Garmin Edge Explore vs. 1030 – Comparison in 2023
Love them or hate them, but you’ve got to admit that Garmin has successfully brought a substantial amount of usability, capability, and functionality into the world of cycling computers.
Now, given that Garmin has created a lot of different equally amazing GPS computers, we understand that it can get very overwhelming to select the right one.
Thus, we decided to research the market and find the top two best-selling GPS computers by Garmin.
This is why we’d like to present our review and comparison of the Garmin Edge Explore vs.
1030. Both of these robust devices are packed with great features, which explains why they’re both Garmin’s top-selling GPS computers.
Without further ado, let’s learn about these devices and learn how they’re different from each other.
Garmin Edge Explore vs 1030 Comparison in 2023
| Model | Edge Explore | Edge 1030 |
|---|---|---|
| COLOR DISPLAY | Yes | Yes |
| DISPLAY SIZ | 3.0″ (76.0 mm) diagonal | 3.5″ (88.9 mm) diagonal |
| DISPLAY RESOLUTION | 240 x 400 pixels | 282 x 470 pixels |
| BASEMAP | Yes | Yes |
| GLONASS | No | Yes |
| GALILEO | No | Yes |
| WEIGHT | 4.1 oz (116 g) | 4.1 oz (116 g) |
| BATTERY LIFE | up to 12 hours | up to 12 hours |
| GPS | Yes | Yes |
| WEATHER | No | Yes |
| PRICE | Check Price | Check Price |
Garmin Edge Explore
Are you in search of the perfect travel budding to accompany your riding trips? Then we would like to introduce you to the Edge Explore by Garmin.
This cutting edge cycling computer packed with great features such as LiveTrack and Trendline to come in assistance to anyone who is exploring an unfamiliar area.
And this device features a simple user interface as it was created for tourists.
But the computer will still provide you with useful features like recording the speed, cycling time, distance covered and to cover, and more.
It will even give you the option to train with it by offering optional feature purchases such as heart rate measuring and cadence counting, amongst other options.
You can also use the device to share your collected data with your training partners.
The somewhat large size of the device makes it easy to read the map and other instructions effortlessly.
You can operate the device even during rain and also wearing gloves yes, it’s very user friendly.
One of the best features of the device is that it’s integrated with both American and Russian GPS satellites.
Moreover, in case you decide to go off course for any reason, the map will resume its work after you go back on track. Amazing, isn’t it?
When it comes with creating or selecting different routes, the device will give you a few different options, such as creating your own route, selecting from the given route, opting for circular routes (in case you want to get some miles in), or integrate it with other route planning applications/websites.
Apart from navigation, you can use this computer for other purposes, such as sending emergency texts via your cellphone.
You can also purchase other built-in features such as approaching car detection, recording power wattage, and more.
Now, the device is able to deliver all of these functions for a good period of time.
The battery is said to last for 12 hours, even if you use it continuously. Whilst the pricing is just the icing on top.
PROS
CONS
Related Guide: Garmin Edge 130 vs 530
Garmin Edge 1030
The Edge 1030 is probably the best cycling computer that has been created by Garmin.
It boasts a distinctive design and features such as tracking and recording every kind of cycling metric that you know of and more!
To start off, this unit has a 3.5in screen, and all the buttons have been relocated to the bottom of the device.
This is something we personally loved as it makes using the unit a lot easier.
Well, this device has a lot to offer – so much that it may take you some time to wrap your head around it.
However, you can customize the layout to your choice and convenience. Brilliant, right?
And the navigation system of this unit is as sophisticated and advanced as it can get.
It comes with a detailed map that will not only give you turn-by-turn instructions but will also send alerts for upcoming sharp bends.
You have the option to upload your preferred routes or create new routes while on the go by using the Course Creator in which the device will show the best path to be used.
While another option is to choose the Round-Trip Course, which will provide you with different routes to discover.
Once you have your phone and Wi-Fi paired with the computer, it’ll do most of the work for you.
For example, it’ll automatically upload all the data collected from the ANT+ sensors, LiveTrack, Grouptrack, and more.
Additionally, you can also use the device to send short texts to other users.
Moreover, you will get the best use of Stravs Premium from using this robust device.
Not only will you get second-by-second tracking of your rides, but you will also be able to compare your real-time activity with previous ones.
Apart from using the already installed applications, you can download other third-party applications.
To top it off, the device has been equipped with a 1900mAh battery, and thus, you can enjoy up to 20 hours of service at a go.
PROS
CONS
Related Comparison: Edge Explore vs Edge 520
Garmin Edge 1030 or Edge Explore?
It’s understandable to get confused between these two great options. Thus, we created a comparison list for your benefit. Continue reading to learn more!
Design
While both of these sets have a similar shape, the Edge 1030 is slightly larger, has a bigger screen, and is significantly slimmer. The Edge Explore, on the other hand, is slightly lighter in weight.
Battery
The battery life of the Edge Explore is quite good, considering it gives up to 12 hours of service.
However, the battery life of the Edge 1030 is unlike any other models. It features a 1900mAh battery that delivers up to 20 hours of service.
Display
The display of the Edge Explore is one of the best out of all their models. It boasts an easy-to-operate touchscreen display, which has a great resolution.
On the other hand, the non-touchscreen display of the Edge 1030 has better pixel resolution than the former model.
User-Friendliness
Both of the computers come packed with some great features, which already makes it a bit tricky to use.
However, you have the option to customize the device in accordance with your preference.
We should inform you that the Edge 1030 is a lot easier to customers than the other.
Mapping & Navigation
Mapping and navigation are excellent in both of these computers. Now, given that the Edge Explore was built for tourism, it provides better routes and easier to navigate maps.
Additionally, it works with two different GPS to ensure proper and correct routes are being provided.
That being said, you will find a lot more options and different sorts of mapping and routing in the Edge 1030, such as on-device course creation.
Tracking & Recording Data
You will get great tracking and recording data from the Edge 1030 as this was built to be an all-rounder cycling computer (also be used for training).
But, since the Edge Explore was created for tourists, most of these features are either unavailable or requires further in-app purchase.
Related Topic: Garmin Edge 830 Review
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Here we have the most commonly asked queries regarding the two products:
Can these devices be used in Asia?
If you want to use these devices in Asia, all you will need to do is download the map and set it up accordingly.
Do I need to purchase additional sensors to detect cadence and speed?
As long as the GPS is working properly, you won’t require to purchase anything extra for detecting and recording speed. However, you may buy cadence sensors for computers.
Will I be able to update the maps?
You will easily be able to update the maps through the Garmin Express tool.
Can I track how many calories I burn during my riding sessions?
The app comes with the setting that will show you how many calories you’ve burned during a ride.
Do the products come with an international warranty?
If you purchase the unit from an authorized Garmin dealer, you will receive an international warranty.
Final Verdict
All in all, we can conclude that both of these bicycle computers are great at delivering what they were created for.
If you are looking for the perfect travel buddy in the form of a GPS computer, then you should definitely go for the Edge Explore. Moreover, it’s cheaper as well.
However, if you want a GPS computer for your daily rides or for training purposes, then the Edge 1030 will be your best bet.
That being said, you really can’t go wrong with either of them. Good luck with your purchase and let us know in the comments how much you liked our Garmin Edge Explore vs. 1030 comparison guide.