Garmin releases fēnix 7 and epix Gen 2 sports watches with touchscreens

Garmin is introducing new models in its fēnix and epix line of sports watches. The fēnix 7-series gets trans-reflective LCDs again, but those are now also touchscreens. The second-generation epix models will have an AMOLED touchscreen.

Like the fēnix 6 watches, the models from the new fēnix 7 series can be controlled with physical buttons, but this time the smartwatches also have a touchscreen. The fēnix 7 series consists of models of 42mm, 47mm and 51mm, with screens of 1.2″, 1.3″ and 1.4″. These are the fēnix 7S, 7 and 7X.

The large fēnix 7X model is the only one to get an LED light that doubles as a flashlight. Solar versions of all versions are available with a transparent solar panel in the screen to extend the battery life. There are also Sapphire Solar variants, with a protective layer of sapphire glass.

Also new to the fēnix 7 series is support for multi-band GNSS. Different bands of satellite navigation systems can be combined. The watches support GPS, Glonass and Galileo.

Garmin fenix 7 series

The Garmin watches are aimed at athletes and can record a variety of activities. It is also possible to connect to smartphones to receive notifications. The watches also support Garmin Pay and users can listen to music offline.

The cheapest model of the fēnix 7 series is on the Garmin website for 700 euros. This concerns versions of 42 mm and 47 mm without solar panel. The larger 7X version is available from 900 euros and that always concerns Solar versions.

Garmin is also introducing a second generation of the epix sports watch. This model is largely similar to the fēnix 7, but instead of a transreflective LCD, the epix Gen 2 has an always-on 1.3″ AMOLED display. That is also a touchscreen. Prices start at 900 euros. According to Garmin websites the watches are available within a few weeks, depending on the chosen version.

Garmin epix Gen 2