This newest version of Garmin's top-tier Fenix adventure timepiece introduces a potentially lifesaving capability: phone-free messaging and SOS messaging via 4G LTE or orbital connections.
The Fenix 8 Pro builds upon the previously impressive Fenix 8 by incorporating cutting-edge cellular technology, plus an optional state-of-the-art microLED screen in a special edition. It is the brand's top device and designed to be the single gadget needed to venture almost anywhere and track all your movements.
This positions it as an extremely pricey proposition, starting at £1,030 (€1,200, $1,200, A$2,300) for the 47mm OLED model and reaching a substantial £1,730 (€2,000/$2,000/A$3,399) for the 51mm edition with microLED display – nearly twice the cost of the regular Fenix 8.
You do get a lot of functionality for your investment, with best-in-class workout, movement and outdoor tracking. The full offline mapping of the globe can automatically direct you return to the path if you lose your way absent a phone, and look great on the sizable, sharp and high-luminance display.
This Fenix 8 Pro is only available in 47mm or 51mm case sizes, not the more compact 43mm size available in other devices, so it is a large watch for bigger wrists. But the 47mm OLED version as reviewed does have an extra day of smartwatch battery life despite the display always active, enduring a reliable eight to nine days between charges.
No-Phone Texting, Calls and Live Tracking
The company uses its proprietary inReach LTE (4G) and orbital subscription plan instead of relying on a watch plan tied to your mobile carrier, like other wearables. But unlike competing satellite-enabled products, SOS communication is not provided for no cost.
Rather, subscriptions start at £7.99 or equivalent a month, which includes limitless LTE text and voice messaging, calls and LiveTrack location sharing – so your friends or family can keep an eye on you while out jogging, cycling or similar activities – plus SOS satellite SOS messaging.
Check-ins and messages via satellite are then charged additionally, with higher-tier subscriptions including various allowances of orbital use, climbing to a £50 a month unlimited plan. The watch comes with a 30-day free trial so you can evaluate the functionality.
After you have got it set up, you just venture the door without your phone and the watch will link to LTE. You cannot use it for streaming music or comparable tasks, but you can place and receive calls, dispatch texts and overall stay connected with your family and friends.
When you text someone, Garmin sends them an SMS from a random phone number, which they can reply to back to your watch. If they install the Garmin Messenger application, you can then communicate reciprocally via text or voice communications, and initiate voice calls. Your contact does not need a Garmin account to use the Messenger app, only a mobile number is enough to sign up for texts.
Messaging on the watch works adequately but composing texts on the tiny on-screen keyboard is time-consuming. It includes a set of customisable canned responses you can send to expedite communication. Voice recordings and calls perform OK, though as with the majority of wearables, you’re unlikely going to want to use it for extended discussions as the quality is less than fantastic.
LiveTrack is the most useful function. You can configure to automatically send a link to chosen contacts every time you start an activity, so they can follow your real time location on a map. It’s excellent for following competition performance, but it mostly serves as a utility for someone you rely on to know your whereabouts in case something happens. It has generally worked effectively, though the actual position has occasionally been delayed when moving in and out of strong LTE signal.
These features are available on other Garmin watches if you carry your phone with you, but in areas where LTE does not reach, the satellite kicks in on the Fenix 8 Pro to transmit texts, position updates and emergency SOS.
A guide displays 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 crucial safety feature, though it is essential to remember that satellite service is limited to the US mainland, the majority of Canada, and most of Europe excluding parts of Scandinavia north of 65 degrees north.
Sustainability
The watch is generally repairable with services offered through the support site. The battery is certified to retain at least 90% of its initial power after two years of regular charging. The watch does not contain any reused components. Garmin offers disposal programs 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 subscription packages cost from £7.99 (€9.99/$7.99/A$13.50).
Conclusion
The Fenix 8 Pro takes a fantastic outdoor watch in the standard Fenix 8 and incorporates LTE for messaging, call functionality and LiveTrack – plus orbital messaging, location update and SOS SOS for when you’re out of coverage.
Outcome is an even more impressive outdoor tool for those that desire to be unplugged. If you wish to have someone monitor you from afar while exercising out at night or in the remote areas, the Garmin accomplishes this without requiring anything else.
It is very freeing to be outside without a phone, but that functionality comes at quite a price, both in terms of the substantial cost of the watch and the recurring subscription of the inReach plan to provide the service. At least it is not dependent on your phone provider so works with any make of smartphone and carrier.
The Fenix 8 Pro is a killer device for someone who dislikes being burdened by their phone when running, cycling or hiking, but still desires to be trackable and reachable. For other users, it is a lot of money when the excellent Fenix 8 already exists.
Advantages: LTE and orbital messaging, super-bright OLED display, monitors everything with best-in-class GPS, integrated flashlight, voice and offline commands, 8+ day endurance, Garmin Pay, full offline maps and routes, offline Spotify, 100-metre water resistance and 40-metre underwater use, buttons and touch.
Drawbacks: extremely expensive, LTE and satellite functions need monthly subscription, limited Garmin Pay financial compatibility, voice capabilities are slow, limited wearable features versus Apple/Google/Samsung watches.
