Garmin Fenix 8 vs. Garmin Fenix 7: Nine key differences explained

Everything you need to consider when choosing between Fenix 8 and Fenix 7.

It's now been well over a year since Garmin unveiled Fenix 8, giving us plenty of time to test all its key differences from the last-gen Fenix 7 and Fenix 7 Pro.

Released in 2022, Fenix 7 remains an outstanding watch for outdoor adventurers and those serious about tracking their fitness. With notable upgrades in the sensor accuracy and the addition of a built-in flashlight, Fenix 7 Pro (released in 2023) is also a top watch to consider.

Yet, the allure of a new Fenix is hard to escape—and Garmin made some significant changes for the latest generation. A revamped UI helps align the Fenix 8 range with the latest Forerunners, and there's also a brighter flashlight and a speaker/mic array with assistant support.

But which is best in %currentyear%% and beyond? Well, we now have sufficient experience with both of these Garmin Fenix generations to provide an updated assessment. Here are the nine biggest factors to consider when choosing between Fenix 8 and Fenix 7/7 Pro.

• Garmin Fenix 7 vs. Garmin Fenix 7 Pro
• Every Garmin watch explained—and which is best

1. Price

Fenix 8 range originally launched as the more premium successor to the Fenix 7 series, but comparing the two generations is not as straightforward as it may seem. Garmin changed several aspects of the lineup, including display options, materials, and model configurations, making direct comparisons between equivalent models a little more complicated.

This is further complicated by the sheer number of variations available across both generations, with Garmin offering different case sizes, materials, and feature sets. Fenix 8 remains the newer and more advanced option, while the Fenix 7 series continues to appeal to those looking for many of the same core features in an older generation.

You can check the latest availability below and see how the remaining Fenix 7 deals compare with the newer Fenix 8 series.

2. Choose between AMOLED and MIP

The most significant change for the Fenix 8 generation is undoubtedly Garmin's overhaul of the display options. This decision has effectively seen the demise of the Epix range.

If you want an AMOLED version of Fenix 7/Fenix 7 Pro, consider the Epix (Gen 2) or Epix Pro (Gen 2). Save for some minor quirks and the displays—explained in this Garmin Fenix 7 Pro vs. Epix Pro (Gen 2) guide—these are the same watches.

However, for Fenix 8, you no longer choose between Fenix and Epix. Epix has been ditched and is now part of Fenix 8 family, though not at the expense of the classic memory-in-pixel models.

If you prefer the old-school technology, Garmin has retained the MIP panel available on Fenix 7 and 7 Pro. As with the latter release, the solar charging feature is still standard (on the 47mm and 51mm models; more below).

To summarize, there are now five standard Fenix 8 watches to choose from instead of the usual three: three sizes of Fenix 8 AMOLED and two sizes of Fenix 8 Solar (MIP).

Got all that? Good, because Garmin has thrown in another curveball...

3. Don't get caught out by changes to Fenix 'S' models

Since Garmin Fenix 5 launched, fans could pick between 42mm, 47mm, and 51mm case sizes, with the smaller and larger versions denoted by 'S' and 'X' tags.

For Fenix 7 and Fenix 7 Pro lines, that's the choice of sizes.

However, with Fenix 8, Garmin quietly increased the size of the smallest model to 43mm—and it's now only available if you choose the AMOLED model. The Solar edition/MIP model starts at 47mm.

4. New features from other devices that won't trickle down

After announcing numerous new run-focused features for Forerunner 970 and Forerunner 570, it also emerged that many of them will trickle over to Fenix 8 lineup (and its derivatives).

For those not familiar with these just-announced features, they include 'Running Tolerance' (which helps users avoid overtraining by estimating their weekly output limit) and 'Impact Load Factor' (an estimate of the toll on the body).

Those paired with the HRM 600 chest strap also gained access to Step Speed Loss and Running Economy, two advanced metrics designed to provide deeper insight into running efficiency.

Those features have since rolled out to the Fenix 8 family through Garmin software updates. However, Garmin has not extended them to the previous-generation Fenix 7 lineup, leaving those watches without the newer running metrics.

5. Durability specs

The Fenix range has always boasted a rugged look and specs to match. The 10 ATM water resistance rating, titanium case, and option of a sapphire crystal glass display have ensured that we've never experienced significant bumps, scrapes, or scratches during long-term testing of Fenix 7 Pro.

Yet, Garmin has bumped things up slightly for Fenix 8. Each model now features leakproof metal buttons as standard, as well as a new sensor guard. This now encompasses more of the case's right edge, shown above, rather than around the Start/Stop button on the Fenix 7 series.

We don't suspect this will be a dealbreaker for most, but it is a good reason to upgrade if you plan to use your Fenix regularly in outdoor water conditions, like diving.

6. Operating system skins

One of our great wishes for the Fenix 8 range was that Garmin would switch from its “outdoor” operating system to that seen in the AMOLED Forerunner range, like the Forerunner 970 and Forerunner 570.

That was granted, with Garmin citing “improved graphics” for the latest models that match what we've seen in its modern running watches.

We don't have anything against Fenix 7/Fenix 7 Pro's (and Epix Gen 2) skin, but graphics like Morning Report and the list of glances are much more basic and don't pop in quite the same way as they do on the Fenix 8.

It's a superficial difference. However, from our experience over the last couple of years using both skins, we would grade it as one of the biggest differentiators in daily use with these devices.

It's not a change slated to roll back in a software update to the Fenix 7 series, either.

7. Strength training and mapping

Garmin typically throws in the odd exclusive software cherry for each new generation. For Fenix 7 Pro, the last update, we saw Endurance Score and Hill Score debut before rolling back to other premium Garmin watches.

For Fenix 8, this has taken the form of guided strength programs and improved mapping. The former comprises 4-6-week, personalized follow-along workouts designed to help athletes like trail runners, surfers, and others meet their goals.

The mapping changes, meanwhile, are mainly down to that new skin. Garmin says the interface allows users to view terrain contours on the TopoActive maps, customize map layers, and enjoy easier round-trip routing. Suggested routes are also featured.

None of these Fenix 8s have since been rolled back to the Fenix 7 generation. Given that a December 2024 update from Garmin brought some of these features to premium Forerunner devices but not the Fenix 7 range, it's not in the plans.

8. Communication and voice commands

Surprisingly, the Fenix 7 series doesn't have a built-in speaker or microphone. Instead, you must pair headphones to receive readouts about guided workouts, lap times, or other updates.

It's an omission that's never particularly bothered us, but it's changed for Fenix 8. As standard, each model comes with a speaker and a microphone. This not only enables feedback regarding workouts but opens up voice commands, too.

No matter which model you choose, setting timers, starting workouts, and plenty else is now possible. And you won't have to have your phone connected for this to work, which is a real boon.

In truth, we've barely used the speaker feature in the six months we've been wearing the Fenix 8—primarily due to always pairing headphones for workouts. However, the novel inclusion of smart commands can sometimes prove handy (and ups the line's otherwise paltry smarts).

9. Solar charging

Garmin says Fenix 8 is much better at harnessing the sun's energy than Fenix 7. The 51mm has improved in this regard by 50%.

We've tested Fenix 7 Pro Solar 47mm and other Garmin devices with the feature but remain unconvinced it's a valuable addition.

That solar panel has to spend a lot of time in direct sunlight to have any meaningful impact on battery life. If you spend upwards of 10 hours in those kinds of conditions, it might be a factor. But if staying power means a lot to you, consider the Garmin Enduro 3.

Note, too, that this feature isn't offered for the 43mm Fenix 8. If you prefer a smaller Fenix model with solar support, consider Fenix 7S or 7S Pro.

Verdict: Fenix 8 vs. Fenix 7/7 Pro

The gap between these generations is wider than usual. In previous years, choosing the older model meant missing out on minor battery tweaks or a slightly faster processor. Choosing Fenix 7 means missing out on an entirely new operating system, a modernized display experience, and genuine hardware utility in the form of the speaker/mic array and leakproof buttons.

• You should buy the Garmin Fenix 8 if:

You want the absolute best, and price is no object. The Fenix 8 is the definitive outdoor watch. The consolidated choice between AMOLED and Solar/MIP in one family simplifies the buying process, while the revamped UI aligns it with the slick experience of the Forerunner series.

Crucially, if you want access to the latest training metrics like Running Tolerance and Impact Load, or you plan on recreational diving, Fenix 8 is the only path forward.

• You should buy the Garmin Fenix 7 Pro if:

You want the "smart" buy. Fenix 7 Pro remains the sweet spot in Garmin’s lineup. It shares the critical Elevate Gen 5 heart rate sensor and the built-in LED flashlight with Fenix 8, meaning you aren't sacrificing the core tracking accuracy or the most useful hardware tool.

If you can live without the voice assistant features (which we rarely used) and the glitzy new UI, Fenix 7 Pro offers 95% of the performance for significantly less money.

• You should buy the Garmin Fenix 7 if:

You are budget-conscious and strictly focused on endurance. The standard Fenix 7 is an incredible bargain. You miss out on the flashlight and the Multi-Band GPS accuracy of the Pro/8 models, but for pure ruggedness and battery life per dollar, it is unmatched.