The new Fenix 6 is an improved version of the excellent Fenix 5 Plus. Here is a detailed comparison between the 2 watches and our opinion at the end of the article.
Fenix 6: the replacement for the high-end Fenix 5 Plus watch
Garmin Fenix 6: the new Fenix with a better screen and autonomy, more features and a solar version
The Garmin Fenix 6 is a high-end and elegant multisport and triathlon watch intended to be worn every day in addition to sport. Improved version of the Fenix 5 Plus, it is available in different versions (including a solar one) and several case sizes to adapt to all wrists. It offers complete sports functions (advanced performance analysis tools, assistance to athletes, physiological measurements, etc.) and excellent health monitoring (stress, blood oxygen, breathing, hydration, recovery and more). The mp3 player and the mapping are optional to offer a cheaper model to people who don’t need it.
Buy the Garmin Fenix 6
Garmin Fenix 5 Plus: ultra-complete with mapping and mp3 player, it remains interesting for its price
The Fenix 5 Plus is a significantly improved version of the old model Fenix 5. It is ultra-complete and has an mp3 player and maps it on all models (5S, 5, 5X). A pulse oximeter is also fitted to the 5X model. It offers a multitude of tools and measures for athletes and explorers. It can generate routes for runners and cyclists with voice guidance, manage climbs or even (5X model) assess the level of muscular oxygen to avoid accidents at high altitude. Since the release of the Fenix 6, it offers excellent value for money especially for people who want mapping and the mp3 player at an affordable cost.
Fenix 6 VS Fenix 5 Plus: the differences at a glance
The Fenix 6 inherits all the functions of the Fenix 5 Plus (except the functions which are now offered as an option: mp3 player, mapping and Wi-Fi) and benefits from some new functions (few in fact). It also inherits the latest features offered on the very latest Garmin watches (Vivoactive 4 and Venu) and which will not benefit from the Fenix 5 Plus.
But the real news is mainly in terms of technical characteristics: screen size and definition, autonomy, thickness and weight of the watch, strap materials, new options and above all, a new version with solar charging. The Fenix 6 also has new sensors (GPS chip, optical heart rate monitoring).
Here are the main differences between the Fenix 6 and the Fenix 5 Plus. We detail them later in this article with commented comparative tables.
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- A more robust design (military standard), thinner and more chic with more bracelet colors and woven nylon bracelets like on the MARQ series (in addition to leather, stainless steel, titanium and silicone bracelets)
- 3 versions (standard, Pro, Pro Solar): the mp3 player, mapping and Wi-Fi are now optional, on the Fenix Pro and Fenix Pro Solar version. The glass is replaced by Corning Gorilla 3 and sapphire is optional on the Pro model (but not Solar). A new Solar version makes it possible to partially recharge the battery with solar energy.
- A larger screen and better definition: the intermediate and wide models (6 and 6X) benefit from a larger and better definition screen (1.3 “and 1.4” in diameter and 260 x 260 px and 280 x 280 px definition respectively instead of 1 , 2 “and 240 x 240 px for the Fenix 5 Plus)
- Significantly improved autonomy: (almost doubled compared to the Fenix 5 Plus in GPS training mode) and a intelligent battery management allowing to deactivate certain functions and to change the mode during activity. The display of the remaining autonomy time (instead of%).
- New sensors: new optical wrist heart rate monitoring (3rd generation) that works underwater and new, more economical Sony GPS chip (components already present on the Forerunner 945, the Forerunner 245 and the MARQ luxury series)
- Pulse OX generalized to all models for the evaluation of acclimatization at altitude, the adjustment of VO2max and a more complete sleep monitoring (already present on the Fenix 5X and the Forerunner 245 and 945)
- Charging the battery with solar energy on the Fenix 6X Pro Solar
- Memory : it goes from 16 to 32 GB for models with mp3 player (2000 songs available instead of 1000).
- The ski pistes more than 2000 stations worldwide included in the color mapping (these layers will be integrated into the Forerunner 945 and the MARQ series)
- PacePro: a new function to help runners better manage their pace according to the altitude profile
- Golf: new functions (in addition to the already comprehensive functions and 41,000 on-board routes)
- Voice guidance (with bluetooth headphones) along a programmed route
- More data fields per screen (6 to 8 depending on the model)
- The integration of the latest Garmin watches: Body Battery, stress assessment, assessment of acclimatization to heat and altitude, training load objective, main benefit, monitoring of hydration and water loss, measurement of respiration rate, exercises more complete relaxation (including heart coherence), more than 40 animated exercises (mini videos) for cardio, bodybuilding, yoga and Pilates.
Garmin Fenix 6 VS Fenix 5 Plus: the differences reviewed in detail
Fenix 6: solar versions with mapping and mp3 player.
Garmin has understood that the mp3 player and the mapping are not of interest to all athletes, and there are many. These functions, which had been automatically integrated into the 3 Fenix 5 Plus models, are now optional in order to offer a cheaper watch to people who do not use them.
Garmin thus offers 3 versions of its Fenix 6:
- Fenix 6S and 6: without mapping, without mp3 player, without Wi-Fi and with scratch-resistant Corning Gorilla Glass 3 glass (compared to ordinary glass on the Fenix 5 Plus). All for a starting price of € 599, or € 100 less than the Fenix 5 Plus. No large version (6X) for this base model.
- Fenix 6S Pro, 6 Pro and 6X Pro: with maps, mp3 player, Wi-Fi for € 100 more (or € 150 for the 6X Pro version) and a glass to choose between Corning Gorilla and sapphire (another € 100 more). Sapphire is one of the most resistant materials that exist.
- Fenix 6X Pro Solar: with mapping, mp3 player and Wi-Fi (like the Pro version) but with additional solar charging. Glass (Power Glass ™) consists of Corning Gorilla 3 and integrated photovoltaic cells. The watch costs € 949 with a silicone strap and € 1,100 for a titanium bracelet (it is the most expensive model in the range).
Design, size and weight: a more robust and thinner model
The Fenix 6 always offers 3 case sizes (6S, 6 and 6X) for a watch that adapts to all wrist sizes, including small wrists. The case is refined (1.1 to 2.6 mm less!), The watch is lighter by a few grams and it is more robust (compliance with military standard STG-MIL-810). The glass which, from its base was ordinary glass, is now made of Corning Gorilla 3, an ultra-resistant glass used in smartphones. The sapphire crystal is optional but only on the Pro version but not the Solar model.
Garmin offers new woven nylon bracelets (like the luxury MARQ Captain series) in addition to leather, titanium and stainless steel. New bracelet colors are emerging. Everything is done so that the Fenix can be worn every day, 24 hours a day, that is the interest of a watch as rich in health monitoring functions.
The screen
The particularity of the Fenix 5 Plus was its screen, identical in size and definition on the 3 models (5S, 5 and 5X) despite a different case size. The Fenix 6 now offers 3 screens of different size and definition.
Sensors: the oximeter on all models and improved sensors
The pulse oximeter (SpO2) used to assess the blood oxygen level was only available on the Fenix 5X Plus, the largest model. It is now included on all Fenix 6 models. In addition to its initial function (preventing the risk of accidents at high altitude), it is now used in sleep analysis and in the assessment of acclimatization to altitude.
The old Mediatek GPS chip is replaced by a Sony chip, which consumes less energy, which allows a substantial gain in autonomy.
Finally, the optical heart rate monitoring (including the oximeter) is improved. It now works underwater. It is already fitted to the Forerunner 945, the Forerunner 245 and the MARQ series.
Autonomy: record on the Fenix 6!
The Fenix 6 is a good step forward in terms of autonomy, catching up with the Suunto 9 and its 120 hours of autonomy without altering the accuracy of the readings too much, provided you opt for the larger model (the 6X). The 6X Pro Solar version goes even further by extending the battery life thanks to photovoltaic cells integrated into the watch glass. We can thus gain 6 to 50% of autonomy depending on the mode (watch, GPS, with or without music, etc.), provided that the watch is exposed to direct sunlight (50,000 lux). A graph on the watch can verify this. Please note, this solar version, a first at Garmin, does not allow a full recharge of the watch.
Like the Suunto 5 and 9 watches, Garmin adds an intelligent battery management, the Power Manager, with display of the remaining time (instead of the percentage), an indication of the consumption of each sensor and the possibility of deactivating them. individually. You can also program personalized battery management modes (recording frequency, activated sensors, etc.) according to the sport practiced.
Garmin has also added two new battery modes to the Fenix 6: Shipping mode (use of minimum sensors and GPS recording every hour or less) and Battery saving mode (even more restrictive).
** For use in direct sunlight (50,000 lux)
The features: little new on the Fenix 6
In terms of functionality, the transition from Fenix 5 Plus to Fenix 6 is much less impressive than the transition from Fenix 5 to Fenix 5 Plus. Fenix 6 does, however, offer some interesting novelties around physiological measurements and health monitoring.
Tracking stress (estimation of day’s demands and stress level) and estimation of recovery (body battery) allow you to better understand your expenses and to know if it is wise or not to go running, for example. . The menstrual cycle monitoring, recently integrated into Garmin Connect, is done directly on the watch and allows you to obtain advice according to the stage of the cycle. The hydration monitoring consists in indicating to the watch the quantities of water ingested during the day and having an idea of the losses in perspiration of the day. The Fenix 6 also measures the breathing frequency it uses during relaxation exercises in particular and to better assess the quality of sleep. These functions allow everyone to get to know each other better and to adapt their lifestyle and sports habits.
On the training side, a new tool to help runners, PacePro, allows you to better manage your hill climbs. The Fenix 6 also includes animated exercises (such as short videos) of cardio, weight training, yoga and Pilates (a function offered on the Vivoactive 4 and the Venu but added to the Fenix 6 and, soon, to the Forerunner 945). It allows you to learn to execute the movements well.
Fenix 6 finally offers several relaxation exercises, including cardiac coherence.
You can find more information in our detailed review of Fenix 6.
The price
The standard Fenix 6 (without mp3 player, without mapping and without Wi-Fi) starts at a price of €$599, which is $100 less than the Fenix 5 Plus (with mp3 player, mapping and Wi-Fi). Athletes who do not need these functions will therefore pay less for a more complete watch. The only constraint is that the standard model is not offered in a 6X version. For people with large wrists or those looking for the best screen or the greatest autonomy, it will be necessary to opt for the 6X Pro model which, by the way, costs $50 more than the Fenix 6S Pro and 6 Pro …
To benefit from a glass of sapphire, you will have to pay an additional $ 100. The Solar model, on the other hand, is the most expensive. It is offered from $949 with a Power Glass in Corning Gorilla (no sapphire version available) and $1,150 with a titanium bracelet.
Our opinion: Fenix 6 or Fenix 5 Plus? Which one to choose ?
Fenix 6: clearly the best choice for its price and features
It is difficult to recommend the Fenix 5 Plus knowing that, for the same price, we have a Fenix 6 offering better features and new functions (especially around health monitoring)! For $100 less, we even have a Fenix 6 without mapping and without mp3 player and this is exactly what a certain category of sportsmen is looking for. Of course, we can take advantage of the lower price of the Fenix 5 Plus or, for a little cheaper, opt for the equivalent, the Forerunner 945 (see below).
The interest of this new model is not just related to the new features offered (they will probably not make a big difference for most athletes except in special cases of skiing, golf, and more) but especially to the new features of the watch. It is more robust, thinner and lighter and will be better everyday (use 24 hours a day). Its autonomy is much better (almost doubled!). Its screen is more comfortable (except small model which remains the same size and same definition). The optical heart rate sensor works underwater. It offers the best of the functions offered by Garmin. The next software updates will include the latest features offered by Garmin (they will not be available on the Fenix 5 Plus).
If you don’t need the maps or the mp3 player and you have enough battery life (25 to 36 hours in GPS mode), opt for the standard Fenix 6 which costs € 100 less than the Fenix 5 Plus . Please note, it is not offered in large format (6X). You will therefore not benefit from the best screen or the best autonomy (60 hours in GPS mode).
Otherwise, and if your budget is not limited, opt without hesitation for the Fenix 6 Pro & Sapphire (with cards, mp3 player, Wi-Fi and sapphire glass) or, if you are really looking for the best autonomy, the Fenix 6X Pro Solar (with solar charging). The sapphire glass (+$100 ) is recommended for sports where there is a risk of knocking or scratching the watch. It is not a luxury for a watch of this price.
The standard Fenix 6 (without carto or mp3 player) more complete and cheaper!
If your budget is limited and you need neither the map nor the mp3 player, the standard Fenix 6 is the best choice: for 100 € less than the Fenix 5 Plus, you will benefit from a more complete watch and the oximeter (only available on the Fenix 5X Plus). If the price is still too expensive, read below.
The best models in the series: Fenix 6 / 6X Pro and Fenix 6X Pro Solar
The Fenix 6 Pro (with mapping) and, ideally, the 6 or 6X model (beware, they are a little big for a thin wrist), is the best choice in the following cases:
- For skiing: its cards embark on the ski slopes of more than 2000 stations in the world
- For activities requiring a very long autonomy (ultratrail for example): the Fenix 6 becomes the benchmark, provided you choose the large model: Fenix 6X Pro or 6X Pro Solar (with solar charging to further extend the battery). The intelligent battery management (Power Manager) is also a huge advantage for optimizing at best by deactivating unnecessary sensors.
- For people looking for a larger screen: Fenix 6, 6 Pro, or, even larger Fenix 6X Pro or 6X Pro Solar
- For voice guidance along a route, a practical aspect for biking, mountain biking or even motorcycling
All the Fenix 6 models are also interesting for people who are looking for the best health monitoring (stress, recovery in particular) or even animated exercises to properly perform gym, cardio, Pilates and yoga workouts. These functions are also available on cheaper and less sport-oriented models, such as the Vivoactive 4.
And the Pro Solar model?
This new model (first at Garmin) extends the autonomy from 6 to 50% depending on the use. For a use in GPS mode, we will gain hardly 6 hours of autonomy in addition, provided that the watch is well exposed to the sun, which is not obvious for ultra-trail type races taking place partly at night. or in cloudy weather. The watch is even a little less robust with a Corning Gorilla glass. In addition, the model only exists in one case size (51 mm), which is a bit bulky on some wrists. It’s up to you to see if the investment ($950 minimum) is worth the effort.
Fenix 5 Plus: better to wait and benefit from the price reductions if not to turn to the Forerunner 945
The Fenix 5 Plus remains interesting for people on a limited budget who want mapping without paying too much (beware, only the 5X model has the pulse oximeter). You just have to wait for a price reduction or promotions because the current price of the Fenix 5 Plus is the same as that of the Fenix 6 with cards and mp3 player! We could otherwise acquire the Forerunner 945: for $599 , the price of the standard Fenix 6, we have the same watch (same software, same sensors) including mapping and mp3 player. It is only the design, the weight and the format that differ (the watch is ultra-light with a sporty look and is only offered in one case size, 47 mm, the equivalent of the Fenix 6 ). Read our comparison: Forerunner 945 versus Fenix 6: the differences, which one to choose.
Note that the Fenix 5 Plus should continue to be offered for sale (Garmin generally keeps 2 models for sale) and its price should logically drop a little following the release of the Fenix 6.
