Choosing the right GPS cycling computer can significantly enhance your riding experience, providing crucial data and navigation assistance. This comprehensive guide reviews six of the best GPS cycling computers available in 2024, each catering to different needs and budgets. From high-end devices packed with advanced features to more affordable options prioritizing simplicity, we’ll help you navigate the market and find the perfect fit for your cycling style. We'll delve into key features like battery life, navigation capabilities, sensor compatibility, and user-friendliness, providing a detailed comparison to help you make an informed decision.This review covers a range of options, from the feature-rich Garmin Edge 1030 and the aerodynamic Wahoo ELEMNT Bolt, to the power-focused Stages Dash and the Strava-integrated Polar M460. We also explore the video-recording capabilities of the Exos X5 Evo and the budget-friendly simplicity of the Lezyne Mini GPS. By the end of this guide, you'll be well-equipped to select the GPS cycling computer that best aligns with your individual riding goals and preferences.
Pros And Cons
- Seamlessly works with Stages power meters
- Wide array of data
- Clear, bright, large screen
- Mountable in two orientations
- Aluminum dash
- Lightweight (99g)
- Good battery life (25-30 hours)
- IP7 rating (rain protection)
- Customizable data pages (up to five pages)
- Limited navigational capabilities (basic breadcrumb route; turn-by-turn directions via future firmware update)
- No detailed mapping
- Bigger screen
- Longer run times than previous model
- Compatibility with Bluetooth smart sensors
- New features (Rider-to-rider messaging, training load analysis)
- 3.5-inch high-resolution touchscreen
- Ambient light sensors
- Extended battery life (claimed 20 hours, 40 with accessory)
- Compatible with wireless ANT+ plus sensors
- Displays data from various sensors (speed, cadence, heart rate, power meters)
- Compatible with Shimano Di2, SRAM Red eTap, Campagnolo EPS
- Serves as dashboard for Garmin smart lights and rearview radar
- Navigational compatibility
- Displays imported courses
- Garmin Cycle Map
- Treadline popularity routing
- 20-hour battery life is best-case scenario; real-world use may vary
- Compact
- Aerodynamic
- Vast amount of useful information
- Navigational compatibility
- Excellent battery life
- Reasonable price
- Communicates via ANT+, Bluetooth Smart, and Wi-Fi
- Compatible with iPhone, Android, and popular apps (Strava)
- Compatible with most sensors (heart rate, speed, cadence, power, muscle oxygen)
- Displays phone calls, messages, and email alerts (can be switched off)
- Works with Wahoo companion app
- Advanced features
- Good companion app (Polar Flow)
- Great Strava integration
- Smaller and lighter than M450
- Strava Live Segments integration
- Up to four data fields at once, six screens total (24 metrics)
- Good battery life (16 hours)
- Screen can feel cluttered
- Uses only GPS, not GNSS, leading to more dropouts compared to GNSS combo computers
Read more: Garmin Edge 530 Review: Best Value GPS Bike Computer?
Garmin Edge 1030: The Top-Tier GPS Cycling Computer
The Garmin Edge 1030 is a premium GPS cycling computer boasting a large, high-resolution touchscreen and extended battery life. Its compatibility with various sensors (heart rate, power meters, etc.) makes it a comprehensive training tool.
Beyond basic metrics, the Edge 1030 offers advanced features like reroute, rider messaging, and training load analysis. Navigation is a key strength, utilizing Garmin's cycle map, popularity routing, and course importing capabilities.
While the advertised 20-hour battery life is impressive, real-world usage may vary. The optional Garmin Charge integrated battery pack extends runtime to 40 hours for ultra-long rides.
Wahoo ELEMNT Bolt: Aerodynamic Design Meets Powerful Features
The Wahoo ELEMNT Bolt prioritizes aerodynamics with a compact design and seamless stem integration. Its claim to be the first aero cycling computer, while unsubstantiated, highlights its focus on minimizing wind resistance.
Despite its size, the Bolt provides comprehensive data from various sensors via ANT+, Bluetooth Smart, and Wi-Fi. It's compatible with popular apps like Strava and integrates smartphone notifications.
The ELEMNT Bolt's battery life is excellent, and its user-friendly interface and companion app make setup and data management straightforward. Customization options are extensive, allowing for personalized data screens.
Stages Dash: Power Meter Focus with Dual Mounting Options
Stages, known for its power meters, offers the Dash cycling computer. It integrates seamlessly with Stages power meters and displays a wide array of data on a clear, bright screen.
The Dash features a robust aluminum construction and dual mounting orientations, providing flexibility for customization. Battery life is impressive (25-30 hours), exceeding many competitors.
Navigation is limited; however, the Dash excels in providing power-focused training data. While lacking detailed mapping, its simplicity and focus on core training metrics is a strength for power-focused cyclists.
Polar M460: Strava Live Segments Integration and Compact Design
The Polar M460 is a compact GPS cycling computer with advanced features, a solid companion app (Polar Flow), and excellent Strava integration. Strava Live Segments integration offers real-time performance feedback.
The M460 provides up to four data fields per screen and a total of six screens per sport profile, allowing for comprehensive data tracking. Its all-black design is a sleek upgrade from previous models.
While the screen can feel somewhat cluttered, and its GPS-only system lacks the simultaneous GNSS capabilities of other devices, it still provides accurate data and a good battery life (around 16 hours). The lack of ANT+ connectivity is a notable drawback.
Exos X5 Evo: Video Recording Capabilities with Improved Specs
The Exos X5 Evo is an updated version of the X5, featuring a refined interface, doubled internal memory, and enhanced video recording capabilities (although resolution remains at 720p).
The removal of the SIM card slot simplifies the device, while the reduced price point makes it more competitive. The X5 Evo offers video functionality alongside standard GPS cycling computer features.
Its video recording capabilities are a unique selling point, although the lack of higher resolution video might deter some users. It provides a good balance of features at a more accessible price than its predecessor.
Lezyne Mini GPS: Simplicity and Affordability for Basic Needs
The Lezyne Mini GPS offers a straightforward, user-friendly experience for riders who prioritize simplicity over advanced features. It provides essential ride information with easy setup and use.
The Mini GPS boasts a customizable single screen and long battery life (up to 10 hours). Its lack of wireless sensor connectivity and navigational features makes it suitable for riders with basic needs.
For those seeking a no-frills, budget-friendly option, the Lezyne Mini GPS is a viable choice. However, its limitations might not suffice for users needing extensive data or navigation capabilities.
Conclusion: Choosing the Right Cycling Computer
The best GPS cycling computer depends on individual needs and budget. The Garmin Edge 1030 offers comprehensive features and advanced navigation, but comes at a premium. The Wahoo ELEMNT Bolt provides a strong balance of features and aerodynamics at a more moderate price.
Stages Dash focuses on power-based training, while the Polar M460 integrates well with Strava Live Segments. Exos X5 Evo stands out with its video recording capabilities, and the Lezyne Mini GPS is a great budget option for basic needs.
Consider your priorities: advanced navigation, power metrics, video recording, simplicity, or budget. Each of these top 6 cycling computers offers a unique set of features to meet diverse rider preferences.