User submitted reviews
Review by TeeSolid little bike computerby TeeCycling EnthusiastSpokane1 of 1 customers found this review helpful.A great feature set for riding. I've been using this on road, gravel and mtb with specific and customizable profiles for each discipline. The maps are great, and I was impressed at how accurate the trail maps have been. This is my first bike computer having relied on my garmin watches in the past. I've since added a cadence sensor and hrm, both of which provide good info when connected to the 530. One feature I thought was goofy, but have had fun with after riding with it for a while, is the 'jump' recording in the MTB profile. Measures distance and hang time, which of course has translated to passing this around to see who can go the biggest. I was skeptical, but jumped during the sale and glad I did.
Reviewed 11/6/2020Was this review useful to you? Yes, review by Tee was helpful/No, review by Tee was not helpfulThank you for your feedback.
A great feature set for riding. I've been using this on road, gravel and mtb with specific and customizable profiles for each discipline. The maps are great, and I was impressed at how accurate the trail maps have been. This is my first bike computer having relied on my garmin watches in the past. I've since added a cadence sensor and hrm, both of which provide good info when connected to the 530. One feature I thought was goofy, but have had fun with after riding with it for a while, is the 'jump' recording in the MTB profile. Measures distance and hang time, which of course has translated to passing this around to see who can go the biggest. I was skeptical, but jumped during the sale and glad I did.
Review by MichaelYGreat features at a great price!by MichaelYCompetitive RacerPortland, ORGreat quality instrument from Garmin. Connects to my devices/sensors very quickly. I love that I can use the speed sensor on the rear wheel of my road bike while it's on my trainer and get speed and distance data for my workouts. You can also run workouts on the 530 itself, while it's tracking your ride. Would def recommend to a friend!
Reviewed 2/12/2021Was this review useful to you? Yes, review by MichaelY was helpful/No, review by MichaelY was not helpfulThank you for your feedback.
Great quality instrument from Garmin. Connects to my devices/sensors very quickly. I love that I can use the speed sensor on the rear wheel of my road bike while it's on my trainer and get speed and distance data for my workouts. You can also run workouts on the 530 itself, while it's tracking your ride. Would def recommend to a friend!
Review by Jes BakersfieldGreat Garmin at incredible price. by Jes BakersfieldCasual CyclistBakersfield, CAUse it to log my bike rides. It help me to keep track of workouts.
Reviewed 11/26/2021Was this review useful to you? Yes, review by Jes Bakersfield was helpful/No, review by Jes Bakersfield was not helpfulThank you for your feedback.
Use it to log my bike rides. It help me to keep track of workouts.
Review by AnonymousAll you need in one compact unit.by AnonymousCycling EnthusiastNE OhioReview for Garmin Edge 530 GPS Computer7 of 7 customers found this review helpful.I upgraded to the 530 because I appreciated it's functionality over my older 520. Lots of training dynamics data, maps galore should you want to consult them, and an easy-to-read screen. I prefer a smaller display than the 1030 range, more compact in cockpit and lighter. Good visual interface with Garmin Varia radar. Only drawback is that the battery may require more frequent recharging, depending how many features you activate.
Reviewed 6/5/2020Was this review useful to you? Yes, review by Anonymous was helpful/No, review by Anonymous was not helpfulThank you for your feedback.
I upgraded to the 530 because I appreciated it's functionality over my older 520. Lots of training dynamics data, maps galore should you want to consult them, and an easy-to-read screen. I prefer a smaller display than the 1030 range, more compact in cockpit and lighter. Good visual interface with Garmin Varia radar. Only drawback is that the battery may require more frequent recharging, depending how many features you activate.
Review by HalloweenEagleBikeSolid, compact, do-it all bike computerby HalloweenEagleBikeCycling EnthusiastSwedesboro, NJReview for Garmin Edge 530 GPS Computer9 of 10 customers found this review helpful.The Edge 530 has been a great addition to my cycling. With the integration w Garmin Connect, its very easy to create training workouts, custom routes, and also more detailed performance stats from each of my rides. I've used it for both road, gravel, and mountain biking and its well suited for each discipline. The battery life is solid. I've only done 1 longer (5 hours) ride with it, but had no concerns of it dying somewhere along the way. Normally, I use it for several 60-90 minute rides a week and typically only charge it once every other week. It integrates seamlessly with all of my sensors (garmin speed and cadence), heart rate strap (garmin chest strap), and lights (garmin varia headlight, garmin varia radar). It has changed my cycling experience. The only reason I didn't give it 5 stars is that periodically there are some small annoyances like auto downloads restarting your ride, but these are few and far between.
Reviewed 4/3/2020Was this review useful to you? Yes, review by HalloweenEagleBike was helpful/No, review by HalloweenEagleBike was not helpfulThank you for your feedback.
The Edge 530 has been a great addition to my cycling. With the integration w Garmin Connect, its very easy to create training workouts, custom routes, and also more detailed performance stats from each of my rides. I've used it for both road, gravel, and mountain biking and its well suited for each discipline. The battery life is solid. I've only done 1 longer (5 hours) ride with it, but had no concerns of it dying somewhere along the way. Normally, I use it for several 60-90 minute rides a week and typically only charge it once every other week. It integrates seamlessly with all of my sensors (garmin speed and cadence), heart rate strap (garmin chest strap), and lights (garmin varia headlight, garmin varia radar). It has changed my cycling experience. The only reason I didn't give it 5 stars is that periodically there are some small annoyances like auto downloads restarting your ride, but these are few and far between.
Review by DanImproved GPS functionsby DanCycling EnthusiastReview for Garmin Edge 520 Plus10 of 11 customers found this review helpful.I have been using this for training and racing. The course mapping is improved over the 520. No problem finding heart rate monitors, smart trainers or power meters. Multiple displays can be set up for each type of riding that you are doing. You can have your main screen focus on heart rate, power, cadence and time and then have other screens to check lap data and so on. You can have turn-by-turn info for your course too. So far, I have used it in a race, for training and on a road bike (Favero Assioma power) and mountain bike (Stages power). Western Bike Works had a really good price for the unit.
Reviewed 9/13/2018Was this review useful to you? Yes, review by Dan was helpful/No, review by Dan was not helpfulThank you for your feedback.
I have been using this for training and racing. The course mapping is improved over the 520. No problem finding heart rate monitors, smart trainers or power meters. Multiple displays can be set up for each type of riding that you are doing. You can have your main screen focus on heart rate, power, cadence and time and then have other screens to check lap data and so on. You can have turn-by-turn info for your course too. So far, I have used it in a race, for training and on a road bike (Favero Assioma power) and mountain bike (Stages power). Western Bike Works had a really good price for the unit.
Review by CO BikerGreat Cycle Computer with Many Functions I have yet to Explore! by CO BikerCycling EnthusiastFront Range Colorado Review for Garmin Edge 830 GPS ComputerGreat computer with many functions I am still learning to use. I bought it to sync with my rear radar/tail light. Works well on both MTB and Road bike using the mount with rubber connector bands. I still have to try mounting the extender on the road bike. Not certain if the extension mount will fit the larger oblong carbon road bars. I like the audible beep for the sharp curve notifications because I typically am not looking at the screen notifications when approaching a sharp switchback! the touch screen is great!
Reviewed 9/16/2022Was this review useful to you? Yes, review by CO Biker was helpful/No, review by CO Biker was not helpfulThank you for your feedback.
Great computer with many functions I am still learning to use. I bought it to sync with my rear radar/tail light. Works well on both MTB and Road bike using the mount with rubber connector bands. I still have to try mounting the extender on the road bike. Not certain if the extension mount will fit the larger oblong carbon road bars. I like the audible beep for the sharp curve notifications because I typically am not looking at the screen notifications when approaching a sharp switchback! the touch screen is great!
Review by LSGreat features. Incredible battery life!by LSMassachusetts Review for Garmin Edge 830 GPS ComputerHad the 810 before this. I really liked it but once I connected the Varia radar unit to it the seven year old battery showed it's age. The 830 stunned me with its battery life .. still had 70 to 75 percent of a charge after more than 100 miles of riding. Multiple devices connected including power meter, radar, and electronic shifters. I love the incline grade feature and the screen customization. And the display is a dramatic improvement from the 810.
Reviewed 7/25/2022Was this review useful to you? Yes, review by LS was helpful/No, review by LS was not helpfulThank you for your feedback.
Had the 810 before this. I really liked it but once I connected the Varia radar unit to it the seven year old battery showed it's age. The 830 stunned me with its battery life .. still had 70 to 75 percent of a charge after more than 100 miles of riding. Multiple devices connected including power meter, radar, and electronic shifters. I love the incline grade feature and the screen customization. And the display is a dramatic improvement from the 810.
Review by PJFPrefer it to my old 1030!by PJFCycling EnthusiastSE CTReview for Garmin Edge 830 GPS Computer1 of 1 customers found this review helpful.Perfect! Used a 1030 for >3 years thinking I needed its large screen. When it died (Blue Halo screen) I was going to replace it with a 1030+, but then the 1040 came out. Suddenly realized I don't need all the data-obsessed features Garmin includes (which are a pain to have to shut off if that is even possible!), and thought I'd try the 830. Love it:
(1) its screen is just enough bigger than the old 820 screen that data displayed in the 10-window data screen is easily readable
(2) its alert beep is loud enough, though perhaps not quite as loud as the one on the 1030+
(3) about half the weight of a 1030/1030+/1040
(4) fast processor for quick performance
Reviewed 6/14/2022Was this review useful to you? Yes, review by PJF was helpful/No, review by PJF was not helpfulThank you for your feedback.
Perfect! Used a 1030 for >3 years thinking I needed its large screen. When it died (Blue Halo screen) I was going to replace it with a 1030+, but then the 1040 came out. Suddenly realized I don't need all the data-obsessed features Garmin includes (which are a pain to have to shut off if that is even possible!), and thought I'd try the 830. Love it:
(1) its screen is just enough bigger than the old 820 screen that data displayed in the 10-window data screen is easily readable
(2) its alert beep is loud enough, though perhaps not quite as loud as the one on the 1030+
(3) about half the weight of a 1030/1030+/1040
(4) fast processor for quick performance
Review by bikeguru54A really good cycling computerby bikeguru54Cycling EnthusiastChicagoReview for Garmin Edge 830 GPS Computer1 of 1 customers found this review helpful.I've had many Garmin devices over the years. In my opinion, sometimes Garmin gets it right and sometimes they don't. I think that they got it right with the Edge 830 - although it's too early to know about true durability yet. First, a gripe: Coming from the Edge Explore, going back to a smaller screen seemed a step backwards. However, that being said, the basic cycling information is well displayed and the screens can be customized for just the information I want to see at a glance. I really like the way it integrates with the Varia radar taillight and headlight. It seems that the alert for approaching cars is more noticeable on this unit than the Explore. I have not used all of the included features of the 830 - and one's like the crash alert - I hope I never will! However, the 830 seems like a keeper. Tip: buy the silicone case to avoid damage.
Reviewed 4/4/2022Was this review useful to you? Yes, review by bikeguru54 was helpful/No, review by bikeguru54 was not helpfulThank you for your feedback.
I've had many Garmin devices over the years. In my opinion, sometimes Garmin gets it right and sometimes they don't. I think that they got it right with the Edge 830 - although it's too early to know about true durability yet. First, a gripe: Coming from the Edge Explore, going back to a smaller screen seemed a step backwards. However, that being said, the basic cycling information is well displayed and the screens can be customized for just the information I want to see at a glance. I really like the way it integrates with the Varia radar taillight and headlight. It seems that the alert for approaching cars is more noticeable on this unit than the Explore. I have not used all of the included features of the 830 - and one's like the crash alert - I hope I never will! However, the 830 seems like a keeper. Tip: buy the silicone case to avoid damage.
Review by mikeMuch better than my garmin 520by mikeCycling Enthusiastshallotte, ncReview for Garmin Edge 530 GPS Computerroad and gravel use. Computer boots up much quicker and has much longer battery life per charge than my garmin 520.
Reviewed 10/12/2023Was this review useful to you? Yes, review by mike was helpful/No, review by mike was not helpfulThank you for your feedback.
road and gravel use. Computer boots up much quicker and has much longer battery life per charge than my garmin 520.
Review by BrickA good upgrade from the 510.by BrickCycling EnthusiastFolsom, CAReview for Garmin Edge 830 GPS ComputerAfter years with the 510, it was time to move up. The 830 is for the most part intuitive, and the touch screen features allow options to be used while riding. The ability to download segments, particularly climbs, is much appreciated. This makes it much easier to pace the 500 - 2000 foot climbs. The battery life seems excellent, on a number of occasions I have not recharged the battery but there has been plenty of life left for the next ride. The 1030 was tempting, but I prefer the size of the 830.
Reviewed 10/7/2021Was this review useful to you? Yes, review by Brick was helpful/No, review by Brick was not helpfulThank you for your feedback.
After years with the 510, it was time to move up. The 830 is for the most part intuitive, and the touch screen features allow options to be used while riding. The ability to download segments, particularly climbs, is much appreciated. This makes it much easier to pace the 500 - 2000 foot climbs. The battery life seems excellent, on a number of occasions I have not recharged the battery but there has been plenty of life left for the next ride. The 1030 was tempting, but I prefer the size of the 830.
Review by Control FreakMuch improved from the last modelby Control FreakCycling EnthusiastEast TennesseeReview for Garmin Edge 530 GPS Computer2 of 2 customers found this review helpful.The Edge 530 replaces my 5-yr. old Edge 820. I am much happier with the 530 because: 1, my screen would go haywire in the rain; 2, much faster processing with routes; 3, better looking screen that does not reminds me of my Palm Pilot; 4, much better battery life. The new firmware is also less buggy so, yeah, I am glad that Garmin (finally) up their game. I was seriously considering switching to a Wahoo Element or a Karoo Hammerhead. I would have given it 5 stars if the screen has better resolution and color-there is not excuse in 2021 to have a screen from a 20 yr. old flip phone!
Reviewed 9/2/2021Was this review useful to you? Yes, review by Control Freak was helpful/No, review by Control Freak was not helpfulThank you for your feedback.
The Edge 530 replaces my 5-yr. old Edge 820. I am much happier with the 530 because: 1, my screen would go haywire in the rain; 2, much faster processing with routes; 3, better looking screen that does not reminds me of my Palm Pilot; 4, much better battery life. The new firmware is also less buggy so, yeah, I am glad that Garmin (finally) up their game. I was seriously considering switching to a Wahoo Element or a Karoo Hammerhead. I would have given it 5 stars if the screen has better resolution and color-there is not excuse in 2021 to have a screen from a 20 yr. old flip phone!
Review by NC_CyclistGreat Deal on Garmin 530by NC_CyclistCycling EnthusiastWilmington, NCReview for Garmin Edge 530 GPS ComputerGarmin 530 has everything I need and more. I like that it turns on and is ready to go right away, syncs with my phone so I receive texts and weather alerts, uploads to Strava right after each ride, has customizable dashboards, easy map loading, and many more options that I haven't used yet. Price is always the the difficult part in making the purchase, but Western offered a great price, so I couldn't pass it up. No complaints.
Reviewed 8/22/2021Was this review useful to you? Yes, review by NC_Cyclist was helpful/No, review by NC_Cyclist was not helpfulThank you for your feedback.
Garmin 530 has everything I need and more. I like that it turns on and is ready to go right away, syncs with my phone so I receive texts and weather alerts, uploads to Strava right after each ride, has customizable dashboards, easy map loading, and many more options that I haven't used yet. Price is always the the difficult part in making the purchase, but Western offered a great price, so I couldn't pass it up. No complaints.
Review by manholemagnetDefinitely choose the 530 for longer battery lifeby manholemagnetCycling EnthusiastDenver, COReview for Garmin Edge 530 GPS Computer1 of 1 customers found this review helpful.I received a Garmin 520 Explorer as a gift. On the first ride, the extremely short battery life caused the unit to shutdown after approximately 3.5 hours. Big surprise and quite annoying. I returned the device and upgraded to the 530. The battery life is significantly better--approximately 3 to 4 times longer between charges. The Garmin 530 does what it is supposed to do, so there's that. The illumination is good --especially when riding at night or in dim natural light. My main disappointment is the learning curve necessary to manage the various functions. It is anything but an intuitive process and the "get started" booklet is basically a waste of paper; entirely insufficient. Users who want to actually use the device will need to download the more detailed manual from the Garmin website. The GPS works fine although it takes me a few minutes to locate a satellite signal; better to wait before pedaling down the driveway. I find that the post-ride map/graphic of the route is very general; vague and not helpful. All in all, I believe that the 530 provides the best value for the money. For casual riders, a wireless cycle computer still may be a simpler way and less expensive way to go.
Reviewed 8/14/2021Was this review useful to you? Yes, review by manholemagnet was helpful/No, review by manholemagnet was not helpfulThank you for your feedback.
I received a Garmin 520 Explorer as a gift. On the first ride, the extremely short battery life caused the unit to shutdown after approximately 3.5 hours. Big surprise and quite annoying. I returned the device and upgraded to the 530. The battery life is significantly better--approximately 3 to 4 times longer between charges. The Garmin 530 does what it is supposed to do, so there's that. The illumination is good --especially when riding at night or in dim natural light. My main disappointment is the learning curve necessary to manage the various functions. It is anything but an intuitive process and the "get started" booklet is basically a waste of paper; entirely insufficient. Users who want to actually use the device will need to download the more detailed manual from the Garmin website. The GPS works fine although it takes me a few minutes to locate a satellite signal; better to wait before pedaling down the driveway. I find that the post-ride map/graphic of the route is very general; vague and not helpful. All in all, I believe that the 530 provides the best value for the money. For casual riders, a wireless cycle computer still may be a simpler way and less expensive way to go.
Review by manholemagnetDefinitely choose the 530 for longer battery lifeby manholemagnetCycling EnthusiastDenver, COReview for Garmin Edge 530 GPS ComputerI received a Garmin 520 Explorer as a gift. On the first ride, the extremely short battery life caused the unit to shutdown after approximately 3.5 hours. Big surprise and quite annoying. I returned the device and upgraded to the 530. The battery life is significantly better--approximately 3 to 4 times longer between charges. The Garmin 530 does what it is supposed to do, so there's that. The illumination is good --especially when riding at night or in dim natural light. My main disappointment is the learning curve necessary to manage the various functions. It is anything but an intuitive process and the "get started" booklet is basically a waste of paper; entirely insufficient. Users who want to actually use the device will need to download the more detailed manual from the Garmin website. The GPS works fine although it takes me a few minutes to locate a satellite signal; better to wait before pedaling down the driveway. I find that the post-ride map/graphic of the route is very general; vague and not helpful. All in all, I believe that the 530 provides the best value for the money. For casual riders, a wireless cycle computer still may be a simpler way and less expensive way to go.
Reviewed 8/14/2021Was this review useful to you? Yes, review by manholemagnet was helpful/No, review by manholemagnet was not helpfulThank you for your feedback.
I received a Garmin 520 Explorer as a gift. On the first ride, the extremely short battery life caused the unit to shutdown after approximately 3.5 hours. Big surprise and quite annoying. I returned the device and upgraded to the 530. The battery life is significantly better--approximately 3 to 4 times longer between charges. The Garmin 530 does what it is supposed to do, so there's that. The illumination is good --especially when riding at night or in dim natural light. My main disappointment is the learning curve necessary to manage the various functions. It is anything but an intuitive process and the "get started" booklet is basically a waste of paper; entirely insufficient. Users who want to actually use the device will need to download the more detailed manual from the Garmin website. The GPS works fine although it takes me a few minutes to locate a satellite signal; better to wait before pedaling down the driveway. I find that the post-ride map/graphic of the route is very general; vague and not helpful. All in all, I believe that the 530 provides the best value for the money. For casual riders, a wireless cycle computer still may be a simpler way and less expensive way to go.
Review by Marin bikerVery impressed!by Marin bikerCycling EnthusiastMill Valley, CaReview for Garmin Edge 530 GPS ComputerBetter screen resolution, faster, much better battery and more capabilities as compared to my 2 year old Garmin 520+!!
Reviewed 8/6/2021Was this review useful to you? Yes, review by Marin biker was helpful/No, review by Marin biker was not helpfulThank you for your feedback.
Better screen resolution, faster, much better battery and more capabilities as compared to my 2 year old Garmin 520+!!
Review by TailwindSolid upgrade over the Garmin 520 Edgeby Tailwind79015Review for Garmin Edge 530 GPS ComputerReally like the larger screen & is much faster than the 520 Edge. Also, the ability to load proper maps is a big plus. Battery life seems to be quite good as well.
Reviewed 8/5/2021Was this review useful to you? Yes, review by Tailwind was helpful/No, review by Tailwind was not helpfulThank you for your feedback.
Really like the larger screen & is much faster than the 520 Edge. Also, the ability to load proper maps is a big plus. Battery life seems to be quite good as well.
Review by Rudyt28Great Improvement from 820by Rudyt28Miami, FLReview for Garmin Edge 830 GPS ComputerMy first Garmin was the 810, later the 820, and now the 830. I used them all for road and MTB. The 810 got the ring and sold it. The 820 I was so disappointed on the battery life on a 8 hours ride that I sold it. The 830 has a better battery life. The screen is a great improvement since it doesn't move when is raining, my 820 used to go all over the place under the rain. The touch screen has the right sensitivity with all the familiar features of the 800 series. Even though it contains a lot of things I don't use, it doesn't glitch or discard my rides as its predecessor.
Reviewed 8/5/2021Was this review useful to you? Yes, review by Rudyt28 was helpful/No, review by Rudyt28 was not helpfulThank you for your feedback.
My first Garmin was the 810, later the 820, and now the 830. I used them all for road and MTB. The 810 got the ring and sold it. The 820 I was so disappointed on the battery life on a 8 hours ride that I sold it. The 830 has a better battery life. The screen is a great improvement since it doesn't move when is raining, my 820 used to go all over the place under the rain. The touch screen has the right sensitivity with all the familiar features of the 800 series. Even though it contains a lot of things I don't use, it doesn't glitch or discard my rides as its predecessor.
Review by ZimZimDifficult setup and fragile - but great device when workingby ZimZimCycling EnthusiastSandpoint, IdahoReview for Garmin Edge 530 GPS Computer2 of 2 customers found this review helpful.Use the Edge 530 for gravel and road rides. Creating a course on Garmin Connect is a bit of a chore but is easy to follow once uploaded to the 530. My eyes are not working so well now and I really appreciate the easy to read data screen. I was using a Wahoo Bolt but just could not see the screen. I passed it on to my daughter and purchased the 530. The 530 is a huge step up in the display over the Wahoo.
After a month of use I dropped the 530 from a height of about 2 feet. No visible damage but the screen no longer worked. Garmin did send a refurbished device for a $130 charge. The 530 is quite fragile - certainly not a robust as a Wahoo device. I now have a silicon sleeve that, hopefully, will preclude damage should the 530 be dropped. My experience with the 530 is really great; with exception of the fragility. a silicon protective case is, in my view, an absolute necessity.
Reviewed 7/30/2021Was this review useful to you? Yes, review by ZimZim was helpful/No, review by ZimZim was not helpfulThank you for your feedback.
Use the Edge 530 for gravel and road rides. Creating a course on Garmin Connect is a bit of a chore but is easy to follow once uploaded to the 530. My eyes are not working so well now and I really appreciate the easy to read data screen. I was using a Wahoo Bolt but just could not see the screen. I passed it on to my daughter and purchased the 530. The 530 is a huge step up in the display over the Wahoo.
After a month of use I dropped the 530 from a height of about 2 feet. No visible damage but the screen no longer worked. Garmin did send a refurbished device for a $130 charge. The 530 is quite fragile - certainly not a robust as a Wahoo device. I now have a silicon sleeve that, hopefully, will preclude damage should the 530 be dropped. My experience with the 530 is really great; with exception of the fragility. a silicon protective case is, in my view, an absolute necessity.