The Fenix 5X from Garmin is particularly suitable as a training companion for triathletes and other multisport athletes - provided you like complex technology. The GPS smartwatch can do a lot, but is difficult to use. If you want to quickly load a track onto the device, for example, you face a few hurdles (see tip below). To utilise the full range of features, you need the Garmin app, a Garmin Connect account and the Basecamp planning software. Garmin actually recommends planning routes on its Garmin Connect platform. However, this is technically very limited (e.g. in terms of map selection) and planning is tedious. For example, if you want to plan on Outdooractive or download a finished track, you have to go via Basecamp - a diversion that is not explained in the operating instructions. Once you have overcome this hurdle, the device guides you reliably through the landscape.
Navigating with the Garmin smartwatch
The display is sharp and easy to read, GPS reception is good and fast. The map aligns itself quickly, for example after a turn, and reliably guides you through junctions or small paths in the forest. Warnings appear when you leave the track and you can switch between map display and routing. If you stray too far from the track during navigation, the watch discards the track. Once you are back on the right track, you have to restart the navigation. Wrist-based heart rate measurement is very inaccurate. Compared to measurement with a chest strap, there were differences of 50 beats in the maximum heart rate and 30 beats in the average heart rate. If you want to train seriously, you should buy the optional chest strap (129.99 euros). In a test in the Alps, the watch was off by 300 metres in terms of altitude, but the altitude difference measurement was very precise.
Download GPS tracks to the Garmin Fenix smartwatch: This is how it works
GPX tracks can be imported via Basecamp. To do this, connect the watch to the computer, import the track "into my collection" and then drag it onto the watch with the mouse.
PLUS Small all-rounder, perfect for training documentation and navigation even on small paths
MINUS very complicated to use, track import only via diversions, inaccurate heart rate measurement, expensive
- Price 749,99 Euro
- Info www.garmin.com
Matthias Borchers
Editor
