Fenix 5x purchase advice? New model right around the corner? cracked sensor lens?

I am looking to replace my Fenix 3 with 5x for the map capability. But I wonder if I should wait for the next model if its just right around the corner.

Also, I read about cracked oHR lens, is that an issue i should worry about?
  • Thank you so much for advice guys. I ended up getting a new 5X from authorized dealer with USD$200 off. I can live with that price.

    I think I am paying mostly for the oHR, better screen, and of course the map routing.

    To think about it, even if the next Fenix 6X will arrive next April, I suppose there will be a slight increase with MSRP and there wouldn't be discount for a while.
  • A couple of things- Garmin pay has very few banks participating. And if I want to pay I’ll use my phone. Music doesn’t matter to me when I’m riding my bike. Otherwise I always have my phone. But, most important, every Garmin product I have ever owned takes at least a year before everything works. That makes a new, useful, watch almost two years out. Not worth the wait.
  • I don't think there are any other sports watches out there that has all-day stress tracking (HRV) using optical HR yet. This alone I think is worth getting the 5X and I love mine. :D



    I think this function is already implemented.
  • I think this function is already implemented.


    Yup. I have this on my 5X, I am running firmware 8.0.
  • the Fenix 6 will eventually feature the new DUAL BAND GPS, that combined with GALILEO can give you 30cm precision, and will make the barometric altimeter useless (except for weather forecast)
    NFC and eventually basic esim support means you can go for a ride without taking your mobile for emergencies
  • 5x are still very nice watch and will be. I wear them instead of my Omega PO since 1 year


    Same here. My $5k Planet Ocean now lives in a safe...
  • I was like that when I took the plunge with a new bike this year. New models will be out in the fall should I wait.. I choose not to. I think like anything though, would wait forever for the next thing in the hope its better than the last thing.

    I don't care about watch pay or music so those features wouldn't hold me off, the battery is plenty good enough for me now so a longer battery wouldn't either. Screen improvements - sure the Apple Watch looks real pretty but I don't really care about that either - the functional face of the 5X works for me. I think GPS improvements as per above would be the only thing I might have waited on and the only thing that will have me looking at upgrading when the new one comes out.

    The interesting thing is I look at reviews for the competitors and new watches coming out and when I weigh up the pros and cons I still find I'm happy I bought the 5X.