Garmin Fenix 8 vs Enduro 3: Which Smartwatch Reigns Supreme?

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In the world of multisport smartwatches, the Garmin Fenix 8 and Enduro 3 stand out as top contenders. This post compares the two to help you decide which one is right for your fitness journey.

Garmin Fenix 8 vs Enduro 3: Key Differences

The Garmin Fenix 8 and Enduro 3 are top-notch watches catering to different users. The Fenix 8 has more features and a smaller size, while the Enduro 3 offers the longest battery life and great durability. Understanding these differences will help you choose the best watch for your active lifestyle.

Comprehensive comparison table of the Garmin Fenix 8 and Enduro 3

FeatureGarmin Fenix 8Garmin Enduro 3
DisplayAMOLED or MIP (solar version)MIP with solar charging
Sizes43mm, 47mm, 51mm51mm only
Battery Life (Smartwatch)Up to 28 days (solar version)Up to 90 days with solar
Battery Life (GPS)Up to 150 hours (solar version)Up to 320 hours with solar
Weight63g – 96g (depending on model)63g
Speaker/MicrophoneYesNo
Dive FeaturesYes, up to 40mNo
FlashlightYesYes, with running cadence mode
MapsTopoActive mapsTopoActive maps
Training FeaturesAdvanced, including strength trainingAdvanced, ultrarunning focused
Price$999.99 – $1199.99$899.99
Target AudienceMultisport athletes, outdoor enthusiastsUltrarunners, endurance athletes
Unique FeaturesAMOLED option, voice assistant, dive capabilitiesLonger battery life, ultrarun-specific features
User InterfaceRevamped, more user-friendlySimilar to Fenix 7 Pro

What They Have in Common

Both the Fenix 8 and Enduro 3 are built to impress. They have a rugged design and lots of functionality. They share several features:

  • Excellent build quality, ensuring durability in tough conditions.
  • Responsive touch screens that enhance user experience.
  • Advanced GPS capabilities, providing accurate tracking for outdoor adventures.
  • Common heart rate sensor technology, offering ECG capabilities and skin temperature monitoring.
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Overview of common features in Fenix 8 and Enduro 3

Price / Best Value

The Garmin Fenix 8 starts at $999 for its base model, while the Enduro 3 is more budget-friendly at $899. The Fenix 8 offers various configurations and features, which may justify its cost. The Enduro 3, with its titanium bezel and sapphire glass, offers great value, especially for those who prefer simplicity in their fitness tracking.

Size / Weight

Size and weight matter a lot. The Fenix 8 comes in three sizes: 43mm, 47mm, and 51mm. This fits different wrist sizes. The Enduro 3 is only 51mm, which might not fit everyone.

But, both watches weigh the same—57 grams for the case. This makes the Enduro 3 surprisingly light.

Size comparison between Fenix 8 and Enduro 3

Durability / Buttons / Dive Features

Both watches are tough, with sapphire glass and titanium bezels. The Fenix 8 has a special sensor guard for extra protection. The Enduro 3 has traditional buttons that might wear out faster.

The Fenix 8’s wireless proximity sensors make it safe for diving, giving it an edge over the Enduro 3 for water sports enthusiasts.

Durability features comparison of Fenix 8 and Enduro 3

AMOLED vs MIP Display

The Fenix 8 has a bright AMOLED display. The Enduro 3 has a MIP display that’s always on but hard to read in the dark. If you want color, choose the Fenix 8. For battery life, pick the Enduro 3.

Display technology comparison of Fenix 8 and Enduro 3

Battery Life and Performance

Battery life is key for outdoor lovers. The Enduro 3 lasts up to 90 days with solar charging. The Fenix 8 lasts 30 days.

Both watches offer excellent battery performance, but the Enduro 3 is the clear winner for long adventures and ultrarunning.

Battery life comparison between Fenix 8 and Enduro 3

Unique Features of Each Watch

Each watch has special features for different needs:

  • Fenix 8: It has an AMOLED display, diving features, and health sensors. It’s perfect for those who want everything.
  • Enduro 3: It’s made for ultra-endurance athletes. It focuses on battery life and toughness for long adventures.
See also
Best Fitness Trackers 2024: Best Picks & Reviews
Unique features of Fenix 8 and Enduro 3

Price and Value Proposition

The Fenix 8 costs more but offers many features. The Enduro 3 is cheaper but still durable and performs well. It’s a good choice for those who want a reliable watch without extra features.

Strengths and Weaknesses

Each watch has its strengths and weaknesses:

  • Fenix 8 Strengths:
    • Vibrant AMOLED display.
    • More size options available.
    • Diving capabilities.
  • Fenix 8 Weaknesses:
    • Higher price point.
    • Shorter battery life compared to Enduro 3.
  • Enduro 3 Strengths:
    • Exceptional battery life.
    • Lightweight and durable design.
    • More affordable price.
  • Enduro 3 Weaknesses:
    • Limited size options.
    • Less vibrant display technology.

Who Each Watch is Best Suited For

Choosing between the Fenix 8 and Enduro 3 depends on what you need:

  • Fenix 8: It’s best for those who want advanced features, a bright display, and can dive.
  • Enduro 3: Perfect for athletes who prioritize long battery life and durability in their endurance training.
Target audience for Fenix 8 and Enduro 3

Speaker / Microphone

The Garmin Fenix 8 has a speaker and microphone. It’s the first in its series to offer these. This lets users talk to Siri or Google Assistant from their wrist.

This makes it easy to send messages or set reminders without a phone. The Enduro 3 doesn’t have these features. This might not matter to athletes focused on performance. But, it means they can’t talk hands-free.

Battery Life

The Enduro 3 has a long battery life, lasting up to 90 days with solar charging. The Fenix 8 lasts 30 days in similar conditions. For long outdoor activities, the Enduro 3 is the best choice.

The Fenix 8 also has great battery life. It’s good for most users. Your choice depends on how much battery life you need.

See also
The Ultimate Guide to Best Sports Watches for Triathletes in 2024
Battery life comparison between Fenix 8 and Enduro 3

Who Are They For?

The Fenix 8 is perfect for those who want advanced features. It has an AMOLED display and can dive. It’s great for outdoor activities and looks good too.

Garmin fēnix® 8 Sapphire

Unleash Your Potential

Solar Charging
Advanced Health Monitoring
Built-in Maps & Navigation
Long-lasting Battery Life
Multisport Modes
Performance Metrics
Elevate Your Adventure
Garmin fēnix 7 Pro Solar Edition

The Enduro 3 is for endurance athletes and adventurers. It lasts weeks without charging. It’s big but lasts long.

Garmin Enduro™ 3

Ultraperformance Meets Unlimited Endurance

Solar Charging
Extreme Battery Life
Detailed Mapping
Built-in LED Flashlight
Ultraperformance GPS
Sapphire Lens
Conquer Your Limits
Garmin Enduro 3 Smartwatch

Conclusion and Recommendations

The Garmin Fenix 8 and Enduro 3 are both top-notch watches. The Fenix 8 has lots of features and a great display. But, it’s more expensive.

The Enduro 3 has amazing battery life and is cheaper. It’s perfect for athletes who need long battery life. Choose based on what you need most.