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Modern cyclists would feel blind going out on a ride without sophisticated GPS cycling computers.
They accurately tell you about your position and the routes you can take. Besides, you’ll be able to track your speed and duration. They come as a blessing to any data geek!
Garmin is widely recognized for its expertise in making top-notch bike computers.
Their Edge Explore and the Edge 830 models are leading the market currently.
You’re probably engaged in a scorching Garmin Edge Explore and 830 debate with yourself but can’t seem to come down to a conclusion.
Well, don’t worry as we’ll hook you up with everything you need to know to make the best decision!
Table of Contents
Garmin Edge Explore vs 830 – Comparison of 2021
| Model | Garmin Edge Explore | Garmin Edge 830 |
|---|---|---|
| PHYSICAL DIMENSIONS | 4.1″ x 2.2″ x 0.9″ | 1.9” x 3.2” x 0.8” |
| TOUCHSCREEN | Yes | Yes |
| COLOR DISPLAY | Yes | Yes |
| DISPLAY SIZE | 3.0″ (76.0 mm) diagonal | 2.6″ (66 mm) diagonal |
| DISPLAY RESOLUTION | 240 x 400 pixels | 246 x 322 pixels |
| BATTERY TYPE | rechargeable lithium-ion | rechargeable lithium-ion |
| BATTERY LIFE | up to 12 hours | up to 20 hours |
| ABILITY TO ADD MAPS | Yes | Yes |
| HISTORY | 200 hours | up to 200 hours |
| GALILEO | No | Yes |
| BAROMETRIC ALTIMETER | No | Yes |
| ACCELEROMETER | Yes | Yes |
| GLONASS | No | Yes |
| AMBIENT LIGHT SENSOR | No | Yes |
| CONNECTIVITY | Bluetooth®, ANT+® | Bluetooth®, ANT+®, Wi-Fi® |
| SMART NOTIFICATIONS | No | Yes |
| SMARTPHONE COMPATIBILITY | No | Yes |
| BIKE ALARM | No | Yes |
| INREACH® COMPATIBLE | No | Yes |
| RECOVERY ADVISOR | No | Yes |
| VIRTUAL PARTNER | No | Yes |
| RACE AN ACTIVITY | No | Yes |
| MTB DYNAMICS | No | Yes |
| ITEM DIMENSIONS | 4.1 x 0.7 x 2.2 inches | 3.2 x 0.8 x 1.9 inches |
| PRICE | Check Price | Check Price |
Garmin Edge Explore
Let’s start right off the bat with the famous Garmin Edge Explore! The enticing specifications of this one are most likely having you drool all over it already.
Well, hold your horses as we’ll dive deeper to present even sweeter things about it.
You’ll get to know the cons as well by the time you’re done reading!
Setting this device up is as simple as it takes so, you’ll have it ready to serve you in mere seconds! The 3” highly responsive touchscreen remains bright enough for you to see even under direct sunlight.
So, you won’t have to scrutinize every time you want to see your progress!
This gadget feels just as responsive even if you’re wearing gloves.
Don’t worry about protecting it during rainy days as this thing’s designed to be rain-friendly as well.
Coming preloaded with Garmin’s very own cycle map feature, this model will enrich your cycling adventures.
It will tell you about the most popular cycling routes. From scenic countryside to smart shortcuts, this unit will direct you to just about anything! Thanks to the turn-by-turn directions, you’ll never lose your way!
The Edge Explore is perfectly compatible with a wide range of the company’s own cycling awareness devices.
For instance, you can set it up with smart bike lights to alert drivers or a radar to keep an eye on the vehicles behind you.
This cycling equipment can easily pair up with your smartphone to unlock incredible features like LiveTrack that lets your family know where you are.
It allows you to stay connected with up to 50 bikers and communicate with them through texts on the go!
PROS
CONS
Latest Comparison: Garmin Edge Explore vs. 530
Garmin Edge 830
Now, let’s talk about the more expensive Garmin Edge 830 model. Is it really worth the extra dollars? This one comes with a slick design and super impressive features.
Whether you’re planning to ride on the road or go off the road on a mountain biking adventure, it will come in handy!
This gadget provides accurate dynamic performance insights that others fail to deliver. Once paired up with the right sensors, it will be showing you how you’re performing under specific conditions.
It will even tell you when to hydrate or eat! You’ll be able to compare your performance to take note of your progress as well.
Safety is something that this unit is greatly concerned with. To make sure you stay with your group all the time, it’s equipped with flawless group messaging and tracking systems.
Thanks to Varia safety awareness devices’ compatibility, you can easily hook it up with safety devices like bike lights and rearview radars.
Not sure which route to take? Allow the Garmin Edge 830 to present you the most popular routes to you, set by your fellow riders! It will flawlessly direct you to wherever you want to go using the turn-by-turn navigation alert feature.
For all the mountain bikers out there, this model is well-equipped to tell you all you need to know about the mountain biking tracks.
Just download the Trailforks app and instantly be aware of the road conditions and even their difficulties! Additionally, this device can even keep track of your jumping distances!
PROS
CONS
Related Guide: Garmin Forerunner 645 vs. Fenix 5
Garmin Edge Explore or Edge 830?
Now you know what both of them have to offer. We’ll perform a direct comparison to help you decide easier!
Display
The Edge Explore has a slightly larger display compared to the 830. It’s pretty bright and easy to read.
However, the 830 looks slicker and more refined with a bit more responsive touchscreen.
Suggested Comparison: Edge 500 vs. 520
Performance Tracking
You’d be able to easily track your speed, distance, time, and the like with the Edge Explore.
However, the 830 offers more options when it comes to performance tracking, at an increased price.
GPS Tracking and Group Messaging
Both of the models are equipped with Garmin Cycle Map for better and smoother navigation.
However, it’s comparatively easier to do group messaging on the Explore, thanks to its larger display.
Battery Life
This is where the 830 shines the most as it offers 20 hours of battery life. The Edge Explore drains out of battery comparatively faster. So, the 830 is the one to go for if you want longer battery life.
Mountain Biking
The 830 comes with a unique feature dedicated to mountain bikers. With it, you can find more information about the mountain biking tracks.
It will also record your jump counts as well as your jump distances. This is something the Edge Explore is missing.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are bike computers really that important?
If you’re a regular cyclist, you’d want to track your riding progress.
You can’t do that without a bike computer. It’s even more essential if you’re training for a race or fitness. They can help you stay on the route without losing your way.
Can I add extra batteries to the Edge Explore?
Unfortunately, no. One lithium-ion battery is all you can add to power this device up.
Make sure to fully recharge it before going out on a ride!
How difficult are these devices to mount?
Not difficult at all! You can set them up and go out on a ride in just seconds after unboxing them.
Which model is better for mountain biking?
You’d have to go for the 830 if mountain biking is your priority.
It comes with specific features designed for off-road biking that the Edge Explore lack.
Is it possible to use my smartphone as a bike computer?
There are several apps that can turn your smartphone into a bike computer.
However, they cannot perform as good, and the results may not be as accurate. That’s why the pros stick with bike computers.
Conclusion
This concludes our take on the Garmin Edge Explore and 830 debate. Both of these models are excellent in their fields.
They will make your rides more worthwhile and increase safety. Just think about your needs and go with the one that appeals to you the most!