Garmin Instinct 2S
Score: 87/100
Suunto 9 Peak Pro
Score: 87/100Rankings
The Garmin Instinct 2S Solar is a rugged, compact 40 mm GPS smartwatch offering exceptional solar-extended battery life and a sunlight-visible monochrome MIP display. Its monochrome screen and basic navigation features limit its appeal for users seeking a colorful, full-featured interface. Ideal for small-wristed outdoor enthusiasts who prioritize durability and endurance.
The Suunto 9 Peak Pro is a thin, premium multisport GPS watch with exceptional battery life and robust build quality. Its small display and occasional heart-rate lag are notable trade-offs. Ideal for athletes who prioritize endurance and durability over a large screen.
| Attribute | | |
|---|---|---|
504 hours | 720 hoursbest | |
| ↓ lower better | 42 gbest | 64 g |
0.79 inches | 1.2 inchesbest | |
| ↓ lower better | — | 1 hoursbest |
156 pixelsbest | — | |
1 years | 2 yearsbest | |
— | 97 modesbest |
Click an attribute name to sort · Green = best, red = worst (relative to this comparison)
| Attribute | | |
|---|---|---|
Battery & Power(2) | ||
Battery Life (hours) | 504 hours | 720 hours |
Warranty (years) | 1 years | 2 years |
Display(2) | ||
Display Size (inches) | 0.79 inches | 1.2 inches |
Display Type | Monochrome MIP | Matrix |
Build & Design(3) | ||
Weight (g) | 42 g | 64 g |
Water Resistance (IP Rating) | 10 ATM | 100m |
Case Material | Fiber-reinforced polymer | Stainless steel, titanium |
Products in the top-left offer the best value (high score, low price).
Professional reviewers commend the Instinct 2S Solar for its durable build, impressive solar-extended battery life, and upgraded display resolution, while noting the trade-off of a monochrome screen and basic mapping features. DC Rainmaker highlights the hardware upgrades and improved port placement, and BASE Magazine emphasizes its value, compact size, and extensive sport profiles, though both point out a steeper learning curve and limited advanced navigation.
Everyday users appreciate the watch's lightweight feel, long battery endurance, and reliable GPS performance in outdoor conditions. Common praise centers on the rugged design, comfortable silicone strap, and breadth of activity tracking, while recurring critiques focus on the lack of a color display and the need to spend time learning the interface.
Professional reviewers consistently praise the Suunto 9 Peak Pro for its industry-leading battery endurance, slim and rugged construction, and highly accurate GPS, while noting the optical heart-rate sensor struggles during high-motion activities and the bezel reduces effective screen real estate.
Everyday users love the lightweight premium feel, the long real-world battery life and the reliable GPS performance, but complain about heart-rate sensor lag and the small effective display.
“very good GPS/elevation matching pro devices but flags HR delays in lifting.”
“accurate heart rate matching chest straps, 90+ profiles, and training insights via app.”
