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Outdoor activities can quickly go wrong if the person has no idea what they’re doing. Luckily, technology has produced many devices capable of keeping us on track while we’re out there.
Two of those devices come from Garmin, and they’re the Edge 25, and the Edge 130.
Since you don’t need both, in this article, we’ll clear out which is better pick between the Garmin Edge 25 and 130. Of course, we’ll need to review both products to reach a proper conclusion. Let’s start with the Edge 25.
Table of Contents
Garmin Edge 25 – Simple But Effective
This device is the perfect tool for cyclists that want to start using GPS devices during their adventures.
If you worry you won’t be able to keep track of time, distance traveled, speed, and your location, the Garmin Edge 25 is the perfect solution to keep you updated on your status at all times.
One of the reasons to love this device is its minimalist design. Because of that, you will be able to quickly figure out how everything works.
It only takes a few minutes navigating through the menus to know how to operate the Garmin Edge 25, meaning you’ll be ready to do your outdoor activities quicker.
Design
In fact, the small design of the device is one of the very first things you’ll notice. The screen size measures 2.3 x 2.3 cm, which is quite small even when compared to other similar devices. By weighing around 24g only, the device is also pretty lightweight.
As mentioned before, the design is minimalistic, which provides its own benefits too. With only four white buttons, navigating through the functions won’t be difficult.
These buttons, among other things, prove that the Edge 25 is a straightforward unit designed to get the job done.
Battery Life
If you ask the manufacturer, Garmin will claim that the Edge 25’s battery runs for eight hours straight.
While the durability depends on the use you put it through, the device has proven to go for six hours consistently.
Notice that we said the battery’s durability depends on use. You see, disabling certain functions like the GLONASS will deliver a slight increment in the running hours of this device.
Screen
The device features a screen that requires no effort to read. You can switch between a clock, 2 or 3-line data screen, a map, and more information easily.
Changing between screens produces a noticeable beep, which you can turn of if needed. Due to the large buttons, there’s no way you’ll miss it.
Performance
While using this device, riders have the opportunity to pick either GPS or GLONASS to keep track of their location.
Both systems prove to be efficient and fast, delivering precise data on the rider’s current location. After a few seconds, they’ll be ready to go on with their journey.
Navigation
Although the Edge 25 isn’t necessarily a navigation device per se, you still have some options to use it as such.
For example, there’s the option to download courses from the Garmin Connect, which is a straightforward process. Choosing the riding route is also pretty simple.
Settings & Compatibility
The device offers the options to change languages and the units, be it miles to kilometers or vice versa. Auto-pause, auto-scroll, and auto-laps are other settings featured by this device.
Additionally, you can establish a connection between the Edge 25 and a heart rate monitor to check your condition.
Furthermore, thanks to the Garmin Connect Mobile, sharing data from your activities to friends and family on social media is another possibility.
PROS
CONS
Related Guide: Edge 520 Buying Guide
Garmin Edge 130 – Doing More With Less
If you take a closer look at the high-end devices produced by Garmin, you’ll quickly notice that they offer a ton of features that riders may not even use in their entirety.
The Edge 130 is great because it doesn’t attempt to do that; Instead, it focuses on delivering what’s necessary.
Does this device successfully deliver on those promises, though? Fortunately for us, it does.
The Edge 130 is an incredible piece of technology that does more with less. Let’s take a look at the things you can expect once you get it.
Design
This device is a compact GPS bike computer featuring beautiful black design and functions easy to use.
The simplified build with a 1.8” display guarantees every rider using this device is well aware of their surroundings at all times, and keep track of essential information about their course.
With 33g of weight, it sure isn’t the lightest device, but its small measurements still make it portable enough to carry it with you wherever you go.
Battery Life
Similar to the previous device, the Garmin Edge 130 sets hard to reach expectations when it comes to battery life.
In the best-case scenario, the battery will last for an estimated time of 15 hours, but that’s not realistic for the most part.
If you’re using the device with many functions active, the expected running time is between 10 to 12 hours.
That’s not bad in the slightest, as it’d be enough to cover a week of riding, at least.
Naturally, the more sensors are on, the quicker the battery drains. Still, 10-12 hours of working time is a lot.
Screen
The 1.8” display of this device is incredible. Every bit of information is clear and legible, even if you’re checking it under the bright sunlight.
Yes, for some people, the size maybe a little too small, but the vast majority of riders will appreciate it.
Performance
In terms of getting your location accurately, the Garmin Edge 130 is one of the best to give you that information as soon as you request it.
By featuring multiple satellite systems such as GPS, GLONASS, and Galileo, riders will have the option to choose the system they prefer the most.
The altimeter included is yet another reason to like this device. Not only will you be able to know where you are or how you get there, but you’ll also have precise information on just how high above the ground level you are.
Navigation
Unfortunately, here’s when the flaws of this device start to show.
The device doesn’t have the base map installed, meaning that it isn’t a good navigation tool such as the 800 or 1000 series.
If you need a map, you’ll have to download it from the Garmin Connect app.
This process is quick, and it’ll provide you lines to follow as well as clear indications like upcoming turns.
Besides the option to download routes, users also can use the back-to-start function.
Using this feature helps you go back the same route you did before, or go back in a straight line.
Settings and Compatibility
If you’re looking for a versatile device, the Edge 130 is a good pick. This tool is compatible with a variety of helpful sensors, such as heart rate, cadence, and more.
Additionally, you can use the connections with other devices to display notifications for weather, and more.
Live Track is also available, allowing riders to share location and their status while doing their activities.
Lastly, you can use the device to connect to Garmin Connect’s online community, where you can share and check the information that may improve your condition.
PROS
CONS
Related Comparison: Garmin Edge 1030 vs 830
Garmin Edge 25 or Edge 130?
Do you want to know which are the differences between these two devices? Let’s check them out!
Design
Although both devices look fairly similar, the Edge 25 is lighter, and its minimalist design is far better for newer users.
The Edge 130, on the other side, is a little heavier, but it compensates for that with an incredible screen and more features.
Display
In this regard, the Edge 130 is the superior choice. It offers a better and easier to read display even when the conditions are less than ideal.
Plus, the 4-line screen is more efficient at delivering data when compared to the 3-line screens offered by the Edge 25.
Performance
While the Edge 25 lasts about 6 hours, the Edge 130 will go on for around 12 hours.
Additionally, the Edge 130 model offers more features, such as the ability to download custom apps, check routes and history, weather display, power meter, temp recording, and many more.
Conclusion
Despite being a little heavier and larger than the Edge 25, the Edge 130 comes on top as the most efficient device for riders.
The number of features offered by this device far outshines what the Edge 25 has to offer, and the battery life makes it all even better.
After finishing the article, you’re now in a better position to choose between the Garmin edge 25 and 130.