Garmin Fenix 9 adds speed and storage, but keeps Fenix 8 battery life
Engadget’s comparison finds targeted hardware gains in Garmin’s new sports watch, while core features and stated battery life remain much the same.
Garmin’s Fenix 9 improves on the Fenix 8 with a brighter screen, more storage and faster map performance, according to Engadget’s comparison. The changes may appeal to athletes and outdoor users who need those specific gains, but the review describes the new model as an incremental upgrade.
Garmin says the Fenix 9’s AMOLED display is twice as bright as the Fenix 8’s. Engadget notes Garmin did not disclose the older model’s specific brightness figure. The higher visibility could help people training in harsh sun, while both watches retain a rugged design and a 40-metre diving rating.
Storage doubles to 64GB, and RAM increases by 50 per cent. Garmin also says map panning is up to 30 per cent faster. The extra capacity can accommodate more regional maps and music, while the faster performance is aimed at users who rely on maps and multiple apps.
The Fenix 9 adds Garmin Epic, stamina tracking and expanded rucking tools. Some software features may eventually reach the Fenix 8 through updates, Engadget reports. The watches also share features including a flashlight, speaker and microphone, ECG capability and core health tracking.
Battery life is stated at 29 days on a charge for both models. Engadget lists the Fenix 9 at $999.99 for the 43mm version and $1,099.99 for the 51mm, matching the Fenix 8’s launch prices. For owners content with their Fenix 8, the review says the gains may not justify another purchase; brighter visibility, additional storage and faster maps are the clearest reasons to consider switching.
Engadget also notes Garmin’s minimum two-year window for critical security vulnerability patches has passed for the Fenix 8. The company had not clarified its future update schedule when the comparison was published.
