This latest version of the top-tier Fenix outdoor watch brings a potentially lifesaving capability: no-phone messaging and SOS alerts via 4G LTE or orbital connections.
This Fenix 8 Pro builds upon the previously impressive Fenix 8 by incorporating new cellular technology, plus an optional state-of-the-art microLED display in a limited edition. This is Garmin's premier model and engineered to be the only tool needed to venture almost any location and monitor all your movements.
That positions it as an extremely expensive option, priced from £1,030 (€1,200, $1,200, A$2,300) for the 47mm OLED model and climbing to a substantial £1,730 (€2,000/$2,000/A$3,399) for the 51mm edition with microLED display – almost twice the price of the regular Fenix 8.
You do get a lot of features for your money, with best-in-class workout, movement and adventure monitoring. Its full offline mapping of the globe can automatically direct you back to the path if you get lost without a phone, and appear excellent on the sizable, sharp and high-luminance display.
The Fenix 8 Pro is only offered in 47mm or 51mm case dimensions, omitting the smaller 43mm version available in other devices, so it is a large watch for larger wrists. However the 47mm OLED model as reviewed boasts an extra day of watch battery life despite the screen on all the time, lasting a solid eight to nine days between charging.
No-Phone Messaging, Calling and Live Tracking
The company operates its proprietary inReach LTE (4G) and orbital subscription plan instead of relying on a watch plan linked to your phone provider, as with other smartwatches. But unlike competing satellite-enabled devices, emergency messaging is not included for no cost.
Instead, plans start at £7.99 or similar a month, which provides unlimited LTE SMS and voice messages, calls and LiveTrack location tracking – so your contacts or loved ones can keep an eye on you while engaged in running, biking or comparable pursuits – along with emergency orbital SOS alerts.
Location updates and messages over orbital are then billed additionally, with more expensive plans offering various quotas of satellite usage, increasing to a £50 a month unlimited subscription. The watch comes with a 30-day free trial so you can test out the functionality.
Once you have got it set up, you simply head out the door minus your phone and the watch will link to LTE. You can not use it for playing music or comparable tasks, but you can make and take calls, send texts and generally stay connected with your relatives and friends.
When you message someone, Garmin sends them an SMS from a arbitrary number, which they can reply to back to your watch. If they install the Garmin Messenger application, you can then communicate back and forth via typed or spoken messages, and make voice calls. Your recipient does not need a Garmin account to use the Messenger application, only a mobile number is enough to sign up for texts.
Messaging on the watch works fine but typing out texts on the small on-screen keyboard is time-consuming. It includes a collection of customisable pre-set replies you can use to expedite communication. Voice recordings and calls work acceptably, though as with most smartwatches, you’re unlikely going to want to use it for lengthy conversations as the quality is less than ideal.
LiveTrack is the most useful function. You can set it up to on its own send a link to chosen contacts whenever you start an activity, so they can track your live location on a map. It’s great for monitoring race progress, but it primarily acts as a tool for someone you trust to be aware of your location in case something happens. It has typically worked effectively, although the actual location has occasionally lagged when transitioning in and out of good LTE signal.
All of 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 send texts, position check-ins and emergency SOS.
A on-screen assistance shows you how to locate the line of sight to the orbital system, which then transmits and gets communications within about 10 to 30 seconds. It was surprisingly straightforward to use and could be a vital lifeline, though it is essential to remember that satellite service is limited to the US continent, most of Canada, and the majority of Europe except for regions of Scandinavia above 65 degrees north.
Sustainability
The watch is typically repairable with services offered through the customer service site. The battery is rated to retain at least 90% of its original capacity after two years of weekly charging. The watch does not contain any reused components. Garmin provides disposal schemes on recent purchases.
Price
The Fenix 8 Pro is priced from £1,029.99 (€1,199.99/$1,199.99/A$2,299). The additional Garmin inReach service plans cost from £7.99 (€9.99/$7.99/A$13.50).
Conclusion
The Fenix 8 Pro builds on a excellent adventure watch in the regular Fenix 8 and adds LTE for messaging, call functionality and LiveTrack – along with satellite messaging, check-in and SOS SOS for when you’re out of signal.
Outcome is an increasingly remarkable outdoor tool for those that desire to be unplugged. If you wish to have someone monitor you remotely while exercising after dark or in the remote areas, the Garmin does so without requiring additional gear.
It is very liberating to be outside without a phone, but that capability carries quite a price, both in terms of the substantial cost of the watch and the recurring subscription of the inReach plan to provide the features. Fortunately it isn’t reliant on your phone provider so works with any make of smartphone and network.
The Fenix 8 Pro is a killer device for someone who hates being weighed down by their phone when running, cycling or hiking, but still desires to be locatable and reachable. For other users, it is a significant expense when the excellent Fenix 8 is already available.
Pros: LTE and satellite communication, super-bright OLED display, monitors all activities with best-in-class GPS, integrated flashlight, phone and standalone voice control, 8+ day endurance, Garmin Pay, full offline maps and routes, offline Spotify, 100-metre waterproofing and 40-metre underwater use, physical controls and touch.
Drawbacks: extremely costly, LTE and orbital functions need monthly subscription, restricted Garmin Pay financial compatibility, speech features are slow, basic wearable features versus competing watches.
