Ive had a few instinct 1's (tactical and tactical solar), a few instinct 2's (regular solar and tactical solar) and currently have 2x's in solar and tactical solar.
Ultimately if youre looking to save some coin, no I dont think the solar is worth it if you can get a good deal on a non solar version of the 1 or 2. I just didnt notice much difference in the 1 and 2. The 2x is a different animal since it has more solar charging area and better battery life to begin with.
That said 2X is the bees knees. Id pay the added cost for one of those. The screen is bigger and clearer, but not too big. The 2x is about the same size on writst at the regular size fenix watches. Deciding between the regular and tactical is the only question really. Having both, Id go with the tactical, but its close. I use the flashlight on the 2X FAR more than I expected, probably daily. The regular 2x has a red light, tactical green. Both of the regular white is plenty bright enough to be an actual flashlight, not a gimmick. I prefer the green for use getting to my stand, but thats personal preference. Tracking is more accurate since it can use multi frequency positioning - I tracked back to my truck doing day hunts out west without any issues. The tactical has a stealth mode that I use alot in the stand to prevent notifications or buzzing.
They dont make a 2X non solar, but when I fully charge them I get about 31 days on the regular 2x, and 34 on the 2x tactical, and from there solar exposure varies the battery life. They both are at 40% backlight. I must have some setting slightly different between the 2, but I havent changed much from the factory settings. I could get longer life with some things turned off and lower backlight as well.
Ive had a few Fenix, 3HR and 6, and didnt like the weight and feel compared to the Instinct. Also has features in the fenix that is just overkill for me.