Introduction: Why I Swapped and What I Looked For
After years with the Garmin Fenix 8 Pro, I decided to try the Suunto Vertical 2 to see if a different approach to data, navigation, and battery life could better fit my training and outdoor adventures. The Fenix 8 Pro is a feature powerhouse, renowned for satellite connectivity and deep training analytics. The Vertical 2, on the other hand, promises a lighter feel, different sensor suite, and a distinct user experience. Here are five things I liked and five I disliked after this switch.
Five Things I Liked
1) Lighter, more comfortable daily wear
The Vertical 2 sits a bit smaller and lighter on the wrist, which translates to less fatigue during multi-hour sessions and easier all-day wear. If you’re prioritizing comfort for long hikes or running days, this makes a noticeable difference without sacrificing core features.
2) Simpler, more intuitive user interface
While the Fenix 8 Pro offers extensive menus and customization, the Vertical 2 emphasizes a clean, straightforward navigation system. For workouts that require quick access to vital stats, the reduced learning curve is a welcome change.
3) Strong GPS performance with solid battery efficiency
GPS accuracy holds up well for trail runs, cycling, and navigation. Battery life feels balanced for longer outings, with the device often needing fewer mid-session recharges than I expected from a rugged wearable.
4) Clear screen readability in sunlight
The display is crisp and readable in bright outdoor conditions, which is essential for route reading and real-time metrics when you’re on the move.
5) Focus on outdoor adventure metrics
Suunto leans into the gear I use most: altimeter readouts, barometer, and expedition-style features. If you’re into alpine routes or endurance expeditions, these elements align well with real-world needs.
Five Things I Disliked
1) Workout analytics not as deep as Garmin
The Garmin ecosystem shines with training load, VO2 max trends, and recovery insights. The Vertical 2 tracks essentials, but the depth of planned workouts and analytics isn’t on par with what I relied on for structured training.
2) Limited third-party app integration
Garmin’s Connect ecosystem features broad app support and data import/export options. Suunto’s ecosystem is solid, but it doesn’t offer the same breadth of third-party integrations, which can be a drawback for data nerds.
3) Navigation features feel less polished
GPS routing and breadcrumb-style navigation work well, but the touchpoints for setting up routes and waypoints aren’t as polished as Garmin’s maps and on-screen prompts. For complex routes, you may spend more time fiddling in menus.
4) Hardware ecosystem and accessory variety
Garmin has a vast range of compatible accessories and watch faces. Suunto’s options are good, but the breadth and customization options aren’t as expansive, which can matter if you want a tailored look or sensor add-ons.
5) Watch responsiveness under cold conditions
In chilly environments, the device can feel a touch slower to respond compared to some Garmin models. It’s functional, but the latency under extreme cold is something to factor in for winter activities.
Verdict: Which is better for you?
The choice between the Garmin Fenix 8 Pro and the Suunto Vertical 2 comes down to what you value most. If you crave deep analytics, expansive satellite connectivity, and a mature ecosystem, Garmin remains hard to beat. If you prefer a lighter, simpler daily wear with strong GPS and outdoor-centric features, the Vertical 2 is a compelling alternative. For athletes who want a balanced approach, consider your training discipline, the importance of data depth, and how much you value ecosystem integrations when deciding which watch fits your routine.
