• 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 / Garmin Edge Bike Computers / Garmin Edge Bike Computers Compared / Garmin Edge 1030 Plus vs. 130 Plus – Premium vs. Budget Bike Computers

Garmin Edge 1030 Plus vs. 130 Plus – Premium vs. Budget Bike Computers

March 2, 2022 by Average Joe Cyclist Leave a Comment

Pin
Share
Tweet

Avatarwp-user-avatar wp-user-avatar-96 photoThis in-depth post with videos aims to give you all the information you need to choose between the Garmin Edge 1030 Plus vs 130 Plus. The Edge 1030 Plus is an upgrade of the flagship of the series. The Edge 130 Plus is an upgrade to the 130. The Edge 130 Plus costs one-third of what the 1030 Plus costs. And yet, Cycling News has this to say about this budget choice: “The feature-packed Garmin Edge 130 Plus contains everything you would ever want from a cycling computer.” This makes it very fair for you to ask the question: “Will the Edge 130 Plus  be enough to meet my bike computing needs, so that I don’t have to spend nearly as much money?” We hope this post will make it easy for you to answer this question for yourself.

Please note that as an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases. This costs you nothing at all.

First I have compiled a chart that compares the key features offered by these two bike computers, including training metrics and navigation. Then I discuss the differences between the two bike computers. Then, I offer some advice on which Garmin Edge to buy, based on your needs. If you don’t have enough time to read all of this, you can jump to the Bottom Line on which Garmin Edge bike computer is right for you. Otherwise, please read on for more details!

First off, here is a chart that highlights the differences between these two bike computers.

Chart Comparing the Features of the Garmin Edge 1030 Plus vs 130 Plus

Garmin Edge 1030 Plus
Garmin Edge 1030 Plus
Garmin Edge 130 Plus
Prices:Best Price on Amazon Right Now: $424.00Best Price on Amazon Right Now: $199.99
Size of screen2.3" x 4.5" x 0.8" (58 x 114 x 19 mm)1.1" x 1.4" (27.0 x 36.0 mm); 1.8" diag (45.0 mm)
Color or black and white screen?Beautiful color screenBlack and white, but sharp and crystal clear
Weight4.4 oz (124 g)1.2 oz (33 g)
Waterproof ratingIPX 7IPX 7
Screen size3.5" (88.9 mm)1.8″ (45.0 mm)
Display resolution282 x 470 pixels, color303 x 230 pixels
Touchscreen or button control?Touchscreen, much improved over the 1030 (basically the 830 screen, but bigger)Button
Battery LifeUp to 36 hours in GPS training mode, up to 48 hours with minimal sensors and backlightingUp to 12 hours
Battery Save Mode (extends battery life by up to 50% while still tracking all ride data)YesNo
Option to add Garmin Charge Power Pack (to double battery life)?YesNo
Bike alarm that connects with your phone?YesNo
Find my bike computer?YesNo
Maps & Navigation
Satellite Systems:GPS/GLONASS/GalileoGPS/GLONASS/Galileo
BasemapPre-loaded Garmin Cycle Maps with Integrated TrailForks contentNo, so you are limited to courses that you download
Ships pre-loaded with high-quality maps for two countries, plus can download any other countries for free?YesNo
Can you add maps?YesNo
Address search (input address and it will plot a route)? AKA On-Device Course CreatorYesNo
RoutesUnlimited15
WaypointsUnlimited100
Popularity routing (Trendline) - shows routes used most by cyclists?YesNo
Turn-by-turn navigation?YesYes, but very basic, breadcrumb-style navigation only. And only for downloaded courses, e.g. from Garmin Route Creator or Komoot
Recalculate route on the device?YesNo
New re-routing options?Yes. Choose from Rejoin where you left course; Skip ahead to course; or Cut acrossNo
Calculate route back to start?YesYes
Create a route on the unit?YesNo
Create a round-trip route on the device?YesNo
Find nearby POI (points of interest)?YesNo
Connected Features
Smart notifications?YesYes
Weather on the unitYesYes
Rider to Rider messaging?YesNo
Garmin Connect compatible?YesYes
Connect IQ™ compatible?YesYes
Automatically syncs your rides?YesYes
ANT+ and Bluetooth (to connect your devices?Yes; also WiFiYes; but no WiFi
Compatible with Vector™ (power meter)YesYes
Power meter compatible (displays power data from compatible 3rd party ANT+™-enabled power meters)?YesYes
Bluetooth Smart (aka BLE or Bluetooth Low Energy)?YesYes
Unit to unit transfer (share your data with friends with similar units)?YesNo
Live Track Incident detection (so someone is automatically notified if you have an accident)?Yes (new enhanced version)Yes (new enhanced version). BUT it will only work if you have your Smart phone with you, as this unit does not have WiFi, only Bluetooth & ANT+
LiveTrackYes, new enhanced version that shows both your planned route and where you areYes, new enhanced version that shows both your planned route and where you are
LEV/ebike compatibility via ANT+?YesNo, but coming very soon
Compatible with heart rate monitors, plus speed and cadence sensors?YesYes
ANT+ shifting?YesNo
Shimano Di2 electronic shifting integration?YesNo
Can it download free apps and widgets from the Connect IQ™ store?YesYes
Barometric altimeter (to detect altitude)?YesYes
Accelerometer (to detect incidents)?YesYes
Compatible with Garmin Varia?YesYes
Extended display to Garmin Varia devices and Garmin smart watches?YesYes
Training Features
Customizable data pages?YesYes
Auto Pause® (pauses and resumes timer based on speed):YesYes
Auto Scroll (cycles through data pages during a ride)?YesYes
Calories burned based on heart rate?YesYes
Interval training?YesYes, if you download an interval training workout to it
Download structured workouts to the unit, so you can follow them on your bike?YesYes
Courses (compete against previous activities)?YesYes
Virtual Partner (so you can compete against a digital cyclist)?YesYes, but only within a course
VO2 Max estimate? (the maximum amount of oxygen a person can utilize during intense exercise)YesYes
FTP tracking? (Functional Threshold Power is the average power that a rider can produce over the course of an hour)YesNo
Recovery time?YesYes
Time in heart rate training zone?YesNo
TrainingPeaks iLevels (WKO4)YesNo
ClimpPro (new feature that shows you graphically the grades ahead)?YesYes, but only if you have preloaded the route
Performance Power Curve? (tracks your power output over periods of time)YesNo
Strava Live Segments on the unit?YesYes
Aerobic training effect?YesNo
Heat acclimation (how well are you adjusting to heat)?YesNo
Altitude acclimation (how well are you adjusting to changes in altitude)?YesNo
Set up multiple activity profiles (e.g. mountain biking, racing)?YesNo
Water and calorie requirements (reminders based on course)?YesNo
Mountain Bike Metrics
Grit rating (how tough is the route)?YesYes
Flow rating (how well did you ride the route)?YesYes
Hang time (how long were you in the air when jumping, how far did you go)?YesYes
Integrated Trailforks? (130,000 trails preloaded on unit)YesNo



Buying Options

If you find this review useful and decide to buy one of these bike computers, please use one of our affiliate links to buy. It’s the only way I get any income for the many hours of research and writing I do, and of course, it costs you nothing at all – so we both win! When you buy with one of our links, you make it possible for Maggie and I to keep publishing this blog (thank you!). At the end of this post, I offer links to online buying options. Click here for buying options. There are several buying links along the way as well, in case you don’t make it to the end (which is a long way ahead!)

Videos of the Garmin Edge 130 Plus and the Garmin Edge 1030 Plus

These videos will give you a great overall picture of the two bike computers.



Both of the above videos are from the YouTube channel DesFit, which I think is the best bike computer video channel of them all. He also reviews other devices, such as fitness trackers. Check it out!

So, How to Decide between the Garmin Edge 130 Plus and the Garmin Edge 1030 Plus?

Garmin Edge 1030 Plus (left) vs Garmin Edge 130 Plus (on the right)
Garmin Edge 1030 Plus (left) vs Garmin Edge 130 Plus (on the right)

Next in this post, we will review what these two units have in common, and what their differences are. In a nutshell, they have major physical differences. However, when it comes to your training needs, they are not that far apart. The Garmin Edge 130 Plus has a surprisingly impressive range of features. However, the Edge 1030 Plus does have a lot more features.

Related Post: 9 Great Upgrades to the Garmin Edge 530 – Garmin’s Game-Changing GPS Bike Computer

Price Comparison between the Garmin Edge 130 Plus vs 1030 Plus

In terms of price, the comparison is usually as follows:

  • Garmin Edge 1030 Plus: $599
  • Garmin Edge 130 Plus: $199

Both have the sleek good looks and quality feel that comes with all Garmin Edge bike computers these days.

The Garmin Edge 130 Plus is a premium bike computer with awesome training features, at a very reasonable price relative to other premium bike computers
The Garmin Edge 130 Plus is a premium bike computer with awesome training features, at a very reasonable price relative to other premium bike computers

What the Garmin Edge 1030 Plus and the Edge 130 Plus Have in Common

Advanced Bike Training Features

Both are top-quality bike computers that offer a dazzling number of advanced bike training features.

Sensors: You can connect both bike computers to a range of training devices and sensors, such as heart rate monitors, and speed, power, and cadence meters. You can connect both of them to these monitors using both ANT+ and Bluetooth Smart. At the pricepoint of the Edge 130 Plus, this is pretty amazing.

Structured Workouts: With both of them, you can download training workouts from Garmin Connect or another app to the unit. Then, you can do the workout on your bike, following the workout instructions on the unit.

GPS: They both have access to GPS, GPS+GLONASS, and GPS+GALILEO satellite systems, so they should be able to acquire a GPS signal fast, wherever you are. The Edge 1030 Plus will record your bike rides and will wirelessly transfer your data to Garmin Connect (or Strava, or several other apps). The Edge 130 Plus does the same thing via Bluetooth Smart. You can also plug both units into your computer using the provided micro USB cable to upload your bike rides.

Sync to App of Your Choice: Both of these will wirelessly send your rides to Garmin Connect. They will also sync them to any other app that you have linked up, such as Strava or Training Peaks.

Advanced Analysis of Your Cycling Performance and Power Output

Both of these bike computers offer advanced analysis of your performance and power. These include Time in Zone, FTP (Functional Threshold Power) tracking, cycling-specific VO2 and recovery, and cycling dynamics.

Strava Live Segments for Motivation

You can download Strava Live segments to both of these bike computers. You can star Strava segments ahead of your bike ride on the Strava app or web site. They will then automatically sync to your Edge 130 Plus or 1030 Plus. If you get a course from Strava, it will automatically transfer any Strava segments on that course.

You can view the segments on either of these bike computers before you ride. And you can set up which effort you plan to pursue: KOM/QOM or PR. These stand for King of the Mountain/Queen of the Mountain or Personal Record. In my experience, this can really help you to motivate yourself to cycle faster. I always go for Personal Record

Mountain Bike Metrics

Quite surprisingly, the 130 Plus comes equipped with Garmin’s mountain bike metrics. These offer cool ways to motivate you on your mountain bike – such as how long you were in the air, and how hard your ride was (Grit rating).

Garmin was able to include the jumping metrics because the Edge 130 Plus has an Accelerometer that can measure them. (The Edge 130 did not have this.) It is this device that also makes it possible for this relatively cheap bike computer to have an incident alert feature. That is, if you suddenly fall over, your  significant other can be alerted. Of course, you have the option to disable in case of false alerts.

Details about the Mountain Bike Metrics (included on both the 130 Plus and the 1030 Plus)
  • Grit rating – this shows you how difficult a route is.
  • Flow rating – this shows you how well you descended a tough route. This gives you a metric to try and beat the next time!
  • Hang time – this shows you on the fly how long you were in the air after a jump. Later, you can analyze every single jump in great detail on Garmin Connect. How far did you jump, how long were you in the air, and how fast were you going?

The Flow and Grit metrics will be useful for XC and CX racers. The Grit metric will render a difficulty score for particular routes. This can help you to compare one course to another.

The Flow metric can also be very useful, as it uses speed and accelerometer information to score how well you flow through a course. If your goal is to improve lap times, this will help. It will show you exactly where you’re losing seconds, or braking a bit too much.

Why Aren’t I Seeing the Mountain Bike Metrics?

If you are not seeing the mountain bike metrics, this would mean that you did not choose the mountain biking profile for your ride. Update this, and voila! They will appear!

ClimbPro

Both of these bike computers have ClimbPro, which is a neat Garmin feature. This upgrade is extremely useful for those who like to cycle up hills. On the 130 Plus, it only works on downloaded routes. But it’s really quite awesome – it basically shows you graphically the grades that lie ahead, as well as the grade you are currently climbing. This could be immensely useful on long-distance, hilly rides. For me, it would tell me when it is time to do a U-turn!

On the Edge 130 Plus you get a little less information than on the Edge 1030 Plus, because you do not view your gradient in a color-coded format. However, you still get plenty of gradient information.

Connectivity

Both are very connected, with phone call and text message alerts, and a ton of other connected features.  Connected features that both bike computers share include Smart notifications, being Garmin Connect compatible, being Connect IQ™ compatible, automatically synching your rides, ANT+ and Bluetooth Smart to connect your devices (such as heart rate monitors, speed and cadence sensors), being compatible with Vector™ power meters (and other power meters), Incident Detection (to alert someone if you have an accident), Live Track, Weather, and compatibility with Garmin Varia.

LiveTrack

In terms of connectivity, both of these bike computers offer LiveTracking. This means that designated people can track where you are. Both come pre-equipped with Garmin’s latest, updated live tracking. The LiveTrack feature has been improved. Now it shows three sets of data. It shows a purple line for your planned route. It also shows a blue line for your actual route. Finally, a blue dot showing your location updates every 30 seconds.

More details on this in my post comparing the Garmin Edge 1030 vs. Edge 1030 Plus.

Garmin Edge 1030 Plus vs Garmin Edge 1030. What’s New About the Garmin Edge 1030 Plus?

Auto Syncing during Bike Computer Setup of the Edge 1030 Plus and 130 Plus

As you set up your Garmin Edge 1030 Plus or your 130 Plus, it will automatically import all your activity records, user and activity profiles, and all of your sensors (up to 30). This makes for a really fast and stress-free setup process. This is a Garmin innovation (as of mid 2020). If you have named your devices, the names will be imported too.

Waterproof

Both are waterproof – IPX 7, which means they can most likely survive 20 minutes submerged in a puddle (but don’t test it!)

The Major Differences Between the Edge 1030 Plus and 130 Plus

The Garmin Edge 1030 Plus is just loaded with features
The Garmin Edge 1030 Plus is just loaded with features, and sports an impressive color screen

Color vs Black and White

The cheaper bike computer is black and white, while the more expensive one is color. However, the Edge 130 Plus has a very high quality black and white screen, so that is easy to see under pretty much all conditions.

Even though it is black and white, the screen on the Edge 130 Plus is crisp and easy to read
Even though it is black and white, the screen on the Edge 130 Plus is crisp and easy to read

Does Size Matter to You?

These two bike computers have significant differences in size and weight. The 1030 Plus is very noticeably bigger, with a 3.5″ screen and a screen resolution of 282 x 470 pixels. It looks more like a smart phone than a bike computer. There are many cyclists who insist on the Edge 1030 Plus purely because of the screen size, as it is easier to see the maps. This is more likely with older cyclists, like me.

These two bike computers have significant differences in size and weight. That's the 1030 Plus on the left and the 130 on the right
These two bike computers have significant differences in size and weight. That’s the 1030 Plus on the left and the 130 on the right

Battery Life on the Edge 1030 Plus vs 130 Plus

Depending on how many features and sensors you use, the battery on the Edge 1030 Plus can run for up to 48 hours. For most users, it would be reasonable to expect 36 hours. On the Edge 130 Plus, the claimed battery lifetime is 12 hours.

There is an option to extend battery life on the Edge 1030 Plus, as this unit has a connection port to attach an external Garmin Battery, adding on another 24 hours.

The video below highlights all the upgrades that the Garmin Edge 1030 got when it was upgraded to the 1030 Plus.

Power Measurements and Metrics on the Garmin Edge 130 Plus vs. Garmin Edge 1030 Plus

The Edge 130 Plus offers many basic training metrics, including support for power meters. However, compared to the 1030 Plus, it will not offer you the same advanced metrics, such as Normalized Power® (NP) or TSS (Training Stress Score®). TSS measures how much stress you put on your body as you ride. It is calculated using NP, Intensity Factor® (IF) and ride duration. The point of TSS is to help you figure out the best best way to plan your workouts and rest periods.

However, even though you will not be able to check on these advanced training metrics as you ride with your Garmin Edge 130, you will be able to assess them later. Apps such as Garmin Connect or Strava will analyze your ride records and calculate these metrics for you after you ride. So, you can still calculate your training program with the precision of the pros!

Connected Features that Only the Edge 1030 Plus has, not the 130 Plus

Of course, the 1030 Plus has many connected features that the much cheaper 130 Plus does not have. Notably, the 1030 Plus has Rider to Rider Messaging, Unit to Unit Transfer, ANT+ shifting, and Shimano Di2 electronic shifting integration.

Training Options

These include a Daily Suggestion Workout on the 1030 Plus,  but not on the 130 Plus.

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

Button Control vs. Touch Screen Control

The Edge 1030 Plus has touchscreen control, while the Edge 130 Plus is operated with buttons. So, your preference on this matter is important. It is worth noting that the 1030 Plus touch screen is much improved, and now works well in the rain.

The buttons on the Edge 130 Plus One are as follows:  two on the side for up/down; two on the bottom for lap and start/stop/enter; and one the left to turn on the power.

This one comes down to personal preference. Some people prefer the more precise control offered by buttons, while others are so used to touch screens that nothing else will do.

Navigation on the Edge 1030 Plus vs 130 Plus

Naturally, the Gamin Edge 1030 Plus has true turn-by-turn navigation built into it, right out of the box. This means you can plug in an address while you are out on a bike ride, and the Garmin Edge 1030 Plus will guide you there. It will give you turn-by-turn visual directions, as well as audible beeps if you go off course. And it will give you directions to get back on course. These will include rerouting options (see below).

Of course, the Edge 130 Plus does not have these advanced navigation features.  You can download a course to it from Garmin Course Creator, or a third party app such as Komoot. With these courses, it will give you basic, breadcrumb-type directions including turn-by-turn directions.

When following your breadcrumb trail you can zoom in and out, and pan. The Edge 130 Plus will let you know if you have gone off your course. However, do not expect to see street names, or to get help with rerouting.

Also, the Edge 130 lacks a base map, and you cannot add maps. And it cannot calculate routes for you while you are out on the road.

Of course, none of this matters if you don’t need your bike computer to navigate for you. Usually I have Maggie with me, and she is a better navigator than almost any bike computer!

Free Maps!

The Edge 1030 Plus ships with a bunch of free maps pre-installed. For example, if you buy your Garmin Edge 1030 Plus in North America, you will get a full set of high-quality maps for North America and Europe. And, if you need more, you can just log into Garmin Express and download them for free! For details of exactly which countries you will get, see our post, Garmin Edge 1030 Plus vs 830 vs 530.

Of course, these are not included on the Edge 130 Plus.

Navigation Options on the Garmin Edge 1030 Plus (but not on the Edge 130 Plus)

Re-Routing Options on the Garmin Edge 1030 Plus

In addition to a great navigation system, the Garmin Edge 1030 Plus offers three options if you go off route:

  1. You can choose to rejoin where you left the course.
  2. You can choose to skip ahead to get back on the course up ahead.
  3. Or you can choose to cut across to your planned route.

You get a visual preview of each choice, so you can choose wisely.

Obviously these options do not exist on the Edge 130 Plus.

Pause Routing Option

Say you are on a planned route and you suddenly decide to go off-route for a coffee. Now you can pause the routing, so your Garmin does not beep at you constantly.

Bottom Line on which Bike Computer is Right for You: Garmin Edge 130 Plus vs 1030 Plus

  • Buy the Edge 130 Plus if you want a premium bike computer with awesome training features, at a very reasonable price relative to other premium bike computers. But only if you have almost no need for navigation help on your bike rides. And if you like  a small, compact, and intuitively easy-to-use bike computer. Honestly, the range of training options and available data on this bike computer is pretty much unbeatable at this price.


Only spend three times as much money on the Edge 1030 Plus if one or more of the following applies to you:

  • You absolutely have to have premium navigation help on your bike rides.
  • You have some vision challenges and struggle to see a small bike computer.
  • You absolutely have to have a touch screen.
  • You absolutely have to have the Trailforks app with thousands of off-road trails preloaded.
  • You absolutely have to have a color screen.
  • You really want to get all those free maps up front, on your bike computer.
  • You need very long battery life.


It comes down to what you need and value, and how much you are willing and able to pay for it. It’s a tough choice, but somebody’s got to make it!

Our Affiliate Buying Options – Please support our work by using these links – It won’t cost you anything at all – But it will help us survive 🙂

Buy a Garmin Edge 130 Plus:


Buy a Garmin Edge 1030 Plus:



Still haven’t found the right bike computer? Check out our post comparing the top three Garmin Edge GPS bike computers:

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

Related Posts:

7 of the Best Bike Computers from Budget to Premium

7 of the Best Bike Computers, 2022 – from Budget to Premium

Garmin Edge 1030 vs. 1030 Plus

Garmin Edge 1030 Plus vs Garmin Edge 1030. What’s New About the Garmin Edge 1030 Plus?

Best Budget Bike Computers

Best Cheap Bike Computers Under $65, 2022 – Includes Budget Wireless Computers

How to Use a Garmin Vivoactive to Record a Bike Ride

How to Record a Bike Ride with Your Garmin Vivoactive 3

Our Most Popular Posts about Garmin Edge Bike Computers
ALL Garmin Edge Bike Computers COMPARED: 130 Plus vs. Explore vs. 530 vs. 830 vs. 1030 Plus
Garmin Edge 130 Plus vs. 1030 Plus - Budget vs. Premium
Garmin Edge 530 vs. 830 vs. 1030 Plus
Garmin Edge 530 vs Wahoo ELEMNT Bolt
Garmin Edge 1030 Plus vs Garmin Edge 1030: What's the Difference?
Garmin Edge 530 vs. 830 vs. 1030
9 Great Upgrades to the Garmin Edge 530 – Garmin’s Game-Changing GPS Bike Computer
Garmin Edge 830 vs. 820: What's the Difference?

Garmin Edge 1030 vs 820 vs 520 Plus


Garmin Edge 520 vs 520 Plus GPS Bike Computers


Garmin Edge 1030 vs 1000


Garmin Edge 520 vs. Wahoo ELEMNT

Garmin Edge 1000 vs 820

Garmin Edge 1000 vs 820 vs 520
Garmin-EDGE-1000-vs-820-vs-520-bike-computers-table(1)
7 Differences between Edge 1000 and 820
garmin edge 1000 and 820 table(1)
Garmin Edge 820 vs 520
Garmin Edge 820 Review
9 Differences between Edge 820 and 520
Garmin-edge-820-and-520-table(1)(1)
Garmin Edge 520 Review
Garmin Edge 520 Review
Garmin Edge 1000 Review
Garmin-EDGE-1000 table 2(1)
Garmin Edge 520 vs 25
garmin edge 520 vs 25
Garmin Edge 25
Review
Garmin-Edge-25-table(1)
Garmin Edge Touring Navigator Review
Garmin-Edge-Touring
Garmin Edge 1000 vs 810
Garmin Edge 1000 vs 810
Garmin Varia Vision Review
garmin-varia-vision-on-cycling-glasses-table1(2)
Garmin Edge Touring vs 810
EdgeTouring-vs-810

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: Garmin Edge Bike Computers Compared Tagged With: Garmin Edge

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...