Garmin Fenix 8 Pro with a revolutionary microLED display is coming to the Czech Republic. Are they a step forward, or a disappointment?

Following yesterday’s leak, today Garmin officially unveiled the long-awaited Fenix 8 Pro watch, which is the very first on the market to offer a revolutionary microLED display. This technology uses over 400,000 individual LED diodes and achieves brightness of up to 4,500 nits, making the new American watch the brightest you can get. Garmin also introduced an AMOLED version with up to 27 days of battery life. A common trump card for both variants is support for LTE connectivity and satellite connection.

microLED has super brightness, but where is the expected battery life?

The new 1.4-inch microLED display represents a true breakthrough. With brightness of up to 4,500 nits, it offers unparalleled readability in direct sunlight and ultra-wide viewing angles. Garmin emphasizes high pixel density and rich colors that you won’t even get with an AMOLED panel.

Paradoxically, however, the microLED version only lasts 10 days in smartwatch mode, while the AMOLED model offers up to 27 days of operation. This is surprising because microLED technology generally has higher energy efficiency than AMOLED. The reason could be the extremely high maximum brightness or the specific implementation of the display in the first model of this technology.

If you’re asking about MIP, Garmin has completely cut it out for the new Fenix 8 Pro. An even more energy-efficient screen with always excellent readability is only offered on the classic Fenix 8 models.

Satellite and LTE Connectivity for Safety

Garmin Fenix 8 Pro are the brand’s first watches with inReach technology, which enables communication via both satellite and LTE networks. Users can make calls, send text and voice messages, or share their location via the LiveTrack feature – all without needing to carry a phone.

The most important safety feature is interactive SOS communication with the Garmin Response center, which operates 24/7. When SOS is activated, the watch sends a message via satellite or LTE connection to the coordination center, which then communicates with both the user and local rescue services.

Unfortunately, LTE coverage is not available in the Czech Republic; only satellite connectivity works. To use these features, an active inReach subscription is required, starting at 9.99 euros (245 CZK converted) per month. Satellite coverage in the Czech Republic works reliably, with the exception of situations where the view of the sky is blocked by buildings or trees.

Premium Features at a Premium Price

The Fenix 8 Pro watches offer complete features including a titanium bezel, sapphire crystal, and 10 ATM water resistance with support for diving up to 40 meters. Also included are an LED flashlight, pre-installed TopoActive maps, support for over 43,000 golf courses, and advanced training features including endurance score and hill running.

The microLED version is available only in the 51 mm size for an astronomical 48,990 CZK. The AMOLED variant comes in two sizes – 47 mm for 29,990 CZK and 51 mm for 32,490 CZK. All models will be available from September 8.

What do you think about the first microLED display in a watch?

Source: Garmin