Garmin launches Enduro 4 and Approach S72 smartwatches with extended battery life and golf focus

Garmin has unveiled two new smartwatches: the Enduro 4, designed for endurance athletes with up to 90 days of battery life, and the Approach S72, a golf-focused device with advanced biometric tracking. Both models are priced at a premium, reflecting their specialized features and target audiences.

Garmin launches Enduro 4 and Approach S72

Garmin has introduced two new smartwatches: the Enduro 4 and the Approach S72. The Enduro 4 is positioned as a high-performance device for endurance athletes, while the Approach S72 is designed specifically for golfers.

According to TechRadar, the Enduro 4 offers up to 90 days of battery life in smartwatch mode and up to 320 hours in activity mode, thanks to solar charging and new software power modes. The device features a memory-in-pixel (MIP) display, which is less vibrant than OLED but helps extend battery life. It also includes 64GB of onboard storage, 50% more RAM than previous models, and supports advanced fitness tracking features like stamina zones and Garmin Epic.

The Approach S72, as reported by TechRadar, is a golf-focused smartwatch with features tailored for the sport. It includes Swing metrics, which provide insights into hand speed, backswing length, and wrist rotation. The watch also introduces a Driving Range activity profile, which logs range sessions as workouts and analyzes tendencies. Additional features include a flashlight, speaker, microphone, and a shift from a rubber to a ComfortFit strap.

Both devices are priced at a premium. The Enduro 4 is available for $899.99 / £799.99 / €899.99, while the Approach S72 is priced at $799.99 / £699.99 for the 47mm variant.

Fenix 8 available at a discount

For buyers seeking a more affordable option, the older Fenix 8 model is available at a discounted price on Amazon. According to TechRadar, the 47mm variant in Black is priced at $729.99 in the US, down from $999.99, and £595.96 in the UK, down from £699.99. This represents a savings of 27% in the US and £105 in the UK.

Trade-offs and limitations

While the Enduro 4 offers impressive battery life, it lacks some features found in Garmin’s Fenix 9 Pro, such as a 3,000-nit AMOLED display, a titanium case, and double the internal storage. According to TechRadar, the Enduro 4 is $200 cheaper than the Fenix 9 Pro, which offers up to 10 days of battery life.

The Approach S72, despite its advanced golf features, still requires a Connect+ subscription to unlock some of its most useful functionalities. This continues a trend where Garmin locks premium features behind a paywall, which may deter some users.

What this means

Lazyfounder analysis — our interpretation, not reported fact.

Garmin’s latest launches reflect a clear strategy: doubling down on niche markets where it already leads. The Enduro 4 is squarely aimed at ultra-endurance athletes and outdoor adventurers who prioritize battery life and durability over flashy displays. Its $900 price tag positions it as a direct competitor to high-end offerings from Apple and Coros, but with a focus on practicality rather than aesthetics.

The Approach S72, meanwhile, reinforces Garmin’s dominance in golf technology. By adding biometric tracking and swing analytics, Garmin is catering to golfers who want more than just course mapping—they want data-driven insights to improve their game. However, the reliance on a Connect+ subscription for some features could frustrate users who expect premium functionality to be included at this price point.

For founders and operators, Garmin’s approach is a lesson in specialization. Instead of trying to out-feature Apple or Samsung in the broad smartwatch market, Garmin focuses on segments where it can deliver unique value. The trade-offs—like sacrificing OLED displays for battery life—show how hardware decisions can align with specific user needs. The discount on the Fenix 8 also highlights an opportunity for cost-conscious buyers, but it may signal that Garmin is clearing inventory for newer models.

Key takeaways

• The Enduro 4 is designed for endurance athletes, offering up to 90 days of battery life and advanced fitness tracking features.
• The Approach S72 targets golfers with Swing metrics, Driving Range activity tracking, and biometric data.
• Both new models are priced premium, reflecting their specialized features and target audiences.
• The Fenix 8 is available at a discount, making it a potential alternative for buyers seeking high-end features at a lower price.
• Garmin’s strategy focuses on niche markets, prioritizing functionality and battery life over general-purpose appeal.

FAQ

What is the battery life of the Garmin Enduro 4?

The Enduro 4 offers up to 90 days of battery life in smartwatch mode and up to 320 hours in activity mode, depending on usage and conditions like solar charging.

What are the key features of the Approach S72?

The Approach S72 includes golf-specific features such as Swing metrics, a Driving Range activity profile, biometric data tracking, a flashlight, speaker, and microphone. It also shifts to a ComfortFit strap for added comfort.

How does the Enduro 4 compare to the Fenix 9 Pro?

The Enduro 4 is $200 cheaper than the Fenix 9 Pro but lacks features like a high-brightness AMOLED display, a titanium case, and double the internal storage. However, it offers significantly longer battery life.

Is the Fenix 8 still a good option?

Yes, the Fenix 8 is available at a discounted price on Amazon, making it a more affordable alternative for buyers who prioritize high-end features without the premium cost of the latest models.

Why is the Approach S72 priced so high?

The Approach S72 is priced at a premium due to its specialized golf features, including biometric tracking, Swing metrics, and a Driving Range activity profile, which cater to serious golfers.

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