If you search online or ask a friend about smart fitness watches, there is one brand name that’s bound to come up; Garmin. Why? Because simply they are the best.
Now, today, we will discuss 2 of their top smart watches; Garmin Tactix Charlie and Fenix 5X.
In an ideal scenario, you would be able to buy both the watches, but most of us can’t afford to do that.
So, our Garmin Tactix Charlie vs. Fenix 5x will help you in deciding which one is the best option for you.
So, let’s get the show on the road.
Garmin Tactix Charlie vs. Fenix 5x – Comparison 2020
Last update on 2020-10-28 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
Garmin Tactix Charlie
If you have ever used a smartwatch or even seen one, then you know how useful they can be.
Even then, this one is going to surprise you with all its great features. Let’s get to know them.
Sunlight Readability
If you want to use your smart fitness watch when you are outside doing different activities, then it is very much likely that you will have to look into the screen of the watch under the sunlight.
There are some cases where it might be a little difficult to read the writing on the screen.
However, with the Tactix Charlie, you will face no such problem. You should be able to see things very clearly without having to run to shade or cup your hand above it.
Strong Build
When you plan to use the fitness watch for monitoring or tracking your workout and performance, you would want to invest your money on something that is very strong, so it does not get damaged too easily.
The Tactix Charlie is made of black titanium, so you don’t have to worry too much about breaking it easily.
Workout-Friendly Features
As you plan to use the watch mainly for your workout activities, you would want it to have certain features or options which would enhance your experience with the activity.
This watch has preloaded tactical activities and GPS systems, which would help you keep tabs on where you’re going and how far you went.
The watch will also measure your heart rate. This is very important if you want to know the number of calories you burnt during your workout.
Battery Life
One problem we seem to face very often is our devices run out of charge very fast, so we have to keep charging them.
The Tactix Charlie, however, will not result in a problem. As such, you should be able to use this for 12 days without having to charge it again. But with the GPS on, it will last for about 35 hours.
PROS
CONS
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Garmin Fenix 5X
Now we are going to talk about the Fenix 5X. This is probably the most popular Garmin watch out there, and most people want to invest their money on a watch such as this.
It has many different features that make this a very good option if you are on the lookout for a good smart fitness watch.
Heart Rate Monitor
As an athlete or someone who wants to work out, one of the first things you would want your fitness watch to measure is your heart rate.
You will be able to understand how your heart reacts to the intensity of your activity.
And you would know what you’re doing right and how many calories you are burning.
The Fenix 5X has a monitor that is going to measure the heart rate from your wrist, which will give you the best result.
Progress Report
There are some people who want to see the progress they have made during their workout.
You can easily do that with the Fenix 5X watch. It is able to keep tabs on how you have performed, and then you can even compare the current data with the one you had in the beginning. This would tell you how far you’ve come.
All the information regarding your health and fitness is going to be available systematically. You can access it at any time you want.
Design
If you plan to wear something often, you would want it to look good as well. Garmin was mindful of that while making the Fenix 5X.
It boasts a very modern look, which would work well with just about anything you wear, even if you are going to work.
Smartphone Connectivity
The last feature I’m going to talk about is the watch’s ability to connect with your smartphone.
This will enable you to get and send messages through your watch. Along with that, you will also get notifications from different apps. In addition to all of those, you will be able to make and receive calls.
This is perfect as you won’t have to use your phone while working out; the watch will let you handle social media.
PROS
CONS
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Difference between Garmin Tactix Charlie and Fenix 5x GPS Watch
Both of these products are made by Garmin. Most of the features of these two watches are the same, but they are not the same product.
There are certain differences that set them apart. We are going to put them against one another and list down the differences between these two.
Price
The first difference you are going to notice is the price. There is a little difference in the price of the two watches.
The Fenix 5X is a little cheaper than the Tactix Charlie. However, the difference can be neglected in this case.
Design
Another difference between these two watches is the way they look. I would personally say that the Fenix 5X has a bit of a more professional look than the Tactix Charlie watch. It will be a better fit if you plan to wear it to work or an evening event.
This might be an important factor if you are looking for a watch to wear on a regular basis. The Fenix watch is made of stainless steel, which is what gives it a more minimal look.
Maps
You will have access to GPS navigation on both of the watches, but the maps present are a little different.
In the Tactix Charlie, you will get a full-color TOPO mapping, whereas, in the Fenix 5X, you will get a full-color European recreational mapping. Both are very good, but subtle differences are present.
Many would say that the mapping on the Tactix Charlie is better than Fenix 5X outside the USA.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here we have the most commonly asked queries regarding the products in this article:
Can I draw boundaries when I’m hunting?
With the Garmin Tactix Charlie, you will be able to draw a boundary.
You have to do it on your phone using an app, and the settings would be sent to your watch. This process is pretty straightforward once you have the watch and phone connected.
Will I have access to a timer and stopwatch features with this watch?
Most digital watches give you the option to use timers and stopwatch features.
Both the Garmin watches will give you the option to use timers and stopwatches. So, you can time your runs and laps if you want to.
Should I be able to charge the watch with my phone charger?
The watch comes with a charging cable, so you do not have to use your phone’s cable to do the job.
And if you use an iPhone, then the cable will not be compatible anyway, so you have to keep that in mind.
Is the screen scratch-proof?
No, the screens of neither of the watches are scratch-proof.
So, if you are too harsh with the screen, then chances are you will leave scratches on it.
However, if you put a protective layer on it, then you have nothing to worry about.
Are the watches water-proof?
Both watches have a rating of 10 ATM. This means that they will be able to withstand 10 times the pressure at sea level.
So, water won’t get into the device unless the pressure is higher than the rating.
Conclusion
I would say that these two watches have features that are similar. But there are a few differences as well which may swing the opinion of the consumer one way or the other.
So, in the Garmin Tactix Charlie vs. Fenix 5x battle, your preference is going to determine which one to get.