Fenix 7X Pro Solar (Not happy with Enduro 3)

Cross Post from Enduro 3 forum.

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Unfortunately the device is not returnable, but this is not Garmin's fault as I purchased through Expert Voice and did not read the fine print that there are no returns.

Preface aside, I also have a Fenix 7X Pro Solar that I ordered right before I found the Enduro and have arranged for a return, but I'm wondering if it might be best to keep the Fenix 7X PS and sell the Enduro. The Fenix still has a good following despite being a generation older, yet having the same functionality I am looking for: V5 sensor, very decent battery, not built like a lego, and with a more handsome bezel that doesn't have a massive black void of a solar ring around the display.

I am wondering if anyone has experience with both or similar enough to comment on the issue.

My Enduro 1 has been a horse, but I'd like the newer sensor. I am a cyclist who logs a lot of miles and uses the device to monitor key healthy metrics after a couple of heart attacks several years ago. For history, I started withe the OG Instinct, then Instinct 2 Solar, Fenix 6X PS, then Enduro 1. I have tried the Instinct 3 AMOLED (returned), and the Epix 2 Pro (returned).

I just want to avoid returning anything else. If neither of these watches works out, I'm just going to stick with the Enduro 1.

Any insight is appreciated.

0 meuhbat 4 months ago

Why are you unhappy with the Enduro 3 ? It should be equal or better in every way compared to the F7X PS, what are you expecting?

0 Robert the Grey 4 months ago in reply to meuhbat

It is a tank of watch, and I like big watches, but the main thing for me is the solar charging ring outside the display; it makes the watch feel like the Instinct 50mm (big footprint, smaller display). With the F7XPS I get plenty of battery, so the Enduro really isn't worth the premium. Both do ECG and last longer than two weeks (using it how I do). I've been around long enough to know how quickly older models go out of support, or are less supported, so that's not really a concern for me.

My expectations were that the E3 would be more like my E1, but the aesthetics have changed enough to make me consider the 7XPS. Having not owned that generation, I thought I'd get some perspective. Thanks for replying.

0 meuhbat 4 months ago in reply to Robert the Grey

The screen size is identical, the black portion is larger because the metal bezel is thinner on the Enduro 3 to allow more space for the solar panel.

If you are mostly interested in the sensor and everyday life tracking, and are concerned about the tanky size of the E3, maybe you should have gotten a standard size F7p instead? It is smaller and lighter, and still has plenty of battery time. That's why I chose the 47mm, it's less clunky for everyday use and easier to fit under the clothes when having several layers (hiking, mountaineering, climbing, skiing...). And lighter for running.

Keep also in mind the F7X non-sapphire/titanium is quite heavy, the Enduro 3 is much lighter, actually to match you should compare it to a F7X sapphire solar with the silicone band replaced by a nylon strap.

If I was in your place, I would either keep the Enduro 3 (great battery life, newer, light), or get a 47mm F7PSS for cheaper (smaller for everyday, still provides all the functions). Considering you already have the E3 and would have to sell it at a loss, the best is to keep it if you can deal with the size, and just enjoy it!

0 Robert the Grey 4 months ago in reply to meuhbat

meuhbat said:
The screen size is identical, the black portion is larger because the metal bezel is thinner on the Enduro 3 to allow more space for the solar panel.

This is good to know. I like the diameter, not the height and overall boxy presence on my wrist. 47mm is small for my wrist, as my Instincts proved. I don't mind the weight (my 6x PS was probably comparable to the 7x PS). I did measure the usable screen compared to my E1 and it is 3mm smaller (38mm vs 35mm).

I'll just keep it and get used to it and hope I don't knock vases from tables as I walk by. Thanks all for the replies.