Are you ready to take your outdoor adventures to the next level? Look no further than the Garmin Instinct 2X. This rugged and reliable smartwatch is not just your ordinary fitness tracker. It is an essential companion designed to withstand the toughest conditions while providing the necessary tools and insights to conquer any challenge.
Garmin Instinct 2X Solar, Rugged GPS Smartwatch, Built-in Flashlight, Solar Charging Capability, Multi-Band GNSS, Graphite
User reviews
Excellent Durability and Functionality. I've been using the Garmin Instinct 2X Solar in Graphite for a while now, and it's been an outstanding experience. This rugged GPS smartwatch has not only met but exceeded my expectations with its solar charging capability, built-in flashlight, and multi-band GNSS support.The solar charging feature is a game-changer. It significantly extends the battery life, ensuring that I rarely have to worry about charging the watch manually. This is incredibly convenient, especially during long hiking trips or outdoor activities where access to power sources is limited. The watch face is designed to maximize exposure to sunlight, efficiently converting it to energy and keeping the watch powered for days on end.Durability is a hallmark of the Garmin Instinct 2X Solar. Its rugged build can withstand all kinds of rough treatment, from bumps and drops to extreme weather conditions. I've used it in heavy rain, on dusty trails, and under the scorching sun, and it has performed flawlessly in every scenario. The graphite color not only looks sleek but also masks dirt and wear, keeping the watch looking new.The built-in flashlight has proven to be more useful than I initially thought. It's powerful enough to guide me through dark paths during night treks and convenient when I need to find something in my backpack after dusk. This feature adds an extra layer of utility, making the watch an indispensable tool for any adventure.As for navigation, the multi-band GNSS support ensures accurate location tracking in even the most challenging environments. Whether I'm in a deep valley, near tall buildings, or under thick canopy, the Garmin Instinct 2X Solar maintains a precise signal, giving me confidence in my location and route.The user interface is intuitive, and syncing with my smartphone is seamless, providing me with notifications, weather updates, and other essential information. The range of activity tracking features is impressive, from standard fitness metrics to specialized outdoor activities, all accurately monitored and recorded.The Garmin Instinct 2X Solar is a top-tier smartwatch that stands out for its solar charging, durability, and precise navigation. It's the perfect companion for anyone who loves the outdoors or needs a reliable timepiece that can handle the rigors of adventure. I highly recommend it to those seeking a rugged, feature-rich smartwatch that won’t let you down.
Great watch! 100 day review. I got it 100 days ago and have only charged it 5 times. I've used the GPS and activity tracking for about 125 hours, and ran over 135 miles, including 2 spartan races. The band is very durable and lets me tighten it as much as needed to keep most mud out, though the mud during one race did prevent it from tracking my HR properly for about 10 minutes. The watch itself is also durable, and it's activity tracking is as accurate most other Garmin trackers I've used. The GPS is fairly accurate though it does leave the trail by about 3 meters in the foliage (though you can make it more accurate if you want). The solar panel works very well and the battery lasts far longer than I need. The first charge lasted 32 days (charging at 10-20% battery). In total, in 100 days, I've worn it for all but 10 or so hours (while charging it). The torch is very nice too, though I use it very sparingly as it can rapidly drain the battery. I've found no fault with the watch so far in any activity including swimming, running, biking, HR broadcasting, or cardio (though some activities don't track properly on instinct series watches such as jumping rope). All in all, it's a great buy.
Great Middle Ground Smartwatch. This is the perfect activity watch/smartwatch for me. It can’t call or text from the watch itself, but those are features I rarely used on my Apple Watch anyway. It’ll still show you if you have a text, call, or any other notification but is geared toward being more of a great activity watch than a phone on your wrist.What’s great about this is how jam-packed with features it is. They took a ton of stuff that previously was only available in the fenix and epix watches and brought it to this instinct 2x solar. It has sleep tracking, activity tracking (with customizable screens for each activity), training readiness, heart rate, vo2 max, blood oxygen level, etc. Most apps charge money for the amount of detail this watch and app give you about your day to day and activities, but there’s no subscription on this. It’s all freeAnd it constantly checks heart rate. My old Apple Watch would check periodically but you could never glance down and see what the current hr was without tapping on the icon and waiting. With this watch it constantly is reading heart rate and keeps a graph showing the history (which you can have show on the watch face if you want).The battery is awesome, something like 40 days with how I have mine set up. And the solar charging actually works. I’ve heard that past versions it didn’t help all too much, but this one it really makes a difference. I added 2 days to my battery life from just a few hours in direct sunlight.The only places where this watch is lesser are the display and the navigation. If detailed maps and touch screen/oled screen are important to you, then go with the fenix or epix models. The navigation on this watch can be useful as it includes the trackback feature where it’ll guide you back on the path you came in on, line-of-sight tracking (keeps you on path if you have to go like down in a valley or around an obstacle where you might lose sense of direction), and you can even pre-load courses to follow later. However, it’s a pretty bare-bones navigation map. It has a pointer for your watch and a line showing the path and that’s about it. The epix and fenix watches have nicer displays, color, touchscreen, and more detailed maps which help a lot with navigation but you also sacrifice a significant amount of battery life for those features. And they’re double the price of this one.All in all, I think this is the perfect middle point for a watch. It has all the features from the top of the line ones that I need, along with crazy battery life and a decent price. If you don’t need detailed navigation but want great gps and activity tracking at half the cost of some of those other watches, this is a great option.
This thing is great I have always been a fan of automatic watches and solar watches with the ability to last a very long time. Well this the closest thing to an automatic smartwatch. The solar panel is awesome and some days that I am outside enough it will not even drain the battery and show infinite battery life. I have probably only plugged this watch in to charge 3 times this year since Christmas. It is a great watch, just get one already. Also the light on it which I thought would be a gimmick is so frickin useful I love it.
Absolutamente ÓTIMO!Relogio da tudo que promete, com uma bateria que durou mais de 17 dias com todos os aplicativos funcionando! Muito resistente!Vale muito a pena!
Un verdadero tanque de guerra, resistente, con excelente capacidad de batería, la confiabilidad de los productos Garmin.
Waiting time is a bit long but no complains as long as its cheap
Watch works great for what I need it for. Lots of features to figure out. Paired easily with my phone.
In this review, we will dive into the features, performance, and overall experience of the Garmin Instinct 2X, revealing why it is the ultimate choice for outdoor enthusiasts. So, strap in and prepare to explore the world confidently and precisely.
Key Takeaways
- The Garmin Instinct 2X is a rugged and reliable smartwatch for outdoor adventurers.
- It is designed to withstand tough conditions and offers advanced features like GPS and fitness monitoring.
- The watch has received positive feedback for its durability, accuracy, and long battery life.
- If you’re looking for a durable and feature-rich smartwatch for outdoor activities, the Garmin Instinct 2X is an excellent choice!
Design and Build Quality
At first glance, the Garmin Instinct 2X impresses with its rugged and sturdy appearance, indicating its outdoor-centric design. Crafted to endure challenging conditions, the watch is constructed with high-quality materials that promise durability and resilience. The fiber-reinforced polymer casing ensures the watch can withstand thermal, shock, and water resistance (up to 100 meters), making it an ideal choice for swimming, snorkeling, and rugged mountain trekking.
One of the standout features of the Garmin Instinct 2X’s design is its comfort. Despite its robust build, the watch is surprisingly lightweight and comfortable to wear for extended periods, a crucial factor for outdoor enthusiasts who spend long hours in the wilderness. The silicone band is soft yet durable, providing a snug fit without irritating the skin.
The Garmin Instinct 2X is available in various colors, catering to personal style preferences while maintaining its outdoor aesthetic. The watch’s overall design perfectly balances functionality and style, making it a suitable accessory for wilderness adventures and everyday wear.
At First Glance
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Design: | The Garmin Instinct 2X is a rugged smartwatch with a military-grade design built to withstand extreme conditions. It has a 50mm polymer case that is water-rated to 100 meters and shock-resistant. The watch is also dust-proof and can withstand temperatures from -20°C to 70°C. |
| Build Quality: | The Garmin Instinct 2X is built to last, and its solid construction is evident in its weight and feel. The watch is not too heavy, but it has a solid, sturdy feel that gives you confidence that it can withstand whatever you throw at it. The buttons on the watch are also well-made and easy to press, even with gloves on. |
| Display: | The Garmin Instinct 2X has a 1.4-inch sunlight-readable Corning Gorilla Glass DX display. The display is clear and easy to read, even in bright sunlight. It also has a wide viewing angle to see it from any direction. |
| Durability: | The Garmin Instinct 2X is MIL-STD-810G certified, which means that it has been tested to withstand extreme conditions, including shock, vibration, humidity, and extreme temperature. This makes it a great watch for people who are active outdoors or work in demanding environments. |
| Battery Life: | The battery life of the Garmin Instinct 2X is up to 30 days in smartwatch mode, 100 hours in GPS mode, and 28 days in UltraTrac mode. This means you can wear the watch all day and all night without worrying about running out of battery. |
Designed for resilience, the Garmin Instinct 2X strikes a perfect balance between robust construction and user comfort. It’s not just about surviving the elements; it’s about doing it in style and comfort.
Display and User Interface
Clear and Intuitive
| Feature | Garmin Instinct 2x |
|---|---|
| Display Type | 1.4″ sunlight-readable, transflective MIP (Memory-in-Pixel) color display |
| Screen Resolution | 280 x 280 pixels |
| Display Size | 35.5 x 43.3 x 14.4 mm |
| Display Weight | 53 grams |
| Display Colors | 16 |
| Display Backlight | Yes, Adjustable |
| Touchscreen | No |
| User Interface | Five buttons |
Display
The Garmin Instinct 2x has a 1.4″ sunlight-readable, transflective MIP (Memory-in-Pixel) color display. This type of display is very durable and can be seen clearly in direct sunlight. The display has a 280 x 280 pixels resolution and is 35.5 x 43.3 x 14.4 mm. The display is 53 grams and is available in various colors, including black, white, and camo.
User Interface
The Garmin Instinct 2x has a user interface that is easy to use, even outdoors. Five buttons control the interface. The buttons are easy to find and press, even with gloves on. The interface is also customizable, so you can choose the layout and information that is most important to you.
Overall
The Garmin Instinct 2x has a bright, clear display that is easy to use, even in direct sunlight. The interface is also user-friendly and customizable. Here is a table that summarizes the pros and cons of the Garmin Instinct 2x display and user interface:
| Feature | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|
| Display Type | Sunlight-readable, transflective MIP | Can be difficult to read in low light |
| Screen Resolution | 280 x 280 pixels | Limited color palette |
| Display Size | 35.5 x 43.3 x 14.4 mm | Small for some users |
| Display Colors | 16 | Fewer colors than some other smartwatches |
| Display Backlight | Yes, Adjustable | Can be difficult to see in low light |
| Touchscreen | No | No touchscreen |
| User Interface | Five buttons | Can be difficult to navigate with gloves |
| Easy to use | Easy to use | User-friendly |
Features and Functionality
Beyond the Basics
| Feature | Functionality |
|---|---|
| GPS | Accurate tracking, even in remote areas |
| Fitness Monitoring | Heart rate, barometric altimeter, 3-axis compass |
| Smart Connectivity | Notifications, smartphone integration, music control |
| Battery Life | Up to 28 days in smartwatch mode, 48 hours in GPS mode |
Features and Functionality
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Design | Rugged and durable, built to military standards (MIL-STD-810G) |
| Display | 1.4-inch sunlight-readable display, scratch-resistant Corning Gorilla Glass DX |
| Battery life | Up to 28 days in smartwatch mode, 30 hours in GPS mode, 50 hours in UltraTrac mode |
| GPS | Multi-band GPS for accurate tracking |
| Heart rate monitoring | 24/7 heart rate monitoring |
| Blood oxygen monitoring | Pulse Ox sensor for blood oxygen saturation |
| Sleep tracking | Advanced sleep tracking with sleep stages and insights |
| Stress tracking | Stress tracking with relaxation reminders |
| Fitness tracking | Over 30 built-in sports apps, including running, cycling, swimming, and hiking |
| Smart features | Calls, text messages, notifications, weather, music controls |
| Location services | Compass, altimeter, barometer |
| Other features | Customizable watch faces, Garmin Pay contactless payments, incident detection |
The Garmin Instinct 2X has many features that cater to a wide range of outdoor and fitness activities. Its top-notch GPS functionality provides accurate location tracking even in remote areas. This is complemented by GLONASS and Galileo support, ensuring reliable navigation no matter where your adventures take you.
For fitness enthusiasts, the watch offers advanced monitoring features like a heart rate monitor, a barometric altimeter, and a 3-axis compass. These features allow for detailed tracking of your workouts and outdoor activities, providing valuable data to help you monitor and improve your performance.
The smart connectivity features of the Instinct 2X are also noteworthy. You can receive smart notifications directly on your watch, stay connected with your smartphone, and even control music playback. This integration ensures you stay connected even when you’re off the grid.
Battery life is a critical aspect of any outdoor watch, and the Garmin Instinct 2X excels in this area. With up to 28 days in smartwatch mode and up to 48 hours in GPS mode, the watch can accompany you on extended trips without frequent charging. This long battery life and various power-saving options make the Instinct 2X a reliable partner for long expeditions.
Performance in Outdoor and Fitness Activities
| Activity | Performance |
|---|---|
| Outdoor Navigation | Built-in GPS, GLONASS, Galileo, and QZSS sensors for accurate tracking in all environments |
| Multi-GNSS Support | Supports multiple global navigation satellite systems (GNSS) for improved positioning accuracy |
| TopoActive Maps | TopoActive maps for over 2,000 ski resorts worldwide and 40,000 trails in the U.S. |
| Backcountry Ski Maps | Backcountry ski maps for over 2,000 ski resorts worldwide |
| Surfline Sessions | Surfline Sessions integration to record and review your surfing sessions |
| TracBack | TracBack feature to follow the same route back to your starting point |
| Round-Trip Routing | Round-trip routing feature to plan a route and automatically calculate the return path |
| Track Recording | Track recording feature to record your activities and share them with others |
| Fitness Tracking | Heart rate monitoring, stress monitoring, sleep monitoring, and VO2 max estimation |
| Workout Profiles | Over 30 built-in workout profiles for running, cycling, swimming, hiking, and more |
| Advanced Running Dynamics | Advanced running dynamics to track your running performance |
| Swim Tracking | Swim tracking to track your laps, distance, pace, and stroke type |
| MTB Dynamics | MTB Dynamics to track your jumps, climbs, and descents |
| Golf Course Mapping | Golf course mapping for over 41,000 courses worldwide |
| Smart Notifications | Smart notifications to stay connected with your phone |
| Stamina | Stamina feature to estimate your remaining energy |
| Weather | Weather forecast |
| Respiration Rate | Respiration rate monitoring |
| Body Battery | Body Battery feature to track your energy levels |
| Garmin Pay | Garmin Pay contactless payment |
| Battery Life | Up to 28 days in smartwatch mode |
Overall, the Garmin Instinct 2X is an excellent smartwatch for outdoor and fitness enthusiasts. It offers many features that can help you track your activities, stay connected, and stay safe.
Here are some additional details about the Garmin Instinct 2X that you may find interesting:
- It is made of durable fiber-reinforced polymer and is water-rated to 100 meters.
- It has a 1.4-inch display with a scratch-resistant lens.
- It is compatible with Android and iOS devices.
Tested in the Wild
We subjected the Garmin Instinct 2X to various outdoor challenges, and it excelled in accuracy, durability, and versatility.
User Experience and Customer Feedback
Honest Opinions
From durability to functionality, the Instinct 2X has garnered positive feedback, with users appreciating its robust build and reliable performance.
Comparison with Other Smartwatches
Standing Out
| Feature | Garmin Instinct 2X | Apple Watch Series 7 | Samsung Galaxy Watch 4 | Suunto 9 Peak |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Display | 1.4-inch, 280×280 pixels, sunlight-readable MIP | 1.9-inch, 410×480 pixels, OLED | 1.4-inch, 450×450 pixels, AMOLED | 1.78-inch, 416×416 pixels, AMOLED |
| Battery life | Up to 28 days (wrist heart rate only) | Up to 18 hours (GPS mode) | Up to 40 hours (GPS mode) | Up to 170 hours (GPS mode) |
| Durability | MIL-STD-810G standard | WR50 water resistance | 5 ATM water resistance | 100 m water resistance |
| GPS | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Heart rate monitoring | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| SpO2 monitoring | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Sleep tracking | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Stress tracking | Yes | Yes | Yes | No |
| Fitness tracking | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Smart features | Notifications, music control, Garmin Pay | Notifications, music control, Apple Pay | Notifications, music control, Samsung Pay | Notifications, music control |
| Price | $449 | $399 | $279 | $539 |
Overall, the Garmin Instinct 2X is a great smartwatch for outdoor enthusiasts and those who want a durable and long-lasting device. The Apple Watch Series 7 is a great choice for Apple users who want a stylish and feature-rich smartwatch. The Samsung Galaxy Watch 4 is a good option for Android users who want a smartwatch with various health-tracking features. The Suunto 9 Peak is a great choice for athletes who want a smartwatch with advanced training features.
Here is a table that summarizes the key differences between the four smartwatches:
| Feature | Garmin Instinct 2X | Apple Watch Series 7 | Samsung Galaxy Watch 4 | Suunto 9 Peak |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Focus | Outdoor activities | Daily use | Fitness and health tracking | Advanced training |
| Display | Sunlight-readable MIP | OLED | AMOLED | AMOLED |
| Battery life | Up to 28 days | Up to 18 hours | Up to 40 hours | Up to 170 hours |
| Durability | MIL-STD-810G | WR50 | 5 ATM | 100 m |
| GPS | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Heart rate monitoring | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| SpO2 monitoring | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Sleep tracking | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Stress tracking | Yes | Yes | Yes | No |
| Fitness tracking | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Smart features | Notifications, music control, Garmin Pay | Notifications, music control, Apple Pay | Notifications, music control, Samsung Pay | Notifications, music control |
| Price | $449 | $399 | $279 | $539 |
When pitted against its contemporaries, the Instinct 2X shines in its commitment to outdoor functionality and ruggedness.
User Experience and Customer Feedback
User reviews and feedback have been instrumental in understanding the real-world application of the Garmin Instinct 2X. Users often highlight the watch’s robust build, long battery life, and reliable GPS functionality as its strongest points. The comfort and ease of use have also been widely praised, making it a favorite among tech-savvy users and those new to smartwatches.
| Feature | User Experience | Customer Feedback |
|---|---|---|
| Build Quality | Durable and rugged | “I’ve taken this watch on some pretty rugged adventures, and it has held up great.” |
| Battery Life | Excellent battery life | “I can go for weeks without having to recharge this watch.” |
| GPS Accuracy | Very accurate GPS | “I’ve used this watch for hiking and running, and the GPS is always spot-on.” |
| Heart Rate Accuracy | Very accurate heart rate monitoring | “I’ve compared the heart rate readings on this watch to my chest strap, and they’re always very close.” |
| Sleep Tracking | Accurate sleep tracking | “This watch tracks my sleep very well, and I can see how I’m improving my sleep habits.” |
| Stress Tracking | Accurate stress tracking | “This watch is a great way to monitor my stress levels, and it helps me to manage my stress better.” |
| Hydration Tracking | Easy-to-use hydration tracking | “I love that this watch tracks my hydration levels, and it helps me to stay hydrated.” |
| Body Battery | Unique Body Battery feature | “This feature is really cool, and it helps me to know when I’m well-rested and when I need to take a break.” |
| Display | Bright and easy-to-read display | “The display on this watch is very bright and easy to read, even in direct sunlight.” |
| User Interface | Intuitive user interface | “The user interface on this watch is very easy to use, and I can find all of the features that I need quickly.” |
| Software | Regular software updates | “Garmin is constantly updating the software on this watch, which keeps it up-to-date with the latest features.” |
| Overall | Excellent smartwatch with a focus on outdoor activities | “I highly recommend this watch to anyone who is looking for a durable, accurate, and feature-rich smartwatch.” |
Here are some additional things to keep in mind about the Garmin Instinct 2X:
- It is a large watch, so it may not be the best choice for people with small wrists.
- It is not as stylish as some other smartwatches, but it is built for durability.
- It is a bit expensive but worth the price if you want a high-quality smartwatch.
However, no product is without its drawbacks. Some users have noted the lack of a color display as a downside, especially compared to traditional smartwatches. Others have mentioned a learning curve with the button-based interface, particularly for those accustomed to touchscreen controls.
Despite these minor points, the overall user sentiment towards the Garmin Instinct 2X is overwhelmingly positive, with many users recommending it as a top choice for outdoor enthusiasts.
Pros and Cons
| Feature | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|
| Durability and Ruggedness | Built to withstand extreme conditions, including water depths of up to 100 meters and extreme temperatures from -30°C to 60°C. | May be too bulky or heavy for some people. |
| Exceptional Battery Life | Up to 28 days in smartwatch mode and 32 days in Expedition mode with solar charging. | Battery life may not last as long for users who frequently use GPS or other demanding features. |
| Accurate GPS and Heart Rate Tracking | Some sport-specific features may not be as detailed as those on dedicated sports watches. | GPS accuracy may not be as good in certain environments, such as dense forests or urban areas. |
| Extensive Sport and Fitness Tracking | Supports over 30 preloaded sports profiles, including running, cycling, swimming, and more. | Some health and wellness features may not be as accurate as dedicated health trackers. |
| Advanced Health and Wellness Features | Tracks sleep, stress, and hydration levels. | Some health and wellness features may be less accurate than dedicated health trackers. |
| Advanced Navigation Features | Provides navigation features, such as a built-in compass, altimeter, and barometer. | Navigation features may not be as advanced as those on dedicated outdoor watches. |
| Intuitive User Interface | Easy to use and navigate, even with gloves on. | User interface may not be as customizable as on some other smartwatches. |
| Smartwatch Features | Supports notifications from your smartphone, music storage, and Garmin Pay contactless payments. | Some smartwatch features may not be as advanced as those on other smartwatches. |
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Overall, the Garmin Instinct 2X is a high-quality smartwatch well-suited for outdoor enthusiasts and those looking for a durable and feature-rich device. It is also a good option for people looking for a smartwatch focusing on health and wellness tracking.
Here are some additional things to keep in mind about the Garmin Instinct 2X:
- It is a large watch, so it may not be the best choice for people with small wrists.
- It is not as stylish as some other smartwatches, but it is built for durability.
- It is a bit expensive but worth the price if you are looking for a high-quality smartwatch.
Conclusion and Recommendations
The Garmin Instinct 2X is more than just a smartwatch; it’s a versatile tool designed for the rigors of the outdoors and the demands of an active lifestyle. With its rugged build, long battery life, and a suite of features tailored for adventure, it stands out as a top contender in its category.
This watch is particularly well-suited for outdoor enthusiasts, adventurers, and fitness buffs who need a reliable and durable device to track their activities. It’s also a great choice for those who appreciate a watch that can handle everyday wear and tear while providing useful smart features.
For anyone in the market for a smartwatch that can seamlessly transition from urban settings to wild adventures, the Garmin Instinct 2X is an excellent choice. Its functionality, durability, and user-friendly design make it a smartwatch that can keep pace with the most adventurous lifestyles.
Garmin Instinct 2X Solar Tactical (Coyote Tan) Rugged GPS Smartwatch - Flashlight, Ballistics Calculator, Solar Lens - with Screen Protectors & Portable Charger - XL, 50mm
User reviews
Better than what I could've asked for. Amazing watch, as someone in the miltary this watch is better than perfect. And this watch is amazing. The biggest and bets feature is the battery 30+ days especially with the solar charging. This watch is a dream. I do wish the charging was wireless so you don't have to buy the specific garmin charger. But other than that i have no complaints it charges fast as well.The different modes for miltary is what makes this watch so good. Including solar charge, diffenret time zones displayed on the watch, a grid that can be accessed from just a button, the toughness, and still bluetooth. This is better than what I could've asked for.My only complaints are the price and the wish that it could've been wirelessly able to charge. But other than that, this watch delivered and I use this watch everyday.
Much better than the Instinct 1. This watch is a lot more in tune with fitness tracking, it gives you more info such as how you benefit from a work out or even just a walk. O2 sensor, etc...It just seems more of a complete package over the first version. The solar function I assume works although it's been raining alot this winter and because it's cold I'm wearing long sleeve shirts and jackets . So hopefully more sun in the spring and summer. Anyways if you are considering the Instinct 1 , I would spend the extra and get the Instinct 2. More current tech, lots of info, more features.
Amazing watch. More then I ever expected
Great watch, meh color. I've owned several Instincts but this one is best. I have about 30 watches and this one is my favorite as far as functionality goes. My only issue is instead of being a brilliant fire red as in the pictures it's cross between pink and red, sort of a peach or light soft red. Had already bought 3 extra quick change bands before the watch arrived. I already knew I love the previous model of instinct so I was all hyped up about getting it. Probably end up selling it (and the extra bands) and get the moss green version. Would have been 5 stars without a doubt had the color been what they show in the pictures.
So far so great. Have had garmin products before and loved them my only grip was the aftermarket support was poor. The watch band I got snapped and I lost my original watch in a river after jumping off a waterfall cliff. So watch out for that, otherwise all the features for an outdoorsman and the extended battery life is something I’m looking forward to
Watch is rugged, reliable and easy to use. This is my grail watch. It does everything I want in a watch. From tracking my fitness to simply telling the time it's accurate. It can work independently from my phone which is critical for me. I have now had it for 3 months. The buttons have a nice positive click so you know your pressing something. I have submerged it, got it dirty, banged it on doors and things at work with no problems. The watch is very comfortable to wear and light but it has enough weight to know I'm wearing it. The battery life is amazing lasting me 28 days with normal use. That's including tracking my walks and full smart watch features including heart rate. The band has many notches so its easy to find the right size for my wrist. If I had to nitpick I wish it could save music on the watch so that I could leave my phone and still use my earbuds bit that's 1st world problem. The watch is amazing! I would buy it again. Get it!
Great features. This is a replacement Garmin that I upgraded for the solar charging feature. Thus far, the battery reports 22 days until charge needed despite 3 days of use with exercise. I have yet to test the battery life with a prolonged event - the reason I chose this watch.
Great with new Screen protector. Watch is great and the battery makes for a great little compact backup for the price though a little dated and not great for charging phone (1 amp out, 2amp micro USB charge) but good to have on trip for battery. The screen protectors don't fit. The size seems correct but the curvature is off. Note the black area in the picture in the center of the display is the only spot where there is contact. I tried the second one to make sure it wasn't a fluke but it was also like a flat screen protector on a curved display.Update - company sent me new film screen protectors. Instructions say to apply to center first and work outward but I find it applied without bubbled better when I rolled in on from an edge. New screen protectors work well, look great (I can't even tell they are on it) but they do cut down a little, estimating about 20% (I don't have equipment to study it properly) but to me well worth it for the extra protection.
Alex is a fitness aficionado, empowers others towards healthier, active lives through small, sustainable changes for lasting results. Visit Gearuptofit.com for insightful tips and resources to enrich a balanced lifestyle.