Cycling computer debates have gotten tribal with brand loyalists arguing endlessly. As someone who’s owned devices from all three major brands, I learned everything there is to know about the actual differences that matter. Today, I will share it all with you.
That’s what makes honest comparison endearing to us data-obsessed cyclists — the right computer depends on how you actually ride, not forum consensus.
The Current Lineups
Probably should have led with this section, honestly — knowing what’s actually available matters.
Garmin: Edge 1050 flagship ($699), Edge 840/540 mid-range ($399-449), Edge 130 Plus compact ($199)
Wahoo: ELEMNT ROAM v2 ($399), ELEMNT BOLT v2 ($279)
Hammerhead: Karoo 3 ($399)
Navigation Reality
But what about getting lost? In essence, Garmin leads here.
Garmin’s Popularity Routing uses data from millions of rides to suggest roads cyclists actually use. Real-time rerouting when you miss turns. ClimbPro shows remaining distance and gradient on climbs. Trailforks integration for mountain biking. The most complete package.
Wahoo works but requires planning routes beforehand on phone or computer. On-device creation is limited. Hammerhead’s Climber feature analyzes any ride for climb data — genuinely useful for exploration.
Training Features
I’m apparently in the camp that actually uses training metrics. Frustrated by devices that collect data but don’t help interpret it, I appreciate Garmin’s Training Status, Load, and Recovery Time estimates.
Wahoo focuses on executing workouts rather than analyzing them — which is fine if you use TrainingPeaks or similar for analysis. Hammerhead adds features through software updates impressively fast.
Display and Usability
Garmin 1050: Largest screen (3.5″), excellent in most conditions. Wahoo ROAM: Best sunlight visibility, smaller but crisp. Karoo 3: Smartphone-like responsiveness, slightly less readable in bright sun.
The Ecosystem Question
Garmin connects with watches, power meters, scales — full ecosystem if you’re invested. Wahoo integrates cleanly with third-party apps. Hammerhead runs Android so updates add features without new hardware.
Making the Call
Want maximum features and ecosystem? Garmin. Want simplicity and excellent visibility? Wahoo. Want smartphone-like software that keeps improving? Hammerhead. All three work reliably. None are bad choices. Pick based on what you value most, not what forums recommend.
