Great and honest review. It’s so rare to see reviews of gadgets these days, as most of them are only recommending “more and better features”. And here you are giving an honest opinion based on long term experience with both these watches. Your other videos are great too. 👍🏼

@RandoRaf

8 ай бұрын

Thanks Jeff.

For those who value comfort at most -> I recommend getting even Instinct 2S I have compared 2 vs 2S and the difference is really noticeable (FYI: pure numbers are 52g vs 43g, 45mm vs 40mm, 14.5mm vs 13.3mm). 2S is even smaller and lighter than my old G-Shock (AW-591), yet capable of displaying so many information just on the watch face (and even more after downloading custom one from Connect IQ Store). Just beware that 2S has max 18cm wrist size - so for bigger arms one would have to buy longer band (e.g. silicone bands from Garmin store, although I personally bought some non-original nylon one). I hope it'll suit you well!

I'm weighing my options and you're video is just confirming my thoughts. I think ill be getting the Instinct 2x. Thank you Sir!

@emdblyou

4 ай бұрын

I just got my 2x and I love it!

@IHaulBoxes

4 ай бұрын

@@emdblyou Enjoy your new companion! It's delivering on all its promises.

@emdblyou

4 ай бұрын

@@IHaulBoxes Thank you! I will! :)

I just love the screen on the instinct. It always looks super clear. The fact that it does some fitness stuff and never needs charging is a bonus. Im a pretty hardcore cyclist so being able to link it to strava is good also.

Have instinct 2x and love it! Battery life, awesome display, torch etc.

great review .. also Nice background music

Very useful video. Thanks so much for your opinion!

Thanks for the video.

I use the instinct solar, and it fits my mo. I'm an environmental scientist and use the wrist navigator regularly. To me, it's a safety device. I work between 7k and 12k feet amsl. So heart rate and pulse ox is very informative within their known limitations. Definitely the quintessential watch for wilderness activities.

The weight of the fenix doesn’t bother me and I like the touch screen from time to time. I like that you can also disable touch. As a paramedic I can leave my phone on vibrate (much more polite with caring for patients) and at least see my notifications while gloved.

4:53 I love how you tried to swipe up the screen, just because of intuition 🤣 It often happens to me at work on the workstations with a monitor and I want to select something and try to touch on the monitor. 🙈

@RandoRaf

11 ай бұрын

haha I know we've been conditioned. I used to make fun my kids when try to swipe everything now I'm doing it to. and yes I also assume every laptop is touchscreen.

I think comparison to Fenix 6 would be better because when I was getting the Instinct 2 Solar the Fenix 6 cost pretty much the same and apparently has almost the same hardware.

I agree with you, between them, I would pick Instinct 2

@RandoRaf

Жыл бұрын

The 7Pro is giving it a run for the money. The flashlight has me hooked.

I too am a long term user/alternator of the Fenix 7 sapphire & Instinct 2. Agree on comfort. You didn’t mention Fenix only has mapping, I use maps all the time running or hiking.

@RandoRaf

Жыл бұрын

Both great watches. I finally pulled trigger on the 7 Pro.

Today my Instinct 2X came. Now I use Epix for Office and Instinct for the dirt sports

@RandoRaf

Жыл бұрын

I really want to try the 2X but size is concern for me.

@foetor

Жыл бұрын

@@RandoRaf for me normal Instinct 2 was too small and 2X is perfect, not that big like 7X

@RandoRaf

Жыл бұрын

@@foetor Yea I'm tempted to still try it. Im sucker for the flashlight feature.

@Ju_Johnny_

Жыл бұрын

@@RandoRaf is it Much bigger than the instinct 2

@alifmokha

11 ай бұрын

​​@@RandoRafyou have to try it on your wrist. I have 2x. And my wrist size is 16cm. Actually it fit on my wrist not even feel too big. I think the shape of the lug and band curved like g-shock. So if you have g shock. It feels like wearing g shock style. But feels much lighter

I still have an original Instinct solar. It’s great for my uses. I prefer a larger watch so the Instinct 2x looks like it’s right up my alley. That being said, I love watches, period (I’m a Casio and Timex guy). I love the craftsmanship of a mechanical watch, and the most athletic things I do these days is walking and hiking, so I can’t justify upgrading especially if I rotate watches. Great review.

@RandoRaf

Жыл бұрын

That's my dilemma I have lot watches that I like to wear. I wish Garmin made like band similar to whoop so you can still collect data while wearing my automatic watches.

@FiremanFrach

Жыл бұрын

@@RandoRaf A lot of folks wear a watch on either wrist, but I can't bring myself to do that (feels too weird). I had to teach myself that it's ok to take off the smart watch and rotate watches. Hard to fight the feeling that I am "obligated" to wear the Garmin all the time.

@RandoRaf

Жыл бұрын

@@FiremanFrach Yea I tried that while back during fitbit era with small wearable but just thought looked a silly. I recently got whoop which is great as can wear on upper arm or ankle and wear my reg watches more.

@FiremanFrach

Жыл бұрын

@@RandoRaf I’ll have to check it out.

@RandoRaf

Жыл бұрын

@@FiremanFrach They are on verge adding big update for weightlifting which could maybe be the game changer for me to move fully to whoop vs garmin.

I'm having the same dilemma, I have the 7X Solar Sapphire, but couldn't help but order myself the Instinct 2X Solar Tactical... I know I'll love both, but after a lot of reviews, I know I'll be selling my Fenix 7X Solar Sapphire. I wish the Instinct 2X had sapphire power glass, if they make the instinct 3X with it, it will be THE watch for me... Sapphire really makes it so much more easier to clean and gives peace of mind knowing that you're not likely going to put any scratches/micro scratches on the glass by cleaning it. I know I'll have to put a tempered glass protector on the Instinct 2X though... which is a bummer, I'd gladly pay an extra $200 to Garmin if they simply made a version using Sapphire power glass.

I have the same watches too, and I mainly wear my Instinct 2 Solar 95% of the time. Exactly same reasons. I love my Fenix but every time I wear it, it doesn’t take long before I want to change back to my Instinct because of how more comfortable and light weight it is. So much nicer to wear all day. I also fine the Instinct easier to read in low light environments.

@RandoRaf

Жыл бұрын

Yes good call out on visibility. I agree instinct is easier to read in low lights.

Been using the original instinct for about 3 years and by far it's been the most effective watch I've had. Really want the fenix 7 but I'm afraid I'll damage it at work😂 . But I want it so baaaaad 😅

@robj3773

Жыл бұрын

Go for the sapphire version that is durable

@AtomTrialRace

8 ай бұрын

Same situation, but I order f7sapphire. My old Instinct tundra after being almost 4 years is in great shape, looks like new exept watchband.

I had an Instinct (1) Solar before I got the Fenix 7 Solar. The older instinct did not track golf, nor did it have mapping. Those are the two features that motivated me to get the Fenix. Honestly, I still miss the Instinct. I loved the Tidal Blue color, the rugged design, and how light the watch is. Both are awesome watches!

@RandoRaf

7 ай бұрын

Yea I can understand that. I go through same. I like fenix more but when i get rid of instinct i miss it. So now i just keep both.

I love my Fenix 7, but I do really miss my instinct 1. That little watch was a game changer. I can totally see why you'd be torn here. The only reason I take the Fenix now is because with a leather strap it looks a little nicer in my office environment. But certainly not a deal breaker.

I say go for 2x. I just got mine and it's not that much bigger than original Garmin Instinct. I had the original and then solar powered (both version 1) and now have the 2x. Significant upgrade. Battery is insane, bigger screen and solar panels big plus as well, and like you said the flashlight comes very handy.

What about the extra features

I've been using the Instinct 2 Solar Tactical x2 for about 6 months now. I love it. The 2x is not gigantic, feels very comfortable and I always sleep with it on. I love the torch function. Mine has the green setting rather than red. The Monochrome screen is so easy to read in bright sunlight and normal light. I really cannot fault this watch. I had wondered about buying the Fenix or Epix, but even if they were all the same price, I might still pick the Instinct. The battery life is amazing. 42 days and then keeps topping up. I hardly ever have to use the charging cable. Sleep tracking is really good and I use the Connect phone app. I can't help wondering what Garmin will do for the Instinct 3?

@RandoRaf

8 ай бұрын

I finally ordered mine so can't wait to try.

@OmyLeg

6 ай бұрын

What about the screen? It's not sapphire, doest it get scratches?

Is garmin instinct 2 solar good watch for all day users? I mean that i can go on work with this watch and that i can swim with this watch or just casual walking.Or go with Fenix 7 for every day? Thank you for answer 😊 Nice video btw

My dilemma is between the instinct 2 and the fenix 6. The instinct 2 looks perfect for me and its cheaper but my only problem with it is that you cant download music to the watch and listen without your phone… Any recommendations?

Both watches have huge pros and cons, depending on what you need for YOUR lifestyle. I don't need top maps and the Fenix is definitely outside of my budget. However, all the features on the 2X are more than enough for the 'average Joe' - the price point is affordable. Also, cannot beat the battery life of the 2X in comparison to the Fenix.

What about the fenix in smaller size? To gain in comfort due to less weight and dimensions, how would it compare to instinct? I own the first instinct and I still love it, the only function I’m really missing is maps of the fenix actually.

@RandoRaf

Жыл бұрын

would probably help. I just got f7 pro and tried out velcro strap surprised how much strap made Fenix "feel" smaller. just better fit watch doesn't bounce around

@christiansbn8123

Жыл бұрын

@@RandoRaf yea the Velcro strap is just the best band you could get for any Garmin. I have it on my instinct and since I bought it never changed!

@RandoRaf

Жыл бұрын

@@christiansbn8123 ya I avoided it due moisture concerns but finally gave in and wow so much more comfortable

hate that my instinct 2x dose not read my HR because of sleeve tattoo :(. other than that great bit of kit

How durable is the glass on the Instinct 2? Do you recommend a screen protector/tempered glass? I have the Instinct 2 for a week now w/o it. BTW, can I run it under tap water say after a workout just to wash off the sweat?

@RandoRaf

8 ай бұрын

I would def put on screen protector, they cost little and very unnoticeable so I can't see a reason to not use it. I even put it on my Fenix Saphhire. Yes its def waterproof. You run it over water, shower, go down water slides.

@jtcber

8 ай бұрын

@@RandoRaf Great thanks for the reply.

@haniefharun

5 ай бұрын

Get a screen protector. My instinct 2 solar tactical scratched after 1 months of wearing. Im very careful with my watch. As an IT guy, my work just sitting on my chair and staring at my monitor for at least 9 hours.

instinct 2 solar it s freaking great man... battery is just wow, so all the functions...for gym run, bike, it s great nothing more.and for notification exacly what u need.

You do not talk about the most important thing, the cartographic GPS. The question is, what do you use the watch for?

I’m looking for a video where you compare Fenix 5, 6, 7 and Instinct 2X. I’m debating between these…. maybe Runner 965 too.

@RandoRaf

2 ай бұрын

Haviing owned all those. fenix 7 pro wins over all previous fenixs as display is better. I just got 965 today. Instinct 2x is amazing if you can handle the size.

@Marian1st.

2 ай бұрын

@@RandoRaf Thanks! I decided to go with Instinct 2X.

Wat about the map?

What about inst2sol vs epix 2 ? I wanted watches for every day use . Epix i think they are more "modern" and casual , and inst are more tool watch as I like because I am mechanic and I am scared than I'll break epix or scratch them, I wanted both of them but can pick only one :(

@RandoRaf

8 ай бұрын

Thats a tough choice. I think you should consider Fenix7 Pro, its really a good middle ground watch of the 2. You get large color screen like epix and you get battery life and durability of instinct. I personally am not a fan amoled watches given the sacrifice to battery and durability.

@davidvitez9357

8 ай бұрын

@@RandoRaf pro version is beyond my budget and the price is too high considering that instincts also offer the same functions I use (hr, sleep tracking , strenght training , nfc , sometimes run or hike and alarm :D ) I'm only looking at epix 2 because there is a 44% sale on them and for 480 it's a great price for brand new one . I can have Instinct 2 solar new for 280€ . I think it will be enough for me because before I had fenix 5 plus dlc titan but they died after 5 years. Well, they were quite enough for me because I'm not a professional athlete. With instinct, I won't be afraid to scratch them like I totaly scratched my fenix 5 which had dlc coating and were scratched just like every other watch, but I will miss the feeling of premiumness on my hand. On the other side , if I want premiumness, I will wear my Swiss tissots.

@user-ur4lv4zh4h

4 ай бұрын

@@RandoRaf The Epix Pro comes very close to the Fenix in terms of battery. I do like maps and pre-build routes while hiking on a watch (have an old FR945 for that), tried the Fenix 7 and Epix and I keep coming back to my Instinct 2 Solar. Underrated watch, can't really pin point what about that watch and most of the time the breadcrumb navigation is sufficient.

How much battery are you getting out from Instinct 2 solar? (With or without solar exposure) Is it really matching with the specs shared by Garmin?, which is 28 days and 60+ OR infinite battery with solar exposure

@RandoRaf

Жыл бұрын

I dont get that kind of performance maybe when was brand new but I would get probably closer to 21 days if i left it run to the end I will always charge well before then to keep it topped off. But on Instinct solar charging is legit feature, I have actually seeing battery % go up while wearing it vs Fenix its really not that effective, maybe slows down draw.

@JoyDasjoydasofficial

Жыл бұрын

You are still very lucky if getting 21 days battery, mine is barely making it beyond 2 weeks. This is all happening when I am charging battery till 100 (almost). Could be flaw which I have observed or my instinct 2 might be a bad unit, but after a certain percentage, battery is dropping very quickly (that too on default settings)

Does they receive text notifications in a similar way?

@RandoRaf

Ай бұрын

Yes they do. Fenix7 having touchscreen makes it little easier to handle notifications. But they function same way.

Flashlight I expect will come to all sizes of the next version Instinct just like it came to all size versions of Fenix 7 PRO & Epix 2 PRO

what diameter has the instinct 2?

@RandoRaf

8 ай бұрын

45mm

I think you'd really like the Forerunner

@RandoRaf

Жыл бұрын

Yes new one is on my short list.

hello, which is the most robust for bushcraft hiking

@RandoRaf

4 ай бұрын

Instinct i find to be more robust. A better bushcraft watch.

@kenshinlevgb3538

4 ай бұрын

@@RandoRaf thank you the same sensor as on the fenix 7 sapphire solar?

Ok

I wonder how they synchronize. There isn't a single decent video on the subject. What are your experiences, how do you choose in the app which watch is currently in use? It would be nice if you could make a detailed video. Believe me, there are a lot of interested in having two Garmin watches but they worry about sharing data like HRV, Training status, recovery time...

@RandoRaf

Жыл бұрын

in app settings you can specify the primary watch when there is conflict with data. I've always own'd several garmin watches and data syncs. In past you had to specify the primary and only primary would track sleep. But now with true up no need. I wear instinct for few days then fenix for few days and data syncs up. But you should turn off primary when not wearing because if they are both tracking at same time primary will be used.

@RandoRaf

Жыл бұрын

support.garmin.com/en-US/?faq=a2uguZzTQG4I2HTBvHa0gA

@dragandjurovic5790

Жыл бұрын

Thanks for the reply. It's a good idea to make a detailed video, believe me.

The Fenix feels so cold in harsh conditon and when running it feels so heavy. It has maps and music but you never use that. Fenix 6 also has color screen, but you don't need that either. Instinct feels lighter and is, it has a military standard and feels warm and smaller on the wrist.

@RandoRaf

8 ай бұрын

Yes agree. What I found that has made my fenix much more comfortable is moving to velcro strap. Keeps watch feeling snugger with less jiggling around.

Instinct all the way.

Garmin needs to make the entire Fenix line with the same screen as the Epix gen 2 🤷🏻‍♂️

@RandoRaf

Жыл бұрын

I'd actually love to see color screen on Instinct.

Beautiful pancake watches 😂😂

@BhutWhut

3 ай бұрын

Are you in your senses?

Great video