Garmin Fenix 8

Pros

• The Fenix 8 has a solar screen which is less vibrant, but the battery life is way longer Personally I'd pick better battery
• i went super nuts and got fenix 8 about 2 weeks ago and the primary reason was someone hyping it up for hiking features. I have only done 2 hikes since and mostly running and I love it so far
• Fenix 8 will definitely give you what you want with a history of performance.
• Option C: Garmin fenix 8 + InReach device. Having them separately costs the same, makes the watch cheaper and a bit smaller, plus I can lend it to someone who needs it.
• if you go for standard Fenix 8 you will see it's improved solar panel and screen over the 7 Pro.

Cons

• The Fenix 8 is just a fenix 7 at the core.
• For me, I don't want nor need the microphone and speaker that's on the Fenix 8. It just adds extra cost, weight, uses more battery, and takes up space internally that could have gone to having a larger battery.
• The Fenix looks better but it’s much more pricey and doesn’t have that many more features than the Forerunner.
• Why even consider ‘upgrading’ from epix to fenix 8? It’s the same watch for 95%.
• My reasoning was that some people say Fenix 8 is still lacking a bit in the software department with some bugs still present. But as far as all test goes battery life is better on Fenix 8.