So here we are again, drawn like moth's to the flame of shiny new Garmin tech. Garmin just released two new compact cycling computers that have some of us seriously considering whether we need the latest and greatest. The Edge 550 and Edge 850 just launched and after spending some time researching specs and capabilities, here's what makes these two models tick and which one might be worth your hard-earned cash.
First Impressions: What's New and Shiny
Both the Edge 550 and 850 use Garmin's brightest 2.7" color displays, with improved responsiveness and smoother map redraws - a significant upgrade from the smaller screens on their predecessors, the Edge 540 and 840. The displays are designed to be readable even in direct sunlight ā something every cyclist can appreciate when you're squinting at your screen on a hot summer ride.
The main story here is that Garmin trickled down many of the best features from the flagship Edge 1050 and squeezed them into more compact, more affordable packages. You're getting premium features without the premium price tag or the massive size of the 1050.
The Core Differences: Touch vs. Buttons
Here's where things get interesting, and where you'll need to make your first major decision. The Edge 550 is a button-only interface, while the Edge 850 adds a responsive touchscreen to the mix. This single difference drives a $100 price gap between the models.
Edge 550 ($499): The Purist's Choice
The Edge 550 sticks with traditional button navigation, which honestly has its merits. Buttons work with gloves, they don't accidentally register touches when you're bouncing down a rough trail, and they're generally more reliable in wet conditions. If you're someone who prefers the tactile feedback of physical controls, the 550 might be your jam.
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Edge 850 ($599): The Modern Approach
The Edge 850's touchscreen brings it closer to smartphone-like operation. You can pan and zoom maps with your fingers, swipe between data screens, and even create courses point-by-point using the touchscreen. Plus, it includes a built-in speaker (more on that later) that the 550 lacks.
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Shared Features: What Both Models Bring to the Table
Both units share an impressive feature set that represents a significant leap forward from previous generations:
Display Excellence: That 2.7-inch screen isn't just bigger ā it's also brighter and more responsive than previous Edge models. The colors are vivid, and the improved processing power means smoother map navigation.
Extended Battery Life: Up to 36 hours in battery saver mode, or about 12 hours with all features running. This is a substantial improvement that should get you through even the longest adventure rides.
Enhanced Mountain Bike Features: Both models include dedicated enduro and downhill profiles with 5Hz GPS recording for more precise tracking of your lines, plus timing gates for lap splits. This is a big win for mountain bikers who felt left out by previous generations.
Smart Training Features: Adaptive training plans, smart nutrition alerts, and expanded GroupRide features that let you compare speed, cadence, and power with riding buddies in real-time.
Improved Navigation: Ride-specific routing for road, gravel, or mountain biking, plus surface type alerts to warn you about upcoming unpaved sections.
The Edge 850's Exclusive Features
The extra $100 for the Edge 850 gets you some compelling additions:
Built-in Speaker: Just like the Edge 1050, the 850 includes a speaker that provides an on-device bike bell, workout prompts, and navigation cues. Having used the bell feature on other Garmin models, I can tell you it's surprisingly effective at alerting pedestrians and other cyclists.
Touchscreen Navigation: The responsive touchscreen makes map interaction much more intuitive. You can zoom, pan, and interact with the display in ways that feel natural if you're used to smartphones.
Garmin Pay: Contactless payments mean you can buy that mid-ride coffee or energy bar without digging for your wallet.
Road Hazard Reporting: While this feature is rolling out to other Edge models, having it available from day one with the touchscreen interface makes it much easier to use.
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Battery Life: The Trade-off
Here's where things get a bit complicated. Both models offer excellent battery life compared to many competitors, but there's a significant step down from the solar-equipped models they're replacing. The 36-hour battery saver mode and 12-hour full-feature operation is impressive, but if you're coming from an Edge 840 Solar that could run for days, this might feel like a downgrade.
The brighter, more responsive displays and additional processing power come at a cost. If maximum battery life is your priority, you might want to stick with the solar models or consider whether these new features are worth the trade-off.
Garmin Edge 550 vs 850: Head-to-Head Comparison
| Feature | Edge 550 | Edge 850 |
|---|---|---|
| Display | 2.7" color, button-controlled | 2.7" color touchscreen |
| Price | $499.99 | $599.99 |
| Battery Life | Up to 36 hours (battery saver) | Up to 36 hours (battery saver) |
| Speaker | No | Yes (bike bell, prompts) |
| Garmin Pay | No | Yes |
| Touchscreen | No | Yes |
| GPS Recording | 1Hz standard, 5Hz for MTB | 1Hz standard, 5Hz for MTB |
| Maps | Preloaded worldwide | Preloaded worldwide |
| Smart Features | Training plans, GroupRide | Training plans, GroupRide, hazard reporting |
| Weight | 110g | 113g |
| Controls | Buttons only | Buttons + touchscreen |
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Who Should Buy Which Model?
The Edge 550 Is Perfect If:
- You prefer button controls and don't mind navigating menus the traditional way
- You want the latest Garmin features without paying for touchscreen functionality
- You ride in conditions where buttons are more reliable (wet weather, mountain biking with gloves)
- You're looking for the most affordable entry into Garmin's newest generation
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The Edge 850 Makes Sense If:
- You want the most smartphone-like experience in a compact form factor
- The built-in speaker and bike bell appeal to you
- You frequently use navigation and appreciate being able to interact with maps via touch
- Garmin Pay is a feature you'll actually use
- You don't mind spending an extra $100 for convenience features
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The Reality Check: Do You Need Either?
Here's the honest truth: if you've got a working Edge 540, 840, or even an older model that meets your needs, you probably don't need to upgrade. These new models are impressive, but they're evolutionary rather than revolutionary improvements.
However, if you're in the market for a new head unit or you simply love having the latest and greatest, both the 550 and 850 represent excellent value in Garmin's lineup. They offer many of the premium features from the $700 Edge 1050 in more affordable, compact packages.
The Edge 550 at $499 is particularly compelling if you don't need touchscreen, hazard ahead alerts, or built in bell functionality. You're getting cutting-edge GPS technology, improved battery life, enhanced mountain bike features, and that gorgeous bright display for a reasonable price.
The Edge 850 at $599 feels like the sweet spot for most riders who want modern convenience features. The touchscreen makes navigation significantly easier, and the built-in speaker adds functionality that you may use more than you expect.
Final Thoughts
Both the Edge 550 and 850 represent Garmin's continued evolution in making their premium features more accessible. They're not trying to replace the flagship Edge 1050. Instead, they're bringing many of its best features to riders who want something more compact and affordable.
The choice between them largely comes down to whether you value touchscreen convenience and the additional features that come with the 850. For most riders, I'd lean toward the Edge 850 if your budget allows. The touchscreen interaction, built-in speaker, and Garmin Pay make it feel more like a modern device, and the $100 premium seems reasonable for what you get.
But if you're a traditionalist who prefers buttons, rides in challenging conditions regularly, or simply wants to save some money, the Edge 550 offers nearly identical core functionality in a more affordable package.
Either way, you're getting what appears to be Garmin's most refined compact cycling computer to date. Just don't blame me when you find yourself standing in line for the next generation in a couple of years ā that's just the nature of being a bike tech enthusiast.
