Garmin Instinct 2S

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Overall

#7 in

Fitness Trackers

according to Reddit Icon Reddit

Sentiment score72% positive
26
4
6

Top Pros

Top Cons

Last updated: Apr 28, 2026

Reddit Reviews

Reddit IconJuice0188
6 months ago

I snaked an edit in on you, sorry about that.  They're good, but they're the main reason why I recommended going smaller and lighter. I had an old generation fenix, the largest model, and it was impossible to sleep in. A few years ago I got a lightweight instinct and I can wear it a lot easier. 

Reddit Icon0nTheRooftops
7 months ago

I recently switched to a Garmin Instinct 2s from a Suunto Ambit 3 peak. Different watches i know, but the Suunto lasted me 6 years and was still working great (just wanted HR, and got the Garmin as a gift). I felt like Suunto interfaced better with my phone, and I have my doubts about the longevity of the Garmin. Garmin seems like the kind of company that will design in some planned obsolescence. Edit to add: the Suunto was my first watch and I bought it used. Its nearly 10 years old, battery continued to last for about 20 hours of activity, and is now being used by a friend.

Reddit Icon14shadynasty
7 months ago

Garmin instinct 2S. I have a small wrist and like the other features. So it’s not really a true golf watch, but does everything I need for a 16 handicap.

Reddit Iconanonymityninja
8 months ago

I came from the Instinct 2s and after several years bought my 2nd Garmin which is now a Forerunner 265S. I love the AMOLED screen, the battery life isn't an issue with 15 days as it charges quickly. can get to 90% in an hour or less. I say go for t he forerunner 265! its great!

Reddit IconAvonSabreJet
6 months ago

You could look at an instinct 2S or a Garmin instinct E, both are 40mm

6 months ago

Honestly your best bet would be a Venu or an instinct, Venu is Garmin's health and fitness while instinct is there more traditional "G-Shock" style (best way I can describe it) watch, they don't really do the fitness tracker it's mostly all smartwatches. I have the Venu 4 coming from an instinct 2 solar. The vivo moves might also fit you well but they are older in comparison. If you are set on not having a smartwatch you may have to look into another brand, hope this helps, if you have any questions about the Venu or instinct let me know!

Reddit Icondeep_direction
5 months ago

update. I was able to take the screen off both the vivoactive 5 and the instinct 2s, and it stays connected to my phone and emits metrics. I just need to 3d print a cover and it will work without issue.

Reddit IconEunochRon
11 months ago

I use the s2 for swim. It’s fine. The heart rate seems low, but I think that’s common for swimming. Often messes up which stroke in using. But I love it for open water when I’m wearing a wetsuit. The tactical start and stop as well as the heat/cold rating are awesome. My friend’s Apple Watch dies in the sun 40 water sometimes. Mine doesn’t even care.

Reddit IconFit-Career4225
8 months ago

I dont know wich brand or watch is it, but my Garmin instrinct2s have the same navigation, and I realise like 4-8m in the wrong way. And there comes the bushwhack or turnback. But this happens rarely. Maybe a shallow Y turn or something.

3 months ago

Instinc2s. I really dont want to upgrade. It knows everything I need.

7 months ago

+1 on Instinct! Simple, knows almost everything that a high end much pricier Garmin does with incredible battery time

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