Which Garmin Bike Computer Is Right for Me?
The lineup of Garmin Edge GPS bike computers is as diverse as the cyclists who use them. So which unit is right for you?
People ride bikes for different reasons.
Whether you’re a roadie, gravel grinder or a mountain biker, a triathlete or casual commuter, or even just someone who’s ready to dust off your old bike in the garage and get some fresh air, there’s a Garmin GPS bike computer built specifically for your needs.
We have so many options, in fact, that it can be tough to choose.
And while we really don’t think you can go wrong with any of our computers, we also want to make sure you select the option that’s just right for you.
Below we’ve outlined each of the Garmin GPS bike computer choices, from our more basic options to the most advanced.
For those who just want to enjoy the ride:
Edge 130 Plus: Complete with turn prompts and a breadcrumb map to track where you’re going (and where you’ve been), Edge 130 Plus utilizes three satellite systems — GPS, GLONASS and Galileo — to ensure you know exactly where you are in a variety of different environments.
At an entry-level price point, it’s the perfect bike computer to help you explore the unknown while maintaining peace of mind.
Even better? It boasts extra awareness and incident detection1, so if you aren’t the most confident rider, your loved ones will be able to find you should the need arise.
For those who want more performance monitoring:
Edge 540 and Edge 840: If performance analysis — and improvement — is more your speed than simply getting from point A to point B, both Edge 540 and Edge 840 (and their solar models) are excellent options that still come in at a lower to midrange price point.
With dynamic performance monitoring, targeted adaptive coaching, heat and altitude acclimation, advanced training features and more, 540 and 840 pack a serious punch when it comes to performance.
They both track specific mountain biking metrics, like jump count, jump distance and hang time, as well as features specific to Garmin like Grit™, which rates the difficulty of a ride using GPS, elevation and other data, and Flow™, which measures how smoothly you descend a trail so you’ll have a score to improve on the next ride.
Edge 540 and Edge 840 are even smart enough to guide you back to the route or to your starting point if you decide to deviate for a little adventure.
The difference between the two? Edge 540 is a button-only device, while Edge 840 has buttons and a touchscreen for those who prefer a little of each.
For performance riders looking for a premium GPS bike computer:
Edge 1040: Edge 1040 is guaranteed to take you to the peak of performance. When paired with compatible sensors like the Rally Series power meters or the HRM-Pro Plus, Edge 1040 provides a whole host of features to take it to the next level.
With stamina insights, you can see exactly how much energy you have left in the tank, and recommended targets in the power guide feature help you manage your efforts throughout a ride.
Cycling ability and course demand features help you to classify your strengths as a cyclist (share them with your friends if you’re feeling extra competitive), focus on improvement and prepare for the demands of a course you plan to tackle soon.
Edge 1040 Solar: Just when you think it can’t get any better, Garmin adds solar power to the mix.
Using Power Glass™solar charging2, Edge 1040 Solar offers everything Edge 1040 does — with 45 hours of battery life in demanding use cases and up to 100 hours using battery saver mode.
Ready to hit the trail — or the gravel — or maybe just the paved streets of your neighborhood? Regardless of your ride, Garmin has you covered. Shop Edge GPS bike computers here.
Read more on if you need a power meter 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
