Alternatives??

as you explain, your mandatory features should be available in the other brand, otherwise no change.

another example, Amazfit (and Xiaomi) is capable of and Garmin isn't and are very important for me:

- "You can individually select or filter notifications from around twenty applications."
Garmin is unable to do this; I tested a Smart Band 7 or 8 (30€) and it was already possible via the app on my iPhone !

- Map Orientation on "Navigation direction (like COROS)"
Garmin doesn't offer this either, and it would be great to be able to lock the display with this option, because as it is, you have to wait a moment for it to return to the right direction after moving your wrist. This is a real pain when trail riding.

If you think the competitors watches have the features you want for the price you're willing to pay then you should absolutely go for it. I find it interesting that you are on the Garmin forum trying to justify the switch to a competitors product but, that is your choice. Further, ask yourself why these competitors are all being compared to Garmin.

I for one am happy with Garmin, I know that they have issues with new releases but, they get it sorted out (which is why I am not an early adopter). I've had to call Garmin for support and I have always talked to a real person in very short order and Gamrin stands behind their products long after the warranty has expired. Are you able to say the same for these new products?

Bottom line, competition is good and these other companies will help the  market get better (including Garmin).

Finally, ask yourself why several of the Fenix 8 offerings are on backorder for several weeks for a supposedly over priced watch.

Enjoy your new watch.

Not every comparison to competition or discussion about issues is justification of inadequacy of Garmin watch. People are sharing opinions AND facts.

Ask yourself why you are so touchy when it comes to these topics and comparisons.

kstate1980 said:

they get it sorted out

Some things yes. Also important to know when they sort it out, since sometimes it takes a looong time to sort it out. Also important to say that some things that worked fine get broken in that process of "sorting out".

kstate1980 said:

why these competitors are all being compared to Garmin.

Why not comprare them? Garmin is the most popular brand in sports watch market because it does and did many things right. That does not mean that everything it does is right choice or good for users. Comparison is what makes market grow. You also say that, but treat comparisons in the way you do.

kstate1980 said:

ask yourself why several of the Fenix 8 offerings are on backorder for several weeks for a supposedly over priced watch.

Because Garmin marketing is excellent at their job. And it was historically the only brand with some functions. But I remind you that people crowded in suprisingly high numbers to see Barbie movie when it came out last year. That does not mean it is great movie. People flock to new things, whatever it is. That is why Garmin issues new watch every few months.

You will always wonder what you are missing in the F8 line.  Save up until you have enough to buy it.  Work some OT or sell off stuff you don't use anymore.

I'm not touchy, My decision to purchase a Fenix 8 is based on the my experience with the numerous Garmin products over the years.

I have not said one negative thing about any of the alternatives listed in this or any other thread. In fact, I have encouraged users such as yourself to purchase the competitor product if you believe it's a fit for you.

I have purchased numerous Garmin products over the years (HR straps, cycling computers, watches, scale, BPM and other devices). I have never experienced any of the issues mentioned in these threads or thread related to the products I've purchased. When I have had questions or an issue, Garmin support has responded promptly in a courteous and professional manner. My experience is much different than yours and I am will to pay for that service.

Please enjoy your watch

You can get a Fenix 7 pro for a good price. A great watch in my opinion 

kstate1980 said:

I'm not touchy

From you previous post, I find it hard to believe.

kstate1980 said:

My decision to purchase a Fenix 8 is based on the my experience with the numerous Garmin products over the years.

Exactly. Decision based on previous experience, not fenix 8 itself.

iSnape said:

You can get a Fenix 7 pro for a good price. A great watch in my opinion

I agrre. Or Epix Pro. Except if you will use it for swimming, since Fenix 7 and Epix tend to break after using them for swimming and surfing (bad button quality).