Garmin recently announced the release of the new Edge 530 and Edge 830 models, as well as new speed and cadence sensors (ANT+ and Bluetooth Smart). These new GPS cycling computers are the evolution of the older Edge 520 and Edge 820 models, which were benchmarks in their segment and launched in 2015 and 2016. Faced with increasingly strong competition, it was important for Garmin to maintain its leadership position. Key evolutions of these new models: they are faster, larger and have more functions... There are many new features!
Find below the differences between the new Edge 530 model and its predecessor, the Edge 520 :
- Twice as fast information processing thanks to a new processor (you will particularly appreciate this when starting the device and calculating routes).
- Screen enlarged by almost a centimeter (which makes data reading easier). It now reaches 2.6″ (compared to 2.3″ on older models).
- Improved battery, now offering 20 hours of autonomy (5 hours more than the old model).
- Create your routes directly on your device.
- Complete navigation for your region.
- Integrated Wi-Fi connection to facilitate data synchronization.
- Added the ClimbPro function, allowing you to know the details of each climb on your route: distance, elevation gain, altitude.
Mountain bike enthusiasts have not been forgotten as they will now see the Grit , Flow and Jump functions displayed directly on their GPS cycling computer and on their Garmin Connect account. What do these three functions correspond to?
Grit analyzes the difficulty level of a ride using GPS, elevation, and acceleration data.
Flow measures your efficiency on descents on trails, based on the fluidity of your ride (where you were fast and where you lost time).
Jump records all data related to your jumps (number, distance, and airtime).
Another great new feature for all mountain bike fans: the addition of Trailforks, the famous trail database, directly into the unit. Detailed maps with paths and trails from over 80 countries will now be at your disposal!
Also, the Forksight function will automatically display the distance and difficulty of the paths ahead, when you take a break during your ride.
Another significant technical aspect is that it is still possible to record up to 100 routes and 200 waypoints. Voice guidance is also available.
The Edge 530 doesn't just record information; it provides dynamic performance data that can help you push your limits. Discover how your body reacts to different environments with heat and altitude acclimatization data. You can adjust your performance expectations according to Garmin's recommendations!
A new smart feature is making its appearance: smart nutrition and hydration alerts. It was already possible to program alerts for eating or drinking. Now your Garmin will take into account different effort and environment measurements. Then it can calculate calories expended and alert you when it's time to hydrate or give you the number of calories to ingest. You can also record your consumption to have it as data in your Garmin Connect.
Also find out if your last training session was balanced in terms of endurance, moderate intensity efforts, and intense efforts. When paired with compatible sensors, the Edge 530 now displays your power curve and compares your efforts to previous weeks and months.
Both units are compatible with the additional Edge battery to double their autonomy. They are Bluetooth Smart compatible to receive heart rate, power, and cadence data. The addition of power curves will allow you to know your maximum efforts for different durations and periods.
Both models feature a PIN code locking system. If the bike is moved, you will receive a notification on your smartphone and the cycle computer will sound an alarm. Perfect for your coffee breaks!
All this adds to the functions already included in the Edge 520 and 820 versions: Strava Live Segments, LiveTrack and GroupTrack, VO2Max tracking when coupled with a power and heart rate sensor, full display of all your data (depending on your sensors). The interface has also been updated to make it more intuitive.
So, what are the advantages of getting an Edge 830 model when the 530 is already so complete?
- First, the Edge 830's touchscreen has been greatly improved compared to the 820. This will facilitate navigation through the interface.
- You can plan your routes using full addresses, compared to the 530 where navigation is point-to-point.
- Points of interest are saved in a database, making it easier to find restaurants/cafes/hotels and even must-see places on your routes.
In terms of value for money, the Garmin Edge 530 is a true benchmark. If touch navigation is important to you, then the Edge 830 will be your ideal companion on your next rides. Note that a major software update for the Edge 1030 has also been announced to optimize it with all the functions announced for its counterparts!
You can get the new Garmin Edge 530 and 830 in 3 different configurations:
The unit only:
In a bundle with sensors for speed, cadence, and a heart rate strap:
Or the MTB bundle including the unit itself plus different mounts, an Edge remote, and a protective case:
COMPATIBLE GARMIN EDGE 830 AND 530 DEVICES
All VARIA RADAR RTL 510, UT800 and VIRB models are compatible with the new EDGE 530 and EDGE 830.
Find below the differences between the Edge 130, Edge 530, Edge 830, Edge 1030 and Edge Explore models:
