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Garmin knows what it is doing when it comes to making running watches, and the Fenix 5 Plus is one of the best examples of that.
We've tried out the watch in some of the most extreme circumstances we could, but the fact is this is a device that can handle almost all the adventures you're looking to throw it into.
It's not built for everyone though; and that high price is sure to put some people off. If not, you may want to also consider the Fenix 5X Plus and Fenix 5S Plus as well as the rest of the Garmin watch range.
Who’s this for?
This is a serious multi and adventure sports watch for people who are very serious about performance.
However, unless money is no object or you’re someone who swims, bikes, runs, hikes and is seriously committed to outdoor adventure, we’d be hard pressed to recommend you shelling out for the Fenix 5 Plus. Buying this if you’re just running around your city would be a waste of your money and this watch’s skills.
Should you buy it?
We’re torn on this one. We really like this watch because it’s packed with features, it wears well, the battery life is just about ample enough and Garmin Connect is improving all the time, but it’s really hard to ignore that hefty price tag. Particularly when you can pick up a Suunto 9 for less than the cheapest Fenix 5 Plus model.
Ok, so you’ve then got to grapple with Suunto’s often frustrating usability and an app that’s nowhere near as good as Connect, but you're getting a significant saving.
Is there a compromise? Maybe shooting for the cheapest end of the Fenix range could be a smart option, but before you do, ask yourself some hard questions about how serious you are about your multisport. If you’re really just a runner who swims once a month there might be a better option.
First reviewed: October 2018
