The story of the Garmin fenix
Generations and strap changes
- 2019fenix 6
Brought solar charging, Garmin's first solar watch, and large round MIP displays on the 6X.
- 2017fenix 5 series
Announced January 4, 2017 in three sizes: 42 mm 5S, 47 mm 5 and 51 mm 5X; earlier fenix were all 51 mm.
Introduced QuickFit bands that swap without tools.
- 2015fenix 3
Introduced the EXO antenna, allowing a metal front housing, plus a color MIP display.
- 2014fenix 2
Added multisport features such as running dynamics, heart rate support and cycling.
- 2012fenix
Garmin's first fenix outdoor watch, with long battery life and a metal rear case.
Firsts and innovations
Garmin describes the fenix 6 series (2019) as its first solar-charging watch.
The fenix 8 Pro (September 2025) was Garmin's first smartwatch with inReach satellite and cellular connectivity. Its MicroLED version used a display Garmin calls first-of-its-kind, rated up to 4,500 nits.