Wahoo Roam vs Garmin 830 (my side by side experience + Garmin Give-a-way)

[@daletam3893]

I’m a garmin guy and watched your video. Didn’t like how you hated my garmin stuff. Then my edge 520 died. Bought an element bolt. It’s better. I don’t know how you broke my garmin but well done. Wahoo owes you some commission.

[@weathdone]

LMFAO!!!!!

[@gijsbloemen9392]

Can i ask where you bought it? trying to find one myself but it is sold out everywhere...

[@MistakeUponLake]

At least you can upload all your cycling activities automatically to Strava, without having to use a USB cable like it's 2012...

[@daletam3893]

Gijs Bloemen just read this. Got it at my local shop. He had limited supply. It’s in Edmonton, AB. Let me know if you want the contact info.

[@besitoo69]

What about automatic vo2max value and automatic ftp calculating? Do wahoo do it , cause i have it in my 520 but i am turning towards wahoo mainly because its app but i cant find nothing about those two

[@gesicht315]

Biggest take away of the video: Apparently it is okay to sell 2010's smartphone hardware in 2020 for horrendous prices to consumers if you're a manufacturer in the bike industry.

[@JustinDoesTriathlon]

Cars, too. It's shocking some of the utter crap infotainment that's in brand new cars. The touchscreen maps lag and jutter like Android smartphones in 2011. It's crazy to me.

[@appala]

I agree with your comment to some extent. But you need to consider that these devices do not sell the same volume as any smart phones. Devices are cheaper when purchased in high volume. Are they over priced? Absolutely but they also offer plenty of stuff that goes with it. Garmin has connect which is super nice and several other features. They dont make billions of dollars like Apple/ Samsung does. They(Wahoo and Garmin) support sports and are heavily invested in it. I know some of the money i pay for them benefit cycling

[@ястреб-ц7ц]

@@appala to be honest, I think that the essence of a bike computer is that you take the phone, make it stronger and more secure, remove everything unnecessary, including the touch screen (as Wahoo did), reduce it in size, add several transmitters (the phone has 1 bluetooth ). While speaking about software, keep in mind that android and ios have many times more software than bike computers. So I also don't understand the phenomenon of bicycle computer pricing. The software and hardware in them is really primitive. But we have what we have, I am also a Wahoo owner, since there are no alternatives on the market

[@joaoletelier8735]

Same with digital cameras. My gf has a Canon EOS mk3. It retailed for like $4000 and when you see and use the interface you'd swear you're using an old Nokia from the early 2000's. It's a joke.

[@ястреб-ц7ц]

@@joaoletelier8735 true

[@geoffgoldplum1231]

Welcome to the completely unbiased and objective ROAST of the Garmin 830

[@thestamsvideoproduction7427]

I don't know how the edge 830 works but know how the wahoo works but here's my opinion on both 🤦🏻‍♂️. 1 week of knowledge vs 1 year of knowledge.... Not really comparable.

[@kenkilmurray6574]

If you do like Garmin pay the extra $100 for the 830. The X30 is designed for a touchscreen so the 530 buttons amplify everything bad about the 830.

[@alfred2g]

And everything is a maybe for the Garmin.. he could do his homework well before creating the video, and no "maybe there is a setting for it"

[@Casperdroid5]

@@kenkilmurray6574 true and no full navigation. So you're screwed on a ride and you wanna change your route.

[@GerardvanReekum]

@@Casperdroid5 Through the phone, you can navigate on the go also with your Wahoo. But I never had to.

[@TheVCAdventures]

I REALLY didnt want this to be a Garmin bash fest, but I had so many problems with the computer in one week that it was hard to not let that come through. I am sure Garmin users will be upset that I didnt give it a fair shakedown, but as a new user to Garmin, like anyone would be if they bought this, I found it very difficult and confusing to use. Like I said, that probably just comes down to that I am very comfortable with Wahoo and not with the Garmin. Take this as MY OPINION and not some super technical analysis, Competitive Cyclist gave me both of these, so I am not trying to shill for Wahoo, I just personally had a hard time with the Garmin and I explain why. Also, I mention it's a 530, but it's an 830. I am idiot, that's 100% confirmed.

[@BlackWaterCyclist]

Garmin have always been kinda clunky and take more time to get set up. I actually started using a cell phone when Garmin had the 510 because it was so slow. You didn't bash the Garmin, I think it was a great viewpoint from a Wahoo user. Thanks man.

[@kenmiller5106]

I have been using Wahoo for two years, after I used a Garmin for 8 years. The wahoo is money!!

[@RedNeckBiker109]

I hate garmin and now that I know they sell shock collars that abuse animals im out. garmin can suck it.

[@plantfuelled8912]

As long as your honest, it doesn't matter. You're used to the Wahoo. I used to hate on iOS, but after I was given a load of 2nd hand Apple stuff by relatives I just see ios vs Windows vs Chrome os vs Linux as all with their own pros and cons. Got a slow machine? Chrome os. Want free stuff? Linux. Loads of games and apps? Windows. Need good security? ios. Student = Chrome os, Phd Student = Linux, normal dude = Windows, rich dude = Apple. A huge oversimplification but mostly right.

[@FPL_Drago]

It's not really a Garmin bash though. As a past Garmin user (been with the Wahoo Bolt since its release) I watch your video on a new Garmin and it's the same issues. Look and feel are far superior on Wahoo. It's far more intuitive. Garmin are massive and I'm sure it has some great features but Wahoo in its simplicity (Bolt is amazing for this) is a winner.

[@pmb0001]

The way in which Garmin has introduced incremental changes, remedying problems in the superseded model, have been at the user’s (such as myself) expense. After owning; 510, 520, 810, 820 & 1000, I went over to Wahoo and I will NEVER be going back - there are times (not many) where I be tempted to go back to the dark side, but being the financial guinea pig to support Garmin improvement leaves me stone cold.

[@robb2835]

I like the bike alarm on the 530

[@mf0u3021]

Your mistake here is never owning the Garmin 500. Since they went to touchscreens they’ve all been utter trash. I don’t really need a new computer but it’ll definitely be a wahoo.

[@okivijerviphoto2088]

Agreed 100%. Had a great time with Polar, temptation and expectations was too big and i falled inn to «the dark side». For over 2years, it was like an undefined itch never going away. I had the courage to try ROAM. Ahhh... simplicity is bliss

[@ChazTurmon]

I switched to wahoo and fell in love. Attempted to move back to garmin when the 530 dropped. Had it for 2 weeks and then sold it and returned to wahoo. The workout mode and segments work flawlessly.

[@WheelersAtLarge]

I recently bought a Wahoo Roam as my first ever bike computer so I don't really know much but I couldn't ignore the frustration of other group riders with their Garmin's, and considering how long Garmin have been in the business surely this shouldn't be the case.

[@sjoerdeggenkamp4004]

I have this with my motorbike GPS. The culprit is: the user interface is terrible. It pretends to do all kinds of fancy things it can't actually do and then pisses over your route.

[@rayh7094]

Okay! So I just started cycling over year ago at age 36 and I love it now! After riding for a while I start getting bored, similar to any other sport (especially running) I knew statistics will ignite that love again, and it sure did. Seeing improvements in numbers that hard to feel is crucial for this sport, so I started using Strava, the only annoying part was using my phone as a computer and buying an entry level computer is not ideal! A good bike computer and a power meter are on my list to get in the next couple years, and with the cycling season starting here in Ohio it would be great to get a decent bike computer!!! Ride safe and ENJOY it everyone!

[@TobyDarnley]

With the Garmin range. If you have Shimano shifters that have the buttons on the hoods. You can get a part called a 'D-Fly'. It is something that can let you change your Garmin pages using those buttons. It is especially helpful in the winter when you're either wearing full finger gloves, or it is wet and you can't use the touch screen on devices such as the 830 or 1030. It also works with other Garmin headhunts, however it isn't as much of an issue.

[@tendreheart7]

Thank you so much for the review! I don't understand some of the criticism you're getting--your review felt honest and it was your real user experience. I've not used any bike computer at all and the Garmin seems to have excessive features and some strange design choices (the screen). ✌🏻 Peas!

[@ashleymcavery4132]

Been using a wahoo elemnt bolt for 2 years, love it. Safe to say I'm a wahoo fanboy now. Great video and you are correct about the Android Vs iOS comparison.

[@mura0]

The glare alone is a deal breaker for me.

[@plipiec]

I am long term Garmin user. I used their watches during my running trainings and it was fantastic. I manage "from zero to marathon" program with garmin 620 watch. I'm also using Fenix 5x, with is awesome gear. However, after watching a bunch of videos about wahoo and Garmin solutions for cycling I decided to go with Wahoo ROAM and... This is totally awesome pies of technology! I just love it!

[@coletamburri4848]

Re: multiple live segments on Wahoo: if one ends, you can still see the others going on by pressing “SEGMNT” in the lower left corner of the screen. Can also toggle between segments that are happening simultaneously that way! Took me a while to realize that, but it’s a game changer.

[@FPL_Drago]

Jeez...I did not know that. Embarrassing as I have had my Bolt for a couple of years at least. Thanks.

[@orsations]

Says a lot about Wahoo being "intuitive"

[@danielbaldey7577]

I use a Garmin 830 and can’t praise it enough. Decent battery life, live track and safety works well, Strava segments work fine, all the data you’ll ever need and most importantly the navigation and features have never failed me.

[@JitinMisra]

Do u need to Use your phone to import navigation data ? Or does it have built in navigation ?

[@MarianChicu]

@@JitinMisra it can do both, build routes on the 830 and also import them in Connect. It also has real navigation to an address (since it has full maps).

[@mariop.4898]

Thank you for the video, even if it was linguistically difficult for me to follow, but I understood the most important thing. Unfortunately, my English is very bad. For weeks I have been thinking about getting a Garmin 830 or a Wahoo Roam. This video and the comments in the chat have now convinced me to buy a Wahoo Roam. Greetings from Baden near Vienna, Austria.

[@alexandruhojda160]

I have gotten my 530 a few weeks ago and i love it. I have a friend with a Wahoo, he likes his, i love mine and i have gotten used to it

[@stephenbetley9596]

Some comments, and for clarity I'm on an Edge 1030 with latest 9.5 firmware. Don't have a Wahoo unit, but have Kickr & Tickr, so fingers in both pies. So some help for Garmin x30 users... 1. Navigation visibility. You can set the visibility for the map at: navigation > map > map visibility. Setting to high contrast will show sharper lines. 2. Map turn display. This is a fairly recent config which is frustratingly defaulting to flipping to the map display. You can set the guide text to display text only in: navigation > navigation prompts > text only. 3. For the routing the default is popularity mode & highways & road. Navigation > routing has a lot of options which may give a better point to point route. Just needs experimenting with: popularity, routing mode, calc method, lock and avoidance settings have an effect. 4. Strava live segments: don't use it, so no view on this. 5. For workouts it's really easy to just create your own activity profile called workout and create a new screen with the fields you want, in the sizes you want. Not really a valid criticism. There's also connect IQ for custom data fields. But yes, Id like the option to set the default font size. With the 1030 the small is just readable, smaller units I have difficulty. My one big gripe with Garmin, though not my only one, is that I have to set it all up through the unit. This is something Garmin have to sort out, with either a specific app, or ideally as an add-on to the Garmin Connect smartphone app, and/or web app, or through garmin express. Maybe for x40? One big plus for me on the garmin is Climb Pro. They've put a lot of work into this and it's starting to show. Import or create a route and they're there with lead into the climb and veloviewer-like gradient colours. Very neat. Not bashing Wahoo in any way, never tried one, though heard good things.

[@bene3445]

what do you think about the display visibility? I have a 1000 and I can't complain about it. But I'm really curious if the wahoo is better

[@thestamsvideoproduction7427]

The new edge 830 and 530 screens are much nicer when compared to the 1030.

[@biglampar556]

@@thestamsvideoproduction7427 No it's not - i've got the 530 and vegan was spot on highlighting how 'shiny' the 530 screen is compared to the matte Roam. There's a very narrow angle of view to optimize the 530 screen - basically you'll need to angle it down so it catches as much light as possible while still being able to see the screen properly. The only downside to the Roam is that it doesn't auto page you to the mapping page when the turn comes up . The Garmin does that and it's really useful - in vegan's video he was frustrated that it removed his data page every time the turn comes up. You can set it such taht you don't get the page changing to the mapping - turn instructions. Oh and don't get tricked into getting it for Climbpro - it's doesn't really work as advertised. There are issues with it. Garmin is really good at producing half-baked features.....climbpro, virtual partners comes to my mind. And more colors don't necessarily make it a better screen.....especially when your route color is magenta and the surrounding roads are brown and red.....good luck telling which one is your route when you're on your bike trying to avoid running into a tree, being runover by a car and avoiding pedestrians and their pets (dogs and children).

[@itiosso]

You the real MVP!

[@janpeterlassen7791]

@@bene3445 Edge 1000 user here as well, and in bright sunlight I can often hardly read the numbers or the map. My wife has a Wahoo Bolt, and it is way (like WAAYYY) better ;)

[@aaronpropes9134]

THANK YOU for mentioning the biggest issue with touch screens and outdoor devices - they don't work in the rain, or in the winter. When it's near 0F and you're still on a bike, you can still change things on the Wahoo with gloves on

[@shendyhendrawan9254]

i’m using edge 530, and my friend just bought wahoo elemnt bolt, i think both of them are great products for specific user. For me garmin edge are made for cyclist that love to prepare their data screen and love to change and spend a lot of time with their cyclocomp, and I love that. I’ve tried to make my data screen works like wahoo by pressing the up and down button to zoom in/out the data screen and it works but I don’t need that, so I get back to my default data screen. But after tested wahoo, I know why so much people love them. But still, no complain for my garmin and big kudos for wahoo 👍🏻

[@VetCyclist]

Also the Garmin Edge 830 works really well when wet, you just need to tap on the white hand icon on the map screen to move the map touch screen function. You are swiping the screen before taping on the white hand in your video.

[@FlyWithMe_666]

Looks like Garmin got stuck on 2009 smartphone technology, but wanted to include everything that was available at that time in this device. Whether it makes sense or not. Touchscreens, thin coloured lines, complicated sync and set-up, reflective screens, ... Wahoo seemed to think a little more out of the box and designed a UI and buttons specifically for such a small device. I got the Bolt and it looks a little dated now (no colours, doesn’t re-calc routes when off track), but its size and low price, it’s still the perfect unit for my basic training and navigation needs. But at the end it may come down to personal preference. Good thing is that there is competition and we as riders have a choice.

[@yap7656]

Bro bolt is a great unit I got roam and I don't use new features at all,may only use tbt but only because it's turned on. The colours don't make too much of change. What I do like ,it's bigger screen and that's all for me. I need to admit I did not play with it long enough to tell about the unit but if you own bolt ,you don't miss much imo

[@mf0u3021]

Haha, so true. The Garmin 500 is their last good computer and surprise surprise... no touchscreen!

[@brunospasta]

Wahoo Bolt. Still best head unit out there in my opinion. Just doing the basics really well.

[@GS-pk9rd]

The touchscreen works well for me. Can't compare it to a phone touchscreen, you'll know if you've tried using a phone in the rain or with gloves!

[@joelell1]

I recently bought a Garmin 530 on sale as my first computer and seems so far to be a great middle ground. I wanted some features not on the cheaper Elemnt Bolt (~$230), but I didn't want to spend close to $400 for either the Roam or 830.

[@matthewdutton119]

Great review. Really like the tabs on the screen to keep your review organized.

[@NetMillionaire]

I was going to buy the bar in but saw so many good reviews about the wahoo. And your review confirmed to me that my decision to buy the wahoo is the best option especially as I’m new to road cycling and want SIMPLICITY, and touch screens for riding in the rain and sweat DONT make any sense. Super great review. I’m a new subscriber, Keep up the great work.

[@markhallowell4059]

Went from Garmin to Wahoo and back to Garmin. Both systems have good and bad points.

[@HumaneNewt]

What made you switch from wahoo back to garmin?

[@markhallowell4059]

@@HumaneNewt The screen was a big reason for getting a 1030, way bigger for my old eyes. I also found the connection to the phone for getting notifications for calls and messages was unreliable and you can't tell whether the phone is connected or not on the Wahoo. The Garmin tells you that you are connected to the phone so you know it works. I need that function for after hours works calls and messages. The Garmin also does not connect sometimes, but you can see on start up and sort out before riding.

[@mikemartin2988]

I had Garmin went to Wahoo my Bolt broke, Wahoo gave me a warranty discount. I purchased Garmin instead mostly because of Varia. Then Wahoo was able to use Varia software. Recently purchased the Roam and love it. So much easier to use with the app, also getting older and need a bigger screen:)

[@shaneralston5489]

If you have Di2, then you can program the buttons on the lever hoods to change Garmin screens, I’ve done this on my 530 (though the 530 doesn’t have touch screen)

[@juanguillermogonzalez2764]

You can do the same on a Wahoo

[@mf0u3021]

Stay well clear of Garmin touchscreens is all the information you ever need.

[@Fozzee.1970]

Ron England complete rubbish. That used to be the case but the recent ones are fine.

[@mf0u3021]

John Foster ‘fine’ compared to what? They’re fine compared to a self serve checkout till, but they’re not ‘fine’ compared to a phone touchscreen.

[@Fozzee.1970]

Ron England well they aren’t a phone for a start. And they are perfectly fine for their use case. I have used Edge Explore and Edge 830 with no issues. The older ones I agree are poor and unresponsive.

[@QueenShanine]

i was struggling choosing between wahoo bolt and garmin 530 for weeks. i had a Wahoo Kickr but had been using garmin watches for years. I ended up with the Wahoo. Why it was on sale LOL! However I still ride with my garmin watch so i get the best of both, but my wahoo is simplistic in the best way and I need that for my cycling computer. Great vid.

[@stevecrabb1]

Very fair review. You can have segments just pop up on the 830 but the fact that you could not easily enable it speaks volumes for UI setup of the Garmin. I have an 830 and there is only one reason why I have it and not a Wahoo, it allows me to use Xert which has an IQ Connect app and worth every penny. I spend 95% of my ride time in the Xert app training outdoors. So if I was not using Xert I would have a Wahoo for sure. Having said all that I am very happy with the Garmin generally.

[@tangoalpha6013]

Interesting review,,, however, what maps is whaoo supporting for trails?

[@gauloisrefractaireenexilvo4366]

Thank you Tyler, that's a practical and articulated review. I have been on the market for 3 months + to replace my Cateye. I was leaning towards the Wahoo because the ease of use. You just got me sold. That's the first thing I am going to order as soon as I am recovered from an unwanted encounter with a reckless taxi who hit me from behind after ignoring the right of way.

[@sherenecurry4]

Excellent product. Very happy with my purchase!

[@kchall5]

I just purchased my first computer, and I did as much research as I could to decide between Garmin and Wahoo. I decided on the Wahoo, and am happy I did so. It just seemed that most cyclists of all levels that I follow on KZbin were rocking Wahoo (including VC). Garmin, being primarily known as a car GPS company, probably designed their cycling products as an afterthought. On the other hand Wahoo IS a cycling-centric company, and it's logical that their product is more cyclist-friendly.

[@thestamsvideoproduction7427]

Garmin is a GPS company. They design devices for cars, planes, boats, off road vehicles the list goes on. Garmin are front runners in the cycling industry. They have majority market share. So they aren't behind in the cycling game 😉👌. Many pros use Garmin. Pros, not KZbinrs but professionals that get paid to cycle not videos that endorse certain brands 👍.

[@mlegrand]

Hey VC, I've also tested both of these devices and I agree with your assessment 100%. I kind of consider myself a 'Garmin Boy' and there are some small things that I think might give Garmin the edge but I have no problem recommending any of modern bike computers from Wahoo. 👌 Currently loving the Bolt because I rarely need maps.

[@Evan-zj5mt]

I used to have a garmin 520 and when I switched to Wahoo I was stunned. There is no going back. Just look at all of the images: do you see any reflections in the Wahoo? Just the fact that the Garmin screen is reflective is a deal breaker for me. Touch screen is totally overrated, especially in the UK - I'm cycling with winter gloves 6-7 months of the year, gimme those big mf buttons.

[@Grunge_Cycling]

Yes the Garmin screen is booboo

[@guzz95]

Just bought a Wahoo. Thanks to your review! Got it on Competitive Cyclist. Tried your code, but didn’t work. Love you channel!

[@davegratz5895]

Discount codes have certain brand exclusions, including Wahoo.

[@MrRoyGS]

After 4 years of owning a 520 I switched to a wahoo ELEMNT Bolt. I’m glad I did. The wahoo bolt is not perfect but definitely better than the Garmin. In my experience, the Garmin had way too many issues year round no matter if it it had the latest update or not. Only thing on the Wahoo speed sensor is that it it over measures distances. Just as an example on a 21.6 mile course I’ve been riding for many years it measures at 22.1 miles. On longer rides it measures over by as much as 1.5 miles. I already reached out to tech support and waiting to hear back.

[@Evan-zj5mt]

That's strange. I have made the same switch and I never noticed that. I also have a Garmin forerunner 45 and I always record my rides on that for my health insurance and just in case the battery on my tickr dies. Never any difference. I'd love to know what is causing the difference.

[@ianroberts1813]

Good overview and backs up what I already knew about the Garmin devices and Wahoo devices. I used Garmin for nearly 20 years, watches, hiking and biking, but no longer. After years of being frustrated with poor software glitches and crashes (800, 810, 1000), I switched from a Garmin bike device to Wahoo one (element - yep the basic one) and I was immediately impressed with just how easy it is. More importantly - it works! I've had a couple of glitches and the elemnt software is not the greatest but it works. The non-reflective screen is a big bonus too. Just about to upgrade to a wahoo elemnt roam. By the way, I'm not a Garmin hater - I still use a Fenix 6X watch for other sports.

[@ClassicCyclingCC]

I bought a brand new Garmin 530 as it was recommended by several well known online reviews as most bang for your bucks. Then I got lost on a long ride away from home and was horrified to realize that there is NO WAY 1) to enter an address or 2) to reverse a course from the device. And I won’t say anything about all the glitches I have encountered trying to connect the device to my iPhone. I am getting rid of my Garmin and will stay clear of their product from now on.

[@tominmontreal824]

Had Garmins for years ... was fed up of things not working properly. Wahoo Roam just works!. Intuitive. Control from phone. Sensor hookups. Route transfers from Strava and Komoot seem-less. I’m a convert!!!

[@mierzhen]

4:44 Even Google Maps still does this, where you plot a route, have it set to commute by bicycle, and it will suggest routes that aren't accessible to the public. For example, cross this path here, but it's private access for utility companies only. Take that path here, but it goes through a private gated community. Another path that is suggested, well the road is closed off and barricaded/private property.

[@louiego1162]

Thanks for telling it as it is man, i bought the Roam because of this review and very happy that i did

[@bradwood5994]

Dude, best review on these computers to date! So thankful. Allows me to make a clear decision. Keep being you, love you buddy!

[@StevenSenatori]

This is by far THE BEST side by side and thorough comparison I've seen of the Wahoo Roam and Garmin 830/530. Based on your review, I think i'm going with the Garmin for my next bike computer (had the 520, think i'm just going to the 530 since it's like the 830 but without touch screen and without routing, but that's okay, I create my routes with Strava Route Builder anyway)

[@thierrylerinckx1340]

Good review. I have used Garmin for many years (still use) and had a dozen units from them. My main experience with them is that you always have to put up a fight to get them to work as you want.

[@jamesdoherty8758]

I have the Garmin forerunner 230 and vivoactive watch. I really like Garmin for running and swimming but I have not heard great things about their cycling computers. I used the watch for riding for a while, which is fine when you know your route but as rides got longer I needed navigation, and a phone battery life won't last. I asked around for reviews and was told wahoo was the way to go. So Monday the Wahoo Elemnt Bolt arrived. I can still view all of my activities in Strava as a whole.

[@carlesduran5590]

I ordered a wahoo today and this video made me realise I am more a wahoo guy. I saw many other videos and any of them are clear as this.

[@keithgordon702]

Good review. I just upgraded my 5yr old 520 to an 830, basically just for the better battery life and the true navigation. I don’t use any of the fancy widgets other than the standard data fields. I don’t even use the Eat! Drink! prompts lol. But I do like the touch screen vs the push buttons. I haven’t really noticed the shiny screen on either computer (it’s much better than a cell phone’s that’s for sure) but maybe that’s just because I haven’t used the Wahoo.

[@stevegeek]

Keith Gordon I upgrades from an Edge 1000 to Edge 830 and love it.

[@morgano9832]

Never noticed the glare problem before you brought it up.

[@TheDestroyer8065]

Planning to buy a Garmin edge 830 by end of this month and this video confused me and it's about to change my mind. but I saw how fair you reviewed both cycling computers.

[@palicar]

I'm still on my first computer - Garmin edge 520 Plus. It has been a year or so of confusion and dead ends and factory resets WTFs and whatever just ride. It works .... I guess ..

[@morgano9832]

Yes Ive been using the Edge 520 plus since release. It works for its purpose like you said and I have learned to get around its interface with experience. But everything can be improved

[@selder03]

You nailed it. Apple vs android... Mac vs Windows. Etc. I'm a android \windows guy. I love the detailed customization to me. I also love the Garmin watch integration as well. Maybe because I run too.

[@wouthartveld6226]

Dude, on 3:49 you say that 'take me to' on the wahoo roam is only done via the phone, it's however possible on the headunit itself. If you go to the 'route' page and press the bottom left button you see a list of routing options, scroll down 'to take me to' and press on the bottom middle button. Then choose 'location on map' and then you can choose your destination just as on the 830. It is a bit of a hassle sometimes but it definitely works when you need it. But I love your video's, keep em coming yeahh🤙🤙

[@funnights74]

Terrific video, you didn't cover battery life, probably the main reason I bailed out of Garmin and switched to the elemnt roam a few years ago. Also garmin connectivity and the store is very erratic. I switched and I'll never go back but I am tempted to upgrade to the new roam mainly because if what you mentioned about the screen crispness and clarity in all circumstances, it looks terrific and I am tempted.

[@hestkjaer]

I have both the Garmin Edge 1030 Plus and the Roam.. One thing you don't even mention is the integration of app, like Strava Routes and Komoot! If you are home and make your route, the integration on your phone with the Wahoo is fantastic, and the Garmin is acceptable! But, let us say that you are out riding on Mallorca, and decides that you want to do about 100km more that day, from point X, meaning you have recorded 30km's and now want to make a custom route.. That is where Wahoo's integration with the apps works so much better than Garmin. I did it with my 1030 plus, and both apps is under IQ apps. But... Selecting a route in the apps only gave me the option of ending my current course!!!! I did the same with my Wahoo, and voila, the route was loaded from Komoot and I had a nice route, and I didn't have to have 2 recordings for that day.. And integration of Garmins own Varia is honestly weird on the Garmin, on the Wahoo you have a green/orange/red sidebar - showing at all time that it's connected the Varia, and not least if the rear is clear. Plus, on the Wahoo you have an accoustic sound when the track is clear behind you, meaning, you don't have to look at the Wahoo to verify, and when I do grouprides all around me react to the sounds from the computer. In short, there is also positive things with the Garmin, but I feel that the Garmin is like a Swiss knife, it want to be everything.. And yet it's so cumbersome.. ;) And for now, I will learn to accept the Garmin workflow even in this outage, since my wife stole the Wahoo...

[@SuperbikeRob]

I with ya........only thing i wish is that Wahoo would add the lap summary page that you could have up while you did intervals or laps on course........none of these are absolutely perfect, i've tried Garmin, Wahoo, Hammerhead, Bryton, Stages and Lezyne.....LOL. So far it's the Roam for me too!

[@mitchellsteindler]

The only reason someone should in any circumstances buy a garmin cycling computer is if they use a garmin watch for everything else. In that case I would recommend just using the watch. The watches are far more reliable than the computers for some reason, and the touchscreen is absolutely terrible on the computers. Seems like someone with a garmin loses their ride on half my group rides.

[@abstractgroove160]

I had a Garmin 810 a few years back. The thing was so buggy and annoying, I hated it. I stupidly lost it in a cafe and never got it back. Bought a Wahoo Element Bolt. I thank myself every day for losing that damn thing. The Apple/Android thing is a sensible comparison. Wahoo are definitely the iOS of the argument ;) Fun video VC 🤟🏻

[@monkeyboy0404]

I have one of the first Wahoos. I bought in early. It has incrementally gotten better with every update. I don't find myself wishing for color or a touchscreen. Garmin on the other hand has been a mess of bad updates, unintuitive OS, and new features that you don't get access to. My Garmin experience has been with multiple Garmin watches in my household. My personal feeling is that when Wahoo makes a watch, there will be no more Garmin in my house.

[@waynosfotos]

Jim Williams Same here had a elemnt since it was in its early stages, update a week. Hasn’t messed a beat in 4 years.

[@trumptman]

Seems like a pretty good attempt to compare the two. If he was more familiar with the Garmin a few points would have changed. Garmin does have an option in settings for how navigation prompts are displayed. It can stay on the training page and just pop in from the bottom. Many of the extra pages you mention can just be turned off. I own a Wahoo Kickr Snap and Tickr HR strap and an array of their sensors. I also own a Garmin Edge 830 and Fenix 6 watch. Each company has their quirks, strengths and so on. One simple thing to note about this video though is Garmin likely has a lot of folks looking into the 830 because they are coming from prior products. If they are new to the scene and not quite ready to spend almost $400 on a bike computer then Garmin can snag them with the 530 which is not touch screen but has full mapping and a color screen or they might end up grabbing them with the Edge 170 which is well below $200 and has a very sharp black and white screen with breadcrumb navigation much like the Bolt. Once you are in the ecosystem as long as they keep improving and an array of new and better products then there is less motivation to leave. Many folks equate the 530 with the Roam and in that comparison the Roam is more expensive, has less storage space, etc. Garmin releases many features that are refined via their users over the life of each bike computer. That is the polite way of saying their users end up being beta testers at times but many of the features do end up being very useful and cool. I do like ClimbPro as an example. I love using my DI2 set up with my Edge 830. I use the buttons on the shifters to take me straight to my navigation page, elevation profile, etc. It's really cool. It might be a less refined solution but their constant attempts to improve, excellent warranty support the whole ecosystem with their website, etc all help mitigate the bits of frustration when going through the clunky set up. When I was getting my Edge 830 I looked very hard at the Wahoo Roam. I will admit I was dissuaded from it by all the initial problems the first units had where reviewers and influencers were having the mounts break. Likewise many of the initial reviews mentioned the lack of onboard storage which meant that while map management was easily accomplished from the phone you'd have to deal with it more often since the entire computer only had like 3 GB of storage. Finally perhaps it was worked out with updates but many initial reviews mentioned certain features feeling very unrefined or just outright slow. I hope that was ironed out over time. For me this was 2019 and after the fiasco of all their trainer problems in 2018/early 2019, hearing about issues with review units gave me pause and so I gave my money to Garmin for another round. I will say that when I look to upgrade in a few years there are a few things I'd like to see to consider Wahoo next round. They need some user forums. I feel like their lack of responsiveness to requests like radar support are because there is no feedback loop between their users and the company. Second their use of partners for core functionality is a problem in my view. It leads to problems where some partners perform well, say Ride with GPS on turn by turn navigation while others, say Strava, are problematic. This wouldn't be a concern if you could just go to the Wahoo resource and use it instead but they do not have an equivalent of Garmin Connect flawed though it may be.

[@roxic1212]

The Gamin Varia Radar woks with Wahoo computers. Check out GP Lama’s video.

[@MrSnoopydupy]

Nice to see video about gps computers. I am still on old cycling computer(gps is sc-fi on my bicycle...), so I can learn something new from this video.

[@DiegoGomez-wu4qs]

Really enjoyed the video and honest opinion about both. I've used Garmin in the past but lately have switched to Wahoo for cycle computers (also use the KICKR, TICKR, CLIMB) but Garmin Forerunner for triathlon so can see the good/bad on both sides. As constructive criticism, please mind the spelling on the text overlays. Even the video's sponsor Competitive Cyclist was wrongly spelled! Takes away from what is an otherwise pretty cool video.

[@jdyches37]

@TheVeganCyclist - are you announcing the winner? if so, when?

[@AndreyPerepelitsa]

Excited to sell my bolt and upgrade to roam. Thanks for super comprehensive video.

[@raffica26]

They are sooo complicated I may end up choosing NONE. This Segments thing basically s.cks on Strava anyway. On most rides they have been created (by various people?) in such an unstructured and overlapping way that there is no point selecting and competing them. One is from Bush3 until Traffic light 5 and the next one is between Bush 4 and Traffic light 4. What is the point in any SW / navigation device selecting them all or randomly?

[@bimmer3twenty5]

Love the fact you gave away the one you didn't like! 🤣🤣🤣

[@db8458]

The Garmin navigation screen change and having to "go back" is definitely super annoying, hence why i don't even use navigation almost ever. Same problem with Edge 1030. Also, the newer Garmin touchscreen sucks, it has like a two-second lag, they're gonna have to improve this. Aside from that, it's still a pretty good device.

[@fendermon]

I'm totally going to learn how to use all the features on these, or learn how to knit a sweater. I can't decide which. A sweater would keep me warm though. I am a fan of good maps. I would pick Garmin due to that. And, if my phone died I would still have navigation.

[@mattd2129]

Hi dude thanks for the Vid. Do you know if the multiple segment confusion that you highlighted at about 7:20 has been fixed in any updates? Wahoo seems good for segment discovery but if gets confused its something of a bummer. Cheers

[@pedrobob4141]

Been using Garmin since 2004. They promise a lot of functions but in use are very frustrating - dropped sensors, syncing problems. I eliminated dropped HRM by getting the Wahoo Tickr. DC Rainmaker sums it up that they seem to prioritise functions over stability. But without stability the raft of functions aren’t much use. I had accepted this but these days expectations are that tech works with perhaps the odd glitch. With Garmin it glitches every time I ride. It is frustrating and this latest major outage is the final straw for me. Goodbye Garmin, time to get the Roam I think. Thanks for the video.

[@ukrainiannyc2245]

Wahoo Roam was my first cycling computer ever and I really needed it to do ONLY 2 things: 1) give me turn-by-turn directions for Strava routes and 2) Show me elevation profiles of the hills I'm climbing as I'm climbing them. It works.. Sort of. Turn arrows will often point at the wrong direction about 20-30% of the time. You really have to watch the chevrons or you will often make the wrong turn. Climb page with the elevation map display works well 90% of the time.... until it doesn't. I just noticed today that hill profiles are sometimes reversed and show descent as I'm climbing a 12% grade and ascent as I'm bombing down at 40 mph. It is incredibly frustrating and Wahoo support hasn't given me any indication that these are bugs that are being worked on. I'm thinking about trying Garmin 830 or 1030+ just because I hope it can at the bare minimum get those two things right. I mean how hard could that be in 2020?

[@bruce6rt]

UkrainianNYC Hey mate have you sorted this out?

[@ukrainiannyc2245]

@@bruce6rt Yes. I returned Roam and Got Garmin 830. After I worked out all the configuration kinks it's been working flawlessly for me. In terms of actual navigation Garmin vs Wahoo is like modern smart phone vs 1990s Palm Pilots :)

[@GerardvanReekum]

I wasn't patient enough to check, but did you address the battery issue of the Garmin? I won't succeed to drain my Wahoo Elemnt Bolt even after sixteen hours, and the Garmin lives for how long? Amazing how many cut-off Strava posts I read that say "my Garmin lost power". But who cares, if you can't read or operate the screen anyway?

[@coolanair00]

I have the Garmin 530, it's a little bit of a learning curve but worth it, Great battery life, navigation is not confusing as wahoo, tells you street ahead, and many more great features. Wahoo bolt is very user friendly but navigation was very confusing, doesn't tell you the st ahead. I returned it the next day

[@LPisg]

My wife has the edge 530 I use the roam... The times we had to wait before we start because the route didn't load on the 530...or the times we had to stop because the 530 glitched out again or had some other technical issue... It's so maddening... The roam just works,its that easy. I'm really happy I went for the roam.

[@keesvermeer367]

After having had multiple Garmin devices, switched to a Bolt three years ago, and now some months ago to the Roam. Great devices, so much easier to use! One feature that I do like about the new Garmin devices is Climb Pro, with this you see the complete lay-out of a climb when you are riding it. Gradients upcoming, distance to finish, etc. Really hope Wahoo incorporates this as well. But this really is the only plus I could find for Garmin, I still feel Wahoo is ahead in just plain user friendliness. Although Garmin has been playing catch-up, and the difference is smaller since the x30 series. Great review, completely agree with everything you said.

[@biglampar556]

i found Climbpro not working as expected.......

[@BlackWaterCyclist]

This is very interesting, I may have to try a Wahoo soon. I've always had a Garmin since 2008 so may need to try it since the Wahoo can now use the Garmin Radars.

[@FPL_Drago]

Once you go to Wahoo you will not go back to Garmin...

[@BlackWaterCyclist]

@@FPL_Drago thanks man, I'll definitely be on the lookout. Maybe I'll do a video as well but since I have a Garmin background then we'll get the other viewpoint.

[@FPL_Drago]

@@BlackWaterCyclist That would be good. Will balance out the VC view for others. It's a difficult video to make as as generally i think most would feel more strongly for one over the other. I mean, you may get a Wahoo and hate it... but I doubt it :)

[@janpeterlassen7791]

I am using an Edge 1000 for a few years now and I share your thoughts on the glossy screen: it is really annoying, especially on the map screen. I was considering moving to a newer unit like the 830 because of the option to mount the additional battery underneath the computer mount. However, if you use an outfront mount that places the unit (directly) in front of and in line with the stem, it is very difficult to press the start/stop and lap buttons! The Wahoo units have the buttons on the top (as does the Edge 1000).

[@vanessar4031]

Ive had a Garmin 520 for a few years and is the only computer I've had. The biggest problem I've had with it is battery life. You can't run the navigation with the map screen for more than 4ish hours and then it dies. Ive wanted to change to Wahoo for a while but the incident detection feature is what is keeping me with Garmin

[@ET-Rex]

FYI, you can disable the Quickturn screen that comes up on the Garman if you want

[@karoliskudrevicius6971]

That was awesome review! I have lost my Garmin 520 which was sole destroying but after seeing this video I am definitely convinced about purchasing the wahoo! Thanks brooo 🤙🏼

[@mpick9404]

Now that's what I call a review👏👏👏 superbly informative. Great job 👌

[@Jarek.]

Hint: there is a way to change Garmin to display only Text Guide, not whole page Map. Hint 2: when you star your segments in Garmin, they appear automatically (assuming you prepare a route in Strava) Hint 3: you can configure your custom Workout page in Garmin with all fields you need. Final word: I would take all you're talking as granted if I hand't have Wahoo for a week and I've sent it back as it was lacking so much functionality... Wahoo is having so many good sides but overall it was so frustrating :-) Wahoo is just cycling computer with elements of navigation.

[@bremnet1812]

I had the Wahoo Bolt for a few years. Never an issue with Wahoo. Like everything you said, it's very simple to use and user friendly. This spring, out of curiosity and that I prefer a touch screen I purchased the Garmin 830. Well here's my reader's digest experience thus far. I'm going back to Wahoo. Garmin is like 10 years behind is terms of setting this thing up. It took hours to do that and finalize the setup of the 830. I had to replace the first unit as it wouldn't sync correctly. The new one constantly drops out or freezes. You don't know how many times the 830 almost found itself in a middle of a farmer's field. I've never experienced any of that with Wahoo. If you're looking to buy a bike computer head, I strongly recommend you purchase the Wahoo. Why? Because Wahoo simple just works.

[@jean-paulchaudron3104]

You keep saying Garmin 530...but in the title it says 830 and checking the specs...it has to be the 830 right? The 530 does not have a touchscreen. Good and honest review though. Not like those paid channels. Thanks

[@mitchellsteindler]

Biggest downside with wahoo, for me, is elevation accuracy. I've had mtb rides where it records almost 4k ft of elevation gain when the true value is less than 1k. The more quickly undulating the terrain, the worse it is. Big climbs like in NC are not as much of a problem, but still overestimates.

[@nils0332]

that`s definitely not normal, maybe consider hitting up the support :)

[@johnsherwood3649]

I experience this in the woods too. I think it’s pulling elevation data from your phone which at most mtb trails cell service is spotty so it just fills in gaps but at the expense of accuracy. Never have issues on the road though.

[@mitchellsteindler]

@@nils0332 eh I've seen it on other's wahoos as well. Maybe still not normal, but yeha

[@mitchellsteindler]

@@johnsherwood3649 I stopped using the wahoo for mtb because of this. Just running strava on my phone is more accurate.

[@janpeterlassen7791]

@@johnsherwood3649 The Wahoo Bolt and Roam both have barometric altimeters. Hence, pulling altitude from the GPS should not be an issue.

[@whyFINAL]

damn you are one month later duuuuude :-D i was choosing roam vs 530/830. To my birthday i got Roam and im more than happy....everything working on 100% and it is damn easy and with crystal clear display! Ty for your review anyway :-D

[@kris.monroe]

Great conversation about these! Love the Roam.

[@JohnSmith-qn6wq]

I recently purchased a Garmin Edge 830 - first purchase of a Garmin product. My display seems blur, in particular the the large text/characters in the main menu with white background. Annoying, a bit uncomfortable but not dramatic. I don't know if this is a defect or if I am used to better screen in general (i.e. iPhone). Are you experiencing the same?

[@dvdp4513]

Superb video! Great comparision. Wahoo is the winner in the end!

[@jruizdlsantos]

Just what I was looking for! Perfect review point by point.

[@ronniedee12]

I have an 830, it is a little bigger but Navigation lines are still thin. Navigation has never been a strong suit for Garmin. I am not familiar with Wahoo’s app where data can be analyzed, but I like Garmin Connect, because I can analyze my rides in significant detail. The 830 also works decent in the rain. I have had some issues swiping but not really. My biggest beef is the Strava Segments. If you have a segment starred in Strava, a virtual screen pops up. This is nice if you are shooting for a PR or KOM, but most days I am not. What would be sweet is if a mile away from segment, you were given an option or maybe having a screen dedicated to segments. This would be nice for those long segments. Where you could go to the screen and see how your doing. That way your not stuck on a screen that shows no HR power cadence etc. once you opt out you no longer know how you rank with your PR’s. I don’t like having to choose either or. I want both.

[@RestlessGambler14]

My Wahoo Bolt purchased in 2017 is still running fine with no issue. I ride with people that have Garmin 500 - 1030 and they always seems to have battery or map issue. Got curious and bought a Omata only to go back to my Wahoo.

[@yrureadingthisname]

To me the user interface of the Garmin just looks so much better than the Wahoo. The maps on the Garmin look like real Maps that I’m used to using in google. The wahoo maps look like they came out of a Pokémon game boy game. Really clunky looking. For this reason, faster processing and loading times, better battery life, and having a touchscreen it’s the Garmin 830 for me hands down.

[@davidehrlich5140]

A couple issues with the review. First, the number of the data fields on the Garmin screens can be directly changed. When you go into activity profile, pick a screen and select data and layout. The first choice is to choose the number of fields and layout. Second, I'm not sure what he's doing with the Strava segments but I never did anything specific. I just star a segment on Strava. I ride a route that contains a segment and the Garmin automatically displays the segment when I get to that part of the route. I don't have to load a route. The Garmin knows when I'm approaching a starred segment.

[@JohnTye]

I really want the Garmin to be better cause I have a ton of Garmin stuff but honestly, my 2 biggest issues are the touch screen messing up when wet or sweat on and I CAN'T SEE THE SCREEN, because of the glare. Make's me wish I'd bought a wahoo but, I'd have to replace a lot of mounts at this point. UGH... I thought it was a pretty fair review. Nice job.

[@driesmoortgat]

I am a only a new cyclist and might not continue riding (let's hope not). I don't really want to be spending heaps before i am sure i Wilk stay cycling. Does any of you knew if there is some sort of phone app that does work as a gps maybe has some of the functions the gps have? Doesnt have to be free.

[@rocketfish43]

Great review. I think more than most other reviews you nailed all the important differences. I want to love the Garmin but have been leaning towards the Roam. Screen reflections are a big worry on the Garmin and the simplicity of the roam speaks to me. Thanks

[@williamvandenabeele5387]

It's true that the garmin software is pretty wierd to understand (I have the 830), even thought after a week I could easily navigate through the system and adjust the pages when I wanted to. I think wahoo has a couple of very handy details, like adjusting the data pages, but if you haven't got those extra's, just as me, you don't miss/ need them

[@dmarkford]

After watching this video, I am starting to seriously consider picking up a Whaoo unit from Comptetive Cyclist. Your video was very entertaining as always, I liked seeing the live side by side comparison.

[@luissimoes8768]

This week I'm going to buy a roam. Thanks for clearing my doubts. Just in time. Cool

[@panzerveps]

I'm one month into a Roam, and I'm not looking back. Loving it!

[@jaked8971]

I spent hours trying to decide between these 2 comps a few months ago. Got the roam in the end and definitely dont regret it.