtual Racer Feature | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Records PR's - Personal Records (diff than history) | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Tidal Tables (Tide Information) | No | No | Only with Garmin Bluechart g2 maps (extra) |
| Weather Display (live data) | Yes | Yes | With Connect IQ |
Navigate | Garmin Forerunner 920XT | Garmin Fenix3 | Garmin Epix | | Follow GPS Track (Courses/Waypoints) | Yes | YEs | Yes |
| Markers/Waypoint Direction | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Routable/Visual Maps (like car GPS) | No | No | Yes |
| Back to start | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Impromptu Round Trip Route Creation | No | No | No |
| Download courses/routes from phone to unit | Yes | Yes | Yes |
Sensors | Garmin Forerunner 920XT | Garmin Fenix3 | Garmin Epix | | Altimeter Type | Barometric | Barometric | Barometric |
| Compass Type | Magnetic | Magnetic | Magnetic |
| Optical Heart Rate Sensor internally | No | No | No |
| Heart Rate Strap Compatible | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| ANT+ Heart Rate Strap Capable | Yes | Yes | YEs |
| ANT+ Speed/Cadence Capable | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| ANT+ Footpod Capable | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| ANT+ Power Meter Capable | Yes | Yes | YEs |
| ANT+ Lighting Control | No | No | No |
| ANT+ Bike Radar Integration | No | No | No |
| ANT+ Trainer Control (FE-C) | No | No | No |
| ANT+ Remote Control | No (can control VIRB though) | No (can control VIRB though) | No (can control VIRB though) |
| ANT+ eBike Compatibility | No | No | No |
| ANT+ Gear Shifting (i.e. SRAM ETAP) | No | | |
| Shimano Di2 Shifting | Yes | Coming in update | No |
| Bluetooth Smart HR Strap Capable | No | No | No |
| Bluetooth Smart Speed/Cadence Capable | No | No | No |
| Bluetooth Smart Footpod Capable | No | No | No |
| Bluetooth Smart Power Meter Capable | No | No | No |
| Temp Recording (internal sensor) | No | Yes | Yes |
| Temp Recording (external sensor) | No | Yes | Yes |
Software | Garmin Forerunner 920XT | Garmin Fenix3 | Garmin Epix | | PC Application | Garmin Express | Garmin Express | Garmin Express |
| Web Application | Garmin Connect | Garmin Connect | Garmin Connect |
| Phone App | iOS/Android/Windows Phone | iOS/Android/Windows Phone | iOS/Android/Windows Phone |
| Ability to Export Settings | No | No | No |
Purchase | Garmin Forerunner 920XT | Garmin Fenix3 | Garmin Epix | | Amazon | Link | Link | Link |
DCRainmaker | Garmin Forerunner 920XT | Garmin Fenix3 | Garmin Epix | | Review Link | Link | Link | Link |
If you’d like to compare in other models – like the now older Fenix2, you can do that within the product comparison tool/calculator over here.
A Small Gallery:
Here’s a handful more photos I have of the device. Keep in mind that at the time I shot these (early January), features and functionality was fairly limited as it was/is still early in the beta cycle. Down the road once I have a final production device I’ll include more photos and videos.
Also note that because it’s beta, things typically change a little bit.
A few initial thoughts:
The strategy that Garmin has started to roll out with is to effectively establish a common base watch (the FR920XT) and then add higher end differentiating levels beyond that (the Fenix3 and Epix). Each higher level encompasses all features of the lower level units. This is somewhat different than the past where separate Garmin divisions would create different offerings that resulted in frustrated consumers having to pick between a fitness watch and an outdoor handheld unit. Now, you can effectively get a single device that contains it all.
Of course, to get it all…you’ll certainly be paying for it. With a starting price at $549US, the Epix certainly isn’t cheap. But it is cheaper than having to buy a FR920XT at $449 and then another navigation device for yet another $300-$400. So I suppose viewed in that lens it’s….a bargain? Now with all these devices the piece I’m actually most excited about is the app component with Connect IQ. Having seen some of the initial apps including a ski resort app (lift/slope/run information), a personal safety app, and a weather app – these 3rd party companies are definitely going in the right direction. And that’s before we get into some of the cooler sensor gathering apps like Moxy and what I suspect we’ll see for other unique sensor types over the next few months.
As noted earlier, the Epix will be available in Q1 2015, though expect that to be as close to the bounds of Q1 as possible (i.e. March). And of course, because my time with the Epix was far more limited than normal – I have no idea if it’ll have any hardware teething issues. With a touch screen display, that’s always a concern – especially since this particular model hasn’t been recycled from any other Garmin product lines yet.
As always – feel free to drop any questions below and I’d be happy to track down the answers. Thanks for reading!
Pre-Orders:
Note: You can pre-order the Epix through Clever Training today, as well as various accessory bands. The units will ship as soon as Garmin starts shipping, which is currently slated for Q1 2015.
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Welcome to CES 2015! Don’t forget to check out all my CES 2015 coverage, as well as my continual updates throughout the day on Twitter. It’s gonna be a crazy busy week!
I hope this doesn’t mean they don’t intend to fix the navigation aspect of the 920xt
Darn it..just bought FR920XT as my own birthday present a month ago.
If Garmin can improve the navigation feature of 920XT it wouldn’t be too bad though.
Again nice review Ray.
Yes, I’m in exactly the same boat. I doubt that Garmin will patch the 920XT navigation, because that would erode sales from the Fenix and Epix. :( I’m wondering if I should sell and upgrade. I will wait for Ray’s full review of the newer models.
Text says no wifi, comparisaon tool say yes for wifi…
Grr…had that on my notepad written here to fix. Fixed!
comparison tool : waterproofing 100m for the F3- is it correct?
Yes, it’s correct. It’s a higher level than other units.
Ok, on my f3 test unit was written 5atm at the backside, perhaps the have changed it…
All semi-recent units have 100m on them.
Wow. Fenix3 is starting to look good. Just got my 920 XT too. How come it can do HR while submerged? Ugh. Must resist temptation….
Answered on a different thread. HR is NOT supported while submerged. Typo.
Weight?
Too bad, no gym epuipment support. Was looking to update my 910, but also dont want to throw out the support for my concept2. (not gonna update the erg). Is there any mac software around that allows you to record ant+ signals (using a garmin usb stick)
There will be some gym equipment support via Connect IQ. I’ll demo that in a post on Wednesday.
Great! Do you have any information about battery life as day-to-day watch and in navigation mode (in relation to the color screen)? Thanks
I am also quite curious about the battery times as a day-to-day watch, maybe even more so for the F3. Any updates on this?
Anyone knows if there will be a quick reelase solution for this?
I might drop my order for a 920.
I’d also like to know if there will be a quick release solution, for this one and/or the Fenix.
At this point there are not plans for a quick release kit for either the Epix or Fenix3, but Garmin is saying they are listening to feedback there.
Thanks for the review! Something that I’ve always wondered about Garmin’s fitness devices that come with navigation (like the Epix and the Edge for example): how do Garmin’s maps compare, to say, Google Maps when it comes to navigation using bicycle trails? Same question for the free online maps you gave instructions on how to use in another post.
I have no doubt that Garmin provides excellent street navigation. I’m really curious about how much it “knows” about bicycle trails.
Really, what I want to know is, if I get an Epix or an Edge with the intent of using it to replace my handlebar mounted iPhone navigation system, am I going to be happy or disappointed?
Thanks, and keep up the good work!
Garmin and Open Street Map / Open Cycle Map on device “navigation” has been a little tough to use if you are particular for an exact type of trail / road. For example if you only want paved bicycle trails, I haven’t successfully achieved this with an Edge. I always end up with random mixes of Paved Trails, Roads, and Unpaved trails.
There are options to avoid highways and avoid unpaved roads, but I don’t believe the routing on the device is ideal for directing you from Point A to Point B.
My personal use was mostly pre-loading a course, “navigating” it and once in awhile using it’s maps to get me back on track… but rarely hopping on my bike and telling it to take me somewhere.
Ed, concerning navigating with a Garmin, I think you’ll find it much better in the long run when compared to an iphone. I’ve used a Garmin 705 since 2009 on my trips abroad and just pick and choose maps for the area I’m visiting through open street maps (see Ray’s post on importing OSM’s to a Garmin device). I get 15 hours of battery life while navigating with the edge 705. Not something that is going to happen with the iphone.
However, I also now carry a 310xt in my back pocket (for wireless uploads of my work outs via iphone and wahoo ANT+ dongle) and a Pebble watch on my wrist for music control and phone message alerts. The Garmin Epix looks like it will streamline my gadgetry to just one device…..nice.
Tim, Gunnar,
Thanks for the info!
Does the epix (or fenix 3) finally restore turn alerts (vibration or audible) as a feature? If so, are these alerts custom or do they only include turns on roads? i.e. Could I feasibly use this watch to avoid bringing paper directions on either a road or a trail run?
Very interested in this too. When trail running I hate to have to look at my wrist all the time ;)
I’ll have to double check that.
But, there is a cool app I’ll show on Wednesday that allows you to get full directional support on trails from a massive database online of trail routes/hikes. Pretty cool.
Ray, I took a look at the komoot app. It looks interesting, but the website and Android app both seem…unfinished. That coupled with the limitations of Connect IQ make me disinclined to trust this or any other app for what I consider fundamental functionality.
I hope that you will look into the support for courses and turn alerts when you do your full review and write up.
I think there is a small but fervent group of users who prefer to be able to keep their paper maps and directions in their pockets, while using their watch for primary run navigation. It seems like courses/routes with turn alerts should be able to be put onto the Fenix3/epix since they work with Basecamp, so that’s a good start at least. Otherwise, the 310XT still manages to be the best running watch at any price, for me. I sure would like all those fancy extra features though…
I tried the iOS app since I can’t use ConnectIQ yet. I live in what they call a beta area (North America), but the maps seemed fine. They show all the trails I know and a few that I didn’t know about. But when creating a tour it’s too fond of out and back. They should improve that into creating loops. Still, looks nice and I may use it.
Turn Alerts is the main thing I was looking for. I already had the 920XT, which has no turn alerts. When the Epix was first announced, I thought to myself “Of course there must be turn alerts. It contains complete street maps after all, doesn’t it? Well, my logic was WRONG!!!! NO TURN ALERTS!!! I’m sending back the Epix, immediately. What is up with Garmin? This should be the easiest thing to add. They put turn-alerts into my now ancient FR610. If my 610 still worked, I’d go back to that.
I found out today that the 920 does support turn alerts with the use of third party tools.
RideWithGPS
JaVaWa RTW tool
Worked out great for a test ride that I did today.
Doesn’t solve your problem. But maybe those tools will allow the Epix to give turn alerts.
Third-party software? You mean “third-party PHONE-software,” no?? The point is that I want to be able to use the watch by itself. Lugging around a phone is not my idea of fun when I’m running. And, if one is going to lug around a phone anyway, what’s really the point of the watch? The phone can monitor most of the same metrics, only more accurately. I think most of us are waiting for this Connect IQ Komoot app to materialize, but it has been so long in coming that as of this moment lthis seems to more of a pipe dream than anything else. Hey, if you do find third-party software that can be installed on the watch, please let me know.
No, perhaps I wasn’t sure of your expectations.
Since the 920XT has no maps, the only way to get turn alerts is to load a course. To create that course, you can use Garmin Connect (no turn alerts), or you can use RideWithGPS.com to create a .TCX file which will have turn alert data in it. Then you can use JaVaWa RTWtool to convert the .TCX file to a .FIT file which you can load directly into a 920XT, and get turn alerts.
I assume you could do the same thing on the Epix, but I don’t know. Obviously it is not as good as having the Epix do the routing and generate its own turn alerts.
Thanks for the instructions. I will give it a try. It’s a complicated process, but certainly the process is worth it for the added functionality. And, yes, I agree, the Epix most likely will work in the same way. But, if I can get my 920XT to perform the task, then the Epix for me will be superfluous. I’ll send it back and save quite a bit of change and bulk. The watch is quite large. Tolerable, but large. Thanks again. I’ll let you know how it turns out.
Can the activity tracking stuff be turned off? I’ll have one of these on my wrist next winter, but I have no interest in step counting and would rather not have it bother me if it doesn’t think I’ve been moving enough.
Paul
On the 920xt you can turn off activity tracking. It seems the Epix and Fenix 3 are built on the same software as the 920xt so it would be logical to assume you can turn it off on these two units too.
Good, thanks.
Wow, the ultimate sports watch! My only concern is whether ConnectIQ will be able to attract the right developer community, compared to the Apple and Android developer communities.
I understood that the Fenix2 had a limitation in multisport mode of only supporting outdoor/GPS based swims and not pool swims(I could be wrong there). Do these 2 new watches, EPIX or Fenix3, have this limitation or are they exactly like the 920XT where you can put together your own activity profile with pool or outdoor based swimming included?
Both of these are exactly like the FR920XT and support indoor pool swims as part of multisport mode.
Shame that early 920xt buyers were unaware at the time that they were buying a base model from a range. If anything we felt we were very much getting the top of the range (of the triathlon-oriented product line) flagship model. Some would be happy but I bet there are a lot like me who will be saying “damn it!” right now. It is not that I am unhappy with the 920 but would have probably thrown a few more bucks (and found a way to explain it to my wife) for the extra features. Oh well…
Agree… I love everything about my 920xt, but I would’ve at least considered the Epix. I still use an older Edge 500 on my bike for outdoor rides to get simple metrics (while the 920xt stays on my wrist to record everything), and when previewing a race course, I still take a turn-by-turn printout with me. I just don’t need turn-by-turn nav frequently enough to justify buying a more robust bike computer for $500+. However, for $100 more than what I paid for the 920xt to get mapping functionality? That’s a much more compelling argument…
I don’t know about following a route off a watch. My first Garmin product was the Edge 1000. Naively i thought it would be similar to the Tomtom in my car.
Very steep learning curve and a LOT of time invested in plotting routes to follow in Basecamp and Connect. Also learning the inherent limitations of the whole system and how this might cause routing problems and the workarounds, including the device settings to have.
I’ve used my 1000 often when hiking and am considering buying the £300 OS mapping card 1:25k for the UK. In bad weather with rain on the screen and me wearing gloves, using the touchscreen is sometimes frustrating, it may lock or not respond. Don’t get me wrong, i do love my 1000, what i am saying is ‘would i be able to replace it with a watch sized screen’ i don’t think so.
Does anyone know if the HRM strap is the same as say the one from the 620? Wouldn’t mind not having to buy a new HRM.
Yes, the same.
Oh, and the poor Leikr watch buyers (if there are any….)
didn’t knew that. thx. based on a first look at it, I don’t know if garmin has the edge (!), though.
Ordered my Fenix 3 Sapphire with metal band. Looking forward to it!
Garmin why no 24/7 HR monitoring???? Accurate of course : ) Would be the ultimate, all around, do everything but cook your food for you watch, sigh. Still waiting for this elusive combination, sigh again.
Darn, waiting for my CT VIP email so I can preorder this beauty….
Ray – any chance the Epix band fits on the 920xt?
Does it pinch zoom and give vibrations for turns like an edge? I am looking for something for running where i can change course and explore but know where I am and how to get home
The epix looks very nice, but I’m concerned about one thing: the lack of wifi. Assuming I head out for a weekend of hiking (I live in Switzerland, it’s what people here do on Sunday’s), and I don’t bring my USB cord but do bring a laptop or something capable of transferring to the unit, how long might it take to transfer a map of any considerable size to the unit?
Does anyone have an off-the-cuff estimate for transfer speeds over BLE (I’m assuming that USB is quick, hopefully I’m right)?
BLE is slow! Not sure if the same as with my android wear, but moving over 1gb music via BLTE takes almost 1.5-2 hours
– Greg
I don’t think there’s going to be an option to transfer maps via BLE anyway, just USB (for the reasons noted above about being incredibly slow).
The USB would be the fast way to download the maps. That’s how it’s done on the Edge computers.
Come on! There are USB cords of 10cm or so, not speaking about its weight advantage vs that of the lightest laptop.
as someone who typically likes to get the latest and greatest in technology, I’m struggling to understand why I would want to return my 920 for a unit that is not only thicker, but also substantially heavier, and costs more. I do think that the maps are cool and being able to see the weather is cool, but as someone who is using the device almost strictly for road racing, I think the 920 is about perfect for me. I had a fenix 2 very briefly sometime ago and found the weight and thickness to just be way too much, and found the plethora of problems with the 620 that many others did to make the 920 a justified upgrade. I am still within my window to return the 920, but in all honesty the light weight is really one of my favorite features. Because I have young children, I am always forced to run with my iPhone 6 in case schools or my wife need to reach me. I am more than happy to hear opinions of others as to why it would make sense to return the 920 and go for the Epix. I do agree that the plastic of the 920 is a downfall of the unit, and I really would have loved a unit that was a solid color, but I don’t know that I’m willing to sacrifice size to get that.
Seems to be only worth swopping for this if the extra features are of interest and the extra weight (albeit not that much it seems) is not an issue. From what you have said then seems no. I quite like the idea of an Epix for the odd run I do where I like to explore a bit and/or am somewhere new. Then again my phone does maps and probably better given the bigger screen and internet access (well in some places) but it’s a pain to stop and get it out of my back pocket and then hard to run and hold it. Think will wait for Ray’s more detailed review. Also buying Garmin maps isn’t generally that cheap. As a UK user will need to check prices for OS maps especially as I already have a full set from Memory Map for my phone/iPad/laptop.
For some sports the difference in thickness would indeed be very noticable. I do a lot of kayaking, SUP and other watersports. Thicker watches tend to scratch and be scratched when moving boats and boards around. For swimming, if you’re in the pool or crowded race then thicker watches tend to hit other swimmers etc. Between thickness and wifi I would be incline to prefer the 920XT over the Epix, and I had actually bought it, I would be glad I had.
The Fenix3 / Epix does have Ocean and hunting data, haven’t found it useful yet, but haven’t really tried either.
Very interesting that the Epix post has ~30 comment and the Fenix3 has ~150… Wonder how closely comments reflect sales ect?!
Baring memory size is there any reason Connect IQ couldn’t add the mapping and navigation functions of the Epix to the Fenix 3 and 920xt?!
Any word on when IQ App Store will land? Looking forward to seeing apps and new watch faces on the 920;-)
I suspect it’s actually more just a case of me having a much stronger triathlon follower/reader base than hiking base.
For mapping on the FR920XT and Fenix3, it’s primarily lack of processing power for maps.
Connect IQ rolled out data fields and watch faces as of this morning, getting exact date for apps.
When you say rolled out Connect IQ do you mean to the public? If so how do we access them?
Looks like we go to link to apps.garmin.com and wait for content which I assume will arrive shortly from third party developers :)
The release notes for the latest Garmin Express, released (at least for OS X) yesterday, says “• Added Connect IQ Store support”. So it’s possible everything flows through Express, although I have no way of trying at the moment since I don’t have a Connect IQ device.
I just tried and Express now handles the link from the app store but the sync errors on app install since presumably there is a related firmware. I don’t want to use the beta stuff so will have to wait for the release.
For what it’s worth: I’m a hiker, the only time you’ll catch me running is during the zombie apocalypse, and I’m deciding which Fenix 3 to order.
The Epix maps aren’t going to be very useful for hiking. Either you’re on trails which are usually very easy to follow, or you’re leaving the trail and need a quality topo map (on paper so it won’t crash and the battery won’t die) and compass. Hand-held GPS units are somewhat useful but have much larger screens than the Epix so can show more detail about the surrounding area.
Plus the F3 is pretty and the Epix is something only a mother could love.
And the price difference between a Fenix 3 and the Epix would be quite a large chunk of the price of something like an Etrex 20 if you wanted a mapping GPS.
Ray – how was the scrolling on the map, fluid or laggy? Also, does it support pinch to zoom?
It’s honestly a bit too beta to tell.
When garmin does new things with devices it usually takes them about 6 months (sometimes more) to fix or add what was initially promised. So, if launch is not delayed probably not worth buying until september or so. Hope i’m wrong
I have the Fenix 2 and it’s not possible to use an ANT+ device and Bluetooth connectivity at the same time. For example it’s not possible to use a heart rate strap and get phone notifications/use Live Tracking at the same time. This is because of limitaitions to the chip in Fenix 2.
Do you know if this is possible with Fenix 3 or Epix?
Yes, allows concurrent use on both Fenix3 and Epix.
You can do concurrent on the 920 also, correct?
Yes, I do this regularly. It was a key point in getting the 920xt.
What is the actual resolution/dpi of the Epix “high res” screen? Are they coming out with something competitive with the 2″ 480×360 you could get previously from a Samsung ‘Gear S’ smartwatch?
From the Garmin site:
Display resolution, WxH 205 x 148 pixels; transflective MIP color
205 x 148 is sufficient for that size screen and it’s transreflective. Garmin is not Samsung.
Great news! However, I hope Garmin will introduce their next lineup all at once, and not months apart (e.g. the 920xt). Potential customers could then make better decisions.
I think the challenge there is just the logistics of it. While some might say that Apple and others do that – it’s not entirely true, Samsung for example has sprinkled watches seemingly every quarter this year.
is the “stop activity” hardware bug still here if you’re charging the device (with some external battery) while hiking or running a trail ?
same question with “display turned off while charging during an activity” ?
that is (was ?) a huge turn down in garmins
will also wait to see how screen behave in full summer sun.
But I’m glad I didn’t go into 920.
What about battery life, how long will it run in “normal” gps mode?
What am I missing?
What can the the 920xt do that this watch can’t?
Try Ray’s comparison tool and you can compare the different features of the watches.
Fenix 3 looks great, Epix looks like a cheap Casio watch from the 80s.
Agree. Silly that the most expensive product is not the best looking one. without knowing the specs anyone would say F3 was the top of the range.
I will buy/use the epix because of the funcionality, not because of the look…
I wish garmin would concentrate on making these smaller and improved – apple can cram so much into such small places. Why cant they make a base model and add premium features rather than having all the various confusing separate models
Apparently Apple has not managed to squeeze in a GPS to their watch. Go figure…
Apple also has the advantage of being able to pressure other companies significantly with far higher sale volumes. That said, outside of the Apple/Samsung/Sony’s of the world, Garmin is pretty much as big as it gets in Fitness – hence why you see them pushing the boundaries more than others when it comes to fitting stuff hardware wise.
Done! just preordered one via CT! Thanks Ray!
#melikeshinythings
BTW any idea if it allows charging during an activity like the F3?
Comparing spec sheets, there is virtually no difference in models aside from looks.
Umm..there’s a fair bit of difference around navigation and maps.
The million dollar questions is: how’s the navigation experience? Is the screen resolution high enough? Do the maps flow well on the screen? Is the waypoint navigation good?
If all these things work well, this is the dream watch that I’ve always wanted!
Am I the only one who sets constantly new running routes and doesn’t know whether to turn right or left at intersections and must stop to check my phone to see where I am?
What do you think Ray, has Garmin rushed wrist navigation and made just another “Samsung” disappointing watch or this time it really works?
Thanks!
This isn’t so much a new thing to be honest for Garmin, it’s just a new form factor. They’ve been doing handheld navigation for years, so this is mostly a case of shrinking it down considerably.
With 8 gb of space and bluetooth that can work at the same time as ant+, is there any reason an app couldn’t be developed for music on the Epix? 8gb was all the Motoactv needed for music and maps. Really, 1gb is plenty for a few hours of music and 2 gb will get you plenty of maps as well leaving more for apps, etc.
I’ve been following along the trials and tribulations of early MonkeyC (Garmin’s app language) developers in the forums and I don’t think it’s up to that yet. Music files have to be decoded, and there’s no hardware audio chip in the Epix for that. So it’d have to be done in software. I suppose it’s technically possible, but don’t count on it. Better to just carry a phone or an iPod along if you want music, since they’re already designed for it.
As Paul said, there’s no way to listen to said music on Epix.
That said, all three devices – Epix, Fenix3 and Vivoactive – do support music control of your phone.
Is Fenix 3 in any way better (or better choice)?
The Fenix 3 is only better in looks (estetic view). From what I understand the 3 watches 920xt, fenix3 and epix are all in the same line where the 920 is the most basic, the fenix3 adds some extra’s and the epix adds all of the extra’s of the fenix3 and then some more (mainly the ability to use actual maps)
The F3 does have WiFi, whereas Epix doesn’t. But otherwise, no.
Hmm I am in trouble now wanted two buy the 920 but did not like the colors so I was waiting for other colers but now should I go for the Fenix 3 or the epix
Are they maps for Brazil available?
link to garmin.com
Must be the ugliest looking watch Garmin has ever produced. This is the watch where wlan would make sense, but no. Tiny screen compared to the watch form factor. They should have used the development effort spent on this to something meaningful like new HR belt with HR under water or wireless charging or ultra-running easy plug&charge battery pack. If I would need map navigation, a would want a bit larger screen. This is a compromise.
I agree with you, this looks like a 90s Casio water and the bezel is much too huge. The Epix 2 will probably be out in 2015 and put these issues right. It doesn’t make sense that the F3 gets wifi and this doesn’t plus that the F3 is much more handsome.
You guys it’s not what’s on the outside where true beauty is found its what’s on the inside.
You guys it’s not what’s on the outside where true beauty is found its what’s on the inside.
I think the pictures make it look uglier than it really is. I’ll try and find a way to make it look prettier in future photos.
I personally like the rugged industrial design of the Garmin Epix. Of course, functionality is paramount.
I totally agree!
Add media player, decent working built in heart rate monitor and apple design(and logo) and we ‘ve got “the next big thing”.
Hi! Can I use Garmin epix for Geocaching? :) and does it work well?
Why not? It says it can. And who knows how well it will work, it’s not out yet.
… I did geocaching with my FR305 … so basically you can use any garmin gps device for geocaching that lets you store a waypoint and navigate to it.
I assume that the worldwide map in included when you get the USA 100k map edition. Is that correct?
Correct. Of course, the worldwide basemap has the navigational usefulness of a piece of chewed gum on the sidewalk.
This is the watch evolution/revolution I was always hoping for after the first Fenix. Time to start saving my pennies.
Another Q&A for those that had the F2 and now have the 920xt. Earlier forerunner version 405/610 etc and IMHO even the F2 are slow to respond in the very cold weather. It seems more than just slow screen refresh. button press contacts and overall operation seems quite delayed in the earlier forerunners and also at times on the F2. How is it on the 920xt? I would then speculate the F3 would not be any worse than the 920xt in very cold (single digits or below zero) temperatures.
Can’t say have noticed any difference on the 920 in this regard. In the UK in recent weeks “very cold” is about 0 deg C however.
I have been using the 920xt for several runs in cold weather (minus 5 or so) I have not noticed any problems with the watch. But on the other hand: I mostly run, and sometime look at currently heart rate and do not scroll around on the watch while running. When stopping, saving and looking everything seems to be responding like normal.
I wonder if the display realy is big enough to make a detailed map useful for serious outdoor navigation and if the watch will be fast enough with the detailed maps. If not i stick to my Oregon 550t for outdoor navigation purpous and keep my 920 for my training. But I guess Ray will review those thing i his deep review of the watch.
I’m wondering the same thing for on bike navigation following a route. I currently use a Garmin edge 705 and not sure I would want the screen any smaller for following a new route while riding.
For fast biking, I think the screen i way to small. But maybe not for hiking/trekking?
I’d like to see maximum zoom scale in reviews. The issue is that if you are using a watch for trail running, something like the Sunnto Ambit2 only has a zoom in to 0.1 miles. That sounds pretty good until you figure out that that is 528 ft. The arrow can cover up a whole lot of land at 528 ft, e.g. if you have two lefts within a short space it can be hard to tell which to take. The Garmin 305 on the other hand zoomed in to 10 ft. I’m hoping the Epix is more in that ballpark.
Hi Ray, does the navigation support turn-by-turn direction if I suddenly crave for a cupcake from a famous cupcakery while travelling in Paris by just looking up POIs on the map from Epix and away we go? Fenix/Fenix2 just show straight line to the destination.
It depands, if you use a routable or an non routable map.
That’s not why Fenix/Fenix 2 only do direct line navigation. First, they don’t officially support maps. Second, even if you could get a routable map on one, I’ll bet the device itself can’t use the metadata that allows routing along roads, even if it’s there. It’s all waypoint to waypoint straight line navigation on a Fenix.
So will the Epix be a wrist-Nuvi? Ray’s table above says it is, and I assume he got that info from the Garmin reps. The Epix page at buy.gamin.com is a little more coy and doesn’t come right out and say it. On the other hand, they do offer pre-installed Topo US 100 k maps, and I believe those are routable (certainly the 24k versions are).
This might be a remedial question but for recording interval what is the difference between 1S or smart and 1S to variable? Thanks!
I can’t say for sure, since it’s not out yet and the manual isn’t available yet, but it may mean that it does what the original Fenix does. On the Fenix, you can set any fixed time or distance interval you want to record track points, down to 1 s or 0.01 mile.
“Smart” usually means that the device itself decides when to record a track point depending on how curvy the track is. So on a straight road it may decide that every 5 seconds is good enough, while around a curve it may go back to 1 s. The recording interval is variable throughout the track.
Does the touch screen only allow navigation of the maps feature? Any idea if touch capability can be turned off? I’m a little weary of having a touch screen while I’m riding/running and accidentally start clicking things I didn’t mean to. I can see the usefulness when out hiking or exploring, just not during a more active activity. Also, I wonder how well the screen works if it gets wet?
I’m hoping this is similar touchscreen to the Oregon 600 series (just smaller obviously). I’ve been pretty happy with the touchscreen performance on my Oregon 650, works well enough when wet (ie: significantly better than my iPhone) and does work with gloves.
Garmin touchscreen handhelds (I’ve owned 2 different oregon devices) have the ability to lock the screen to input – I would sure hope they bring that feature over to the epix – it is a good option to have.
Another asking if this will charge on the go and allow you to use the training/navigation functions while charging. Since it has the fenix3 functions I assume it will…any way to find out for sure?
i feel like garmin betrayed already the 920xt. it is still not available from lots of sellers on amazon and yet to be received in many countries. i myself have been waiting it to become available from my trusted sellers. and i know lots of guys who have been waiting for it. but now the fenix3 and the epix, i think they’ll have a huge impact on the sales of the 920xt. i have changed my mind and decided to continue with my old pal 310xt till the epix become available.
I see the Epix does support Running Dynamics, but that there’s no bundle with Garmin’s HRM – and the standalone HRM price is apparently $50 higher than the bundled pricing with the 920XT and Fenix 3. What am I missing?
Not missing anything. Just them raising prices a fair bit.
What I mean is, the HRM is still $50 as part of a bundle (same price as before), but it’s apparently $100 standalone – and it seems like there’s no bundle available for Garmin’s top-of-the-line device. Do you have any idea if Garmin will eventually offer an HRM bundle with the Epix, or will that essentially represent a $50 tax for Epix buyers who actually want Garmin’s HRM?
To add fuel to this (my personal ;) ) fire, I’ve seen several high-profile sources (like PC World) report from Garmin’s CES announcements that the HRM-Run can be paired with any of the three new devices (Vivoactive, Fenix 3, Epix) for $50 extra. I’m trying to discern sure whether this is sloppy/inaccurate reporting, or indications of a bundle that just hasn’t been announced yet (possibly due to the later anticipated ship date for Epix).
There’s no current plans for an Epix bundle (at least when I reconfirmed again yesterday). Obviously, things could change by time it hits products, as that would be a trivial change from a SKU standpoint.
I do agree that it’s odd to sorta ‘punish’ both your high end purchasers (Epix & F3 Sapphire) by charging $100 extra vs $50 extra normally needed for the HR bundle.
Thanks, Ray – as always, great work. That’s exactly the perspective I was looking for. At this point, I’ll probably just go with a Fenix 3 bundle, anyway, rather than wait an extra month or so on the Epix. Even tho I want the hiking and land navigation features, I’m still a big fan of physical maps. ;)
Hi Ray,
Awesome as always! Is this true that the Epix has less swimming features than the 920XT?
3:22 – link to m.youtube.com
What other 920XT features, aside from WIFI, would it not have? Would it also be true to the F3?
No, it’s not true, there’s no differences there – it’s the exact same codebase. Another error in his video as well is his comments on waterproof ratings, which aren’t correct. Also, temperature measurement that he noted is a wash, it’ll be taken care of soon via Connect IQ.
Hi Ray,
Do we know if the these three models still have the same GPS chipset like the Fenix2, the MediaTek chipset ?
Fenix 2 is probabely the worst and most expensive watch I have bought ;o(
And I will never buy watch with this chipset anymore.
The Epix looks very intereting for trail !
Waiting on the Epix review :D
It won’t do as the new one also uses GLONASS so will be very quick to lock with much better accuracy.
Hi Ray
I don´t know how the payment works. Does Garmin make you pay a monthly fee for the maps or is it a one time purchase?
One time purchase (point in time for the maps), for most map sets. For the Birdseye maps it’s an annual fee.
Again though, tons of free maps out there that in many cases are just as good as Garmin’s paid ones.
Hi Ray,
Thanks a lot for your good Job again
May I ask you please:
1. Has Epix Metronom?
2. Does touch works like in FR 620 ?
(meaning, can I scroll through whole menu only using touch or is thre a combination of thouch and button push ?
3. Nummers and letters on display of Epix seem more grey than black and not so clear and good readable as
on FR 920 display. Right?
Thanks a lot in advance for your answer!
Herzallerliebst! Naomi
Pretty close to my ideal watch since it is multi sport, could handle some maps for hiking and emergency navigation.
Just needs a little bit more smarts and/or apps to deal with weather, local tides, weather alerts for wind & waves, severe weather alerts.
I’m assuming the data sets for those would be small enough that bluetooth can sync / push it?
But then will the Connect IQ app support that?
The current available apps & faces don’t inspire, but I hope that will change soon, as more stuff gets added or ported.
Also, I looked at the rip curl gps surf watch, but they never even responded back to me with regards to multi-sport (wind, kite, sup, etc) vs pure wave surfing.
Can’t wait for the review.
Please some more photos from the epix. I`d like to see a photo from the backside,too
Any idea if the epix might support at least basic street routing and read POIs, assuming that specific Openstreet maps, or city navigator maps are installed?, Garmin feature page only mentions: Track Navigation – Navigation assistance for loaded or saved tracks. That would be a missing feature for someone coming from an outdoor type unit such as an oregon, but willing to sacrifice on screen size…
Are opensea maps supported as well?
Hi Ray and all good people right here!
Good job Ray once again for this “quick” review. Have you been able to spend more time with it?
I’m currently possessing a Polar V800 (who is on sale on Ebay) and a new Garmin 920xt.
I currencly use it for multi-sport (Triathlon) and many others sports like spinning class and Winter Pentathlon (bike, run, X-Ski, Skating and Snowshoes running) here in Québec city.
I’ve also à Outdoor company witch I frequenly use my iphone for traking and maping. But with the low battery efficacity on the iphone, I’m thinking to switch to the new Garmin Epix. Will it be a good move? I need to be able to track some waypoint, see hike path, and download/upload waypoint, and for sure, all the triathlon fonction that the 920 already have and who are prensent in Epix.
Thx for your help,
Steph
The epix also supports blue-chart g2 maps – this maps includes, as far as I know, tides, so the epix should support tides?
And btw: which fw version is running on the epix?
Epix is not planned to support tides.
As for firmware…it changes roughly every 2 days. ;)
Garmin confirmed that the Epix will be able to support tides while using bluechart g2 maps: link to forums.garmin.com
Thanks for posting more photos of the Fenix 3. Would love to see more of the Epix, particularly some on wrist and in comparison to the 920xt.
On a side note, the lack of HRM bundle may push me to the Fenix 3. Bad decision by Garmin.
Would also be very interested in a short menu walkthrough video similar to the fenix 3 one recently posted.
Is the Epix battery better than that in the Fenix 1? My Fenix 1 had a battery life close to the 16 hours advertised when I bought it, but within about 6-8 months it was down to about 5-6 hours battery life with the GPS on. I love the Epix, but I don’t want to spend $500+ on a watch that will be useless in 6 months because the battery won’t last long enough to do what I want.
Is the usb/charging cable the same as for the fenix3? What about the readability of the display with maps in the sunlight? Good or ok or…? What about maps on the epix: if I put f. e. a cn nt and a topo map from the same area on the f3, can I choose, which one I like to see…?
1) The Epix and Fenix3 charging cables are different. I’ve gotta add in a picture above of the Epix charging cable (and the F3 and F2 cables are also different).
2) No issues reading maps in bright Vegas sunlight on the Epix.
3) No maps on the F3 (at all).
Thanks! Sorry, my mistake-I meant the epix for maps of the same area.
Picture!? It is good that the User is able to charge the unit during an activity. I hope that it is an angered cable?
No problem, I just created a small gallery in the post with 8 more photos. I don’t really have much else photo wise beyond that. But this includes the charging connector and some of the zoom functionality: link to dcrainmaker.com
Thanks Ray that’s an interesting connector. I wish manufacturers would just use micro USB :(
Yeah, the main reason for lack of micro-USB is the waterproofing aspect. Most micro and mini USB connectors can only be waterproofed to IPX7 standards (1-meter deep for 30 minutes), which tends to fail eventually.
Polar with their M400 tried out a relatively new connector (micro-USB) that’s 50M waterproofed. It was sorta a ‘hope this works out in real life’ type of gamble. So far it’s worked. I expect you’ll see other companies follow along as well. While some might think companies like Garmin would benefit from extra accessory sales, in reality it doesn’t really work out. The additional SKU’s to stock and create tend to wash that away for a company like Garmin, which is different from an Apple or similar where people would likely by multiple cables to have in a variety of locales.
Thanks for the explanation I hadn’t thought of it that way. I’m just glad they are giving us in activity charging :)
Thanks Ray for the pics! I want one already! I hope they release one with a bundled HRM-RUN.
Hi,
Having gone through the comparison Chart betw. 920xt, fenix3 and epix: I don’t understand, what the Advantage of fenix3 is over epix (besides wifi) and over 920xt (which is much lighter and has wifi too)
Pl. clarify. Rgds, Georg
Thanks for the great reviews you do on these products – they have been very helpful in the past! I am a photographer and use my Fenix for recording track-logs in order to geotag my photos. If I am on a road-trip and get out of my truck to take some photos, with the original Fenix it takes just two presses of the orange menu button to activate the GPS and when I am done, another two presses to stop it again – very convenient and easy on batteries too. When I originally bought my Fenix, it had a defective compass (would not calibrate) and I exchanged it and “upgraded” to a Fenix 2. However its entire fitness-oriented UI drove me nuts, even after trying to get used to it for nearly a week. Far to many button presses to do the simple things I needed, missing some key features I used (no sunset alarm, no GPX file saving – only FIT-, no fine tuning of Ultra-Trac intervals etc.) and a difficult to read LCD on top of that. It bugged me so much in fact, that I exchanged it again for another Fenix 1, which has been working perfectly for me.
I am wondering how easy it is to switch the GPS on and off in the Epix? I am tempted to pre-order one but if it takes too many button pushes to do this, that will really bug me. The original Fenix seemed more hiking oriented than the newer models and it has a feature set and UI that I generally find very convenient for my needs. However, having some higher end hiking-class features (a breadcrumb trail overlaying a topo map would be really nice!) might mean I can leave my Garmin Montana behind more often, unless I am going on a much longer hike away from the truck where I’d want a backup…
Patiently trying to wait for Garmin to publish a PDF manual, but as you mentioned the firmware is still in flux so probably too early to do so…
Dear Mike,
Did you ever find out if Epix is better for photography/hiking?
I’m also a photographer who uses the Fenix1 for all the same reasons you’ve pointed out, but in addiition, I load GPS navigation maps onto my Fenix 1. Not for turn-by-turn car navigation, but navigation for hiking on trails. Have you tried this feature?
I’ve used it successfully with maps from:
http://www.gmaptool.eu and link to garmin.openstreetmap.nl
I’ve heard these Ordnance Survey style maps are supposed to be compatible, but I’ve not yet tested it out.
link to talkytoaster.co.uk
I was surprised that Garmin nobbled the Fenix range by dropping mapping on its subsequent models. Real shame, but I guess it would have taken business away from their other mapping products.
Anthony
Love your work Ray.
Can the Gamin epix screen divide into 4 data fields for running as the 920 XT does?
The Epix contains 8 GB storage.
Would it be technically possible to develop a media-player app (Connect IQ) to play music stored on the watch and send it via bluetooth to head-/earphones?
Not at this point, as the unit doesn’t permit Bluetooth connections to headphones directly. It of course can control music on your phone though.
Will the Bluetooth work with iPod nano?
not the nano, but iPod Touch 5th gen is supported, (or iPhone 4S and up, recentish iPad,etc).
So I noticed something today using the Garmin Compare tool for the Epix vs Garmin’s other fitness devices is that for the Epix Garmin has added a “Swim Workouts” feature.
I’m wondering if this is something that will be exclusive to the Epix or is it something that can/may be brought to other (recently released) fitness devices like the 920XT via a firmware update.
Because it is something that in my opinion that has been missing (and been asked for) a long time and it would be nice to see it come to at least the multisport devices not just the newest device and honestly would be downright annoying if the new (for all of about 2 months by the time it made it to the most people) didn’t get that feature.
The website does not mention anything about 10,000 points per track like most Garmin GPS units do.
It only states 8GB built in memory.
What is the maximum number of points that can be stored in a track?
Hi Ray!
Can you post photos of the Epix similar to what you did for the F3? Can you post photos of 920XT and Epix side by side of the different data screens of running, cycling, swimming and different configurations of the clock/time screen? Thanks a lot!
I would love to…except the product honestly just isn’t to the point of being able to yet (getting the shots I had required slightly more effort than I expected). I suspect they’ll be on the outer edge of the Q1 timeframe.
Is your light working?
?
Forget it. I meant, the current fw of the epix seems to be very beta and it will take some time and I think II. Q 2015 is realistic- if I have interpreted your post correctly
Seem that all companies with multiple products or multiple product lines have the same marketing strategy as the car makers when add features on the models, don’t mix features that will do cannibalism between models. I looked at their handheld lines, the Map64 and Map62, they are like cars, camera or no camera, barometric or no barometric sensor, etc.
As for Garmin, WiFi is a selling point, maps is a selling point, sapphire is a selling point.
– Adding WiFi on the Epix will be stealing Fenix3 sells (aside from the fact that WiFi most likely doesn’t fit on the Epix, its space was taken by the 8GB of memory).
– Keeping basic maps on the Fenix3 (like on the Fenix/Fenix2) will steal sells form the Epix and definitely from the Fenix2, as some people will do fine with basic maps for routing or orientation in a big city. Garmin knows this and still wants to sell Fenix2 for a while, so maybe some time later, when the sales figures look good and Fenix2 will no longer be produced, add some basic mapping (unsupported) like it used to be on the Fenix/Fenix2. The functionality is there, just ported/enabled in the firmware.
What’s missing?
Garmin needs to release a top of the line Epix with WiFi, titanium, sapphire and audio play through bluetooth headphones. And throw some maps for free.
How is the navigation featured compared to the Etrex Series?
For example:
1. Can you choose a point to navigate to?
2. can you build a route on the watch?
The biggest drawback, IMO, is that you can’t switch AA batteries :)
That would make it a real multi-day/expedition watch.
I’m also very interested if when looking at the map that you can see a nearby POI and tap it to select it and then ‘Navigate to’ or similar. Was this available Ray on the beta software?
The beta software was a bit…rough. So it wasn’t something I was able to test well (or much).
Hi Ray,
Any news on last update on the Epix? How it’s works right now? Are we closer to a beta firmware?
I’ve place my order of the Epix on CleverTraining but didn’t get any news yet.
Thx,
Stephane
Epix was announced at being Q1 (so anytime before March 31st). I don’t think we’re that much closer at this point (still January). I expect that if Epix hits that date (March 31st), then it’ll be at the very last moment.
Thanks for the support via Clever Training, I appreciate it!
Ray, do you have any idea what the “swim workout” feature mentioned on the Garmin website is expected to include? I’m pretty sure I want a fenix, but this could tempt me.
It’s to support Connect IQ apps that may want to offer such a capability.
Hi Ray,
Am I right to presume that that Connect IQ app will be available to Fenix 3 and 920XT as well? Will there be apps, swimming, running, cycling, that will only be implemented on the Epix because of its hardware?
Thanks.
It’d be up to whomever made the app to code it to support both rectangle (920XT/Epix) and round watches (Fenix3).
Are the only maps it can use TOPO type ones or ones like British ordinance survey ones possible.?
It can use pretty much any compatible maps that you load on it.
Do you know if the battery life will be A lot lower with constant map use on the screen if using it for naving.?
I don’t know (it’s probably a bit too soon to tell).
Hi Ray,
I’m not sure if this has been asked already but is the Epix also limited to 12 Activity Profiles just like the 920XT?
Corrrection:
Will the Epix be limited to 10 individual sport activity profiles and 5 multisport activity profiles?
I don’t know at this point to be honest, and don’t have an Epix to test on currently (and would be hesitant to say authoritatively with the Epix still probably close to 2 months out). Sorry!
After inquiring on status of all recently announced products, here’s where things stand from their standpoint:
Fenix3: On target for delivery in Q1-2015, likely late Feb/Early March.
Epix: The very edge of Q1-2015, potentially just into April.
Vivofit2: Estimated late February.
Vivoactive: Estimated Mid to late March.
Vivo Signature bands: Estimated mid to late March.
(As a reminder: Here’s the order of events that has to happen for any Garmin product to be shipped: link to dcrainmaker.com)
Thanks all!
Hi Ray, what does the admission of Wifi on the Epix mean apart from it obviously won’t upload of workouts automatically? Does this have impact to the Connect IQ ecosystem or only auto uploading of workouts?
For example I saw a mock up of a stocks app – would this update directly via the watches wifi or have to work via the smartphone sending this across?
I would also like to know if there are any impacts of not having wifi aside from syncing device.
No impact on Connect IQ, since that doesn’t have access to the WiFi chip anyway.
For uploading of workouts, it’ll use the phone with the Garmin Connect Mobile app to automatically upload completed workouts (as long as the app is on in the background). Same goes for apps/widgets that need a data connect (such as the stocks app), it does that through the phone.
Outside of syncing and firmware updates, there aren’t really any limitations there. I see it more as a lost opportunity than anything. Given WiFi is much more suitable for map updates, I would have seen a scenario where you can select/buy/whatever maps using the phone app, and then have the watch leverage WiFi to download/pull those automatically.
Hi,
how it looks with a Quick Release Kit for the Epix ?
Regards Horst
Currently no plans there unfortunately.
Hi, specs page at Garmin website states that Watch supports 24K and 100K topo maps, also when looking up supported devices for those maps on Garmin website. But what about the topo pro line of maps covering most of europe? They are not mentioned and the epix is not mentioned in the “supported devices” list for those maps. The Watch is more or less useless (with Garmin maps) in europe if the topo pro line maps are not supported
The german webside says, that it will support topo pro maps.
Hi Ray,
I am new to this but spent some time reading through your excellent reviews.
Can the EPIX be considered as an EDGE (1000 or 810) replacement, albeit with a smaller screen for navigation when City Navigator NT maps are loaded to it?
Thanks
George
No, unless something changed Epix won’t do streetname routing (i.e. “Turn left on Maple in 200ft”), but rather track based routing. That said, we know some Connect IQ apps actually do offer exactly that, so I do see a scenario where this could be a replacement. Examples of one of those apps here: link to dcrainmaker.com
On the german garmin epix homepage they wrote about the epix:
“The epix even provides routing functions with turn directions when using routable maps.”
It`s clear, that the epix will not “speak” to us, but show us turn directions. Or is it a mistake on the german epix homepage?
link to buy.garmin.com
Hmm, I’ll double-back and check with the product group.
I also mailed to the product group, but I think you have the better and quicker connections.
Yes, I heard the same Ray. Obviously it won’t do this out of the box with the TOPO maps but will do it with aprpopriate routable maps.
Found a link to my source: link to forums.garmin.com
Hi,
Thank you for the quick responses. I will keep reading the forum to see what the product group states.
Thanks
George
I’m waiting patiently for the Epix to come out in Europe but maybe this helps anwering Rabbit’s question about using routable maps:
This routable map for the Epix (see link) also has the epix as comaptible device…one would say it can show you the way…
link to buy.garmin.com
So they confirmed it does support routable maps. In my discussion I asked whether or not it did routing “like” the Edge units (i.e. Edge 810). They noted they were hesitant to use the term ‘like’ because the screen size was different and that the experience would be slightly different. But that ultimately it would give turn by turn directions.
I suspect the reason they’re a bit concerned on giving exacts is that the code probably simply isn’t done yet (or at all), and thus they don’t have anything to shoot me of what it looks like.
Clever training also writes: “Auto route with turn-by-turn direction on roads (when using TOPO U.S. 24K or City Navigator NT maps) ” :)
The navigation capability is interesting. However, if it shows a turn and doesn’t identify the street name, you have no assurance that the direction is correct. Will it show upcoming turn (distance & time) like the Edge 810?
Is there any rumours of Garmin bringing out watches with a PLB function (emergency locator)? If this watch had that I’d drop my Fenix2 and buy it in a heartbeat
I just pre-ordered this – so much or waiting for Ray’s review. Sorry Ray!
Main concern is the map implementation – I’m not willing to suffer sluggish redraws or blank sections of the map where it has just been panned/zoomed into view and won’t redraw in real time until I stop messing. This would earn a return to retailer from me.
Unfortunately, I’m worried about Garmin’s ability to implement, especially within 6 months of launch. They are not Samsung or Apple. I guess we will see.
Any idea Ray when you will get a unit back for some more early impressions?
I’d suspect not until at last sometime in March. Assume that they ship in April (that’s the current estimate, so, it’s also an assumption).
Hey Ray,
You, having seen both the Fenix3 and Epix, how do you feel about the size of the Epix compared to the Fenix3? It doesn’t look much bigger. I’m trying to decide which one I want. Which one would be better for hiking, kayaking and a little running? Got a bike computer, but which one for hiking, kayaking would be better? (size, mapping)
thanks
Nor Ca. 65 and sunny
Bamboo
If maps is what you want, then the Epix is your only choice. The Fenix 3 doesn’t support maps at all.
Could buy an earlier Fenix which you could easily put some maps onto, even if it was officially not supported.
Yes, but there’s a big difference between a device with a 4 gray screen and 20 Mb of free space and one with a 64 color screen and 8 Gb of free space. I have roughly a Pennsylvania county’s worth of maps on my Fenix. When my Epix arrives with the 100k topo’s for the entire US, I’m also planning on putting my 24k Northeast Topo’s on as well (leaving the 100k on), and maybe some OSM maps. I’m curious to find out whether the Epix will do terrain shading with the Garmin topo maps to bring out the relief.
On the other hand, although I haven’t checked the price of a Fenix 1 recently, I’ll bet it costs roughly half as much these days as an Epix and is available right now.
Hi Paul,
What is the point of getting the 100k map if I’m getting the 24k maps? Thanks in advance for sharing your thoughts.
Basically I’m assuming that it’s the same difference as between USGS 100k and 24k topo paper maps. There’s a lot more detail in the 24k maps at the expense of coverage. I ordered the Epix with 100k topos because they cover the entire US, and because they were only $50 more. I already own the 24k maps for the Northeast, which I bought for my Edge 800, and which cover roughly the states east of the Mississippi and north of the Ohio. Since they came unlocked and without restrictions on the number of devices, it’s a no-brainer to put them on my Epix when it arrives in April. The 100k is for the rest of the country (I know I’ll be in Hawaii at some point this year).
Of course, if the 100k’s take up too much space on the Epix, and Garmin is ridiculous about them (locking them to the device so I can’t install them on my computer or even store a copy there) then I might just toss them. But it’s worth the risk for only $50, when they cost around $100 by themselves.
Long time Garmin Handheld user, and I never pay for Garmin maps. There are great options out there that are free, and just as good quality as Garmin’s offering in my opinion (but do lack neat 3D shading features for you, if that is important to you). link to gpsfiledepot.com
Takes a tad more work to download each of the state, but worth it in my mind. I’ve used both the SD, UT, and CO 2011 maps from that list, and they are good.
But, I’d certainly say look for 24k. Much more detail, much better quality. And 8 GB is really quite a bit of room. Probably not every state, but more than a few.
The fenix 3 is an 24/7 watch, the epix is a watch for special applications like hiking etc. and if you want (detailed) maps on your watch- it is not necessarily a 24/7 watch.
So I think the epix is the better choice for really demanding outdoor activities like hiking, biking etc. The f3 is a beauty, the epix not- but has great features for outdoor and it is for my needs the better choice.
But this is only my opinion.
Hi Rabbit,
Doesn’t the Epix come with an activity tracker feature just like the FR920XT and Fenix 3? If it does, then I think it can also be 24/7 watch if size and weight are not issues.
Yes it come with all the features of the 920xt/f3 (exclude wifi- Garmin: why?)- but it is a little bit bigger/thicker and no beauty – of course you can wear it 24/7 (and I will certainly do)….
Ray will Garmin be at MWC next week showing off their new kit again but perhaps with more than four working pages?
They are there, though I don’t know if they’ll have an Epix onhand (I’d bet so). But you can be assured it’s on my list to stop-by and get updated photos if so.
Ray,
Looking forward to more photos and info.
Make sure to bring the rolling pin along!
Curious if they can give you a European launch date…I’m hearing mid-late April here from a retailer. Also interested in how they have implemented the map, is it fluid with prompt redraws or a bit waity. Can you interact with it by tapping POIs and get options such as ‘navigate to’, ‘measure distance to’ etc.
I’m very demanding I know Ray, but I know you can deliver ;-)
Cancelled my F3 pre-order(s) and ordered an F2SE from REI. At least it will have some mapping capability and ability to show routes/tracks on the display when not navigating. Both are important features to me.
I’m hoping the EPIX will be a viable replacement or someone will find a way to show tracks on the F3 display when they are not being navigated. Otherwise, I’ll stick with the F2SE for a while.
I think Garmin made a mistake to drop the mapping and other features that were in the F2 (gps sat view screen), etc. Some say it’s the shift to the 920 base, but mapping is in the EPIX, which is on the same 920 base, so I see it as more of a marketing decision.
Really looking forward to hearing about the differences found between the F3 and Epix.
Ray, debating whether or not I will bring back my F3 for the Epix. I am a big hiker, and love navigation features on the F1, F2.
Will the Epix have those features that the F1/2 had but 3 loss or will it be the same watch with just no wifi and map features?
I think Ray’s article on this page makes things just about as clear as they can be.
Actually he said its still a little bit from release so hes not sure about certain things. All Im asking is will the Epix have the missing features of the F3 (F1/2 Tactix) or has Garmin just thrown those other features away and never plan to use them ever again.
Is the only difference between the Epix is
-No wifi
-has 8gb Memory
-touchscreen
-maps
Is that it?
It’s just too soon to know for Epix. I think we’re probably at least 45-60 days away. In the same way that it’s too soon to know if they’ll add in some of the ‘lost’ F1/F2 features.
Sounds like 05/15 as release date?
It could very well be next week..but Garmin had already adjusted guidance to ‘early April’ a month ago, and I suspect most of that teams focus has been on the F3 the last few weeks. While there is much crossover, the reality is that manufacturing spin-up and what not will still take time, just like the F3. And they’re unlikely to want to shift manuf capacity away from F3 until the last moment.
Hi, what are hose differences you are refering to? I am not sure what specific functions from fenix1/2 that is missing in fenix3
See the Fenix3 In-depth Review, there’s a full section on it.
Perhaps you can ask the develloper team to add sat constellation page, sat signal strength and an elevation plot preview for tracks with elevation data…(before and also during a hike)…
Thanks
rabbit
I’m sure they already would add this as it’s on the fenix and forerunner lines which this will incorporate almost all of the feature sets from.
Preordered mine a cpl weeks ago! Ready to get my hands on one :-) i keep checking back here to see if there are any updates because this site is always on top of it. Finally replacing my old 310xt :D. I was about to get the 920 when I saw this.
So how concerned should I be that there are 0 ‘apps’ listed for the Epix, yet some for the also-yet-to-be-released vivoactive? I realize they are just starting to trickle out today, and it’s a good 6+ weeks until available, but this is what makes me question if F3 or Epix has potential to get ignored in the ConnectIQ market.
Skywatch looks fun – hope cool stuff like that will come to Epix too…
Not at all concerned. Most developers honestly wouldn’t even bother to focus on Epix till it releases, luckily, I’d expect most FR920XT will be tweaked to support it.
Don´t worry! Until the epix will be released, there will be out apps for it.
And the good thing, the apps are tested on the current devices and up to date:)
Looks like the early days of the Android apps store with loads of low quality junk.
or the present day with Suunto… I see great potential with ConnectIQ once things get rolling though.
Hallo dc rainmaker,
just a short question: do you know, if garmin has got final production units of the epix or if they still having pre production units?
best regards
rabbit
Hey Ray,
This watch looks quite interesting for backpacking. In your opinion, how usable is it on a hike without a smartphone? I am trying to minimize the weight I carry, and was considering preloading the maps and ditching the phone altogether.
There isn’t a lot of interaction with the smartphone and the watch at this point. That’s since Basecamp mobile appears not to be supported for newer devices, and realistically GCM won’t help you much once you’ve started the hike (in terms of mapping or creating new routes). So basically, there’s no added benefit to the phone once you’ve left the trailhead.
Do you know for sure if that’s going to be true with Epix as well? Is BaseCamp mobile abandonware? I actually like and use the fact with my Fenix 1 that Connect (and Express) pays attention only to fit files and BaseCamp only to gpx. So I can keep tracks off of Garmin Connect but still see them in BaseCamp simply by recording in gpx only, and if I want them to go automatically to Connect I record in fit as well or exclusively. I guess we don’t know yet what Epix will record?
Cool, thanks. Now it only remains to be seen how capable the routing is (waypoints and all that).
Can you use thin, say cycle gloves with this baby?
I assume not, I think it is a glass screen which would be capacitive and you would need smart gloves to use the touch screen function. :)
Possible but I’m not so sure – it’s a hiking watch and although it’s dual input (screen/buttons), hikers wear gloves, especially over a couple of thousand meters. Ray speaks to Garmin so might be able to clarify for us…
Totally possible. Their Oregon 600 handheld line uses a glass capacitive touch screen that very much works with gloves (including my Black Diamond Guide gloves – though with that large of a glove, precision is somewhat problematic….). Thin cycling gloves work much better.
I’m hoping for something like that. Fat ski gloves would cover the entire screen anyway so would be useless (except for swipe) even if they did register input.
Looks like another blog has got ahold of a pre production version and are about to write up on it.
Which block?
Sorry, “blog”
I want this thing to come out!! I preordered mine and I hope I get it by 4/17 – I am taking a trip out west (from S. Indiana) and would love to have it while hiking!
Garmin says now on their homepage “5 to 8 weeks”
My weekly email from Clever Training said they now expect it mid-May.
Yes, things have been pushed back on that front unfortunately.
Is mid may the current eta?
That stinks but I would rather them release a polished unit rather than releasing too early :)
Just saw that the epix was finally up for preorder on the REI. I did a live chat to see when to expec the watch and they said “April 10th” I know some rumors have said May now but REI did start shipping a month before everyone else in terms of the Fenix 3. Just something to think about
Just in time to cash in on Dividends too… :)
Hi Ray,
First, thank you for your quite amazing commitment in related fitness-running tech today’s products. I’d just say one thing : it helps. It helps a lot.
A specific question about heart rate monitoring : I used to have a Suunto Ambit 3 Peak – saled again yesterday – and I was disappointed by the following thing : it is not possible to monitor heart rate without having starting an exercise. Specially, if you stop running, for example, you cannot monitor your HR as soon as you have stopped the “exercise” in the watch. Same thing if ever you would like to monitor your HR during day’s activities, without starting an exercise on the watch.
I would like to know, if you ever have the answer, if I wear, for instance, the optical HR sensor Schoch connected to a Garmin Fenix 3 or Epix, would I be able to monitor my HR without starting a specific exercise already programmed in the watch ?
Thanks.
Mathieu, Paris.
Virtually all Garmin products allow you to still access the data pages even after you’ve pressed stop in an activity (but not yet saved).
However, for what you’re looking for – it would require you start an activity (even if just an indoor one). There’s no continual background monitor at this time. I think it might be technically possible for someone to create a widget for one via Connect IQ, but I’m not 100% sure there.
Every Garmin device I own will show, say, heart rate as soon as it’s connected with my heart rate belt, whether or not it’s recording an activity. On the Fenix 1, it even becomes a part of the non-activity page rotation (I just switched to my XC Skiing profile, and it now shows HR and Temperature in the rotation, with of course a double line since the sensors aren’t actually connected). But none of them record heart rate (or anything else) until you start an activity. So if you’re just looking to see heart rate every now and then, keep your ANT+ HR sensor on and you’ll (probably, since I don’t have my Epix yet) be able to see your HR. If you want a recording of HR vs time, though, you’ll need to start an activity.
Thanks Ray and Paul for your answers. In a way, the fact that with Garmin, HR shows as soon a sensor is connected, activity started or not, is reassuring.
On the Ambit 3, I didn’t found a way of doing it.
The 920XT was a dead line as it came out. Instead of developing the software on 910XT, Garmin released the 920XT.
Yes, the 920XT thinner, has a color display (kids will love it), but whose priority is to make the activity traceable on social media (want to do a sport or chat on FakeBuke)?
The 910XT software has been neglected since Nov 2014, when the swim metric data issue appeared. Now, March 2015, there is still no SW update. Developing new models, Garmin meanwhile dropped Tanita.
Long story short, this Epic seems to be a fair replacement of 910XT. The one and only question, does it support Tanita scales?
Not quite sure on your timelines. The FR910XT got a number of updates over the first three years, then the FR920XT was introduced basically three years later. I’m not entirely sure what you’re referring to on a FR910XT swim issue, as nobody else has complained here, and I don’t see anything on the Garmin Forums in the first page pages (last few months). Perhaps I’m missing something.
Garmin hasn’t supported Tanita scales for almost two years now (on new models). In large part because basically they just aren’t bought/used. That said, Tanita has noted via Twitter a week or two ago that they will be introducing a widget for Connect IQ that will support it. They haven’t specified a timeframe.
I reported that a 910XT does not record Minimal strokes for pool swimming and some more data also. I do not know either whether it was a subject of discussion on other forums, but their support wrote me:
“We have been able to review your activities from your Garmin Connect account, and can confirm that the information you have identified as missing, is indeed missing. We apologize if this creates any inconvenience to you. At this time, we have created a product issue case in which the Subject Matter Export for this device will be forwarded, and will investigate this issue. We will continue to be in contact with you, as we may have some additional questions for you in the process of investigating your case.
So it looks like they have added you to another case, it seems there are a few other people having the same problem. It looks like they are still working on it and hoping to release a software update for Garmin Connect to fix it. I put a note in there for them to update you and the other customers.”
On a topic of updates…
In year 2009 when I was a 310XT owner, I begged to Garmin to add a custom activity and user defined GPS recording time (except the smart recording and every second rec). My request came out from a fact, that I was using the device for climbing and Via ferratas, where movements are slow and very frequent GPS recording is not desirable.
Then I switched to 910XT and I begged for the same. Of course it was ignored.
When Garmin released the 920XT they triumphantly announced it’s possibility to add custom activity and user defined GPS recording.
The last software update of the 910XT came out on September 2013. Nothing since then.
Why they would not mark a product as discontinued if no support is given on the device?
They also developed a modern look of the Garmin Connect. It does not support Tanita scales and it is impossible to view old records at this look. The only advantage of this look is the possibility to add gears (running shoes, bikes, etc.)
The question is, was there any case when Garmin was listening to their user’s demand and requests or everything is driven by an internal believe?
Who needed Garmin Express? Not only not supporting Tanita scales, but will destroy the communication protocol between Healthy Edge and the scale. The scale is then not recognized and Garmin Express must be uninstalled to make it work again…
I need Garmin Express. It makes my life much simpler. Plug in a device, wait a little while, and everything is automatically transferred to various sites (GC, Strava, SportTracks). When there’s a firmware update, Express will tell me and install it. Much better than the old days where I manually uploaded because the Communicator Plugin was so slow. (Garmin’s dropping of the Communicator Plugin was not entirely their idea, by the way, but motivated by the fact that Firefox and Chrome have dropped support for plugins.) There’s at least a backdoor way for now for measurements from my Withings scale to make it to GC, although I wish that Garmin and Withings would just start working directly together.
Understand your point, just a few remarks…
Connect Dahsboard also displays a message when a new firmaware update is ready. However this functionality was not working properly on Express and on Connect Dashboard either. I got the message that new update is ready even if my device was running on the latest one. For this reason I used to check weekly the direct website (link to buy.garmin.com) for updates. As I wrote, there is no new update since 9/2013.
I upload hiking, climbing and ferrata activities to Sports-Tracker only, there is a possibility to add pictures. For such activities this makes sense.
I do not need to synchronize all activities. Strava, Sports-Tracker allows to select from the FIT file stored under Documents…
From browsers I use Firefox without any issues. IE is a tragedy/joke…
The main problem with Express is, that it kills the communication protocol, the old channel with ANT+ turned on won’t work at all!
Let me describe the structure, how it was working…
You made one Tanita scale measurement with the Forerunner, ANT+ plugged, disabled.
Then you made a second scale measurement within Healthy Edge software, still ANT+ plugged, disabled.
When enabling the ANT+, the measurement from Forerunner is transferred to Healthy Edge software and to Garmin Connect also. If you have a My Tanita account, there too.
If you install G Express, it will destroy all channels. I really mean, nothing will communicate, except the activities and software updates between device and G Connect.
The Forerunner-Scale, the Forerunner-Healthy Edge, the Forerunner- G Connect, the Healthy Edge-Tanita channels become inactive. And this is a big issue for me, a reason to uninstall Express… Am I the only one recognizing this?
To allow Tanita access again, just exit the tray icon of Garmin Express. That’s effectively the same as ‘disabling’ the old ANT Agent. Ultimately, only a single application can actively access the ANT+ USB stick, that’s the way it’s been for nearly a decade.
Ray, trust me that does not solve the issue. Once Express is installed, the scale is not recognized by Healthy Edge software. The scale will send measurement data to Forerunner, but from the device the data won’t be sent anywhere, it throws a message that the scale is not paired. I wish I could attach a schematic picture for better understanding…
Gotchya, so you aren’t actually using the Healthy Edge software to connect directly to the scale (an option), but to pickup the watch data.
The reason that fails is that Garmin changed the location of the files between the ANT Agent and Garmin Express. It broke a bunch of apps. Almost all apps updated within a week (it’s a trivial change).
However, that was also 18 months ago – so it’s probably somewhat telling that Tanita hasn’t updated it yet.
If that’s the problem, then what on Unix/Linux are called symbolic links, on OS X aliases, and on Windows I forget can be used to solve it. Search the Garmin forums for details. The point is to make the old location show up in the new place (or vice versa, it doesn’t matter) so they both exist for any software looking for one or the other but only one has the actual files, which look like they’re in both places at once.
On Windows, those are junctions.
Well, the opposite is true. I uninstalled Express and kept the Healthy Edge sw. The Healthy Edge is kind of central database and communication/data transfer centre.
It stores measurements received by Forerunner, it is sending the measurements to My Tanita.
Except this, in Healthy Edge you can add multiple users/profiles for body composition measurements and store data in PC.
The scale measurement recorded by Forerunner is sent to Garmin Connect. It was visible through Analyze –> Health in classic view. It is not working under modern view.
If Garmin Express is installed, it destroys this data transfer and communication structure. The only option will be uninstalling G Express and reinstalling Garmin Communicator Plugin and ANT Agent…
For me is quite important to have health data in Garmin Connect and from time tie-to-time make a body composition analysis for people who are not using Garmin devices.
That’s why I was asking whether Epix is supporting Tanita scale measurements. This can be a good and one and only replacement of 910XT.
In a multisport range, the 920XT, Fenix are not worth it.
But the best solution would be, if Garmin would add a custom sport and user defined GPS recording to 910XT. That would make a perfect/ultimate multisport device from a 910XT.
Having that, I would not think about Epix. In fact, looks like I won’t be interested, because Epix is not supporting Tanita.
If I should describe Garmin’s sporting devices strategy, I would compare it to mobile phone producer Nokia in 90’s. They developed a wide product range, but neglected the software development….
So in the context of this discussion thread – it’s somewhat inconsequential – Epix doesn’t support the weight scales.
But, ignoring weight scale I’m curious why you say the FR910XT is perfect, but the Fenix3 and FR920XT aren’t (“not worth it”) but the Epix is? None of those support weight scales, and yet they all have basically the same capabilities outside of weight scales as the FR910XT (+more).
The 910XT would be the perfect watch, if Garmin would add the custom sport and user defined time for GPS recording.
920XT has a smaller color display, WiFi, Bluetooth, Virb control. The display is a disadvantage here. Also how many of you will control Virb while sporting? The Wifi and Bluetooth are communication features, doesn’t bring much in relation to the activities. For me, not a choice to upgrade the 910XT.
Fenix3. Leave a round shaped dial for classic watches. The multisport device has a rectangular shaped display. This device is suitable for army/military purposes, NAVY seals would be more than happy owners of it. Not a choice of mine.
The Epix with the Topo maps brings appreciated value for hikers, climbers, ski alpinists within visible development in the background. It is expensive (almost 1 Epix = 2 x 910XT), but condign successor of the 910XT.
Just two more comments to the end…
In device VO2 estimation is unnecessary too. There are at least 10 different methods and formulas to calculate the VO2 max, however all calculations are estimations only.
Garmin Connect. Let’s forget the question of design for a while and concentrate on functionality/features. Ask yourself a question what is more important to you?
To see whether you weight change is affecting water mass, fat mass, muscle mass, bone mass or to see how many runs, for how long your running shoe last? Because this makes a difference between Garmin Connect classic view and modern view…
I’ve owned the 910XT and the 920XT. The latter is an order of magnitude better. It responds more quickly, it has Bluetooth which allows me to upload via my phone, my wife can see where I am in case I get run over, it’s lighter, the strap is more flexible….the list goes on.
I could have used that whole ‘wife can see where I am in case I get run over’ thing tonight. Find my iPhone works well in a pinch too. Luckily I’m mostly ok, just sore.
But anyway, glad to hear the 920 is working well – I had a 910 and really liked it – but looking for more of the connectivity features.
Hey Ray,
Do you know which chipset is based on for epix? fenix 2 or 920XT . (You mentioned somewhere that fenix 3 is based on 920XT!)
It should be the same mtk chipset with gps + glonass as on the fr920xt. The f2 has only a mtk chipset with gps (no glonass).
Just to be clear above, I wasn’t talking about the FR920XT and Fenix3 sharing the same GPS chipset, but rather the same general codebase.
As for the Epix, I don’t know – but I actually wouldn’t assume it’s the same. Keep in mind Epix is using a slightly different communications stack/chip (it lacks WiFi), so it’s possible there are other changes.
Do you know, Epix can do Multisport Tri in (pool swim)? My current F2 is unavailable for that option.
Hello,
My watch gps just breaking down.
What do you advise me between waiting for Epix and Fenix 3 that I can have right now?
With Epix, is it easy to follow a small path (the style of the paths of the French IGN maps 1:25000) ?
I feel that the screen is so small that it must not be easy to find, unless one track has been already created.
(sorry for the english)
This is actually a question. In other words, is the Epix tiny display pemits a real efficient GPS mapping-guidance ?
How big does a screen need to be to tell you ‘Go left in 20m’?
That big, you see ?
And that would fit on its screen my friend.
I just heard from Clever Training that Garmin will be allocating their entire first thirty days supply of Epix shipments exclusively to one retailer – not Clever Training. Disappointing that Garmin made a decision to “ignore” our pre-orders with Clever Training. I value this site and its support community, but it looks like Garmin not so much.
Here’s the latest Friday update from CT regarding Epix pre-orders. So does anyone know who the exclusive deal will be through?
Thank you for your pre-order for the Garmin Epix. After speaking with Garmin, they have informed us that we can expect to begin receiving units around Mid-May. There has been a slight delay in production pushing back the original release date. Additionally, Garmin has informed us that they’ve provided a 30 day exclusive to another retailer to offer them units before any other retailers. Once this 30 days lapses, we will begin to receive our inventory and fulfill current pre-orders. We wanted to let you know about this so you aren’t alarmed by the earlier and limited availability. We will continue to provide weekly updates to keep you on top of availability and status until we are able to fulfill your order. If you have any questions regarding your pre-order, please contact our Customer Service Department at sales@clevertraining.com.
Kind Regards,
Clever Training Team
I initially thought it was REI – seems like Garmin did the same kinda think with Fenix3 and REI. Epix was listed last week for pre-order on their site with their ‘within 30 days’ guestimate. But It looks like it currently unavailable for pre-order on REI’s website.
So basically, I don’t know. :)
According to someone on the Garmin forums who called REI, it is them. They stopped taking orders because they sold out their allotment.
Garmin are telling me 17 April for pre orders being satisfied and I am reading into this that manufacturing speed/exclusives with retailers to make off the shelf stock available until around a month later.
I know there have been a couple comments previously about installing your own maps on the Epix, both 100k and 24k. I have always owned Garmin devices but have never done this before due to my basic computer skills. At the same time I didn’t enjoy the last time I bought maps from Garmin. I wandered where I would look to get a step-by-step on how to do this? And where does everyone get their maps? Also, if there is anything else you can think of that will help me out that would be great. Thanks
As far as maps go, I’ve gotten mine from a variety of sources. My Epix will be coming with US 100k topo maps installed. When I got my Edge 800 almost 3 years ago, I bought the US Topo 24k maps for my region from Garmin, and I plan on installing those on my Epix as well. I have a City Navigator US subscription for my Nuvi (just updated them a few hours ago). I’ve used OpenStreetMaps a lot (generally from here, but from other sources like here as well). When we went to Costa Rica a few years ago I bought maps from a third party that I can’t remember at the moment that worked quite well. OSM maps in general will work fine, but the Garmin topo maps get relief shading to bring out the terrain on some Garmin devices (like my 800), and they look particularly good in BaseCamp. (Whether there’ll be relief shading on the Epix remains to be seen.) On the other hand OSM maps have every trail in the area, while the Garmin maps are missing quite a few.
As for managing/installing them, on OS X Garmin has MapManager and MapInstall, and I use BaseCamp to use the maps on my computers. On other devices (Edge 800, Edge 705, 60CSx) I generally install temporary maps on a microSD chip and just plug the chip in when it’s time, but that won’t be possible on the Epix.
Gpsfiledepot.com, click tutorials at the top. It might be a little different with the Epix but probably similar. I will know for sure once I get mine :-)
I still paid $50 for the 100k, I figured I might as well just to have it the way it was designed :-) I cant wait to get my hands on it!
Twitter exchange w/ @Garmin 3/26/15:
@timchristoni
@Garmin @GarminFitness When can we expect the #Epix in stores or a user manual posted online? – Mar 26
@Garmin
@timchristoni I’d expect the manual to be posted soon. Sorry, there’s not an official release date yet other than 2nd quarter, 2015. *CG
Here’s another twitter exchange….@Garmin When can we expect the Epix to ship to retailers? Release date?@KyleNewton It’s shipping now and would expect it to be in stock with retailers soon if not already. I’d check with local dealers. *CG
Also I preordred with REI few weeks ago when it was available, today they said April 13 for ship date still
That’s pretty funny Kyle. Two messages with completely different answers. Gotta love it. I also pre-ordered from REI but was told the 16th. Time will tell, as always. Thanks for sharing your exchange with them.
Well they said it would ship April 12 and I would receive it 15-16th. So were on same page. Hopefully its sooner !
So that’s 2 weeks away and therefore software is close to final – Ray do you know if they are they going to send you one after or before release so you can give us your early impressions?
Ray I was looking at a couple pictures and whatnot and noticed that the charging pins are on the right side. I also see the charging piece is different then others(longer, sticking out). How will this effect charging while on the wrist? It doesn’t look like it will be comfortable. Why wouldn’t they put it the pins on the left side? Have you had any experience while having the unit?
In talking with them, there’s currently no expectation of being able to charge it while worn on the wrist – due to the design of the charger. Having had hands-on time with the unit, I’d agree with that assessment.
This charger construction is mess! What a stupid idea (!!!) to put the charging pins on the left side. Seems for me, that nobody thought about that and the they did not test it.
A way to “fix” it a little bit: Garmin, we need a usb cable with an angled charger! And not as accessories to buy but as regular delivery
Correction: I mean ” on the right side”!, of course!
I like what Sony have done with their smartwatch 3 – it’s waterproof plus has a standard micro USB port which they have also waterproofed. Seems like a great idea to me. link to wareable.com
Yeah, but it’s only IP68. I strongly prefer a legitimate 50M rating and accept the trade off of requiring some sort of charging clip.
Garmin has really done well with the Fenix charging cables in my opition (at least in later versions). Same they kinda left this one out to dry. Oh well.
IP68 is sufficient for an urban smartwatch like the Sony but you think it’s beyond human advance to get it extended to 50m? If they had done this you could charge the watch anywhere without taking this special cable around. This is a 1st world problem.
Ray any news out of Garmin about the Epix? How about your review Unit?
REI still says April 13th for ship date.
Unclear. Hearing conflicting dates when I asked on Monday. When I asked about shipping in general, they said May now. I’ll check again tomorrow. Either way, I don’t have a unit.
Gutted to hear on the go charging will not be possible / very tricky. Had settled on the epix for “xtreme” ironmans with offroad runs and ultras. Of course it’s only the ultras which I’d need to charge it. Do you know if it can function while charging like the fenix 3? If so I might try to figure out a way. Many thanks.
There is a post in the garmin forum, that epix fw 1.85 is released via garmin express. Isn`t it a indicator, that the epix will be released in april? But otherwise, the manual isn`t released yet.
Usually about a month out Garmin will start populating the public update channel with updates for products. This is mostly to test various production systems. It could mean their close, or it could mean their just testing. I’ll poke today and see what the dealeo is.
Ok Ray, I’m not normally a grammar Nazi, but twice in one sentence? They’re populating their channels over there.
LOL. Hey Ray, it’s more like a week or two now max for earlier pre-orders. What are Garmin telling you and can they get you a unit?
There is another US retailer saying 5-10 business days now. I called to confirm. Wont say who but Garmin is really not managing their releases for the Fenix and Epix very well. Someone posted on the Garmin forums that their local REI put out the Epix display model today.
I’ve heard through the grapevine that June 3rd is the official date. If you get it any sooner (probably from rei), make sure to share your experiences with it!
My REI has one out on display – but it’s a non-functional display. So sadly not much to get excited about, but the sticker on the screen looks fantastic! LOL
I ordered the Epix on January 9th, figuring they would be the one’s to order from to get it quickest…so I have been waiting patiently…well, as patiently as I can, since then. Then I saw all of these REI posts popping up so I started doing some investigating. I contacted Garmin and they told me flat out that if I want the watch as soon as possible, then to go with REI because they have the first shipment deal with them.
Then I contacted REI to see what they had to tell me, and they said they were going to receive the shipment on April 12, but that Garmin was notorious for being late on their orders. So, I cancelled my order over the phone with Garmin, and he told me the same thing that REI was the way to go. Then the next day I live chatted with Garmin and they said that they were NOW going to get the shipment on April 29 and shipments would go out on April 30. He told me that saying that if I were to order yesterday that I would receive the Epix sometime shortly after the 30th.
I’m not going to get my hopes up too high because MAN are they taking forever on this. Garmin even told me when I contacted them before that the Epix probably wouldn’t ship from them until mid to late June! I get that they have had delays and will have delays, but sheesh, why even pretend that you will get it out in the first quarter when you are saying you won’t even ship until almost the 3rd quarter. They should have announced it later or known that this product would take longer than they were announcing, because I really think that they thought they would have to pull of some kind of a miracle to get it released within the 1st quarter.
By the way, when I did order the Epix through REI they told me that they shipment would be received on the 12th, and maybe they will, I might just be included in the second shipment that will come on the 29th. Who knows anything really…even the Garmin guys have to ask a lot of questions to get you some answers. I just hope to have the Epix in hand before 2016…which at this point might be asking a lot. There are many things I would like to use it for this summer…here’s to hoping.
Hopefully Ray does unboxing video as soon as he gets one. Which should be any day now…
Anyone got any news at all? I wish there was more interest in this watch, updates seem to be few and far between
I think we are all just waiting in anticipation for Garmin….the calm before the storm. So, if anyone gets their hands on an Epix let us know.
Last I saw on the Garmin forums people are now saying that REI is telling them the 29th of April. Clever Training didn’t send out its weekly update last week; they were saying “another retailer” has a 30 day exclusive and that they would get theirs mid-May in the previous one. But REI originally said the 10th, so other retailers will probably have to wait 30 days after REI starts shipping, so that probably means end of May for me.
That sounds about right. REI did have the Epix up for a few days online then they pulled it off. They put it back up last week for pre-orders and guarenteeing it within 30 days. I put my order in for the 100K version from REI on the 7th which means I will have it no later than the first week of May. Sorry Clever Training….I had to use up my dividend sometime…next time though….I guess I shouldn’t feel so bad I bought my wife’s Vivoactive from CT.
I ordered Mine from REI on March 17, and they told me last week to expect arrival around the 29th of April (sorry again CT, but you did get my Ambit 3 order last August).
Forums also said REI took it down shortly after march 17 as they sold out of their initial allotment, and it has since returned for the next round. Who knows. I’ll post if I get a shipped notice.
i called REI today and they said they are not receiving them till May 12th from Garmin
Same here. I may end up receiving my Apple Watch first… LOL
Based on what I’m hearing, that’s roughly in line.
Map capability and outstanding readable display:
link to facebook.com
The maps look at the upper end of my expectations and great direct sunlight visibility as expected. Hopefully you can interact with those POIs and map to a functional extent though otherwise it will all be limited in application.
Good find Rabbit and thanks to Czechoslovenia
Im guessing Rabbit got it from my post over at the garmin forums, but who cares lol. I am a mad man, I search facebook, twitter, Instagram daily for news on the watch. I just want this dam watch. There was one guy on the garmin forums who got a tracking number last week(rei) , but nobody has heard anything from him since.
OK sorry, well done Kyle :O)
Garmin told me ‘early May’ earlier today in the UK but no specific date is on their inventory system.
Amazing search powers – I’m so please I’m not your ex-gf.
Nice find, I wonder if the epix watch faces will include the option to show dark numbers over white/clear background, since all screen shots i have seen use a black background. I am eager to see how clearly Custom kmz Maps and Birds Eye images are shown. and if the watch includes the Active Route feature available on other outdoor handheld units and in the Fenix 1.
I also have a May 12th date.I hope this watch lives up to my expectations….I hope we can interact with the maps with the touchscreen. Im hopeful Garmin adds in the barometer lock that Suunto has because the Barometer/Altimeter on the Fenix 3 is pretty much useless without GPS. I had mine for a week and returned it because the gps was so bad.
More hands on photos from (former) CzechoSLOVAKIA
link to rungo.idnes.cz
I’m happy to see the top right corner shows the map scale.
I think someone did post those former photos from Czechoslovenia – the article is good too and they seem to have one of the pre production units with a serial number of like 9 or something
Can somebody show me where Czechoslovenia is on a map? I don’t seem to be able to find it… ;-)
hmmm, it’s not coming up on google maps but I think that’s because it’s not completely comprehensive and they haven’t gotten around to adding all of the minor importance countries yet.
Yes, I just grabbed it from newtonfb post from the garmin.com forum
By the looks of things, I doubt Ray is going to get an example unit before the early pre-orderers get their in early May.
Generally speaking I’ll get a media unit out of the first Garmin production batch (I suspect that the fiasco that happened last time won’t happen again…).
I’d say a much more relevant question is whether or not said shipping of any units will occur in early May.
Ray how do you explain this?
link to forums.garmin.com
Looks like rei shipped a couple out. I ordered same day as him and my order is still scheduled for may 12 arrival.
It boggles my mind why garmin hasn’t sent you a unit yet. They have obviously produced some even if they haven’t shipped any big amounts, no changes are going to be made now.
I’ll ask the Olathe folk this morning as to what the current shipping status is. When I chatted with the Garmin France folks on Thursday, they noted still about a month out (I usually don’t chat with them, just the Garmin HQ folks).
Any news from the Olathe folks?
Expected availability: April 25 2015
link to bhphotovideo.com
I’ve seen that date on another site also. Dicks sporting goods says in stock.. I called them and they said they are just waiting for garmin to ship them apparently. Sounds lik garmin gave everyone a late April release date. I wonder if clever training is still on track for mid May…
link to mountaingear.com
They say they have 3 available. I didn’t call them to see if that is true…
I talked with them, they said they ordered 3(why it says 3 available) and thats the date they were told by garmin to expect them but no guarantee
gps city lists availability today, but the page shows pre-order still…
link to gpscity.com
I did a live chat with them and this is what they said
“Richard:
Today was the estimated in stock day Bob. Looks like there has been a delay. We’ll have the latest information from Garmin posted as soon as we have it.”
just talked to REI Garmin said they will ship them to Rei on May 10.
Just got this from Clever Training (they usually send them out Friday):
“Thank you for your pre-order for the Garmin Epix. Garmin has notified us that the Epix release is delayed slightly. Currently, it is projected that we will see our initial units in mid- June. As a reminder, Garmin has informed us that they have provided a 30 day exclusive to another retailer to offer them units before any other retailers.”
I ordered mine from REI the 2nd time they put them up on the site. They sent me an email last night saying that it is on backorder and they needed an email or call stating that I wanted to keep the order or it would be cancelled.
I replied that I wanted to keep it and they responded back that it should ship to me on or around May 12th.
About what I was expecting – I cancelled my Epix order with my local Garmin retailer which I hated to do, but a month is a long time :)
I got the same email last night from REI and gave them a call. They said May 14th.
So it sounds like that REI will begin (hopefully) shipping first or second week of May and other retailers first or second week of June. At the same time its kind of odd that other retailers are not saying anything about the 30 day exclusive. Alot of retailers were told by Garmin April 25th-ish while CT was told Mid May to begin with. I just hope CT isnt getting the short end of the stick like they did with the Fenix 3.
In hearing back from Garmin yesterday, they noted initial units will go out in a few weeks (so that matches the REI May 10th dates). They noted broad shipping availability in mid-June (which matches the 30-day REI exclusive). CT is matching all of that as well, with their assumption of June as well.
CT has the better deal. Can you all wait that long is the question.
Cardio and a nice relaxing swim.
That’s really what it’s all about Brittnee. But the gadgets to help us along with our training dashboard are super. Be patient CT customers, Epix is looks right for adventures plus training and CT looks like a great deal.
Curious – the Epix data transfer capabilties list Bluetooth and USB. I have a 310XT and it is ANT+.
Will it be possibile to transfer data via ANT+ through Garmin? Thanks!
Does anyone else have a Garmin watch that only lists USB as data transfer and it still allows ANT+ to computer as long as you have the dongle?
No, as far as I know Epix will be USB and BT only.
The main reason being that ANT+ transfers to the desktop mostly increases support costs for Garmin. They’d like to move away from it as much as possible.
Garmin has a screwed up way in dealing with release dates…to be continued
I dont, It could come before that date or after. Garmin has a screwed up way in dealing with release dates.
On a side note i found this odd…I ordered from Dicks Sporting Goods at the beginning of April because they had it and said it would ship April 20th, from the date Garmin gave them. I called them and they contacted Garmin and gave me a call back, Garmin gave them a May 11th date for when the order will ship. I find it odd because isnt REI supposed to have a 30 day exclusive? Im not saying the watch will actually ship on the 11th but I find it odd that Dicks just talked to them and said the date was the 11th instead of just saying early June. Either way im just going to cancel whatever one gets shipped first and my guess is REI. Either way I wouldnt be surprised by anything.
I read this here:
link to forums.garmin.com
Date of release. ..to be continued
Please! Is there anybody who can translate this in English for me:
“Nie darfst du so tief sinken und den Kakao, durch den man dich zieht auch noch zu trinken.” (Erich Kästner)
My English is not as good .. but I am eager to hear how this sounds in Engish ;-)
Herzlichst!
Naomi
Thanks!… I found the translation into English by myself!
Here we go:
” Imagine there is a release for the Garmin Epix and nobody buys it! ” :-))
Hihi!
`n Lachen und `n lieben Gruß!
Naomi
In German nowadays we have a saying, that helps me translating Erich Kästners sentence above.
” Stell dir vor, es ist Krieg und niemand geht hin!” (Imagine, there is war and nobody goes there)
“Sorry to be such a cynic but with the preorders going out around 10 days or so away and no real appearances of the watch, I’m starting to worry if this thing is so sluggish or half baked that it’s being kept under wraps for that reason. I did read a review that the vivoactive was sluggish and I think the hardware is similar except that watch doesn’t have to drive 8GB of maps.”
from there:
link to forums.garmin.com
Same I fear too.
Naomi
If they release it to early with issues, people are unsatisfied, if they release it later with less issues, people are unsatisfied- people are always unsatisfied with new releases, no matter what garmin do…
“You wouldn’t have many appearances of the unit, because said date would be based on units being produced.
The units that you see floating around at/by various Garmin offices are variations on non-final units.” (DCRainmaker´s answer)
“Sure Ray but the prototype units aren’t getting airtime either and they are on v2 software now” (Poulan 9`s answer
I wish Garmin lets information coming out! For instance manual. So waiting time is not so cruel.
On the other hand we can hope that Garmin had learnt from their disasters in past
I had a Polar RS 800 working perfectly from the very beginning on and 5 years without any problems.
And how many of us had to give back their Garmin watches several times until getting one that works to one´s full satisfaction finally!?
So I hope, Garmin has learnt from past and will bring a Epix watch that works as my PolarRS 800 did.
Nevertheless Garmin announcements for date of release borders on insolence and can make one angry!
IMVHO!
Herzlichst!
Naomi
Naomi
Haha, yes Garmin are bordering on insolence and must be punished… by me spending $600 on this watch. Well most companies keep details quiet to avoid embarrassment if they miss ship dates etc. I would love to know Garmin’s return dates, I bet they are pretty shocking.
My original fenix went back once it started fogging while swimming. Second one was excellent for a year until one day the battery was showing as empty (it wasn’t) and it wouldn’t charge at all but a hard reset and reflash seemed to fix it and it behaved well again so it was a once off.
User manual (pdf) are available on Garmins site now, not the english manual atm!
I didnt see the manuals, link?
Here. The English language manual isn’t up yet, but if you click on the “all languages” link you can find Spanish, French, and Portuguese versions
On the spanish manual I can’t find references to an altitude plot screen, or to a screen for the active route
It seems distance to next and time to next are not listed in the available fields, only distance and time to final destination.
I hope the advanced track navigation available on outdoor units such as the oregon and the original fenix is not left out of the epix (automatic start and end points for tracks as well as high and low points based on altitude)
Also I wonder what information will be presented when routing on street maps (distance to next turn – street name) as opposed to only distance to final destination
Most of the information presented on the manual seems to be fitness oriented.
Any mention of ability to charge on the move?
I am wondering all these also. I hope Ray reviews this a little more in depth for hiking crowd comparing it to the Oregon units and not just running biking crowd.
the only information on the manual about charging is related to the cable charging the watch from a usb port or from an ac adapter, a notice is given that in order to avoid corrosion, the contacts and surrounding area should be clean and dry. the cable seems to have a clamp mechanism which is connected first to the back of the watch and then to a notch in the side. I hope an future dc review can focus on the features of the epix (navigation, mapping) not available or different from the fenix 3.
Keep in mind that Garmin has previously stated that the unit won’t really work well for continuous charging on your wrist due to the design of the connector.
Thanks guys.
Yes, I’ll likely only ever need to charge on the go in one or two events so happy to compromise in that respect a little. If I need to use it as a handheld in order to charge that’s not a big problem. But I do need it to still run as with the Fenix 3 not stop as with 920xt.
Still makes no sense why they went that route. What does it hurt giving us option to charge on the go?
Agree it is a real shame and not good thinking/ design from Garmin. For me if I have to take it off my wrist to charge it during an ultra it’s not the end of the world and the battery life is good enough to not need to charge during the hardest iron distance triathlons.
For anyone that cares I sort of translated the manual. Here is a link. There is no pictures but all the words are there…take it for what it is.
link to docs.google.com
Also here is another document. I just copied and pasted the map and touchscreen features which doesnt seem to be much. Everything else in manual seems to be stuff we already know..unless someone can find something good. One thing i did find interesting was about “point of interest” in the map features. One thing i couldnt find was if you could interact with the 24k maps or any custom maps, click a mountain and see how long it would be to get there, how high it is, stuff like that.
link to docs.google.com
Also of note, there’s a “dawn” and “dusk” data field that I think is new
Thank you :)
Found first picture of box….
link to docs.google.com
REI just told me I should have it by the 27th and they are doing another 20% off coupon on the 15th for their anniversary :-D
im confused…are you going to reorder on the 15th or something?
Garmin UK told me they have already shipped some in the UK to retailers and get a second batch next week.
Really hope that’s accurate. Got a pre order in with Cotswold, fingers crossed they are one of the “some” and mine is in the first batch. Would be pretty happy with next week mind. Are you waiting for one?
CW told me they are expecting enough in their first shipment tomorrow to satisfy pre-orders up until April. Mine was Feb.
…they are only going to be able to book them into stock tomorrow so customers won’t get them until early next week.
Eeek. April 7th for me. Dropped them a line so should know where I stand soon enough. Can’t wait.
Just spoke to CW and Garmin missed the delivery so they are now saying end of May.
Not exactly: CW were told by Garmin UK that they will deliver late next week and CW may get them out same day.
pre ordered mine in Jan from CW. just sent them an email to see if they have a date yet
Ray, what’s the latest you’re hearing about everything ?
Dragonfly to Orang-Utan!
Dragonfly to Orang-Utan!
Chiefest degree of urgency !
Come in please!
Ray , any news when you get one? ;-)
`n Lachen und `n Knuff!
Libelle
Their expecting media units in the next few days, at which point it’ll ship over to me.
The process from them to me takes three days:
1) One day for them to overnight it to my forwarding box in the US
2) Two days for FedEx international to arrive in France
So in general, something has to be in my forwarding box by 3PM Wednesday for it to arrive by Friday in Paris.
They’re
Thanks Ray your hard work is appreciated
DC, how much time does it usually take you to do a review? Let’s say you get the watch on friday. One week? Because I’m waiting like crazy for this one.
I would think a month at least…
It’s generally a month. Sometimes more, sometimes less if it’s a less complicated product. The Epix is a more complicated product than most (perhaps the most complicated product out there).
If it showed up in my hands on Friday, the earliest I’d likely have an in-depth review would be the 2nd week of June. I’ve got some time in the Alps coming up later in the month that I’d use as part of the testing.
That said, I’d likely start dropping various videos onto YouTube in between now and then – similar to what I did with the Fenix3.
For the alps for example it would be necessary to have an elevation plot on the epix of tracks or calculated routes with elevation data during a hike/mob tour to have a look, what’s coming up. Because of the great map capability of the epix, it should have it as a feature, but I fear, it does not have it. Can you please have a look on this? Thanks.
Agree, that would be a cool feature also for cycling knowing how much of the climbs you’ve done and how much of descents you have remaining.
climbs you have coming that should have read
“Just to be clear, with the example of Friday in some other thread, I was just explaining timeline examples. While I’d love for it to be here Friday, unless I get a note today from Garmin saying they shipped it to Houston today, that own’t happen. ” D.C. Rainmaker #88 read:
link to forums.garmin.com
Naomi,
Not to be rude but you don’t need to relay something every time someone post in the garmin forums. Ray basically said the same thing a few post down. Not to mention I’m sure the majority of us are monitoring both pages
“that own’t happen” I beg your pardon , does that mean: ” it will not happen” or ” it will happen”….
to get it till Friday ????
Herzlichst! NAOMI
It means that unless it shows up today in my US forwarding mailbox, I won’t have it on Friday here in France.
Given they didn’t tell me yesterday that they sent anything Epix related overnight for arrival, I doubt they did (especially since we chatted on other topics via some other threads).
Dear Ray!
I see! :-)) and understand!
Thank you very much for your explanation, Ray!
Herzlichst Naomi
Sounds like some of us in the UK with pre orders can expect to have ours within a week – “We are due to receive these this week and will aim to have it with you early next week.”
Anyone found an English manual yet?
Just received my REI receipt and account shows next Tuesday as expected arrival
English owners manual is up! link to static.garmincdn.com
Your awesome…
When did you order from REI?
I ordered on April 12th after I saw REI was getting it first
OMG they put in pinch to zoom on a 1.8″ screen! Sounds great but how workable is that???
Either way it’s much better than the pathetic combination of button presses to toggle between scroll up/down or right/left which was so tedious.
You wrote in the feature list: geocaching: yes
But the manual don’t say a word about that. Perhaps they have removed the geocaching ability?
Sorry: I am talking about paperless geocaching
I would not take the manual as confirmation of the definitive feature list, as happened with the original garmin fenix manual, where geocaching functions were described from the start, and fitness features were added later. In the epix it seems fitness features received an emphasis but I can’t find features such as Geocaching, Active Route, Sun and Moon, Jumpmaster, Waypoint Averaging, MOB, Project Waypoint, all available on the original fenix under gps tools
I can confirm that the user manual is “currently” based on less feature filled models. I do know that it’s not accurate for a few small things that were copied from the f3 that are different on the epix.
Yes, the Informationen about the new routing and maping features aren’t very meaningful. But I thing, we won’t get a more detailed manual…
It was supposed to support the Chirp, maybe not anymore (or maybe there was just initial confusion).
I was happy to see mention of “lock on roads” and “avoidances” in the routing section. So it looks like it can route using the map like a Nuvi or and Edge.
Yes, it does! :)
I ordered mine from REI on the 7th of April and I just got a shipping notification today (may 14th). So I assume it will be in my hands early next week. I’ll post my thoughts when I do (previous owner of several handhelds and the 310xt, fr620, and my wife has the vivoactive so I’m excited to see how it compares to all of them).
USPS confirmed I’ll have mine tomorrow. The wait is finally over!
Arrived? How is it?
If your in the UK the Keswick mountain festival stand has one on display just had a look at it. Only had the basic free mapping on it so not much detail but they said it takes the OS GB mapping.
Garmin UK told me that they had limited supplies but had a bunch sitting around in stock gathering dust on the off chance that someone will return theirs. Meanwhile I’ve had a pre-order for 3 months and am further down line behind so far some non existent theoretical return. FU 2 Garmin!
All companies have stock for warranty/support replacements – that’s a good pro-consumer thing. Otherwise, you get into situations like this: link to cultofmac.com
Of course you are right Ray but Apple didn’t claim end of Q1 and then have customers waiting around nearly 2 month’s later with nothing to show for it so it is frustrating when they keep missing deliveries when a day before they were still expecting to make them for two weeks consecutively. Logistics is a complete dark art to them.
So I got the EPIX!!!!! Just arrived via USPS a few minutes ago. I haven’t got it down yet but my initial impressions are good…perfect….no but I think everyone will like it. I’m not holding out on you guys so I posted a video here link to youtube.com
Feel free to ask me any questions, however it is finals week next week for me so I will answer when I can. Also, I don’t want to take away from Ray’s awesome reviews.
FYI the video is on the basic mapping functions, just because that was what I was most curious about for my trail runs.
Great stuff, thanks. I think / hope you can actually charge during use by changing the settings. If you get a chance could you try? Settings > system > usb mode – change from “mass storage” to “Garmin”
A photo of the clip would be brilliant as well. Really hope there is some way of charging on the go for ultras, even if it means taking it off the wrist.
I’ll do another video tonight showing it clipping on and off. If there is anything else you guys want to see let me know and i’ll throw it in the video.
Do you have any maps installed, like 24k? Sorry haven’t had the chance to look at video yet. If you do have maps are they routable? For example, can you click on a mountain top and it’ll give you route, eta , ect. ?
I have the 100K version and from what I can tell it only routes “as the crow flys” just like on my Oregon 650t. I haven’t added any other maps yet. I was also hoping for turn-by-turn directions. This would probably only be the case if I get a street map version or I entered in a course, but I am an amateur at this so I wouldn’t know for sure.
Thanks for the video, especially as you are showing it off before you’ve even had much of play with it for yourself.
My impressions were that it was snappy until you start using the maps and then it becomes fairly laggy when you zoom out and the redraw whilst panning areas into view was at least as bad or worse than my fears which seem to have materialised. The pinch to zoom also looked tricky on such a small screen which is what I suspected but it’s an additional option rather than the only one so that is down to preference.
I did switch it from “mass storage” to “garmin” and it looks like it will function/record when charging. Now it is up to the individual to decide if the want to put it on their wrist and try and run with it or through it in a backpack.
The Garmin 100k maps aren’t routable, so you’ll have to try ones that are, like the 24k, City Nav, or OSM maps.
Box 1 ticked! Thanks
I’m loving my epix so far but I’m very disappointed at the address routing… I was hoping to also use it while riding my motorcycle to glance at directions to my destination. Maybe there will be a way down the road with other maps.
The screen and the responsiveness is better than I thought it would be. In comparison to my wife’s vivoactive it is a lot quicker and the glass, vs. the plastic on the vivoactive, is really nice and your fingers glide. When you scroll through the menu I felt like there wasn’t even a lag sometimes. Yes the screen is small for a map but I was zooming just fine before the video, but while I was making it I was looking through the camera and trying to zoom and that is a lot harder. Of course the option to zoom out with the buttons is nice for when your wearing gloves or got big fingers.
There’s definitely a lot of promise with the watch once a few more software updates come through to fix some of the bugs. I thought it routed if you have routable maps loaded and only directs ‘as the crow flies’ when routable maps aren’t loaded. I’m not sure what you have loaded but I’m guessing it’s the recreational maps which I think only have routable trails and such but treat roads as non routable. Do you have access to the City Navigator maps to try that?
Greg, can you tell us from where did you ordered it? It is a special one for ‘special Greg’ or it is a public one?
Thx
Steph
Steph…just preordered from REI 5 weeks ago. I’m usually the last person to get a product not one of the first so this is new to me.
I have heard that free (routable) osm maps won’t work on the epix anymore. Would be nice, if you could test this.
Another question: I also heard that the epix won’t support paperless geocaching (at the moment?). Perhaps you can test that too (in case that you are a geocacher).
Sorry, I don’t do any geocaching so I am in the dark on that. I’ve never done free maps before but I was hoping to try that out once I’m done with school here soon. I’m pretty sure Ray knows (or soon will know) the answer to both of those.
I went on a little hike/run so I made a little 1 minute video if you want to see it in action. Nothing special. link to youtube.com
Greg, thanks for the reports and videos. How would you compare the map redraw and panning speed to your Oregon 650t? Thanks for any info.
Oops, I have the older Oregon 550t. It is comparable to the 550t model. By the time it refreshes your not mentally thinking “come on…hurry up”. I timed it out with several different zooms and pans and it takes just under a second to refresh. In the first video I made the reason it didn’t respond is that it actually froze (from what I could tell) and I simply restarted it. I’ll throw another video on sometime after I play around on it a little more.
Excellent and thanks. Very helpful.
My Epix is already DEAD!!!
I got my Epix today in the mail from REI this afternoon, which was a pleasant surprise– unfortunately, after a couple of hours of use, it became inoperable. I probably have had about 30 Garmin units, so I love their gear, but I’m pretty disappointed for the moment, although I am hoping on Monday morning tech support can talk me into a fix or arrange to exchange it.
Here is what happened: I used Garmin Express to update the firmware to 2.20 (shipped with 2.10) manage my Apps/Widgets/Watchfaces and the first time it worked great. Also used the Garmin Connect App with my iPhone 5, but it wouldn’t sync to transfer the apps, so I went back to the computer and using Garmin Express downloaded a watch face. When I disconnected the Epix from the computer, it showed the Garmin startup screen and then nothing happened. Eventually, turned it off and tried again, even tried to reload the new 2.20 firmware but nothing changed. Now the computer will recognize it as a mass storage device, but not Garmin Express– but Basecamp does still recognize it. Not sure what happened, but the third party watch face I had just loaded is suspect to me.
Here are a few observations, of the unit before it crashed:
I really like it– but it seems more of a training watch, than what I hoped for as being an outdoor mapping unit, with a touchscreen for the wrist.
There is no geocaching features I could see.
There is no satellite page, however you can select to enable/disable GLONASS and WAAS and you can save your current location to get lat/long and instead of mm.mmm there is mm.mmmm shown.
The navigation compass page to the waypoint your are heading to is quite boring (black/white, small arrow)
You can import waypoints known as “saved points”
There are many activity profiles, such as hike, run, swim, etc– I wish there was a navigation profile like there is with the Fenix 2.
The USGS app seemed cool– figures out your altitude from your current location, to help you calibrate altimeter (requires Bluetooth connection to smartphone)
The smart notifications worked, but no way to clear old ones that appear.
Birdseye imagery looks good and worked though basecamp after registering unit.
The 100K maps look great, panning the map is a little difficult with big fingers.
The touchscreen option to move through the menu is really nice.
The connector for computer access and charging, clips on easily.
Hoping there is an accessory of a leather band like the fenix/fenix2
I have been anxiously waiting for the Epix since it was announced– I have used both the fenix and fenix 2 and I am excited for the new features– but it looks like I am back to the fenix 2 for now, until I can get the Epix to work. I will post an update after taking to tech support on Monday morning.
Please do update us. Debating between the Epix, Fenix 3, and the Ambit Peak wife and I are hikers/hunters, not runners, so having a devil of a time deciding.
1. Press the light button for about 20 seconds to switch off the epix
2. Performe a hard reset ( attention all user setting and activities will be deleted)
Delete the driver under device manager, reboot computer. Hard reset the watch, then connect it to the computer.
“Please do update us. Debating between the Epix, Fenix 3, and the Ambit Peak wife and I are hikers/hunters, not runners, so having a devil of a time deciding.”
I would think that would be easy. The Epix has maps, the others don’t. But with the caveat “not this summer” for the Epix, since it probably will have the usual Garmin new device problems for the next few months. If you don’t need the maps, then one of the other two.
If it were just hiking, I’d say don’t bother with a watch and get a handheld.
Do you know how to perform a master reset on the Epix?
Hold the down, start, back and power buttons at the same time
When the epix is starting let the start button go
When you hear the first beep let the back button go
When you hear the second beep let the down buttons go
The device will boot back up and you will be prompted to enter your profile information
Thanks! Do you know at what stage I release the power/light button?
Thanks again
Power the epix off. When it starts, release the light button…
As for loading a free routable openstreet map to your new epix to check street routing , there is a good step by step description on this dc rainmaker article
link to dcrainmaker.com
The article shows the procedure on a Garmin Edge, but I guess it should not be very different with the Garmin Epix, one difference is you are not using a microsd card, but you would be sending the gmapsupp.img map file to the watch garmin folder, maybe renamed as gmapsup2.img as to not overwrite a basemap or topo map using that file name
Could any new owner try loading a track on the epix, or trying to navigate a previously saved one?, With the track on the device, (and if it’s possible to set the gps in a demo mode so that you don’t have to go outside) check what data is available for data fields (distance to destination, time to destination, ETA at destination, waypoint at next, time to next, distance to next?) any of those data fields missing?
while navigating a track, is there an Active route page or application showing start, end, high and low points along the track and the distance to each of those points?
Does the altitude graph page shows anything similar to this graph when navigating a track? showing past and upcoming elevation?
link to images.outdoor-magazin.com
Your feedback is appreciated
There is no gps demo mode. Unfortunately there is no graph page for the upcoming elevation while navigating a course/calculated route – a outdoor watch with this capabilities has to have it! Garmin, please add this.
I wonder how can they launch the epix without updating GC mobile and/or basecamp mobile to be able to make and send wiressly standard tracks and tracks with guidance in points
Basecamp mobile isn´t supported anymore. Wireless data transfer (possible from oregon etc. to fenix 1/2 and vice versa) isn´t supported anymore, too. C:
Garmin, how will the user be able to transfer tracks/courses/wps without using pc/internet during a hike to the epix??? Please readd basecamp mobile support!
I was half expecting BaseCamp Mobile to be resurrected for the Epix, too, and since it’s early, maybe it still will be. But in this case, unless you’re hiking in Central Park in Manhattan, no cellular service in most places worth hiking means no internet for the phone, either. So you’d have to pre-load the phone with the tracks etc., anyway, and since the Epix has 8 Gb, you might as well just pre-load it instead.
I think it was posted to the Fenix3 thread, but in short, I asked Garmin about it. Don’t expect Basecamp mobile to get new life.
Instead, the functions will be folded into Garmin Connect Mobile (which probably makes more sense anyway). When I asked last a few months ago, they didn’t have a timeline for it, but were well aware of the pain without it. I’ll poke again next week once a unit is on the way to me.
It’s already in GCM, just not as we were expecting. The way they seem to want to go is that you use the website to create your course/waypoint and then just send to device. The device will use either direct Internet or will connect through Connect mobile (or Express) to get the files. This is already how apps are delivered, and courses. The thing we’re waiting on is the Connect website to support creation and management of waypoints and other proper navigational features. I would be surprised if the functionality to create waypoints will go into Connect mobile.
Of course, the discussion was in the context of the way the old Basecamp Mobile app worked (those features coming to GCM).
Ok, of it gets the same functionality as basecamp mobile (and perhaps some more), that would be ok. But they should hurry up a little bit- they decided month ago not to go with bcm for f3 and epix and should present us an alternative soon..
Ok, with 8 gb memory, I can put a lot of wps. etc.on my epix.
Did they confirm that the old basecamp features will actually be in the app locally Ray? I’d love to see that because the web version is a bit frustrating to use even without trying to do stuff like waypoint creation. It definitely looks like they want the Internet version to be the driver and the phone app to be a conduit for devices without wifi. They didn’t even integrate the app store, it just loads the web page within the app.
They weren’t comfortable nailing down a specific feature-list. However, the initiation of the discussion was primarily around Basecamp Mobile features (since it didn’t work on the Fenix3 any longer).
Obviously Basecamp Desktop has a boatload more features than Basecamp mobile, which was also extremely narrow in focus/features (far more than I think some realize).
I opened it the other day and you’re right it was very light on features. That’s what gave me the assumption that the web will handle it all since one primary feature is sending courses to the device, and that today is done from the website using GCM as a conduit (although it goes direct over wifi). Connect on the web currently doesn’t do waypoints at all as far as I can tell but it would seem to make sense that this is where it will be added, and that would pretty much match the current BCM functionality once done with the exception of offline transfers.
I’m not sure I see why there’s a fuss about offline transfer. If you’ve not transferred everything to the watch before you go on your trek it’s unlikely you’d have sent it all to the phone either. Waypoints can be created on the device so traditional paper nav would still be possible either way.
Another thing:
A friend just called me and told me proudly that his epix has arrived. He told me also, he isn’t able to load free osm maps on his epix, he always gets en error message on the epix “maps are not compatible..” or something like that. He is a long time Garmin user and knows how to use osm maps on Garmin devices. Can anybody confirm this?
Does he have any other Garmin maps to try installing, like the 24k which aren’t limited/locked? Maybe it’s a general thing for the new device, not just OSM.
I ordered mine from REI on the 11th of April – I should get it on May 26th. I have the City Navigator Maps and will try to install them as soon as I get it and let you know how it works :)
No, he just tried different osm maps. I will tell him to try some other map types…
He told me, that he has bought and downloaded cn nt maps and they work fine on the epix. Routing is working, too ( but a 190 miles routing takes about > 5 minutes (?) ).
So, maybe Garmin has banned free osm maps? Garmin is using own osm maps (routable osm westeuropa will be preinstalled on the new Garmin etrex 20x/30x in europe and they are selling some routable osm maps (Eastern Africa, Belarus and some others for 19,99 €).
I asked him to post here himself, but he told me ( he is over 70 years old), that he did not like/want it.
I think it’s very unlikely that they deliberately did something to keep OSM off the Epix. More likely, since it’s Garmin, the software is screwed up. If they did actually do something, I’m sure it won’t be long before someone figures out what and how to get around it.
Let`s see and wait, if other users also can`t use free osm maps. If so, perhaps you are right and it is a fw thing (I hope so!).
Yeah, me, too. It’ll be a month before I can try it myself, though. (I actually felt a little relieved when the 30 day REI exclusive was announced :-)).
>5 mins to route 190 miles is perfectly acceptable as this is not designed to be a vehicle satnav and nobody suddenly jumps into a car and travels 190 miles without a bit of foresight.
I’m interested though how the address search works or if you can only navigate to waypoints or targets that you’ve selected on the map screen?
I bought the City Navigator maps for $80+ from garmin and installed it, but I still can’t figure out how to get turn by turn directions to an address. :-(
You can’t enter an address for navigation! You can navigate to a saved location (waypoint (created before)), to coordinates, to a poi, to a map point.
Is there any address with a location? My intentions were to also replace my handheld, which is looking more and more like I should have bought the fenix and a handheld…
Seems that only few units are delivered? Anyone with one: please load a free routable osm map on the device and report, if the watch is working with it. Thanks!
So I checked with Garmin on the OSM piece. They didn’t offhand know if it broke those maps, but they noted that they occasionally tweak the allowed/block list in order to protect various licensed maps. They said that sometimes what happens is that the community maps will ‘copy’ various metadata attributes that are/were red-flagged.
They noted that in most cases it works itself out pretty quickly, but again, that they hadn’t looked into it yet. They did re-iterate that: “our intent is not to make our devices ‘unfriendly’ to open maps….that’s a losing battle for everyone involved.”
I will note that it sounds like only one (maybe two?) people have tried it – so it might work just fine and that for whatever reason it stumbled for that person. The Garmin folks hadn’t looked into it yet.
Did some more test with some different osm maps:
some maps don`t work, but some maps does:
link to forums.garmin.com
Seems to be, that the map compiler of the not working maps use something that the epix (or garmin (?)) don`t like.
Correction:
Openmtbmaps work now on my epix. Don`t know why 2 different tested openmtbmaps failed on my epix before.
Sorry for the confusion!!!
REI has the worldwide version in stock. I had to cancel my preorder and order another one(stupid). But I will have my unit on wednesday!
Also it shows stores on the west coast have them instock if you’re in that area.
I just picked up the Epix at REI Huntington Beach. Paid for it over the phone and drove 40 miles to get it, but it’s in my hands.
Thanks for the heads up.
I bought the city navigator maps and told it to map to the closest city (less than a mile supposedly) and after waiting 47 minutes, the map never loaded. I’m pretty disappointed so far. I’m going to return it and get the fenix if support can’t help.
Is the map enabled in the settings?bMenu>settings>map>configure Maps
Which routing settings in the used app?
How did you choose the closest city and started the routing?
I updated to the latest firmware and the routing is working now. In the German review they were able to choose motorcycle as a routing option but I can’t find anywhere to choose the routing style. I went to menu->map points->cities->go then you have to choose an activity like run, trail run I chose bike. I just tested again and it didn’t do routing just a straight line… After I cancelled the activity the watch rebooted… I think there are still a ton of bugs.
“The screen and the responsiveness is better than I thought it would be. In comparison to my wife’s vivoactive it is a lot quicker and the glass, vs. the plastic on the vivoactive” from greg above
Ouestion: why that difference between Epix and Vivoactive? Because of the material glass vs plastic..!??????? Hä?
Watching Greg´s video I must say the touch of Epix is awful ( horrible, dreadful) and not easy going.
My experience with the touch by 5 (yes, five, I had to swap it 4 times -not because of the touch but other notfunctions- till I got one that was good ) Garmin FR 620 was that on 3 watches the touch was ok just little differences .One was awful, like I see now in greg´s video with his Epix and one was excellent and a real “Girl Friday”
So I guess Garmin watches don`t have a constant quality concerning touch with their FR 620.
It would be a pity if the same happend with Epix. Or should I better say: I hope the touch would be as different as it was by my Garmin FR 620 , so you have perhaps the luck to get a touch that better works as I´ve seen by Greg´s Epix, because if I´m running fast I `ve not the nerves with a touch that doesn´t work fluently.
But we´ll see what Ray and others are reporting to that subject. ;-)
Seid herzlichst gegrüßt! Naomi
p.s: my Garmin FR 620 all have plastic and no glass display – even the excellent one. ;-)
Here a report about the epix (sorry, only in german) with some pics. Main focus on navigation/hiking (no fitness/sport):
link to naviboard.de
Thanks. Does the charging clip stay in place ok on the move?
The charging clip stays in place, but as you move your wrist (what everybody normally does), it is highly impractical / uncomfortable. If charging is needed during an activity, I would perhaps change the wearing from left to right arm (during a hike/ for sports not so good because of the (sports/fitness) data recording). But this is only my thought about that at the moment.
Epix just came in. REI gave me free overnight for cancelling my preorder. Im installing Garmins 24k maps at the moment. First impressions of the device, its big. I love it but I can see why some might not like it for everyday use. The touchscreen works fine from what I can tell setting up the device and whatnot. No lag. Also the charging cable snaps in sort of…im kind of worried it will wear out the top of the device after awhile but maybe im just being stupid. I did put the charging cable on with it on my wrist(left hand) it didnt bother me really but you might want to wear it on your right if you’re going to need charge and wear at same time as mentioned in the comment above. It did feel snug though, so if you’re worried about it falling out i wouldn’t. I will try to do a video and more impressions in a bit.
I made a quick video. Its raining here so I thought id see how the epix touchscreen did in the rain. It does pretty well actually. There is no commentary since I had the Virb held up by my mouth haha. Not the best video but you get the idea atleast.
link to youtube.com
Also, watch looks huge!
Hi Kyle
I beg your pardon but what do you mean with “It does pretty well actually.” ??????
To wipe 6 times and getting no reaction! WOW!
No “Girl Friday” that watch! IMVHO!
´n Lachen und `n Knuff!
Naomi
That one spot you are referring to was pretty much the only time it gave me problems. If you’ve ever used your phone in any kind of rain its pretty useless. I dont have a Garmin Handheld GPS so i cant speak on how they work. If i had to use this in the rain and didnt want to use the buttons it would be fine
Thanks Kyle, great vid. Is it me or does the watch mistake you swiping to go out of the maps for wanting to pan within the maps? What are the acquisition times like, I’m expecting stellar?
There is a “back” button the bottom right of the maps thats hard to see on the video. I think what you’re referring to is when i accidentally hit that when swiping.
The screen is small to pinch to zoom with your fingers but its fine for pressing the “+” and “-” on the screen. You can also use the buttons.
GPS satellites took 15 maybe 30 seconds to get. Much better than the Fenix 3 I had. Panning the map, the maps load a tad slow but nothing really to complain about.
I posted a couple photos to show you how the 24k maps looks routable. Also the Waypoint data field cuts off your text if its long. With 4 data fields going the long way it looks like it has 8 characters and going 4 blocks it has 12 character range. I still havent really found an easy way to skip waypoint and go to the next one. You can go on the map and manually select it but it would be easier just to do it the way Suunto does. Maybe there is and i haven’t found a way yet.
link to drive.google.com
Awesome Kyle, thanks for being a giver ‘cos sharing is caring.
I just got my shipment notification for my Epix and it will be here on Friday – ready to share my experience with it!
Mines going back. I did a 10 mile hike and then tried to route back to my starting point and the watch rebooted, lost all my steps and info about the hike. I can’t get the routing to work correct even after talking with support. It’ll show the turns but then the map suddenly changes back to a straight line to the destination. Maybe I got a lemon? If the add on maps don’t work than the fenix 3 is light years ahead cosmetically and provides nearly the same functionality. I really want this watch to just work! I’ve been lusting after it since its announcement and now I’ve been let down. P.S. Before updating the firmware, the touch was very responsive but that’s no longer the case.
That does not sound promising. Wonder if the delay in shipping is really distribution problem ( this is what Garmin told me, when I asked them about availability) – or a fundamental problem with the software or with the hardware. At this point, I am not too much convinced if I should wait for this product, or try somewhere else.
I think there is something wrong with your device. Maybe, you have got a lemon. Mine is working fine with fw 2.20.
Was this problem a one time problem or do you have it every time?
I have had a few reboots myself. Mostly when I try to do a Navigation Course but it works when I go back into it after it reboots. Ive got a couple day hiking trip this weekend which will make my mind up I believe. My main complaint is not being able to quickly select/skip waypoints.
Here is a run I did with the epix and ambit 2s. Ignore the time because i had to walk twice, one because my bluetooth headphones died and for a small part of the woods the trail is grown in so i have to walk through that since the guy wont let you walk along the woodline to get to the road. Also im a terrible runner(Just started running a month ago.) who mountain bikes and hikes alot more.
You can see a very small sample on how it does with treecover, most of forest part is trail, its very small though. Im going on a 2 day hiking trip this weekend so ill compare there also.
Of note…Both devices were 1sec recording. At the end the ambit 2 read .3 higher for mileage. (2.67 vs 2.70)
link to mygpsfiles.com
Also..In Garmin Connect the time is only about ten second off, but when I export as gpx and upload it to the site reads alot longer or some reason.
Thanks for posting that Kyle dont suppose you did the same with your old fenix 3 and Ambit?
looks like the uk guys and girls going to be the last to get there’s
Uh-oh. What have you heard Shane? Cotswold have gone a bit quiet.
Should have been last Friday or the start of this week was the last I got?
Yeah I heard Garmin lie and then invent stories and basically put their poor customer service reps on the front line of very uncomfortable situations and over promise and under deliver in the UK.
Mine was just delivered – I will be going on a run and swim later – anything you guys want me to look out for while trying it out for the first time.
I already love it! Fluid movement on the touch screen and no glitches yet just playing around the settings.
Hi folks,
I ´ll get mine tomorrow! :-)
Herzlichst! Naomi from Germany
p.s.: my first Epix and last one I hope ! ;-)
p.p.s.s: Meaning it`ll be a ” Girl Friday” , if coming on Friday ;-)
It’s going to look a bit like olive oil wearing her boots or a pea wearing a baseball cap.
I still think its ridiculous Ray doesn’t have a unit yet. He should have had his 3 weeks ago when they started popping up around the Garmin pages. Between the Fenix 3 and Epix Garmin has lied to him not to mention communicated horribly to consumers about shipping times.
How do you know he doesn’t have his unit yet? He hasn’t mentioned anything so far this week. Or did I miss something?
He should have his unit a few weeks before it goes on sale. I don’t see what you’re point is with being a hobby. I never stated Ray has a unit and not saying. He usually does YouTube videos leading up to the review. Obviously you guys didn’t pay attention to the Fenix 3 release when same thing happened.
Shoulda…coulda…woulda.
I’ve long since given up on trying to figure out which products I get ahead of time and which ones I wait for. Sometimes I think it’s tied to which ones they think are rougher.
I don’t have Epix yet, though I’ve had Vector2 for a bit now. I might walk down the street and see if the store there has the Epix unit in stock and pick one up. Heading down to the Alps next week, so seems appropriate.
Ray, On a side note, before when were were disagreeing about the Fenix 3 altimeter on the Fenix 3 review comments…..now that I have the Epix the Altimeter is spot on so just like the GPS in the F3 unit I had I guess the Altimeter was screwed up also. All is good in the world
Normally he gets his test unit a month before the official release (I think so), that he can release his ” test report” in time with the unit release…maybe something went wrong due to garmin, perhaps he didn’t have time to test…
This here is something like a hobby for him and he spend his spare time with it (and he does always a great job!). Thanks a lot for this!
Will these maps work on the Epix? Especially the Topo Summer or Topo Summer II
link to frikart.no
How do you access the apps while you are in an activity?? If I am in an activity, I want to be able to use the Music Controller and as soon as I hit the back button to go back to my apps, it thinks I want to use the LAP button since the BAC/LAP button are the same – this make no sense. I thought I might be able to add it as a data field or page but it wont allow me to. Same with the MAP, do they think I wont want to view the map during an activity? I hope I am just doing something wrong.
I am actually going to read the manual now :D :D
You can enable the map page in each activity. Settings:apps (choose one): data screen:scroll down to map
From an activity on the widget page: long press on the down button, back to the activity with pressing the back button
I just did a long press on the down button and it did exactly what I was wanting :)
Thanks! I am usually pretty good at this stuff lol.
While I was messing around in the settings, I realized it had the option to stick to roads – I am going to try the 24k maps again and see if they work with that because yesterday they just drew a straight line but I wasn’t aware of that setting. SO MANY SETTINGS lol
“Straight line” sounds for me, if “direct routing” is enabled. To route on the streets you must choose a different one, for example “hike” ( if the 24k map is routable).
Will someone please let me know if the Epix will do paperless geocaching?
I have a pre-order through LL Bean, but will be canceling it and sticking with the Fenix 2 if the Epix doesn’t do Geocaching. Thanks advance!
My epix doesn’t support paperless geocaching at the moment. Don’t know, if it generally not support it if or will be added/activated with a upcoming few update. Perhaps dc knows more?