For a full in-depth review for cyclists or runners this is the only place to go - period. Ray is simply the best reviewer of cycling and running gadgets.
One thing that irks me a little about my 530 is the way it panics and says "make a U turn" (even if that would be a dumb thing to do) when I go off course. I'm glad they've addressed that with some options.
@@georgesoto5436 cool thanks for responding! I also had my sight on 840 but currently 1040 is on sale which makes it almost the same price as an 840 so I ended up getting that. Hopefully I won’t regret it!
I'm really out on the whole solar charging. The gains are just so small (especially in places like the UK) and the use case so limited that I don't know how you justify the extra cost for a dimmer screen. Seems pointless to me.
The battery life is so long already that I just don't see the point personally. I think for me when it would start to benefit me is when the device gets to end of life and I'm nearly using the whole battery in a single ride like I currently am with my Edge 820, but at at that point I'd rather have had that extra $100 to put to a new device. I'm sure it is a good option for some but in my use case at least I can't justify it.
I have the Fenix solar and I agree it's not worth it on that. Not enough area and it's under sleeves etc. I can imagine that an out front bike computer could work. It's amazing how much power a solar roof panel can generate - so you don't need much here.
I own a garmin solar instinct 2 watch, in the UK the solar charging is pointless, on a two week family holiday to Mallorca I’ve never had to charge it. So based on that I would never buy a solar Garmin cycling computer.
The way you weaved in the like/subscribe into the commentary was genius :) Thanks for continuing to do such amazing tech reviews of these kinds of gadgets.
Have had the chance to test both as well and for me the 540 is a no go. A touchscreen is a must for me on a computer this size. Love the 840 though. Previously used the 1030 and always thought I‘d want the bigger screen. Definitely not needed.
Reading the comments here about how ineffective the solar charging is. I agree from my experience with a 955 solar, but I’ll add… this seems to be Garmin in nutshell. Their training algorithms are also just a shiny feature to get you excited and by the time you realize it’s pointless (or just wrong) it’s too late to return your device.
Recognized some of those Mallorca roads which I went riding a couple of times in the past. Beautiful place to hop on a bike and just enjoy the...hills... hahaha! Nice!
Did you notice any performance improvement in the UI? My main gripe with the 530 is how slow it can get with ConnectIQ apps - like loading Komoot routes.
It seems about the same, but then again I also didn't install any Connect IQ apps. I just use the native Komoot sync, since it's instant (and also works mid-ride now on the x40 series).
@@Dcrainmaker I have the 1040 and it's very laggy/inconsistent. Also very slow to find routes when you have a lot saved in Komoot (1,000+), and the absence of a qwerty keyboard doesn't help.
Thank you for the nice video. How did you do the configuration, which can be seen at 2:47. Because of you video, I now hold the 840 in my hands and try to optimize it to my needs. I would love to see such a dashboard - how can I manage it. Do you have a video for that?
amazing review as always! Will you be able to review the MTB function of edge 840? Wanted to know how effective or practical having Edge 840 for MTB riders. thanks!
Did they improve navigation re-routing after skipping or missing waypoints? It's the only thing that drives me crazy using my 830 - there is no configurable option to treat waypoints less strictly in order to allow more flexibility when you want to take another route or just shorten a ride a little bit. In most cases, it stubbornly forces you to get to the missed waypoint eventually.
It depends on what's considered a 'Waypoint'. Basically, if you just tap-tap-tap created a route in Strava/Garmin/Komoot/whatever, then in the new system it'll give you the overlay for Re-Join/etc and then just do it's own dance if you ignore it. Last night for example I was running a bit late to pickup the kids from a ride, so I ended up shortening it, by cutting off a giant 15KM loop (I then took about a 10KM route instead, sorta like the opposite side of a lollipop route), and it seemed mostly OK with it. It didn't try and get me to go the other way.
@@TheLazyGarden3r i didn’t found it cheaper (yet) but according to ray’s pricelist (this video) the 1040 is in pounds cheaper than 840 (solar). In euro/dollars it’s more expensive, but weirdly enough not in pounds; in that case i would pick the 1040 over the 840 solar. But i guess that’s UK only.
@@TheLazyGarden3r probably depends on the region - here in Germany, I can get the 1040 for around 490€, while the 840 isn't available for below MSRP at the moment, so 500€
840 Conventional Without Solar was my final choice. I charge my unit regularly and won't miss solar charging. For the extra money I got the accessory sensor package. Garmin Edge logic to me is weird but I want the DI2 integration on the computer. Best of both worlds, my Karoo 2 (better screen) and now the 840. Apps on the iphone during rides Cyclemeter, iCardio and Shimano E-Tube Ride (which shows dI2 data and is getting better). Measure to motivate! Keeps me focused. Did I really need the 840? Not really. I like the size as the 1040 was too big. I'm keeping the 840. Garmin is pricey but some things are worth the money like my Rally RS 200 Power Pedals. It's so much more rewarding knowing the numbers after each ride.
Lovely review and honest recommendation! I will stick with my 530 as long as I can as the new units got so pricy. But what shocked me is the new Interface for Garmin connect via Web (especially at the computer), creating routes is now soo annoying. Would love to see some of the new features ripple down to the 530/830 ☺️
@@VeloVios No way I will upgrade to a 540 until they implement something with which I can share a location from my phone to my cycling computer and then navigate to it. That's the only feature I need.
Still using the original 500. Have 4 of them I rotate between bikes. Does everything I need it to, including the power meters, with great battery life.
Great review, will be moving up from my 530 onto the 840 especially after yr observation on the 540 clunkiness. I’m wondering if Garmin at this stage held a little back on the 540’s s/w interface to push more people up to the 840, or maybe I’m thinking they’re smarter than they are. Either way, thanks again DC 💯
@@borasumer For the 840 in particular, buttons. Cycling ability, climb pro anywhere, climb explorer, USB-C, new UI. The new course demands and power guide features will be really beneficial for me as a racer as well so I can do additional course scouting especially for races where I haven't been before or have much time to recon. But, in the end, what matters to me may not matter for you.
I need to buy a cycling computer before the start of may. Do you think it would be better to simply buy the 830 which is cheaper and widely available, or hunt for the 840 and pay more. Most beneficial feature for me in the 840 would be the USB-C charging.
@@emmamariapaarson9671 Hard to say without knowing your needs. If you want a set it and forget it computer that just records your rides, there are plenty of options way cheaper than even the 830. I have and use the 530 currently and really enjoy it. The only difference with the 830 is the touch screen and other than setting it up and starting it, there isn't much need for using the touchscreen unless you're digging in to the more in-depth features. My daughter has a 130+ and it's a great computer for just basic use without navigation capabilities.
@@JMCyclingVideos I definitely need navigation, I've also heard that there's a difference between the 530 and 830 where the 530 doesn't automatically reroute if you go off route. I was going to buy the 830 as it was perfect for my needs, but now that the 840 is out, maybe I should get that. Because in a longer-term view, the 840 would be overall newer while in 4 years, the 830 would already be 8 yrs old. So I think I would need to replace the 830 sooner if I was to get that. Thought decision here...
I dunno. I just moved from Wahoo Bolt V1 and find this unit to be overly complicated and over engineered. I'll probably grow to like it. That said, the images of the Roam screen here look better than Garmin. Makes me really thinking hard about swapping for Roam V2.
@@NC01 thats cool and to each their own. Garmin has a lot more options and sometimes useless features but at least they are there. Not a wahoo hater just prefer Garmin
Good reviews. I find the heart stats in line with several other sources. Certainly close enough without a lab. You should know Vo2max doesn't normally change much once trained - even with increased load. ie. It's not at all in the same league as FTP as far as trainability. It will fluctuate more with weight than anything else.
Would love an 840 K2 Bolt 2 comparison now. Also still having GOS issues with my bolt 2 on tree-lined roads/ hills. Curious if you can do a test (which might require for you to drive to the Belgian Ardennes to find a real forest :p)
Great review …..happy with the 540 I bought but cannot find a way to show only the hours and minutes on the timer. In my view there is little to no need for the seconds and so when you use the 8 screen data display you cannot see the hours except for a very small number demarcating the hours that is hardly visible, and so over long marathon rides this is far from deal. Any advice ??
Great review, thank you! I've been wanting to get my first computer for almost a year now, finally was getting serious about ordering one in last few weeks. I was thinking about the 830, but glad i waited for the 840. Pretty pricey, but seems like it has a few new features that will be useful.
Since the 1040 costs around the same as the 840, it would be amazing having a direct comparison between the two models. I completely lost track: am I loosing something by choosing the 1040 over the 840?
@@EmmanuelNataf I got an 840 and when I saw it it was just a little bigger than my old 520+. I was wondering if I made a mistake not getting the 1040. So I put it back in the box and trying to make a decision...lol
Funny, I bought a 530 a year ago while waiting for the 840... now I see my usual supplier has the 1040 for the same price as the 840. Damn, I would love to have the buttons to change pages though, but then paying the 840 the same price as the 1040 seems like a rip-off 😂 Great review as always, Ray... been following your posts since the Forerunner 405 review and still enjoy your posts... oh boy, I'm getting old, that was 15 years ago!
Great in-depth review. But Ray just got my 840 none solar and see the auto brightness is very dark. Checked forums and a lot of people having same issue when compared to auto brightness on 530. So many people setting brightness manually. Almost like it’s defaulting to 10% brightness. Hoping a software fix in future .
my solar version is almost un-useable when wearing my darkest glasses (never even thought about it using my old 520+ btw - could see it easy peasy without light with light etc.). even if i manually set the brightness it is pretty hard to read in certain light...
Hey dc rain maker just wanted to say that I loved your content and I’m looking at swapping for wahoo element, bolt version 2 to possibly the Garman 840 as they have compatibility through the IQ store for dexcom, blood glucose monitoring as wahoo do not and was just wondering what your thoughts are on going from the boat the 2 to the 840 and whether and how it goes if you’re a heavy sweater. I’m just curious if you can review the Garman head unit data such as for certain rides on your computer. Thanks for your time
Ironically enough.. my Garmin 520 plus began refusing to sync to my phone today. I seriously wonder if Garmin has done something to connect app to push folks to new devices.
Lol. I ordered the 540 this morning. Watched this video then cancelled my 540 and ordered 840 instead. Non solar for both. Seems like solar is a gimmick with little value.
I had the edge 530, which I loved. One day the battery wouldn't charge. Unit was like new. Nobody replaced the battery or services this device. I tried to do it myself and completely broke the screen and ruined it. I was very disappointed. Now I'm forced to buy another bike computer. Not sure I want to spend the money, if the battery cannot be replaced once it stops working. I keep all my bike stuff like new even if it's 5 years old. Any suggestions would be greatly appreciated.
Great review, thank you! For someone who doesn't have a power meter would i find the upgrade from the 530 to 840 with it? I love all the training features you mentioned if it scales to my power output I'm not sure I'd get a lot out of it.
Does dual-band help acquire signal faster at the start of rides? That's always the most annoying thing for me. I don't notice GPS error mid-ride much at all, but riding around in circles waiting to find the satellites sucks.
can the touchscreen sensitivity be turned off and just use buttons? Tempted by the 840 for the extra memory, but having flashbacks of horrid touchscreens in the past (Etrex Touch) that have made me avoid. If I can turn it off and just use the buttons if I have touch issues, then that would relieve that fear.
hoped for a bigger screen... sadly, the trend like on mobiles to have no frame around the screen hasn't yet arrived to bike computers. ... instead, the housing got bigger, the screen not. same size, same resolution, same visibility... thanks for the excellent review as usual :)
I'd like to know if the touch screen has been improved. I'd assume it's the same as the 1040 now. The touch on the old 830 was not very good. Solar is such a gimmick! It's super hard to run out of battery on my 1040. I'm glad I did not go for the solar version. On my Fenix 7, I don't even notice the solar at all.
Question for any Garmin experts: I currently track my runs and bike rides using a Forerunner 945. I'm considering getting an Edge 840 cycling computer and wondering if Garmin's stats such as activity history, training status, training readiness, etc, will sync across both devices? For example, assuming both devices are synced up to Garmin connect, will I be able to see bike rides in the activity history on my Forerunner and vice versa? Will my training status be "accurate" on my devices or will I need to refer to Connect to get metrics that take activities from both devices into account?
Thanks again Ray for a great review. Did I miss it or did you mention battery life? Think we got dazzled by the Solar functionality. Not much use to me in Ireland. I currently have a Wahoo Bolt v2 that is a great little device but now have an Epix gen 2 and wondering if it worth the move.
Please do one thing: show me how to record a ride on the 840. Simple. I know how to turn it on but get confused from there. My old Garmin had a Start button, Stop, Reset. Please take me thru a simple ride from and back to my house.
If you purchase one of these units and Garmin Connect doesn't recognize it - just log out of Garmin Connect and then log back in. Your setup problems should be resolved by doing this (thank you, Garmin Support!).
Does this edge 840 now pair with the Apple Watch Series 7 to broadcast HR over Bluetooth ? Do I still have to buy a separate Garmin HR Strap just to see my Bluetooth on the data field in Garmin Edge or a Garmin watch forerunner or epix watch ?
@@marksekelsky yeah definitely don't upgrade. Of course I don't know you, but the majority of the time I'd imagine you're using it with perhaps time, distance, maybe a power/hrm to track/train. Occasional mapping when you're away from home. Decent battery life. Honestly, all of this is in the Edge 810 haha. I have an 830 and certainly see no reason to upgrade, regardless of what comes out new...until it breaks
@@extrospective I’m with you and you’re exactly right. I had an 820 and the only reason I got the 830 was brighter display and dramatically better battery life than my 820 (which barely stayed alive for a century). I really don’t care much about the rest of the stuff.
How do the navigation features compare with a handheld outdoor GPS such as the Garmin GPSMAP 67i - I am a mountain biker and have used an older GPSMAP device for many years and found it useful addition to my handlebars, but recently broke it. I am not sure if I would find the training and fitness features of an Edge series device useful, and I am considering replacing it with an updated GPSMAP device because it looks more robust and versatile. Are the current GPSMAP 67 series devices comparable to the Edge bike GPS devices ?
Dearest DV Rain Maker. I plan on spending a lot of time in Spain this summer (Miami based). Is it easy to get the Europe cycling maps on the garmin 840?
Very tempted to upgrade.. I am still on my 11 year old Edge 500 of which the battery has become very unpredictable. I don't use a powermeter/HR meter anymore (no more races/hard training but mostly casual riding, 200k a week or so). The shiny new 840 with the possiblity to even navigate to a address from the device itself looks great.. But might be more than I need. Anyone here would know a good (cheaper) alternative? Does not neccesarily have to be Garming
I don't see any benefit there for a bike headunit. OLED still tends to drain the battery faster, solar + OLED is way more difficult, the visibility in sunlight tends to be worse. I love the way my Forerunner 265 screen looks, but the higher resolution and better colours wouldn't really benefit you on the bike
Sad to not see a new screen, not worth an upgrade from an 830 unit. I'm on my 3rd screen (pavement drop/mtb crash) and have been baby-ing it (e.g. road riding only). Usb-c and software upgrades makes it a mediocre upgrade unless you are coming from a 5xx series device. The durability took a nose dive after the 810, DCRainmaker please can you start doing durability tests, people need to know!!!
Currently in my country I can get both the 840 and 1040 for the same price. Is there any reason to go for one or the other more at that point? You mentioned at the end that the only difference really is screen size and battery life. Future software updates?
For a full in-depth review for cyclists or runners this is the only place to go - period.
Ray is simply the best reviewer of cycling and running gadgets.
What I love the most about your reviews that you start with sections that are probably the most interesting, slowly unveiling the rest of the nuances.
Thanks!
One thing that irks me a little about my 530 is the way it panics and says "make a U turn" (even if that would be a dumb thing to do) when I go off course. I'm glad they've addressed that with some options.
Don´t understand, how you can talk so fast! 😄Great review, this is exactly what I needed before going for 840... Thanks!
I know this is a year old, but it’s so good that it helped me decide which Garmin Edge to get. Thanks for all the detailed information.
What did you decide on and are you happy with your decision?
@@arif09 840 non-solar and couldn’t be happier!
@@georgesoto5436 cool thanks for responding! I also had my sight on 840 but currently 1040 is on sale which makes it almost the same price as an 840 so I ended up getting that. Hopefully I won’t regret it!
Currently got an Edge 820 so been waiting for this. Ordered one off the back of this excellent review. Thanks a lot Ray.
I'm really out on the whole solar charging. The gains are just so small (especially in places like the UK) and the use case so limited that I don't know how you justify the extra cost for a dimmer screen. Seems pointless to me.
It depends where you train and race. The UK or points north, probably not much gain. The American SW or Kona… it’s a decent bump
The battery life is so long already that I just don't see the point personally. I think for me when it would start to benefit me is when the device gets to end of life and I'm nearly using the whole battery in a single ride like I currently am with my Edge 820, but at at that point I'd rather have had that extra $100 to put to a new device. I'm sure it is a good option for some but in my use case at least I can't justify it.
I have the Fenix solar and I agree it's not worth it on that. Not enough area and it's under sleeves etc.
I can imagine that an out front bike computer could work.
It's amazing how much power a solar roof panel can generate - so you don't need much here.
I have noticed with my instinct 2 Solar that it only has an advantage during the rate uk heatwave or if you are lucky sunny day
I own a garmin solar instinct 2 watch, in the UK the solar charging is pointless, on a two week family holiday to Mallorca I’ve never had to charge it. So based on that I would never buy a solar Garmin cycling computer.
Thank You! Very informative. I will stay with my 830.
At Last THE review is out… 👍🏻 Order placed here in the UK for the 840 Solar
The way you weaved in the like/subscribe into the commentary was genius :) Thanks for continuing to do such amazing tech reviews of these kinds of gadgets.
Thanks!
Have had the chance to test both as well and for me the 540 is a no go. A touchscreen is a must for me on a computer this size. Love the 840 though. Previously used the 1030 and always thought I‘d want the bigger screen. Definitely not needed.
Reading the comments here about how ineffective the solar charging is. I agree from my experience with a 955 solar, but I’ll add… this seems to be Garmin in nutshell. Their training algorithms are also just a shiny feature to get you excited and by the time you realize it’s pointless (or just wrong) it’s too late to return your device.
Recognized some of those Mallorca roads which I went riding a couple of times in the past. Beautiful place to hop on a bike and just enjoy the...hills... hahaha! Nice!
Nice the key with solar is that it won't lose battery.
7:14 _#7 - new buttons!_ I wish 1040 had these buttons as well. This would be the only thing making me switch to 1040+.... Cheers 👍👍👍
Good review. Now have to decide between the 840, 1040 and Karoo2 for my upgrade to a good bike computer from a non map type.. hmmmm
In Sweden 840 costs 550$, wasn't expecting that high price.
For an outdated product with a short lifespan....
Cruising along at 7 percent 😂
Hi Ray, reading the in depth review and wondering if climbpro 2.0 is coming to wearables?
Did you notice any performance improvement in the UI? My main gripe with the 530 is how slow it can get with ConnectIQ apps - like loading Komoot routes.
It seems about the same, but then again I also didn't install any Connect IQ apps. I just use the native Komoot sync, since it's instant (and also works mid-ride now on the x40 series).
@@Dcrainmaker I have the 1040 and it's very laggy/inconsistent. Also very slow to find routes when you have a lot saved in Komoot (1,000+), and the absence of a qwerty keyboard doesn't help.
Thank you for the nice video. How did you do the configuration, which can be seen at 2:47. Because of you video, I now hold the 840 in my hands and try to optimize it to my needs. I would love to see such a dashboard - how can I manage it. Do you have a video for that?
Nice t-short! Absolutly love it!
Just changed the battery on my 500, not quite ready to upgrade.
amazing review as always! Will you be able to review the MTB function of edge 840? Wanted to know how effective or practical having Edge 840 for MTB riders. thanks!
More love needed for the off roading community.
Did they improve navigation re-routing after skipping or missing waypoints? It's the only thing that drives me crazy using my 830 - there is no configurable option to treat waypoints less strictly in order to allow more flexibility when you want to take another route or just shorten a ride a little bit. In most cases, it stubbornly forces you to get to the missed waypoint eventually.
It depends on what's considered a 'Waypoint'. Basically, if you just tap-tap-tap created a route in Strava/Garmin/Komoot/whatever, then in the new system it'll give you the overlay for Re-Join/etc and then just do it's own dance if you ignore it. Last night for example I was running a bit late to pickup the kids from a ride, so I ended up shortening it, by cutting off a giant 15KM loop (I then took about a 10KM route instead, sorta like the opposite side of a lollipop route), and it seemed mostly OK with it. It didn't try and get me to go the other way.
Oh man - missing a waypoint in the 830 has screwed me over so many times. It's so bad. Hope it is better.
No it's terrible. Sends you out on trails that don't even exist while in Road mode…
Been waiting for this. Thanks for the review and all your hard work putting this together!
Given the fact that the 1040 is now available for less then the 840, i would go for the 1040
In pounds it’s cheaper indeed. Not euro or dollar. Weird… typo from ray?
@@TheLazyGarden3r i didn’t found it cheaper (yet) but according to ray’s pricelist (this video) the 1040 is in pounds cheaper than 840 (solar). In euro/dollars it’s more expensive, but weirdly enough not in pounds; in that case i would pick the 1040 over the 840 solar. But i guess that’s UK only.
@@TheLazyGarden3r probably depends on the region - here in Germany, I can get the 1040 for around 490€, while the 840 isn't available for below MSRP at the moment, so 500€
Yup, generally agree!
@@TheLazyGarden3r thats close......Take the 1040
840 Conventional Without Solar was my final choice. I charge my unit regularly and won't miss solar charging. For the extra money I got the accessory sensor package. Garmin Edge logic to me is weird but I want the DI2 integration on the computer. Best of both worlds, my Karoo 2 (better screen) and now the 840. Apps on the iphone during rides Cyclemeter, iCardio and Shimano E-Tube Ride (which shows dI2 data and is getting better). Measure to motivate! Keeps me focused. Did I really need the 840? Not really. I like the size as the 1040 was too big. I'm keeping the 840. Garmin is pricey but some things are worth the money like my Rally RS 200 Power Pedals. It's so much more rewarding knowing the numbers after each ride.
Lovely review and honest recommendation!
I will stick with my 530 as long as I can as the new units got so pricy.
But what shocked me is the new Interface for Garmin connect via Web (especially at the computer), creating routes is now soo annoying.
Would love to see some of the new features ripple down to the 530/830 ☺️
My 520 after 10 yrs is still chugging along on near daily use.
@@VeloVios No way I will upgrade to a 540 until they implement something with which I can share a location from my phone to my cycling computer and then navigate to it. That's the only feature I need.
Sounds like the “take me to” feature on the wahoo app.
@@handleless85 you don't want to type in the location on the 540 - but you are willing to do so on your phone?
Still using the original 500. Have 4 of them I rotate between bikes. Does everything I need it to, including the power meters, with great battery life.
Great review, will be moving up from my 530 onto the 840 especially after yr observation on the 540 clunkiness. I’m wondering if Garmin at this stage held a little back on the 540’s s/w interface to push more people up to the 840, or maybe I’m thinking they’re smarter than they are. Either way, thanks again DC 💯
Looks like a worthy upgrade, which is rare these days. Great in-depth review, as always.
What is worthy upgrade over 830?
@@borasumer For the 840 in particular, buttons. Cycling ability, climb pro anywhere, climb explorer, USB-C, new UI. The new course demands and power guide features will be really beneficial for me as a racer as well so I can do additional course scouting especially for races where I haven't been before or have much time to recon. But, in the end, what matters to me may not matter for you.
I need to buy a cycling computer before the start of may. Do you think it would be better to simply buy the 830 which is cheaper and widely available, or hunt for the 840 and pay more. Most beneficial feature for me in the 840 would be the USB-C charging.
@@emmamariapaarson9671 Hard to say without knowing your needs. If you want a set it and forget it computer that just records your rides, there are plenty of options way cheaper than even the 830. I have and use the 530 currently and really enjoy it. The only difference with the 830 is the touch screen and other than setting it up and starting it, there isn't much need for using the touchscreen unless you're digging in to the more in-depth features. My daughter has a 130+ and it's a great computer for just basic use without navigation capabilities.
@@JMCyclingVideos I definitely need navigation, I've also heard that there's a difference between the 530 and 830 where the 530 doesn't automatically reroute if you go off route. I was going to buy the 830 as it was perfect for my needs, but now that the 840 is out, maybe I should get that. Because in a longer-term view, the 840 would be overall newer while in 4 years, the 830 would already be 8 yrs old. So I think I would need to replace the 830 sooner if I was to get that. Thought decision here...
I see a new bike computer, I head over to this channel to check it out 😇. Great explanatory video once again!!
Exactly my thinking! 😅
Thanks Ray! 😉
Can you do a tour of your workbench behind you? Like an office tour? It fascinates me 🙃
that's a proper bar tape wrap right there. Spot on!!
Garmin keeps smashing it and the addition to Climb Pro free ride will really make people have a hard time picking something else
I dunno. I just moved from Wahoo Bolt V1 and find this unit to be overly complicated and over engineered. I'll probably grow to like it. That said, the images of the Roam screen here look better than Garmin. Makes me really thinking hard about swapping for Roam V2.
@@NC01 thats cool and to each their own. Garmin has a lot more options and sometimes useless features but at least they are there. Not a wahoo hater just prefer Garmin
Good reviews. I find the heart stats in line with several other sources. Certainly close enough without a lab. You should know Vo2max doesn't normally change much once trained - even with increased load. ie. It's not at all in the same league as FTP as far as trainability. It will fluctuate more with weight than anything else.
Would love an 840 K2 Bolt 2 comparison now.
Also still having GOS issues with my bolt 2 on tree-lined roads/ hills. Curious if you can do a test (which might require for you to drive to the Belgian Ardennes to find a real forest :p)
You’re not allowed to mention that, what with garmin x40 units having the same “super accurate” multi band gps system as wahoo v2 units and all.
Great review …..happy with the 540 I bought but cannot find a way to show only the hours and minutes on the timer. In my view there is little to no need for the seconds and so when you use the 8 screen data display you cannot see the hours except for a very small number demarcating the hours that is hardly visible, and so over long marathon rides this is far from deal. Any advice ??
Great review, thank you! I've been wanting to get my first computer for almost a year now, finally was getting serious about ordering one in last few weeks. I was thinking about the 830, but glad i waited for the 840. Pretty pricey, but seems like it has a few new features that will be useful.
Better UI and case size!! I would say it is super worth to spent this right money on 840
Since the 1040 costs around the same as the 840, it would be amazing having a direct comparison between the two models.
I completely lost track: am I loosing something by choosing the 1040 over the 840?
Some Buttons only
Some Buttons only
I'd pick the 840. The buttons are needed in an number of conditions (I own the 1040 and find the touchscreen slow).
@@EmmanuelNataf I got an 840 and when I saw it it was just a little bigger than my old 520+. I was wondering if I made a mistake not getting the 1040. So I put it back in the box and trying to make a decision...lol
@@osint6372 Came back from 2 weeks of bikepacking and racing and honestly the touchscreen isn't cutting it. Too slow.
14:20 Driving down Koppenberg? Brave!
Ah it was to show it does not recalculate...
I actually did go down it. Thrice. I regret my life choices immensely.
Funny, I bought a 530 a year ago while waiting for the 840... now I see my usual supplier has the 1040 for the same price as the 840. Damn, I would love to have the buttons to change pages though, but then paying the 840 the same price as the 1040 seems like a rip-off 😂
Great review as always, Ray... been following your posts since the Forerunner 405 review and still enjoy your posts... oh boy, I'm getting old, that was 15 years ago!
I was using 530 for quite long time. When I switch to 840. It is a whole new level of the bike computer for me.
@@poshenglin898 I can believe that! Now... 1040 or 840? Still undecided...
You can use the remote for quick changes of the screen. It is cheap and mounts to the STIs
@@nami1540 That's more stuff to buy, maintain, upgrade...
@@poshenglin898 did you tried Karoo2?
Great in-depth review. But Ray just got my 840 none solar and see the auto brightness is very dark. Checked forums and a lot of people having same issue when compared to auto brightness on 530. So many people setting brightness manually. Almost like it’s defaulting to 10% brightness. Hoping a software fix in future .
my solar version is almost un-useable when wearing my darkest glasses (never even thought about it using my old 520+ btw - could see it easy peasy without light with light etc.). even if i manually set the brightness it is pretty hard to read in certain light...
Hey dc rain maker just wanted to say that I loved your content and I’m looking at swapping for wahoo element, bolt version 2 to possibly the Garman 840 as they have compatibility through the IQ store for dexcom, blood glucose monitoring as wahoo do not and was just wondering what your thoughts are on going from the boat the 2 to the 840 and whether and how it goes if you’re a heavy sweater. I’m just curious if you can review the Garman head unit data such as for certain rides on your computer. Thanks for your time
Hi Ray, great review! thank you for all the effort 🙂
Ironically enough.. my Garmin 520 plus began refusing to sync to my phone today. I seriously wonder if Garmin has done something to connect app to push folks to new devices.
Welcome to Garmin programmed outdating cycle! Keep enjoying your Garmin products
Liked for getting to know through your vid about the new Garmins!
Lol. I ordered the 540 this morning. Watched this video then cancelled my 540 and ordered 840 instead.
Non solar for both. Seems like solar is a gimmick with little value.
I had the edge 530, which I loved. One day the battery wouldn't charge. Unit was like new. Nobody replaced the battery or services this device. I tried to do it myself and completely broke the screen and ruined it. I was very disappointed. Now I'm forced to buy another bike computer. Not sure I want to spend the money, if the battery cannot be replaced once it stops working. I keep all my bike stuff like new even if it's 5 years old. Any suggestions would be greatly appreciated.
Great review, thank you! For someone who doesn't have a power meter would i find the upgrade from the 530 to 840 with it? I love all the training features you mentioned if it scales to my power output I'm not sure I'd get a lot out of it.
Is that dim effect (because of the solar panel) also noticeable if you compare the 1040 with the 1040 solar?
As far as I know it is more visible on 1040 vs 1040 solar than on 840 models
Great review Ray
Does dual-band help acquire signal faster at the start of rides? That's always the most annoying thing for me. I don't notice GPS error mid-ride much at all, but riding around in circles waiting to find the satellites sucks.
In theory it should do
can the touchscreen sensitivity be turned off and just use buttons? Tempted by the 840 for the extra memory, but having flashbacks of horrid touchscreens in the past (Etrex Touch) that have made me avoid. If I can turn it off and just use the buttons if I have touch issues, then that would relieve that fear.
The touchscreens on the newer devices work way better than older devices.
Great reviews, a while ago you did a review on video screen recording on the Wahoo, can you do one for the 840? Thanks! 😊
I dont think ill update my 830 to 840 any soon. The new features are neat but not enough to make me spend a fortune on newer version of edge.
@dcrainmaker 840 or 1040 wich one you recomend? Or should I wait for next 1040 plus or next model? I have the 1030
Any chance you can make the font LARGER on the new Garmins…? 🙌🏼
hoped for a bigger screen... sadly, the trend like on mobiles to have no frame around the screen hasn't yet arrived to bike computers. ... instead, the housing got bigger, the screen not. same size, same resolution, same visibility...
thanks for the excellent review as usual :)
Because they use outdated hardware at premium price....
I'd like to know if the touch screen has been improved. I'd assume it's the same as the 1040 now. The touch on the old 830 was not very good.
Solar is such a gimmick! It's super hard to run out of battery on my 1040. I'm glad I did not go for the solar version. On my Fenix 7, I don't even notice the solar at all.
Marketing stuff there ..
Question for any Garmin experts: I currently track my runs and bike rides using a Forerunner 945. I'm considering getting an Edge 840 cycling computer and wondering if Garmin's stats such as activity history, training status, training readiness, etc, will sync across both devices? For example, assuming both devices are synced up to Garmin connect, will I be able to see bike rides in the activity history on my Forerunner and vice versa? Will my training status be "accurate" on my devices or will I need to refer to Connect to get metrics that take activities from both devices into account?
So it seems the sharks are not only hunting you in the waters of Florida but go after you on bikes....great shirt...and great video as always!
Thanks again Ray for a great review. Did I miss it or did you mention battery life? Think we got dazzled by the Solar functionality. Not much use to me in Ireland. I currently have a Wahoo Bolt v2 that is a great little device but now have an Epix gen 2 and wondering if it worth the move.
Thanks for such a great review Ray! Now debating whether I should go with the 1040 or the 840. What is your recommendation? I only do road biking
Please do one thing: show me how to record a ride on the 840. Simple. I know how to turn it on but get confused from there. My old Garmin had a Start button, Stop, Reset. Please take me thru a simple ride from and back to my house.
Thanks, Ray I love your video so much. Would you be able to talk about spectator messaging function? Would love to see how it works actually
Gotchya, a good video to do an explainer on!
Great review, do you think that the 1040 will have climb pro free as well?
Will you do a comparison between the 540 and Wahoo Bolt v2?
I finally bought a 830 a few months ago and out comes the 840 LOL
Great review.
Do all the x40 series have music controls? I thought the 1040 does. That is the only thing I really want.
840 does
how is the rerouting on the 840 and 540? I read that it wasn't so good on the 530
what is your choice that you ride with daily?
If you purchase one of these units and Garmin Connect doesn't recognize it - just log out of Garmin Connect and then log back in. Your setup problems should be resolved by doing this (thank you, Garmin Support!).
Does this edge 840 now pair with the Apple Watch Series 7 to broadcast HR over Bluetooth ? Do I still have to buy a separate Garmin HR Strap just to see my Bluetooth on the data field in Garmin Edge or a Garmin watch forerunner or epix watch ?
Nice review, have you connected the 840 with wahoo kickr or kickr core? Is there any issues, problems as 830 had?
Hasn't it gone up by £100 over the last RRP generation? It's got some pretty cool features. Think I'll wait until Karoo3
Garmin prices are just mad
So the question is, as an 830 owner, is the 840 worth the upgrade or do you hang in there for 4 more years until the 850?
absolutely not.
@@extrospective absolutely upgrade or absolutely hang on? (I think hang on)
Definitely wait for the 850. Hard pass on this one.
@@marksekelsky yeah definitely don't upgrade. Of course I don't know you, but the majority of the time I'd imagine you're using it with perhaps time, distance, maybe a power/hrm to track/train. Occasional mapping when you're away from home. Decent battery life. Honestly, all of this is in the Edge 810 haha. I have an 830 and certainly see no reason to upgrade, regardless of what comes out new...until it breaks
@@extrospective I’m with you and you’re exactly right. I had an 820 and the only reason I got the 830 was brighter display and dramatically better battery life than my 820 (which barely stayed alive for a century). I really don’t care much about the rest of the stuff.
Bravo Ray… How would you say the 840’s new features work for mountain biking?
Does the 840 / 540 still drop the entire sensor stack twice a ride like my 830 has been doing for 4 years?
Not that I've seen.
Can you lock screen during the ride on 840 and use just buttons, like on 540?
lock screen was available on 830 and is available on 1040 so not sure why they'd remove it. On touch screen units you can still swipe left/rigth
How do the navigation features compare with a handheld outdoor GPS such as the Garmin GPSMAP 67i - I am a mountain biker and have used an older GPSMAP device for many years and found it useful addition to my handlebars, but recently broke it. I am not sure if I would find the training and fitness features of an Edge series device useful, and I am considering replacing it with an updated GPSMAP device because it looks more robust and versatile. Are the current GPSMAP 67 series devices comparable to the Edge bike GPS devices ?
I would have preferred to adopt smaller dimensions for the non-solar one, or a larger screen..
Prices imho are too high. If those were 150€ less id be allover either of the two.
Dearest DV Rain Maker. I plan on spending a lot of time in Spain this summer (Miami based). Is it easy to get the Europe cycling maps on the garmin 840?
any input on live segments?
Very tempted to upgrade.. I am still on my 11 year old Edge 500 of which the battery has become very unpredictable. I don't use a powermeter/HR meter anymore (no more races/hard training but mostly casual riding, 200k a week or so). The shiny new 840 with the possiblity to even navigate to a address from the device itself looks great.. But might be more than I need. Anyone here would know a good (cheaper) alternative? Does not neccesarily have to be Garming
How long until we get an OLED one? Looks great on the watches and this would be a great use-case.
I don't see any benefit there for a bike headunit. OLED still tends to drain the battery faster, solar + OLED is way more difficult, the visibility in sunlight tends to be worse. I love the way my Forerunner 265 screen looks, but the higher resolution and better colours wouldn't really benefit you on the bike
На сколько лучше смотреть навигацию и карты на 1040, чем на 840? Есть ли разница для просмотра карт?
Can the Garmin Edge 840 be used while its charging from its USB port? For while out on the bike, and it needs charging via a power bank.
Thanks!
This is the 3rd time that Garmin changes my 530, due to a very wrong climbing measurement, what is going on? Is this better in the *40 series?
That hallelujah song killed me. xDD
FINALLY! It's Type-C!
Sad to not see a new screen, not worth an upgrade from an 830 unit. I'm on my 3rd screen (pavement drop/mtb crash) and have been baby-ing it (e.g. road riding only). Usb-c and software upgrades makes it a mediocre upgrade unless you are coming from a 5xx series device. The durability took a nose dive after the 810, DCRainmaker please can you start doing durability tests, people need to know!!!
Thanks!
Wow, thank you very much - much appreciated!!!
Do you plan to do a detailed comparison to the Karoo 2?
Is it good device for me if I do not have a power meter?
You think the Free ride climb pro will come to the Garmin watches?
Not soon, but I suspect long term.
Currently in my country I can get both the 840 and 1040 for the same price. Is there any reason to go for one or the other more at that point? You mentioned at the end that the only difference really is screen size and battery life. Future software updates?