Garmin Fenix 5X Sapphire - Black
The Fēnix 5X Sapphire Multisport GPS Watch from Garmin is built for athletes and adventurers. It’s the first Fēnix series watch to offer full-colour European recreational mapping for at-a-glance navigation and location reference – so you can beat yesterday, and be sure of getting back. You get training features such as Elevate wrist based heart rate monitor, built-in activity profiles, advanced performance metrics and training status readings that allow you to train more efficiently towards achieving your goals. For your convenience on the move the screen boasts a high resolution, full-colour Garmin Chroma display which assures great readability at any time, even if the sun is shining. The Sapphire lens is tough and durable too so you can wear it 24/7 with excellent confidence while smart notifications help you stay in touch on the go. You can fully customise the watch utilising apps from Garmin Connect while also having the freedom to change the Quickfit wrist strap easily, without the fuss of tools (Quickfit 26 wrist straps sold separately). The Fēnix 5X offers you all you need to know about your training and how to improve your stats as well as indicating your level of fitness and advising when to rest to avoid unnecessary strain on your body. Advanced activity and sleep tracking helps to give you a better overview of your activity levels so you know where there is room for improvement. You can set your own challenges, race yourself or put your friends to the test while keeping tabs on their progress with Group Track paired devices. A great multisport gadget that gives you true insights into your own progress no matter how unique your fitness regime is.
The Fēnix 5X Sapphire Multisport GPS Watch from Garmin is built for athletes and adventurers. It’s the first Fēnix series watch to offer full-colour European recreational mapping for at-a-glance navigation and location reference – so you can beat yesterday, and be sure of getting back. You get training features such as Elevate wrist based heart rate monitor, built-in activity profiles, advanced performance metrics and training status readings that allow you to train more efficiently towards achieving your goals. For your convenience on the move the screen boasts a high resolution, full-colour Garmin Chroma display which assures great readability at any time, even if the sun is shining. The Sapphire lens is tough and durable too so you can wear it 24/7 with excellent confidence while smart notifications help you stay in touch on the go. You can fully customise the watch utilising apps from Garmin Connect while also having the freedom to change the Quickfit wrist strap easily, without the fuss of tools (Quickfit 26 wrist straps sold separately). The Fēnix 5X offers you all you need to know about your training and how to improve your stats as well as indicating your level of fitness and advising when to rest to avoid unnecessary strain on your body. Advanced activity and sleep tracking helps to give you a better overview of your activity levels so you know where there is room for improvement. You can set your own challenges, race yourself or put your friends to the test while keeping tabs on their progress with Group Track paired devices. A great multisport gadget that gives you true insights into your own progress no matter how unique your fitness regime is.
The Fēnix 5X Sapphire Multisport GPS Watch from Garmin is built for athletes and adventurers. It’s the first Fēnix series watch to offer full-colour European recreational mapping for at-a-glance navigation and location reference – so you can beat yesterday, and be sure of getting back. You get training features such as Elevate wrist based heart rate monitor, built-in activity profiles, advanced performance metrics and training status readings that allow you to train more efficiently towards achieving your goals. For your convenience on the move the screen boasts a high resolution, full-colour Garmin Chroma display which assures great readability at any time, even if the sun is shining. The Sapphire lens is tough and durable too so you can wear it 24/7 with excellent confidence while smart notifications help you stay in touch on the go. You can fully customise the watch utilising apps from Garmin Connect while also having the freedom to change the Quickfit wrist strap easily, without the fuss of tools (Quickfit 26 wrist straps sold separately). The Fēnix 5X offers you all you need to know about your training and how to improve your stats as well as indicating your level of fitness and advising when to rest to avoid unnecessary strain on your body. Advanced activity and sleep tracking helps to give you a better overview of your activity levels so you know where there is room for improvement. You can set your own challenges, race yourself or put your friends to the test while keeping tabs on their progress with Group Track paired devices. A great multisport gadget that gives you true insights into your own progress no matter how unique your fitness regime is.
The Fēnix 5X Sapphire Multisport GPS Watch from Garmin is built for athletes and adventurers. It’s the first Fēnix series watch to offer full-colour European recreational mapping for at-a-glance navigation and location reference – so you can beat yesterday, and be sure of getting back. You get training features such as Elevate wrist based heart rate monitor, built-in activity profiles, advanced performance metrics and training status readings that allow you to train more efficiently towards achieving your goals. For your convenience on the move the screen boasts a high resolution, full-colour Garmin Chroma display which assures great readability at any time, even if the sun is shining. The Sapphire lens is tough and durable too so you can wear it 24/7 with excellent confidence while smart notifications help you stay in touch on the go. You can fully customise the watch utilising apps from Garmin Connect while also having the freedom to change the Quickfit wrist strap easily, without the fuss of tools (Quickfit 26 wrist straps sold separately). The Fēnix 5X offers you all you need to know about your training and how to improve your stats as well as indicating your level of fitness and advising when to rest to avoid unnecessary strain on your body. Advanced activity and sleep tracking helps to give you a better overview of your activity levels so you know where there is room for improvement. You can set your own challenges, race yourself or put your friends to the test while keeping tabs on their progress with Group Track paired devices. A great multisport gadget that gives you true insights into your own progress no matter how unique your fitness regime is.
in 6 offers
The lowest price for Garmin Fenix 5X Sapphire - Black right now is $420.18 at eBay.com.au, compared across 4 retailers.
The all-time low was $221.13 on 15 July 2025 — today's price is 90% above the lowest ever. It has been notably cheaper before — worth setting a price alert.
Prices last updated 29 July 2026.
Last updated at 29/07/2026 04:06:56
Garmin Fenix 5x Gps Smartwatch Black
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Garmin Fenix 5x Slate Gray Sapphire Black Band Gps Multisport Watch
Delivery $105.43
Affiliate Disclosure: We may receive a small commission for purchases made through this link at no extra cost to you. This helps support our site. Thank you!
Garmin 010-01733-01
Free delivery
Garmin Fenix 5X Sapphire slate gray with black band, 010-01733-10)
Delivery $48
Garmin Fenix 5X Sapphire slate gray with black band, 010-01733-01 (EU)
Delivery $48
NEW Sealed Garmin Fenix 5X Sapphire Edition Slate Grey with Black Band GPS Watch
Delivery between 2–6 Aug $35.88
originally posted on ebay.com
Garmin Fenex 5x is the best smartwatche at value today. The Fenex 6 is the newer model so the Fenex 5 has recently gone down in price. It covers all the basic smartwatche functions needed in today's world and has additional features that active users can take advantage of. Pros: -Sapphire watch screen is pretty indestructible as watch faces go. Even refurbished watches have god screens and beet up everything else. -Easily replaceable bands. -Good heart monitor -Waterproof enough to swim or shower with -Good GPS system that uses multiple constellations of satellites. -Health tracking easy to use and accurate -Good interface back and forth with smartphone, I can reply to texts and receive updates. -Good market with custom watchfaces and apps. -Easy to find a watch ... MoreGarmin Fenex 5x is the best smartwatche at value today. The Fenex 6 is the newer model so the Fenex 5 has recently gone down in price. It covers all the basic smartwatche functions needed in today's world and has additional features that active users can take advantage of. Pros: -Sapphire watch screen is pretty indestructible as watch faces go. Even refurbished watches have god screens and beet up everything else. -Easily replaceable bands. -Good heart monitor -Waterproof enough to swim or shower with -Good GPS system that uses multiple constellations of satellites. -Health tracking easy to use and accurate -Good interface back and forth with smartphone, I can reply to texts and receive updates. -Good market with custom watchfaces and apps. -Easy to find a watch face I like that meets my display needs. -Widgets and apps easy to use on watch. -the 5x comes preloaded with topo maps of the US that show run routes, hikes, bike rides, etc. If this does not matter to you get the 5 and save money. Cons -Not the best GPS, If you run in a dense city or forest look at Fenex 6 with more powerful GPS. -Maps are hard to interface with. Little disappointed in comparison to my fortrex. Does great tracking of where I am and where I was, hard to route plan. -No call feature on watch, can only pickup phone calls. This feature is traded for waterproofing and I agree with the feature trade. -GPS mode drains battery to 12 ish hours, longer races are a no with this watch. Overall very pleased with this watch. It meets all my basic needs and being the older model it's currently very affordable. The Fenex 6 only improves things this watch does and does not add very many new features.
originally posted on bestbuy.ca
First off, I am NOT a techie and am in my middle 60's. I was happy with my existing watch, but as I like to hike, mountain bike, and paddle, my kids decided that I should have a GPS watch. I really wasn't convinced that I needed one, or more importantly, even wanted one and figured that they were kind of a gimmick. However, after continued urging from my kids who had pooled money for the purchase of a GPS watch, some internet searching and also advice from others who own GPS watches, I settled on the Garmin Fenix 5X, even though I thought is was unlikely it would supplant my trusty Timex Ironman.When I got it, my first impression was that it was huge and that I would probably be really uncomfortable wearing it. I put it on and it turns out that I was wrong! Aside ... MoreFirst off, I am NOT a techie and am in my middle 60's. I was happy with my existing watch, but as I like to hike, mountain bike, and paddle, my kids decided that I should have a GPS watch. I really wasn't convinced that I needed one, or more importantly, even wanted one and figured that they were kind of a gimmick. However, after continued urging from my kids who had pooled money for the purchase of a GPS watch, some internet searching and also advice from others who own GPS watches, I settled on the Garmin Fenix 5X, even though I thought is was unlikely it would supplant my trusty Timex Ironman.When I got it, my first impression was that it was huge and that I would probably be really uncomfortable wearing it. I put it on and it turns out that I was wrong! Aside from when I wear shirts that have tight cuffs that don't slide easily over the watch, I don't even notice that I have a larger watch on - it is very comfortable.Even though comfortable, I was still not sure that I would use it much, and am the first to admit that the capabilities of this watch go far, far beyond what I will ever use it for! However, I have found that I use it all the time. Its handy as its always there on my wrist and I can use the activity widgets to track my walks, hikes, bikes, and paddles. (Note that it will track many, many more activities that this, but these are the things that I use if for.) Often before getting the watch, people would ask me how far I went when I did my activities and I never really knew but would give them what I would call a mental estimate. Now I know! And, while doing my activities, I can monitor my elevation changes and pulse in real time. I have to say that I find having the kind of information the watch delivers a very positive motivator for being active and I never would have expected that.Another nice feature is having the GPS map right on my wrist. Often I will hike or mountain bike into areas I am not familiar with. (The GPS map even includes many local trail names that are not on my Oregon 450 GPS with Canada TOPO map.) Having the map allows me to see at a glance where my wanderings have taken me relative to trails and as my route is constantly tracked, I can easily see if there are shortcuts to "get home" when the daylight is beginning to run out or I'm getting hungry! Likewise if I am ocean paddling and the fog comes in, I have my route out right on my wrist and I can follow it backwards to get safely back home.I have not had the watch long enough to make much use of all of the parameters regarding training and physiology that it tracks that get downloaded to Garmin Connect on a smart phone (which I don't own) or computer. I am sure that I will never really scratch the surface in that department, however just the simple day to day information that I get from the Fenix 5X is impressive, and it gives me self satisfaction that I can see it at a glance. Who doesn't want to know that the activity they just did burned off 1057 calories!For me, one of the highlights of the Garmin Connect is that the download shows what you have done. As an example, for a hike, some of the things shown are a map of your route and it gives metrics along the way including elevation, pace, heart rate, and temperature (not sure how accurate this is based on the fact that the watch is often covered during winter), calories burned, distance travelled, Aerobic and Anerobic Training Effects, steps per minute (average and maximum), speed (average and maximum) and of course elapsed time.I don't know how long it will run on a charge and from what I have read, that depends on what you are using it for. Use of the GPS function will use up battery much faster than if it is just being used as a watch for example. I do find that as I am active every day or so, I connect it to my computer through the USB cable supplied with the watch and when that it connected the watch charges up quite quickly.So as an early user, I would say that I am very surprised just how much I really like my Fenix 5X and the information that it provides! Knowing what I know now, I would strongly recommend this watch to anyone who goes in the back country or out on the water as a valuable tool - not just a gimmick! The added benefit is that getting all that information it can provide is kind of fun!
originally posted on rebelsport.com.au
I was frustrated with Apple, I felt the screen was too easy to scratch and the wrist raise detection didn't always work (I owned the Apple watch 2), I had to tap the screen to tell the time. Going to Fenix5x sapphire is more like a normal watch so if there is not enough light you cannot read the time but it has a light button for night. In direct sun watch is so easy to read, indoors when there is low ambient light can be a bit difficult. Unlike the Apple watch you cannot write on the screen, as it is not a touch screen, you have to navigate with buttons, and reply to texts with preset replies. But it also means that you won't get any accidental screen touches from water, which is better for the more active users (ie sweat on fingers confuses Apple watch). One of ... MoreI was frustrated with Apple, I felt the screen was too easy to scratch and the wrist raise detection didn't always work (I owned the Apple watch 2), I had to tap the screen to tell the time. Going to Fenix5x sapphire is more like a normal watch so if there is not enough light you cannot read the time but it has a light button for night. In direct sun watch is so easy to read, indoors when there is low ambient light can be a bit difficult. Unlike the Apple watch you cannot write on the screen, as it is not a touch screen, you have to navigate with buttons, and reply to texts with preset replies. But it also means that you won't get any accidental screen touches from water, which is better for the more active users (ie sweat on fingers confuses Apple watch). One of the best features is battery life, you can go away for a weekend and not need to take the charger (unlike Apple), you can even sleep with the watch and it will tell you how well you slept. Someone complained about the buckle digging into the wrist, I also experienced this but the strap has 2 free loops/rings, which when you position right against the buckle takes off some of the pressure from the buckle, Now I don't notice the buckle (its been a couple of months now). One thing I have noticed is that the Garmin records less steps than the Apple, ie always used to hit 8K steps at work now I barely hit 6K steps, no difference in jobs just seems less sensitive, which means I have to go for a walk to hit my 10k a day. The watch graphics is not anywhere as nice as the Apple, so I felt a little let down, reminded me of a colour gameboy screen. It also took me quite a while to find a watch face that I liked and gave me the information that I wanted. Some watch faces are better than others, the Garmin also has wrist raise detection and some watch faces react to this, ie the one I use keeps the watch face upto date regardless of whether I look at it or not. A watch face I stopped using only updated the time when it detected a wrist raise, and if it didn't it still had some other time listed. I was late to an appointment because of this. For people who like the Apple phone finder feature Fenix5x also can find your phone (really glad it has it)
| General | |
| Product Type | GPS/GLONASS watch |
| Recommended Use | Hiking, cycle, Golf, running, swimming |
| Interface | USB, Bluetooth, Wi-Fi |
| Aerial | Built-in |
Garmin Fenix 5x Gps Smartwatch Black
Free delivery
Affiliate Disclosure: We may receive a small commission for purchases made through this link at no extra cost to you. This helps support our site. Thank you!
Garmin Fenix 5x Slate Gray Sapphire Black Band Gps Multisport Watch
Delivery $105.43
Affiliate Disclosure: We may receive a small commission for purchases made through this link at no extra cost to you. This helps support our site. Thank you!
Garmin 010-01733-01
Free delivery
Garmin Fenix 5X Sapphire slate gray with black band, 010-01733-10)
Delivery $48
Garmin Fenix 5X Sapphire slate gray with black band, 010-01733-01 (EU)
Delivery $48
Garmin Fenex 5x is the best smartwatche at value today. The Fenex 6 is the newer model so the Fenex 5 has recently gone down in price. It covers all the basic smartwatche functions needed in today's world and has additional features that active users can take advantage of. Pros: -Sapphire watch screen is pretty indestructible as watch faces go. Even refurbished watches have god screens and beet up everything else. -Easily replaceable bands. -Good heart monitor -Waterproof enough to swim or shower with -Good GPS system that uses multiple constellations of satellites. -Health tracking easy to use and accurate -Good interface back and forth with smartphone, I can reply to texts and receive updates. -Good market with custom watchfaces and apps. -Easy to find a watch ... MoreGarmin Fenex 5x is the best smartwatche at value today. The Fenex 6 is the newer model so the Fenex 5 has recently gone down in price. It covers all the basic smartwatche functions needed in today's world and has additional features that active users can take advantage of. Pros: -Sapphire watch screen is pretty indestructible as watch faces go. Even refurbished watches have god screens and beet up everything else. -Easily replaceable bands. -Good heart monitor -Waterproof enough to swim or shower with -Good GPS system that uses multiple constellations of satellites. -Health tracking easy to use and accurate -Good interface back and forth with smartphone, I can reply to texts and receive updates. -Good market with custom watchfaces and apps. -Easy to find a watch face I like that meets my display needs. -Widgets and apps easy to use on watch. -the 5x comes preloaded with topo maps of the US that show run routes, hikes, bike rides, etc. If this does not matter to you get the 5 and save money. Cons -Not the best GPS, If you run in a dense city or forest look at Fenex 6 with more powerful GPS. -Maps are hard to interface with. Little disappointed in comparison to my fortrex. Does great tracking of where I am and where I was, hard to route plan. -No call feature on watch, can only pickup phone calls. This feature is traded for waterproofing and I agree with the feature trade. -GPS mode drains battery to 12 ish hours, longer races are a no with this watch. Overall very pleased with this watch. It meets all my basic needs and being the older model it's currently very affordable. The Fenex 6 only improves things this watch does and does not add very many new features.
First off, I am NOT a techie and am in my middle 60's. I was happy with my existing watch, but as I like to hike, mountain bike, and paddle, my kids decided that I should have a GPS watch. I really wasn't convinced that I needed one, or more importantly, even wanted one and figured that they were kind of a gimmick. However, after continued urging from my kids who had pooled money for the purchase of a GPS watch, some internet searching and also advice from others who own GPS watches, I settled on the Garmin Fenix 5X, even though I thought is was unlikely it would supplant my trusty Timex Ironman.When I got it, my first impression was that it was huge and that I would probably be really uncomfortable wearing it. I put it on and it turns out that I was wrong! Aside ... MoreFirst off, I am NOT a techie and am in my middle 60's. I was happy with my existing watch, but as I like to hike, mountain bike, and paddle, my kids decided that I should have a GPS watch. I really wasn't convinced that I needed one, or more importantly, even wanted one and figured that they were kind of a gimmick. However, after continued urging from my kids who had pooled money for the purchase of a GPS watch, some internet searching and also advice from others who own GPS watches, I settled on the Garmin Fenix 5X, even though I thought is was unlikely it would supplant my trusty Timex Ironman.When I got it, my first impression was that it was huge and that I would probably be really uncomfortable wearing it. I put it on and it turns out that I was wrong! Aside from when I wear shirts that have tight cuffs that don't slide easily over the watch, I don't even notice that I have a larger watch on - it is very comfortable.Even though comfortable, I was still not sure that I would use it much, and am the first to admit that the capabilities of this watch go far, far beyond what I will ever use it for! However, I have found that I use it all the time. Its handy as its always there on my wrist and I can use the activity widgets to track my walks, hikes, bikes, and paddles. (Note that it will track many, many more activities that this, but these are the things that I use if for.) Often before getting the watch, people would ask me how far I went when I did my activities and I never really knew but would give them what I would call a mental estimate. Now I know! And, while doing my activities, I can monitor my elevation changes and pulse in real time. I have to say that I find having the kind of information the watch delivers a very positive motivator for being active and I never would have expected that.Another nice feature is having the GPS map right on my wrist. Often I will hike or mountain bike into areas I am not familiar with. (The GPS map even includes many local trail names that are not on my Oregon 450 GPS with Canada TOPO map.) Having the map allows me to see at a glance where my wanderings have taken me relative to trails and as my route is constantly tracked, I can easily see if there are shortcuts to "get home" when the daylight is beginning to run out or I'm getting hungry! Likewise if I am ocean paddling and the fog comes in, I have my route out right on my wrist and I can follow it backwards to get safely back home.I have not had the watch long enough to make much use of all of the parameters regarding training and physiology that it tracks that get downloaded to Garmin Connect on a smart phone (which I don't own) or computer. I am sure that I will never really scratch the surface in that department, however just the simple day to day information that I get from the Fenix 5X is impressive, and it gives me self satisfaction that I can see it at a glance. Who doesn't want to know that the activity they just did burned off 1057 calories!For me, one of the highlights of the Garmin Connect is that the download shows what you have done. As an example, for a hike, some of the things shown are a map of your route and it gives metrics along the way including elevation, pace, heart rate, and temperature (not sure how accurate this is based on the fact that the watch is often covered during winter), calories burned, distance travelled, Aerobic and Anerobic Training Effects, steps per minute (average and maximum), speed (average and maximum) and of course elapsed time.I don't know how long it will run on a charge and from what I have read, that depends on what you are using it for. Use of the GPS function will use up battery much faster than if it is just being used as a watch for example. I do find that as I am active every day or so, I connect it to my computer through the USB cable supplied with the watch and when that it connected the watch charges up quite quickly.So as an early user, I would say that I am very surprised just how much I really like my Fenix 5X and the information that it provides! Knowing what I know now, I would strongly recommend this watch to anyone who goes in the back country or out on the water as a valuable tool - not just a gimmick! The added benefit is that getting all that information it can provide is kind of fun!
I was frustrated with Apple, I felt the screen was too easy to scratch and the wrist raise detection didn't always work (I owned the Apple watch 2), I had to tap the screen to tell the time. Going to Fenix5x sapphire is more like a normal watch so if there is not enough light you cannot read the time but it has a light button for night. In direct sun watch is so easy to read, indoors when there is low ambient light can be a bit difficult. Unlike the Apple watch you cannot write on the screen, as it is not a touch screen, you have to navigate with buttons, and reply to texts with preset replies. But it also means that you won't get any accidental screen touches from water, which is better for the more active users (ie sweat on fingers confuses Apple watch). One of ... MoreI was frustrated with Apple, I felt the screen was too easy to scratch and the wrist raise detection didn't always work (I owned the Apple watch 2), I had to tap the screen to tell the time. Going to Fenix5x sapphire is more like a normal watch so if there is not enough light you cannot read the time but it has a light button for night. In direct sun watch is so easy to read, indoors when there is low ambient light can be a bit difficult. Unlike the Apple watch you cannot write on the screen, as it is not a touch screen, you have to navigate with buttons, and reply to texts with preset replies. But it also means that you won't get any accidental screen touches from water, which is better for the more active users (ie sweat on fingers confuses Apple watch). One of the best features is battery life, you can go away for a weekend and not need to take the charger (unlike Apple), you can even sleep with the watch and it will tell you how well you slept. Someone complained about the buckle digging into the wrist, I also experienced this but the strap has 2 free loops/rings, which when you position right against the buckle takes off some of the pressure from the buckle, Now I don't notice the buckle (its been a couple of months now). One thing I have noticed is that the Garmin records less steps than the Apple, ie always used to hit 8K steps at work now I barely hit 6K steps, no difference in jobs just seems less sensitive, which means I have to go for a walk to hit my 10k a day. The watch graphics is not anywhere as nice as the Apple, so I felt a little let down, reminded me of a colour gameboy screen. It also took me quite a while to find a watch face that I liked and gave me the information that I wanted. Some watch faces are better than others, the Garmin also has wrist raise detection and some watch faces react to this, ie the one I use keeps the watch face upto date regardless of whether I look at it or not. A watch face I stopped using only updated the time when it detected a wrist raise, and if it didn't it still had some other time listed. I was late to an appointment because of this. For people who like the Apple phone finder feature Fenix5x also can find your phone (really glad it has it)
The Fenix 5x Saphire is my second Garmin wearable so obviously I'm a fan. I'm going to list out below an assessment of the product and features as I see have found them using the product for about 30 days.- Looks: exceptional. I wear it every day and it can work from casual to dressy no problem.- Weight: more than I would have liked but not a deal breaker and easy to get used to. It weighs less than my full on dress watch with a metal band but much more than my original Vivoactive.- Sports/Apps/Customization: If you can't find what you want either embedded on the watch or on the Connect store I would be shocked. Most everything can be customized to get you exactly what you need. The only disappointing thing are the watch faces and this goes for all of the ... MoreThe Fenix 5x Saphire is my second Garmin wearable so obviously I'm a fan. I'm going to list out below an assessment of the product and features as I see have found them using the product for about 30 days.- Looks: exceptional. I wear it every day and it can work from casual to dressy no problem.- Weight: more than I would have liked but not a deal breaker and easy to get used to. It weighs less than my full on dress watch with a metal band but much more than my original Vivoactive.- Sports/Apps/Customization: If you can't find what you want either embedded on the watch or on the Connect store I would be shocked. Most everything can be customized to get you exactly what you need. The only disappointing thing are the watch faces and this goes for all of the wearables, the actual look on the watch doesn't match the photo in the IQ store and many of them want a donation to unlock the other features.- Music(or lack there of): The 5X does not have the ability to store music on the device. Garmin wants you to buy the PLUS version which basically amounts to $150 MP3 player as there's virtually no other difference between the devices. IMO for a watch in this price range music on board should be a standard. Hope your listening Garmin and you'll come out with an update for my 5X!- Battery life: the specs say up to 12 days and I have found this to be pretty accurate. GPS battery life, I have not fully tested however running or hiking 4-5 x week I have gotten 3.5 hours of GPS use. I would assume you will need to charge the 5X at least once per week. One note on Battery Save mode. If you are in the middle of an activity and you let the "Battery Save" mode kick in you will lose the data for that activity. I found that the watch still has plenty of battery life to complete most normal training activities so be sure to stop it from entering that mode and simply complete your activity and then charge the watch when back home.- Screen: daytime visibility is excellent even in bright sun. Night time visibility basically requires the back light.- GPS, Altimeter accuracy has been incredible. I have a high degree of confidence in this.- Mapping and Navigation: Using the mapping as a screen within the run application is difficult at best due to the standard field of view when using the scrolling feature. Navigation however is easy to use and the notifications and zoom feature for turns works fantastically. Unfortunately when using navigation for a run or hike you can't get the standard screens your used to that give you splits and HR data. That's a bit disappointing. The compass has been bit sketchy. I'll need to look into calibration for that more directly.There's really so many details I could get into but I think the above covers the most critical features of the device itself. Overall I love the product. The 4 stars is really a combination of price with a couple of either missing or wonky features that i would have expected from a product like this one.
The Garmin 5X is working well for me. I like the larger display as it is easier for me to see, even if I am not wearing reading glasses. The display is easily seen , even in bright sunlight which is great. I mostly run and do some biking and it has handled all of my runs, where ever I have been as I travel for work and end up running in a variety of locations. I downloaded the maps which is very handy to have. The stairs up/down count is not very accurate for some reason but it seems to measure elevation okay. My wife loves the tracking feature as she can watch my progress on a route. I was looking at a forerunner to replace my old one but upgraded to this watch and just love it. Have started using the Garmin Coach feature to train for my first half marathon and it ... MoreThe Garmin 5X is working well for me. I like the larger display as it is easier for me to see, even if I am not wearing reading glasses. The display is easily seen , even in bright sunlight which is great. I mostly run and do some biking and it has handled all of my runs, where ever I have been as I travel for work and end up running in a variety of locations. I downloaded the maps which is very handy to have. The stairs up/down count is not very accurate for some reason but it seems to measure elevation okay. My wife loves the tracking feature as she can watch my progress on a route. I was looking at a forerunner to replace my old one but upgraded to this watch and just love it. Have started using the Garmin Coach feature to train for my first half marathon and it is going well.
My Fenix 5 Sapphire was bought in early December and given to me for Christmas 2017. I had thoroughly researched this and similar watches and although the Fenix 5 had some reviews that worried me, I decided this was the best watch for me.I planned on using the watch primarily for backpacking so the altimeter and barometer functions, as well as the GPS, were the most important features for me. I must say that for the most part I was very impressed with the watch. The Fenix 5 is a great looking watch and seems to be very well built and solid. The battery life was better than I expected lasting over two weeks with the GPS on but with limited tracking. I did find the GPS tracking to be very accurate. The map of my track appeared to be right on the route I took. I did ... MoreMy Fenix 5 Sapphire was bought in early December and given to me for Christmas 2017. I had thoroughly researched this and similar watches and although the Fenix 5 had some reviews that worried me, I decided this was the best watch for me.I planned on using the watch primarily for backpacking so the altimeter and barometer functions, as well as the GPS, were the most important features for me. I must say that for the most part I was very impressed with the watch. The Fenix 5 is a great looking watch and seems to be very well built and solid. The battery life was better than I expected lasting over two weeks with the GPS on but with limited tracking. I did find the GPS tracking to be very accurate. The map of my track appeared to be right on the route I took. I did a number of tracks and they all seemed equally as good. I unfortunately did not keep the watch so I can't say how it's GPS would perform in various conditions long term. The watch has tons of features and can track all sorts of activities. It is capable of doing much more than I would ever use it for!For me, the downfall for the watch was the altimeter and the barometer. Both functions worked perfectly for about a week and a half and then they suddenly started showing errors - starting off minor and within a couple of days becoming major. In less than two weeks time from new, the altimeter was showing altitudes as low as 3000' below sea level to 65000' above sea level. Numerous calibrations and watch resets both soft and hard would only fix it for about a day and then it would act up again. The barometer, as one would expect, also had corresponding errors. After a few calls with Garmin it was determined it indeed had a problem and needed to be returned. Thankfully, I bought the Fenix 5 at REI and, as usual, they were fantastic about returning it and giving me another one. Unfortunately, this second one did the exact same thing. After about another week and half the altimeter and barometer did the same thing - errors started out small and quickly became major. Because the altimeter and barometer functions were the main reasons I got this watch and I had no confidence that a third one wouldn't do the same thing, and considering the price of the watch, I unfortunately returned it and got my money back. It was too bad because I really did like the watch!I felt like giving the watch 1 star because of these issues but decided to give it 3 for all the other functions it does so well. If you don't care about the altimeter and barometer functions I would recommend it, but if they're important to you then I wouldn't. If Garmin fixes the problem (for sure) I would buy another Fenix 5. Otherwise, if the next generation Fenix doesn't have the same issues I'll probably try it.
There’s already a ton of great info online as to how this watch benefits athletes looking to track their info. I’m offering my non-athletic perspective on the watch. I know that sounds odd but the reality is heaps of people buy these for their aesthetics and utilize very little of the features. I am in that category. I have a very active job that involves global travel on a bi-weekly basis. I was looking for a rugged, large face (50mm), round watch (I have large forearms and even the largest apple watch looks like a toy on my arm) that had all the normal time/clock features but also did advanced and accurate activity tracking and most importantly had a built in heart rate monitor - for the very simple reason that I think HR and health data is interesting (and ... MoreThere’s already a ton of great info online as to how this watch benefits athletes looking to track their info. I’m offering my non-athletic perspective on the watch. I know that sounds odd but the reality is heaps of people buy these for their aesthetics and utilize very little of the features. I am in that category. I have a very active job that involves global travel on a bi-weekly basis. I was looking for a rugged, large face (50mm), round watch (I have large forearms and even the largest apple watch looks like a toy on my arm) that had all the normal time/clock features but also did advanced and accurate activity tracking and most importantly had a built in heart rate monitor - for the very simple reason that I think HR and health data is interesting (and helpful). I was willing to fork out big bucks for those simple things. Unfortunately this watch underwhelmed me. I have no doubt that this watch could benefit an athlete looking to track their runs at high altitude etc but for a ‘lamen-techy’ user, when I powered up the watch and started going through the menus, it felt like I was powering up a Sony Ericsson cell phone in the late 90’s. Menu aesthetics aside, I couldn’t bridge the gap between the experience I have interacting with smartphones and tablets to the experience using this watch. Simply put, it was very frustrating to use. The screen is very low resolution, the pixels are visible squares and navigating through the menu using 4 different buttons seemed like we’ve come too far to be back at this point. Compared with the Suunto Spartan HR, I also found it quite a bit heavier. Garmin connect offered a lot of great stats but again the app’s graphics and UI seemed clunky and dated. I guess I’m waiting for some hybrid apple watch experience with Garmin exterior design and ruggedness. For athletes who are simply interested in performance data and do not care about interaction with the watch, I’m sure this works. But for folks interested in collecting the every day data and critical of a having a contemporary UI experience, this is not that watch.
I bought this as a replacement for another smartwatch (also with a wrist-based heart rate monitor) based upon the recommendation of a friend who had a Garmin Fenix 5. The reason I selected this watch was for all of the features and the Garmin software that is available for my training for running marathons and other races.There are probably functions and features that I won't use (as well as sports monitoring that I probably won't use). But it has practically all that I want and need for training and racing. Most of the capabilities are intuitive if you've ever had and used a sports watch, but some are well hidden. The degree of customization of information is impressive, although the basic setup provides most of the information one would want.The primary reason ... MoreI bought this as a replacement for another smartwatch (also with a wrist-based heart rate monitor) based upon the recommendation of a friend who had a Garmin Fenix 5. The reason I selected this watch was for all of the features and the Garmin software that is available for my training for running marathons and other races.There are probably functions and features that I won't use (as well as sports monitoring that I probably won't use). But it has practically all that I want and need for training and racing. Most of the capabilities are intuitive if you've ever had and used a sports watch, but some are well hidden. The degree of customization of information is impressive, although the basic setup provides most of the information one would want.The primary reason to get this type of watch is the wrist based heart rate monitor (HRM). There are ways to compare a chest strap monitor to the wrist based HRM and although there are a couple of circumstances where the two minute diverge, in most cases I have found the wrist-based and chest-based to be within 1-2 beats per minute of each other. As a GPS watch, it is reasonably accurate in monitoring location, distance, and pace. It also gives an estimate ofsteps taken.The 5X is a large watch, though I don't notice the weight. The large display is very readable under running conditions. You can choose what apps communicate with your watch (but it does require your phone). The watch can also communicate through your wifi connection as well. The battery life has been excellent. One additional feature of this watch is the ability to quick change watch bands. Garmin offers a number of accessories to expand the capbilities of the watch and software.Overall, I'm very satisfied with the performance of the watch and its capabilities as a top of the line watch are worth the money to me as a marathoner.
I live in Pennsylvania and primarily use this as a "daily assistant" for text, running, and step count. I planned to purchase a Garmin 64st handheld but thought the watch would be more practical since I can use it everyday and also use it as a GPS in the back country on elk hunts. The jury is still out on this function. The GPS appears to connect relatively quickly as long as you are outdoors and not under a roof. I am still working to best utilize the topo maps features. The watch was easy to learn and Garmin has a web page dedicated for instructions for all functions of this watch which is very helpful.My only disappointment so far is the gun metal looking bezel of the watch has a small scratch. I was under the impression that the bezel was a tungsten carbide or ... MoreI live in Pennsylvania and primarily use this as a "daily assistant" for text, running, and step count. I planned to purchase a Garmin 64st handheld but thought the watch would be more practical since I can use it everyday and also use it as a GPS in the back country on elk hunts. The jury is still out on this function. The GPS appears to connect relatively quickly as long as you are outdoors and not under a roof. I am still working to best utilize the topo maps features. The watch was easy to learn and Garmin has a web page dedicated for instructions for all functions of this watch which is very helpful.My only disappointment so far is the gun metal looking bezel of the watch has a small scratch. I was under the impression that the bezel was a tungsten carbide or some other material that is very hard and essentially scratch-proof. This is not the case. I'm not sure exactly how it scratched but having the watch less than a week and having this scratch already was a little disappointing. That being said, I would still purchase the watch again. The bezel looks like it could be replaced so I am not overly concerned about the small scratch.I would also recommend purchasing from KUIU over Amazon because you know you will get a legitimate Garmin product. I have had issues with Amazon specifically shipping counterfeit items and would not trust buying something like this through them.Hope this review helps with your purchase. Overall I would say buy it... you won't be disappointed.
Watch looks great for every day use and the battery lasts forever compared to similarly featured watches (I'm using the NoFrills watchface).The battery is amazing and I've has no issues close to perfectly tracking my movement in the city with the watch on GPS ONLY on 1s tracking with Lock on Roads turned off.Was worried the watch would look huge on my wrist but it looks much better than I had anticipated on my small wrists. I had to buy a new band due to the buckle digging into my wrist. I went with the black heavy nylon 2 piece from Nato Strap Co (screws are size T5).The optical HR has its issues being on such a large watch and the standard bands aren't comfortable enough to wear as snug as you'll need for the wrist HR to work during training or ops. It works ... MoreWatch looks great for every day use and the battery lasts forever compared to similarly featured watches (I'm using the NoFrills watchface).The battery is amazing and I've has no issues close to perfectly tracking my movement in the city with the watch on GPS ONLY on 1s tracking with Lock on Roads turned off.Was worried the watch would look huge on my wrist but it looks much better than I had anticipated on my small wrists. I had to buy a new band due to the buckle digging into my wrist. I went with the black heavy nylon 2 piece from Nato Strap Co (screws are size T5).The optical HR has its issues being on such a large watch and the standard bands aren't comfortable enough to wear as snug as you'll need for the wrist HR to work during training or ops. It works about as great as any other wrist sensor though.The watch is probably the best thing since sliced bread for training or doing ops places where you don't have any cell service. You can load OSM topo maps (or your own but after some testing I would avoid the ones Garmin sells due to it missing a lot of trails that are on OSM at least for my area) onto this watch and create an activity that will do Automobile navigation with multiple features like hazard/toll/highway avoidance and full turn by turn navigation. To do this I basically copied the standard Navigation activity then changed the Routing to automobile and tweaked some other settings. You will also need to load routable maps via Basecamp before you will see the Automobile option in routing. I use the OSM topo routable files from GMapTool. You can also track your HR, movement, and pace with your GPS readings over long periods of time and then play the track back like a video next to graphs with overlays of the tracked data for easy after actions or instruction on operations.Watch loses a star based on lack of decent sleep tracking compared to Fitbit, issues with the app (the backend was just down for an entire day and everyone who uses Garmin Connect was locked out of their information), and delayed canned responses from Garmin (except when they need you to do free quality control tests or troubleshooting for them).Sorry for rambling. Hope this review is helpful for someone looking to buy this tracker.
| General | |
| Product Type | GPS/GLONASS watch |
| Recommended Use | Hiking, cycle, Golf, running, swimming |
| Interface | USB, Bluetooth, Wi-Fi |
| Aerial | Built-in |
