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{{DISPLAYTITLE:Garmin Epix Review}}
[[File:GarminEpix.jpg|thumb|right|200px|The {{Garmin Epix}}, showing a topo map.]]
The Garmin Epix is the [[Best Running Watch| top of Garmin's GPS watch line]]. The Epix has nearly all of the functionality of the [[Garmin 920XT]], plus support for full color maps. Having a good map display is great for both urban and wilderness runners when they're in unfamiliar surroundings. The Epix includes [[Connect IQ]] that allows it run applications, much like a smartphone. Its clear display, real buttons, touchscreen, map display and rich functionality make it one of the best watches if you can afford it and are okay with the poor GPS accuracy and its bulk. One caveat is that Garmin seems to be forgetting about the Epix, with few firmware updates. For a simple evaluation of a GPS watch, I look at how well it can answer some basic questions:
* '''How far did I run?''' This is the most basic question, and sadly, the Epix has rather poor [[GPS Accuracy]], and while firmware updates might improve this slightly, I doubt it will get close to the accuracy of the [[Polar V800]]. It looks like activating GLONAS and WAAS improves accuracy, it's still not great. How big a problem this is for you will depend on the type of course you're running, but if this is important to you, look for a more accurate watch.
* '''How fast am I running?''' Knowing how fast you're running can be a nice to know, or it can be vital for your training or race performance. Because of the nature of GPS, watches that rely on GPS signal alone tend to have serious problems with current pace. Thankfully, the Epix is one of the few devices that will display current [[Pace From A Footpod]] while getting all other data from GPS.
* The Epix is larger than devices like the [[Garmin 620]], and it doesn't look like a traditional watch in the way the [[Garmin Fenix 2]] does. However, I have tiny wrists (less than 6 inches) and I found Epix is quite comfortable, with a strap that works better than most I've tested. The Epix fits my wrist far better than the [[Polar V800]] which I have to wear over a sweatband.
* The color display on the Epix has much richer colors than some of Garmin's earlier watches. In other sports watches I don't think that color adds much functionality, but it's vital for the Epix to be able to display maps. The font sizes are mostly easy to read, though occasionally I've struggled. The Epix has exactly the same size and resolution display as the [[Garmin 920XT]].
* Like the [[Garmin 620]], [[Garmin Fenix 3]], and the [[Garmin 920XT]], the Epix supports [[Running Dynamics]] which can show and record [[Cadence]], Vertical Oscillation (VO) and Ground Contact Time (GCT). However, Garmin has not added the latest Running Dynamics metrics.
* The Epix can be configured to alert you when a metric is out of range. The alert for [[Cadence]] is particularly useful. The Cadence alert will work when it's using the internal accelerometer for Cadence, as well as the HRM-Run strap or a Footpod.
* There is a metronome to help you keep your Cadence where it should be, which is a really nice feature. The metronome can be set to make a sound and/or vibrate. The vibration option is nice so you don't annoy people you're running with. You can set the alert to go off every second, fourth, or sixth beat.
