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With the Fenix 8 Pro series, Garmin has launched a new generation of multisport smartwatches onto the market - for the first time with fully integrated inReach technology for satellite and LTE communication. This allows users to send messages without a smartphone, share their location live and make an interactive SOS emergency call in the event of an emergency. The Fenix 8 Pro series uses either a satellite or LTE connection, depending on network availability. Garmin's inReach technology is used for satellite communication, for which a separate subscription is required. This allows text messages to be exchanged with people who have the Garmin Messenger app on their smartphone or a compatible mobile phone. Garmin watch use. It is also possible to send location data for travel tracking. Garmin expands the communication options via LTE: Here, voice calls are possible with other Fenix 8 Pro users as well as with contacts who have the Garmin Messenger app installed. The Garmin Fenix 8 Pro costs €1,299 and is available from Mountain friends or Rosebikes available.
Positive test result
Garmin's Fenix 8 Pro sets the standard for GPS sports watches - its competitors have to be measured against it. Especially those who want messaging and phone functions will be satisfied. While the Fenix 6 and 7 still had weaknesses, the latest model offers a convincing overall package. The display and battery life in particular have been continuously improved in recent years. The Fenix 8 Pro is a sophisticated multisport watch with a very wide range of functions. The sensors are good and the simple connection with apps or products such as Garmin power meters is a plus point. The GPS satellites are found very quickly and the connection is stable. The version with a 51 millimetre Amoled display allows good navigation. The watch has a small loudspeaker, so you can theoretically make phone calls when connected to your smartphone - but the sound quality is not very good. The speaker is more helpful as a sports tool: for example, if you load an interval training programme onto the watch, you can receive information on how to perform it. The watch reminds you of the start of the interval and provides information if you do not keep to the required intensity. There is no criticism of the watch's technical functions - however, the price has risen again compared to the previous models. We did not test the SOS function.
Garmin Fenix 8 Pro with the best maps
Garmin's strength lies in its very detailed pre-installed maps (TopoActive Europe). Especially when you are travelling on foot and have time to look at your watch, the details are a big plus point. On the high-resolution display, you can identify even the smallest details in the terrain or recognise street names in the city. If you are travelling in a faster sport and want to see the map at a glance, you can change the level of detail in the settings. Turn-by-turn navigation via the watch's loudspeaker or the connected smartphone works well. However, if you want to zoom in or out on the map during the activity, this is much more complicated than with the Suunto Race 2.
Garmin Fenix 8 Pro model variants
The Fenix 8 Pro series is available in several variants. The Fenix 8 Pro AMOLED is available in 47 millimetre and 51 millimetre sizes and starts at €1199.99 (RRP). According to Garmin, it offers a battery life of up to 27 days in smartwatch mode. The Fenix 8 Pro MicroLED is only available in the 51 millimetre size, has a battery life of up to 10 days in smartwatch mode according to Garmin and costs €1999.99 (RRP). All models have titanium bezels, which contributes to a high-quality appearance. The entire Fenix 8 Pro series will be available from 8 September 2025. A separate Garmin subscription is required to use inReach technology, while LTE functionality requires network coverage.
Conclusion
- Price 1,299 euros (51 mm diameter) >> at Mountain friends or Rosebikes
- Unique selling point The biggest new feature of the Pro model is the SOS function; it allows you to call for help directly via the watch even without a mobile phone network, which is particularly useful in remote areas, e.g. when mountain climbing. However, this requires an inReach subscription. Contactless payment with Garmin Pay is another unique selling point of Garmin watches. You can use it to pay wherever there is a contactless till with an NFC chip.
- Furnishings Set-up is extremely simple and very quick. Because the maps are already pre-installed, you can get started after just a few minutes.
- Maps Very good topo map pre-installed
- Height measurement Barometer + GPS
- Display size 43/47/51 mm
- Weight 90 grammes
Kristian Bauer
Editor
