Garmin Edge 830 Vs Wahoo Elemnt Roam | Top Tier Cycling Computers Put to the Test | Cycling Weekly

We put two top end cycling computers, the Garmin Edge 830 and the Wahoo Elemnt Roam to the test
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[@midhc5072]

Have had numerous Garmin devices 705, 810 820 and even tried the 530. They were all far too finicky to set up and work and the 530 had to be paired with the phone umpteen times. Moved to an ELEMNT after the 820 piece of rubbish and loved its simplicity in terms of set up and use. Now have a ROAM and equally impressed. If I'm training, I want to see what matters, not some complicated screen full of hard to see data. If I want detailed post ride analysis, I can use Training Peaks for a subscription or Golden Cheetah for free. Give me Wahoo over Garmin any day now.

[@VanHekTrading]

Switched from Garmin to Wahoo Elemnt Roam a few months back. Best decision I made in 2019.

[@peterc40]

I did the same. The comparison review is good but fails to weight the categories: Wahoo usability is so far superior that it deserves 5 points in the contest.

[@philipallen4230]

Me too. I was out for a 4-hour ride, my Garmin kept telling me I was off course when I knew I wasn't and with the turn by turn navigation on, the battery was 10% at the end of the ride. As I was doing a 200km sportive the following week I went out and bought a Wahoo to make sure the battery lasted the whole way round. Once I used Wahoo I never want to use a Garmin ever again.

[@oliverandalfred]

unlucky , looks like Garmin just miled the glitches from old units with this update , time to switch back im afraid

[@peterc40]

@@oliverandalfred My Garmin experience was continually frustrating. The video alludes to "30 minutes to configure the screen before a ride". My local group ride eventually declared a "No fiddling with computers" rule because we were always waiting for someone. After I set up my screens, Garmin released an update that replaced my custom displays with the defaults.

[@wirooudejans4939]

Me to and a lot of my friends also. My Garmin was not flawless at all. No i have a wahoo for over 2 years and have no complains

[@robinstuart9686]

I am in the market for a bike computer and am already frustrated just watching this video. It feels like both of these were design in 1999.

[@blizzbee]

They might already have a 10year product launching plan. Technology is already available, i think they just do their "business". All are very much too expensive in my opinion.

[@reldies5364]

Its kinda a niche market so thats expected. But in the end it does what it should do and will last you a long time battery wise unlike your phone.

[@brianlee6836]

Show me touch screen in 99.

[@AlexFromToronto]

These are pre-iPhone smartphone.

[@cravefour]

​@@brianlee6836 check the PDA back then

[@colinfisher2463]

My Garmin 1000 went pop so been deciding on replacing with 830 or roam and was heading towards keeping with Garmin as I know the format. This has confirmed that sticking to Garmin and going for 830 best option for me. Thanks

[@carpvictor1214]

Nobody talks about crash alert on Garmin which is absolutely amazing, I did crash one's and the computer sent a message with exact location to my partner, how good is this, that's why I will always stay with Garmin, their products are well though in all the aspects.

[@youtuby0305]

It happened to me as well, and my family got notified right away. Garmin is BEST

[@madpanda4087]

I drop my bike on the grass verge and my Garman also called my family to say I have been involved in an accident. I guess it has its ups and downs.

[@Fred_the_1996]

@@madpanda4087 you can cancel it if it's a false alarm

[@paulyflyer8154]

I switched to Wahoo from a Garmin 1000 a year ago. I have the Bolt on my my main bike and the Roam on my tourer. The best decision I've ever made apart from getting divorced. Garmin has had a monopoly for too long and will now have to up it's game massively.

[@henckellbach]

Which of the two Wahoo devices would you recommend? I've heard people complain about the Roam's sluggish performance and screen clarity.

[@neptunevibe]

Getting divorced was a far better decision son.

[@Redridge07]

@pauly flyer ... it doesnt sound like Wahoo is really better. It sounds like you are just rooting for the underdog.

[@ryanpatton7386]

😂😂😂😂😂

[@killianwrn4257]

What’s the difference between bolt and roam? Which one is better

[@icyraikkonen2516]

Now can you do an Elemnt Bolt vs edge 530 video please.

[@TheNooll]

A lot of people switched from Garmin to Wahoo. However I'm sticking with Garmin for two features which are missing on Wahoo and I love them. One is little Garmin Remote which allows me to control the device without removing my hands from handlebars and second are Ride Profiles which I adore - one for training, one for roaming through country-side and one for city riding - quite tricky to configure but I'm loving this :)

[@thebrunoserge]

garmin remote?...

[@d.z.2550]

With the Elemnt you need a phone to setup your screen on the fly - with Garmin you can do it directly on the Edge 830. And seen I ride without phone, that is a big + for me

[@bremnet1812]

Thank you for the great Head 2 Head comparison. As a Wahoo user, I was getting the itch to purchase a Garmin because it looked shiny & new. That said, your demonstration actually shown me I'm best sticking with my Wahoo.

[@rafaelrossioli9434]

Best review I've seen so far. I see plenty of cyclists complaining about Garmin battery and went to Wahoo, but in fact they are usually comparing a 3+ old Garmin with a brand new Wahoo. I was glad to see the new 830 has a great battery life comparable to Wahoo. I own a 820 Edge for 4 Years and even though I had some issues with it, I really liked, especially on mapping turn by turn. I was between going to 830 or Wahoo Elemnt Bolt instead of Roam, but my gut still says 830 for me... Still undecided. One thing is I still check reports and look at plenty of data on Garmin Connect website because Strava doesn't let me customise their reports. If I go to Wahoo I will lose it all. Has anyone tested BOLD and 830 to give a perspective? Thanks for the great review. And for Garmin 820 Users, how better is the 830? Or should I just replace the battery of my 820 and keep using it?

[@gillesr7619]

I went from 820 to 530. Best choice

[@rafaelrossioli9434]

@@gillesr7619 I did the same. I own a 530 now and I am happy with the choice.

[@rosscads]

All valid review points. On the ease of setup, I managed to pair and configure a new Wahoo Elemnt Roam while riding; Good luck doing that with a Garmin. Also there's one matter not discussed in the review: reliability. It's the primary factor for many people who ditched their Garmins for Wahoos, myself included.

[@rupertradley1883]

Both the Edge 830 and the Wahoo Elemnt Roam have been flawlessly reliable during my testing periods, no crashing or ride deleting. That's more than I can say for the Garmin Edge 820 that I used to ride with!

[@wouterbikkel8276]

I’ve got the Garmin edge 800 for almost six years. Only crashed four times during a ride. Reset along the road and than move on! At the moment the odo is more than 26.000 km at this moment!

[@JaiJai71104]

When wahoo have the same amount of units in the marketplace then you can compare .Fact is at the moment its apples and oranges .

[@KoenMiseur]

I went for the 530 in my opinion the better choice, it's cheaper than both of these and it has 95% of the function of the 830 and the main difference is that the 530 has no touchscreen but for gloves buttons are the better choice anyways!

[@stephenang499]

The Garmin Edge remote control gives the Edge 530 the ease of changing screens like the 830 and at the same time gives the Edge 830 the button functionality of the Edge 530, this is the game changer to get the Garmin.

[@richardharker2775]

@@stephenang499 I have the 530 too and initial setup with button placement created a little frustration. I'm curious about the remote control you mention.

[@BikepackingAdventures]

I have the Wahoo Elemnt and believe it or not many people ride in Winter and have to wear gloves. So in that respect a GPS with real buttons wins every time. Any device that has a touchscreen is simply not up to the job in Winter as you are unable to use the screen - oh and before anyone suggests touch-friendly gloves - you've been had they absolutely do not work - ever!

[@AdrianGrochmal]

Richard Lake exactly

[@jessetamez7362]

Sorry to disagree but my Bontrager gloves have never failed to work on my garmin explore. Two winters of use.

[@iaincameron4214]

So get the Garmin 530 - I'm not sure why this model wasn't reviewed also.

[@stephenang499]

Use the Garmin Edge remote control FTW.

[@bommeleher]

I use de Di2 Buttons to control the Garmin 😅 but also with gloves absolutly no problems.

[@charlied1675]

FWIW... I've owned the Wahoo Elemnt Bolt. While I love the ease of setup and excellent UI, the build quality over time was nowhere near the Garmin 520. The case is made of a cheaper plastic like a toy gun is made of. Buttons are covered by a cheap rubber/plastic gasket. The first unit I owned got a fried screen when I pressed one of the three top buttons. This was after only one year of use. Wahoo eventually sent a replacement unit. The replacement unit has had some software glitches along the way, but now it no longer syncs my routes on Strava. Also, the rubber gaskets that cover the buttons have all come out, requiring me to hold them on (and keep the unit from taking on water) using electrical tape. Wahoo CS would not replace the unit. So, on 'longevity' (which most reviewers ignore), the Wahoo is no great shakes. Two units in two years is not what I expect when I shell out over $300 for a computer. I left Garmin for Wahoo after having so many frustrating experiences with Garmin's clunky software and their general, "let them eat cake" approach to CS and fixing software issues. OTOH, build quality was much better and I had an old 500 that lasted 6 years. Now that Garmin seems to have upped their game on software and UI (especially with the touch screen on the 830), plus, given Garmin has a much nicer color screen for navigation, I'm going back to Garmin to replace my busted Wahoo. Now I just need to decide if I want the 830 with touchscreen or the 530 with buttons. Ultimately, glad to see Garmin have a competitor in Wahoo. Both companies are getting better at responding to the many issues and failings of their hardware and software, plus prices are more reasonable. Win win.

[@lejuanjames3196]

I've had the Edge 830 for a year now, and it has very dangerous aspect to the touchscreen that wasnt mentioned in this video. Moisture. If that screen or your fingers have any type of moisture on it, the screen becomes very unresponsive. Those seconds fiddling with the touchscreen could cost you dearly. After a few hours of riding one day my hands were sweaty and I nearly got run over because I was too busy trying to swipe on the screen.

[@kevino1733]

Great review. On the bolt, and will be sticking with Wahoo when time comes to change. Also fascinated by the way you pronounce 'button'

[@peterbee8892]

I looked 2 years ago to but a computer for the bike and after much review bought the wahoo. I upgraded to the roam last November and use all year round with gloves on for both on and off road use. The creation of routes with komoot or ride with gps gives turn by turn navigation and gives alternatives in blue breadcrumbs within a second of going off the track. I now use the garmin varia radar for solo rides and this integrates very well onto the wahoo. When riding with a buddy the Ant plus can be shared to other riders so multiple riders get the "car back " message. Angi support now available for crash awareness. Wahoo stuff just works.

[@quimicos_comunistas]

Garmin has incident detection, so you dont need angi.

[@kroko9691]

The Wahoo is the much better device for navigation. The detailed map is much stronger. They differentiate clearly between different road qualities. This is essential for a roady or gravel rider. Navigation together with data files and so on. I also don't agree to say the wahoo is not meant for power users. Those can use additional devices like a Garmin or Polar watch to have all training plans on them. You also missed out the LED stripes on the wahoo. Which you can use for power or turn navigation or whatever. Those LEDs you can also recognize with not seeing the numbers.. Not mentioned that touch screens are not working in rain and sweat... Buttons are working always and the only robust way to stop, start and doing whatever in sports. We are riding not only in sun shines and clean roads and sometime we are sweating a lot. comments below...

[@leighncsontos]

It's interesting that I'd totally agree with the way the points are allocated on this review. However I'd easily opt for the Wahoo anyday. It's very much a product that's been designed with the KISS ('Keep it simple stupid' ) principle in mind.

[@johncrocombe9214]

It seems that Wahoo added their advanced setting features to the Smart Phone App, whereas Garmin built them into the unit, and avoid the requirement to carry a smart phone to support/set the unit.

[@MichaelTandy11]

I actually prefer the buttons on the Wahoo Roam after switching from Garmin.. I found the touch screen a pain specially after hours, when you're dripping sweat or if you're riding in the rain.. the screen gets a little more difficult to use, and for the gravel riders, try using the touch screen going along... its a nightmare.. Wahoo set up and use is just 100% winner for me.

[@harrylook7810]

I've seen way too many "Garmin failed" Strava posts to ever have confidence in one of their devices. I've had a Wahoo for 3 years, and it has never once failed. Extra features and color aren't very important if the device screws up your ride.

[@richardstoffel6585]

harrylook I’ve been running Garmin for years. I had only one mishap where it restarted mid ride and i lost my data. Lucky, that only happened one time over the years so not bad. I have all Garmin avionics in my plane, Garmin on my bike, Garmin watch, even a Garmin gps in the car.

[@mikicastan]

I have garmin 520 edge for 3 years also and it has never once failed. And what now?

[@alexeykoshevoy300]

I've had a Wahoo Elemnt and it broke after 1 month of usage. I am not including the horrible navigation and constantly failing GPS. After I bought a Garmin, I never had any of these problems.

[@hw5789]

you know: never trust one garmin. Broke totally down at the tcr2016 and taw2018. Bought a wahoo and it never happened. even if I put on whole the route of a few thousands miles.

[@AlanCallow]

Yep that's my experience. Could never understand why a company like Garmin can't make a stable bike computer. Switched to Wahoo and never had a fail

[@Try_n_2Tri]

Very good review. I would suggest price should be a factor in assessment. But good review - I will likely go with Wahoo as I am not a fan of the touch screen.

[@marcsroberts]

A frustrating thing that seems to get missed by most reviews is that Strava Live Segments don't work on the Garmin units when following a route unless the segments are embedded in the route itself, and even then not all segments get included in the route Strava builds if there are a lot of them, so the segment you're interested in might be missing completely. With the Wahoo, *all* your starred segments are on the unit just like with the Garmin, but the difference is that on the Wahoo they all work all of the time.

[@jdrake7039]

I’ve used the Garmin 830 but found it useless in the rain my only solution was to lock the screen . Issues with iPhone connection as well. I now have the Roam and find it excellent with no connection issues , the Garmin does look better but if want a computer that does what it’s supposed to do then go with Wahoo.

[@godswitness3105]

830 works with a wet screen. However its horrible with a screen protector film on. Solution remove any protective film you don't need it with Gorilla glass.

[@jdrake7039]

Using the 1030 plus now and find it better than the 830 . Any recommendations on the wet screen protector?

[@mingology7767]

After watched your video, I had made up my mind which one to buy! Thanks a lot!

[@brucelangsteiner4599]

I’ve been using the Wahoo ELEMNT for about 3 years now. It does exactly what I need and is very accurate. I don’t foresee replacing it, but if I do, I’ll certainly consider the Garmin.

[@rosscads]

That what I thought too but all good things must come to an end, especially batteries. I got 35,000km from my Wahoo ELEMNT before the battery life degraded to the point of becoming unreliable. I replaced it with a ROAM and am finding a satisfactory upgrade.

[@brucelangsteiner4599]

Thanks, that’s good information. I’ve had mine for about 2 years and 7,000 miles. So far the battery only drops to about 75% after 4 hours on the road. I’m hoping it will last at least 3 more years.

[@Eagleburger90]

Had my bolt for 30 months now. Everything has broken and been replaced under warranty. Crap hardware.

[@shred3005]

I had the Garmin 810 and then 820 for many years and gave up on the flaky firmware and dodgy screen response to move to the Wahoo Roam and have found it rock solid to use. The new 830 screen looks far more responsive than previous models and navigation screens better than Wahoo so might be worth a look. You can’t beat Wahoos connection with phone app though. For somebody like me that is loading new RideWithGPS routes every week, the beautiful integration to load routes with a couple phone clicks to the Wahoo is magic

[@florianbusch3082]

Hint from the future: It‘s not better. Responsiveness = Zero.

[@shred3005]

@@florianbusch3082 I assume you mean the screen responsiveness of the Garmin 830? I don’t know as I haven’t tried one. I think I’ll be sticking with Wahoo. The one thing that went wrong with my Wahoo Roam after 2.5 yrs was that the edge of the screen started to lift or delaminate in one spot and after a few weeks the entire one side edge of the screen had kind of bubbled a bit. It hasn’t encroached on the actual data fields so nothing was obscured but I thought it may not end well so I took it back to the LBS I bought it from to ask if Wahoo was likely to help out with a fix even though the warranty is 12 months and I had been using it daily for 2.5 yrs. The LBS sent away some photos and to my suppress Wahoo came back with a brand new Wahoo Roam in box as replacement. No cost. There’s been a couple of running changes in that time eg the new one has better button actuation but here I am now with a brand new unit plus out front mount etc 2.5 yrs on so I guess I’m going to be good for a bike computer for some time yet.

[@newtonsantos_photo963]

Quite interesting comparison, Congrats!!! 👏🏻 I have owned first a Bryton 310 for the simplicity, but later on, I choose for an Edge 520 due to the colors&maps. Then, I decided to give a try to iGPSPORT 620 looking for bigger size at low cost. However, I found out reliability issues lately on this last option 🤷🏻‍♂️ For this reason, weighting ALL the PROS&CONS among the brands I owned + reviews about Wahoo, the final decision for an upgrade was to move to my new Edge 830 !!! This high end little pall syncs perfect with my magene sensors, as well as works fine with my bontrager ion/flare lights set. The data flows easily to/from Connect and/or Strava 🤙🏻 Touch screen?! Simply LOVE without any complains related to gloves and moisture 👍🏻 I honestly can say that the 830 fits perfectly in all aspects that make the MTB Rides funny, smooth & safe 🤩🍀☀️ See ya, blue skies

[@sundown6436]

I never had any issues with Strava and turn by turn navigation! I never used anything else with my Wahoo Elemnt Roam!

[@gclaytony]

Just got the the 2021 Wahoo Roam - the Strava integration is flawless so far.

[@teundilles]

Wahoo has always supported ant+. The radar support is indeed new, but ant+ has always worked perfectly fine on the element and element bolt.

[@StefanAndreiRosu]

Yup! I have the Bolt and I use it with the Garmin ANT+ sensors that I already had for my home trainer.

[@conradiep]

6 grams difference in weight. "So that's quite a significant difference..." WTF! Serious? Sneeze and you're less 6 grams!

[@troobs1990]

Yeah I mean 95-81=14 but still I agree with the sentiment of what you’re saying.

[@Alniemi]

@@troobs1990 I probably took a 800g poo today

[@martybee6648]

Hysterical

[@borasumer]

14 grams is a big difference for 80-90 gram devices, more then 15%. Not that it would affect anything, but yeah it is significant after all.

[@DjangoUnhinged]

@@borasumer But when in cycling people talk about weight, they talk about the deadweight you carry on your bike, and on that front 14 grams makes zero difference for 99.99% of average riders.

[@j-mcharing1851]

Thanks, great review of Both products. I am looking to upgrade from my wahoo rflkt+ and I was wonder how each device works with Trailforks as I spend most of my time off road on the trails?

[@sgtted7580]

Wahoo is better for me. I have had to many problems with Garmin 530/1030. Both banished to the bottom draw. The Roam just works which is what you need.

[@argeelearner3978]

Thank you, liked and subscribed!! 🚲🚲

[@BorisJohnsonMayor]

I've been using the Roam for a few weeks now. Absolutely amazing, simple to setup, battery lasts incredibly long. I commute everyday (30 minute journey) and by the end of the second week it was only at 70% battery. Awesome features overall. Highly recommend. Only negatives are: - Options for handlebar mount. Unless you have a circular handlebar then you will have trouble getting the mount to fit firmly on the handlebar. I had to use the stem mount unfortunately which isn't bad at all, just less FOV when looking down. - The main 3 buttons on the bottom of the display aren't tactile enough to the point where you feel you have pressed the button correctly. I find myself having to press it a few times before it registers the button press. Just a minor issue for me.

[@asafianski]

Is it now possible to navigate using route from any previous ride? I was using Bolt for over a year and such basic functionalities doesn't exist, switched to 530 and I'm impressed how functional bike computer can be

[@BorisJohnsonMayor]

@@asafianski Yes. For example you take a ride, it saves that route after you finish riding to the roam. Then you pair the roam to your phone, launch the app and you can save that route you just did as a 'workout'. Now your roam has that route you just did. To select it, you go to the map page on the roam, go to routes, then you will see your routes you saved below. You select it and then it starts the route. You can also switch the start and finish points so you can do back to back route tracing without having to make a new route plan on your phone. This explains the different routing features uk.wahoofitness.com/devices/bike-computers/gps-elemnt-roam

[@zyghom]

if you commute every day, is it so difficult to remember the path that you need GPS on your bike? just asking ;-)

[@BorisJohnsonMayor]

@@zyghom I don't really use the GPS navigation when commuting. I know my route offf by heart andif I go off course I know my way round London. I only use GPS for long weekend rides where I either just eye ball it and ride wherever or plan a long route I've never been on before...

[@rikkiola]

Decent review. Any chance of getting a Karoo Hammerhead to pitch up against these two?

[@TheTonicro]

So just get a garmin 530, only difference between it and 830 is the touchscreen. Cheaper than roam too.

[@Eagleburger90]

TheTonicro I got both

[@gillesr7619]

My choice also. From 820 to 530.

[@DiscotequeVIP]

@@gillesr7619 how function 530? Any issue so far?

[@gillesr7619]

@Dr.MTR No issues for the moment. Fonctions are great.

[@alexhood1853]

No way! The 830 has lots of difference from the 530. E.g. performance measurement like grit, vo2 and even air time with jumps... for mtb it can be used so differently.

[@sonneao]

Great video, it helped a lot with deciding which one to get. I have seen many videos comparing both and you said something that is seldom mentioned: the navigational issues with the Wahoo. Starting a route somewhere else other than the starting point and the device telling you to make a U-turn to go back to original starting point is just unacceptable. If you're traversing unknown roads on a long trip that pretty much sets the GPS useless. I love so many things of the Bolt over the Edge, but the main reason I'm getting a computer in this price range (vs a sub-$100 one) is the navigation. If Wahoo can't do that autonomously and well, I'm left with getting the Edge.

[@andrewjohnston1963]

My Garmin 830 works great for me and especially impressed by economy mode when I did a 3 hour ride yesterday and came back with 85% battery power! When I needed to make a turn or came to a junction it lit up automatically. When I needed to check I am on my route - just touch the screen. It has never failed me in almost a year (touching wood) and is small compact and I think looks far better than Wahoo. That said I have never used a Wahoo product. I also use a Garmin watch (VivoActiv4 for cycling skiing and walking) and a Garmin SatNav in the car and makes it so much easier just updating everything using the one interface on my laptop. I am also a plug and play guy and found it very easy to set up..

[@ITsupportian]

Yup, and another good thing.. you can broadcast your Heart rate from your watch... no need to remember to put your chest hr on

[@sandgroper1970]

I have been using an Edge 800, never used the navigation so far, but I have been using it for so long now , I would be lucky I get more than 7 hours ( the battery is not as efficient as it was). I will eventually replace it probable with another Garmin unit, cause I know of a few longer rides I would like to do where Navigation will be key.

[@BluesTheBestBoyIGuess]

Excellent Review - best I've seen comparing the 2 units. I would be inclined to go with the Garmin based on your presentation

[@aj3376]

Liked and Subcribed, Video with lot of information. Thanks

[@richardharker2775]

Nicely done. In this series of cycling computers Garmin has done some hardware changes along with software integration to vastly improve on previous models. Wahoo still remains king of setup. Maps goes to Garmin along with their connect app to get routes from the likes of RideWithGPS straight into the new series Garmin. But through all of that if you're not using the device for training your phone can do everything and more than dedicated GPS devices.

[@eileenbrodie7686]

You can add routes from Ride With GPS to the Wahoo. Wirelessly. It’s great.

[@quimicos_comunistas]

@@eileenbrodie7686 Yes but garmin Supports turn by turn Navigation with any Route and wahoo just with partners.

[@markp353]

Rupert how is the Garmin touch screen when wearing full finger gloves? And what about sweat dripping on the screen does that change/activate things. I had that problem when I had a smart phone prior to a cycling computer.

[@jim_mountain_88]

Having been a garment user for the last 7 years, with reluctance i bought a wahoo roam just before Christmas, IMO the navigation and screen are far superior to the garment. For starters i can see the screen on the roam in the sunshine, not just glare and reflection. I have never been “lost” so far with the Wahoo, with my 810 this happened at least once a month. I have the top LEDS on the Wahoo set to indicate the turn direction when navigating, saves staring at the screen when approaching junctions. And with the side LEDs set for power i can see if I’m am in the power zone i want to be in at a glance. Also with the Wahoo, I don’t suffer from accidental button presses, stopping rides 1/2 way through. I could go on for hours about how much better the Wahoo is over a Garmin, but the best thing to do is try one, I wont be going back to Garmin for the foreseeable future.

[@leslietennant1]

I would suggest that you need to compare like for like in terms of current models. I have had an 810 then an 820 and now (since 6 months ago) an 830. The 830 is so much better than the previous versions given that it has a completely new chip set in it. The display is so much clearer. (I can't comment on the Wahoo as I have not used one.)

[@OmarTan]

Leslie Tennant yeah I agree, it’s silly to compare such an old product to a new one and come away with the new product being superior, of course it’ll be superior, it’s newer in every single thing. Only compare current generation to current generation pls

[@vgnvideogameninja2930]

Garmin Edge 530, 830 and 1030 are far superior to the Wahoo Roam in every possible way.

[@JamesBond-ny3cb]

Great video. You helped make my decision on which one to buy

[@mbarina5539]

Very good review. Thank you for it.

[@boowiebear]

Great video! 14 grams. "Quite a significant difference in weight" 😂

[@manilamartin1001]

me eating pizza and beer watching this.

[@mickmeadows]

Thanks for excellent review. Hope you can answer my question: I am above beginner but not expert and have been cycling consistently for past two years around a big road/track 2/3 times per week. Because I’ve improved a lot, I want to start measuring my performance but also have a computer that can train me as I ride. For example, improve my cadence, power, speed etc. Ideally, I want all the equipment (cadence sensor, computer, smart phone, heart rate monitor etc.) all on my bike and me. I don’t have a smart trainer and probably won’t. If you can recommend a setup, it would be very much appreciated. Thanks and subscribed!

[@pedalandocomosrafas]

Thank you! Perfect video!

[@stephenfitzmaurice3528]

wahoo all day! started with the bolt and now i have the roam. both were great, but the roam is awesome for mountain biking finding new trails.

[@gewglesux]

Interesting... i'm in the market for a computer. I'm looking for a unit that really does not use my phone for anything I'm wondering why all the local shops dont carry wahoo. Thanks.

[@oliverburke3743]

Interested in this. I want a unit primarily fro MTB. What makes the wahoo so good?

[@gewglesux]

@@oliverburke3743 I ended up going with the Garmin... i might even get the watch too.. i guess i'm a Fanboy. I've never had an issue with any of Garmin products. I'll keep up with them until i do. I haven't even gotten a chance to test it out on my road bike yet. I was able to get the unit and the APP to talk to each other- which to tell you the truth i was scared of. so far so good. Make sure that you use the Lanyard if you BIKING

[@lele2794]

Great video,thanks for the good review.I’m thinking about to change to Wahoo.I just noticed the “EF” t-shirt, is there a story behind? I’m going to travel with EF soon.It’s funny how the world is connected :)

[@athletejmv]

Great video. I hadn't realized there was no site based metrics for Wahoo... that's a deal breaker for me... guess I'll be getting another Edge.

[@Tony-lc7op]

same here... dont want to pay strava for that....

[@philippeboivin8708]

To clarify things about the GPS, the real name is GNSS (Global Navigation Satellite System). GPS is the US GNSS, GLONASS is russian, Galileo the EU and BeiDou is from China. I know we are used to calling it a GPS but it's the wrong term. The selection of GNSS in units as nothing to do with your riding style or tree coverage but rather where you are on the planet. In america, most devices can use data from both GPS and GLONASS.

[@mehmd1913]

So if you live in the US and don't ride in Russia or the EU do you need to keep those satellites on? If not, it would save a ton of battery life.

[@unclebaz6676]

Have both, prefer wahoo elemnt roam for pacticality

[@CarlForde]

when weighing the units you should include the mount as well since that is required when the unit is on the bike

[@ITsupportian]

Well, you can get carbon garmin mount easily

[@graemebaillie6573]

Would be good to include reliability and support. I am sick of my Garmin breaking down and then getting either no support or expensive repairs. I want to swap away from Garmin but it still seems better device but support might sway me

[@mikeprytherch8875]

Finally a review which concentrates on the only real important features of these devices, navigation (otherwise buy a 520 or Element)... and Garmin wins hands down on every single aspect, I owned an 820 and got a Roam as the screen on the 820 was garbage and it was slow, the Roam navigation is garbage, routing on the device was hit and miss, would you put up with navigation in your car that only worked some of the time? Also when I went off route more often than not the Roam would only want to take me back to where I left the route which is useless, bought an 830 instead, screen works and it is fast and responsive, Roam was sold on eBay

[@zyghom]

you nailed it

[@Jeff-bd4gg]

I have had a very different experience with my wahoo, however an Elemnt Bolt, not roam. Navigation has been flawless for me.

[@philipallen4230]

If you want to use the head unit for programming routes then buy a Garmin but if you want to use better apps like Komoot, Ridewithgps or Strava to plan your routes in more detail then get the Wahoo, the automatic sync is so much better than the Garmin faff.

[@yap7656]

@@Jeff-bd4gg i think Bolt is a great GPS computer, I got roam but it's not as good and responsive as my old companion😊 Maybe it's early project so roam need to be polished but sometimes it's freezes not knowing why ( not loading routes and doesn't want to turn off) I think another hit for roam is limited space for maps ,it's 2020 and I cannot keep more than one country on it. Most of the time it's not a problem as I cycle locally but if I decide to take my bike on holiday that means delete existing and download new maps. Another thing is charging socket could be more suitable for me on a side of the unit so I can charge it on the go ( i use my wahoo on bar)

[@jwfriar]

Wahoo has been flawless on navigation for me. Easy to use RidewithGPS and upload. My previous Garmin products and reviews of buggy stuff told me to stay away and I’m glad I did

[@nigelhales226]

Hi Thanks for very comprehensive review all areas that I would want were covered many I’m not sure I understand. However, despite all the evidence you looked very disappointed to have to declare Garmin the winner. I’ve not owned a wahoo and have a Garmin. Yes it failed in horrendous rain, but so did I and it did recover on the same ride. I have had issues with Garmin as a company with regards their aftercare so I’m not totally sold . Both looked and are super bits of kit.But why the reluctance to declare the Garmin ‘Edgeing’ it!!

[@ITsupportian]

I have used garmin before... but 830 is just next to the next level... you have to try it

[@nigelhales226]

ITsupportian When I’m in the market I’ll follow your advice......price depending 👍

[@db-mp2of]

Enjoying the Garmin 830 Not a button pressing fan And that beautiful screen Nice slim gloss black case Win

[@videosuchen]

I use a Garmin 830 on my gravel bike in conjunction with a Shimano DI2 gearshift. You can program the switches on the dungeon handles so that you can control the Garmin computer such as switching sides. I don't know if you can do that with the Wahoo.

[@fitty77]

Sometimes, really seems like people that opt for anything other than Garmin, they do it just for that. Going for something else then Garmin. Yes they are around for a long time. No, they are not perfect. But there is a reason for them to be around for so long: they still are at the top of the game.

[@carpvictor1214]

Can't agree more

[@TheVorst]

Sorry I can’t agree. I’m not working for any of those companies. I was thinking the same thing first about the brand recognisation. Garmin are so complicated to use. Just a simple thing, when you programmed a round trip, why can’t you see on the Garmin they direction you take the round trip. I took the wrong way, it doesn’t tell me. Setting up the Garmin, took me almost 1 day. Having lot of features is one thing, but be able to use it correctly is another. I bought the Garmin because of the brand recognition and the feature set. But Wahoo seems the nail it. I have the Garmin 530 (without touch screen) and 1030plus (with touch screen). I found the 530 better, but it can’t touch the Wahoo. Wahoo setup is just 20 minutes to get setup right. I want to bike ride, not fiddling with complicated menu’s to work on things when I’m riding. It should do what I ask with click of button, instead of toggling between menu’s to get what you want. It is that bad. Even my iPhone does a more friendly job with google maps, then the Garmin. I have a 1030plus for sale (Europe), good deal. I’m really frustrating, that Garmin is asking so much money for their devices. Most major professional bike teams in Europe use Wahoo. Sorry my 2 cent and brainwash your mind, that was not the idea.

[@TheGatoskilo]

@@TheVorst id happily get that 1030+ off of you (: EU

[@mlee6136]

The big one that was not mentioned is reliability. Garmin is notorious for having software issues, join a Garmin forum and you see why. Faulty elevation, not picking ip sensors, issues with ride uploads via mobile. All my friends including me have gone through numerous Garmin units before switching to wahoo. What a Garmin has is brand recognition which continues to sucker in new buyers.

[@musiciankellett]

Dithered and dithered for ages and decided on a Garmin 530. Setting up is time consuming and frustrating. However its only to do once - well twice in my case. However once its done its done. So far so good. A lot to learn to get the best from it, but I suspect that's my fault, having moved from an edge 25. I don't think there's much in it.

[@arturkubinski5970]

For me, Wahoo ROAM wins in every category. Garmin couldn't do more than 2 data on the map for me. I walked to wahoo roam. Beautiful driving and visibility of data on the map. Finally, I have HR, CAD, SPEED, POWER, km to end, GRANDE, km to turn. For this quick button zoom map +/-.

[@strobi0001]

When you listed the features of touchscreen I thought you list the cons and then gave a point for Garmin. Touchscreen works good at home in the couch, in 20 degrees, dry weather and hands which are rarely a case on the bike. Wahoo has more functionality using reliable buttons.

[@crislee4057]

What about changing a battery, is this possible or do you have to send in the device?

[@pluckerpick]

I like the look of the climb feature on teh Garmin, % of climb completed etc. IS there anything similar on the Wahoo?

[@ryux]

My Wahoo ELEMNT ROAM is slow compared to my Garmin Forerunner 920XT in Terms of GPS. Acquiring GPS and Speed Changes are just so much faster on my old garmin watch. However I still prefer the Wahoo because of the features - display and the RGB LEDs as well as ease of use.

[@drinkyrm]

Oh the irony of watching a review of both units after getting so pissed off with my otherwise excellent 830 when it rains, the screen is so sensitive it tries to swap data fields and wont react to any sort of finger interaction gloved or not. Also as soon as there is rain or mist in the air the elevation and grade function is absolutely useless (rectified when uploaded to Strava by elevation correction). Looks like the Roam I’ve just ordered will be my go-to in the winter.

[@thegores34]

Unfortunately I'm one of those riders who, errr, sweats a lot! I had a Garmin 800 a few years ago and got really fed up with the way that sweat drops cause erroneous touch screen entries and render the device virtually unuseable, it's a similar story with my Garmin Vivoactive smartwatch in the swimming pool. On a friend's recommendation I bought a Wahoo Elemnt a couple of years ago and have never looked back, the Elemnt has never crashed like the Garmin 800 used to. It's much simpler to operate and as a reliable route planner/navigator together with ridewithgps it just works! Very happy with the Elemnt and no plans to upgrade to the latest devices anytime soon, but would have been useful to understand in the review whether anything has changed with the Garmin touch screen in this respect?

[@andresecheverri7103]

Hi!! Question... What would be your recommendation between Garmin 1030, Garmin 830 or Wahoo Roam today 3/20/20 knowing that the 1030 price has been dropped (due to new model coming up). Is still worth it getting into a 2017 model with the newer versions 830 or Roam available? Thanks much!

[@sebastienbeauchamp1256]

Andres Echeverri Just move to a Roam today from a 103- best decision

[@andresecheverri7103]

@@sebastienbeauchamp1256 thanks!!! I got the Roam 3 days ago... I cant compare it with 1030 because I have never use it... but very happy with the Roam incredibly easy to use... I have only used it indoors so far... but overall very happy... great connectivity with sensors and phone app... only negative point so far is that only connects with wifi if your router is on 2.4ghz...

[@alexgriffiths6958]

Agree with other comments about Strava routes linking to the Roam, it is seamless and gives excellent turn by turn navigation both on and off road. I've never used a Garmin but did use my phone (in a case), obviously with touchscreen and got frustrated when clearing the screen from water drops or splashes of mud and changing the display. So I prefer a non-touchscreen. One thing that doesn't work well for the Roam are the upgrades which are done over WiFi via the app. It is very iffy and I've only managed one in 3 months despite there being upgrades available. There is advice on your WiFi router settings but it is unintelligible to normal people. Presumably the Garmin can be done by plugging into a computer which is what Wahoo should do.

[@krystiannowosielecki6970]

About seting up Garmin/Wahoo. You can chang your data fields on garmin during ride (just pres and hold on the field which you want to chang, select new an its done) and you dont need to stop to tuck out your phone from the pocket. The other thing with garmin you DO NOT NEED phone to cheng/ setu up data fields. I woud say Garmin 1 Wahoo 0. Yes wahoo is kind of easier (wahoo - what you said "stil didynt find out how to chose GPS profile) to set up when you at home but you need to realy know waht you need on your display other wise during the ride you need to stop to chang it using the phone if you tucket with you, if not you stuck with the wrong set up until you not come back home.

[@langy8525]

Love my 830! Good review guys

[@rupertradley1883]

Thanks Ian!

[@Volkelseboys]

What’s your experience with the touchscreen?

[@langy8525]

@@Volkelseboys the old Garmin’s were awful. The 830 530 1030 & 1030 plus touchscreens are really good. Huge improvements

[@Digetfoil2]

I recently switched from Garmin 1000 to wahoo Roam When my buttons fell out fell out of my 2yr old garmin and garmin wouldn't fix it unless you pay them 200. But besides that the Roam is far better and easier to use. Buttons are much better then touch screen. just try and wipe mud off the screen and see what happens

[@jimroachtube]

I use Garmin connect , can I still upload my ride from the Wahoo to connect? If so how easy is it.... thanks

[@CarbonRider1]

but touch screen doesn’t work well for bike computers. Sweaty fingers, gloves, sweat drops, dirty fingers all are like kryptonite for touch screens, not to mention these mentioned things make the screen dirty from being touched. Wahoo Roam does need to fix their button issue though, it was easier with the elemnt.

[@stephenbetley9596]

Garmin has recently announced whispersync for getting routes from strava & RwGPS etc. Automatically syncs starred routes on your Strava / RwGPS account via garmin connect. If you have your Garmin to autosync via wifi it's pretty seamless. One point for Garmin on this. :)

[@ITsupportian]

Yup.. so nice... garmin engineers are trying to be on the top

[@jayaybe1]

On 24th July 2019, Shane Millar uploaded *Wahoo ELEMNT ROAM: Strava Route Turn-By-Turn Navigation Update* yet at 13:32 our host here says it doesn't work. I was hoping to buy one of these but I'm confused now : - (

[@tonymoore1671]

saw that video as well. Strava strips out the turn by turn so you need a third party service to make it work. He mentions that in the vid, too.

[@maz_mtb3266]

Do you know if the Wahoo will list the remaining climb and remaining distance like the Garmin can with a router?

[@douglasbeattie8080]

Yeah my Garmin Edge 1000 has been very good indeed but I think the battery lifespan now going as it loses battery very quickly now. I've had it for about 4/5 years and I am now swithering between a Wahoo Element Roam or a Garmin 830. I've heard a lot of good thinks about Wahoo and my fellow cyclists rated them highly and the price is better too. Decision time for me.

[@cherylbluestone]

Question: To use the connect browser, does one need a usb or usbc cable?I have found that very finicky with my older Garmin 1000. It simply won't connect to the computer. Could be that it's old. I had to purchase special garmin usb cords - which helped for a while, but no longer allow me to connect to the browser to set up rides on the devise. Can one connect to the browser via wifi or bluetooth?

[@interceptor7905]

Does Wahoo comes with speed sensor that goes to the rear wheel because I do lot of wind trainer rides,than k you.

[@yutehube7633]

So if you haven't got a smart phone you just can't setup the Wahoo at all? Or can whatever you're doing on a smart phone all be done on the Wahoo itself, albeit it would be more time consuming?

[@RYTHMICRIOT]

Don't care for touch screens with gloves on. Gimme physical buttons.

[@jeffscofield8077]

Agreed. Plus, with touch screens (I used to have a Garmin 820) I found that if it got wet or if some mud got off the screen and I tried to wipe it off, it would obviously switch screens on me. And trying to get back to the screen I wanted was a friggen nightmare while I was riding. It drove me nuts. I'll never use a touch screen computer again (I have a Roam and absolutely love it).

[@ITsupportian]

I have garmin 830, you forgot to mention Safety, most important character of Garmin, it warns u going downhill if the turn is very steep, prevents you from killing ur bike and yourself

[@philipallen4230]

Just my 2 cents but having had Garmin and Wahoo I would choose the Wahoo every time. Setup is incredibly easy on the Wahoo. The fact that routes automatically are added to the Wahoo means for me the Wahoo wins hands down on navigation, The battery life is far superior on the Wahoo, Garmin can claim anything they want but a year old Garmin's battery will not last half as long as when it was new. Touch screens are great for mobile phones but for a cycling computer in the rain or wearing gloves, buttons are far easier. I also completely disagree with your statement that the Garmin is better for cyclist with specific training requirements. The ability to seamlessly link apps like training peaks to the Wahoo and have planned workouts automatically display when you turn your Wahoo on, to me makes the Wahoo far better for training than being able to create plans on the head unit. Lastly, why do Garmins need to beep so much, I drive me mad in the bunch when everyone's Garmins are constantly beeping?

[@d.z.2550]

Hold on, Garmin let's you integrate Trainingpeaks as well. An when you have a training session in your calendar and you turn the Edge 830 on, it will ask you if you want to review it and do the session. I have been using an Elemnt Bolt for years before I bought an Edge 830. Since then, it collects dust on my desk. Btw, try this: record a ride with a digital watch, Wahoo and Garmin - compare the time afterwards. You will see that the time is off on the Wahoo. Or: use a power meter and record the ride with your Wahoo and Garmin - again, power data on the Wahoo is off. And that not compared to the Garmin but when you analyze the file on the Wahoo app or Trainingpeaks and compare it with Golden Ceetah. How many times does someone need to setup the bike computer? Once. How often do I train and rely on correct data? Daily

[@MDQC71]

Thank goodness someone else gets annoyed by the constant beeping from Garmin!

[@ivokuijpers2950]

Garmin by far.... Wahoo is a hype... also this comparison should use the 530 without touchscreen, uses less power. But be honest a good navigation device needs a touchscreen. Also the Wahoo does not have "instant routing" you need a phone, so only half a navigation device.... The garmin connect website gives you so much information, also from the sensors you use.... but hey, they invented ANT+....

[@ivokuijpers2950]

Also I hear nothing about the advanced functions of the garmin. It gives you information about the climbs ahead, in fact it gives a breakdown in segments and avarage % and duration of the climb ahead. But also a DB regarding mountainbike trails....so it is much more advanced.

[@matthewwilson2864]

Can you compare these two to the Hammerhead Karoo aswell?

[@lidhietteaguirre645]

Súper usefully, what about when raining to touch . Water proof ?

[@shem44]

I have fenix 6 watch and hope to use the HR and display it on the bike computer. Can wahoo accept the HR from fenix and display it together with other stats?

[@jonasbjork]

I am going from Garmin Edge 1030 to the Wahoo Elemnt Roam. The reason is navigation. Wahoo does draw "arrows" on the way I should follow, where Garmin is changing color to a different-to-see color (teal?). Impossible to follow the map on Garmin.

[@andybrown141]

Can you comment on which is easier to see in sunlight/shadows and in terms of screen resolution? The Garmin has a glossy screen and would be harder to see I would think, than the matte finish of the Wahoo?

[@ITsupportian]

I can see garmin very well, no problem, even with darker sunglass

[@ITsupportian]

And when tunnel hits.. garmin will automatically adjust lighting.. I believe wahoo does the same.

[@RonnyFritz]

Like with every reflective display - the more sunlight, the be tter you can see the Wahoo screen. It's just amazingly good. When it gets dark, the back light automatically will turned on. The display is not glossy so nearly no reflections on the glass. Best thing - even when riding mostly at night, the battery will still last for up to 17h with the back light on.

[@OneLessCar]

The one thing that no one seems to point out is that Garmin gives street names on the map, the Wahoo doesn't. As much as Wahooligins 😏go on about how great their computer is I've yet to find a computer that comes close to matching Garmin for navigation. I rely on navigation so much. I can ask it where the nearest gas station, hotel, restaurant, POI is and it can tell me and take me there, no phone or data needed. In foreign countries, this is a life saver.

[@andypcguy1]

How about the Bryton Aero?

[@stuartwhite9414]

This is a well laid out and balanced comparison test I think, I'll be using this to help inform my next decision. My experience for what it's worth... As with most other folk, I spent most of my years using Garmin, but after a number of glitches and lost rides, I began to lose patience. In 2018 I had a big event coming up with lots of mapping required so took the plunge and bought a Wahoo Elemnt (the original big one). As mentioned in this film, the companion app blew Garmin out of the water, the device performed well throughout the event and indeed for a good year or so onward, but after about 18 months, things started to unravel a little. Having to unpair and reinstall the device every couple of months when files stopped transferring, the battery life steadily decreasing, and wildly inaccurate elevation data, are little things I'd just gotten used to, but the total factory reset it performed and deletion of a large ride recently has got me looking for a new device. I've had the Wahoo for about two and half years now, and it’s covered about 25,000 miles, so perhaps I’ve just worn it out, but I’m not brand loyal to either Garmin or Wahoo so I’m not worried about ‘going back’. The Wahoo app is better, it’s incredible against the competition, but I find it annoying I can’t get on a desktop when I want to. The Wahoo mapping is ‘quite good’ but just not as comprehensive as Garmin. I left Garmin because of unreliability and losing rides, but as the Wahoo is clearly capable of performing the same miracles, there are now far fewer reasons to stay with them. With their progress made in touchscreen, there’s a good chance I’ll be returning to Garmin.

[@Michael-dt8ll]

is the roam also good for MTB (Trails etc) or just for roadbikes? i have both, mtb and road and i'm looking for al "one to it all" device. So, currently i'm standing between the ROAM and the Garmin 830.

[@deyvireynoso9237]

same here

[@yeorgemusic]

What did you eventually go for? Seems like Roam is better at adding routes and syncing with the app..