Which Garmin bike computer is right for me?
24.08.2023
Reading time: 6 minutes
The Garmin Edge range of GPS bike computers is as diverse as the cyclists who use them. So which device is right for you?
People ride bikes for all kinds of reasons. Whether you're a road or gravel rider or a mountain biker, a triathlete or a casual commuter, or even someone ready to dust off that old bike in the garage, there's a Garmin GPS bike computer designed specifically for your needs.
In fact, we have so many options that choosing can be tough. And while we truly don't believe you can go wrong with any of our bike computers, we also want to make sure you pick the one that's right for you. Below we've outlined all of Garmin's GPS bike computer options, from our essential models to the most advanced.
For those who just want to enjoy the ride
Edge 130 Plus bike computer: The Edge 130 Plus bike computer, which provides turn prompts and tracks your movement (and where you've been), uses three satellite systems – GPS, GLONASS and Galileo – to make sure you know exactly where you are in different environments. In the entry-level price range, it's the ideal bike computer to help you explore the unknown with peace of mind. Even better? It features rider awareness and incident detection1, so if you're not the most confident rider, your loved ones can find you when needed.
Edge Explore 2 bike computer: The Garmin Edge Explore 2 is a reliable, easy-to-use touchscreen GPS bike computer that's ideal for anyone who enjoys riding. Edge Explore 2 includes turn-by-turn directions, ride-type-specific maps, off-course alerts and the ClimbPro feature, which shows the remaining ascent and descent of your ride. Edge Explore 2 helps you find more than just routes. It's also great for staying connected – with smart notifications, group messaging, spectator messaging and live event sharing, the ways to keep in touch with other riders and fans at home are endless. And if you need to make a pit stop? Don't worry – the PIN-protected bike alarm alerts your paired smartphone if someone tries to ride off with your bike.
For those who want more performance tracking
Edge 540 and Edge 840 bike computers: If analysing and improving your performance means more to you than just getting from point A to point B, both the Edge 540 and Edge 840 (and their Solar models) are excellent choices that are still available at a lower to mid-range price. With dynamic performance monitoring, targeted adaptive coaching, heat and altitude acclimation, advanced training features and much more, the 540 and 840 pack a serious performance punch. Both track specific mountain biking metrics such as jump count, jump distance and hang time, as well as Garmin-exclusive features like Grit™, which rates ride difficulty using GPS, elevation and other data, and Flow™, which measures how smoothly you descend a trail so you have a score to beat on your next ride. The Edge 540 and Edge 840 bike computers are even smart enough to guide you back to your route or starting point if you decide to take a little detour for adventure. The difference between the two? The Edge 540 is a button-only device, while the Edge 840 has both buttons and a touchscreen for those who prefer a bit of both.
Need longer ride time without extra charging? Discover the Edge 540 solar or Edge 840 solar, as both feature solar charging to keep you riding.
For riders looking for a premium GPS bike computer
Edge 1040 bike computer: The Edge 1040 will certainly take you to the peak of performance. When paired with compatible sensors such as Rally series power meters or HRM-Pro Plus, the Edge 1040 bike computer offers a whole range of features to take it to the next level. With the stamina insight, you can see exactly how much energy you have left, and the suggested targets from the power guidance feature help you manage your effort throughout the ride. Cycling ability and course demands features help you classify your strengths as a cyclist (share them with your friends if you're feeling especially competitive), focus on improvement and prepare for the demands of the course you're about to tackle.
Edge 1040 Solar bike computer: Just when you think it can't get any better, Garmin adds solar power to the device. Using Power Glass™solar charging2, the Edge 1040 Solar offers everything the Edge 1040 does — with 45 hours of battery life in demanding use and up to 100 hours in battery saver mode.
Ready to hit the trail – or the gravel – or maybe just the paved streets of your neighbourhood? Whatever your ride, Garmin has you covered. Find Edge GPS bike computers here
1When paired with your compatible smartphone; see Garmin.com/ble. For safety and tracking feature requirements and limitations, see Garmin.com/safety.
2Assumes continuous 75,000 lux conditions during daytime rides
