This adventure-ready Garmin watch has dropped by hundreds in time for Black Friday
The Garmin Epix Pro (Gen 2) is an absolute steal thanks to Black Friday discounts
I’m only a recent convert to Garmin smartwatches, but ever since Stuff named the Fenix 8 its Fitness Watch of the Year 2025 I’ve been scouring the web for the most affordable way to get a recent model on my wrist. Thanks to some generous Black Friday discounts, I’ve settled on the Garmin Epix Pro (Gen 2) – which is more than 50% off in both the US and the UK this November.
There’s no shortage of Reddit posts asking how the Epix and Fenix stack up, and the great news for bargain hunters is that the two are very closely matched. Both have stunning AMOLED screens, which get bright enough for good visibility even in strong sunshine, and the newer Fenix’s panel is only slightly bigger.
Spending the extra does get you a microphone and speaker for phone-free commands like setting timers, activating shortcuts and triggering navigation. Extra waterproofing (down to 40m instead of 10m) and some dedicated diving sensors add to the Fenix’s underwater appeal, too. But otherwise both have a comprehensive suite of laser accurate health- and fitness-tracking tools, fantastic battery life (two weeks of use isn’t out of the question) and an impressive amount of smarts when paired to your phone. Multi-band GPS also makes the cut, as does a built-in LED torch.
Visually the two are very close, with the Epix having a slightly thicker outer bezel and different case markings. Both can be had in a variety of sizes and with a bunch of different strap designs, though I’m focusing on the 47mm model here; it’ll be the sweet spot for most wrist sizes.
Do keep in mind the Fenix has a much-improved interface, and it’s going to keep getting software updates for the foreseeable; Garmin has basically finished with the Epix now. But it’ll still work perfectly with the Garmin Connect app, importing activities and contributing to Gamin-specific metrics like Body Battery.
Amazon USA is an even better deal for US shoppers, with the stronger Sapphire screen variant currently $550, down from the original $1000 asking price.
H Samuel is the best place for UK bargain hunters, with the 47mm variant being on sale for £370 – down from a pre-sale price of £740. It originally launched closer to £1000, so this is about as low as prices will get while stock lasts. Outdoor retailer Blacks is also selling the Sapphire version for £399, if your kind of workouts run the risk of damaging the display glass.
Tom Morgan-Freelander
Deputy Editor 
