• Home
  • SUBSCRIBE!
  • Garmin Edge Bike Computers
    • Garmin Edge Bike Computers Compared
      • Garmin Edge 1040 vs 1030 Plus: What’s the Difference?
      • ALL GARMIN EDGE BIKE COMPUTERS COMPARED: 130 Plus vs Explore vs 530 vs 830 vs 1030 Plus
      • Garmin Edge 1040 vs 1030 Plus vs 830 vs 530 Bike Computers: In-Depth Comparison, Reviews and Videos
      • Garmin Edge 530 vs 830: What’s the Difference?
      • Garmin Edge 1030 Plus vs Garmin Edge 1030. What’s the Difference?
      • Garmin Edge 1030 Plus vs. 130 Plus – Premium vs. Budget Bike Computers
      • Garmin Edge 830 vs 820: What’s the Difference?
    • Which is the Best Garmin Edge Bike Computer?
      • Which Garmin Edge Bike Computer has the Longest Battery Life?
      • Which Garmin Edge Bike Computer is Best for Mountain Biking?
    • Are Garmin Edge Bike Computers Worth It?
    • Garmin Edge vs. Wahoo Bike Computers
      • Garmin Edge 530 vs Wahoo ELEMNT Bolt
      • Garmin Edge 130 Plus vs Wahoo ELEMNT Bolt: Which is Better?
      • Garmin Edge 520 Plus vs Wahoo ELEMNT
    • 9 Great Upgrades to the Garmin Edge 530
    • 9 New Features in the Garmin Edge 830
    • The New Garmin Enduro Smart Watch – a Good Choice for Cyclists?
  • About
    • Start Here!
    • Contact Us
  • Product Reviews
    • 7 Great Budget Bikes You Can Buy on Amazon in 2023
    • 7 of the Best Budget E-bikes under $1000 for 2023
    • Bike Computer Reviews
      • 7 of the Best Budget Bike Computers for 2023
      • All Garmin Edge Bike Computers Compared: Edge 130 Plus vs Explore 2 vs 530 vs 830 vs 1030 Plus vs 1040
      • Best Cheap Bike Computers Under $65 – Includes Budget Wireless Computers
      • Best Bike Computers – Includes CatEye, Garmin, and Wireless Bike Computers
      • Quick Links to our Best Posts about Bike Computers
    • Cycling Gear Reviews
      • How to Choose the Best Cycling Balaclava
        • 7 of the Best Cycling Balaclavas to Keep Your Head Warm this Winter
      • 7 of the Best Waterproof Cycling Jackets for Men and Women
        • 7 of the Best Women’s Cycling Jackets – Waterproof and Windproof
        • The Three Different Kinds of Cycling Jackets
        • Showers Pass Elite 2.1 Waterproof Cycling Jacket Review
        • Best Cheap Cycling Jackets under $100
        • Best Windproof Cycling Jackets
      • 7 of the Best Waterproof Cycling Pants for Men and Women
        • Showers Pass Rogue Cycling Pants – Review by Mrs. Average Joe Cyclist
        • 3 Regular-Looking Pants that Work Well as Cycling Pants
      • Best Waterproof Cycling Gear for Men and Women
      • 7 of the Best Cycling Jerseys
        • Two of the Best Women’s Cycling Jerseys: Pearl Izumi and Sugoi
      • 7 of the Best Dog Bike Baskets and Dog Carriers
      • Adidas Cycling Glasses – Review after Eight Years of Use
      • The New Garmin Enduro Smart Watch – Is it a Good Choice for Cyclists?
    • Garmin Edge and Wahoo Bike Computers
      • Garmin Edge Bike Computers Compared: Versus Posts!
        • ALL GARMIN EDGE BIKE COMPUTERS COMPARED: 130 Plus vs Explore vs 530 vs 830 vs 1030 Plus
      • Garmin Edge vs. Wahoo Bike Computers
        • Wahoo ELEMNT Bolt vs. Garmin Edge 130 Plus Bike Computers: In-Depth Comparison, with Videos
        • Garmin Edge 520 Plus vs Wahoo ELEMNT
      • Garmin Varia Vision and Varia Rear Light Radar
      • How to Upload Your Bike Rides to Strava While Garmin Connect is Down
    • Bike Pannier Reviews
      • 7 of the Best Waterproof Bike Panniers
      • Review of the Two Wheel Gear Convertible Pannier/Backpack
      • Best Waterproof Bike Panniers for Touring and Commuting: Ortlieb Bike Panniers
      • Two Wheel Gear Classic 3.0 Garment Pannier for Bike Commuters – Review by Mrs. Average Joe Cyclist
      • Best Commuter/Bike Touring Panniers: Two Wheel Gear Classic 3.0 Garment Pannier Review
    • Bike Light Reviews
      • Complete Guide to Bike Lights
        • Best Budget Bright Bike Headlight – Lumintrail Review
        • Best Bike Light under $40 – Serfas Thunderbolt Tail Light Review
        • 7 of the Best Bike Lights for Night Riding and Commuting in 2023
        • Reelight Rl721 Bike Lights Review – Lights that are ALWAYS on
        • How to Choose the Best Bike Light
      • When to Use Flashing Bike Lights
      • Quick Links to Our Best Posts about Bike Lights
    • Bike Saddle Reviews
      • 9 of the Best Road Bike Saddles for 2023
      • How to Choose the Right Bike Saddle
      • Zacro Gel Seat Cover – a Budget Solution for Saddle Discomfort
    • Headphone Reviews
      • Best Headphones for Safe Cycling
      • Aftershokz XTrainerZ Headphones – Open-Ear, Bone Conduction, Safe Headphones for Cycling AND Swimming
      • Review – AfterShokz Trekz Cordless Open Ear Bone Conduction Headphones for Safe Cycling
      • Jaybird Tarah Wireless Headphones Review
    • 7 Reasons to Use a Power Meter on Your Bike
  • Bike Computer Reviews
    • Best Cheap Bike Computers Under $65 – Includes Budget Wireless Computers
    • Garmin Edge Bike Computers
      • Garmin Edge Bike Computers Compared
        • ALL GARMIN EDGE BIKE COMPUTERS COMPARED: 130 Plus vs Explore vs 530 vs 830 vs 1030 Plus
        • Garmin Edge 1030 Plus vs Garmin Edge 1030. What’s the Difference?
      • Garmin Edge vs. Wahoo Bike Computers
        • Garmin Edge 530 vs Wahoo ELEMNT Bolt
        • Wahoo ELEMNT Bolt vs Garmin Edge 130 Plus Bike Computers: In-Depth Comparison, with Videos
        • Garmin Edge 520 Plus vs Wahoo ELEMNT
        • Garmin Edge 520 vs. Wahoo ELEMNT
    • 7 of the Best Budget Bike Computers for 2023
    • Quick Links to our Best Posts about Bike Computers
    • Best Bike Computers – Includes CatEye, Garmin, and Wireless Bike Computers
    • 9 Great Upgrades to the Garmin Edge 530 – Garmin’s Game-Changing GPS Bike Computer
  • Health Benefits
    • Cycling Weight Loss
      • A Guide for Fat Cyclists
      • How Cycling Can Help You to Lose Weight
      • The Top 10 Ride Your Way Lean Eating Rules, for Effective Weight Loss
      • 7 Steps to Lose Weight Cycling
      • How Many Calories Do You Burn Cycling?
      • How Many Calories Can You Burn Riding an Ebike?
      • Top 10 Tips to Lose Weight Cycling
      • Our Best Lose Weight with Cycling Posts
      • Intermittent Fasting, Cycling, HIIT, and Weight Loss
    • Cycling and Aging
      • Science Shows HIIT on a Bike is the Best Exercise to Fight Aging – And We Show You How to Do it!
      • 5 Great Reasons to Take Up Cycling During Retirement
      • Science Says Exercise is a Miracle Cure and Protects You from Diseases
      • Science Proves Cycling Can Help You to Stay Strong as You Age
      • Science Shows that Cycling Really Does Fight Aging
      • 7 Tips to Help You Keep Mountain Biking after Age 40
      • Case Studies: Three Seniors who Regained their Health with E-Bikes
    • Cycling Knee Pain
      • 5 Doctor’s Tips to Start Cycling Again after Knee Replacement Surgery
      • Video: 3 Exercises for Cycling Knee Pain
      • 7 Ways to Prevent Cycling Knee Pain
      • How to Cure Cycling Knee Pain with a Miraculous, Cheap Cure
    • Cycling and Strength
      • Top 7 Strength Building Exercises for Cyclists
      • 5 Great Strength Exercises for Cyclists
      • Science Says Cycling Can Help You to Stay Strong as You Age
      • How Strength Training Can Boost Your Cycling Speed and Quality of Life
    • Cycling and Sleep
      • How Cycling Helps You to Sleep Better and Get Healthier
      • One in Three Cyclists Experience Reduced Stress Levels
      • Why Cycling May Be the Sleep Aid You Need
      • How I Became a Bike Commuter and Shed Stress Immediately
    • Cycling and Brain Health
      • Science Shows Five Ways that Cycling Boosts Your Brain Function
      • Research shows that cycling makes your brain grow
    • Kids biking
      • 7 Easy Steps to Teach a Child to Ride a Bike
      • 7 of the Best Baby and Child Bike Seats to Keep Your Child Safe – Reviews and Videos
      • 7 Tips for Parents to Keep your Kids Safe on their Bikes
      • How to Transport Kids on Bikes (Video and Infographic)
      • Babies and Bikes: How to Get Kids Active from the Start
      • How to Encourage Kids to Ride Bikes
        • How to Help your Kids Bike to School
A Blog for Average People who LOVE to ride bikes!

Average Joe Cyclist

A Blog for Average People who LOVE to ride bikes!

  • Cycling Training Plans
    • Our Most Successful Cycling Training Plans
    • How to Get Bike Fit: Complete Bike Training Plan
    • Average Joe Cyclist’s Beginner Cyclist Training Plan: Phase 1
    • Average Joe Cyclist’s Beginner Cyclist Training Plan: Phase 2 – Interval Training
    • Average Joe Cyclist’s Beginner Cyclist Training Plan: Phase 3 – Preparing for Your First Race
    • 7 Reasons to do High Intensity Interval Training (HIIT) on Your Bike – and How to Do It
    • Top 7 Strength Building Exercises for Cyclists
    • Science Shows HIIT on a Bike is the Best Exercise to Fight Aging – And We Show You How to Do it!
    • Workouts and Stretching for Cyclists
      • Complete Guide to Stretching for Cyclists
      • Stop Doing Crunches! 10 Minute Complete Core Workout for Cyclists
      • Updated Video: 3 Hip Stretches to Cure Cycling Hip Pain
      • 5 Benefits of Cross Training for Cyclists
    • How to Protect Your Testosterone Levels from Over-Training
    • Research shows Amazing Benefits of Sprint Intervals in Cycling
  • Indoor Cycling Training
    • 7 of the Best Budget Indoor Bike Trainers
    • 5 of the Best Smart Indoor Trainers for Effective Indoor Training
    • How to Set Up a Zwift Indoor Training System on Any Budget
    • Guide to Smart Turbo Indoor Trainers
    • How to Get Started with Stationary Biking: A Guide to Stationary Bikes
  • Cycling with Dogs
    • 7 of the Best Dog Bike Baskets and Dog Carriers
    • How to Train Your Dog to Safely Run Next to You When You Are Cycling
    • Complete Guide to Taking Your Dog on Bike Rides in a Bike Basket
    • 6 Steps to Gently Train Your Dog to Go On Bike Rides With You
  • Lose Weight!
    • Cycling and Weight Loss
      • 7 of the Best Budget Indoor Bike Trainers for 2023
      • 5 Quick and Easy Tips to Lose Weight Cycling
    • Our Best Lose Weight with Cycling Posts
    • Cycling Nutrition
      • Best Matcha Tea for Cyclists: My Matcha Life
        • How to Make Matcha Tea
      • How Protein Helps your Post Bike Ride Recovery
      • 5 Best Protein Supplements for Exercise Recovery and Health
    • Cycling Training Plans
      • How to Set Up a Zwift Indoor Training System on Any Budget
      • Average Joe Cyclist’s Beginner’s Bike Training Plan
    • Cycling and Health
  • Tips & How-Tos
    • How to Prevent & Cure Cycling Knee Pain
      • Video: 3 Exercises for Cycling Knee Pain
      • 5 Doctor’s Tips to Start Cycling Again after Knee Replacement Surgery
    • How to Change Gears on a Bike – Beginner’s Guide
    • Bike maintenance
      • How to Fix a Flat Bike Tire
      • How to Get Your Bike Ready for Safe Winter Cycling
    • Top 10 Tips to Keep your Bike from being Stolen
    • Smart Phone vs a Bike Computer for Recording Bike Rides – Which is Better?
    • How to Set Up a Zwift Indoor Training System on Any Budget
    • Do You Need a Cycling Jersey?
    • Complete Guide to How to Buy and Sell Bikes on Craigslist
      • How to Buy Used Bikes on Craigslist (and Other Online Marketplaces)
    • How to Understand Bike Terminology
    • 5 Things You Need to Know about Hydration for Cyclists
      • Hydration for Cycling – How Much Fluid do You Need?
  • Bike Commuting
    • Bike Commuting Tips
      • Top 10 Tips on How to Avoid a Sore Butt from Cycling
      • How Women Cyclists Can Prevent Saddle Soreness and Associated Issues
      • How to Choose the Best Bike Light
      • The 7 Biggest Mistakes People Make When They Try to Start Bike Commuting
      • 7 Tips for Going Car-Free
      • Can Cycling Cause Penis Numbness, Erectile Dysfunction, and Prostate Cancer?
      • Best Bike Light under $40 – Serfas Thunderbolt Tail Light Review
      • 5 Ways to Stay Visible in Traffic When Cycling
      • The 7 Biggest Mistakes People Make When They Try to Start Bike Commuting
      • 7 Helpful Tips for New Bike Commuters – Don’t Start Bike Commuting Until You Read This!
    • Winter Cycling
      • Safe Winter Cycling – How to Cycle Safely in the Winter
      • How to Dress for Winter Cycling – Cycling Clothes that will Keep You Warm and Dry
      • Our Top Tips to Keep You Warm and Dry for Fall and Winter Cycling
      • How to Get Your Bike Ready for Safe Winter Cycling
      • Quick Links to Our Best Posts about Cold Weather Cycling
    • Safety for Cyclists
      • Top 10 Tips to Not Get Hit by a Car on Your Bike
      • When to Use Flashing Bike Lights
      • 7 of the Best Bike Lights for Night Riding and Commuting
      • Aftershokz XTrainerZ Headphones – Open-Ear, Bone Conduction, Safe Headphones for Cycling AND Swimming
      • Best Budget Bright Bike Headlight – Lumintrail Review
    • Benefits of Being a Bike Commuter
      • Survey Shows London Bike Commuters are Happier and More Productive
      • What Is the Function of Myelin in the Body?
      • Research shows that cycling makes your brain grow
    • Bike Maintenance
      • How to Get Your Bike Ready for Safe Winter Cycling
      • How To Clean Your Bike Chain the Easy Way
      • How to Fix a Flat Bike Tire
      • Inspirational Video: How to Fix a Bike Flat – with No Hands
    • Cycling Infrastructure
      • 3 Reasons Why We Need Separated Bike Lanes
      • Research reveals a surprising benefit of separated bike lanes
      • Montreal Cycling, Part 3: Separated Bike Lanes – What Other Cities can Learn from Montreal
      • Cycling and the Post-Covid Transformation
You are here: Home / Average Joe Cyclist Product Reviews / Bike Computer Reviews / 7 of the Best Bike Computers for 2023 – from Budget to Premium

7 of the Best Bike Computers for 2023 – from Budget to Premium

January 11, 2023 by Average Joe Cyclist Leave a Comment

Pin
Share
Tweet

Avatarwp-user-avatar wp-user-avatar-96 photoThis post with videos compares 7 of the best bike computers available, ranging from budget to premium. There are so many great bike computers that choosing one can be overwhelming. This post will help you figure out what works for your needs. It includes a handy comparison chart of the features of each bike computer. These bike computers made the list for one of two reasons: either because they are really cheap yet can do the essential functions; or because they offer an impressive range of features.

Chart Comparing 7 of the Best Bike Computers

Bike Computer
Overview
What it does - Features
Price
No. 1: CatEye Velo 9
No. 1: CATEYE VELO 9
Best Cheap but Very Capable and Popular Option

Wired
Current, average, and maximum speed; trip distance; elapsed time; and odometer. The CatEye Velo 9 is an upgrade on an old favorite. The upgrade features a larger screen; simplified setup with pre-programmed tire sizes; calorie consumption; and carbon offset measurement. Features simple 1-button operation. Mount with a supplied universal bracket. Automatically pauses when you stop at stop streets or red lights. Simple set-up with pre-programmed tire sizes. Battery lasts up to 3 years!Wired Option: $31.95
Wireless Option: Around $10 to $20 more - Please click here for current price
No. 2: GARMIN EDGE 530
Best Premium Bike Computer

Wireless
Current, average, & maximum speed; trip distance; total distance; elapsed time; time of day; calories burned; GPS tracking; elevation changes; live tracking; smart alerts; new advanced performance & power analysis. Advanced training features. Turn-by-turn directions to Saved Places, places found on Yelp, and downloaded routes. Preloaded with Garmin Cycle Maps. Twice as fast as previous Edge computers. New features: ClimbPro; Mountain Biking Metrics, and fully integrated Trailforks app; new Performance Metrics; Water & calorie requirements; Better Structured Workouts; Bike Alarm; and more. Longer battery life. Smart Bluetooth & ANT+ connectivity to connect to sensorsAround $300, but please click here for current price on Amazon
No. 3: BRYTON RIDER 15 NEO
Best Premium Bike Computer at a Super Budget Price

Wireless. Attractive option if you want to start quantifying & analyzing data, at an amazingly low price
Big screen; battery life up to 16 hours; easy smart Bluetooth connectivity; GPS; Wateproof; 3 satellite systems: GPS, Galileo (Europe) and QZSS (Japan); turn-by-turn navigation (for downloaded courses); smart notifications; uploads to community of choice, such as Strava; compatible with heart rate monitors, speed and cadence sensors; customizable data pages; download training plans; 2 different activity profiles; 2” crystal clear, high contrast display with built-in brightly illuminated backlight; weighs less than an oz (28 g).$69.00
Garmin Edge 130 Plus
Smallest GPS-enabled Bike Computer in the World. Most of the features of premium Garmin Edge bike computers, but much more affordable.

Wireless
Current, average, and maximum speed, trip distance, total distance, elapsed time, time of day, calories burned, GPS tracking of routes, elevation changes, ANT+ and Bluetooth connectivity so you can connect it to other devices, such as a cadence and speed sensor or a heart rate monitor$199.99
No. 5: GARMIN EDGE 830
Best Premium Bike Computer with Full Navigation

Wireless
Current, average, & maximum speed; trip distance; total distance; elapsed time; time of day; calories burned; GPS tracking; elevation changes; live tracking; smart alerts; new advanced performance & power analysis. Advanced training features. Premium navigation with ability to chart courses on the bike, and give you turn-by-turn directions. Preloaded with Garmin Cycle Maps. Twice as fast as previous Edge computers. New features: ClimbPro; Mountain Biking Metrics, and fully integrated Trailforks app; new Performance Metrics; Water & calorie requirements; Better Structured Workouts; Bike Alarm; and more. Longer battery life. Smart Bluetooth & ANT+ connectivity to connect to sensorsAround $400, but please click here for current price on Amazon
CatEye Strada Wireless
No. 6: CATEYE STRADA WIRELESS
Best Cheap WIRELESS Bike Computer

Wireless
Current, average, and maximum speed; trip distance; second-trip distance; total distance; elapsed time; and time of day. Very durable. Lightweight. Easy to use with buttons at base$64.95
CatEye Padrone Cycle Computer
No. 7: CATEYE PADRON
Best Budget Bike Computer with a Large Screen

Wireless
Current, average, and maximum speed; trip distance; total distance; programmable odometer; new stopwatch feature; super large display$54.95
7 of the best bike computers, 2021
These 7 bike computers made the list for one of two reasons: either they are really cheap yet can perform all of the essential functions; or because they offer an impressive range of features

Once you make your choice, please consider clicking through to one of our reputable and trusted affiliates to buy it. It is the only way we make a little money for the many hours of research we put into these reviews … and it costs you nothing at all – a real win/win situation!

No. 1: The CatEye Velo 9 Wired Bike Computer – Best Budget Bike Computer Option

7 of the Best Bike Computers - includes Wireless, Navigation, GPS, and Budget. Cateye Velo 9: an old favorite, and excellent value for money
CatEye Velo 9: an old favorite, and excellent value for money


CatEye has been making quality products for cyclists since 1064. The CatEye Velo bike computer is a long-time favorite with cyclists who simply want to know how far and fast they cycled. And who don’t want to spend a lot of money for this information! The CatEye Velo 9 is an upgrade to an old favorite, and is even better – for less than $35! This upgrade includes a larger screen.

Also, the setup has been simplified with pre-programmed tire sizes. Plus, CatEye has added calorie consumption and a carbon offset measurement – two great motivational features. The calorie consumption lets you see how much of a difference you are making to your body. And the carbon offset lets you see how much of a difference you are making to your planet!

For around thirty dollars you get all of the upgrades above, plus the old standards. These include current, average, and maximum speed, trip distance, elapsed time, and odometer. Add in simple one-button operation and a universal bracket that you can easily install on your stem or your handlebar – and you have the hands-down best bang for your buck bike computer on the market! CatEye has been around since 1964, and is the global leader in bike computers. They know what they’re doing.

The CatEye Velo 9 is wired, but a lot of users find this to be more straight-forward than wireless bike computers. If you prefer wireless, you are going to have to spend a bit more money on one of the other bike computers in our top 7 best bike computers. You could consider the wired version on the CatEye Velo 9, shown below:


Video Review of the CatEye Velo 9

This short video shows you what the CatEye Velo 9 is like:


7 of the Best Bike Computers, 2021 - from Budget to Premium. This graphic shows what ships with the CatEye Velo 9, and what it can do
This graphic shows what ships with the CatEye Velo 9, and what it can do
New Garmin Edge Content!
ALL Garmin Edge Bike Computers Compared in Depth: 130 Plus vs. Explore 2 vs. 530 vs. 830 vs. 1030 Plus vs. 1040
Garmin Edge 1040 vs 1030 Plus vs 830 vs 530
Garmin Edge 530 vs Wahoo ELEMNT Bolt

Related Post: Which Garmin Edge Bike Computer has the Longest Battery Life?

No. 2: The Garmin Edge 530 – Best Premium Bike Computer at a Bargain Price

7 of the Best Bike Computers - Premium and Budget.
The new Garmin Edge 530 has a beefed up processor that is twice as fast! Plus, many new features and extended battery life


Value for Money

In our opinion, the best value in bike computers for most people right now is definitely the Garmin Edge 530. With impressive upgrades at an attractive price point, it seems to be unbeatable, really. In fact, respected cycling authority DC Rainmaker has said that it “looks like the best bike computer ever.”

Also, if you are looking to buy something that will last long enough to get your money’s worth, the Garmin Edge 530 is a rugged bike computer that will stand up to bad weather, and even survive falling into water.

GPS Speed

This bike computer is GPS and Glonass-enabled for extremely fast satellite acquisition. It offers wireless transfers of your data to Garmin Connect (or Strava, which you can read about here).

Training Excellence

The Garmin Edge 530 also offers advanced performance and power analysis. These include Time in Zone, FTP (Functional Threshold Power) tracking, cycling-specific VO2 and recovery, as well as advanced cycling dynamics.

It goes way beyond just recording your rides. It also offers live tracking – which basically means your spouse can check where you are at any time. You don’t have to enable this feature if you don’t want to, of course! It also offers ANT+ connectivity so that you can connect it to other devices, such as a cadence and speed sensor or a heart rate monitor.

Upgraded Navigation on  the Garmin Edge 530 – But Still Not Perfect

Also, the Garmin Edge 530 can actually give you turn-by-turn directions – although not in all circumstances. With the Edge 10340, 1030 Plus, and 830 you can input addresses while on the bike. They will calculate the new route for you, and give you turn-by-turn directions.

By contrast, the Edge 530 can only give you turn-by-turn directions for certain destinations. These include Saved Places, and places found on the included app, Yelp. It can also give you directions for routes that you download beforehand. However, the 530 does have a full set of Cycling Maps onboard. So, it can help you out if you go off course, and get you back to Start.

You can connect this Garmin via a Shimano wireless transmitter to Garmin Vector 2S Power Meter Pedals, Di2 Dura-Ace 9070, Ultegra 6870 Di2, or Ultegra 6770 electronic gears.

Upgrades to the Garmin Edge 530 (and to the Garmin Edge 830)

There are a huge number of important upgrades to the Edge 530. These upgrades are also found on the Edge 830. And of course, they ship standard with the Garmin Edge 1040. Below is a list of the most important upgrades:

  • Upgrade no. 1: Speed: The processor is twice as fast.
  • Upgrade no. 2: Full Navigation Maps (Garmin Cycling Maps): Re-route on the fly while cycling if you go off course! Use back-to-start routing.
  • Upgrade no. 3: ClimbPro: Tells you on the fly about the grades ahead on downloaded routes. Great for serious climbers.
  • Upgrade no. 4: Mountain Biking Metrics: Including Grit rating, Flow rating, Hang time, and fully integrated Trailforks app.
  • Upgrade no. 5: Brand New Performance Metrics: Including Performance power curve; Heat acclimation; Altitude acclimation; Water and calorie requirements.
  • Upgrade no. 6: Better Structured Workouts
  • Upgrade no. 7: Bluetooth Smart connectivity, which means you can connect to more things, while using less battery power
  • Upgrade no. 8: Longer Battery Life: Plus you can use an added battery charge pack, so you can have more than 40 hours of battery life
  • Upgrade no. 9: Bike Alarm
  • Upgrade no. 10: Find my Bike Computer

If you are a cyclist who plans ahead, the Edge 530 offers all you could want in premium cycle training metrics and navigation, at a great price.

But if you are more spontaneous, its inability to figure out on the fly how to get to new addresses might be a deal breaker for you. If that is you, see our no. 5 pick, the Garmin Edge 830, which is more expensive – but more advanced when it comes to navigation.

Button Control on the Garmin Edge 530

Note that the Garmin Edge 530 has button control, not touch screen control. Personally, I prefer button control. Sometimes I find screen swiping doesn’t work perfectly, especially in the rain. Button control gives you complete control, all the time, even with gloves on. The Garmin Edge 530 also has a beautiful color screen, and a great hand-feel – it feels very smooth, light, and high quality.


For more about the Garmin Edge 530, see our comparison of the Garmin Edge 1040 vs 1030 Plus vs 830 vs 530.

Related Post: 7 of the Best Budget Bike Computers

No. 3 on our List of the Best Bike Computers: Bryton Rider 15 Neo

Bryton has been around for more than ten years now. They make absolutely nothing but cycling computers, so they are definitely laser focused! The Bryton Rider 15 Neo has a big, clear screen, making it easy to see while cycling fast and hard. The crisp black and white screen is easy to see even at night, when a competent backlight kicks in. Even more important for most users is the fact that the Bryton bike computer boasts an impressive battery life, up to 16 hours.

The Bryton Rider 15 Neo can do an incredible amount of things, especially given its price point.
The Bryton Rider 15 Neo can do an incredible amount of things, especially given its price point


The Bryton Ryder 15 Neo is a bike computer that will do everything you would expect from a typical budget-priced cycling computer. BUT it adds in smart Bluetooth connectivity and GPS. Plus, you can save your rides to apps such as Strava. The Bryton Rider 15 Neo is a serious option for those wanting to start quantifying and analyzing data, and even compete in the real or virtual world – but at a bargain-basement price.

Related Post: Garmin Edge 130 Plus vs Bryton Rider 15 Neo – Battle of the Entry-Level Giants

This bike computer is also waterproof, and works with 3 different satellite systems: GPS, Galileo (Europe) and QZSS (Japan).

Key features of the Bryton Ryder 15 Neo include:

  • a barometric altimeter (to record your climbs);
  • an accelerometer (to detect sudden changes in speed, and thus detect crashes);
  • storage for up to 120 hours of history;
  • turn-by-turn navigation (but only for downloaded courses created on the Bryton app);
  • communication via Bluetooth;
  • receives smart notifications (calls, texts, and emails);
  • uploads to community of your choice, such as Strava;
  • compatibility with heart rate monitors, speed and cadence sensors; and
  • customizable data pages.

Plus you can download training plans, and have up to two different activity profiles.

Related Post: Garmin Edge 1040 vs 1030 Plus vs 830 vs 530 GPS Bike Computers: Full Review and Detailed Comparison of the Top Premium GPS Bike Computers

Garmin Edge 1040 vs 1030 Plus vs 830 vs 530 Bike Computers: In-Depth Comparison, Reviews and Videos

No. 4 on our List of Best Bike Computers: The Garmin Edge 130 Plus – the Smallest GPS-enabled Bike Computer in the World

This is a premium bike computer with awesome training features, at a very reasonable price relative to other premium bike computers. It is small, compact, and intuitively easy-to-use. The range of training options and available data on this bike computer is pretty much unbeatable at this price.

The Edge 130 Plus includes the very cool ClimbPro feature
The Edge 130 Plus includes the very cool ClimbPro feature


It’s also great if mountain biking is your first love, because it comes with Garmin’s cool new mountain bike metrics pre-loaded. It is also a good buy if you have tons of useful sensor information, user profiles, etc., on an older Garmin unit. If you are anything like me, the auto syncing will put a big smile on your face!

Also amazing at this price, it comes with the very cool ClimbPro feature pre-loaded. Many cyclists find this a must for planning hilly bike rides.

It is kind of amazing what this budget-priced Garmin Edge bike computer can do
It is kind of amazing what this budget-priced Garmin Edge bike computer can do

Is the Garmin Edge 130 Plus for You?

Yes, if you are looking for premium training and data features in a budget priced bike computer. And you don’t mind black and white; you like button control; you like low-profile gadgets; and you don’t need much help finding your way around.

Related Post: Garmin Edge 130 Plus vs Wahoo ELEMNT Bolt: Which is Better?

Related Post: Garmin Edge 1030 Plus vs. 130 Plus: Premium vs. Budget Bike Computers

No. 5: The Garmin Edge 830 – Best Premium Bike Computer with Full Navigation

7 of the Best Bike Computers - includes Wireless, Navigation, GPS, and Budget.
The Garmin Edge 830 is packed with new features, and its processor is twice as fast as that of the Garmin Edge 820


The Garmin Edge 830 received a massive upgrade last year, and now boasts the same twice-as-fast processor as the Garmin Edge 530. It also shares all the same great features. The main differences between the 830 and the 530 are that the Edge 830 has full navigation features, and it costs more (usually about $100 more). It offers true turn-by-turn navigation for any address you input.

This bike computer gives you an awesome range of data. This includes current, average, and maximum speed, trip distance, total distance, elapsed time, time of day, calories burned, GPS tracking of routes, elevation changes, route mapping, live tracking, smart alerts, new advanced performance and power analysis, including Time in Zone, FTP (Functional Threshold Power) tracking, cycling-specific VO2 and recovery and cycling dynamics.

It also has features never before seen in Garmin Edge bike computers, including Group Track, Incident Alert, Battery Save Mode and Stress Score.

Related Post: Garmin Edge 1030 Plus vs. Garmin Edge 1030. What’s New about the Garmin Edge 1030 Plus?

Related Post: Garmin Edge 1040 vs. 1030 Plus: What’s the Difference?

New Features on the Garmin Edge 830

Also, it’s twice as fast as previous Edge computers, and has the following features:

  • ClimbPro;
  • Mountain Biking Metrics including Grit rating, Flow rating, Hang time, and fully integrated Trailforks app.

It also offers Performance Metrics including:

  • Performance power curve;
  • Heat acclimation; and
  • Altitude acclimation.

Plus, you can improve your performance with the following:

  • Water and calorie requirements;
  • Better structured workouts.

Finally, it offers features that include a Bike Alarm and Find my Bike Computer.

Battery Life

Also it has longer battery life than previous Garmin Edge bike computers. Plus, you can use an added battery charge pack, so you can have more than 40 hours of battery life. It has ANT+ and Smart Bluetooth connectivity so you can connect it to other devices, such as a cadence and speed sensor or a heart rate monitor.

Connectivity

You can connect this Garmin via a Shimano wireless transmitter to Garmin Vector 2S Power Meter Pedals, Di2 Dura-Ace 9070, Ultegra 6870 Di2, or Ultegra 6770 electronic gears.

Excellent for Navigation and Training

The Garmin Edge 830 is excellent for both training and navigation. Really, the only way in which it is inferior to the more expensive Edge 1030 and 1040, is that it has a substantially smaller screen. This could be a problem if you are over 40, or have eyesight that is less than stellar for any reason, and you plan to use it for navigation.

Like the Edge 1030, the 830 can calculate a route and then give you turn-by-turn directions. However, the maps are smaller on the 830, as the unit is smaller.

You can read an in-depth comparison of the top Garmin bike computers here: Garmin Edge 1040 vs. 1030 vs. 830 vs. 530.

No. 6 on our List of the 7 Best Bike Computers: The CatEye Strada Wireless Bike Computer – Best Cheap WIRELESS Bike Computer

7 of the Best Bike Computers, 2020 - includes Wireless, Navigation, GPS, and Budget. CatEye Strada Wireless Bike Computer: small, light and very affordable
CatEye Strada Wireless Bike Computer: small, light and very affordable


The CatEye Strada Wireless Bike Computer is small, light and very affordable, and will do all you want as long as you don’t want to track your rides geographically (it does not have a GPS) or upload your data to analyze. Basically it has a wireless sensor that you put on your fork, and it then calculates your speed, time and distance.

While you are cycling, the CatEye Strada will show a whole lot of data, including current, average, and maximum speed, trip distance, second-trip distance, total distance, elapsed time, and the time of day. In testing I found it easy to use, thanks to the handy buttons at the base of the unit. The CatEye Strada bike computer comes with batteries and a universal tool-free FlexTight bracket, and is easy to mount.

I agree with other reviewers that this bike computer is amazingly durable. One reviewer accidentally ran it through a washing cycle, and it is still going strong!

7 of the Best Bike Computers, Budget to Premium. CatEye has been around since 1946, and is the global leader in bike computers. They know what they’re doing. The CatEye Strada touchscreen is easy to use
CatEye has been around since 1954, and is the global leader in bike computers. They know what they’re doing. The CatEye Strada touchscreen is easy to use

No. 7: CatEye Padrone Cycle Computer – Best Budget Bike Computer with a Large Screen

7 of the Best Bike Computers, budget and premium - includes Wireless, Navigation, GPS, and Budget. CatEye Padrone Cycle Computer: reliable, wireless - with a huge display
CatEye Padrone Cycle Computer: reliable, wireless – with a huge display


The CatEye Padrone Cycle Computer is a long-time favorite with many cyclists. It is a reliable, straightforward wireless bike computer with a huge display. CatEye claims it is the largest display on the market. Add in super lightweight and a battery that will last for a year, and you have a very attractive bike computer at a very affordable price.

Also, in response to customer requests, the Padrone has been updated with a stopwatch feature. The CatEye Padrone gets rave reviews from users.

Check Out Our Most Popular Posts!

  • 7 of the Best Health and Fitness Trackers
  • Best Budget gifts for cyclists
    Best Budget Gifts for Cyclists - Under $15 and Under $30
  • Our Ultimate Gift Guide for Cyclists - 90 Top Picks from Budget to Luxury
  • They look the same - but there are quite a lot of differences!. Garmin edge 1030 plus vs 1040 bike computers
    What's NEW about the Garmin Edge 1040? Garmin Edge 1040 vs 1030 Plus: What’s the Difference?
  • All Garmin Edge Bike Computers Compared
    ALL GARMIN EDGE BIKE COMPUTERS COMPARED! 130 Plus vs Explore 2 vs 530 vs 830 vs 1030 Plus vs 1040
  • 7 of the Best Budget Bike Computers
  • 7 best dog bike baskets
    7 of the Best Carriers to Take Your Dog on Bike Rides
  • This graphic shows you the relative sizes of the 530 (left), 1030 Plus (center), and 830 (right)
    Garmin Edge 530 vs 830 vs 1030 Plus vs 1040 Bike Computers: In-Depth Comparison with Reviews and Videos
  • Garmin Edge 530 vs. Wahoo ELEMNT Bolt
  • 7 of the best indoor bike trainers
    7 of the Best Budget Indoor Bike Trainers
  • Garmin Edge 130 Plus vs. 1030 Plus. Would a much CHEAPER bike computer work for you?
  • 7 of the Best Cheap Bike Computers under $65 – Includes Budget Wireless Computers
  • 7 of the Best Fitness Trackers for Cyclists to Track Bike Rides
  • Best road bike saddles
    9 of the Best Road Bike Saddles for Men and Women - Video-Packed Post
  • 7 of the Best Bike Computers
  • 5 of the Best Smart Indoor Trainers for Effective Indoor Training
  • 9 of the best waterproof cycling jackets for men and women. A great waterproof cycling jacket will keep you dry, and at the same time be breathable, so that you don't overheat your core
    7 of the Best Waterproof Cycling Jackets for Men and Women
  • 7 of the best waterproof cycling pants for men and women
    7 of the Best Waterproof Cycling Pants for Men and Women
  • The Garmin Edge 830 on Maggie's bike
    Garmin Edge 530 vs 830 vs 1030 vs 1040
  • Get a new bike, and then get outside and have fun!
    7 Great Budget Bikes You Can Buy on Amazon - Cruiser, Mountain, Road and Hybrid
  • Our Most Popular Cycling Fitness Plans
    Our Most Popular Cycling Fitness Plans
  • Waterproof cycling jackets - group of cyclists
    Best Waterproof Cycling Gear - Includes Jackets, Pants, Gloves, and Balaclavas
  • Great bike lights will light up the night for you! Just be sure to get the ones that are right for you
    7 of the Best Bike Lights
  • 7 of the Best Women's Cycling Jackets
  • 7 of the Best Windproof Cycling Jackets - Find a Great Cycling Jacket Now!
  • How to Choose the Safest Headphones for Cycling
  • 7 of the Best Waterproof Bike Panniers Compared
  • 7 of the Best Child Bike Seats Compared
  • How to Buy the Best Electric Bike
  • 7 best bike locks
    7 of the Best Bike locks Compared. Find the Best Bike Lock For You!
  • How to Train Your Dog to Safely Run Next to You When You Are Cycling
    How to Train Your Dog to Safely Run Next to You When You Are Cycling

Did you enjoy this post or find it helpful? If so, please support our blog!


average-joe-cyclist-mug-shot copyWe write this blog because we love cycling. But we also need to earn a living, so we REALLY would appreciate if you click through to one of our reputable affiliates for your online shopping. We are proudly affiliated with Amazon, which sells pretty much everything, and has outstanding shipping and return policies. When you buy from our affiliates we make a small commission, and this is the only way we earn any income. Plus, it costs you nothing at all - a real win/win situation!
Shop at Amazon in the USA:
Shop at Amazon in Canada:
Shop at Amazon in the UK:

Related

Pin
Share
Tweet

Filed Under: Bike Computer Reviews Tagged With: Bryton Rider, CatEye Strada Wireless, CatEye Velo 9, Garmin Edge 25, Garmin Edge 530, Garmin Edge 830

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Copyright © 2023 · Average Joe Cyclist, please contact us for syndication rights.

 

Loading Comments...