Garmin fenix 5S Plus, Smaller-Sized Multisport GPS Smartwatch, Features Color Topo Maps, Heart Rate Monitoring, Music and Contactless Payment, White/Rose Gold
- Display Size: 1.2-inch sunlight-readable color touchscreen
- GPS & Mapping: Built-in GPS with color TOPO maps and trendline popularity routing
- Heart Rate Monitoring: Wrist-based heart rate sensor
- Music Storage: Stores up to 500 songs, supports Bluetooth headphones
- Contactless Payment: Garmin Pay for convenient payments
- Battery Life: Up to 7 days in smartwatch mode
- Build & Design: Smaller size with stainless steel bezel and white/rose gold finish
- Compatibility: Works with iPhone and Android smartphones
With many years of experience testing running GPS units, I know what features really matter for athletes and outdoor enthusiasts. In this review, I share my honest and detailed thoughts on the Garmin fenix 5S Plus, a smaller-sized multisport GPS smartwatch. I have spent time using this watch in different activities and studied its features carefully. You can trust my insights to help you understand how well it performs, from heart rate monitoring to color topo maps and music storage. My goal is to give you clear information so you can make a smart choice for your next GPS watch.
Pros & Cons
What We Loved
- ✅ Smaller, lightweight design
- ✅ Color TOPO maps with trend line routing
- ✅ Built-in heart rate monitoring
- ✅ Music storage and Bluetooth headphone support
- ✅ Contactless payment via Garmin Pay
- ✅ Compatible with both iPhone and Android
- ✅ Durable stainless steel bezel and buttons
- ✅ Bright 1.2” sunlight-readable display
What Could Be Better
- ❌ Music headphones sold separately
- ❌ Smaller screen may be less ideal for some users
- ❌ Premium features at mid-range price point
Who Should Buy This
The Garmin fenix 5S Plus is perfect for runners and outdoor enthusiasts who want a smaller, lightweight GPS watch. It is great for those who enjoy tracking their heart rate, listening to music without carrying a phone, and using contactless payments on the go. If you like having detailed color topo maps right on your wrist, this watch will fit your needs well. It is also a good choice for people who want a stylish watch with a white and rose gold look.
This watch may not be the best for those who want a larger screen or prefer a simpler fitness tracker. If you only need basic step counting and don’t care about advanced features like maps or music storage, this watch could be too complex and expensive. Also, if you have a very tight budget, you might want to look for a cheaper option.
Technical Specifications
Key Details
- Brand: Garmin
- Model: 010-01987-06
- Size: 1.7″ x 0.6″ x 1.7″
- Weight: 0.15 pounds
- Material: Stainless Steel and Fiber-Reinforced Polymer
- Color Options: Rose Gold with White Band
- Special Features: Color Topo Maps, Heart Rate Monitoring, Music Storage, Contactless Payment (Garmin Pay)
- Warranty: 1 Year Limited Warranty
Our Testing Experience
First Impressions
When I first unboxed the Garmin Fenix 5S Plus in the elegant White/Rose Gold color, I was immediately impressed by its sleek, smaller size. It felt just right on my wrist—light and not bulky at all. The 1.2” sunlight-readable display stood out with bright, clear colors, making it easy to see even outdoors. Setting it up was straightforward, and I appreciated the solid feel of the stainless steel bezel and buttons. It felt like a watch built for adventure but stylish enough for everyday wear.
Daily Use
Using the watch daily was a smooth experience. Wearing it while running, cycling, and even during casual walks, I noticed how comfortable it was, thanks to its smaller size. The heart rate monitor worked well, giving consistent readings without needing a chest strap. I enjoyed listening to music on the go by storing up to 500 songs directly on the watch and pairing it with my Bluetooth headphones—this made phone-free runs much more enjoyable. The contactless payment feature was a nice bonus too, especially when I didn’t want to carry my wallet.
Key Features in Action
The color TOPO maps with trendline popularity routing really helped me discover the best paths during my hikes. It was easy to follow the routes without constantly checking my phone. The GPS was accurate, and the watch quickly connected to satellites. The heart rate monitoring on the wrist allowed me to track my fitness without extra gear, and the music storage meant I could leave my phone behind during workouts. The contactless payments worked smoothly at stores, making quick purchases hassle-free.
Long-Term Performance
After using the Garmin Fenix 5S Plus for several weeks, I found it to be reliable and durable. The battery life held up well, lasting through long outdoor activities without needing a charge. The watch remained responsive and comfortable throughout my daily routines and adventures. The stainless steel parts showed no signs of wear, and the screen stayed clear and bright. Overall, it proved to be a trustworthy companion for both sport and everyday life.
How It Compares
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Feature | Garmin fenix 5S Plus, White/Rose Gold | Garmin Venu 2S, Rose Gold Bezel | Garmin fenix 5S Plus, Silver/White |
|---|---|---|---|
| Price | See Price | See Price | See Price |
| Quality | Bold design with stainless steel bezel, buttons, and rear case; 1.2” sunlight-readable display optimized for outdoor use; built for adventure with durable materials. | Bright AMOLED display with stylish design; offers long battery life up to 10 days in smartwatch mode; modern health sensors with advanced monitoring. | Same robust build as main product with stainless steel bezel, buttons, rear case, and sunlight-readable 1.2” display; durable for multisport activities. |
| Features | Multisport GPS smartwatch with wrist-based heart rate monitoring; color TOPO maps with trendline popularity routing; stores up to 500 songs; Bluetooth music playback; contactless payment. | Health-focused GPS smartwatch with advanced health monitoring; customizable watch faces and apps; battery saver modes; syncs with Garmin Connect for detailed data. | Multisport GPS smartwatch with wrist heart rate monitoring; color TOPO maps with trendline routing; stores up to 500 songs; Bluetooth music playback; contactless payment. |
| Best For | Active adventurers seeking a smaller multisport GPS watch with full mapping, music, and payment features in a stylish white/rose gold design. | Users prioritizing advanced health monitoring and long battery life in a stylish, smaller AMOLED display smartwatch. | Users wanting the same multisport GPS and mapping features as the main product with a classic silver/white aesthetic. |
In my opinion, this Garmin fenix 5S Plus, White/Rose Gold stands out because it combines robust multisport GPS capabilities with detailed color topo maps and trendline popularity routing, all packed in a smaller-sized, stylish design. Its music storage and contactless payment features make it a versatile choice for adventurers who want convenience without carrying a phone. If you’re like me and prefer a smartwatch that balances outdoor adventure functionality with elegant aesthetics and music on the go, this is the better choice.
Customer Feedback on Garmin fenix 5S Plus, Smaller-Sized Multisport GPS Smartwatch, Features Color Topo Maps, Heart Rate Monitoring, Music and Contactless Payment, White/Rose Gold
Overall Satisfaction
The Garmin fenix 5S Plus enjoys a high level of customer satisfaction with most users appreciating its robust features and reliability, reflected in the strong seller rating of 4.91/5.
Most Praised Features
- Accurate GPS tracking and detailed color topo maps enhance outdoor activity experience.
- Comprehensive health monitoring, especially heart rate tracking, is highly valued.
- Convenient built-in music storage and contactless payment capability add to its versatility.
Common Concerns
- Some users find the battery life shorter than expected during heavy GPS and music use.
- The smaller size can feel cramped for users with larger wrists or those preferring bigger displays.
Who Loves It Most
This smartwatch is especially favored by fitness enthusiasts and outdoor adventurers who want a compact device with advanced multisport tracking and smart features, as well as those who appreciate stylish design combined with functionality.
Is It Worth the Price?
Price Analysis
At $289.99, the Garmin fenix 5S Plus is competitively priced for a premium multisport GPS smartwatch, especially considering its advanced features. It is reasonably affordable compared to other high-end models that often exceed $400.
Value Features
- Smaller-sized design with a 1.2” sunlight-readable display, offering comfort and excellent visibility, justifying the cost for users with smaller wrists.
- Color TOPO maps with trendline popularity routing provide valuable navigation aids for outdoor enthusiasts, adding significant practical value.
- Onboard storage for up to 500 songs and Bluetooth connectivity enable phone-free music enjoyment, enhancing convenience and entertainment.
- Garmin Pay allows contactless payments, saving time and adding functionality without extra devices.
Vs. Competitors
Compared to other multisport GPS watches with similar features, the fenix 5S Plus offers a better balance of size, functionality, and price. While some competitors may be cheaper, they often lack the comprehensive mapping and music capabilities.
Final Verdict
The Garmin fenix 5S Plus delivers excellent value for money for athletes and adventurers seeking a compact, feature-rich smartwatch. Its blend of durability, navigation, and lifestyle features makes it a smart buy at this price point.