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Which Garmin??

13 Oct 2020
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I will preface this post by saying we have been using Cycle Travel for a few years and it is great!!

Saying that here is my question. We have been using it on our Garmin 800 which we have had since 2012. Starting to think about replacing it before it expires!

Which Garmin is most closely similar?

Thanks!!!

Comments

Wed 21 Oct 2020, 09:20

Hi Kathy. I have had the Edge 530 for just over a year and I am really happy with it. I think it has most of the same features as the 800, but without the touchscreen. It displays routes accurately, loads quickly and gives you access to plenty of ride data. It has a bigger memory then the 800 so does not need the SD card. If a touchscreen is important to you, I am sure there are Edges that have 530 features plus a touchscreen.

I think your best approach might be to make a list of the features you want and then have a look through the various Garmin options. What seems to have happened since your 800 is that they have got faster and have more internal memory. My 530 loads routes very quickly.

Happy shopping.

Wed 21 Oct 2020, 21:48

Garmin have so many different models I lose track, and for every one I’ve bought, I’ve regretted its functionality in some ways. So I think Martin is right that making a list of must-have features is the way to go.

Features you might want to think about:

  • Bluetooth (to my mind, this is essential for transferring routes easily)
  • Touchscreen vs buttons
  • USB charging vs traditional batteries
  • Memory (make sure there’s enough for the basemap you need)

I have a 520 (ok, but its memory is too small) and an Edge Touring (ok, but no Bluetooth). If I had to buy again I’d probably go for a 530 or an Edge Explore.

Thu 22 Oct 2020, 02:15

Thanks for your help!!

Mon 2 Nov 2020, 15:39

I'm thinking of getting a Garmin and for Bike Touring, I had gotten to the conclusion that the Edge Explore is what I need.

The 530 seems better suited for recording performance and following precise training, the Explore more for touring.

Sat 21 Nov 2020, 08:31

Remember, Garmin is not the only option for touring. (Wahoo Roam).

Fri 11 Dec 2020, 09:23

I agree with Graham Bowers alternatives are available, I personally upload my routes to a mobile phone and use Osmand or Maps.Me.

Wed 13 Jan 2021, 09:08

I don't click on random links, however this has the whiff of spam to me.