The newest iteration of the top-tier Fenix outdoor timepiece introduces a potentially lifesaving feature: no-phone messaging and emergency messaging via 4G LTE or satellite links.
This Fenix 8 Pro upgrades the previously impressive Fenix 8 by incorporating new cellular tech, plus an optional advanced microLED screen in a limited edition. This is Garmin's top device and engineered to be the only tool required to explore almost anywhere and monitor every activity.
That positions it as an very pricey proposition, starting at £1,030 (€1,200, $1,200, A$2,300) for the 47mm OLED version and reaching a substantial £1,730 (€2,000/$2,000/A$3,399) for the 51mm variant with microLED display – almost twice the price of the standard Fenix 8.
Users get a significant features for your investment, with industry-leading fitness, activity and outdoor monitoring. Its complete offline mapping of the globe can automatically direct you back to the path if you lose your way absent a phone, and appear excellent on the large, crisp and super-bright touchscreen.
The Fenix 8 Pro is exclusively offered in 47mm or 51mm case sizes, omitting the smaller 43mm version available in other devices, so it is a big watch for larger wrists. However the 47mm OLED version as tested does have an additional day of smartwatch battery life despite the display always active, enduring a reliable eight to nine days between charging.
Phone-Free Texting, Calls and Live Tracking
Garmin operates its own inReach LTE (4G) and orbital subscription plan instead of relying on a watch plan tied to your mobile provider, like other wearables. However unlike competing satellite-capable devices, emergency communication is not included for free.
Rather, subscriptions start at £7.99 or similar a month, which includes limitless LTE SMS and voice messaging, call functionality and LiveTrack position sharing – so your friends or family can keep an eye on you while out running, cycling or comparable activities – along with SOS orbital SOS alerts.
Location updates and texts via orbital are then billed additionally, with more expensive plans including different quotas of orbital use, increasing to a £50 a month all-inclusive subscription. The watch comes with a 30-day trial period so you can evaluate the service.
Once you have completed setup, you just head out the door minus your phone and the watch will connect to LTE. You cannot use it for streaming music or comparable tasks, but you can place and receive calls, send texts and generally stay connected with your relatives and companions.
When you text someone, Garmin dispatches them an SMS from a arbitrary phone number, which they can respond to directly to your watch. If they download the Garmin Messenger application, you can then message reciprocally via typed or voice communications, and make voice calls. Your contact does not need a Garmin account to use the Messenger app, just a mobile number is sufficient to register for texts.
Texting on the watch functions adequately but composing texts on the small on-screen keyboard is time-consuming. It has a collection of personalizable pre-set replies you can use to expedite communication. Voice messages and calls work acceptably, though as with most wearables, you’re unlikely going to want to use it for extended discussions as the quality is less than fantastic.
LiveTrack is the handiest function. You can set it up to on its own send a link to chosen contacts whenever you start an exercise, so they can track your live position on a map. It’s excellent for monitoring competition performance, but it mostly acts as a tool for someone you trust to be aware of your whereabouts in case something happens. It has typically worked well, though the actual position has sometimes been delayed when moving in and out of strong LTE coverage.
These features are accessible on other Garmin devices if you bring your phone with you, but in locations where LTE does not reach, the orbital kicks in on the Fenix 8 Pro to send texts, location check-ins and emergency SOS.
A on-screen assistance shows you how to find the clear view to the orbital system, which then sends and receives messages within about 10 to 30 seconds. It was surprisingly straightforward to use and could be a vital safety feature, however it is essential to note that orbital coverage is limited to the US continent, the majority of Canada, and most of Europe except for parts of Scandinavia above 65 degrees north.
Sustainability
The watch is generally serviceable with services available through the customer service site. The battery is certified to retain at least 90% of its original capacity after two years of regular charging. The watch lacks any recycled components. Garmin provides recycling schemes on new purchases.
Price
This Fenix 8 Pro costs from £1,029.99 (€1,199.99/$1,199.99/A$2,299). The additional Garmin inReach service plans begin from £7.99 (€9.99/$7.99/A$13.50).
Conclusion
This Fenix 8 Pro builds on a fantastic outdoor watch in the standard Fenix 8 and incorporates LTE for messaging, call functionality and LiveTrack – along with satellite communication, location update and emergency SOS for when you’re without coverage.
Outcome is an even more remarkable adventure tool for those that desire to be unplugged. If you wish to have someone monitor you remotely while exercising out at night or in the remote areas, the Garmin does so without needing anything else.
This is very freeing to be outdoors without a phone, but that functionality carries a significant price, both in terms of the colossal price of the watch and the monthly fee of the inReach plan to enable the service. At least it is not dependent on your phone provider so works with all make of smartphone and network.
This Fenix 8 Pro is a top-tier device for someone who hates being weighed down by their phone when running, biking or hiking, but nevertheless wants to be trackable and reachable. For everyone else, it is a significant money when the excellent Fenix 8 is already available.
Pros: LTE and satellite communication, super-bright OLED display, tracks everything with best-in-class GPS, built-in torch, voice and offline voice control, 8+ day battery life, Garmin Pay, full offline mapping and routes, offline Spotify, 100-metre waterproofing and 40-metre underwater use, physical controls and touch.
Cons: very costly, LTE and orbital features require monthly subscription, limited Garmin Pay financial support, speech capabilities are slow, basic smartwatch functionality compared with competing watches.
