I’ve always historically put together a sports gadget recommendations list in late Fall, primarily because that’s when things in the sports technology world tend to settle down. Further, many folks are looking for holiday shopping advice. The problem is that over the past 6 months there’s been a TON of new devices on the market in a lot of categories. And in doing so, some of my recommendations have changed.
Like previous years, I try and divide up the categories to be as specific as possible. Ultimately however, there’s always going to be some overlap in features and functionality between the categories. Additionally, it’s possible you may have a certain edge case that crosses categories – in most cases I address the ‘who is this good for’ aspect towards the end of the review, or in the comments of each review. So those are great places to get additional clarification answers.
Finally, if you use either the Amazon or Clever Training links, you help support the site. I’ve partnered with Clever Training to offer all DC Rainmaker readers exclusive benefits on all products purchased. You can read more about the benefits of this partnership here. You can pickup most devices below through Clever Training using the links in the tables. By doing so, you not only support the site (and all the work I do here) – but you also get to enjoy the significant partnership benefits that are just for DC Rainmaker readers (like saving 10%). And, if you are picking up items that are more than $75, you can get free US shipping as well.
With that, let’s dive into it!
Running GPS Watches:
Road Running – Best in Class: Garmin FR620
It used to be that I used the Garmin FR610 for all my running adventures, but since the FR620 came out last fall, I’ve been using it instead – and it’s working great for me. Garmin listened when it came to waterproofing, connectivity via Bluetooth to your phone, and customization. It’s pretty much my perfect running watch. There’s simply nothing else in the same ballpark anymore from a functionality standpoint by other companies. And, with the FR620 cycling mode functionality released yesterday, it brings the much requested functionality back to the lineup.
Trail/Ultra Running – Best in Class: Suunto Ambit2 if on sale, or Fenix2at normal pricing
This category covers units with barometric altimeters as well as longer battery life. Both of the options I note below contain a ‘long battery life’ mode, which reduces the number of GPS points recorded (through a variety of means).
Last year I ‘awarded’ this category to the Ambit2 over the Fenix(1), because of the versatility the watch had in connecting to cycling sensors as well as being able to do pool and openwater swimming. But I noted at the time that the Fenix had more when it came to hiking and navigation – but lacked in other areas.
Since then though not only has the Fenix2 come out but they greatly expanded the feature set and even went back and added in a ton of Bluetooth related features to the Fenix1. At the same time, Suunto has added in a handful of features while also filling the biggest gap I saw at the time: Inability to get proper data to 3rd party sites (for example, by adding automatic sync with Strava, and .FIT file export).
So to that end this is still a slightly tricky category. But I’d kinda put my recommendation as such: If you can get the Ambit2 at a lower price (like it is for the next 10 days) then that’s still a solid choice. But if it’s at a higher $500+ price, then go with the Fenix2. Said differently: I don’t believe the Ambit2 is worth the high-price they’ve set for it. But I do believe the watch is much more competitive about $100 cheaper, making up for the lack of Bluetooth phone connectivity.
Running – Moderate/Mid-Range: Garmin FR220 or TomTom Cardio
This one is actually super simple. If you’re looking to spend about $200-$260 on a running watch, ask yourself one question: Do you want optical heart rate (so you don’t have to wear a strap). If the answer is yes, then go with the TomTom Cardio Runner. If the answer is no, then go with the Garmin FR220.
The FR220 is just a very solid runner’s watch with lots of customization as well as the ability to do Live Tracking and smartphone integration. Meanwhile, the TomTom unit offers a bit less customization and fewer features – but brings in the big fish of having optical heart rate monitoring, eliminating the need to wear a heart rate strap. For some runners that is a major advantage.
From a site/app standpoint, the FR220 is the main winner here, with the TomTom website still being a bit of a sore point. However both watches allow you to save in common file formats so you can easily upload to pretty much any site you’d like on the internet – so I wouldn’t let that be the deciding factor.
Running – Budget Range: Garmin FR15 or TomTom Runner
In the budget range I love the new Garmin FR15 GPS watch. Just released last month it combines an activity tracker with a GPS watch. So you can go out and run and track your activity via GPS, but then for the other 23 hours of the day you can use the unit’s internal step counter to measure your steps. Then later this summer they’re adding in sleep tracking (albeit, fairly basic).
The TomTom Runner meanwhile gets the mention because it’s a bit cheaper. The price is set to be reduced on July 1st down to $149US (the new regular price). Further, unlike the FR15 its able to sync to your phone directly – which is definitely a plus. You also actually get slightly more customization on the TomTom Runner than the FR15 (but you lose the activity tracking).
Finally, if you’re looking to save even more – check out the lower priced Garmin FR10 watch. It’s $129US these days and while that’s a bit of a premium over the sub-$100 GPS watches, you’ll more than make up for it in features and stability. Put another way, out of the 600+ comments on the FR10 review, I think there’s virtually no complaints about the unit (unheard of, btw). The same can’t be said about the other units (which, while decent, are almost all the exact same physical unit just with different brandings: Soleus, Timex Marathon GPS, New Balance, etc…).
This category is for what the industry calls ‘multisport’ watches, but, that typically just translates to triathlon watches. They track your time/distance/etc… within the three sports – swim/bike/run. From a non-triathlon multisport aspect, these watches are often used by everyone from wind surfers to rollerbladers, mostly because of their versatility and flexibility in configuration and display customization.
With that in mind, I’m going to note that in general, now would be a bad time to buy a triathlon watch at regular price. At least, if you don’t need to buy a triathlon watch for this immediate already in-progress season. All of the units below are getting a bit older, and pretty much everything is due for refresh. So personally, I’d save my cash. Nonetheless, if you’re in a short term pickle – here’s what to go with:
Overall Best in Class: Garmin FR910XT
This is a tricky one. You’ve really got three hot contenders here: The Garmin FR910XT, Garmin Fenix2, and then the Suunto Ambit 2/2S.
For most triathletes, all three will do just about the same thing, and all three will do it well. Except, in my mind there’s one key feature missing on two out of the three: The quick release kit/system. With the Fenix2 and Ambit2 you’ll need to keep it on your wrist the entire time and there’s no quick release system like on the 910XT. If that’s not a concern, then you’ve got more options here.
The Fenix2 has a leg-up over the Ambit2 and the FR910XT though in that it can integrate with your smart phone and do Live Tracking. On the flip side, the screen isn’t quite as easy to read as that of the FR910XT or Ambit2.
For this category I’d highly recommend looking long and hard at the tiny little differences between the watches, here’s a direct link to the comparison chart for all three.
Do note that I expect to see both the FR910XT and the Suunto Ambit replaced by newer versions before the end of the calendar year. And perhaps by then we’ll see that the Polar V800 has matured enough to make the cut into the recommendations as well.
Budget Options: Garmin FR310XT and Magellan Switch/Switch Up
Let me be clear: From a price to functionality ratio, there’s (still) no better deal on the market today than the FR310XT. It hovers around $170-$190US, and has the vast majority of the FR910XT functionality. The core areas that both it and the Magellan Switch lack though are indoor swim tracking, as well as stroke metrics for outdoor swimming. The FR310XT has a variant of openwater swim mode to be used on the wrist, while the Switch does not. If you’re just getting into triathlon and aren’t quite sure what your plans are – I’d really recommend the FR310XT over the higher end watches. The Magellan Switch meanwhile can be occasionally seen for as low as $125, but is usually in the $150ish range.
Best Bang for the Buck: Garmin Edge 500, CycleOps Joule GPS, O-Synce Navi2Coach
As I’ve noted previously, anytime someone in the cycling/sports technology industry starts a conversation about bike computers, it always starts with “it’s like the Edge 500”. Well, there’s reason for that. Given the Edge 500’s current prices at $200, it’s still an awesome deal. If you don’t care about maps and turn by turn navigation, you won’t find a better unit out there. Sure, there’s the Edge 510 with Bluetooth tracking and uploads, but it won’t get you natively to Strava (requires 3rd party sites), and it’s a lot bulkier than the sleek Edge 500.
Meanwhile, CycleOps has the Joule GPS, which…’is sorta like the Edge 500’, except from CycleOps. Importantly though, it does more around historical power metrics (like showing your 5min power max, weekly and monthly maxes, etc…). Many folks like it just as much as the Edge 500.
Finally, the O-Synce Navi2Coach is very solid, and I’d have no problems using it day to day either. We haven’t quite seen as many updates to the unit as we did during the initial release cycle – but most people seem quite happy with it. About my only complaint there is (still) the mount, which can be prone to breakage.
Cycling with navigation: Edge 810 or Mio/Magellan Cyclo 505
If you want turn by turn navigation (like a car GPS), there’s not a ton of choices. You’ve got a few Garmin units (Edge 810, 800, Touring), and then the Mio Cyclo units.
Last fall I recommended the Edge 800 over the Edge 810, as I felt the features didn’t justify the extra price. And in many ways I still feel the same way. However, the ability to upload via Bluetooth is becoming more relevant with Garmin’s new automatic sync partnerships (like Training Peaks last week, MyFitnessPal this week, and who knows who next week). Over time these partnerships will likely cover all the major players in this space. And in doing so makes the unit more appealing. For example, if automatic Strava uploading were enabled – that would increase the value of the unit substantially (over the Edge 800).
Meanwhile, you’ve got the Mio Cyclo 505 (also branded as Magellan). That unit received a substantial firmware update last month that added in a ton of features. For example the ability to control trainers and Shimano Di2 integration. There’s a number of features that Garmin units don’t have (such as the ability to connect to Bluetooth Smart sensors). It’s a really strong contender.
There are some minor nits though with it that may cause more serious cyclists to pause – specifically the lack of a lap function, insufficient power data recording, and the inability to put together workouts. The lap piece is coming down the road in a future firmware, so that should help there. And, I don’t find the interface as polished as the Garmin Edge 810, though that’s a lesser issue. But I do think over time Mio will be able to play catch-up in a lot of areas. No doubt that I see them as Garmin’s biggest competitor.
So why not the Edge Touring? In many cases the Edge 800 isn’t all that much more expensive than the Edge Touring. And the Edge 800 has far more functionality than the Edge Touring does, except in the area of round-trip routing (whereby you tell the unit you want a 50-mile ride and it goes and creates a random route). The Edge 810 lacks that as well. Meanwhile, the Touring lacks 80%-90% of what either the 800 or 810 has. So if you’re looking to save some cash, go Edge 800 instead of Edge Touring.
Budget GPS Option: Garmin Edge 200 or RFLKT+
If you’re looking for a budget option that records your route, your first and best bet is actually your phone with a free app like Strava, MapMyRide, Wahoo Fitness, or similar. If however you want more of a small handlebar unit, then the Edge 200 is where it’s at. While I’ve been playing with some other options, ultimately, at $129 it comes down to the Edge 200 being the cleanest interface and the easiest to upload to Garmin Connect (or any other site you’d like, they all support it).
You also do have the Wahoo RFLKT and RFLKT+. These units require your smartphone be on you at all times, as they display data directly from popular apps, sorta like a dashboard. It’s a bit cheaper than the Edge 200, and gives you a bit more flexibility because the apps allow you to easily pair sensors like heart rate and cadence sensors.
Choosing a power meter is a tough decision matrix. Anyone who answers the question “Which power meter should I choose?” and instantly names a specific brand name/model upfront, is full of crap. The correct answer is “Tell me more about your usage plans?”
There are so many variables that go into that decision beyond just price. For example: How many bikes? What type of bike? What type of pedals? Do you want to move it around a lot? Race wheels or not? What do you want to measure? And on and on.
The good news is that I cover these in-depth in my Power Meter Buyer’s Guide from last fall. Nothing has changed there since then (neither in products nor in my opinions), and I don’t expect any shifts in the near future.
Now, I will note that the best bang for the buck continues to be the PowerTap hubs. Previous to last August, it was really the Stages Power Meter at $699. But with the PowerTap price reductions down to $799, that’s sorta the best of both worlds there (for all the reasons I note in my buyer’s guide). But again, there’s places where the PowerTap wheel isn’t the best option – so you’ll want to understand those in the guide.
Cycling Trainers (Resistance Controlled):
I recognize it’s sorta the wrong season for trainers (at least in the Northern Hemisphere), but I figured I should at least help folks looking for the right option.
And the best way to do that is to read my complete cycling trainers Guide, so again like power meters, I’d go over and and check out that post for all my recommendations (a massive list on a slew of categories).
As far as trainer announcements go, those all happen in late August starting in Eurobike. I’ll have some more reviews of trainers lined up for late August and early September. So it’s kinda like the triathlon watch scene – it’s probably not the best time to buy a trainer right now.
Swimming:
MP3 Players: FINIS Neptune + See MP3 Player post
There’s a lot of options in this category. Some are good options by reputable companies. Some…are crap knockoffs. I’d really encourage you to read my Swimming MP3 Player Shootout post to get all the details on many of the units out there.
The one new unit to the market though that I’ve reviewed since is the FINIS Neptune MP3 player. I did this back this past summer and really liked the unit. And many of you as readers who have picked it up have said the same. Thus, like I concluded in my post, if I were looking at an MP3 player these days, I’d be sticking with the Neptune.
There are a handful of options in this category, but I don’t think there’s any real discussion that the best isn’t the Garmin Swim. While the FINIS Swimsense was a good option at one point, it’s sorta beyond it’s prime. You’ve also got the Poolmate Pro and HR, which, are a bit more clunky than the Garmin Swim. The Poolmate HR does do heart rate, but for the life of me I can’t get that strap to stay put during flip turns on my chest (and no, I’m not going to wear a shirt over it at the pool).
Thus, the Garmin Swim. The unit measures your laps and distance, and can be configured for drill mode as well. Afterwards it uploads the data to Garmin Connect, and a variety of 3rd party sites support it as well. Note that it won’t measure outdoor swims, just indoor – as it depends on an internal accelerometer to figure out each time you hit the wall of the pool.
Openwater Swim Watch: There’s no good answer.
Quite frankly, there isn’t a specific outdoor swim watch that I’d recommend. The closest there is comes from FINIS in the Hydrotracker, but I wouldn’t recommend it. It’s overpriced and I found it prone to error. Honestly if you just want to track where you went, grab a cheap GPS unit and stuff it in your swimcap. Alternatively, if you’ve got a bit more money to spend, any of my triathlon swim watches above will measure swim distance outdoors within about 10-15% while on your wrist.
If you’re getting any of the units listed above, you may be in the market for accessories. Obviously, some bundles include accessories, while others do not. Here’s what I recommend based on having entire buckets worth of accessories to test with.
Before I get started, I’ll note that when possible I’d highly recommend folks buy dual ANT+ & Bluetooth Smart (BLE) sensors. These are available in some categories now, and should be available in almost all categories by the fall (and at worst, the end of the year). The reason for going dual is simple: It allows you the flexibility to choose whichever device you want and know it’ll work with it.
Dual Heart Rate Strap: Wahoo TICKR or 4iiii’s Viiiiva
The Wahoo TICKR is new on the scene, while the 4iiii’s has been around a while. The TICKR (regular edition) is a simple dual ANT+/BLE strap. Whereas the 4iiii’s does the same, but can also bridge ANT+ sensors over to supported Bluetooth apps on your phone. So in that respect, the Viiiiva does more cool stuff, but does cost a bit more.
You’ve also got the Wahoo TICKR RUN, which builds on the base TICKR by adding in the ability to measure pace/cadence without a GPS (i.e. treadmill), as well as give a look at running efficiency type numbers. I’d have no problems recommending that for runners (but it wouldn’t be of any use to cyclists). And on the TICKR X front, that’s now been delayed till at least the end of summer, so I wouldn’t wait on that until the features are finalized.
Optical Heart Rate Sensor: Scosche RHYTHM+
In the last two weeks this has become my primary and singular running heart rate monitor (when not testing something else). I just love it. While I liked the Mio Link wrist straps, I’ve found the signal too weak in some cases and then also not quite as stable as the Scosche from a measurement standpoint. Like the Link, the Scosche is dual ANT+/Bluetooth Smart, so it can transmit to just about anything.
I love this sensor. It quickly snaps on and off bikes with an industrial rubber band, and I’ve never had a problem with it. Pure awesome.
If however, you’re looking for a cheaper option, just simply pickup the Garmin GSC-10 – which usually hovers around $30-$35.
Bluetooth Smart Speed/Cadence Sensor: Wahoo Blue SC
The Wahoo Blue SC was the first Bluetooth Smart Speed/Cadence Sensor, and remains the best option out there for getting speed/cadence data into your smart phone or other Bluetooth Smart enabled device (like the TomTom Multisport watch). I’ve tried a few others – like the Panobike Bluetooth Smart one, but wasn’t impressed with either the unit’s attachment (zip ties), nor the company’s support team when I received a dead on arrival unit after purchase. Wahoo is planning on updating this model to be dual ANT+/BLE, but it’s still slated for later this year unfortunately.
Speed-Only (ANT+): Garmin Speed-Only Sensor
This new little sensor is perfect if you only want speed. It requires no magnets and no zipties, and just simply clips on your back (or front) wheel. I wrote up a thing on it here rather recently.
Cadence-Only Sensor (ANT+ or BLE): Wahoo RPM2
This sensor hits the shelves next week, and in my testing it’s been doing quite well. It transmits on both ANT+ and Bluetooth Smart, so you can use it with your Garmin device or your smart phone.
ANT+ Footpods: The Timex, Suunto, and Garmin mini-footpods (whatever is cheapest that day)
As long as you pickup any of those three above they all work the exact same way and all function with any ANT+ device. In other words, just pickup whatever is cheapest that day. Ensure that you aren’t picking up the giganto footpods of yesteryear.
Bluetooth Smart Footpod: Adidas miCoach Bluetooth Smart Footpod
For Bluetooth Smart footpod capable devices or apps, I’d go with the Adidas one. It’s the smallest BLE footpod on the market and works great with most devices. I have seen some issues with the Polar V800 – but that seems to be more of a Polar problem than a Adidas problem, since it works great with everything else.
Bike Computer Mounts – Garmin quarter-turn Edge (and Forerunner 310XT/910XT) cycling mount:Barfly TT and Road Mounts
I love my Barfly, specifically for triathlon, the TT/Aero Barfly. I reviewed it back here, but it just works perfectly. While K-Edge does make some great (and really darn sturdy) mounts for Garmin units, I simply don’t think your Garmin unit needs that much mount durability to justify the price.
Best Options: FitBit Aria or Withings WS-30 & WS-50
I’ve been including little snippets of these scales in my FitBit Zip and Withings Pulse reviews. Overall, either scale is a solid option and really just depends on if you’re aligned to either of those platforms already (FitBit or Withings). If not, poke at the slight differences with 3rd party partners, and see if either of those partnerships matters. Failing that…flip a coin.
Seriously – they’re near identical scales (exempting the more advanced WS-50 with pulse and air monitoring). Any only relevant differences are partnerships or platforms. And, again, they’re both great scales.
Now, what about ANT+ scales? At this point I wouldn’t recommend them. Garmin (being the only company that ever enabled uploads to devices from them), has pretty much killed off support for them in new devices going forward. Thus buying one of these scales at this point would be kinda silly. Plus, with the exception of the low-end ones, I’ve felt for a while now that the high-end units are a wee bit overpriced.
To say I’ve tried a lot of activity trackers would be an understatement. I have all of them. Really, pretty much every one released to the market from every FitBit variant to both Nike variants to everything in between – including plenty I’ve never bothered to post on here. Here’s where I stand on things.
Both of these units are very solid, and both of them allow you to connect to heart rate straps to get more accurate calorie data when doing non-step related activities. I’d really say the choice simply comes down to whether or not you’ve got Garmin stuff already or got Polar stuff already. The differences between them are teeny-tiny.
Activity Tracker – Mid-Range: Withings Pulse
I really like the Withings Pulse, especially at the price that it sits at ($100). It does all the usual activity monitoring things (steps/distance/calories/time), but, also does resting heart rate via a little optical heart rate sensor. Thus in my mind, if you’re going to get a unit that’s clip-on, this one really makes the most sense from a price vs functionality standpoint.
Activity Tracker – Budget: FitBit Zip
Finally, when it comes to the budget selection – the $59 FitBit Zip is awesome. It gets some 6-8 months of battery life and then uploads via Bluetooth Smart in the background to your phone. I wear it near-constantly and just don’t have to think about it. It just works…perfectly.
Activity Tracker – Data Geek: Basis B1
There is no activity tracker on this planet that tracks more things than the Basis B1. Especially once you account for all the new metrics they added a few weeks ago. It measures everything from skin temperature to sleep to optical heart rate monitoring. And, then displays it in one of the most well laid out displays out there today. The only downside is that the optical sensor used in the Basis doesn’t work terribly well during exercise, resulting in spikes/drops. But…the other 23 hours of the day, it’s there.
The action camera market continues to get more and more crowded, seemingly each week. But for the most part, you can divide cameras up into ones with good clean user interfaces and good software suites, and then cameras with clunky user interfaces and lacking/poor software suites.
While there have been updates to some cameras since last November (for example, an updated Sony Action Cam), they haven’t really changed the landscape of my recommendations. Further, there’s no doubt been plenty of rumors about new GoPro releases this summer. I’m hearing that those won’t at least happen in June, but beyond that who knows (I don’t). So like anything else, if you plan to use it mostly in the summer, then go out and enjoy what’s there now – I don’t expect you’ll regret any purchases of the below.
Action Cams – General: GoPro Hero3 (White)
If you’re looking at the best overall option, I’d say go with the GoPro Hero today, specifically the entry level white model. No doubt the higher end models are great, but realistically they’re un-necessary for most users unless you’re planning to get really into high speed videography and/or more advanced post-production use. In the event you’re looking at the need for more flexibility in post-production, then jump up to the GoPro Hero3+ Black.
The significant numbers of 3rd party add-ons on the mount side for the GoPro make it fairly appealing, plus the wide availability of spare parts in most sport shops around the world should you need it.
Action Cams – Those wanting GPS/sensor data: Garmin VIRB Elite
I’m really liking this action cam. I’ve been using it constantly for all sorts of things over the past few weeks and am really impressed by it in scenarios where I want to show what I was doing from a GPS map standpoint and/or ANT+ data sensors (for example, my cadence, heart rate, etc…). The VIRB Edit software is also surprisingly good, and Garmin has been publishing software updates since release with new functionality for it (including just a week or two ago). Yes, the camera is slightly more oblong than the GoPro, but it’s also waterproof out of the box, and the record button is easier to use when mounted in strange places. Plus, the ANT+ remote control option via your Garmin Edge unit is really damn cool (to start/stop recording of video directly from your Edge).
All that said, the core reason I’d recommend the VIRB over the GoPro is if you plan to overlay data onto videos. If you don’t plan that, then there are few reasons to go the route of the VIRB (albeit, much better battery life of the VIRB is one of them). I discuss all the detailed pros and cons of VIRB vs GoPro at the end of my Garmin VIRB review.
Action Cam Mounts: K-Edge Action Cam Mounts
Now, while I prefer the Barfly for my Garmin Edge, I really prefer the K-Edge mounts for my action cams. In doing all my testing lately I’ve come to love the sturdiness of the K-Edge mounts. It’s hard to explain to someone how incredibly rock-solid these mounts are until you attach a camera to them and don’t even get a sliver of a millimeter of sway on them (unlike a stock mount). Incredible. I just bought a bunch more to use with all sorts of cameras. You can literally hang a full blown DSLR on most of these.
Action Cam Flying Mounts: DJI Phantom 2
I’ve been slowly sneaking in shots into various posts from the DJI Phantom 2 over the past few months since purchasing one, and thus far loving it for use with the GoPro. With a bit of creativity you could probably get some other action cams to mount on it, but you wouldn’t get the stability you get with the GoPro (I’d love a well made VIRB mount for it). Expect to see more shots over the summer from cool places as I take it with me on some trips. Though, I did include some aerial photos inside my recent Edge 1000 review post.
Ok, lots of recommendations. If there’s a category I’ve missed (entirely plausible) – just drop a note in the comments and I’ll try and come up with a recommendation and add it above.
More importantly though, you can mix and match just about everything I’ve talked about above, with in-depth comparison tables over at the product comparison calculator, which today supports: Action Cameras, Heart Rate Straps, Watches/Bike Computers, Power Meters, Activity Monitors, and Trainers.
Select product use/budget for a comparison from the drop down menus:
Select product use:
Select price range:
Note: While many running watches have a basic bike mode, only running units that are multi-sport focused are also included in the bike-only results (in addition to bike-specific units). Hiking units are those that include a Barometric Altimeter, Magnetic Compass and navigational functions.
Or select products for comparison by clicking the product boxes below:
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Adidas Smart Run GPS
Apple Watch SE (2nd Gen)
Apple Watch Series 10
Apple Watch Series 2 & Nike+ Edition
Apple Watch Series 3
Apple Watch Series 4
Apple Watch Series 5
Apple Watch Series 6
Apple Watch Series 7
Apple Watch Series 8
Apple Watch Series 9
Apple Watch Series SE
Bia GPS
Bryton Cardio 60 Multisport Watch
COROS APEX
COROS APEX 2 (Base)
COROS APEX 2 Pro
COROS APEX Pro
COROS Pace 2
COROS Pace Pro
COROS Vertix
COROS Vertix 2
COROS Vertix 2S
CycleOps Joule 2.0 (Original)
CycleOps Joule GPS
Epson ProSense 307
Epson SF-810
FINIS Swimsense
Fitbit Ionic
Fitbit Sense
Fitbit Surge
Fitbit Versa
Fitbit Versa 3
Fitbit Versa Lite
Garmin Edge 1000
Garmin Edge 1030
Garmin Edge 1030 Plus
Garmin Edge 130
Garmin Edge 130 Plus
Garmin Edge 20
Garmin Edge 200
Garmin Edge 25
Garmin Edge 500
Garmin Edge 510
Garmin Edge 520
Garmin Edge 520 Plus
Garmin Edge 530
Garmin Edge 705
Garmin Edge 800
Garmin Edge 810
Garmin Edge 820
Garmin Edge 830
Garmin Edge Explore
Garmin Edge Explore 2
Garmin Edge Touring (Normal)
Garmin Edge Touring (Plus)
Garmin Enduro
Garmin Enduro 2
Garmin Enduro 3
Garmin Epix
Garmin Epix (Gen 2)
Garmin Epix Pro Series
Garmin Fenix
Garmin Fenix 5 (5/5S/5X)
Garmin Fenix 5 Plus
Garmin Fenix 5 Plus (5/5S/5X)
Garmin Fenix 5S Plus
Garmin Fenix 5X Plus
Garmin Fenix 6 Pro Solar Series
Garmin Fenix 6 Series
Garmin Fenix 6S Pro Solar
Garmin Fenix 7 Pro Series
Garmin Fenix 7 Series
Garmin Fenix 8 Series
Garmin Fenix2/Fenix2 SE
Garmin Fenix3
Garmin Fenix3 HR
Garmin Forerunner 10
Garmin Forerunner 110
Garmin Forerunner 15
Garmin Forerunner 165
Garmin Forerunner 210
Garmin Forerunner 220
Garmin Forerunner 225
Garmin Forerunner 230
Garmin Forerunner 235
Garmin Forerunner 245
Garmin Forerunner 25
Garmin Forerunner 255 Music
Garmin Forerunner 265
Garmin Forerunner 305
Garmin Forerunner 310XT
Garmin Forerunner 35
Garmin Forerunner 405
Garmin Forerunner 410
Garmin Forerunner 45/45S
Garmin Forerunner 55
Garmin Forerunner 60/70
Garmin Forerunner 610
Garmin Forerunner 620
Garmin Forerunner 630
Garmin Forerunner 645/645 Music
Garmin Forerunner 735XT
Garmin Forerunner 745
Garmin Forerunner 910XT
Garmin Forerunner 920XT
Garmin Forerunner 935
Garmin Forerunner 945
Garmin Forerunner 945 LTE
Garmin Forerunner 955 Solar
Garmin Forerunner 965
Garmin Instinct
Garmin Instinct Solar
Garmin MARQ Athlete
Garmin Swim
Garmin Swim 2
Garmin Tactix
Garmin Venu
Garmin Venu 2
Garmin Venu 2 Plus
Garmin Venu 3
Garmin Venu SQ
Garmin Venu Sq 2
Garmin Vivoactive
Garmin Vivoactive 3
Garmin Vivoactive 3 Music
Garmin Vivoactive 4
Garmin Vivoactive 5
Garmin Vivoactive HR
Garmin Vivosmart HR+
Garmin Vivosport
Hammerhead Karoo
Hammerhead Karoo 2
Hammerhead Karoo 3
Leikr GPS
Lezyne Mega- XL GPS
Lezyne Mega-C GPS
Magellan Echo
Magellan Switch & Switch Up
Microsoft Band 2
Mio Alpha Optical HR Monitor
Motorola Motoactv
Nike+ GPS Sportwatch
O-Synce Navi2Coach
Polar A300
Polar Grit X
Polar Grit X Pro
Polar Grit X2 Pro
Polar Ignite 2
Polar Ignite 3
Polar Ignite GPS
Polar M200
Polar M400
Polar M430
Polar M450
Polar M460
Polar M600
Polar Pacer Pro
Polar RC3
Polar RCX3
Polar RCX5
Polar Unite
Polar V650
Polar V800
Polar Vantage M
Polar Vantage M2
Polar Vantage M3
Polar Vantage V
Polar Vantage V2
Polar Vantage V3
Samsung Galaxy Active
SIGMA ROX 12 SPORT
Soleus 1.0 GPS
Soleus 2.0 GPS
Stages Dash
Stages Dash L50
Stages Dash M50
Suunto 3 Fitness
Suunto 5
Suunto 5 Peak
Suunto 7 Wear OS Watch
Suunto 9 Baro
Suunto 9 Peak
Suunto 9 Peak Pro
Suunto Ambit
Suunto Ambit2
Suunto Ambit2 R
Suunto Ambit2 S
Suunto Ambit3 Peak
Suunto Ambit3 Sport
Suunto Spartan Sport Wrist HR
Suunto Spartan Trainer Wrist HR
Suunto Spartan Ultra
Timex Cycle Trainer 2.0 GPS
Timex Global Trainer
Timex Marathon GPS
Timex One GPS+
Timex R300 GPS
Timex Run Trainer GPS 1.0
Timex Run Trainer GPS 2.0
Timex Run x20 GPS
Timex Run x50
TomTom Multisport
TomTom Multisport Cardio
TomTom Runner
TomTom Runner Cardio
TomTom Spark
TomTom Spark 3/Runner 3
Wahoo ELEMNT
Wahoo ELEMNT ACE
Wahoo ELEMNT BOLT
Wahoo ELEMNT BOLT V2
Wahoo ELEMNT MINI
Wahoo ELEMNT ROAM
Wahoo ELEMNT ROAM V2
Wahoo RIVAL GPS Watch
As always, thanks for reading – and supporting the site!
Thanks for the all the great reviews! I think I’ve read them all! Have you had a chance to spend much time with the Jawbone UP24? I’m looking to purchase a wrist-based activity tracker in the near future, and I think I would like the sleep tracking ability of the Jawbone. But, how does it compare to units like the Polar Loop (the other unit I’m looking at potentially buying) in terms of durability/waterproofing/general “just works” factor? I actually like the fact that it doesn’t look like a watch because I’ve spent too much money on my watches already that I wear to work and am not looking for something to replace those.
Thanks for any help you can offer and keep up the great work on the reviews!
John
Yup, actually wearing it right now. It works well in terms of tracking steps, but it lacks the HR functionality like the Polar Loop has. Further, the thing that I still don’t like about it is that it doesn’t have a display. So I always have to check my phone to see where my progress is.
I am a long time Garmin Vivofit and Nike Fuelband user. My wife uses the Jawbone UP24. I for one think the UP is great. Even with the always on Vivofit screen after a week or two of “new toy” fiddling the reality is I don’t check it compulsively, perhaps review at the end of the day… and that I could certainly do on the phone. Since I *don’t* want to wear a bracelet AND a watch I choose the Vivofit but for many women and those men who want to wear a bracelet with/without a separate watch the UP24 is a great choice. It by far is the best looking wearable and in terms of waterproofing it is like the Nike & Fitbits… ok to get wet/shower/etc. but not full immersion like swimming or a bathtub… for that you need the Polar or Garmin.
If you are willing to trade the screen for a more bracelet like form factor and don’t mind removing it for swimming the UP24 is a great choice with one of the nicest apps of any wearable around.
I never understood the appeal of wrist-based trackers… from the purely aesthetic perspective. At worst a bit like the old casio calculator watches from 30 years ago. At best a soulless hippy-dippy armwrap thingy. Must be just me with the $billions they are selling.
My The Girl puts her fitbit in her pocket and saves the wrists for the blingiddybling. On reflection I might save some money with a pair of jawbones, hot glue gun and pack of craft store rhinestones. Do you think she’d notice? XD
Some look ok, but yep… none have ever been an aesthetic win, in particular if you like to change it out day to day. Wrist based trackers are popular for two reasons…
1. You are wearing them and won’t forget to switch them when you change clothes etc. like with the older style fitbits that clip to or go in clothing. (This is my favorite reason)
2. If they have a screen you have easy access to quickly check your progress without having to pull them out etc.
Thank you both for your advice! I actually just ordered by Jawbone UP24 today (through your link to Amazon) because I think that I will like the data that it produces around sleep, and I like the overall look of the app. I look forward to your review of it because you always inform me about features that I didn’t know existed in my devices.
Also, how did your tv spot go? Did you ever post a link to the video?
Nice work and thanks for such a great website. One suggestion: why don’t you put in the article the links for your reviews of the products mentioned? I believe it would make sense for your readers.
The ‘More info’ button in the little table at the end of each section lists the In-Depth review. But, that’s probably a good idea to add a second set of links.
Keep in mind, these are ‘My’ recommendations. I simply wouldn’t recommend the Edge 1000 today to anyone. Perhaps in a month, perhaps in 6 months – but not today.
It’s pretty stable for me (whereas the Edge 1000 was…well…not so much). Hopefully the Edge 1000 improves. There’s a new firmware drop yesterday which I’ve been using about 10 days now, and that’s definitely helped in some areas (but not all).
This is the one area where I wish that you (or someone) could do better Ray…although I don’t think there’s any good way to do so. For example I’m on my 3rd garmin 510 and it’s a complete hunk of junk. All 3 have had problems combining the wheel speed sensor with GPS data and 2 of the 3 have had memory corruption. I’m sure that reliability testing just isn’t feasible for you personally (seemingly it’s not something that garmin can handle either)… but have you considered some sort of user rating system? I know those aren’t perfect either, but I think they might fill an in part of the whole picture of a product that isn’t currently available anywhere out there (besides maybe amazon ratings).
Yeah, I’ve pondered something like that, but it’s tough because it always because the ‘forum’ problem. Which is that only unhappy people vocalize being unhappy with a product, whereas happy people don’t generally say anything.
IMHO you must be more careful with these kind of posts since it drives your readers towards Garmin for most if not all segments. Part of it is perceptual since you use Garmin products as reference while benchmarking others. Hope you realize the impact of these posts, both for Garmin and the others.
I call it like it is, and give recommendations like I would to family. If Garmin is the best in that segment – than so be it. The simple reality is that as of today, Garmin is generally making the best products in most segments. Not all of course, which is why you see variance. But I think it’s silly to point someone to a more expensive product with less features just to try and add diversity. I know some magazines do that, but not really the way I roll.
Hi Ray, just to counter the above post, I find it clear you’re unbiased when comparing to last year – for instance the Fenix lost out to the Ambit because at that time it was not up to scratch. You make these things pretty clear in your posts so I’d say carry on as you are, I don’t think anyone who’s read more than a couple of posts sees any bias at all.
I suspect Ray uses innovation as the benchmark and not Garmin. The V800 is the first to combine everything in one, so that it sets a standard at one of the spectrum just as the FR15 does on the other end. That does not mean the V800 must be a recommended item.
Ray’s formula for what he does here is to give you and I an unbiased review, the final decision is purely up to us.
@Ray – keep up the good work. The sports tech world owes you a lot and dare I say mere mortals like me too.
“IMHO you must be more careful with these kind of posts since it drives your readers towards Garmin for most if not all segments. Part of it is perceptual since you use Garmin products as reference while benchmarking others. Hope you realize the impact of these posts, both for Garmin and the others.”
Uhh… you realize this are his recommendations right? He thinks garmin has the best product in terms of price/features/usability in each of the categories. For him to list brand Y or brand Z just to list them means he’s not doing his proper recommendation. Obviously, you can make your own choice, but these are his preferences.
Harmless… if the Garmin products are superior or set the standard then well, they should win. The only part of any of this that makes me sad is while I agree with MANY of Ray’s choices, including the Garmin’s… I still feel the entire sports market segment is being subjected to overly pricy buggy devices and Garmin is the poster child. It reminds me of smartphones in 2006… the Palm Treos and Blackberrys had great “features” but then in 2007 a new phone from Apple came along that had the same or less features but showed the entire market just what junk they were peddling.
I confess I am biased, I had two broken G620 and to make things worse a faulty G510 als well. Bad luck maybe… Sorry I wont recommend Garmin to my family…
From feature perspective I really wanted to like 620, I agree on this winner.
Hi Ray, have you ever considered the garmin etrex series for cycling (with turn by turn navigation, cadence and speed and HRM), and running as well (maybe a bit bulky, but if you have a camelback, you won’t notice them, and can change the batteries mid-run) ? I have one (etrex 30) and a forerunner 405 and I tend to use both for long runs in places I don’t know and biking… etrex are much cheaper too… Thanks
good point here!
I also have eTrex30 myself and always mount it on my bikes. Mainly for recording/navigating purposes (not so much for HR or any cadence/power sensors), but still it’s very handfull. Big clear display, easy buttons, compass, pretty solid open maps.
Also recently I moved from road running towards trail running and noticed on my old FR305 few problems with altitude and general signal strength when in mountains (specially in deep and narrow canyons). So when running with camelback, I just throw in eTrex (still with FR305 on my wrist) for recording purposes – it’s just more accurate and does not loose signal that easy. With some decent mount, it could be even attatched somewhere outside of my backpack and serve as the only unit during the run.
The biggest issue for me is missing simple start/stop activity functionality.
I haven’t played with the eTrex series much (or many of the other ‘Outdoor’ units). I do have a Monterra that I play with sparingly, but that’s more of a proof of concept platform in my mind (it’s Android).
G’day Ray. Are you going to be doing a review of the Shimano sport camera? It was released earlier this year, but is only just becoming widely available. Seems like a solid alternative to GoPro and Garmin VIRB and quite a bit smaller. I realise there is only one of you and many products coming out all the time.
I’m hoping to. Shimano has been really tough to get ahold of, but as you noted, just yesterday retailers started getting notifications about availability. So I’m hoping to be able to get hands-on a unit soon!
Hi Ray – thanks for the great summary. Do you know where we can buy the Scosche RHYTHM+ in France ?
Scosche does not deliver to France – cant find it on Amazon either or anywhere ?
Any other idea ? I really had enough of chest straps :)
Thanks for all
Once again you manage somehow to put garmin above all in all categories. Really? Garmin Vivofit? Fenix2 with Suunto Ambit2 ….S!!!! ??? Don’t forget you made a comparisson tool!
In general, they make the most competitive products in those categories. Again, this isn’t a “let’s be nice and make sure I include everyone in the industry post”. Further, it’s not an industry overview. It’s what I’d recommend to friends, family, and readers post.
As for the Fenix2 with Ambit2S – absolutely. Why should I pay an extra $100+ for the Ambit2 regular over the Fenix2 (or even Fenix1)? Seriously? If the Ambit2 was the same price – sure. But again, prices are a massive part of it.
There’s a great reason why you’d pay $100 more for the Ambit2 over Fenix2: The Fenix is still a complete mess of a product, with glitches, freezes, crashes, and sometimes just failure to function. Constantly, even with the latest update. I got mine right after it was released, and it’s been nothing but a disaster. So bad in fact that Garmin replaced it with a new one, and this new one has AT LEAST four different freezes, drops, or completely nonsensical behavior each week. This happens more often on longer e.g. 3+ hour runs, so most people doing a daily 5 miler will never notice. But for an ultra/trail runner, the Fenix2 remains a complete disaster. Most embarrassing, worst use of $400 I’ve ever spent.
Anyone on the fence about that should go over to the Garmin forums and read through the extensive list of glitches and freezes and screwups of this device. Then read the user frustration as Garmin remains basically useless on the matter. Sure, they update the software constantly. But the product has yet to really work.
Obviously you’ve had a bad experience with your Fenix 2, but that’s not to say everyone has. Remember, people complain about the bad more than the good so you have to take the forums w/ a grain of salt.
I’ve had my Fenix 2 since the beginning and am more than happy with it. The updates add new features all the time and I don’t have the freezes that you’ve experienced. I highly recommend the Fenix 2.
The Suunto forums are just NOT littered with function complaints like the Garmin forums. The Ambit2 is remarkably, possibly perfectly- stable.
In fact – I just did a search for the word “freeze” on a suunto forum, and the only times it came up were in relationship to Garmin products.
and a 2S for $219? wow. I’d agree with Ray on the regular pricing. $500, and $600 for a Sapphire is a bit much. But- if you can get them at competitive prices like this- they are seriously solid products.
One small note: I echo the slight surprise others have shown at recommending the Fenix 2 in the same category as the Ambit 2s or even the full Ambit 2. If price is a big factor, the Suunto devices have it sewn up, certainly in the UK (Maybe US prices are way different? It wouldn’t surprise me if there were trade tariffs on Finnish producs…free trade in the US, as in the EU, is more a rhetorical flourish than a reality!)
Ambit 2s: £207 (wiggle.co.uk)
Garmin 910XT: £245
Ambit 2 Full: £285
Fenix 2 +HRMrun £360
Granted, the Fenix 2 has the extra running data and the bluetooth. But there is a heck of a price hike to get there, especially over the Ambit 2s. I just can’t see it taking the crown in this category, even ignoring the very widespread reports of serious bugs and freezes from Fenix owners.
Yeah, in the US the order of price (without rebates/sales) is:
Ambit2S
FR910XT/Fenix2
Ambit2 (full)
It’s a pretty substantial jump ($100) from the FR910XT/Fenix2 to the full. The sales change things around, and thus as noted in the text above, do change my recommendations.
I’ve read the complaints but I absolutely love my F2. It’s an awesome multisport watch! Logged literally hundreds of miles so far (mostly running but hiking, and skiing as well) with zero crashes and only few minor bugs. My guess is there are a couple faulty units out there but that’s going to happen with any product on the market.
Many thanks – a very helpful summary of what’s been happening across the field. I’m currently weighing up a 910xt (£239 from amazon, similar at others, so around 30% off) or using my ageing (but working fine) 405 with a Garmin swim. Interesting to hear the 910xt might be upgraded this year… but then I probably wouldn’t want to be paying full price for a new version. Thanks again for your blog.
Always glad to see the FR220 still goin’ strong as a top pick ! :D
Sometimes I have problems with it saying I am running a 2m20s mile (or thereabouts…). Obvies I know this is not right. haha. I bought a foot pod after a few months to make sure I was getting accurate data … didn’t you post recently about the hierarchy of the foot pod vs. watch accelerometer (which reigns when there’s a discrepancy)? There was an update that changed this perhaps? Is there a way to change this manually? (sorry I just can’t seem to find the post).
Hi again Ray
Agree with you on the Polar V800, sadly i bought it beein a techno head. So im wondering if i should just wait it out or sell it and buy a Fenix 2 with a garmin edge 810/1000
I really think that if you’re not in dire need of a multisport watch right now, I’d really wait to see what happens later this year. That allows the Polar V800 to mature, it allows new entrants to hit the scene, and it allows us to see if said new entrants are buggy or not.
Hi Ray, firstly thanks for producing the site keep up the excellent work.
I notice hear and elsewhere that you are using the Scosche RHYTHM+ as a HRM but the FR620 as your ’daily runner’ as it where does that mean you don’t need or use the additional metrics that the HRM Run strap provides or there are other benefits of using the Scosche RHYTHM+ that outweigh losing the additional metrics? Which ones don’t you get and of those what do you actually miss? Thanks.
I won’t/don’t get the Vertical Oscillation and Ground Contact Time anymore when I use the Scosche. I still get cadence. And, some of the heart rate variability things like recovery time and VO2Max are also impacted (could be questionable data).
For me in my training efforts none of those actually provide much impact on what I do.
When you come out with a full review of the Mio Link or Rhythm+ I would love to see if you can quantify just how different things like calories burned, recovery time and VO2 max are with the loss of the some of the metrics you can only get at this time from a chest based strap. Are we talking tiny changes or is it significant if you use those metrics I wonder… I agree as much as I like Garmin’s running dynamics I don’t really use those metrics in a practical way.
Dear Ray,
Thanks for all reviews & additional info.
I’m currently running with garmin 210 (with HR). I also started swim training (as you have seen summer in the Greek seas is really awesome) and I intend to participate in 2 sprint triathlon during this summer.
After reading a lot I was just about to get a brand new 910 based 1)on its accuracy 2)on my love for analyzing numbers and basically 3)on a previous comment you said you didn’t expect a new triathlon edition this year (I believe this post was regarding 2014).
So the question is to buy:
a)a used 310 (about 180$ w/o HR) in order to re-sell it soon with low cost and then check the new version or 910
b)a new 910 (about 430$ w/o HR)
c)wait for the new version.
Also:
If I buy 310 or 910 do you suggest I should keep 210 for running or sell it (except its soft premium HR) to reduce the cost?
Do you expect a 310 replacement or a 910 replacement?
Do you have an estimation of the time for the new edition?
Since you have two tri’s this summer and since your summer is longer in Greece, I’d probaly go with the 310XT for now, and skip the indoor swim training piece.
I would then sell the FR210 if you can and just use the FR310XT for that.
Another great post, Thanks Ray!
I have on my wish list for my B-day in September the FR620, to avoid buying it just before a FR630 comes I was wondering if you have an idea when a FR630 would come? Still this year or more likely next year or even only in 2 years? How often does Garmin update their devices in general?
I’m still looking forward to DCR’s review of the Link….especially if it includes any firmware update info. I bought one as soon as it was released – maybe too early? I’ve been happy with mine – accurate (now that I’ve found the best place for it) and I like the form factor. The Rhythm does look interesting tho.
Do you know of any dual BT/ANT+ footpods coming down the pipe? I’d really like to be able to stop worrying about a bridge and maybe switch to a RHYTHM+, but I switch between my FR610 and iPhone apps too much in the gym to go a non-dual footpod.
Awesome stuff!
Are you aware of any plans of making the “next generation” edge 500?
Something with more wireless capabilities and better GPS…
But still in the same size and not as bulky as all the new ones they are coming out with.
I don’t need to know when my phone calls while riding, and I don’t need navigation while on the road. Which is why I and so many others only have a G500 – and a cell phone in my jersey pocket for emergencies only.
Now all I need is a COMPACT unit with all the bike & fitness functions (incl Di2!!) which can communicate to my PC etc and I will be happy – and so will many others!
Bring on the G 505, or a Mio. Do any of the manufacturers listen or are they only interested in “bigger and better” and much more expensive?
Right now I think companies are trying to fight cell phones with the larger units. I think we’ll probably see the pendulum swing back the other way by next spring (in terms of realizing that there’s a lot of cyclists that want a smaller form factor unit).
I posted this in the Garmin forums, but thought I would share here as well. I respectfully disagree with the 620 as the best in class running watch. I haven’t used as many devices as DCRainmaker, but between my 610 and 620 the 610 is a much more dependable running watch, especially if your not running in a straight line in an open field. For a best in class device you shouldn’t have to worry if you’ll get a wonky GPS track or reboot at the wrong time in your next race!
In my opinion if these issues are addressed then it would be best in class, although with almost no communication from Garmin it’s unclear if it’s even possible to address all of them:
1) GPS Accuracy (Some of my runs lose GPS signal all together, and others have really bad tracks. My 610 performs much better. See fellrnr’s analysis for a more scientific look. Many people seem to accept this as “good enough most of the time”, but I think that’s a low bar, especially when almost all other devices on the market are more accurate.)
2) Random reboots (usually not during activities thankfully, and this does seem to have improved some with recent firmware updates, but still not resolved)
3) Lack of footpod integration for more precise pace (the latest update still doesn’t give you instant pace from footpod and distance from GPS from my understanding)
4) VERY slow pace adjustments
5) Battery life (or lack there of)
6) Save screen when pausing run (Instead of keeping your hr and other metrics on the screen it asks you to save the activity. If you accidentally touch it then your activity is complete and you have to start a new one. Also, if you want to keep track of your heart rate recovery then it’s not there.)
To be honest, I’m not sure why more people don’t look at fellrnr’s reviews (again, no disrespect to DCRainmaker, I very much enjoy reading his blog). It appears that Fellrnr had his 620 replaced, and the new one is providing even worse GPS accuracy than the last (link to fellrnr.com). I’ve seen the argument that he runs the same route over and over, but how else could he accurately compare devices?
@ Mike – I realize that I can push the back button, but I run in the city a lot, so I’m always getting stopped at lights and it’s pretty easy to accidentally hit save rather than back on the touch screen.
@ Tim – I may not have explained my gripe about the recovery heart rate well enough… with the 610 when I get stopped at red lights I can watch as my heart rate goes down, but with the 620 I get the save screen. I can push back to see the heart rate as Mike suggested, but then run the chance of accidentally hitting save. Plus it’s another step for something that was easier with the 610.
I think the save screen issue is pretty minor. The bad GPS and random reboots are the biggest issues in my list from my perspective.
Also, I should have said this at the beginning: Thanks for the reviews Ray! I do really enjoy reading them! I have no idea how you find the time…
I also have the reboot issue and since it sometimes happens when I reach the end of an activity, I do lose a little data too.
I’m on my 2nd unit and Garmin is considering swapping it out for a 3rd. I didn’t know about yesterday’s firmware until Ray mentioned it above, so I haven’t had a chance to try it yet.
Also, I did have an incident where the watch got itself into a state where the GPS data was ridiculously inaccurate. I had to manually power cycle it to straighten it out, but thankfully, I haven’t had problems with it since. Outside that incident, I find it measures routes I know well just as the 610 did.
The 610 certainly had issues at first, but Garmin got them straightened out much faster than this. I’m really hoping the rebooting problem is fixed eventually because otherwise, I really do like the product.
Ray, Surprised the v800 has not made it to the list! Great as a everyday watch aswell as multisport! Major advantage of being able to wear it with a suit! Which you cannot with the 910xt! Great review!
It might make the list this fall, but as of today, it’s hard to justify it making the Multisport category list when it can’t do swimming, nor a lot of other features (and cost more than others). Again, probably later this year – but not today.
Ray, if it weren’t for the quick release system, would you say the real difference between the FR910XT and Fenix2 is the bluetooth/smartphone connectivity? I have an 810 (per your recommendation!) and very much like it, but am getting into tri’s and really want to get a tri-oriented watch.
I’m a bit surprised with the scale recommendations. There’s really nothing special about them other than they connect via Bluetooth, and have some sort of tracking software. I would think most people seriously training would be interested in body composition and not just weight. Tanita has a few cool ones. Any thought on expanding the scale category?
Well, connect via WiFi. And I’d argue that the tracking and integration with a slew of platforms helps with accountability. With 3rd party platforms they can push to everything from Training Peaks to MapMyFitness to MyFitnessPal, etc…
The problem with the Tanita scales is that they integrate with…well…nobody. And, on the body comp thing, as I’ve shown in the past, it’s not terribly accurate. They tend to be consistent for a given athlete, but not accurate: link to dcrainmaker.com
Do any of he scales actually integrate with Training Peaks? I checked withings and fitbit, and neither of them mentioned TP in their list of partners. The Training Peaks store does not offer a scale, so I assume if they aren’t pushing one, it may not exist. Or are you talking about 3rd party applications that take the data from the scale and push it to Training Peaks?
Withings does. Or rather, it did (direct connection). I haven’t quite validated it’s still good though since I changed things around last fall on my Withings account with TP.
I believe you can also do it with SyncMetrics as well (3rd party).
Thanks for another great article. I am currently looking to replace a dying FR305 with something modern and this list really helps. I am still trying to figure out if I want to go for another multisport watch, or change to a FR + Edge. One question I had about fitness trackers, how do you deal with the calorie counts from the fitness tracker and using a dedicated device during a workout? Are you supposed to wear both devices, or take off the fitness tracker and run/bike/swim with the dedicated device? I use MFP so I am considering the Pulse (already have a withings scale) or the Vivofit, just not sure how to integrate them properly.
Do you predict that any of the forthcoming multi-sport watches will have significant benefits over the Garmin Swim when it comes purely to pool use? I’m just getting into swimming seriously, and while I run and cycle, I don’t expect to be competing in any triathlons. I’ve got my GPS needs covered for the other activities, and while I’d like an all-in-one watch, I don’t want anything as large/expensive as the 910xt or Fenix2, unless the pool metrics are a significant improvement over the Swim. Something trim that doesn’t need regular charging sounds good, and the price is easier, but it’s now an older product.
In the pool, probably not. I would like to see Garmin add a Swim Workout feature that they’ve hinted at promising for years (even the Garmin Connect site still shows it as ‘Coming Soon’), but I don’t know if such a feature will make the cut.
I was wondering about the heart rate sensors and compatibility with iPhone/bluetooth. I was debating on getting a watch (former die hard Garmin user) but have been in and out of injury for a while and about to start another course of PT and just getting by with lifting and biking and swimming. The Garmin 15 looks great but would be nice to just get something cheap for HR just for feedback purposes and effort. Go out for a bike ride with my phone in my bag and have HR on to get a gauge for effort while using Runkeeper for distance, etc. Nothing fancy. Just kind of having fun and playing before (hopefully) getting back to racing down the road. The 4iiii looks interesting but I don’t know that I need everything. Can it really connect with a footpod too? How does that work?
I’m looking for basically the fr620 but with some internal storage to put music on because I hate running with my phone. Any ideas or thoughts of when these will come out? I know there’s one out there but that it is not up to par. Thanks for the help
Agreed Sal, my recommendation of the Shuffle is part because it’s quite inexpensive and part because it clips onto a running shirt, vest or similar. I do realize that the Nano comes with a much higher entry level capacity though, but at quite a price differential as well.
I don’t expect one from Garmin anytime soon. Today you’ve got the Adidas GPS which does that quite well. I think we’ll probably see more devices pull instead from your phone for music.
As summer approaches, and marathon season approaches, I’m becoming fearful of possible freezeups on very long runs that I’ve heard about on the Fenix 2. For short runs (under 10 miles), it has performed wonderfully. Ray, any comment or personal experience you’ve had with multiple long runs or the performance of your 620? The rumors of the upcoming suunto 3 have me very intrigued, in particular in the form factor since the suunto 2 is not comfortable for me.
any plans on re-reviewing/reviewing the iphone trackers and ‘smart-ish’ watches?
i love the wahoo app, but as the magellan can’t get text notifications (from what i can tell) i use the pebble – which doesn’t talk to wahoo :-( so ismoothrun it is.
i have no gps problems with either app (sometimes i run both) and i run in a “hilly” (really sm. mountain with lots of ups and downs) and rural with shotty GPS (my tomtom takes 5+ minutes to find a GPS signal) and my iphone has not GPS issues in either app
the pebble is solid so far for what it does (keeps my phone in my pocket on the trail/road so i don’t drop it and bust a screen) (now if you have an echo around you want someone to test … i’d be happy to — techie/nerd to techie/nerd)
but i’d love for you to run a echo/pebble/whatever test and see the comparison
as well as app test (yea, i already did tests myself but others might like to know the comparisons … though if anyone wants some info i’d be happy to share what i’ve figured out .. but be warned i’m no ray … i did test, and could do a really thorough job if needed …. but my goal was to weed out the weak and stick to the strong
.. not to mention I don’t have cool stories, live in france, do triathlons, taste test cupcakes, or walk the ‘hollywood walk of fame’ on TV … i’m just a techie, nerd, ex-homeschooling now empty nest mom trying to get back in shape (or have less shape based on how you look at it) taking it one day/week/month at a time.
… plus maybe the app developers would consider adding things like recovery info, and fixing the fact that ismoothrun tracks cadence but uploads it as bike cadence (which while it’s annoying does let me know info i need) if DCRainMaker suggested it…
I’ll be doing more activity trackers, and more smart watches as they make sense. For me, that means they have to be fairly focused on sport/fitness (versus just more of a geeky smart watch).
It’s just a balance of time really, so I tend to try and focus on the products that I hear the most requests for (+ products that personally interest me).
The Pebble watch is is really solid for me as well. I actually sold my RFLKT because the Pebble did most of what I needed (via iSmoothrun). AND I still get text/phone/email notifications and music control.
The Pebble combined with the Scosche Rythm+ on my upper arm allows my iPhone to stay in my back jersey pocket.
regarding cadence, which service are you referring to, when you say it gets uploaded as “bike cadence”?
If you use TCX it should be correct, cause it’s marked as “RunCadence”..
Any idea when Garmin is going to add optical heart rate to the FR620? With cycling support, it looks like a good watch. I’d love to train with HR, but the current Garmin straps are useless to me. (No, my heart rate is not 300bpm…)
Oh, I just saw the optical HRMs; those look great! By the way, there is a missing link in the table called “‘2014 RECOMMENDATIONS: SENSORS’ COMPATIBLE”. The Rhythm+ review is said to be coming soon, but it is actually already here: link to dcrainmaker.com
As for Garmin adding optical HR – I don’t expect that soon. But, I think given the way things look from other competitors (both represented here, and those with rumored plans) – Garmin certainly needs to get on it to remain competitive, especially in the lower and mid-range markets.
Hi Ray, thanks for the recommendations and reviews – very very helpful!
You mentioned that the Edge 500 is $169 but on the CT site I see it as $199. Was that changed in the past few days?
Thanks!
I’m surprised that you recommended the 910xt because of the quick-release mount. That’s the exact feature I’d strongly caution against. Enough people have had their 910xt spun-off during competitive open water swims to show there is a design flaw with the mount. It needs to have a locking tab that must be depressed before allowing it to be rotated and detached.
I loved having my 910xt mounted on my aerobars. It worked perfectly for 11 triathlons, then it fell in the lake during the 12th. But it probably helped my race time though, as I had $400 worth of anger to work out. It worked out for Garmin as well; I purchased another 910xt. . . sans the quick-release mount.
It honestly depends on which device you use. If using the Garmin, definitely go Garmin for compatibility reasons. If using the O-Synce, stick with that (I haven’t had a chance to test Garmin remote with O-Synce device).
What about navigation features is relation to running watches? To me high end running watch must have navigation, at least back2start. Looks for you navigation is no issue despite your frequent travel… Looks navigation is available in multisport category watches or trail running section. Although to me Suunto 2R would qualify. What is your opinion?
For road running I really don’t see it as a ‘must have’ feature at this point. I think that’s probably because the screens on today’s watches make poor running map companions (whereas something like the Motoactv would have been legit useful). Thus, if I’m going out somewhere where navigation is a requirement, I’m just going to take a phone for that. And again, I’m really looking more at road running with the FR620.
I suspect within a few years depending on iWatch and/or other competitors – that might change and the screens might be useful for navigation. I guess I’d be looking to have an Edge 800/810/1000 navigation experience on a FR620-sized device. Then I’d be happy.
Ambit’s Back to Start feature where it displays a general direction and distance to the start (or a chosen waypoint) is quite useful even without a map. I used it multiple times when running in unfamiliar places. I used Back to Start on Garmin FR610 as well. It isn’t clear why Garmin decided to remove such a useful feature. Anyway, for me there is no going back to Garmin. I’ll stick with Ambit, thank you very much.
I’m confused about the Adidas BLE Footpod. The text in the article implies it’s new (out for a few weeks), which leads me to think that there’s been a recent change. However, looking at link to adidas.com, it appears to be the same one I’ve been using for quite a while?
Is it “stale” text from the original post about the footpad that’s confusing me, or was there an update?
the name of that device is damned confusing, seen it called the Micoach, and other times the speed_cell. I’m hoping they’re the same device, coz I ordered speed_cell from Adidas store in UK, with a damn long delivery timeframe sadly.
I bought the 910xt back when Garmin had their sale plus the $50 mail in rebate. I like the watch but don’t LOVE it, primarily because of the size of it. I used it for my 70.3 a few weeks ago and it worked perfectly, so no complaints about the functionality. I only have one more race this season, so it’s primary use thus far has been training.
With all of this said and as I’m nearing my return window, do you think that the watch at the discounted pricing is worth holding onto with the potential for replacement on the horizon? You say not to get it at full price if there isn’t a need, but I’m curious to hear your thoughts about getting it at the sale price.
That’s tough since you’re close to return window. I guess for me, if I already bought it – then I’d stick with it and use it for the rest of the year. You could revisit things next year. Otherwise, you could be in a situation where a replacement device might not be available until first snow.
I’ve been ready for a while. Thanks for the great site.
What I loved about my 310xt was that I could set a simple pace range. Alert when I go slower than this or faster than that. Through a firmware ‘upgrade’ they took that feature away. I don’t really train for events, but run occasional 5k.
Well, there are some non-GPS options that can target a pace or HR interval, I guess. At least my old Forerunner 50 with a foot pod and HR belt could do both of these. So I assume current FR70 should be able to do that too.
Hi Ray, tks for the advices. You’ve announced some time a goa reviews of the Sigma Rox 10 and Polar V650. Are these coming out soon ? I wonder if they will change your recommendations above for bike gp computers ? Thanks
The V650 review will be out a few weeks after Polar finalizes things. Right now it’s going to be a bit still. I don’t expect that release to change my recommendations immediately. By fall we can see where things stand – but it’s a lot like the V800 in that it’ll be released with many features still en route.
On the Sigma Rox, it’s still in my queue to write something on, just backlogged.
Great site, thanks for all the care and attention that go into your reviews. Quick question, I’m just getting back into running and had some success with HR based training before and I’m wondering whether to go TomTom cardio or Garmin fr15/rhythm plus combo. Any thoughts as to advantages disadvantages? Scosche has emailed me tosay three weeks till rhythm plus released in UK so have some time to decide,
Thanks!
That’s a tough one. With the FR15 you get the daily activity tracking, whereas with the TomTom you get Bluetooth Smart uploads and the built-in optical.
With either combo you’ll be able to do HR training, and neither watch really includes any sort of prescriptive plan options – so it’s mostly just following your own plans for either. I’d say it really comes down to whether or not you want optical HR, or activity monitoring.
Thanks for the feedback, might go with the FR15 and Rhythm plus combo, as (if Scosche match the current Rhythm price as seem to have in the US) it should come out cheaper, and gives me the flexibility to use the Rhythm plus with other devices if watch needs replacing or running with phone as I do at the moment.
Still like the look of the tomtom though I can live without bluetooth syncing.
So on the strength of these recommendations, I decided to replace my elderly Garmin FR110 with a 310XT. Further to the 620 cycling compatibility upgrade, I’m now wondering whether I should return the 310XT and go in for the 620?
I mainly use the device for running and increasingly cycling (outdoor and turbo) as I am getting in to triathlon. For swimming I use a Garmin Swim already. I won’t be getting a power meter (unless I win one in the Giveaway!) in the foreseeable future and I don’t see myself having much use for a watch in the water (apart from pool training, where I would use the Swim).
Are the speed/cadence cycle metrics going to be as good as what i’d get out of a 310XT? Can you ‘change disciplines’ on the 620 without too much fuss?
Any one got any suggestions or advice? Many thanks.
So am I reading correctly that you are mainly just using the Scosche RHYTHM+ with your FR620 now instead of the Garmin HRM-Run? Is the accuracy & better form factor a good trade-off for the lack of running dynamics? Do you miss any of that running dynamic stuff?
Yup, that’s correct. For me the accuracy is fine, and the better form factor is a good tradeoff for me despite the lack of running dynamics (which, I haven’t really found much value in beyond geek-factor).
Wondering if there’s any solid combination activity tracker / bike computer options that work with 3rd party apps (like cyclemeter)? Seems to me they should all be talking to each other so you don’t need an activity tracker for your 23 hours, a bike computer for your 1 hour and ne’er the two shall meet? Is there an all in one option? The new Apple Health feature should help if I’m understanding it right. But any developers or big tech cos (hello Garmin) signed up yet?
Basically want an option that won’t drain my phone battery, and is tied to my everyday tracking. Anyone else feeling this void? If I’m crazy and there’s stuff on the market already, please enlighten me.
-todd
Thanks for the quick reply. It’s good adivce to suggest an app, but I guess that answers my question. Apparently there’s not a good device on the market that does these things?
Previously I had My Fitness Pal and found it more useful to nutrition and dietary tracking (ie, entering specific meals, etc.) than for activity and fitness tracking (heart rate, GPS bike riding, etc.). Still looking for the one device that can connect my wrist to the bike without killing my iphone battery. Incidentally, I saw Google released an Apple Health like feature for Android today. so maybe the market’s turning toward centralization and convenience for those of us that to combine data.
I would say that heavily overpriced Ambit2 over Fenix2 is simply a consequence of european product vs chinesse one. That is trade of. Features aside, Suunto is way better built device. It’s just solid, not plastic look (some one mentioned that fenix looks like $10 plastic watch – I wouldnt go that far, but Suunto looks like a war-ready device, rock solid).
Different thing is that Ray operates with American prices, where Ambit2 vs Fenix2 is really overpriced (sthg like $500 vs $400 is the simplest setup and eve worse $650 vs $450 in packages and saphire version of suunto). But here in Europe things look a bit different. Garmin’s price in Euros is same as in dollars (400E) while Ambit2 Silver without HR monitor can be found for 310E (amazon.it) !! Then things look differently…
Need a running GPS watch and have been reading your site the past few days. Looking for the feature of Virtual Racer. That leaves Garmin FR610, 910XT, and a hope and a prayer they add it to Fenix2. So with the rebate and discount at CT, the 610 is $315 and 910 is $355 (both with HRM). Is the little price difference a no brainer? Won’t likely use the Cycle/Swim features, but the battery life is a huge plus.
It depends a bit on how big a watch you want to be honest. If you’re just a runner, I’d probably go with the FR610 unless you’re running more than that 8-10 hours in a shot. But, that’s just me…
I really don’t get the FR610 recommendation. That thing gave me problems within months of buying it – spikes in heartrate (making me change the strap & HRM twice), crappy wristband, forcing me to switch to the velcro strap, and finally, battery problems,when the watch started giving up after something like 18km, supposedly with an empty battery (but with 40% left when I connected it to the charger), resulting in continuous resetting and lost data, and now it even frequently starts reverse loading, draining instead of charging the watch. If you google these problems, you will find literally hundreds of people with identical problems.
Even if you have one the FR610s that doesn’t have any of these problems, the existence of these issues should make recommending it very hard, imho.
Did you ever call up support to swap out your watch?
The issues are fairly rare, despite what Google might say. If you search for issues (or, go to a forum looking for an issue), then by default, that’s what you’re going to find. People without issues don’t post as such.
The singular issue to really be aware of on the FR610 was the early ones that some people had skin reaction to (first 8 or so months of production), but Garmin has long stopped producing those (in favor of a plastic backing), and still to this day will refund/replace those watches free of charge. Same goes for the pins btw, which were enlarged early on to resolve that problem.
The battery issues actually over 160 posts on Garmins forum, up until last month. I recognise the trouble with the backing, but didn’t get a skin reaction myself after the metal look wore off.
I did contact support, actually, several times. With the heartrate strap and meter, they sent me a replacement, free of charge, which was great, and that still works. With the current battery issues (I bought the watch feb. 2012) ‘all’ they are offering, is replacing it, at a price:
“Garmin offer a 12 month manufacturer’s warranty, if your purchase was more than 12 months ago we can offer to replace your device for a fixed replacement cost of €94.94” (email, May 1t6th)
I am unsure if that is the way to go, but I was not aware of the changes made to the FR610. If I can be certain it will function properly, maybe I should consider it, but it irks me to have to pay again, it was expensive enough, really. Still, the alternative is a new, different watch, which is more expensive.
Hello, mr. Rainmaker!
Can you help me with some advice?
I wish to buy watches with GPS, Heart Rate and I think, I need good instructions. As I see, we have good programs in Adidas micoach. But I don’t need to have watches to use Adidas – I have it in my Android smartphone.
What can you tell about Garmin training programs? Are they good?
And, as I understand from your site, I can upload instructions only on watches Forerunner 220 or 620? On FR 15 I can’t?
And some people in Russia speak, that Garmin is not best decision, it for hipsters and instagram lovers. What do you think about it?
To buy Polar, in need much more money – to have GPS sensor, to upload data with FlowLink, now I don’t like Polar.
Final question: Garmin Forerunner 220 is really good and optimal for running (and garmin web-service, and training programs)?
The Garmin training programs (the downloadable ones) are actually pretty good, especially for being free. And yes, those only work with the FR220 or FR620 and not with the FR15 (they also work with watches like the FR310XT/FR910XT, etc…).
I’m not sure what’s good or bad about Hipsters or Instagram, but, people of all walks of life like Garmin devices (and Polar devices, etc…).
I’m a trail runner and looking for GPS watch that can last for long distance run. Between fenix 2 and ambit2 which one suitable for ultra trail running and has the longest battery life span?
I know both has 50hrs battery life but then depending on the setting, which one is better?
Hi Rey,
Always appreciate all your great works so I am back to you for your expert advice.
I run/hike and do biking.
I do both run/trail running and max I go 15 mile in run. So I know where I am going and navigation is not big deal.
While biking I like exploring new routes. I log avg 30-40 miles in single ride, I prefer something which can guide me about bike route.
Can you please suggest best bet which can serve both biking and running.
What A great site. I’m going to buy my first gps running watch. I will only use it for running – mainly short distances: 5 and 10 km. So interval features are most welcome and the virtual partner also seems quite cool.
My dilemma is the following: first choice would be the FR220, but it’s also quite expensive. As an alternative I could buy the FR210 or the (only slightly more expensive) 320xt. The latter seems to offer most bang-for-buck, but my concern is that I would feel it too clunky (especially since I don’t need the multi-sports-mode).
So her main question is whether the 220 is so much better than the 210 and whether the 310xt is a tolerable choice for running-only?
Prices in Denmark:
FR220: 400$ (yes I know it is ridiculous compared to US prices)
FR210: 200$
FR310: 230$
If she wants a smaller watch than the 310XT and you need to save some money, then the FR210 or FR15 (or the Ambit2 R) are all perfectly fine for running. True the FR15 doesn’t have the interval function, but she might find the other features useful instead. Otherwise, if she’s looking for phone upload connectivity then the FR220 is really the best bet.
Hol Ray, which one: FR15 or Tomtom runner? Budget runner who likes the sport but not exigent.
Which one has the best balance between simplicity and customisation? I dont care about the activity tracker what i really care is about the training features like creating workouts, virtual partner or the zone settings in the TomTom, etc. I like to train at certain paces and like to receive feedback from the device.
Given what you’re saying, I’d probably skew more towards the TomTom Runner than the FR15 – primarily because you aren’t interested in the activity tracker piece.
Newbie runner here…have been using phone + runtastic combo on runs and love being able to see stats and progress etc. Uncomfortable with phone strap combo and would like to buy a gps watch.
Planning on getting serious with running and training for half marathon in 7 months time. Have researched loads and still cant decide. Between the Nike Sports watch and the Tom Tom cardio…..at the moment.
Want a watch only for running. Will be training outside but do lots of running on treadmill. Also I live on an island in the middle of the ocean…will these watches still have no problems picking up satellites?
Advice on which one to pick from the two…..or out of all the choices?
Hmm, I’d actually look at the Ambit2S. Unless you really really want the barometric altimeter, you could pickup the 2S for $219 still…which is a pretty darn sweet deal.
As Garminmuch pretty much killed off support for ANT+ Scales and knowing they got into the activity trackers market, can we expect them to launch a scales under their own brand intergrated with Garmin connect?
When could we expect such scales to be available?
Checking your thoughts around this before ordering the Fitbit Aria. (Withings requires iPhone for setup, so that rules it out)
FYI, I currently use Garmin FR620 and want to follow up my weight vs sports activities. I do not own any Fitbit products at the moment.
I’m not sure, I would have actually expected it sooner to be honest. I don’t expect one anytime soon though. Typically stuff like that tends to be announced around CES, as it gains the most traction there.
There are some 3rd party apps though that will pipe Withings weight data to Garmin Connect. See this post here and SyncMetrics: link to dcrainmaker.com
Hi there and thanks for a really superb website :-) I’ve got a quick question. I currently own a ambit2 and I run mainly on road – but I love hiking and GPS is a must for me – but I am really interested in a accurate calories estimate. Is the ambit2 accurate or should I consider an alternative?
I generally find that Garmin/Suunto/Polar calorie consumption on their higher end devices with a HR strap is almost always within just a few percent of each other.
Thanks for the reply and for the tremendous review. I noticed that you usually do the data fields, but I don’t see it for the FR15 which is the one I am considering.
Great reviews fella. Would like a little help though. I have used smartphone for years but as they get bigger the call of the GPS watch gets greater. I run (trails) and ride a lot. Looking at 310xt for about 150 with heartrate monitor! Just interested in pace while running and zones and avg speed while riding and most of all reliable GPS. I have had bad times on waiting for an age on GPS signal to random spikes whist running. Is this the best for that price?
Older GPS units will take a bit longer to receive satellite signal, so unfortunately you won’t entirely sidestep that here. That said, you shouldn’t see any major speed spikes with the 310XT. Overall, the 310XT continues to be an incredible deal for the price.
So you would say regardless of its age it still goes ahead of some of the other options in that price bracket? like FR15, tomtom etc not to mention with these the loss in multi sport function
Yes and no. Definitely from an overall functionality standpoint. Though, it’s much bigger and lacks things like Bluetooth Smart (TomTom) or Step monitoring (FR15). So it’s a bit of a balance as to what you might find more value in.
Cool thanks for your comments. it certainly helps. Seems to be so much tech built in its hard to know what i want and what i need and what i dont know what i dont want that i may need!
I am surprised that I don’t see the Suunto Quest GPS. It costs $249 including HRM and seems to have functionaility only found in the Garmin 600 series.
With the current sale price of $219 for the Ambit 2S, would you see that as a better deal than going with a 310XT? You mentioned that the 310Xt is still a great price to functionality unit.
In general for triathletes – yes, because of the indoor swimming. For those that do complex custom workouts or intervals though, the 310XT might be a bit better option. But yeah, the 2S continues to be awesome at $219.
Hi Rey,
I agree Suunto2 S is great at this price point of 219 but is it better to go for Ambit2S or wait and see as Suunto may be releasing 3S like Ambit3 .
Yes, but most people don’t want to run with a separate GPS pod (that you have to charge). Thus, it doesn’t make my recommendations since I can’t really recommend it. Given there are other more capable watches starting at $150ish that support HR straps (per above), those are better options.
I guess the issue is that if I want my HR Recovery stored and an index for Overtraining, etc, I can either pay $399 for the FR 620 or use Strava GPS on my mobile phone and buy the Quest for $150. Do you know of any other GPS/HR all in one that has what I need in the under $200 range?
Units like the TomTom Runner have a HR strap and are under $200. Alternatively, if you like your phone you could get the Magellan Echo, which just dropped down to $129 (+ I think about $40 for the HR strap). And then you can use a slew of apps.
i dropped my tomtom multi-sport and cracked the glass. feeling rotten as i had chosen this one because it allowed me to run even in mumbai rains and now, i am not going to be able to wear it for the next few months. anyone with experience of mending a cracked glass on their gps watch?
are you aware of any news for what concerning Android developments? They were expected in Q2-14.
I will need then to use it on my two bikes where I have aero bar (3T ergonova and Giant AERO). Any clue on which support should I buy? Wish to sell my edge510.
As everyone else, I too appreciate all the time you put into the product reviews. Makes for an informed decision. I’ve had an experience with the 910XT that I thought I’d pass along. I bought my first 2 years ago and am now on my 3rd device. Like clockwork my altimeter goes out at 12 months. I’ve talked with Garmin and they have indicated that this is a known problem and are willing to fix it for another $90. I like the functionality of the device which is why I’ve exchanged my 3 times but am getting more concerned with this approach and questionable data issues coming from my other ANT devices. Any experience you’ve had that would show the stability over time?
Am really torn between 2 watches. The Tom Tom Runner Cardio and the Garmin Forerunner 620. Both are cool but can’t decide. I love the simplicity of the TT but the GF has a lot more features. The V02 and Oscillation features on the GF are great. But the inbuilt HRM in the TT is a major plus. Both are expensive but would appreciate any help or suggestions in aiding me choose.
I’d ignore the Running Dynamics pieces and instead focus on how much you value the built-in heart rate strap. That’s in my opinion the biggest reason to choose the TomTom unit. If that’s not a critical item for you, I’d look at the FR220 or FR620 (with looking at the FR220 being more relevant to the features on the TomTom units).
Ray, this is an incredible breakdown and in very useful. I do have one question however.
I noticed that absent in the Triathlon budget options is the Tom Tom MultiSport. I believe it has all the features the others do, plus it has some of the swimming features the others don’t. Am I missing something, or did you just not feel it was up to snuff to make the list. I wanted to ask you about that before making a decision.
The challenge is that the TomTom doesn’t actually have a multisport mode, which makes it tough for triathlons. Further, it doesn’t support outdoor swimming (just pool swimming). Lastly, in comparison to the units noted, the TomTom is very basic feature-wise. That’s not necessarily a bad thing, but from my recommendations standpoint I generally wouldn’t recommend the multisport edition.
Actually, i do have a followup comment. (sorry to bother). What about for only training purposes, where I wouldn’t be rushing between events. Also, I don’t train outdoors for swimming.
Your site has been very helpful in my search for the right fitness watch. I’m currently off-season training (running and biking) for Cross-Country Skiing and looking first and foremost for heart-rate monitoring and workout planning capabilities. With that in mind, I started looking only at Polar devices, but have found myself considering Garmin devices after seeing your recommendations.
I know Polar has it’s origins in heart rate monitoring and Garmin’s is in GPS. Do you feel that Garmin’s heart rate monitoring and analysis is on par with Polar?
I’m thinking a multi-sport watch would be best and am considering the 310xt, 910xt, and RCX5. I’ve seen you mention that the RCX5 is a dated watch, but it seems the 910xt is almost as old and 310xt is even older. Is it the overall Garmin experience (web,software,compatibility) that puts the 310xt over the RCX5 for you?
Thanks for this detailed and super-informative site. But after reading pages and pages, I’m even more perplex then before…
Could it be that is actually the wrong time to buy a running watch, and the best thing is to simply….. wait?
On one handed, we have very mature devices having a load of features (like the Garmin 620, and it’s equivalent at Suunto, Polar) but using an antiquated and cumbersome technology (heart rate chest straps).
On the other hand, we have new devices using a promising and disruptive technology — optical heart rate sensors — that are totally lacking in features (TomTom Runner Cardio).
We then have somewhat complicated compromises, like wearing a Scosche or a Mio on your arm next to your Garmin, with two devices to charge (and potentially to lose in a hotel room somewhere…).
I personally don’t mind running with an iPhone, but even there, appas like Runkeeper or Runtastic have rather poor features for serious runners (clumsy and incomplete programming of interval workouts, no training calendars and so on).
Should it be too much to ask that in the course of the next year someone comes out with a watch with equivalent functions as a Garmin 620 but with a built-in optical sensor? Or that TomTom will get the software right?
Thank you for all you do!! Question, have you ever reviewed the BC-1500 Tanita scale? I don’t believe any scale is “accurate” however I do believe in looking at trends. If the user is consistent in usage (time of day, sturdy location of scale, etc.) then trends can be useful. A group of us used this scale during a mini Tri training day. We measured prior to swim, after bike, and after run. The results were “interesting”…I am just not sure I believe it. And at a ridiculous price point I would want something to believe in. I wondered if THE DC Rainmaker had considered it :). Here is the Amazon link: link to amazon.com
Yeah, the problem I have with it is that fewer products are supporting the ANT+ side of weight scales these days (for example, not the FR220/FR620), and I feel like for trending data such as weight – it’s important to get that data in a log somewhere. Scales like the FitBit and Withings put that online and sync to numerous sites. Heck, I just saw a site this weekend sent to me that sync’d the FitBit scale to Garmin Connect.
From an accuracy standpoint, all of them are rock-solid on the weight side, but more or less wobbly on the body fat. You’ve probably seen my previous weight scale accuracy testing here: link to dcrainmaker.com
Thus why given the high price of units like the BC-1500 – I just don’t see it as worth it.
It depends, in general though, I’d go with the FR220. Here’s why you would want to purchase the FR610 instead:
1) You want some of the basic navigational features of the FR610
2) You want the cycling-specific mode (remember, you can still change the display to ‘Speed’ on the FR220), or you want ANT+ speed/cadence sensor support on the FR610
3) You want to display 4 customizable data fields instead of three, per page.
4) You want Virtual Partner (the FR220 has pace alerts, which is like a floor/ceiling instead)
5) You want weight scale support
Those are the main reasons. Personally, I’ll take the quicker satellite reception and upload of workouts through the phone, as well firmware updates that way. Also remember that the FR220 has significantly more features than it’s older sibling, the FR210 (for example, advanced workout support). So it’s really more of a FR620 ‘Lite’ than it is a FR210 ‘Pro’…if that makes sense.
Hello Ray,
Can I have your suggestion, please? (I am open to anyone suggestion)
I would like to buy a new sporttester ASAP, and I would appreciate a little help from you.
I “kill” my Polar RC3 GPS yesterday, my old Suunto M5 doesnt have an integrated GPS, so no chance for back up.
Here is what i want / need:
– multisport model ideally (running – 3 to 4 days a week, MTB riding 1 to 2 days, sometimes hiking, in-line skating, soccer, squash, TRX, skiing, etc.),
– integrated GPS is a must,
– HR measurement is also a must (optical sensor sounds interesting),
– wireless transmission and PC synchronisation (This is a must!!! Bad experiences with cables),
– contactless charging (i.e. no micro USB, or a like) (Again bad experiences – dead Polar, cant be charge anymore :-( ),
– don´t care about manufacture´s web site (I will upload my workouts to Strava and Endo),
– as good build quality as possible,
– price about 300 USD (but can be more, if necessary).
I started to think about Suunto Ambit 2S, which is now on excellent discount… but it doesnt have a wireless transmission (It is a pitty, it doesnt support Suunto Movestick Mini).
I’d agree that the 2S sounds like the best overall budget-friendly option minus wireless transmission. You could look at the Fenix2, which does have wireless transmission however. As does the Fenix1 – though it lacks a multisport mode but supports multiple sports.
If it were me and trying to make the budget fit, I’d probably skip the wireless piece and go with the 2S for $219.
thanks for your huge commitment. I really enjoy reading your blog, advices , …
This is an incredible benefit for the whole community.
But there is one topic I would like you to go a little bit more into detail.
What about the accuracy issues of FR220/620.
These have been mentioned by other users several times (here as well as at garmin’s forum) without really provoking any comments from your side (at least I was not able to find).
What’s your experience on that? Is GPS accuracy comparable to 610, Ambit, …? Not only with regards to the distance but also to the course of the road? If so, are all guys complaining just unlucky fellows (and there might be a problem with one batch)?
I’d highly appreciate your input; going to buy my first GPS and there is no other device meeting all my requirements (although not high).
I’ve responded a number of times to them, but it’s pretty simple: I just don’t see accuracy issues on my units (mine or my wife’s). I post the vast majority of my runs to Strava, which shows the units. Also have posted some of my wife’s – including her Boston Marathon – all showing quite good.
I think that when you start talking the volume of number of any product, your going to get the occasional lemon. Even if you look at a consumer device failure rate in the mid-low single-digit numbers (very good actually be it an iPhone or a TV), that’s still a number of people. And since only people who have problems ever post about it, that’s all you see.
Thanks again. It was not clear to me, whether some single units are affected (and of course I agree on acceptable failure rates) or the whole FR220/620 series (since some guys had the same issue after replacing the 220/620).
I am currently in the market for a triathlon GPS watch. Ive narrowed it down to either Garmin Forerunner 310XT or Suunto Ambit2 S. Do you prefer one over the other? (Ambit2 S is about $30 more than the 310XT).
The 310xt is a stalwart tri watch, but the features and packaging of the Ambit2S are a step up. Even if the 310xt has all the features that you want, and you don’t mind wearing a laptop on your wrist- every morning when the Ambit finds GPS satellites in 3 seconds, and you never, ever need to wait for it… even if you’ve flown 1000miles, even if you’re already moving… you’ll be glad you spent the extra $30. Pre-loading of satellite data has really made all the new watches so much quicker- it’s a real pleasure.
Did you find Suunto coming out with the new Aambit3 line a bit of surprise?
I remember you writing earlier that the watches that are on the market now is it for the year. Suunto’s move with their whole new lineup seems as though they were keeping their cards close to their chest.
I’m thinking of replacing my Garmin HR monitor with a RHYTHM+ but noticed in here you only mention it for running. Has it also become your go-to HR monitor for cycling or do you have something else you prefer?
Rainmaker need help! Between two watches – tom tom cardio or garmin 220?? Like the built in heart rate monitor of the cardio but dislike the look of it and not sure about the online platform.Garmin 220 looks more professional…online platform looks solid…negative is no built in hr…leaning towards garmin. HELP!
Im a new runner….want to train for half marathon distance as new target…both outdoors and indoors training (treadmill) – help me decide!
Thanks.
I think it really comes down to the heart rate sensor or not. If you want built-in HR, go with the TomTom, else, I’d recommend the FR220 as a good mid-range watch. That said, the TomTom Runner (basic model), is still very solid, especially at $130ish these days.
Above you note that this may not be the best time to purchase an indoor trainer. Do you have any insight as to what may be released after Eurobike? I was looking at the Kickr to begin doing most training indoor so that I get hit metrics and eliminate variable like stop lights, cars, pedestrians, etc….
The two major shows are Eurobike and Interbike (separated by two weeks). Companies would announce new products at those shows, as they typically do each year. But I don’t generally post about things that are unannounced. Sorry!
Not wanting a chest HR strap and based on the reviews, I’ve decided to pair the Scosche Rhythm+ with the Suunto Ambit2 for trail/mountain running, which both should be good for 8hrs on a trail with 1s GPS logging. Without the capacity for a firmware update, will the Rhythm+ need replacing in the short term? Would anyone have gone a different direction for the combination of products?
In general they all have more features than the running-only watches, and there is rarely a case where a running-only watch has something a multisport one doesn’t. Purely a size thing in most cases.
Garmin has dropped Auto Lap by Position from all new models? FR610 has it but FR220 and FR620 doesnt have that feature anymore. Will it make returns from new software updates or is it gone for good?
I do some circuit riding and Auto Lap everytime i pass same place would be ideal.
Thank you for your excellent reviews!!! I am new to sports watches and have nothing to compare anything to and the market is over run with options. I am a gig rower and need a watch to monitor speed and distance precicely and must be waterproof. HRM would be nice. Do any of the mainstream watches measure in Knots? I have been looking at 310xt, Polar RC3x, Navrun 500, Suunto 2R. My budget is not big purely as this is my first watch but I want a good one and now I am confused :/ Any thoughts please?
Unfortunately I haven’t seen any of the major running/cycling devices do that. One option would be the Garmin Quatix, but that’s a bit more expensive than the models you listed above – and doesn’t really get you all the fitness features you wanted.
Another option would be to get a waterproof case/mount for your phone, and then just pair a Bluetooth Smart heart rate strap and an app that has knots. Not as clean as a watch, but certainly functional (and likely cheaper).
Ahh yes, brilliant suggestion. And indeed, there are a ton of Knots apps available for the Suunto Ambit series, here’s the most popular: link to movescount.com
Given that, I’d say that’s your best bet. The Ambit2 S is on sale for $219 these days, making it pretty much one of the best deals out there and perfect for your use.
I am looking for the best watch for multiple activities. I run and mountain bike and do adventure racing (12-24 hour races) so I need a watch with great battery. I have a very very petite wrist and cannot find something that will work for that. I used to have the Garmin 110 strictly for running but the battery life will not do for adventure races. I tried the Suunto Ambit 2 and even on the smallest band setting it was still very large on me.
Any recommendation would be great. Thank you
That’s honestly a pretty tough nugget. There are virtually no slim/small watches that go about 10 hours of battery life. Realistically you’re either looking at the Suunto Ambit series, the Fenix2, or the Garmin FR310XT/910XT (for less than 20 hours).
I’m very interested in adding the Tate Labs Bar Fly to my P3. I currently have a Garmin 910xt and I have read lots of reports of people losing them during the swim due to a failure of the quick release. Any thoughts on this and do you know if Garmin has planned on changing the quick release mechanism?
I know I’m probably being paranoid but I just don’t want to chance losing a $400 hrm. Thanks.
I wouldn’t expect a change to the FR910XT quick release kit at this point. That said, the best protection policy is to simply put the unit slightly under the edge of your wetsuit sleeve – that helps quite a bit (though does reduce visibility). Of course, that also doesn’t work in scenarios where a wetsuit isn’t used.
Amazing blog and 2014 Summer Gear recommendations! I live in Ecuador, South America and recently bought the TomTom Multisport Cardio, thanks to your review. I was a bit disappointed because it took ages to get GPS signal and the watch would many times freeze. It was pretty frustrating to get mentally prepped for a quick 5k and have to fiddle around for over 20 minutes to get the watch working. I’ve returned it for a new one, however became inclined on the Garmin 620. The fact that it doesn’t have an optical HRM kills me, but I like the aesthetics of that watch better (narrower strap, blue/black better than red/black, charging cradle is much better than TomTom’s design).
I really want to give the TomTom MultiSport another try, but would like to know what your recommendation is?
Great blog. I have followed your reviews off and on when needing new products several times over the years. quick question for you. My current polar heart rate strap is not functioning properly again after 6 months or so. drops/spikes/etc. I have been scouring the web for something else to try. I am a cyclist and simply would like a strap/transmitter that will get my heart rate to my garmin 500 consistently/accurately without drops and false readings. I was looking to try the wahoo or 4iiii but noticed your review of the optical scoshe armband. If you were only cycling given your experience with these products which would be your go to strap/transmitter? appreciate your insight and again great site. thanks
Great website and very helpful reviews. My challenge is that many of the GPS fitness watches have way too many feature. I use my GPS primarily for open water swims and typically wear the unit under my cap. I picked up a 910xt during a summer sale at REI and took advantage of the rebate as well. I liked the 910 and used it for about four weeks before it stopped charging. I cleaned the terminals and did a hard reset without success. I had to send it back to REI. As an alternative, I took a look at the Fenix 2 but found the display hard to read without my glasses plus it had way too many features and settings that I will never use. I am looking to replace the defective 910xt. I am not a triathlete and no longer run due to knee issues. My primary cardiovascular exercise is swimming with some strength work. I also do some long walks with trekking poles to keep my legs ready for hiking and backpacking. will never use most of the features of the tri/multisport watches. I am looking primarily for a watch to accurately measure swim and walk distances.
Since I wore the 910 under my cap, the openwater swim metrics were irrelevant to me. I tried it in the pool a few times but, to be honest don’t see myself using the pool setting very much at all. It is not hard to track the metrics I need the “old school” way.
Here are the things that I am looking for (in rough order of importance): accurate recording of distance for open water swims and walks (worn under my cap in open water): vibrating distance alerts (to monitor distance without being able to see the unit under my cap); auto pause (so I don’t have to fiddle with the watch when we stop to wait for the group to catch up; good battery life; relatively compact size to wear under a swim cap, easy to read screen; and easy down load of swims/walks.
I am a little nervous about Garmin quality issues given my experience with the 910 and friends’ experiences with the 310 XT.
I think the thing is that at this point, it’s really not the best season to buy a triathlon watch. There’s watches that have just hit the market (i.e. Ambit3), watches that are seeing significant updates (i.e Polar V800), and likely watches from companies that are overdue for new tri watches (i.e. Garmin).
hi, could you tell me your opinion on the bontrager node 2.1 with it’s cons and pros if possible and if you know if i can review my data on my laptop with it and also recommend me other alternatives and if you think a gps computer will be better
I haven’t used the 2.1, just the older version. That said, for the 2.1 price of $139, I’d really recommend looking at the Garmin Edge 200 instead. It’s cheaper and far more functional. Also, the Node doesn’t download to your computer, whereas the Garmin Edge does.
Wow this was a lot of work, you’re THE man Ray.
This was a nice read for me and I have to say that I was envious at some points and laughing at most others. I am geeky by nature but only to some extent, and even if GPS and “advanced” training programs might be helpful or even required for some people, I think you are still missing a category.
…… Category: Best bang for the buck. (Simple use, overall, low tech, use what makes sense). …..
I had a simple Garmin watch and for a few years now I have a Suunto T6c … yes it is old and lacks most of the “new” features, but overall I would say it is a much better device than lots of the new ones recommended. I have friends with newer devices beeping, loosing GPS, rebooting, freezing, and basically giving them pain.
So the real question is why ! … Why would I go through the pain of getting an intelligent device ? Why would I recharge the watch every day ? Why do I need to connect to Strava on every run ? Why is GPS even required ? (… add all other 1000 “why” here …)
The T6c was and still is rock solid with HR, foot pod, and bike pod. It works all the time, period. Change the battery once a year and there is nothing else to do. Well, there is but you get my point.
Using it in triathlons is simple, going for a run is a no-brainer, and swimming is … OK let’s not talk about swimming. I can even go on a camping/hiking trip and I do not need to bring a solar charger. So my question to you: What recommendations would you give to someone not willing to recharge the darn watch every day, giving enough info to keep going and getting better and is stable enough to depend on it ?
I think the thing is that people in general do want better integration and more features, and ultimately it seems clear that the market doesn’t want devices that require carrying a separate GPS pod (or dealing with a footpod). I’d disagree that for the average consumer it’s easier (or more accurate) to use a footpod. Most don’t keep it accurately calibrated, and thus over time it drifts. If you run every day and know your routes and know to routinely calibrate it on your shoes if you move it, then perhaps. But most runners I know just want to go outside, wait a few seconds for GPS and run.
People now live in a world of charging phones every day. For most runners, charging their GPS watch once a week isn’t really a big deal.
As for recommendations – honestly, it’s hard at this point. There aren’t really any new recent watches that are trending that direction (simply because it’s no longer profitable to make them).
DC Help!!
I am looking to get into the gps watch game. I am a mild runner/swimmer/athlete.
But a Big hunter hiker military guy ( also a pilot).
Totally bamboozled by Garmin vs Suunto. “Cool” guys seem to go Suunto, pushing me towards Garmin (tactic?). But I hear the Ambit3 is “better”. Whatever that means…
Help??? ;)
Casey in Alaska
Thanks so much for all you do here. I’ve learnt so much reading many of your reviews.
You seem to prefer the 620 for a running watch, but how does the Fenix 2 compare if money isn’t a consideration? ie if you wanted a watch that could handle everything, would you lose much on the running side with the Fenix 2. I notice it has many if not all of the features that the 620 has.
Or is there any issue with the F2 being a jack of all trades, master of none?
The F2’s negatives are (1) hard-to-read screen (partially fixable if Garmin would support a setting to invert the black background / white text), and as mentioned, (2) it’s heavy while running. The FR620 doesn’t support as wide a range of activities, and for me the killer is that it doesn’t talk to power meters while biking. Some day there may “the one” device for all sports, but for now one has to have many “ones.” Sigh.
First of all, thanks you so much for your review. I consider they are the best on the web and no one is even coming close to what you are doing here.
That being said, I’m looking to buy a gps watch and can’t make my mind on one. I’ve read the reviews and I’m basically looking for specific things:
10h+ battery life on GPS, altitude logging, fast gps reception, no touch screen.
I’m going to use it mainly for running, but cycling and swimming data could also be interesting to get. At first I was looking at the Tom tom watches, but I may now leaning toward garmin or suunto. I currently don’t do more than 50k for now, but want to go for more in a couple years, so I figure I get something that with better battery to kkep many years. Reading year you suggest the Ambit2 or the Fenix2.
I’m a bit afraid with the Fenix stability with all I’m am reading about watches crashing in the middle of a run. The ambit2 is a little bit pricey, but there is some deals to be found now.
Theres also the ambit3 that just came out that might worth a look….I’m not sure at all….and since it’s a 500$ investment, I just don’t want to make the wrong choice!
What would be the best pick? Maybe the 910xt would do the job..Idk…I run mostly trail, obstacle races and so on…so I need something solid as well.
Just my two cents. I was in the same situation where I needed to buy a tri watch, but couldn’t make up my mind between the Garmin 310 and Ambit 2S. After reading reviews by DC Rainmaker and others, I purchased the Ambit 2S and couldn’t be happier.
I’ve had the Ambit for about 2 months and I am happy to report that I have not had any issues. I’ve taken it out for a long run (20 miles), bike ride (30-50 miles), indoor swimming, day-long kayaking and hiking multiple times, but the watch still impresses me every time (it locks in GPS ridiculously fast). One of the best purchases I made. I cannot say this will be the case for you, but I thought I would share my experience. Also, it doesn’t look like you are wearing a laptop on your wrist, which is a huge plus!
Thanks Chris,
the thing is I’m looking to get the max bettery life I can…and it means looking to the ambit2. The thing that makes me hesitate is the price. 550 plus tax is a good amount of money. The fenix2 is more around 500 or so..still. I need to go to the store and try it on my wrist. The thing I am most concerned is the reliability…some have good experience with the fenix but I read alot of lockup problems. The ambit2 seems reliable on the other hand…but harder to find and more expensive. Thanks for your input anyway!
I’m a cyclist and kayaker looking for a unit mainly for raw data. Using a Garmin 210, but am drawn to Ambit2. What would you recomend and what would be the drawbacks of the Ambit2?
Over the FR210? No drawbacks that I can think of to be honest. I suppose a slightly less intuitive interval mode, but really, I doubt your using that anyway.
Could somebody explain too me what is happening in that picture of a pool with the ocean taking it over and the swimmers giving zero fucks that it’s happening.
I’m a fairly new runner who’s been getting by with my phone for the last 12 months. I enjoy my trail runs and have aspirations of ultras down the track. I’d also like to use the watch during Search & Rescue type operations.
I’m trying to decide between 910xt(with hrm) Fenix2(Without hrm) and 620(with hrm)
Any advice on which way I should go.
If I could get the Fenix2 with the hrm I don’t think I would be asking this question, but it’s not currently an option.
Thanks for your hard work. I am in the market for a triathlon watch, but already have a garmin edge 810 for the bike. I find it so difficult to choose, what I really want is a simple watch with good connectivity and ease of use at speed in transition. I am new to triathlon but want something that will tell me my pace and distance whilst swimming and running both indoor and outdoor and enable zone programming.
Would you suggest the fenix 2 or 910? Or perhaps more simple the Tomtom multi sport.
Hi,
thanks a lot for all the detailed descritpion on all the watches. I would like to have a piece of advice from some experienced athletes. First of all I want to say that I’ll use the watch mainly (95% of the times) for running and I don’t really know what to choose between the Garmin Forerunner 620 and the Polar V800. An other (maybe stupid question): is it better to have elevation data from the gps (as it is in the Garmin Forerunner 620) or from the pressure (as it is in the Polar V800) ? Do you have any other watch – suggestion? Any advice to choose between the Forerunner620 and Polar V800?
Thanks in advance
Thanks for the reviews. I’m starting to have issues with my Garmin 310 communicating with my computer (which I’ve been using for almost 3 years). I now want to by-pass the computer all together and load it up via my Android smartphone. Looks like I’ll be changing watches in the future.
Hello!
I’ve been reading your reviews for over a year now, and still haven’t bought a watch!
What would you recommend that is runner friendly, but does turn by turn navigation? I run half marathons, and constantly get lost on my long runs!
I don’t have a smartphone.
I really hope (someone, anyone!) Can help!
Thank you!
Honestly, none of the watches really do turn by turn navigation. Some watches (like the Fenix2/Suunto Ambit series) will do track navigation with the ability to configure waypoints (like a little pointy compass following a breadcrumb trail), but nothing like the Edge 800/810/1000 in terms of telling you to ‘Turn left on maple street’.
(Copying this message from my email) I’ve been following your blog for quite a while now and I have to say a big thank you for providing such great information that’s hard to find elsewhere online.
I am a couch potato who started running a few months ago. I have decided to keep running as a habit and invest a bit into the equipments. However, I still feel quite confused about the various gadgets that would fit my running situation. I wonder if you take a quick read of my situation below and give some quick suggestions. Thank you in advance!
I mostly run indoors on treadmills because I live in Boston and it is winter here for half of the year. When I run outside, I use Runkeeper on my iPhone to keep track of running data. I don’t mind the accuracy of my phone’s GPS: to me it is really important to know that I’ve run that day, and I don’t particularly care if my phone records a 3.5 mile run as 3.6 miles. When I run indoors, however, Runkeeper fails to work. I understand that I need to buy a foot pod. In particular, I’m looking at the miCoach Smart per your recommendation (and my iPhone supports bt smart). I’m also looking into buying a Rhythm+, so I can get more serious about improving my performance during my runs. What I couldn’t figure out from reading online reviews / forums is how easy these devices integrate with running apps on my phone. To me, it would be a big (and prohibitive) hassle if I have to log onto a website, export activity data, and load it using an App, in order for activities to be recorded. I would only find these gadgets worthwhile if they are completely hassle-free: turn them on, turn on the app, run, turn gadgets off, show run summary in the running app.
My question is: how integrated are the foot pod / HRM with various fitness / running apps on the iPhone? Would buying a running watch make my life easier (despite that I run 80% indoors, I’d be willing to pay for a watch just to stay away from hassle of manually exporting / transferring data)?
You could use the Adidas footpod with the Scosche, with the Wahoo Fitness App to record data indoors, and then simply tap the button to upload to RunKeeper – so all your data would be in the same place. Simple and easy.
Buying a watch would potentially make it cleaner not having to deal with a phone, but the accessories you’re looking for are the same.
Hi. I’m looking for a fitness tracker that a teen swim club swimmer would find useful. As it’s for a teenager and therefore prone to being lost or stolen, price is a consideration, as well as ease of use and – unfortunately – style too!
It seems fitness trackers for swimming are problematic! I’m thinking the Vivofit might be best all-around, and I gather it now tracks sleep data which is fun but not critical for this use. Linking swim workouts — regular and lengthy – to calorie counts is most important, and integrating that information with a day spent trotting around school and running too. I can’t quite tell if Vivofit will enable all this even moderately accurately? Or perhaps there is another option I have missed? Forerunner of some sort?
Thanks for your ideas. And *thank you* a million times over for this mountain of knowledgeable observations!
Thanks for all of your helpful info. But I am still overwhelmed by all of the choices for a simple GPS watch and I’m confused by some of the terminology. My son is a high school cross country runner who has been wearing my hand-me-down Garmin 405 for the last few years. After 7 years of good use, it recently died so we are looking for a replacement for him. He liked the convenience of having pace, distance and workout time on one display without having to toggle between screens, but he never really cared to use the rest of the features of the watch.
So, I have two questions for you: 1) Does the 405’s replacement, the 220 have the same type of display or does it only show the time of day with the pace & distance? 2) Is there another quality watch out there that you can recommend that offers the display he is looking for with fewer features?
Otherwise, I have seen new 405s still available for sale, is it wise to buy an older GPS even if it’s never been used? I guess that’s actually three questions. :-)
Hi there from Raleigh! I am interested in what device or smart phone app you could recommend for the following scenario. Suppose I want to run at different paces and want to know the pace right now. For example in one run I may run slow; medium; fast; sprint; and go through various patterns of these paces. Maybe slow to sprint for example or fast to medium. What device or app for smart phone can tell me how fast I am running right now? In other words the average time, distance, and speed are not as important as the speed instantaneously. Thanks, in advance, for your comments.
I am a runner and in particular focus on ultra marathon distances. I am also into trail running. I am battling to decide between the Garmin FR620 and the Suunto Ambit3. I see you have not posted an in-depth review on the ambit3 yet so I was wondering if you could help me out. Both watches cost pretty much the same here in South Africa so now I am wondering if the Suunto is a better buy because it is a multisport watch compared to the FR620. Whose to say I might not get into bi- or triathlons in the next year or so. But then again, I’m concerned that from a running perspective, I will get more out of the FR620 compared to ambit3. I do have a coach so the whole training program/interval features are not super important to me. PLEASE HELP! Thanks in advance :-)
If you are into ultra marathons, the Ambit 2 or 3 will both have some key features that the 620 doesn’t have. specifically a long battery life and navigation. I’d think this would be a pretty easy decision. You might want to check out the Fenix 2 as a comparable ‘ultra’ product to the Ambits.
For me the interval features on the 620 became even more important with coach…So much easier to do all the Interval workouts without going to a track all the time.
I’m looking at improving my fitness by running on the beach and swimming in a pool. Soccer is my sport and living in Australia, it is now the “off season”. Never owned a GPS HRM before, but love the idea. I like the look of the TomTom Multi-Sport Cardio, but am i buying something that is too much $$$. Basically, i really just want to see if my fitness is improving and what my heart rate should be at for best performance. I’m a Type 1 diabetic so i really want to get the best from my workout sessions…. What would you recommend ?
It would really depend on how much you personally valued not wearing a HR strap (Cardio), or alternatively, how much you valued the cycling speed/cadence sensor and/or indoor swimming lap counting functionality.
If you’re more of a runner, then definitely M400. If not though, then the Multisport from TomTom may be better with more specific bike/run sensor and tracking functionality.
Hi!
I have Garmin 910XT. I would like to monitorize my heart rate while swimming indoor. 910XT does not support HR while swimming but it has a lot of info. How would be the better method por HR monitorizing in the swimmingpool? Even if I have to use 2 devices, 910XT and other.
Thanks a lot.
I am looking for a waterproof GPS watch & activity monitor. I walk and swim (lap pools, indoors and outdoors), and want something that can count my swim laps, calculate walking distance, and also be a daily activity monitor.
I have not been able to find one device that covers all the bases.
No worries. Typically +1 means “I’m interested/agree too”, whereas bump means “Please give me an answer because I don’t yet have one and I’ve waited too long.” :)
Just a little bit, they’ve said they should get me a unit ahead of launch. At this point I’ll wait until I have hands-on with a unit. I’ll be looking heavily at how accurate the sensor is during exercise, which is an area they talk about addressing in Peak.
Do you have any HR monitor suggestion without integrated GPS? I would prefer to have a separate GPS unit, like with the Polar RCX3/RCX5, but they are almost out of line products. Actually, I have a RCX5 and had some problems with it, so I’m looking for a a new HRM.
Does anyone know of a GPS Running watch with a virtual partner mode and foot pod cadence that Does Not require a connection to the internet in order to download the gps timing/position data. When I’m away from home I very oftern don’t have access to the internet and still want to view the data. I also wan’t the ability to select which activities to upload onto the web. I currently use a Garmin Forerunner 305 but the battery life lets me down. Thanks
None of them require the internet to setup virtual partner. And none of the Garmin’s require the internet to view GPS tracks afterwards. You could use any of the Garmin devices with something like Sport Tracks to view offline.
Although I haven’t tested this, I believe the 910XT + Garmin Express requires internet access to load tracks from the watch. (The documentation says that fit file directory only gets populated after a successful upload to Garmin Connect.) However, you could still use Ant Agent with the 910XT. So Ray’s comment is still correct, but you might need to be selective in your software.
I had been waiting for your Fall trainer report but I just relocated to a remote part of Washington state and my weekday riding has come to a crashing stop so I’d like to get started on a trainer. Any chance you could let me know if the Kickr is still going to be your top high end recommendation?
I’m looking for my first watch and i have a questions.
– “ANT+” or “bluetooth smart” which one should I take?
I doubt between the garminFR920Xt, Polar V800 and Suunto ambit3 peak.
Hi there,
Thanks for a great review. One question, do you know if any of these running/multisport gps watches support multiple users? I’d like to share mine with my wife.
I know you are about to publish your fall recommendations, but do you know yet if the Wahoo Blue SC is both bluetooth low energy and ANT+ compatible yet? You mentioned that they were looking into it, but I am not finding anything on their site except the following note on the Blue SC site: “Dual-Technology: Both ANT+ and BLE capabilities allow it to connect to most smartphones and GPS bike computers simultaneously or separately”.
Since there is nothing else about it, and no external information, I didn’t know if you might know yet or know who to ask. I have put out a request to Wahoo for more info and if I have anything I can offer I will let you know!
Yup, they started shipping the new dual one last week to folks. The site is, as you noted, very slim on details, but fear not – all existing BlueSC v1 stock is now gone (they were selling it out first). So you’ll get the new dual version (mine just arrived on Friday).
I’m having trouble finding a lower or midrange GPS watch that also has interval training options (Basically, a timer). I have seen a product called gymboss which is reasonably priced yet my first choice is a product that is an “all in one” Any suggestions? Do you have any experience with the Gymboss?
Hi Ray,
Thanks for writing all these very interesting articles!
I’m waiting impatiently for your fall recommendations on Tri/hike/mulitsports watches (920xt vs. Ambit3), do you know when you will be able to publish it?
It would be post FR920XT In-Depth Review. I traditionally always have it out just before Thanksgiving in the US, so people can take advantage of various sale events that occur that weekend as part of Black Friday.
thanks for your quick answer!
So I’ve a new question: when will you publish your 920 in-depth review?!( I will have to make the choice between these watches in about a week…)
I’m a mature female who’s never owned a running watch and is a technology laggard. I’ve signed up for 3 half marathons. I’m going to train by walking 12 weeks, then running 12 weeks before the first event. What would you recommend as the best low-tech, supportive electronics to keep me on task and aware of my progress as I train for these events? I’m doing this for health improvement and finishing three races in four weeks.
This must seem unbelievable but…..I’m stuck between two categories of HRM.
First of all I don’t own a smart phone and don’t plan of getting one. Second, I have no interested in gps functionality.
What I want is a HRM with up to 24 hours of battery life and a continuous HR read-out as opposed to average and max/min per lap. Connectivity to my computer with graphic display and training diary is “almost” a must.
It seems as though I’m between a rock and a hard place and have yet to find what I’m looking for.
I do own a Polar RS300x, which has all of what I want with an important exception: no continuous HR recording for graphic analysis. I don’t mind having the un-used capability of say, the FR 220 but it seems as though the mid-range and better units always have battery life too limited for my wants (endurance speed-hiking).
Can run the unit with GPS off and HRM working and then get up to 24 hours life? Or, is there a model I haven’t looked at yet?
If you can still get hold of one then a Garmin FR60 or FR70 may well do the job. The battery life is roughly a year (CR2032) but obviously would be reduced if you were recording 24/7. The only thing I don’t know is what the longest individual workout it can record is…
After looking up the review here and the specs I would leap at the FR70 IF I knew it would display, post-download on my computer, continuous (or near continuous) HR data.
Thanks!
I’m in Canada and when I click the Amazon link it takes me to Amazon.ca but I always shop at Amazon.com, which is a lot cheaper usually. Got a way through that?
My first HRM cost me about $100 (20 years ago) and all it did was display you your HR, nothing else!
Hi!
I have Garmin 910XT. I would like to monitorize my heart rate while swimming indoor. 910XT does not support HR while swimming but it has a lot of info. How would be the better method por HR monitorizing in the swimmingpool? Even if I have to use 2 devices, 910XT and other.
Thanks a lot.
There isn’t really a good solution there at the moment. You’d have to wear a second device – such as the Polar V800, and then you’d have to merge those files together in some 3rd party (such as Sport Tracks or Training Peaks).
Some have however reported doing so with the Wahoo TICKR X strap, which would be cheaper. Then exporting the data from the Wahoo App before manually merging it at 3rd party sites.
I want to buy my first multisport watch, the garmin920xt or the suunto ambit3 peak.
The big difference is ant+ / bluetooth smart. I like the Ambit3 but after some research i think it is better to buy the garmin because the ANT+ sensor. I hope to get some advice here.
I started running/power walking 3-4 days a week back in mid June. I carry my phone for music & endomondo. I am running my first half marathon in 2 weeks. My husband bought me the Garmin vivosmart 2 weeks ago. I am planning to return it. It is not consisitent with notifications and always under calculates distance by at least 1 mile. I am considering the Sony smartwatch 3 or possibly waiting for the Fitbit surge. Any thoughts on what to choose?
Absolutely brilliant reviews!!
I “m 62 and running and biking after a bit of a layoff. Having a few problems with my legs in running although recently completed Great North Run here in Uk. Looking for better speed running and spotted the Garmin FR 920 xt arriving in uk soon. Do you think the information it provides for self analysis would be usefull as my own personal trainer or am I wasting my £400 + on a whim. I don’t need the swimming stuff or the altimeter but my vision is not the best so big numbers, colour and vibration alerts may help me say yes. What do you think.
Kind regards
Geoff
It’s definitely a solid watch, though it might also be a bit overkill too. I’ll have my review up later this week, or, in the meantime you can read about it in my preview post here: link to dcrainmaker.com
I have a question though which I’m not sure is covered anywhere and wondering if anyone can recommend a product that does this….
Are there any GPS watches that will give you an expected finishing time in a race? I don’t mean a race predictor that uses historic VO2 max data, I mean one that basically says “at your current pace you will finish this [10km] in [26m 32s] or at [1409hrs]” – does such a watch exist?!
The Magellan Switch does exactly this actually, though, I’m not sure I’d recommend that at this point. It’s a bit older.
On the flip side – all of the Garmin’s have the Virtual Partner, which will tell you how far off your pace you are. So not quite the same, but sorta similiar.
I have read your reviews on gps watches. I just run but 3-4 months a year its indoors on a track due to snow. I cant decide between tom tom runner or the garmin forerunner 15 w/footpod or the garmin 220. I don’t care about heart rate just distance, time and pace and to download to runkeeper to track with friends. On reviews they all sound good. Help me decide.
I recently saw the Jawbone Up24 and loved the thought of a sleep monitor and activity tracker, but without HR, a display nor mapping, I don’t see the benefit over a phone… Have I missed something?
I’d like to ramp up the cycling and start swimming again to compliment the running, so figured the Garmin 910XT would be a good start to best monitor activity, with the opportunity to expand with a HR wrist monitor etc etc… Whilst ensuring my initial investment wasn’t a waste.
I agree with you completely on the Jawbone options. I just don’t get it. I know that the Tech blogs love to fawn over it, but from a practical standpoint it just doesn’t make a lot of sense to me. And all of the ‘data analytics’ pieces everyone talks about are basically there for other units too.
I have just started doing half and full marathons. I am looking for a good watch that manages runs, time, etc. Really not techno smart but can pick up quickly. Looking for a really good quality watch and price does not really factor into it. Any advice/direction?
I, in a similar place to you Holly, but I’m cycling too. The Gar,in’s just seem to lead in this space… The 910XT seems a good choice but I’m really put off by how old it is.
So, between the Fenix 2 and Tom Tom Cardio… I’d like to start measuring my HR – never done this before – is an Optical HR monitor a). Accurate and B). Worth choosing the Tom Tom over a Fenix 2 bundle (I.e. With HR band included? I feel an entry on the xmas list coming but I’m totally confused.
I’d look at the FR920XT over the Fenix2 these days. As for the TomTom Cardio, I found the HR accuracy for me. Some might differ, but generally I get good feedback there.
Hey,
I’m looking to purchase my first GPS watch for running. My local store has the 610 with HRM on sale for $20 less than the 220 with HRM. The 620 is rated over the 220 here but the 610 is a little older. Any suggestions for a newbie?
Like earlier posts, I run, cycle and have just started swimming…
Saw the 920, and liked that it had everything, however, I’m pretty slight (6.5″ wrist) and I’m pretty sure I would look ridiculous with this on (I’d want something to always wear)?
I want something accurate for tracking where I’ve been.
I love the advanced metrics Garmin do with the HRM, which will help me improve my running form.
I’d like it to pick up cadence & speed from my bike,
If I can get swimming metrics, so much the better!
But I want to wear it as a watch too, so, for £400, would like to not look a clown?
You should also check out the Polar V800. It just got indoor swim metrics this past week. It’s not as advanced overall as the FR920XT, but, for many it’s pretty solid.
I’d like an opinion from the community. I’m new to running, and just trying to get active again. I want to reward myself for finishing a C25K by getting a watch that will last me many years. I don’t have much money, but am willing to buy the best if it makes sense to do so. I love hiking, which is why I am choosing running as a sport. I love swimming, so foresee getting into it as a sport as well, but not yet. I love cycling, but can’t imagine doing it as a sport for a long time (I move a lot but don’t actually have much money).
1. So, would you all recommend getting a Fenix 2, something cheaper since I’m only a beginner, or wait for manufacturers to find a better balance with technology? It’s no rush to buy it, but it sure would be nice to have something to train for a 10k with.
2. What do you feel would be most important for a beginner to track? HR, distance, speed, etc.?
Thanks everyone!
PS
Ray, thank you for sharing your passion with us.
• Heart Rate; I’m not convinced this is so important. Our bodies are pretty good at telling us what zone we are in. I’d prefer an optical one of course, but neither the Ambit 3 nor the Fenix 2 have them.
• Heart rate in pool; if the strap is nearly useless in a pool, then it’s pointless.
• Accelerometer or other non pod based tracking for running on a treadmill.
• Activity tracker; only as a bonus, this sounds like it could help me in the beginning to track calories/steps, etc. I can’t imagine using it for years on end though. Fenix doesn’t do this, and I’m not clear how the Ambit does.
• Navigation; I don’t really understand the benefit of hiking or running with navigation that doesn’t have a screen.
• GPS lock; I need this to be great because my phone is so bad that I am afraid to pay a lot of money for a unit that is as bad as my phone. That said, satellite coverage is not ideal outside my door.
• BAROMETRIC altitude; this would be cool but I can’t imagine actually needing such data for training, although I could be wrong.
I can’t think of anything more advanced that I need. I would appreciate recommendations on features for a beginner not mentioned, or ones that are completely unnecessary for me.
I swim, bike and run. Then, I come here and write about my adventures. It’s as simple as that. Most of the time. If you’re new around these parts, here’s the long version of my story.
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You probably stumbled upon here looking for a review of a sports gadget. If you’re trying to decide which unit to buy – check out my in-depth reviews section. Some reviews are over 60 pages long when printed out, with hundreds of photos! I aim to leave no stone unturned.
I travel a fair bit, both for work and for fun. Here’s a bunch of random trip reports and daily trip-logs that I’ve put together and posted. I’ve sorted it all by world geography, in an attempt to make it easy to figure out where I’ve been.
The most common question I receive outside of the “what’s the best GPS watch for me” variant, are photography-esq based. So in efforts to combat the amount of emails I need to sort through on a daily basis, I’ve complied this “My Photography Gear” post for your curious minds (including drones & action cams!)! It’s a nice break from the day-to-day sports-tech talk, and I hope you get something out of it!
Many readers stumble into my website in search of information on the latest and greatest sports tech products. But at the end of the day, you might just be wondering “What does Ray use when not testing new products?”. So here is the most up to date list of products I like and fit the bill for me and my training needs best! DC Rainmaker 2024 swim, bike, run, and general gear list. But wait, are you a female and feel like these things might not apply to you? If that’s the case (but certainly not saying my choices aren’t good for women), and you just want to see a different gear junkies “picks”, check out The Girl’s Gear Guide too.
Once again, nice work. Thanks for all the great reviews.
Thanks for the all the great reviews! I think I’ve read them all! Have you had a chance to spend much time with the Jawbone UP24? I’m looking to purchase a wrist-based activity tracker in the near future, and I think I would like the sleep tracking ability of the Jawbone. But, how does it compare to units like the Polar Loop (the other unit I’m looking at potentially buying) in terms of durability/waterproofing/general “just works” factor? I actually like the fact that it doesn’t look like a watch because I’ve spent too much money on my watches already that I wear to work and am not looking for something to replace those.
Thanks for any help you can offer and keep up the great work on the reviews!
John
Yup, actually wearing it right now. It works well in terms of tracking steps, but it lacks the HR functionality like the Polar Loop has. Further, the thing that I still don’t like about it is that it doesn’t have a display. So I always have to check my phone to see where my progress is.
I am a long time Garmin Vivofit and Nike Fuelband user. My wife uses the Jawbone UP24. I for one think the UP is great. Even with the always on Vivofit screen after a week or two of “new toy” fiddling the reality is I don’t check it compulsively, perhaps review at the end of the day… and that I could certainly do on the phone. Since I *don’t* want to wear a bracelet AND a watch I choose the Vivofit but for many women and those men who want to wear a bracelet with/without a separate watch the UP24 is a great choice. It by far is the best looking wearable and in terms of waterproofing it is like the Nike & Fitbits… ok to get wet/shower/etc. but not full immersion like swimming or a bathtub… for that you need the Polar or Garmin.
If you are willing to trade the screen for a more bracelet like form factor and don’t mind removing it for swimming the UP24 is a great choice with one of the nicest apps of any wearable around.
I never understood the appeal of wrist-based trackers… from the purely aesthetic perspective. At worst a bit like the old casio calculator watches from 30 years ago. At best a soulless hippy-dippy armwrap thingy. Must be just me with the $billions they are selling.
My The Girl puts her fitbit in her pocket and saves the wrists for the blingiddybling. On reflection I might save some money with a pair of jawbones, hot glue gun and pack of craft store rhinestones. Do you think she’d notice? XD
Some look ok, but yep… none have ever been an aesthetic win, in particular if you like to change it out day to day. Wrist based trackers are popular for two reasons…
1. You are wearing them and won’t forget to switch them when you change clothes etc. like with the older style fitbits that clip to or go in clothing. (This is my favorite reason)
2. If they have a screen you have easy access to quickly check your progress without having to pull them out etc.
Thank you both for your advice! I actually just ordered by Jawbone UP24 today (through your link to Amazon) because I think that I will like the data that it produces around sleep, and I like the overall look of the app. I look forward to your review of it because you always inform me about features that I didn’t know existed in my devices.
Also, how did your tv spot go? Did you ever post a link to the video?
Enjoy John, and thanks for the support!
Yup, the link/video for the TV segment this morning is all here: link to dcrainmaker.com
Nice work and thanks for such a great website. One suggestion: why don’t you put in the article the links for your reviews of the products mentioned? I believe it would make sense for your readers.
Hi Luciano-
The ‘More info’ button in the little table at the end of each section lists the In-Depth review. But, that’s probably a good idea to add a second set of links.
Curious why Garmin Edge 1000 wasn’t mentioned. Too expensive and too many bugs? Somehow I thought in Garmin’s plans 1000 will replace 800 and 810.
Yup, too buggy.
Keep in mind, these are ‘My’ recommendations. I simply wouldn’t recommend the Edge 1000 today to anyone. Perhaps in a month, perhaps in 6 months – but not today.
The Edge 810 is hardly bug free either :|
It’s pretty stable for me (whereas the Edge 1000 was…well…not so much). Hopefully the Edge 1000 improves. There’s a new firmware drop yesterday which I’ve been using about 10 days now, and that’s definitely helped in some areas (but not all).
This is the one area where I wish that you (or someone) could do better Ray…although I don’t think there’s any good way to do so. For example I’m on my 3rd garmin 510 and it’s a complete hunk of junk. All 3 have had problems combining the wheel speed sensor with GPS data and 2 of the 3 have had memory corruption. I’m sure that reliability testing just isn’t feasible for you personally (seemingly it’s not something that garmin can handle either)… but have you considered some sort of user rating system? I know those aren’t perfect either, but I think they might fill an in part of the whole picture of a product that isn’t currently available anywhere out there (besides maybe amazon ratings).
Yeah, I’ve pondered something like that, but it’s tough because it always because the ‘forum’ problem. Which is that only unhappy people vocalize being unhappy with a product, whereas happy people don’t generally say anything.
IMHO you must be more careful with these kind of posts since it drives your readers towards Garmin for most if not all segments. Part of it is perceptual since you use Garmin products as reference while benchmarking others. Hope you realize the impact of these posts, both for Garmin and the others.
I call it like it is, and give recommendations like I would to family. If Garmin is the best in that segment – than so be it. The simple reality is that as of today, Garmin is generally making the best products in most segments. Not all of course, which is why you see variance. But I think it’s silly to point someone to a more expensive product with less features just to try and add diversity. I know some magazines do that, but not really the way I roll.
Hi Ray, just to counter the above post, I find it clear you’re unbiased when comparing to last year – for instance the Fenix lost out to the Ambit because at that time it was not up to scratch. You make these things pretty clear in your posts so I’d say carry on as you are, I don’t think anyone who’s read more than a couple of posts sees any bias at all.
And look at the comments on the Edge 1000…
I suspect Ray uses innovation as the benchmark and not Garmin. The V800 is the first to combine everything in one, so that it sets a standard at one of the spectrum just as the FR15 does on the other end. That does not mean the V800 must be a recommended item.
Ray’s formula for what he does here is to give you and I an unbiased review, the final decision is purely up to us.
@Ray – keep up the good work. The sports tech world owes you a lot and dare I say mere mortals like me too.
“I call it like it is, and give recommendations like I would to family”
I feel like one of the family! Thanks for what you do!
“IMHO you must be more careful with these kind of posts since it drives your readers towards Garmin for most if not all segments. Part of it is perceptual since you use Garmin products as reference while benchmarking others. Hope you realize the impact of these posts, both for Garmin and the others.”
Uhh… you realize this are his recommendations right? He thinks garmin has the best product in terms of price/features/usability in each of the categories. For him to list brand Y or brand Z just to list them means he’s not doing his proper recommendation. Obviously, you can make your own choice, but these are his preferences.
That’s why the title of this article is:
********My******** Summer 2014 Sports Gadget Recommendations
Harmless… if the Garmin products are superior or set the standard then well, they should win. The only part of any of this that makes me sad is while I agree with MANY of Ray’s choices, including the Garmin’s… I still feel the entire sports market segment is being subjected to overly pricy buggy devices and Garmin is the poster child. It reminds me of smartphones in 2006… the Palm Treos and Blackberrys had great “features” but then in 2007 a new phone from Apple came along that had the same or less features but showed the entire market just what junk they were peddling.
Who knows, we may see history repeat itself. If Apple does release an iWatch and it’s good, they may disrupt this market too.
I confess I am biased, I had two broken G620 and to make things worse a faulty G510 als well. Bad luck maybe… Sorry I wont recommend Garmin to my family…
From feature perspective I really wanted to like 620, I agree on this winner.
Hi Ray, have you ever considered the garmin etrex series for cycling (with turn by turn navigation, cadence and speed and HRM), and running as well (maybe a bit bulky, but if you have a camelback, you won’t notice them, and can change the batteries mid-run) ? I have one (etrex 30) and a forerunner 405 and I tend to use both for long runs in places I don’t know and biking… etrex are much cheaper too… Thanks
good point here!
I also have eTrex30 myself and always mount it on my bikes. Mainly for recording/navigating purposes (not so much for HR or any cadence/power sensors), but still it’s very handfull. Big clear display, easy buttons, compass, pretty solid open maps.
Also recently I moved from road running towards trail running and noticed on my old FR305 few problems with altitude and general signal strength when in mountains (specially in deep and narrow canyons). So when running with camelback, I just throw in eTrex (still with FR305 on my wrist) for recording purposes – it’s just more accurate and does not loose signal that easy. With some decent mount, it could be even attatched somewhere outside of my backpack and serve as the only unit during the run.
The biggest issue for me is missing simple start/stop activity functionality.
cheers,Adam
I haven’t played with the eTrex series much (or many of the other ‘Outdoor’ units). I do have a Monterra that I play with sparingly, but that’s more of a proof of concept platform in my mind (it’s Android).
G’day Ray. Are you going to be doing a review of the Shimano sport camera? It was released earlier this year, but is only just becoming widely available. Seems like a solid alternative to GoPro and Garmin VIRB and quite a bit smaller. I realise there is only one of you and many products coming out all the time.
I’m hoping to. Shimano has been really tough to get ahold of, but as you noted, just yesterday retailers started getting notifications about availability. So I’m hoping to be able to get hands-on a unit soon!
Really? There’s really only one DC Rainmaker? There’s not a whole team of Rays behind the scenes cranking out this stuff? :-)
I know, I need more me’s. Mini-me’s.
And by ‘more’, I mean…any at all.
Can I volunteer?
Perhaps…I’m trying to figure out some opportunities/options down the road.
Hi Ray – thanks for the great summary. Do you know where we can buy the Scosche RHYTHM+ in France ?
Scosche does not deliver to France – cant find it on Amazon either or anywhere ?
Any other idea ? I really had enough of chest straps :)
Thanks for all
Hmm, I don’t know when they are shipping to France. Though, Clever Training can probably help you out there. ;)
Thanks Ray!
Have successfully ordered one On Clever Training :)
Didn’t mention that I live in Italy!
Thanks – had not realized they shipped to Europe.
Done, ordered.
They need to open a warehouse in Europe so we can save on shipping costs :)
Once again you manage somehow to put garmin above all in all categories. Really? Garmin Vivofit? Fenix2 with Suunto Ambit2 ….S!!!! ??? Don’t forget you made a comparisson tool!
In general, they make the most competitive products in those categories. Again, this isn’t a “let’s be nice and make sure I include everyone in the industry post”. Further, it’s not an industry overview. It’s what I’d recommend to friends, family, and readers post.
As for the Fenix2 with Ambit2S – absolutely. Why should I pay an extra $100+ for the Ambit2 regular over the Fenix2 (or even Fenix1)? Seriously? If the Ambit2 was the same price – sure. But again, prices are a massive part of it.
There’s a great reason why you’d pay $100 more for the Ambit2 over Fenix2: The Fenix is still a complete mess of a product, with glitches, freezes, crashes, and sometimes just failure to function. Constantly, even with the latest update. I got mine right after it was released, and it’s been nothing but a disaster. So bad in fact that Garmin replaced it with a new one, and this new one has AT LEAST four different freezes, drops, or completely nonsensical behavior each week. This happens more often on longer e.g. 3+ hour runs, so most people doing a daily 5 miler will never notice. But for an ultra/trail runner, the Fenix2 remains a complete disaster. Most embarrassing, worst use of $400 I’ve ever spent.
Anyone on the fence about that should go over to the Garmin forums and read through the extensive list of glitches and freezes and screwups of this device. Then read the user frustration as Garmin remains basically useless on the matter. Sure, they update the software constantly. But the product has yet to really work.
Obviously you’ve had a bad experience with your Fenix 2, but that’s not to say everyone has. Remember, people complain about the bad more than the good so you have to take the forums w/ a grain of salt.
I’ve had my Fenix 2 since the beginning and am more than happy with it. The updates add new features all the time and I don’t have the freezes that you’ve experienced. I highly recommend the Fenix 2.
The Suunto forums are just NOT littered with function complaints like the Garmin forums. The Ambit2 is remarkably, possibly perfectly- stable.
In fact – I just did a search for the word “freeze” on a suunto forum, and the only times it came up were in relationship to Garmin products.
and a 2S for $219? wow. I’d agree with Ray on the regular pricing. $500, and $600 for a Sapphire is a bit much. But- if you can get them at competitive prices like this- they are seriously solid products.
Thanks for great reviews and recommendations.
One small note: I echo the slight surprise others have shown at recommending the Fenix 2 in the same category as the Ambit 2s or even the full Ambit 2. If price is a big factor, the Suunto devices have it sewn up, certainly in the UK (Maybe US prices are way different? It wouldn’t surprise me if there were trade tariffs on Finnish producs…free trade in the US, as in the EU, is more a rhetorical flourish than a reality!)
Ambit 2s: £207 (wiggle.co.uk)
Garmin 910XT: £245
Ambit 2 Full: £285
Fenix 2 +HRMrun £360
Granted, the Fenix 2 has the extra running data and the bluetooth. But there is a heck of a price hike to get there, especially over the Ambit 2s. I just can’t see it taking the crown in this category, even ignoring the very widespread reports of serious bugs and freezes from Fenix owners.
Yeah, in the US the order of price (without rebates/sales) is:
Ambit2S
FR910XT/Fenix2
Ambit2 (full)
It’s a pretty substantial jump ($100) from the FR910XT/Fenix2 to the full. The sales change things around, and thus as noted in the text above, do change my recommendations.
I’ve read the complaints but I absolutely love my F2. It’s an awesome multisport watch! Logged literally hundreds of miles so far (mostly running but hiking, and skiing as well) with zero crashes and only few minor bugs. My guess is there are a couple faulty units out there but that’s going to happen with any product on the market.
Awesome post Ray!
Many thanks – a very helpful summary of what’s been happening across the field. I’m currently weighing up a 910xt (£239 from amazon, similar at others, so around 30% off) or using my ageing (but working fine) 405 with a Garmin swim. Interesting to hear the 910xt might be upgraded this year… but then I probably wouldn’t want to be paying full price for a new version. Thanks again for your blog.
Always glad to see the FR220 still goin’ strong as a top pick ! :D
Sometimes I have problems with it saying I am running a 2m20s mile (or thereabouts…). Obvies I know this is not right. haha. I bought a foot pod after a few months to make sure I was getting accurate data … didn’t you post recently about the hierarchy of the foot pod vs. watch accelerometer (which reigns when there’s a discrepancy)? There was an update that changed this perhaps? Is there a way to change this manually? (sorry I just can’t seem to find the post).
Thanks !
Hi again Ray
Agree with you on the Polar V800, sadly i bought it beein a techno head. So im wondering if i should just wait it out or sell it and buy a Fenix 2 with a garmin edge 810/1000
I really think that if you’re not in dire need of a multisport watch right now, I’d really wait to see what happens later this year. That allows the Polar V800 to mature, it allows new entrants to hit the scene, and it allows us to see if said new entrants are buggy or not.
Hi Ray, firstly thanks for producing the site keep up the excellent work.
I notice hear and elsewhere that you are using the Scosche RHYTHM+ as a HRM but the FR620 as your ’daily runner’ as it where does that mean you don’t need or use the additional metrics that the HRM Run strap provides or there are other benefits of using the Scosche RHYTHM+ that outweigh losing the additional metrics? Which ones don’t you get and of those what do you actually miss? Thanks.
I won’t/don’t get the Vertical Oscillation and Ground Contact Time anymore when I use the Scosche. I still get cadence. And, some of the heart rate variability things like recovery time and VO2Max are also impacted (could be questionable data).
For me in my training efforts none of those actually provide much impact on what I do.
When you come out with a full review of the Mio Link or Rhythm+ I would love to see if you can quantify just how different things like calories burned, recovery time and VO2 max are with the loss of the some of the metrics you can only get at this time from a chest based strap. Are we talking tiny changes or is it significant if you use those metrics I wonder… I agree as much as I like Garmin’s running dynamics I don’t really use those metrics in a practical way.
Dear Ray,
Thanks for all reviews & additional info.
I’m currently running with garmin 210 (with HR). I also started swim training (as you have seen summer in the Greek seas is really awesome) and I intend to participate in 2 sprint triathlon during this summer.
After reading a lot I was just about to get a brand new 910 based 1)on its accuracy 2)on my love for analyzing numbers and basically 3)on a previous comment you said you didn’t expect a new triathlon edition this year (I believe this post was regarding 2014).
So the question is to buy:
a)a used 310 (about 180$ w/o HR) in order to re-sell it soon with low cost and then check the new version or 910
b)a new 910 (about 430$ w/o HR)
c)wait for the new version.
Also:
If I buy 310 or 910 do you suggest I should keep 210 for running or sell it (except its soft premium HR) to reduce the cost?
Do you expect a 310 replacement or a 910 replacement?
Do you have an estimation of the time for the new edition?
Thanks in advance
Since you have two tri’s this summer and since your summer is longer in Greece, I’d probaly go with the 310XT for now, and skip the indoor swim training piece.
I would then sell the FR210 if you can and just use the FR310XT for that.
Another great post, Thanks Ray!
I have on my wish list for my B-day in September the FR620, to avoid buying it just before a FR630 comes I was wondering if you have an idea when a FR630 would come? Still this year or more likely next year or even only in 2 years? How often does Garmin update their devices in general?
Thanks
FR610 was 2011, FR620 was 2013 so….
I’d agree with Tim, no chance of a FR620/FR220 replacement this year.
Glad to hear that SCOSCHE RHYTHM+ is performing as advertised, it’s on my must have list.
As usual great write up, thx Ray.
I’m still looking forward to DCR’s review of the Link….especially if it includes any firmware update info. I bought one as soon as it was released – maybe too early? I’ve been happy with mine – accurate (now that I’ve found the best place for it) and I like the form factor. The Rhythm does look interesting tho.
Do you know of any dual BT/ANT+ footpods coming down the pipe? I’d really like to be able to stop worrying about a bridge and maybe switch to a RHYTHM+, but I switch between my FR610 and iPhone apps too much in the gym to go a non-dual footpod.
Wahoo says they’ll have one by the end of the year, but I don’t have a specific timeline for it yet.
Awesome stuff!
Are you aware of any plans of making the “next generation” edge 500?
Something with more wireless capabilities and better GPS…
But still in the same size and not as bulky as all the new ones they are coming out with.
Thanks!
Shai
I don’t know, but I sure as heck hope so. Sorely needed.
I don’t need to know when my phone calls while riding, and I don’t need navigation while on the road. Which is why I and so many others only have a G500 – and a cell phone in my jersey pocket for emergencies only.
Now all I need is a COMPACT unit with all the bike & fitness functions (incl Di2!!) which can communicate to my PC etc and I will be happy – and so will many others!
Bring on the G 505, or a Mio. Do any of the manufacturers listen or are they only interested in “bigger and better” and much more expensive?
Right now I think companies are trying to fight cell phones with the larger units. I think we’ll probably see the pendulum swing back the other way by next spring (in terms of realizing that there’s a lot of cyclists that want a smaller form factor unit).
I posted this in the Garmin forums, but thought I would share here as well. I respectfully disagree with the 620 as the best in class running watch. I haven’t used as many devices as DCRainmaker, but between my 610 and 620 the 610 is a much more dependable running watch, especially if your not running in a straight line in an open field. For a best in class device you shouldn’t have to worry if you’ll get a wonky GPS track or reboot at the wrong time in your next race!
In my opinion if these issues are addressed then it would be best in class, although with almost no communication from Garmin it’s unclear if it’s even possible to address all of them:
1) GPS Accuracy (Some of my runs lose GPS signal all together, and others have really bad tracks. My 610 performs much better. See fellrnr’s analysis for a more scientific look. Many people seem to accept this as “good enough most of the time”, but I think that’s a low bar, especially when almost all other devices on the market are more accurate.)
2) Random reboots (usually not during activities thankfully, and this does seem to have improved some with recent firmware updates, but still not resolved)
3) Lack of footpod integration for more precise pace (the latest update still doesn’t give you instant pace from footpod and distance from GPS from my understanding)
4) VERY slow pace adjustments
5) Battery life (or lack there of)
6) Save screen when pausing run (Instead of keeping your hr and other metrics on the screen it asks you to save the activity. If you accidentally touch it then your activity is complete and you have to start a new one. Also, if you want to keep track of your heart rate recovery then it’s not there.)
To be honest, I’m not sure why more people don’t look at fellrnr’s reviews (again, no disrespect to DCRainmaker, I very much enjoy reading his blog). It appears that Fellrnr had his 620 replaced, and the new one is providing even worse GPS accuracy than the last (link to fellrnr.com). I’ve seen the argument that he runs the same route over and over, but how else could he accurately compare devices?
Here’s that thread link to forums.garmin.com
BTW just noticed – recovery HR – wait 2 mins on the Save/Discard screen and up it comes…
#6 – From the Save screen, you can tap the back or menu “buttons” on the bezel to get to the regular metrics screens.
@ Mike – I realize that I can push the back button, but I run in the city a lot, so I’m always getting stopped at lights and it’s pretty easy to accidentally hit save rather than back on the touch screen.
@ Tim – I may not have explained my gripe about the recovery heart rate well enough… with the 610 when I get stopped at red lights I can watch as my heart rate goes down, but with the 620 I get the save screen. I can push back to see the heart rate as Mike suggested, but then run the chance of accidentally hitting save. Plus it’s another step for something that was easier with the 610.
I think the save screen issue is pretty minor. The bad GPS and random reboots are the biggest issues in my list from my perspective.
Also, I should have said this at the beginning: Thanks for the reviews Ray! I do really enjoy reading them! I have no idea how you find the time…
Hi Dave,
I also have the reboot issue and since it sometimes happens when I reach the end of an activity, I do lose a little data too.
I’m on my 2nd unit and Garmin is considering swapping it out for a 3rd. I didn’t know about yesterday’s firmware until Ray mentioned it above, so I haven’t had a chance to try it yet.
Also, I did have an incident where the watch got itself into a state where the GPS data was ridiculously inaccurate. I had to manually power cycle it to straighten it out, but thankfully, I haven’t had problems with it since. Outside that incident, I find it measures routes I know well just as the 610 did.
The 610 certainly had issues at first, but Garmin got them straightened out much faster than this. I’m really hoping the rebooting problem is fixed eventually because otherwise, I really do like the product.
Ray, Surprised the v800 has not made it to the list! Great as a everyday watch aswell as multisport! Major advantage of being able to wear it with a suit! Which you cannot with the 910xt! Great review!
It might make the list this fall, but as of today, it’s hard to justify it making the Multisport category list when it can’t do swimming, nor a lot of other features (and cost more than others). Again, probably later this year – but not today.
Great site dude!
Do you think you will be getting a RIDEYE in to test soon?
I enjoyed your review of the 6FLY but I’m also looking for a front safety camera.
Once they start shipping I likely will. I haven’t heard from those folks individually though.
Ray, if it weren’t for the quick release system, would you say the real difference between the FR910XT and Fenix2 is the bluetooth/smartphone connectivity? I have an 810 (per your recommendation!) and very much like it, but am getting into tri’s and really want to get a tri-oriented watch.
Thanks for everything!
Yes excluding quick release, connectivity is a core difference, but so is display. On a bike the 910XT will be easier to read.
Thanks! Day to day the bluetooth will be more important to me than the visibility, so I think I’ll be ordering a Fenix2 from Clever Training soon. :)
I’m a bit surprised with the scale recommendations. There’s really nothing special about them other than they connect via Bluetooth, and have some sort of tracking software. I would think most people seriously training would be interested in body composition and not just weight. Tanita has a few cool ones. Any thought on expanding the scale category?
Well, connect via WiFi. And I’d argue that the tracking and integration with a slew of platforms helps with accountability. With 3rd party platforms they can push to everything from Training Peaks to MapMyFitness to MyFitnessPal, etc…
The problem with the Tanita scales is that they integrate with…well…nobody. And, on the body comp thing, as I’ve shown in the past, it’s not terribly accurate. They tend to be consistent for a given athlete, but not accurate: link to dcrainmaker.com
Do any of he scales actually integrate with Training Peaks? I checked withings and fitbit, and neither of them mentioned TP in their list of partners. The Training Peaks store does not offer a scale, so I assume if they aren’t pushing one, it may not exist. Or are you talking about 3rd party applications that take the data from the scale and push it to Training Peaks?
Withings does. Or rather, it did (direct connection). I haven’t quite validated it’s still good though since I changed things around last fall on my Withings account with TP.
I believe you can also do it with SyncMetrics as well (3rd party).
Hi,
I can confirm that the Withings scale connects with TP for weight and body fat.
Thanks for another great article. I am currently looking to replace a dying FR305 with something modern and this list really helps. I am still trying to figure out if I want to go for another multisport watch, or change to a FR + Edge. One question I had about fitness trackers, how do you deal with the calorie counts from the fitness tracker and using a dedicated device during a workout? Are you supposed to wear both devices, or take off the fitness tracker and run/bike/swim with the dedicated device? I use MFP so I am considering the Pulse (already have a withings scale) or the Vivofit, just not sure how to integrate them properly.
Garmin is working to have only the ‘highest quality’ device data be shown for calorie counts, so you don’t get duplicates.
Thanks!! Sounds like once that functionality is in place, then I can wear both during a workout, but until then, I should only wear the Forerunner.
Do you predict that any of the forthcoming multi-sport watches will have significant benefits over the Garmin Swim when it comes purely to pool use? I’m just getting into swimming seriously, and while I run and cycle, I don’t expect to be competing in any triathlons. I’ve got my GPS needs covered for the other activities, and while I’d like an all-in-one watch, I don’t want anything as large/expensive as the 910xt or Fenix2, unless the pool metrics are a significant improvement over the Swim. Something trim that doesn’t need regular charging sounds good, and the price is easier, but it’s now an older product.
Thanks for all your great work!
In the pool, probably not. I would like to see Garmin add a Swim Workout feature that they’ve hinted at promising for years (even the Garmin Connect site still shows it as ‘Coming Soon’), but I don’t know if such a feature will make the cut.
I was wondering about the heart rate sensors and compatibility with iPhone/bluetooth. I was debating on getting a watch (former die hard Garmin user) but have been in and out of injury for a while and about to start another course of PT and just getting by with lifting and biking and swimming. The Garmin 15 looks great but would be nice to just get something cheap for HR just for feedback purposes and effort. Go out for a bike ride with my phone in my bag and have HR on to get a gauge for effort while using Runkeeper for distance, etc. Nothing fancy. Just kind of having fun and playing before (hopefully) getting back to racing down the road. The 4iiii looks interesting but I don’t know that I need everything. Can it really connect with a footpod too? How does that work?
I’m looking for basically the fr620 but with some internal storage to put music on because I hate running with my phone. Any ideas or thoughts of when these will come out? I know there’s one out there but that it is not up to par. Thanks for the help
Paul, get the Forerunner 620 and an iPod shuffle, you’re set!
Or an Ipod Nano (last generation): very small and with bluetooth!
Agreed Sal, my recommendation of the Shuffle is part because it’s quite inexpensive and part because it clips onto a running shirt, vest or similar. I do realize that the Nano comes with a much higher entry level capacity though, but at quite a price differential as well.
I don’t expect one from Garmin anytime soon. Today you’ve got the Adidas GPS which does that quite well. I think we’ll probably see more devices pull instead from your phone for music.
As summer approaches, and marathon season approaches, I’m becoming fearful of possible freezeups on very long runs that I’ve heard about on the Fenix 2. For short runs (under 10 miles), it has performed wonderfully. Ray, any comment or personal experience you’ve had with multiple long runs or the performance of your 620? The rumors of the upcoming suunto 3 have me very intrigued, in particular in the form factor since the suunto 2 is not comfortable for me.
Outside of initial Fenix2 beta issues (pre-prod), I’ve never had any crashes on longer rides/runs with either the Fenix2 or FR620.
any plans on re-reviewing/reviewing the iphone trackers and ‘smart-ish’ watches?
i love the wahoo app, but as the magellan can’t get text notifications (from what i can tell) i use the pebble – which doesn’t talk to wahoo :-( so ismoothrun it is.
i have no gps problems with either app (sometimes i run both) and i run in a “hilly” (really sm. mountain with lots of ups and downs) and rural with shotty GPS (my tomtom takes 5+ minutes to find a GPS signal) and my iphone has not GPS issues in either app
the pebble is solid so far for what it does (keeps my phone in my pocket on the trail/road so i don’t drop it and bust a screen) (now if you have an echo around you want someone to test … i’d be happy to — techie/nerd to techie/nerd)
but i’d love for you to run a echo/pebble/whatever test and see the comparison
as well as app test (yea, i already did tests myself but others might like to know the comparisons … though if anyone wants some info i’d be happy to share what i’ve figured out .. but be warned i’m no ray … i did test, and could do a really thorough job if needed …. but my goal was to weed out the weak and stick to the strong
.. not to mention I don’t have cool stories, live in france, do triathlons, taste test cupcakes, or walk the ‘hollywood walk of fame’ on TV … i’m just a techie, nerd, ex-homeschooling now empty nest mom trying to get back in shape (or have less shape based on how you look at it) taking it one day/week/month at a time.
… plus maybe the app developers would consider adding things like recovery info, and fixing the fact that ismoothrun tracks cadence but uploads it as bike cadence (which while it’s annoying does let me know info i need) if DCRainMaker suggested it…
thanks… and great show, you were amazingly calm
I’ll be doing more activity trackers, and more smart watches as they make sense. For me, that means they have to be fairly focused on sport/fitness (versus just more of a geeky smart watch).
It’s just a balance of time really, so I tend to try and focus on the products that I hear the most requests for (+ products that personally interest me).
The Pebble watch is is really solid for me as well. I actually sold my RFLKT because the Pebble did most of what I needed (via iSmoothrun). AND I still get text/phone/email notifications and music control.
The Pebble combined with the Scosche Rythm+ on my upper arm allows my iPhone to stay in my back jersey pocket.
thanks for running with iSmoothRun!
regarding cadence, which service are you referring to, when you say it gets uploaded as “bike cadence”?
If you use TCX it should be correct, cause it’s marked as “RunCadence”..
Any idea when Garmin is going to add optical heart rate to the FR620? With cycling support, it looks like a good watch. I’d love to train with HR, but the current Garmin straps are useless to me. (No, my heart rate is not 300bpm…)
Oh, I just saw the optical HRMs; those look great! By the way, there is a missing link in the table called “‘2014 RECOMMENDATIONS: SENSORS’ COMPATIBLE”. The Rhythm+ review is said to be coming soon, but it is actually already here: link to dcrainmaker.com
Thanks, tweaked!
As for Garmin adding optical HR – I don’t expect that soon. But, I think given the way things look from other competitors (both represented here, and those with rumored plans) – Garmin certainly needs to get on it to remain competitive, especially in the lower and mid-range markets.
Hi Ray, thanks for the recommendations and reviews – very very helpful!
You mentioned that the Edge 500 is $169 but on the CT site I see it as $199. Was that changed in the past few days?
Thanks!
Sorry, that was a typo from a leftover temporary reduction that I forgot to update the database price. Fixed!
Thanks!
Ray:
You mentioned that you expect the 910XT and Ambit will likely be replaced later this year. Any comment on when the Fenix will be replaced?
TIA
I don’t know, but I don’t expect it to be this year. After-all, a new one just came out 3 months ago.
I’m surprised that you recommended the 910xt because of the quick-release mount. That’s the exact feature I’d strongly caution against. Enough people have had their 910xt spun-off during competitive open water swims to show there is a design flaw with the mount. It needs to have a locking tab that must be depressed before allowing it to be rotated and detached.
I loved having my 910xt mounted on my aerobars. It worked perfectly for 11 triathlons, then it fell in the lake during the 12th. But it probably helped my race time though, as I had $400 worth of anger to work out. It worked out for Garmin as well; I purchased another 910xt. . . sans the quick-release mount.
FR220 vs FR610. Which one would you buy (they’re in the same price range atm)?
Go with the FR220. Just my two cents. I dive into that specific comparison a few times in the comments of the FR220 review as well.
Which remote controller do you prefer? O-Synce or Garmin?
It honestly depends on which device you use. If using the Garmin, definitely go Garmin for compatibility reasons. If using the O-Synce, stick with that (I haven’t had a chance to test Garmin remote with O-Synce device).
What about navigation features is relation to running watches? To me high end running watch must have navigation, at least back2start. Looks for you navigation is no issue despite your frequent travel… Looks navigation is available in multisport category watches or trail running section. Although to me Suunto 2R would qualify. What is your opinion?
For road running I really don’t see it as a ‘must have’ feature at this point. I think that’s probably because the screens on today’s watches make poor running map companions (whereas something like the Motoactv would have been legit useful). Thus, if I’m going out somewhere where navigation is a requirement, I’m just going to take a phone for that. And again, I’m really looking more at road running with the FR620.
I suspect within a few years depending on iWatch and/or other competitors – that might change and the screens might be useful for navigation. I guess I’d be looking to have an Edge 800/810/1000 navigation experience on a FR620-sized device. Then I’d be happy.
Ambit’s Back to Start feature where it displays a general direction and distance to the start (or a chosen waypoint) is quite useful even without a map. I used it multiple times when running in unfamiliar places. I used Back to Start on Garmin FR610 as well. It isn’t clear why Garmin decided to remove such a useful feature. Anyway, for me there is no going back to Garmin. I’ll stick with Ambit, thank you very much.
I’m confused about the Adidas BLE Footpod. The text in the article implies it’s new (out for a few weeks), which leads me to think that there’s been a recent change. However, looking at link to adidas.com, it appears to be the same one I’ve been using for quite a while?
Is it “stale” text from the original post about the footpad that’s confusing me, or was there an update?
Thanks…
Sorry Richard for the confusion – all fixed!
the name of that device is damned confusing, seen it called the Micoach, and other times the speed_cell. I’m hoping they’re the same device, coz I ordered speed_cell from Adidas store in UK, with a damn long delivery timeframe sadly.
If you paid £28 its the old ant+ pod, the ble version costs £45. The ble is showing in stock as of 5 minutes ago.
ant+ link to adidas.co.uk
BLE link to adidas.co.uk
I bought the 910xt back when Garmin had their sale plus the $50 mail in rebate. I like the watch but don’t LOVE it, primarily because of the size of it. I used it for my 70.3 a few weeks ago and it worked perfectly, so no complaints about the functionality. I only have one more race this season, so it’s primary use thus far has been training.
With all of this said and as I’m nearing my return window, do you think that the watch at the discounted pricing is worth holding onto with the potential for replacement on the horizon? You say not to get it at full price if there isn’t a need, but I’m curious to hear your thoughts about getting it at the sale price.
Thanks!
That’s tough since you’re close to return window. I guess for me, if I already bought it – then I’d stick with it and use it for the rest of the year. You could revisit things next year. Otherwise, you could be in a situation where a replacement device might not be available until first snow.
I’ve been ready for a while. Thanks for the great site.
What I loved about my 310xt was that I could set a simple pace range. Alert when I go slower than this or faster than that. Through a firmware ‘upgrade’ they took that feature away. I don’t really train for events, but run occasional 5k.
Is there a cheap gps watch that has that feature?
Thanks.
Not on the super-cheap side. The FR15 can setup pace alerts, but it’s basically targeting a given pace rather than a range.
Well, there are some non-GPS options that can target a pace or HR interval, I guess. At least my old Forerunner 50 with a foot pod and HR belt could do both of these. So I assume current FR70 should be able to do that too.
Hi,
I just thought, if you can buy the 310xt at a cheaper price so why buy the adge 500? Even if I am only mountain bikeing …
Hi Ray, tks for the advices. You’ve announced some time a goa reviews of the Sigma Rox 10 and Polar V650. Are these coming out soon ? I wonder if they will change your recommendations above for bike gp computers ? Thanks
The V650 review will be out a few weeks after Polar finalizes things. Right now it’s going to be a bit still. I don’t expect that release to change my recommendations immediately. By fall we can see where things stand – but it’s a lot like the V800 in that it’ll be released with many features still en route.
On the Sigma Rox, it’s still in my queue to write something on, just backlogged.
Great site, thanks for all the care and attention that go into your reviews. Quick question, I’m just getting back into running and had some success with HR based training before and I’m wondering whether to go TomTom cardio or Garmin fr15/rhythm plus combo. Any thoughts as to advantages disadvantages? Scosche has emailed me tosay three weeks till rhythm plus released in UK so have some time to decide,
Thanks!
That’s a tough one. With the FR15 you get the daily activity tracking, whereas with the TomTom you get Bluetooth Smart uploads and the built-in optical.
With either combo you’ll be able to do HR training, and neither watch really includes any sort of prescriptive plan options – so it’s mostly just following your own plans for either. I’d say it really comes down to whether or not you want optical HR, or activity monitoring.
Thanks for the feedback, might go with the FR15 and Rhythm plus combo, as (if Scosche match the current Rhythm price as seem to have in the US) it should come out cheaper, and gives me the flexibility to use the Rhythm plus with other devices if watch needs replacing or running with phone as I do at the moment.
Still like the look of the tomtom though I can live without bluetooth syncing.
So on the strength of these recommendations, I decided to replace my elderly Garmin FR110 with a 310XT. Further to the 620 cycling compatibility upgrade, I’m now wondering whether I should return the 310XT and go in for the 620?
I mainly use the device for running and increasingly cycling (outdoor and turbo) as I am getting in to triathlon. For swimming I use a Garmin Swim already. I won’t be getting a power meter (unless I win one in the Giveaway!) in the foreseeable future and I don’t see myself having much use for a watch in the water (apart from pool training, where I would use the Swim).
Are the speed/cadence cycle metrics going to be as good as what i’d get out of a 310XT? Can you ‘change disciplines’ on the 620 without too much fuss?
Any one got any suggestions or advice? Many thanks.
So am I reading correctly that you are mainly just using the Scosche RHYTHM+ with your FR620 now instead of the Garmin HRM-Run? Is the accuracy & better form factor a good trade-off for the lack of running dynamics? Do you miss any of that running dynamic stuff?
Yup, that’s correct. For me the accuracy is fine, and the better form factor is a good tradeoff for me despite the lack of running dynamics (which, I haven’t really found much value in beyond geek-factor).
Wondering if there’s any solid combination activity tracker / bike computer options that work with 3rd party apps (like cyclemeter)? Seems to me they should all be talking to each other so you don’t need an activity tracker for your 23 hours, a bike computer for your 1 hour and ne’er the two shall meet? Is there an all in one option? The new Apple Health feature should help if I’m understanding it right. But any developers or big tech cos (hello Garmin) signed up yet?
Basically want an option that won’t drain my phone battery, and is tied to my everyday tracking. Anyone else feeling this void? If I’m crazy and there’s stuff on the market already, please enlighten me.
-todd
You can get platforms like MyFitnessPal that will pull in data from multiple sources.
Thanks for the quick reply. It’s good adivce to suggest an app, but I guess that answers my question. Apparently there’s not a good device on the market that does these things?
Previously I had My Fitness Pal and found it more useful to nutrition and dietary tracking (ie, entering specific meals, etc.) than for activity and fitness tracking (heart rate, GPS bike riding, etc.). Still looking for the one device that can connect my wrist to the bike without killing my iphone battery. Incidentally, I saw Google released an Apple Health like feature for Android today. so maybe the market’s turning toward centralization and convenience for those of us that to combine data.
Thanks.
I would say that heavily overpriced Ambit2 over Fenix2 is simply a consequence of european product vs chinesse one. That is trade of. Features aside, Suunto is way better built device. It’s just solid, not plastic look (some one mentioned that fenix looks like $10 plastic watch – I wouldnt go that far, but Suunto looks like a war-ready device, rock solid).
Different thing is that Ray operates with American prices, where Ambit2 vs Fenix2 is really overpriced (sthg like $500 vs $400 is the simplest setup and eve worse $650 vs $450 in packages and saphire version of suunto). But here in Europe things look a bit different. Garmin’s price in Euros is same as in dollars (400E) while Ambit2 Silver without HR monitor can be found for 310E (amazon.it) !! Then things look differently…
Need a running GPS watch and have been reading your site the past few days. Looking for the feature of Virtual Racer. That leaves Garmin FR610, 910XT, and a hope and a prayer they add it to Fenix2. So with the rebate and discount at CT, the 610 is $315 and 910 is $355 (both with HRM). Is the little price difference a no brainer? Won’t likely use the Cycle/Swim features, but the battery life is a huge plus.
It depends a bit on how big a watch you want to be honest. If you’re just a runner, I’d probably go with the FR610 unless you’re running more than that 8-10 hours in a shot. But, that’s just me…
I really don’t get the FR610 recommendation. That thing gave me problems within months of buying it – spikes in heartrate (making me change the strap & HRM twice), crappy wristband, forcing me to switch to the velcro strap, and finally, battery problems,when the watch started giving up after something like 18km, supposedly with an empty battery (but with 40% left when I connected it to the charger), resulting in continuous resetting and lost data, and now it even frequently starts reverse loading, draining instead of charging the watch. If you google these problems, you will find literally hundreds of people with identical problems.
Even if you have one the FR610s that doesn’t have any of these problems, the existence of these issues should make recommending it very hard, imho.
Did you ever call up support to swap out your watch?
The issues are fairly rare, despite what Google might say. If you search for issues (or, go to a forum looking for an issue), then by default, that’s what you’re going to find. People without issues don’t post as such.
The singular issue to really be aware of on the FR610 was the early ones that some people had skin reaction to (first 8 or so months of production), but Garmin has long stopped producing those (in favor of a plastic backing), and still to this day will refund/replace those watches free of charge. Same goes for the pins btw, which were enlarged early on to resolve that problem.
The battery issues actually over 160 posts on Garmins forum, up until last month. I recognise the trouble with the backing, but didn’t get a skin reaction myself after the metal look wore off.
I did contact support, actually, several times. With the heartrate strap and meter, they sent me a replacement, free of charge, which was great, and that still works. With the current battery issues (I bought the watch feb. 2012) ‘all’ they are offering, is replacing it, at a price:
“Garmin offer a 12 month manufacturer’s warranty, if your purchase was more than 12 months ago we can offer to replace your device for a fixed replacement cost of €94.94” (email, May 1t6th)
I am unsure if that is the way to go, but I was not aware of the changes made to the FR610. If I can be certain it will function properly, maybe I should consider it, but it irks me to have to pay again, it was expensive enough, really. Still, the alternative is a new, different watch, which is more expensive.
Choices choices: a brand new fr620 for $359 after discount, a brand new ambit 2 at 319, or a brand new ambit 2s at 219…
Hello, mr. Rainmaker!
Can you help me with some advice?
I wish to buy watches with GPS, Heart Rate and I think, I need good instructions. As I see, we have good programs in Adidas micoach. But I don’t need to have watches to use Adidas – I have it in my Android smartphone.
What can you tell about Garmin training programs? Are they good?
And, as I understand from your site, I can upload instructions only on watches Forerunner 220 or 620? On FR 15 I can’t?
And some people in Russia speak, that Garmin is not best decision, it for hipsters and instagram lovers. What do you think about it?
To buy Polar, in need much more money – to have GPS sensor, to upload data with FlowLink, now I don’t like Polar.
Final question: Garmin Forerunner 220 is really good and optimal for running (and garmin web-service, and training programs)?
Thank you!
The Garmin training programs (the downloadable ones) are actually pretty good, especially for being free. And yes, those only work with the FR220 or FR620 and not with the FR15 (they also work with watches like the FR310XT/FR910XT, etc…).
I’m not sure what’s good or bad about Hipsters or Instagram, but, people of all walks of life like Garmin devices (and Polar devices, etc…).
Hi Rainmaker,
I’m a trail runner and looking for GPS watch that can last for long distance run. Between fenix 2 and ambit2 which one suitable for ultra trail running and has the longest battery life span?
I know both has 50hrs battery life but then depending on the setting, which one is better?
Thanks in advance.
Both of them are really similar in that respect. So it really comes down to tiny details or features like Bluetooth connectivity.
Hi Rey,
Always appreciate all your great works so I am back to you for your expert advice.
I run/hike and do biking.
I do both run/trail running and max I go 15 mile in run. So I know where I am going and navigation is not big deal.
While biking I like exploring new routes. I log avg 30-40 miles in single ride, I prefer something which can guide me about bike route.
Can you please suggest best bet which can serve both biking and running.
Thanks
Hi Rainmaker
What A great site. I’m going to buy my first gps running watch. I will only use it for running – mainly short distances: 5 and 10 km. So interval features are most welcome and the virtual partner also seems quite cool.
My dilemma is the following: first choice would be the FR220, but it’s also quite expensive. As an alternative I could buy the FR210 or the (only slightly more expensive) 320xt. The latter seems to offer most bang-for-buck, but my concern is that I would feel it too clunky (especially since I don’t need the multi-sports-mode).
So her main question is whether the 220 is so much better than the 210 and whether the 310xt is a tolerable choice for running-only?
Prices in Denmark:
FR220: 400$ (yes I know it is ridiculous compared to US prices)
FR210: 200$
FR310: 230$
Best regards
Christian
If she wants a smaller watch than the 310XT and you need to save some money, then the FR210 or FR15 (or the Ambit2 R) are all perfectly fine for running. True the FR15 doesn’t have the interval function, but she might find the other features useful instead. Otherwise, if she’s looking for phone upload connectivity then the FR220 is really the best bet.
I just wanted to share this new and maybe cheaper power meter
Rotor Power LT spotted – 21 Days of Tour Tech
Hol Ray, which one: FR15 or Tomtom runner? Budget runner who likes the sport but not exigent.
Which one has the best balance between simplicity and customisation? I dont care about the activity tracker what i really care is about the training features like creating workouts, virtual partner or the zone settings in the TomTom, etc. I like to train at certain paces and like to receive feedback from the device.
regards
Given what you’re saying, I’d probably skew more towards the TomTom Runner than the FR15 – primarily because you aren’t interested in the activity tracker piece.
Newbie runner here…have been using phone + runtastic combo on runs and love being able to see stats and progress etc. Uncomfortable with phone strap combo and would like to buy a gps watch.
Planning on getting serious with running and training for half marathon in 7 months time. Have researched loads and still cant decide. Between the Nike Sports watch and the Tom Tom cardio…..at the moment.
Want a watch only for running. Will be training outside but do lots of running on treadmill. Also I live on an island in the middle of the ocean…will these watches still have no problems picking up satellites?
Advice on which one to pick from the two…..or out of all the choices?
Thanks, great site and reviews!
Hi Rey,
Need your advice!
I am thinking about upgrading my running gps watch(Ambit2 R).
I run and bike mostly and occasionally/rarely hike. But I would like to have option open. Definitely its +ve point.
I had two option Fenix2 and Ambit2 but now with forerunner620 getting bike mode I got stuck between these three now.
I see all three almost same priced except Ambit2 having small adv as its under sale for 319/349(HR) @ clever training.
What you would have picked if given you in my place. Touch screen/bluetooth is advantage but not deciding factor
Thanks in advance.
Hmm, I’d actually look at the Ambit2S. Unless you really really want the barometric altimeter, you could pickup the 2S for $219 still…which is a pretty darn sweet deal.
Thanks Ray, you my man. Always up when needed.
Thanks again!!!
As Garminmuch pretty much killed off support for ANT+ Scales and knowing they got into the activity trackers market, can we expect them to launch a scales under their own brand intergrated with Garmin connect?
When could we expect such scales to be available?
Checking your thoughts around this before ordering the Fitbit Aria. (Withings requires iPhone for setup, so that rules it out)
FYI, I currently use Garmin FR620 and want to follow up my weight vs sports activities. I do not own any Fitbit products at the moment.
I’m not sure, I would have actually expected it sooner to be honest. I don’t expect one anytime soon though. Typically stuff like that tends to be announced around CES, as it gains the most traction there.
There are some 3rd party apps though that will pipe Withings weight data to Garmin Connect. See this post here and SyncMetrics: link to dcrainmaker.com
Hi there and thanks for a really superb website :-) I’ve got a quick question. I currently own a ambit2 and I run mainly on road – but I love hiking and GPS is a must for me – but I am really interested in a accurate calories estimate. Is the ambit2 accurate or should I consider an alternative?
Hope to hear for you :-)
Thanks!
I generally find that Garmin/Suunto/Polar calorie consumption on their higher end devices with a HR strap is almost always within just a few percent of each other.
Thanks :-)
I really do love the ambit2 so this was great news for me ;-)
So I assume this is year 3 with garmin. I suspect we will see a 920?
Are you all aware of any Garmin watch that allows you to change the display from heart rate to % of max heart rate?
Thanks!
Yes, most do. For example, the FR620 does. Almost all of my reviews show the exact data fields. I usually list it in a section called “Data fields”.
Thanks for the reply and for the tremendous review. I noticed that you usually do the data fields, but I don’t see it for the FR15 which is the one I am considering.
Thanks again!
It’s within the ‘Running Outdoor’ section. Search the page for: “Here’s the available ‘Pick two’ options:”
Also note the section immediately after it with the Lap/Avg/etc options. Cheers.
Great reviews fella. Would like a little help though. I have used smartphone for years but as they get bigger the call of the GPS watch gets greater. I run (trails) and ride a lot. Looking at 310xt for about 150 with heartrate monitor! Just interested in pace while running and zones and avg speed while riding and most of all reliable GPS. I have had bad times on waiting for an age on GPS signal to random spikes whist running. Is this the best for that price?
Older GPS units will take a bit longer to receive satellite signal, so unfortunately you won’t entirely sidestep that here. That said, you shouldn’t see any major speed spikes with the 310XT. Overall, the 310XT continues to be an incredible deal for the price.
So you would say regardless of its age it still goes ahead of some of the other options in that price bracket? like FR15, tomtom etc not to mention with these the loss in multi sport function
Yes and no. Definitely from an overall functionality standpoint. Though, it’s much bigger and lacks things like Bluetooth Smart (TomTom) or Step monitoring (FR15). So it’s a bit of a balance as to what you might find more value in.
Cool thanks for your comments. it certainly helps. Seems to be so much tech built in its hard to know what i want and what i need and what i dont know what i dont want that i may need!
Hello! Would be great to see a review of the new Solar GPS Pulse watch. Thanks!
Yup, I’m working on it…
I am surprised that I don’t see the Suunto Quest GPS. It costs $249 including HRM and seems to have functionaility only found in the Garmin 600 series.
The Suunto Quest doesn’t actually have GPS in it, but rather a separate pod.
Ray,
With the current sale price of $219 for the Ambit 2S, would you see that as a better deal than going with a 310XT? You mentioned that the 310Xt is still a great price to functionality unit.
Thanks!
In general for triathletes – yes, because of the indoor swimming. For those that do complex custom workouts or intervals though, the 310XT might be a bit better option. But yeah, the 2S continues to be awesome at $219.
Hi Rey,
I agree Suunto2 S is great at this price point of 219 but is it better to go for Ambit2S or wait and see as Suunto may be releasing 3S like Ambit3 .
They’ve already announced the “3S” – it’s called the Ambit3 Sport (the Peak is equiv to the full Ambit2/3): link to dcrainmaker.com
Here you go. How I missed this. Thanks Rey!!
The price of the Quest is $150 with HRM. with HRM and GPS POD retail is $249.
Yes, but most people don’t want to run with a separate GPS pod (that you have to charge). Thus, it doesn’t make my recommendations since I can’t really recommend it. Given there are other more capable watches starting at $150ish that support HR straps (per above), those are better options.
I guess the issue is that if I want my HR Recovery stored and an index for Overtraining, etc, I can either pay $399 for the FR 620 or use Strava GPS on my mobile phone and buy the Quest for $150. Do you know of any other GPS/HR all in one that has what I need in the under $200 range?
Units like the TomTom Runner have a HR strap and are under $200. Alternatively, if you like your phone you could get the Magellan Echo, which just dropped down to $129 (+ I think about $40 for the HR strap). And then you can use a slew of apps.
i dropped my tomtom multi-sport and cracked the glass. feeling rotten as i had chosen this one because it allowed me to run even in mumbai rains and now, i am not going to be able to wear it for the next few months. anyone with experience of mending a cracked glass on their gps watch?
Excellent article as usual! I have a slightly off-topic question: where is that outdoor pool in your picture?
link to dcrainmaker.com
That looks amazing! I want to take my new Garmin Swim over there workout :)
Sydney Australia – Here’s the details of the trip: link to dcrainmaker.com
Hi Ray,
are you aware of any news for what concerning Android developments? They were expected in Q2-14.
I will need then to use it on my two bikes where I have aero bar (3T ergonova and Giant AERO). Any clue on which support should I buy? Wish to sell my edge510.
Thanks a lot mate.
fili
PS I was referring to Garmin Fenix2 device.
As of last week, Android is now fully supported on the Fenix2 – including Smart Notifications.
Excellent stuff Ray! Thanks a lot. Any help on bar mounting?
As everyone else, I too appreciate all the time you put into the product reviews. Makes for an informed decision. I’ve had an experience with the 910XT that I thought I’d pass along. I bought my first 2 years ago and am now on my 3rd device. Like clockwork my altimeter goes out at 12 months. I’ve talked with Garmin and they have indicated that this is a known problem and are willing to fix it for another $90. I like the functionality of the device which is why I’ve exchanged my 3 times but am getting more concerned with this approach and questionable data issues coming from my other ANT devices. Any experience you’ve had that would show the stability over time?
On your altimeter, have you tried the warm bowl of soapy water and/or toothbrush trick?
I hadn’t heard of this. I’ll give it a try, thanks for the tip!
Hi Ray
Am really torn between 2 watches. The Tom Tom Runner Cardio and the Garmin Forerunner 620. Both are cool but can’t decide. I love the simplicity of the TT but the GF has a lot more features. The V02 and Oscillation features on the GF are great. But the inbuilt HRM in the TT is a major plus. Both are expensive but would appreciate any help or suggestions in aiding me choose.
Thanks so much
Tam
I’d ignore the Running Dynamics pieces and instead focus on how much you value the built-in heart rate strap. That’s in my opinion the biggest reason to choose the TomTom unit. If that’s not a critical item for you, I’d look at the FR220 or FR620 (with looking at the FR220 being more relevant to the features on the TomTom units).
Thanks so much Ray. Think I may give the TomTom a go. Appreciate the advise.
Ray, this is an incredible breakdown and in very useful. I do have one question however.
I noticed that absent in the Triathlon budget options is the Tom Tom MultiSport. I believe it has all the features the others do, plus it has some of the swimming features the others don’t. Am I missing something, or did you just not feel it was up to snuff to make the list. I wanted to ask you about that before making a decision.
Thanks in Advance
The challenge is that the TomTom doesn’t actually have a multisport mode, which makes it tough for triathlons. Further, it doesn’t support outdoor swimming (just pool swimming). Lastly, in comparison to the units noted, the TomTom is very basic feature-wise. That’s not necessarily a bad thing, but from my recommendations standpoint I generally wouldn’t recommend the multisport edition.
Thanks so much.
Actually, i do have a followup comment. (sorry to bother). What about for only training purposes, where I wouldn’t be rushing between events. Also, I don’t train outdoors for swimming.
Yeah, in that case the TomTom would work fairly well for you since the areas it doesn’t have you don’t tend to use.
Hi Ray,
Your site has been very helpful in my search for the right fitness watch. I’m currently off-season training (running and biking) for Cross-Country Skiing and looking first and foremost for heart-rate monitoring and workout planning capabilities. With that in mind, I started looking only at Polar devices, but have found myself considering Garmin devices after seeing your recommendations.
I know Polar has it’s origins in heart rate monitoring and Garmin’s is in GPS. Do you feel that Garmin’s heart rate monitoring and analysis is on par with Polar?
I’m thinking a multi-sport watch would be best and am considering the 310xt, 910xt, and RCX5. I’ve seen you mention that the RCX5 is a dated watch, but it seems the 910xt is almost as old and 310xt is even older. Is it the overall Garmin experience (web,software,compatibility) that puts the 310xt over the RCX5 for you?
Thanks,
Collin
Any first impressions with the upcoming Timex RunX50+?
Thanks for this detailed and super-informative site. But after reading pages and pages, I’m even more perplex then before…
Could it be that is actually the wrong time to buy a running watch, and the best thing is to simply….. wait?
On one handed, we have very mature devices having a load of features (like the Garmin 620, and it’s equivalent at Suunto, Polar) but using an antiquated and cumbersome technology (heart rate chest straps).
On the other hand, we have new devices using a promising and disruptive technology — optical heart rate sensors — that are totally lacking in features (TomTom Runner Cardio).
We then have somewhat complicated compromises, like wearing a Scosche or a Mio on your arm next to your Garmin, with two devices to charge (and potentially to lose in a hotel room somewhere…).
I personally don’t mind running with an iPhone, but even there, appas like Runkeeper or Runtastic have rather poor features for serious runners (clumsy and incomplete programming of interval workouts, no training calendars and so on).
Should it be too much to ask that in the course of the next year someone comes out with a watch with equivalent functions as a Garmin 620 but with a built-in optical sensor? Or that TomTom will get the software right?
Thank you for all you do!! Question, have you ever reviewed the BC-1500 Tanita scale? I don’t believe any scale is “accurate” however I do believe in looking at trends. If the user is consistent in usage (time of day, sturdy location of scale, etc.) then trends can be useful. A group of us used this scale during a mini Tri training day. We measured prior to swim, after bike, and after run. The results were “interesting”…I am just not sure I believe it. And at a ridiculous price point I would want something to believe in. I wondered if THE DC Rainmaker had considered it :). Here is the Amazon link: link to amazon.com
Yeah, the problem I have with it is that fewer products are supporting the ANT+ side of weight scales these days (for example, not the FR220/FR620), and I feel like for trending data such as weight – it’s important to get that data in a log somewhere. Scales like the FitBit and Withings put that online and sync to numerous sites. Heck, I just saw a site this weekend sent to me that sync’d the FitBit scale to Garmin Connect.
From an accuracy standpoint, all of them are rock-solid on the weight side, but more or less wobbly on the body fat. You’ve probably seen my previous weight scale accuracy testing here: link to dcrainmaker.com
Thus why given the high price of units like the BC-1500 – I just don’t see it as worth it.
Hola Ray, now FR220 and FR610 are virtually at the same price (bundles), which one you define as the best choice for the ” go to run” category?
best regards
It depends, in general though, I’d go with the FR220. Here’s why you would want to purchase the FR610 instead:
1) You want some of the basic navigational features of the FR610
2) You want the cycling-specific mode (remember, you can still change the display to ‘Speed’ on the FR220), or you want ANT+ speed/cadence sensor support on the FR610
3) You want to display 4 customizable data fields instead of three, per page.
4) You want Virtual Partner (the FR220 has pace alerts, which is like a floor/ceiling instead)
5) You want weight scale support
Those are the main reasons. Personally, I’ll take the quicker satellite reception and upload of workouts through the phone, as well firmware updates that way. Also remember that the FR220 has significantly more features than it’s older sibling, the FR210 (for example, advanced workout support). So it’s really more of a FR620 ‘Lite’ than it is a FR210 ‘Pro’…if that makes sense.
Just my two cents…
Hello Ray,
Can I have your suggestion, please? (I am open to anyone suggestion)
I would like to buy a new sporttester ASAP, and I would appreciate a little help from you.
I “kill” my Polar RC3 GPS yesterday, my old Suunto M5 doesnt have an integrated GPS, so no chance for back up.
Here is what i want / need:
– multisport model ideally (running – 3 to 4 days a week, MTB riding 1 to 2 days, sometimes hiking, in-line skating, soccer, squash, TRX, skiing, etc.),
– integrated GPS is a must,
– HR measurement is also a must (optical sensor sounds interesting),
– wireless transmission and PC synchronisation (This is a must!!! Bad experiences with cables),
– contactless charging (i.e. no micro USB, or a like) (Again bad experiences – dead Polar, cant be charge anymore :-( ),
– don´t care about manufacture´s web site (I will upload my workouts to Strava and Endo),
– as good build quality as possible,
– price about 300 USD (but can be more, if necessary).
I started to think about Suunto Ambit 2S, which is now on excellent discount… but it doesnt have a wireless transmission (It is a pitty, it doesnt support Suunto Movestick Mini).
I’d agree that the 2S sounds like the best overall budget-friendly option minus wireless transmission. You could look at the Fenix2, which does have wireless transmission however. As does the Fenix1 – though it lacks a multisport mode but supports multiple sports.
If it were me and trying to make the budget fit, I’d probably skip the wireless piece and go with the 2S for $219.
Ray,
thanks for your huge commitment. I really enjoy reading your blog, advices , …
This is an incredible benefit for the whole community.
But there is one topic I would like you to go a little bit more into detail.
What about the accuracy issues of FR220/620.
These have been mentioned by other users several times (here as well as at garmin’s forum) without really provoking any comments from your side (at least I was not able to find).
What’s your experience on that? Is GPS accuracy comparable to 610, Ambit, …? Not only with regards to the distance but also to the course of the road? If so, are all guys complaining just unlucky fellows (and there might be a problem with one batch)?
I’d highly appreciate your input; going to buy my first GPS and there is no other device meeting all my requirements (although not high).
Many thanks
Kai
I’ve responded a number of times to them, but it’s pretty simple: I just don’t see accuracy issues on my units (mine or my wife’s). I post the vast majority of my runs to Strava, which shows the units. Also have posted some of my wife’s – including her Boston Marathon – all showing quite good.
I think that when you start talking the volume of number of any product, your going to get the occasional lemon. Even if you look at a consumer device failure rate in the mid-low single-digit numbers (very good actually be it an iPhone or a TV), that’s still a number of people. And since only people who have problems ever post about it, that’s all you see.
Just my two cents…
Thanks again. It was not clear to me, whether some single units are affected (and of course I agree on acceptable failure rates) or the whole FR220/620 series (since some guys had the same issue after replacing the 220/620).
So I think I will go for the 220.
Thanks
Kai
Ray,
can you please share the website to synch Fitbit Aria scale with Garmin Connect? I was desperately looking for something like that…
many thanks
Yup. It’s: link to fitdatasync.com
Note I haven’t yet linked up my accounts or poked at it at all, so not quite sure how well it works yet.
(Thanks to Steve K. for sending over to me.)
Hi Ray,
I am currently in the market for a triathlon GPS watch. Ive narrowed it down to either Garmin Forerunner 310XT or Suunto Ambit2 S. Do you prefer one over the other? (Ambit2 S is about $30 more than the 310XT).
Thanks in advance!
Christian
I’d go with the Ambit2 S actually, since you’re tri focused – as it will allow you to track pool swims whereas the 310XT doesn’t.
The 310xt is a stalwart tri watch, but the features and packaging of the Ambit2S are a step up. Even if the 310xt has all the features that you want, and you don’t mind wearing a laptop on your wrist- every morning when the Ambit finds GPS satellites in 3 seconds, and you never, ever need to wait for it… even if you’ve flown 1000miles, even if you’re already moving… you’ll be glad you spent the extra $30. Pre-loading of satellite data has really made all the new watches so much quicker- it’s a real pleasure.
Thanks, both!
Did you find Suunto coming out with the new Aambit3 line a bit of surprise?
I remember you writing earlier that the watches that are on the market now is it for the year. Suunto’s move with their whole new lineup seems as though they were keeping their cards close to their chest.
Nope, no surprise.
I believe my wording above and previous over the past year has been “this triathlon season”, in terms of actual availability.
Hi Ray,
I’m thinking of replacing my Garmin HR monitor with a RHYTHM+ but noticed in here you only mention it for running. Has it also become your go-to HR monitor for cycling or do you have something else you prefer?
Thanks,
David
I use it for both these days.
Rainmaker need help! Between two watches – tom tom cardio or garmin 220?? Like the built in heart rate monitor of the cardio but dislike the look of it and not sure about the online platform.Garmin 220 looks more professional…online platform looks solid…negative is no built in hr…leaning towards garmin. HELP!
Im a new runner….want to train for half marathon distance as new target…both outdoors and indoors training (treadmill) – help me decide!
Thanks.
I think it really comes down to the heart rate sensor or not. If you want built-in HR, go with the TomTom, else, I’d recommend the FR220 as a good mid-range watch. That said, the TomTom Runner (basic model), is still very solid, especially at $130ish these days.
Hi Ray,
Above you note that this may not be the best time to purchase an indoor trainer. Do you have any insight as to what may be released after Eurobike? I was looking at the Kickr to begin doing most training indoor so that I get hit metrics and eliminate variable like stop lights, cars, pedestrians, etc….
Thanks,
Mike
The two major shows are Eurobike and Interbike (separated by two weeks). Companies would announce new products at those shows, as they typically do each year. But I don’t generally post about things that are unannounced. Sorry!
Not wanting a chest HR strap and based on the reviews, I’ve decided to pair the Scosche Rhythm+ with the Suunto Ambit2 for trail/mountain running, which both should be good for 8hrs on a trail with 1s GPS logging. Without the capacity for a firmware update, will the Rhythm+ need replacing in the short term? Would anyone have gone a different direction for the combination of products?
For running how do the multi-sport watches compare to the dedicated running watches?
In general they all have more features than the running-only watches, and there is rarely a case where a running-only watch has something a multisport one doesn’t. Purely a size thing in most cases.
Garmin has dropped Auto Lap by Position from all new models? FR610 has it but FR220 and FR620 doesnt have that feature anymore. Will it make returns from new software updates or is it gone for good?
I do some circuit riding and Auto Lap everytime i pass same place would be ideal.
Correct. I’m not sure if we’ll see it added again.
Thank you for your excellent reviews!!! I am new to sports watches and have nothing to compare anything to and the market is over run with options. I am a gig rower and need a watch to monitor speed and distance precicely and must be waterproof. HRM would be nice. Do any of the mainstream watches measure in Knots? I have been looking at 310xt, Polar RC3x, Navrun 500, Suunto 2R. My budget is not big purely as this is my first watch but I want a good one and now I am confused :/ Any thoughts please?
Unfortunately I haven’t seen any of the major running/cycling devices do that. One option would be the Garmin Quatix, but that’s a bit more expensive than the models you listed above – and doesn’t really get you all the fitness features you wanted.
Another option would be to get a waterproof case/mount for your phone, and then just pair a Bluetooth Smart heart rate strap and an app that has knots. Not as clean as a watch, but certainly functional (and likely cheaper).
I thin you could use Suunto for this. It should be simple to add an app that shows knots…
Ahh yes, brilliant suggestion. And indeed, there are a ton of Knots apps available for the Suunto Ambit series, here’s the most popular: link to movescount.com
Given that, I’d say that’s your best bet. The Ambit2 S is on sale for $219 these days, making it pretty much one of the best deals out there and perfect for your use.
I am looking for the best watch for multiple activities. I run and mountain bike and do adventure racing (12-24 hour races) so I need a watch with great battery. I have a very very petite wrist and cannot find something that will work for that. I used to have the Garmin 110 strictly for running but the battery life will not do for adventure races. I tried the Suunto Ambit 2 and even on the smallest band setting it was still very large on me.
Any recommendation would be great. Thank you
That’s honestly a pretty tough nugget. There are virtually no slim/small watches that go about 10 hours of battery life. Realistically you’re either looking at the Suunto Ambit series, the Fenix2, or the Garmin FR310XT/910XT (for less than 20 hours).
For the Ambit2, did you try the women’s variant?
No I did not try the women’s version yet. I just returned the regular version and did not yet make a new purchase.
I’m very interested in adding the Tate Labs Bar Fly to my P3. I currently have a Garmin 910xt and I have read lots of reports of people losing them during the swim due to a failure of the quick release. Any thoughts on this and do you know if Garmin has planned on changing the quick release mechanism?
I know I’m probably being paranoid but I just don’t want to chance losing a $400 hrm. Thanks.
I wouldn’t expect a change to the FR910XT quick release kit at this point. That said, the best protection policy is to simply put the unit slightly under the edge of your wetsuit sleeve – that helps quite a bit (though does reduce visibility). Of course, that also doesn’t work in scenarios where a wetsuit isn’t used.
DC Rainmaker,
Amazing blog and 2014 Summer Gear recommendations! I live in Ecuador, South America and recently bought the TomTom Multisport Cardio, thanks to your review. I was a bit disappointed because it took ages to get GPS signal and the watch would many times freeze. It was pretty frustrating to get mentally prepped for a quick 5k and have to fiddle around for over 20 minutes to get the watch working. I’ve returned it for a new one, however became inclined on the Garmin 620. The fact that it doesn’t have an optical HRM kills me, but I like the aesthetics of that watch better (narrower strap, blue/black better than red/black, charging cradle is much better than TomTom’s design).
I really want to give the TomTom MultiSport another try, but would like to know what your recommendation is?
Regards,
Fabio
Great blog. I have followed your reviews off and on when needing new products several times over the years. quick question for you. My current polar heart rate strap is not functioning properly again after 6 months or so. drops/spikes/etc. I have been scouring the web for something else to try. I am a cyclist and simply would like a strap/transmitter that will get my heart rate to my garmin 500 consistently/accurately without drops and false readings. I was looking to try the wahoo or 4iiii but noticed your review of the optical scoshe armband. If you were only cycling given your experience with these products which would be your go to strap/transmitter? appreciate your insight and again great site. thanks
Great website and very helpful reviews. My challenge is that many of the GPS fitness watches have way too many feature. I use my GPS primarily for open water swims and typically wear the unit under my cap. I picked up a 910xt during a summer sale at REI and took advantage of the rebate as well. I liked the 910 and used it for about four weeks before it stopped charging. I cleaned the terminals and did a hard reset without success. I had to send it back to REI. As an alternative, I took a look at the Fenix 2 but found the display hard to read without my glasses plus it had way too many features and settings that I will never use. I am looking to replace the defective 910xt. I am not a triathlete and no longer run due to knee issues. My primary cardiovascular exercise is swimming with some strength work. I also do some long walks with trekking poles to keep my legs ready for hiking and backpacking. will never use most of the features of the tri/multisport watches. I am looking primarily for a watch to accurately measure swim and walk distances.
Since I wore the 910 under my cap, the openwater swim metrics were irrelevant to me. I tried it in the pool a few times but, to be honest don’t see myself using the pool setting very much at all. It is not hard to track the metrics I need the “old school” way.
Here are the things that I am looking for (in rough order of importance): accurate recording of distance for open water swims and walks (worn under my cap in open water): vibrating distance alerts (to monitor distance without being able to see the unit under my cap); auto pause (so I don’t have to fiddle with the watch when we stop to wait for the group to catch up; good battery life; relatively compact size to wear under a swim cap, easy to read screen; and easy down load of swims/walks.
I am a little nervous about Garmin quality issues given my experience with the 910 and friends’ experiences with the 310 XT.
Any recommendations.
I think the thing is that at this point, it’s really not the best season to buy a triathlon watch. There’s watches that have just hit the market (i.e. Ambit3), watches that are seeing significant updates (i.e Polar V800), and likely watches from companies that are overdue for new tri watches (i.e. Garmin).
hi, could you tell me your opinion on the bontrager node 2.1 with it’s cons and pros if possible and if you know if i can review my data on my laptop with it and also recommend me other alternatives and if you think a gps computer will be better
I haven’t used the 2.1, just the older version. That said, for the 2.1 price of $139, I’d really recommend looking at the Garmin Edge 200 instead. It’s cheaper and far more functional. Also, the Node doesn’t download to your computer, whereas the Garmin Edge does.
Wow this was a lot of work, you’re THE man Ray.
This was a nice read for me and I have to say that I was envious at some points and laughing at most others. I am geeky by nature but only to some extent, and even if GPS and “advanced” training programs might be helpful or even required for some people, I think you are still missing a category.
…… Category: Best bang for the buck. (Simple use, overall, low tech, use what makes sense). …..
I had a simple Garmin watch and for a few years now I have a Suunto T6c … yes it is old and lacks most of the “new” features, but overall I would say it is a much better device than lots of the new ones recommended. I have friends with newer devices beeping, loosing GPS, rebooting, freezing, and basically giving them pain.
So the real question is why ! … Why would I go through the pain of getting an intelligent device ? Why would I recharge the watch every day ? Why do I need to connect to Strava on every run ? Why is GPS even required ? (… add all other 1000 “why” here …)
The T6c was and still is rock solid with HR, foot pod, and bike pod. It works all the time, period. Change the battery once a year and there is nothing else to do. Well, there is but you get my point.
Using it in triathlons is simple, going for a run is a no-brainer, and swimming is … OK let’s not talk about swimming. I can even go on a camping/hiking trip and I do not need to bring a solar charger.
So my question to you: What recommendations would you give to someone not willing to recharge the darn watch every day, giving enough info to keep going and getting better and is stable enough to depend on it ?
I think the thing is that people in general do want better integration and more features, and ultimately it seems clear that the market doesn’t want devices that require carrying a separate GPS pod (or dealing with a footpod). I’d disagree that for the average consumer it’s easier (or more accurate) to use a footpod. Most don’t keep it accurately calibrated, and thus over time it drifts. If you run every day and know your routes and know to routinely calibrate it on your shoes if you move it, then perhaps. But most runners I know just want to go outside, wait a few seconds for GPS and run.
People now live in a world of charging phones every day. For most runners, charging their GPS watch once a week isn’t really a big deal.
As for recommendations – honestly, it’s hard at this point. There aren’t really any new recent watches that are trending that direction (simply because it’s no longer profitable to make them).
DC Help!!
I am looking to get into the gps watch game. I am a mild runner/swimmer/athlete.
But a Big hunter hiker military guy ( also a pilot).
Totally bamboozled by Garmin vs Suunto. “Cool” guys seem to go Suunto, pushing me towards Garmin (tactic?). But I hear the Ambit3 is “better”. Whatever that means…
Help??? ;)
Casey in Alaska
Ray,
Thanks so much for all you do here. I’ve learnt so much reading many of your reviews.
You seem to prefer the 620 for a running watch, but how does the Fenix 2 compare if money isn’t a consideration? ie if you wanted a watch that could handle everything, would you lose much on the running side with the Fenix 2. I notice it has many if not all of the features that the 620 has.
Or is there any issue with the F2 being a jack of all trades, master of none?
Thanks again
The F2 is indeed the jack of all trades, so that’s not really the issue. For me, I just prefer a lighter/smaller watch for running. That’s all.
The F2’s negatives are (1) hard-to-read screen (partially fixable if Garmin would support a setting to invert the black background / white text), and as mentioned, (2) it’s heavy while running. The FR620 doesn’t support as wide a range of activities, and for me the killer is that it doesn’t talk to power meters while biking. Some day there may “the one” device for all sports, but for now one has to have many “ones.” Sigh.
Regarding your thoughts about a new version of the Garmin 910xt end of year.
Do you have the information directly from Garmin?
First of all, thanks you so much for your review. I consider they are the best on the web and no one is even coming close to what you are doing here.
That being said, I’m looking to buy a gps watch and can’t make my mind on one. I’ve read the reviews and I’m basically looking for specific things:
10h+ battery life on GPS, altitude logging, fast gps reception, no touch screen.
I’m going to use it mainly for running, but cycling and swimming data could also be interesting to get. At first I was looking at the Tom tom watches, but I may now leaning toward garmin or suunto. I currently don’t do more than 50k for now, but want to go for more in a couple years, so I figure I get something that with better battery to kkep many years. Reading year you suggest the Ambit2 or the Fenix2.
I’m a bit afraid with the Fenix stability with all I’m am reading about watches crashing in the middle of a run. The ambit2 is a little bit pricey, but there is some deals to be found now.
Theres also the ambit3 that just came out that might worth a look….I’m not sure at all….and since it’s a 500$ investment, I just don’t want to make the wrong choice!
What would be the best pick? Maybe the 910xt would do the job..Idk…I run mostly trail, obstacle races and so on…so I need something solid as well.
Thanks!
Hi Eric,
Just my two cents. I was in the same situation where I needed to buy a tri watch, but couldn’t make up my mind between the Garmin 310 and Ambit 2S. After reading reviews by DC Rainmaker and others, I purchased the Ambit 2S and couldn’t be happier.
I’ve had the Ambit for about 2 months and I am happy to report that I have not had any issues. I’ve taken it out for a long run (20 miles), bike ride (30-50 miles), indoor swimming, day-long kayaking and hiking multiple times, but the watch still impresses me every time (it locks in GPS ridiculously fast). One of the best purchases I made. I cannot say this will be the case for you, but I thought I would share my experience. Also, it doesn’t look like you are wearing a laptop on your wrist, which is a huge plus!
Christian
Thanks Chris,
the thing is I’m looking to get the max bettery life I can…and it means looking to the ambit2. The thing that makes me hesitate is the price. 550 plus tax is a good amount of money. The fenix2 is more around 500 or so..still. I need to go to the store and try it on my wrist. The thing I am most concerned is the reliability…some have good experience with the fenix but I read alot of lockup problems. The ambit2 seems reliable on the other hand…but harder to find and more expensive. Thanks for your input anyway!
I’m a cyclist and kayaker looking for a unit mainly for raw data. Using a Garmin 210, but am drawn to Ambit2. What would you recomend and what would be the drawbacks of the Ambit2?
TY
Over the FR210? No drawbacks that I can think of to be honest. I suppose a slightly less intuitive interval mode, but really, I doubt your using that anyway.
Could somebody explain too me what is happening in that picture of a pool with the ocean taking it over and the swimmers giving zero fucks that it’s happening.
That’s Sydney, details here: link to dcrainmaker.com
I’m a fairly new runner who’s been getting by with my phone for the last 12 months. I enjoy my trail runs and have aspirations of ultras down the track. I’d also like to use the watch during Search & Rescue type operations.
I’m trying to decide between 910xt(with hrm) Fenix2(Without hrm) and 620(with hrm)
Any advice on which way I should go.
If I could get the Fenix2 with the hrm I don’t think I would be asking this question, but it’s not currently an option.
I just found this site today while researching the Ambit 3 and really appreciate all of the information here. Thanks!
Thanks for your hard work. I am in the market for a triathlon watch, but already have a garmin edge 810 for the bike. I find it so difficult to choose, what I really want is a simple watch with good connectivity and ease of use at speed in transition. I am new to triathlon but want something that will tell me my pace and distance whilst swimming and running both indoor and outdoor and enable zone programming.
Would you suggest the fenix 2 or 910? Or perhaps more simple the Tomtom multi sport.
Any help would be greatly appreciated.
Thanks
Hello,
Congrats for the excellent blog.
Just to remember to update the Triathlon GPS Watches section with the Suunto Ambit3
;)
Thanks
Hi,
thanks a lot for all the detailed descritpion on all the watches. I would like to have a piece of advice from some experienced athletes. First of all I want to say that I’ll use the watch mainly (95% of the times) for running and I don’t really know what to choose between the Garmin Forerunner 620 and the Polar V800. An other (maybe stupid question): is it better to have elevation data from the gps (as it is in the Garmin Forerunner 620) or from the pressure (as it is in the Polar V800) ? Do you have any other watch – suggestion? Any advice to choose between the Forerunner620 and Polar V800?
Thanks in advance
Thanks for the reviews. I’m starting to have issues with my Garmin 310 communicating with my computer (which I’ve been using for almost 3 years). I now want to by-pass the computer all together and load it up via my Android smartphone. Looks like I’ll be changing watches in the future.
Hello!
I’ve been reading your reviews for over a year now, and still haven’t bought a watch!
What would you recommend that is runner friendly, but does turn by turn navigation? I run half marathons, and constantly get lost on my long runs!
I don’t have a smartphone.
I really hope (someone, anyone!) Can help!
Thank you!
Honestly, none of the watches really do turn by turn navigation. Some watches (like the Fenix2/Suunto Ambit series) will do track navigation with the ability to configure waypoints (like a little pointy compass following a breadcrumb trail), but nothing like the Edge 800/810/1000 in terms of telling you to ‘Turn left on maple street’.
Hi Ray,
(Copying this message from my email) I’ve been following your blog for quite a while now and I have to say a big thank you for providing such great information that’s hard to find elsewhere online.
I am a couch potato who started running a few months ago. I have decided to keep running as a habit and invest a bit into the equipments. However, I still feel quite confused about the various gadgets that would fit my running situation. I wonder if you take a quick read of my situation below and give some quick suggestions. Thank you in advance!
I mostly run indoors on treadmills because I live in Boston and it is winter here for half of the year. When I run outside, I use Runkeeper on my iPhone to keep track of running data. I don’t mind the accuracy of my phone’s GPS: to me it is really important to know that I’ve run that day, and I don’t particularly care if my phone records a 3.5 mile run as 3.6 miles. When I run indoors, however, Runkeeper fails to work. I understand that I need to buy a foot pod. In particular, I’m looking at the miCoach Smart per your recommendation (and my iPhone supports bt smart). I’m also looking into buying a Rhythm+, so I can get more serious about improving my performance during my runs. What I couldn’t figure out from reading online reviews / forums is how easy these devices integrate with running apps on my phone. To me, it would be a big (and prohibitive) hassle if I have to log onto a website, export activity data, and load it using an App, in order for activities to be recorded. I would only find these gadgets worthwhile if they are completely hassle-free: turn them on, turn on the app, run, turn gadgets off, show run summary in the running app.
My question is: how integrated are the foot pod / HRM with various fitness / running apps on the iPhone? Would buying a running watch make my life easier (despite that I run 80% indoors, I’d be willing to pay for a watch just to stay away from hassle of manually exporting / transferring data)?
Thank you very much.
Best,
Ernest
You could use the Adidas footpod with the Scosche, with the Wahoo Fitness App to record data indoors, and then simply tap the button to upload to RunKeeper – so all your data would be in the same place. Simple and easy.
Buying a watch would potentially make it cleaner not having to deal with a phone, but the accessories you’re looking for are the same.
Hi. I’m looking for a fitness tracker that a teen swim club swimmer would find useful. As it’s for a teenager and therefore prone to being lost or stolen, price is a consideration, as well as ease of use and – unfortunately – style too!
It seems fitness trackers for swimming are problematic! I’m thinking the Vivofit might be best all-around, and I gather it now tracks sleep data which is fun but not critical for this use. Linking swim workouts — regular and lengthy – to calorie counts is most important, and integrating that information with a day spent trotting around school and running too. I can’t quite tell if Vivofit will enable all this even moderately accurately? Or perhaps there is another option I have missed? Forerunner of some sort?
Thanks for your ideas. And *thank you* a million times over for this mountain of knowledgeable observations!
Thanks for all of your helpful info. But I am still overwhelmed by all of the choices for a simple GPS watch and I’m confused by some of the terminology. My son is a high school cross country runner who has been wearing my hand-me-down Garmin 405 for the last few years. After 7 years of good use, it recently died so we are looking for a replacement for him. He liked the convenience of having pace, distance and workout time on one display without having to toggle between screens, but he never really cared to use the rest of the features of the watch.
So, I have two questions for you: 1) Does the 405’s replacement, the 220 have the same type of display or does it only show the time of day with the pace & distance? 2) Is there another quality watch out there that you can recommend that offers the display he is looking for with fewer features?
Otherwise, I have seen new 405s still available for sale, is it wise to buy an older GPS even if it’s never been used? I guess that’s actually three questions. :-)
I appreciate any guidance you can offer.
Thanks!!
Hi there from Raleigh! I am interested in what device or smart phone app you could recommend for the following scenario. Suppose I want to run at different paces and want to know the pace right now. For example in one run I may run slow; medium; fast; sprint; and go through various patterns of these paces. Maybe slow to sprint for example or fast to medium. What device or app for smart phone can tell me how fast I am running right now? In other words the average time, distance, and speed are not as important as the speed instantaneously. Thanks, in advance, for your comments.
Hello! Is it possible to upload training plans to the garmin fenix 2 like the ambit 2??
Thank you!
Yup.
How?
Ok! Got it, with Garmin Connect! Thank you :)
Hi DC
I am a runner and in particular focus on ultra marathon distances. I am also into trail running. I am battling to decide between the Garmin FR620 and the Suunto Ambit3. I see you have not posted an in-depth review on the ambit3 yet so I was wondering if you could help me out. Both watches cost pretty much the same here in South Africa so now I am wondering if the Suunto is a better buy because it is a multisport watch compared to the FR620. Whose to say I might not get into bi- or triathlons in the next year or so. But then again, I’m concerned that from a running perspective, I will get more out of the FR620 compared to ambit3. I do have a coach so the whole training program/interval features are not super important to me. PLEASE HELP! Thanks in advance :-)
If you are into ultra marathons, the Ambit 2 or 3 will both have some key features that the 620 doesn’t have. specifically a long battery life and navigation. I’d think this would be a pretty easy decision. You might want to check out the Fenix 2 as a comparable ‘ultra’ product to the Ambits.
For me the interval features on the 620 became even more important with coach…So much easier to do all the Interval workouts without going to a track all the time.
Hi DC,
I’m looking at improving my fitness by running on the beach and swimming in a pool. Soccer is my sport and living in Australia, it is now the “off season”. Never owned a GPS HRM before, but love the idea. I like the look of the TomTom Multi-Sport Cardio, but am i buying something that is too much $$$. Basically, i really just want to see if my fitness is improving and what my heart rate should be at for best performance. I’m a Type 1 diabetic so i really want to get the best from my workout sessions…. What would you recommend ?
Cheers mate
Daniel Condon
Polar M400 + H7 or Tom Tom Cardio MultiSport ?
If you had to pick one ?
It would really depend on how much you personally valued not wearing a HR strap (Cardio), or alternatively, how much you valued the cycling speed/cadence sensor and/or indoor swimming lap counting functionality.
If you’re more of a runner, then definitely M400. If not though, then the Multisport from TomTom may be better with more specific bike/run sensor and tracking functionality.
Hi!
I have Garmin 910XT. I would like to monitorize my heart rate while swimming indoor. 910XT does not support HR while swimming but it has a lot of info. How would be the better method por HR monitorizing in the swimmingpool? Even if I have to use 2 devices, 910XT and other.
Thanks a lot.
I am looking for a waterproof GPS watch & activity monitor. I walk and swim (lap pools, indoors and outdoors), and want something that can count my swim laps, calculate walking distance, and also be a daily activity monitor.
I have not been able to find one device that covers all the bases.
Any suggestions?
Thanks.
++Bump++…
You waited only 41 minutes to bump?
In any event, check out the FR920XT. Details here: link to dcrainmaker.com
Sorry I thought bump ment to +1 the comment … Ooooops
No worries. Typically +1 means “I’m interested/agree too”, whereas bump means “Please give me an answer because I don’t yet have one and I’ve waited too long.” :)
That fits the bill. A bit expensive, but covers the bases. I will pre-order. Thanks for the quick response and excellent recommendation.
Heard anything good about the Basis Peak ?
Just a little bit, they’ve said they should get me a unit ahead of launch. At this point I’ll wait until I have hands-on with a unit. I’ll be looking heavily at how accurate the sensor is during exercise, which is an area they talk about addressing in Peak.
Please, we need your support.
Which is the best tri-watch now?
Garmin920 – polarv800 – ambit3 peak
we need your knowledge and your best comparative
Thanks!!
Hi,
Do you have any HR monitor suggestion without integrated GPS? I would prefer to have a separate GPS unit, like with the Polar RCX3/RCX5, but they are almost out of line products. Actually, I have a RCX5 and had some problems with it, so I’m looking for a a new HRM.
Unfortunately, you’re largely seeing companies stop making those. About the only ‘current’y product is the women’s focused Bia Sport Watch.
Does anyone know of a GPS Running watch with a virtual partner mode and foot pod cadence that Does Not require a connection to the internet in order to download the gps timing/position data. When I’m away from home I very oftern don’t have access to the internet and still want to view the data. I also wan’t the ability to select which activities to upload onto the web. I currently use a Garmin Forerunner 305 but the battery life lets me down. Thanks
None of them require the internet to setup virtual partner. And none of the Garmin’s require the internet to view GPS tracks afterwards. You could use any of the Garmin devices with something like Sport Tracks to view offline.
Although I haven’t tested this, I believe the 910XT + Garmin Express requires internet access to load tracks from the watch. (The documentation says that fit file directory only gets populated after a successful upload to Garmin Connect.) However, you could still use Ant Agent with the 910XT. So Ray’s comment is still correct, but you might need to be selective in your software.
Hi Ray,
I had been waiting for your Fall trainer report but I just relocated to a remote part of Washington state and my weekday riding has come to a crashing stop so I’d like to get started on a trainer. Any chance you could let me know if the Kickr is still going to be your top high end recommendation?
Thanks,
David
No change in that particular category. Enjoy!
Should be out Tuesday. I had planned to publish this past Thursday, but one last training I was waiting to come in got slightly delayed.
Great – thanks!
hi
I’m looking for my first watch and i have a questions.
– “ANT+” or “bluetooth smart” which one should I take?
I doubt between the garminFR920Xt, Polar V800 and Suunto ambit3 peak.
Thanks
Jonas
Hi there,
Thanks for a great review. One question, do you know if any of these running/multisport gps watches support multiple users? I’d like to share mine with my wife.
thanks!
I know you are about to publish your fall recommendations, but do you know yet if the Wahoo Blue SC is both bluetooth low energy and ANT+ compatible yet? You mentioned that they were looking into it, but I am not finding anything on their site except the following note on the Blue SC site: “Dual-Technology: Both ANT+ and BLE capabilities allow it to connect to most smartphones and GPS bike computers simultaneously or separately”.
Since there is nothing else about it, and no external information, I didn’t know if you might know yet or know who to ask. I have put out a request to Wahoo for more info and if I have anything I can offer I will let you know!
Yup, they started shipping the new dual one last week to folks. The site is, as you noted, very slim on details, but fear not – all existing BlueSC v1 stock is now gone (they were selling it out first). So you’ll get the new dual version (mine just arrived on Friday).
I’m having trouble finding a lower or midrange GPS watch that also has interval training options (Basically, a timer). I have seen a product called gymboss which is reasonably priced yet my first choice is a product that is an “all in one” Any suggestions? Do you have any experience with the Gymboss?
I’d look at the Polar M400, which has a timer mode – great little GPS watch that also does activity tracking too!
Hi Ray,
Thanks for writing all these very interesting articles!
I’m waiting impatiently for your fall recommendations on Tri/hike/mulitsports watches (920xt vs. Ambit3), do you know when you will be able to publish it?
Thanks!
Matthieu
It would be post FR920XT In-Depth Review. I traditionally always have it out just before Thanksgiving in the US, so people can take advantage of various sale events that occur that weekend as part of Black Friday.
thanks for your quick answer!
So I’ve a new question: when will you publish your 920 in-depth review?!( I will have to make the choice between these watches in about a week…)
The first week of November.
I’m a mature female who’s never owned a running watch and is a technology laggard. I’ve signed up for 3 half marathons. I’m going to train by walking 12 weeks, then running 12 weeks before the first event. What would you recommend as the best low-tech, supportive electronics to keep me on task and aware of my progress as I train for these events? I’m doing this for health improvement and finishing three races in four weeks.
This must seem unbelievable but…..I’m stuck between two categories of HRM.
First of all I don’t own a smart phone and don’t plan of getting one. Second, I have no interested in gps functionality.
What I want is a HRM with up to 24 hours of battery life and a continuous HR read-out as opposed to average and max/min per lap. Connectivity to my computer with graphic display and training diary is “almost” a must.
It seems as though I’m between a rock and a hard place and have yet to find what I’m looking for.
I do own a Polar RS300x, which has all of what I want with an important exception: no continuous HR recording for graphic analysis. I don’t mind having the un-used capability of say, the FR 220 but it seems as though the mid-range and better units always have battery life too limited for my wants (endurance speed-hiking).
Can run the unit with GPS off and HRM working and then get up to 24 hours life? Or, is there a model I haven’t looked at yet?
If you can still get hold of one then a Garmin FR60 or FR70 may well do the job. The battery life is roughly a year (CR2032) but obviously would be reduced if you were recording 24/7. The only thing I don’t know is what the longest individual workout it can record is…
After looking up the review here and the specs I would leap at the FR70 IF I knew it would display, post-download on my computer, continuous (or near continuous) HR data.
It does. It’s just like the FR60 in that regard.
Thanks!
I’m in Canada and when I click the Amazon link it takes me to Amazon.ca but I always shop at Amazon.com, which is a lot cheaper usually. Got a way through that?
My first HRM cost me about $100 (20 years ago) and all it did was display you your HR, nothing else!
Hi Neil-
Sorry, I have automatic redirection enabled based on geographic locale. No worries though, if you get e-mail notifications then simply use this link:
Then from there you can search for the specific product and you’ll be good to go and still support the site:
link to amazon.com
Cheers.
Hi!
I have Garmin 910XT. I would like to monitorize my heart rate while swimming indoor. 910XT does not support HR while swimming but it has a lot of info. How would be the better method por HR monitorizing in the swimmingpool? Even if I have to use 2 devices, 910XT and other.
Thanks a lot.
There isn’t really a good solution there at the moment. You’d have to wear a second device – such as the Polar V800, and then you’d have to merge those files together in some 3rd party (such as Sport Tracks or Training Peaks).
Some have however reported doing so with the Wahoo TICKR X strap, which would be cheaper. Then exporting the data from the Wahoo App before manually merging it at 3rd party sites.
Thanks a lot Ray.
Hi
I want to buy my first multisport watch, the garmin920xt or the suunto ambit3 peak.
The big difference is ant+ / bluetooth smart. I like the Ambit3 but after some research i think it is better to buy the garmin because the ANT+ sensor. I hope to get some advice here.
grtz Jonas
I started running/power walking 3-4 days a week back in mid June. I carry my phone for music & endomondo. I am running my first half marathon in 2 weeks. My husband bought me the Garmin vivosmart 2 weeks ago. I am planning to return it. It is not consisitent with notifications and always under calculates distance by at least 1 mile. I am considering the Sony smartwatch 3 or possibly waiting for the Fitbit surge. Any thoughts on what to choose?
Absolutely brilliant reviews!!
I “m 62 and running and biking after a bit of a layoff. Having a few problems with my legs in running although recently completed Great North Run here in Uk. Looking for better speed running and spotted the Garmin FR 920 xt arriving in uk soon. Do you think the information it provides for self analysis would be usefull as my own personal trainer or am I wasting my £400 + on a whim. I don’t need the swimming stuff or the altimeter but my vision is not the best so big numbers, colour and vibration alerts may help me say yes. What do you think.
Kind regards
Geoff
It’s definitely a solid watch, though it might also be a bit overkill too. I’ll have my review up later this week, or, in the meantime you can read about it in my preview post here: link to dcrainmaker.com
Nice one on all of the reviews!
I have a question though which I’m not sure is covered anywhere and wondering if anyone can recommend a product that does this….
Are there any GPS watches that will give you an expected finishing time in a race? I don’t mean a race predictor that uses historic VO2 max data, I mean one that basically says “at your current pace you will finish this [10km] in [26m 32s] or at [1409hrs]” – does such a watch exist?!
The Magellan Switch does exactly this actually, though, I’m not sure I’d recommend that at this point. It’s a bit older.
On the flip side – all of the Garmin’s have the Virtual Partner, which will tell you how far off your pace you are. So not quite the same, but sorta similiar.
Based upon Ray’s review, the Polar M400 has the new Running Estimator feature.
I have read your reviews on gps watches. I just run but 3-4 months a year its indoors on a track due to snow. I cant decide between tom tom runner or the garmin forerunner 15 w/footpod or the garmin 220. I don’t care about heart rate just distance, time and pace and to download to runkeeper to track with friends. On reviews they all sound good. Help me decide.
Cracking website.
I recently saw the Jawbone Up24 and loved the thought of a sleep monitor and activity tracker, but without HR, a display nor mapping, I don’t see the benefit over a phone… Have I missed something?
I’d like to ramp up the cycling and start swimming again to compliment the running, so figured the Garmin 910XT would be a good start to best monitor activity, with the opportunity to expand with a HR wrist monitor etc etc… Whilst ensuring my initial investment wasn’t a waste.
I agree with you completely on the Jawbone options. I just don’t get it. I know that the Tech blogs love to fawn over it, but from a practical standpoint it just doesn’t make a lot of sense to me. And all of the ‘data analytics’ pieces everyone talks about are basically there for other units too.
I have just started doing half and full marathons. I am looking for a good watch that manages runs, time, etc. Really not techno smart but can pick up quickly. Looking for a really good quality watch and price does not really factor into it. Any advice/direction?
I, in a similar place to you Holly, but I’m cycling too. The Gar,in’s just seem to lead in this space… The 910XT seems a good choice but I’m really put off by how old it is.
So, between the Fenix 2 and Tom Tom Cardio… I’d like to start measuring my HR – never done this before – is an Optical HR monitor a). Accurate and B). Worth choosing the Tom Tom over a Fenix 2 bundle (I.e. With HR band included? I feel an entry on the xmas list coming but I’m totally confused.
I’d look at the FR920XT over the Fenix2 these days. As for the TomTom Cardio, I found the HR accuracy for me. Some might differ, but generally I get good feedback there.
Cracking.
It sounds like the XT series has stood the test of time; and if it’s good enough for you, I’ll hope to find one in my stocking!
I’ll avoid looking at those carbon frames..!
Thanks very much.
Hey,
I’m looking to purchase my first GPS watch for running. My local store has the 610 with HRM on sale for $20 less than the 220 with HRM. The 620 is rated over the 220 here but the 610 is a little older. Any suggestions for a newbie?
Utterly stumped.
Like earlier posts, I run, cycle and have just started swimming…
Saw the 920, and liked that it had everything, however, I’m pretty slight (6.5″ wrist) and I’m pretty sure I would look ridiculous with this on (I’d want something to always wear)?
I want something accurate for tracking where I’ve been.
I love the advanced metrics Garmin do with the HRM, which will help me improve my running form.
I’d like it to pick up cadence & speed from my bike,
If I can get swimming metrics, so much the better!
But I want to wear it as a watch too, so, for £400, would like to not look a clown?
Silly, but stumped! Advice & suggestions welcome!
You should also check out the Polar V800. It just got indoor swim metrics this past week. It’s not as advanced overall as the FR920XT, but, for many it’s pretty solid.
Thanks v much. Superb site may I add.
The Polar looks to be the same price for less stuff done not as well, but appreciate an alternative suggestion.
Hopefully somewhere in the UK will stock one so I can see it physically. And Amazon UK can then supply!
hi rain maker, is there any new garmin’s triathlon watch coming out lately? or maybe the fr910xt is still the latest? thanks
The FR910XT was replaced last month by the FR920XT: link to dcrainmaker.com
Hi everyone,
I’d like an opinion from the community. I’m new to running, and just trying to get active again. I want to reward myself for finishing a C25K by getting a watch that will last me many years. I don’t have much money, but am willing to buy the best if it makes sense to do so. I love hiking, which is why I am choosing running as a sport. I love swimming, so foresee getting into it as a sport as well, but not yet. I love cycling, but can’t imagine doing it as a sport for a long time (I move a lot but don’t actually have much money).
1. So, would you all recommend getting a Fenix 2, something cheaper since I’m only a beginner, or wait for manufacturers to find a better balance with technology? It’s no rush to buy it, but it sure would be nice to have something to train for a 10k with.
2. What do you feel would be most important for a beginner to track? HR, distance, speed, etc.?
Thanks everyone!
PS
Ray, thank you for sharing your passion with us.
Some feature I like/am considering:
• Heart Rate; I’m not convinced this is so important. Our bodies are pretty good at telling us what zone we are in. I’d prefer an optical one of course, but neither the Ambit 3 nor the Fenix 2 have them.
• Heart rate in pool; if the strap is nearly useless in a pool, then it’s pointless.
• Accelerometer or other non pod based tracking for running on a treadmill.
• Activity tracker; only as a bonus, this sounds like it could help me in the beginning to track calories/steps, etc. I can’t imagine using it for years on end though. Fenix doesn’t do this, and I’m not clear how the Ambit does.
• Navigation; I don’t really understand the benefit of hiking or running with navigation that doesn’t have a screen.
• GPS lock; I need this to be great because my phone is so bad that I am afraid to pay a lot of money for a unit that is as bad as my phone. That said, satellite coverage is not ideal outside my door.
• BAROMETRIC altitude; this would be cool but I can’t imagine actually needing such data for training, although I could be wrong.
I can’t think of anything more advanced that I need. I would appreciate recommendations on features for a beginner not mentioned, or ones that are completely unnecessary for me.
Thanks again.