Should I pull the trigger on Fenix 8 47mm?
I’ve just started running and I’m trying to actually stick with it. My main reason for getting a Garmin is to have something that can act as a bit of a coach, help me structure my training, and track things like recovery, sleep, heart rate, training readiness, general health metrics, etc.
I was originally looking at the Forerunner 570, since running is my main focus and, realistically, I’m very much a beginner. But now the Fenix 8 has dropped to around USD$749, which has made the decision a lot harder.
I know the Fenix 8 is probably complete overkill for someone who is just getting into running, but I also like the idea of buying something I can grow into and keep for several years rather than wanting to upgrade a year or two from now. I’d use it as my everyday watch, would like to get into hiking/outdoor activities, and one of my longer-term goals is to eventually train for and complete a duathlon.
So for people who have owned either/both:
- At $749, does the Fenix 8 make sense over the Forerunner 570?
- Are there features on the Fenix that you actually use regularly and would miss on the 570?
- Is the extra weight/bulk of the Fenix noticeable while running or sleeping with it?
Alternatively, would you wait for the Fenix 9 simply because the Fenix 8 could get discounted even further?
For someone primarily interested in running, coaching, recovery and health data, am I just spending extra money on features I probably won’t use?
I’m not necessarily looking for the cheapest option. I’d rather buy once and keep the watch for a long time, but I also don’t want to spend $749 just because a flagship watch suddenly looks like a “deal.”
Would love to hear from people who went Forerunner → Fenix, chose the 570 over the Fenix, or started with a Fenix as a beginner.
Also happy to take any general Garmin/running tips for someone just starting out!