Heads up – Massive Sports Tech Holiday Deals List is Live!!! The Garmin Fenix 8 is $250 off (even the Fenix 8 Pro is $100 off!), the Apple Watch Ultra 3 is on sale, the Garmin inReach Mini 2 is $249, the GoPro Hero 13 Black, DJI NEO, and a ton of other brands/deals, including Wahoo, Oura, Whoop, Polar, Samsung, Google, and more than 100 sports tech deals here!
It’s that time of the year again, where we see a slate of sports tech deals out there. This typically happens each May, just ahead of Memorial Day in the US, and then carries through to Father’s Day. However, most of the 20% off deals with REI & Backcountry are only valid through Monday (May 31st).
As usual, I wouldn’t overthink any of these deals as a sign of impending newness. For example, virtually every year Garmin has been selling the Fenix series, they’ve put the Fenix series on sale ahead of Father’s Day. And every year Garmin has sold Forerunner watches, we see those usually on sale in the May timeframe too.
I’ve consolidated everything below. I don’t expect the indoor trainer deals (namely the Saris H3 and Elite Sterzo Smart ones) to last long. And the Wahoo Speedplay one is pretty big too – the first time we’ve ever seen that.
If you’re looking for hard to get trainers and other indoor cycling gear, use the Stock Alerting tool, to get notified the second a new trainer is in stock for purchase!
Finally, both REI & Backcountry are running 20% off sales right now on much of their gear. While a lot of sports tech doesn’t qualify, there are tons of deals to be had elsewhere (like apparel, shoes, etc…).
Most links here help support the site – which I greatly appreciate! These four DC Rainmaker partner sites here are also running deals on sports gear to supplement your sport tech addiction- Backcountry.com, CompetitiveCyclist.com, REI.com, and Wiggle.co.uk:
As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases. It doesn’t cost you anything extra, but your purchases help support this website a lot. Even more, if you use Backcountry.com or Competitive Cyclist with coupon code DCRAINMAKER, first time users save 15% on applicable products!
Watches & Wearables:
This covers anything you can wear that’s watch-like or activity band-like, including sensors. Generally speaking, you’ll mostly find deals here that are on things I’ve written about in the past. So you won’t find a deal on some random non-sports tech watch here, or on socks. Unless the socks have some crazy sensor or something in them.
We did see lower just back in July, at $199. So I'd probably hold out a bit more here. Assuming that happens, you can't beat this watch at this price point (heck,not even at $226 either).
Perhaps this deal will get better, but right now at $20 off...nah. Given the price of the Garmin Epix Pro has flirted into the $429 range a bit over the past few days (and is a vastly better watch), this needs to drop down closer to $299 to be worth picking up during Black Friday pricing.
These are the just-released AirPod Pro 3, with optical heart rate sensors in them. These are my daily-driver headphones these days, and even more notably, the heart rate accuracy is incredibly good in these.
This is the first major sale for the Apple Watch SE 3, which came out just 2 months ago. It's essentially Apple's 'budget' offering, yet it still has all the same software features as a higher-end Apple Watch Series 11, as long as the hardware permits.
This is the first time we've seen the Apple Watch Ultra 3 on sale, and given it's $100 off, that tends to be the typical sale price for the holidays/Black Friday for the current/just-released version.
This is a great price for this watch. Note though that technically speaking, this is a price reduction (took effect Nov 14th following the launch of the Pace 4). Most companies would first call it a sale, then make that sale price the new price as a price reduction. But COROS often beats to a different drum. Kudos on being upfront about the reduction though!
This is a great price for this watch. Note though that technically speaking, this is a price reduction (took effect Nov 14th following the launch of the Pace 4). Most companies would first call it a sale, then make that sale price the new price as a price reduction. But COROS often beats to a different drum. Kudos on being upfront about the reduction though!
These is the new model just released this past summer with stronger anti-scratch resistance (I even dragged it down a textured concrete pool desk, lens-down, to show this).
⚡ This is (by far) the lowest price we've seen on this watch to date. This is their first full smartwatch focused on kids activity tracking and gamification.
⚡ This is the go-to sale price for the Fitbit Charge 6. It happens often, but it still doesn't take away from the fast that it's argueably the best bang for your buck fitness tracker out there.
If you're looking for a simple and inexpensive activity tracker, you won't go wrong with a Fitbit (or this Inspire 3). It's got literally all the same software features in the Fitbit app as a higher-end Google Pixel Watch or other Fitbit device, except...just tiny.
⚡ This is Garmin's newest kids-focused and LTE connected smart watch. Our three daughters have been using it for about two months now, after using the original Bounce 1 for years. This is a *massive* upgrade over the Bounce 1, both in features/hardware, but frankly also battery life. My review should be up next week, but if you've got any questions drop them in the comments below.
This is the activity tracker that both of our oldest daughters have used for years (age 8 & 9), as well as most of their friends now. They/we all like it. Check out my full in-depth review for all my thoughts. That said, the new Bounce 2 came out two months ago, and while my review isn't out yet, it's a far better product. But, quite a bit more too. The TLDR on that review will be that it's the best kids smartwatch/tracker to date (for both parents and kids), but obviously will cost you $100 more.
This is Garmin's premier line of diving watches, which is based on the Fenix 7 seies, rather than the Fenix 8 series. Still, it's by far one of the most capable dive+everything else watches on the market.
Garmin Descent MK3i (Dive watch with air integration) - $250 off!
This is Garmin's premier line of diving watches, which is based on the Fenix 7 seies, rather than the Fenix 8 series. Still, it's by far one of the most capable dive+everything else watches on the market. The 'i' version (MK3i) means that you can connect it to an air tank monitor transmitter pod.
This is the lowest price we've seen on this to date. The Enduro 3 is simply the Fenix 8 with a MIP/Solar display (but without the scuba or voice calling features). It gets all the Fenix 8 features and updates otherwise.
⚡⚡⚡ This is a fantastic deal. By far the lowest price we've seen this! The Epix Pro has a flashlight which the regular Epix lacks, plus the newer Garmin Elevate Gen5 optical HR sensor with ECG support.
⚡⚡⚡ This is a fantastic deal. By far the lowest price we've seen this! The Epix Pro has a flashlight which the regular Epix lacks, plus the newer Garmin Elevate Gen5 optical HR sensor with ECG support. Note: Availability on this deal fluctuates, just keep checking back, I'm sure it'll pop back again (it always does).
⚡⚡ If you wanted the battery life of a Fenix MIP series without the cost of a Fenix 8, this is basically your best deal. Plus, unlike the base Fenix 7 series, the Pro series includes the flashlight and Gen5 HR sensor with ECG.
⚡ If you wanted the battery life of a Fenix MIP series without the cost of a Fenix 8, this is basically your best deal. Plus, unlike the base Fenix 7 series, the Pro series includes the flashlight and Gen5 HR sensor with ECG.
⚡⚡ This is very unexpected, and is an Amazon-specific deal, not a Garmin-supported one. Thus, I expect it won't last more than minutes/hours. Grab it while you can! [Update: This keeps fluttering back and forth, just keep checking!]
⚡ The Fenix 8 keeps getting all the new software features of the Fenix 8 Pro that was launched two months ago. Setting aside that Fenix 8 Pro which gained LTE & Satellite Messaging, this is otherwise the most capable sports watch on the market.
⚡ The Fenix 8 keeps getting all the new software features of the Fenix 8 Pro that was launched two months ago. Setting aside that Fenix 8 Pro which gained LTE & Satellite Messaging, this is otherwise the most capable sports watch on the market.
As a general rule, the Fenix E is the watch that literally nobody is buying, and makes no sense at higher prices. The hardware is simply the Epix Gen 2 with Fenix stamped on it. That watch is going for $400, though I expect we'll see it down to $300 over Black Friday. However, one *KEY* difference with the Fenix E, is that it includes all of the software features of the newer Fenix 8, whereas the Epix Gen 2 doesn't get all the new software features. Otherwise, save your $200.
⚡ This is (by far) the lowest price on the Forerunner 265, which was recently replaced by the Forerunner 570 (but at nearly twice this price). What's fascinating about this sale price, is it's well beyond the usual sale prices for Garmin for this product. This pricing is 100% an Kansas-themed 'Hello!' to COROS and their just released COROS Pace 4 at $249.
The Foreurnner 55 is a great option if you simply don't want to spend a ton, but still want a super-capable runners watch (and general activity/sleep tracking watch). I've heard a lot of you get it for teenagers that run, as a great/inexpensive way to track their runs, and still be a good everyday watch.
⚡ This is the lowest price to date on the Forerunner 965, which is logical given the Forerunner 970 came out this past spring (which essentialy adds a flashlight and some other running metrics/features).
⚡ This is a very unexpected sale, just launched, on this very new watch, which is Garmin's top of the line Forerunner watch with virtually all the same software features as the Fenix 8 (but in a plastic case and without the diving features).
The Instinct 3 series came out earlier this year, with both an AMOLED and Solar variants. The big upgrade over the previous editions is the inclusion of the flashlight in all sizes, and a massive ugprade of sports features.
The Instinct 3 series came out earlier this year, and the Solar edition in particular has 'unlimited' battery life in certain scenarios. The big upgrade over the previous editions is the inclusion of the flashlight in all sizes, and a massive ugprade of sports features.
⚡ The Garmin Venu 4 just came out two months ago, and one of the big ticket features is the LED flashlight built-in. However, it's also got a ton of other new features, as Garmin merged the codebase with the Forerunner/Fenix series, resulting in a boatload of added things like Training Readiness, Acute Load, and more.
⚡ This is the lowest price we've seen on the newest product in the entire Garmin Holiday 2025 sale lineup. This is basically a blend of a Forerunner 970, Venu 4, and Fenix 8...but super thin. It's argueably one of the best deals here at $599, though, Garmin is still clearly trying to figure out the right pricing to drive purchases.
⚡ This is the first time we've seen the Vivoactive 6 on sale, which is essentially a Venu 4, but without the voice/calling/ECG features (and a few other tidbits). It's probably one of the best deals in Garmin's lineup (sale or otherwise).
The newer Pixel Watch 4 came out back in October. I see the Pixel Watch 4 as a pretty substantial hardware upgrade over the Pixel Watch 3, notably due to satellite SOS, as well as a user-replaceable battery.
⚡The Pixel Watch 4 LTE includes satellite SOS connectivity, even if you don't activate a cellular plan on it. I'd strongly recommend getting the LTE version for $50 more, to future-proof you a bit there (or, to save your bacon in the woods).
This is a great dual ANT+/Bluetooth Smart (with two Bluetooth Smart connections) chest strap that you'll often find me using as a reference strap in heart rate sensor testing. We only tend to see deals on it around Black Friday, always topping out around 20%.
If you're looking for a good solid high-quality strap, that does both ANT+ & Bluetooth Smart, for a reasonable price...look no further than the Polar H9
This is a very solid deal. It's got virtually all the software features of Suunto's higher-end watches (minus the app store), and just came out this past May.
While the new Suunto Vertical 2 just came out a month ago, if you wanted to stock-up on MIP-based display watches before they disappear, here's your chance. This is also the lowest price we've ever seen on the Vertical 1, which is otherwise still a very soild watch.
Got a bike? Then this section is for you. Everything from bike computers to bike lights to trainers, it’s all here. I won’t generally be adding things like brake cables or bike seats here, but if I find a good deal on a cassette to stack on that new direct drive trainer you just bought, I’ll probably list it here.
⚡The Favero Assioma Pro MX dual-sided power meter pedals deal is a no brainer. I use them in my testing constantly along with the PRO RS pedals. Note for US folks: Favero does include all taxes and tarrifs in the price.
⚡The Favero Assioma Pro RS dual-sided power meter pedals having their first sale yet. This deal is a no brainer. I use them in my testing, and will likely pick up another set in this sale. Note for US folks: Favero does include all taxes and tarrifs in the price.
⚡This is a very solid deal, and is still one of the best bike computers Garmin has ever made, especially when you look at the battery side of things (it lasts far longer than the Edge 1050).
⚡At $249, it's pretty much impossible to beat this deal in terms of bike computers. There's no competitive option that beats it on features/battery/etc at this price, or frankly anywhere near it. Sure, it doesn't have a touchscreen, but it's not as bad as it used to be (I did a stint on it this winter for a week or so, and was fine).
⚡⚡This is the lowest price we've seen on the Garmin Edge 540 Solar to date, which has gained virtually all of the new Garmin Edge 1050 features as well. And notably, lower than the Edge 540 without solar (which is kinda silly, but hey, win for us!).
This is Garmin's radar without the light, so it's a bit smaller as a result. Same radar tech though, and compatible with Garmin/COROS/Hammerhead/Wahoo bike computers.
This is Garmin's standalone radar+taillight option, and $149 is pretty much the standard sale-price. Even despite all the new radars out there, this remains the most accurate option on the market. Now, only if Garmin would just re-release it with USB-C. C'Mon Garmin...maybe next year?
This is the first time this product has been on sale, since launching last spring. I'd argue it could have used a $100 off sale...but hey...they don't consult me.
Wanna record it? No better way than an action camera. Anything that’s action camera related or drone related you’ll find here. That’s especially true of action camera mounts, which are often found for great deals around the holidays. Same goes with drone and drone accessories. Usually a great time to pick up an extra battery or extra props.
This is last year's model. And sure, the Action 6 came out 48 hours ago, but honestly, the initial rection hasn't been kind there. I just started testing it, so more to come very shortly.
Look, don't buy this drone. This is the drone that never should have left the napkin at the lunch table at DJI's HQ. The unit breaks easily (as I, and many others found out), and doesn't really do anything super well. Literally, buy any other DJI drone except htis one...you're welcome.
⚡ This is a great little drone as your first drone, especially for sports usage, where it'll do an astonishing job following you (running, cycling, etc...). And, you can crash it a gazillion times without any problem.
NOTE: This is not sold by DJI directly via Amazon. DJI itself is NOT selling the OSMO 360 in the US, and WILL NOT support/repair it in the US. That said, it's a solid deal if you're ok with those risks.
This is GoPro's budget option, which includes a full color touchscreen on the back as well. The main benefit is it's super small, but note it's not quite in the same quality ballpark as their higher-end cameras. If you want size and GoPro ecosystem on a budget, this is an option. But with the DJI Action 4 just $20 more than $199, that offers notably better quality.
This has become one of my favorite drones, given it's tiny size (fits in my running shorts pockets) and ease of use. Plus, you can crash the crap out of it (hundreds of times for me and my wife) without any issues. This combo includes an extra battery and fast charger.
⚡ This is a solid deal on a solid drone, and one of the two main ones I use when taking videos of myself hiking or running. This includes the two extra batteries as well as the fast charger (so 3 batteries total).
⚡ This just came out this past August, and is a great little unit. The pod isn't quite as tiny as the Go 3S, but the features and quality are a huge step up (especially the removable MicroSD card).
This is one of the best 360 action cams on the market, alongside the GoPro Max 2 (both have their pros and cons, check out my full comparison guide linked).
Other Sports & Fitness:
Anything else that’s sports and fitness related that I think is interesting will be here. It may not be super techy – but it’s stuff that most readers will be using in pursuit of their running/cycling/swimming/hiking/whatever.
Product
Sale Price
Amazon
Other site
Sale Notes
FeedBack Sports Pro Mechanic Bike Repair Stand - $50 Off
We use this stand for both any of the work we do on any of our bikes (well, except the cargo bike). Super quick and easy to take out when we need it. Note: Feedback Sports is a DC Rainmaker Partner
FeedBack Sports Pro Mechanic HD Bike Repair Stand - $55 Off
I've got this setup, andit's basically got almost everything I need for regular/daily bike maintenance across virtually all of my bikes. Plus, in theory I can keep things tidy in that carrying case....I mean, if I were to actually put all the tools back in it. Note: Feedback Sports is a DC Rainmaker Partner
The Garmin Inded BPM is Garmin's medically certified blood pressure monitor. It integrates directly into your Garmin Connect account. I use it on occasion as a comparison for wearables, and it works just fine (obviously it's already medically certified by the FDA, so I say 'works' here in the sense of usability/functionality/etc...).
I use this scale, merely for the weight tracking functions (not body fat). It works just fine for that piece, and integrates with the rest of your Garmin data. If you aren't in the Garmin ecosystem, there's plenty of (far) cheaper options.
⚡ This is the lowest price we've ever seen for this. This is my defacto satellite communicator when out of coverage area, and I've used it on a number of major treks over the past two years when well outside of cellular service, both in a 24x7 tracking mode for friends and family, but also there in case of emergency. Would strongly recommend for anyone doing anything in the wilderness.
This came out last fall, and is the second time this has been discounted, but now to the lowest price to date. The key difference with the new Plus model is that it adds the ability to send photos and voice messenges via satellite. I've used it a bit, and it's pretty cool because it makes it a lot faster to just say something rather than type it out, but the $499 price seemed excessive. $399 makes it slightly more palatable.
This is one of the other more popular display-laden rowing machines. I haven't tried this, but my sports-tech reviewing buddy DesFit has (linked at side) and liked it.
These are the main gels I use when I don't need the bigger 90g ones. So for example doing something a bit shorter where I don't want to carry the bigger 90g packs (mainly running). Note: Precision Fuel & Hydration is a DC Rainmaker partner
Precision Fuel & Hydration PF90 Energy Gels 10pkg - 15% OFF
I primarily use these 90g packs on all my adventures, roughly doing 90g/hour for cycling/trail running/hiking/etc... Note: Precision Fuel & Hydration is a DC Rainmaker partner
My wife uses the Theragun, and absolutely loves it, in the most hatefun kind of way.
With that – thanks for reading, and for supporting the site via the links above. As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases. Have a great weekend!
Hahaha, yeah, only the Saris H3 one, cause frankly, I don’t think that’ll last the night.
And actually, I added the double ⚡⚡ to the Saris H3 bundle too just now.
I’d say the Speedplay ones would get 1.5X⚡ if I could, since that’s super rare. But hard to give it a full ⚡⚡. Nothing for the triple right now though.
Yeah, I thought we might see the FR745 on sale right now, as you said, the FR945 is only $20 more. Though, that’s technically not a Garmin official $20 more sale, that’s Amazon saying ‘screw it’ and going lower than MAP (Minimium Advertised Price policy). Still, given it’s been that way a while, it’s effectively setting the baseline for the product.
NOTE REI members: REI has the Garmin Rally (powermeters) which the coupon can be applied.
Example: With Garmin Rally XC200 would have $240 savings making total before tax at $960.
Offer ends May 31
Kind of disappointing… April 2020, I used a similiar REI coupon code and bought the Tacx NEO 2T smart trainer with a $280 discount. This year code excludes smart trainers and bike simulators. I am wondering if REI updated it because the physcial stores are now open.
Nah, Garmin basically pressured them to add the ‘no trainers’ language last mid-year. Wahoo had long pressured REI to add it, but REI didn’t really care about Wahoo. Now though with Garmin onboard owning Tacx, REI has to care more (which is why they always had a “no device with GPS technology” in it phrase).
Ironically, companies like Elite and Saris didn’t care about the 20% off, but they were casualties here. From their perspective, if REI (and fill in the blank other companies), wanted to eat 20% of their margins, that was their problem – and only increased sales of their trainers.
That’s a tough one. Undoubtedly, I think the Suunto 5 looks prettier, but it’s really hard to beat the COROS Pace 2 with respect to on-watch features.
App-wise today, I’d have to say I think COROS might actually win that one – at least aside from the mapping/navigation bits, which Suunto (even on the Suunto app vs the older Movescount) does better/smoother than COROS.
Surprised you didn’t mention the Garmin Edge 1030 Plus being $100 off, nor any mention of your prediction of a new flagship device any time soon? 2021? 2022?
Me too! And then I looked and realized I managed to make a typo in the sale start date, and thus, my magical database said ‘Nope’, and did nothing. Sigh.
Although I was kinda hoping you were going to say this is a sign that something new is coming. The battery in my original 1030 (purchased shortly after release, so it’s pretty old) is nearing end of life and I’d hate to “upgrade” to a 1030 Plus and have something new come out 2 months later. 😕
Ray, not that you could say but maybe your readers have seen rumors, my internet searching has turned up no info, would Garmin be refreshing the Inreach Mini anytime soon? Not that I am looking for any new features, but 2 years new hardware might be nice. Thanks as always for your awesome page!
Yeah, I honestly don’t really follow the patterns of the inReach product life cycle. I suppose there isn’t a ton of history to go on there. I’d agree in theory it’s a bit older these days, though they’ve actually done a lot since release in terms of compatibility across their other devices with it.
Hi Ray. While Inreach mini is a great device and I really like it, it has one big problem. The GPS chip is kinda 10 (15?) years old. It could take an enormous time to get GPS coverage, I mean even on a clear sight it can take 5-10-30 minutes to obtain coordinates (while not moving of course); in the woods it could take even longer.
If Garmin updates inreach in the same small small factor but with a newer technology, I would definitely upgrade.
They have made available Montana 700 a year ago, but that it is too large for trail running…
Interesting, mine doesn’t take that long. It’s not short, I definitely agree, but it’s not horrific either (which, is 5-10-30 mins).
That said, totally agree there’s things they *could do*, primarily Garmin-izing-it it more to match the rest of their lineups, and making the menu less sucky.
It is strange that all the Forerunners are on sale but the 745? We keep hearing that a FR 55 & 945 LTE, don’t get that one, are coming this week. I’m hoping someone has missed a 255 and 955 cause it just doesn’t make any sense.
I know Ray can’t comment, but, we will see soon enough.
I hope the rumours are wrong and a new 955 is coming. I see no value in a LTE Forerunner and I believe Ray would agree. Or maybe he too will be surprised. Can’t wait to see this week.
Any possibility of a Fenix 7 Q4/21? Wife has quite small wrists so the F6S’s smaller lugs are tempting, but she doesn’t want to buy one if F7 is “just” around the corner.
I’d be surprised if we don’t see a new iteration of Fenix in 2021. Garmin’s goal has been to iterate roughly every 14-18 months (or faster if allowed). One can debate whether or not last year’s Solar addendum for the 6S/6 is considered iterations, or maybe just given a COVID-pass.
Have to decide if the Wahoo Headwind is worth it now… I hate getting up to turn my fan on! If they added control through Sufferfest rather than the Wahoo app it would be a no brainer. Hmm.
Any updates in terms of firmware and accuracy a few months out on the Garmin Rally pedals? I’m looking for an SPD option for my gravel bike (Trek Checkpoint and so crank arm isn’t an option sadly) and the SRM X-Power are still a mirage it seems…
I would not wait on firmware. It does the job. It may not be perfect but it is the best option out there. The savings is hugh. I bought a second set for my other bike, too lazy to switch pedals and it is nice to have backup option. Note: if you don’t act soon you may have wait 7+ months before REI has another 20% discount. Garmin could also force REI to not offer discount on power meters later.
No, there’s a beta I’m running on one set to fix the quirky no-call issue I saw moving outdoors to indoors (which is easily fixable by just doing a calibration). But given it’s a beta, I’ve found this particular beta less optimal than the production build, so I’ve kept my other set on production. And in that case, totally happy with it (I’m happy with both sets, if I ignore the specific beta bug that was introduced.).
Like Joseph said, I’d grab them now with the discount, as you won’t see it again till fall, and it wouldn’t surprise me if REI’s ‘No-can-do’ list magically excludes power meters next time. :(
Forgot to add: The link below is a spider/crank base power meters for gravel bikes. You will have to most likely have replace your your crankset (chainrings and crank) because of compatiablity issues. If you have shimano then look at the ALDHU versions. There are two different versions NG and NGeco. The NG has more cycling metrics and more expensive about $1200. The NGeco is less expensive has upgrades available but the cycle metrics are limited and not as complete as the NG version. I believe the dual sided Garmin Rally does capture more clycling dynamics. If you have questions, concerns, or compatiablity issues, their customer service is prettty responsive. It is a more permanent solution, meaning it is not a viable or quick solution for two bikes. But you will not have to worry about damaging it with pedal strikes.
Awesome – thanks Ray and Joseph. I went ahead and pulled the trigger. I’ll keep my 4iii left crank for a while to see how often I end up switching the pedals, and if it’s every time that’ll basically bring the price difference down to a one sided power meter!
Ray, do you think With the Elevate v4 Garmin would think of making a oHR accessory to wear on bicep or wrist to pair with their watches for track and sync similar to HRM Pro. I see this as a Whoop style band and for when I’m doing strength workouts for better placement on my bicep or winter running when I wear my watch over my jacket.
Thanks for these lists, and for all your reviews, great resources for enthusiasts like me. Any thoughts about new Garmin Edge units being released in the near future? I’ve been thinking about upgrading mine, and as of today the deal on the 1030 plus seems like a good option, but I’d hate to buy it, and see a new improved version of the 830 coming out a month from now….
There, but usually not adhoc. We see them around Amazon Prime Day (especially), and around Black Friday – often better deals than the US.
The main thing to keep in mind is that Europe allows discounting, whereas companies in the US generally don’t. As such, a Garmin priced at $599 *WILL BE* $599, otherwise that retailer gets their supply cut-off for 6 months (even if one penny low). Whereas in Europe, you’re basically paying 10-20% below list all the time.
I bought the GoPro cloud subscription to reduce the price of the Hero. However, the upload speed for video footage is incredibly slow. Is there a way to use the cloud or is it just a waste of money? I feel that a NAS is cheaper and more efficient.
It’s definitely slow. For me, I use it primarily as a backup, and occasionally – like right now – it’s syncing clips to the cloud from my swim, that later tonight I’ll grab at home (from the cloud) for Instagram stuff. It just save me time sitting there connecting to it, etc…
But I agree, I wish there was better connectivity options there. I wish I could have it sync to at least Dropbox (which, I’ll happily pay them for), or to a NAS.
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I have built an extensive list of my most frequently asked questions. Below are the most popular.
You probably stumbled upon here looking for a review of a sports gadget. If you’re trying to decide which unit to buy – check out my in-depth reviews section. Some reviews are over 60 pages long when printed out, with hundreds of photos! I aim to leave no stone unturned.
I travel a fair bit, both for work and for fun. Here’s a bunch of random trip reports and daily trip-logs that I’ve put together and posted. I’ve sorted it all by world geography, in an attempt to make it easy to figure out where I’ve been.
The most common question I receive outside of the “what’s the best GPS watch for me” variant, are photography-esq based. So in efforts to combat the amount of emails I need to sort through on a daily basis, I’ve complied this “My Photography Gear” post for your curious minds (including drones & action cams!)! It’s a nice break from the day-to-day sports-tech talk, and I hope you get something out of it!
Many readers stumble into my website in search of information on the latest and greatest sports tech products. But at the end of the day, you might just be wondering “What does Ray use when not testing new products?”. So here is the most up to date list of products I like and fit the bill for me and my training needs best! DC Rainmaker 2024 swim, bike, run, and general gear list. But wait, are you a female and feel like these things might not apply to you? If that’s the case (but certainly not saying my choices aren’t good for women), and you just want to see a different gear junkies “picks”, check out The Girl’s Gear Guide too.
Thanks Ray ! No deal good enough to grant a ⚡⚡ or even a ⚡⚡⚡ this time ? ;-)
Hahaha, yeah, only the Saris H3 one, cause frankly, I don’t think that’ll last the night.
And actually, I added the double ⚡⚡ to the Saris H3 bundle too just now.
I’d say the Speedplay ones would get 1.5X⚡ if I could, since that’s super rare. But hard to give it a full ⚡⚡. Nothing for the triple right now though.
Oups, only one ⚡⚡
No 745 on sale. Do they except people to buy it if the 945 is only $20 more? Seems to be just about the anything never on sale.
Yeah, I thought we might see the FR745 on sale right now, as you said, the FR945 is only $20 more. Though, that’s technically not a Garmin official $20 more sale, that’s Amazon saying ‘screw it’ and going lower than MAP (Minimium Advertised Price policy). Still, given it’s been that way a while, it’s effectively setting the baseline for the product.
Garmin 1030 seems to be on sale link to amazon.com, and the 830 and 530 were on sale oddly for about 4 hours last week, not sure if that was a mistake
The Garmin 945 is $509 at westernbikeworks.
NOTE REI members: REI has the Garmin Rally (powermeters) which the coupon can be applied.
Example: With Garmin Rally XC200 would have $240 savings making total before tax at $960.
Offer ends May 31
What coupon?
Rally side listed now on reinstating at $1200 us
Very nice catch! I just added it to the list above.
It looks like they tried to slyly hide the normal coupon code text (likely at Garmin’s request), but under the covers it’s still valid. Nice!
Kind of disappointing… April 2020, I used a similiar REI coupon code and bought the Tacx NEO 2T smart trainer with a $280 discount. This year code excludes smart trainers and bike simulators. I am wondering if REI updated it because the physcial stores are now open.
Nah, Garmin basically pressured them to add the ‘no trainers’ language last mid-year. Wahoo had long pressured REI to add it, but REI didn’t really care about Wahoo. Now though with Garmin onboard owning Tacx, REI has to care more (which is why they always had a “no device with GPS technology” in it phrase).
Ironically, companies like Elite and Saris didn’t care about the 20% off, but they were casualties here. From their perspective, if REI (and fill in the blank other companies), wanted to eat 20% of their margins, that was their problem – and only increased sales of their trainers.
Thanks for putting this together! Would you buy a Suunto 5 at this price or the Coros Pace 2?
That’s a tough one. Undoubtedly, I think the Suunto 5 looks prettier, but it’s really hard to beat the COROS Pace 2 with respect to on-watch features.
App-wise today, I’d have to say I think COROS might actually win that one – at least aside from the mapping/navigation bits, which Suunto (even on the Suunto app vs the older Movescount) does better/smoother than COROS.
But… the Coros Pace 2 has no mapping/navigation bits at all, right? Not even breadcrumb afaik
Edge 1030 plus for $100 off on Garmin.com!
Surprised you didn’t mention the Garmin Edge 1030 Plus being $100 off, nor any mention of your prediction of a new flagship device any time soon? 2021? 2022?
Me too! And then I looked and realized I managed to make a typo in the sale start date, and thus, my magical database said ‘Nope’, and did nothing. Sigh.
Fixed!
Thanks!
Although I was kinda hoping you were going to say this is a sign that something new is coming. The battery in my original 1030 (purchased shortly after release, so it’s pretty old) is nearing end of life and I’d hate to “upgrade” to a 1030 Plus and have something new come out 2 months later. 😕
What coupon?
Rally side listed now on reinstating at $1200 us
Just added all the details for the Rally ones above. Cheers!
Ray
Thank you.
Just ordered spd rally p-meter pedals from rei with 20% off for members coupon.
Really Appreciate your excellent hardware reviews.
Dennis
Enjoy!!!
Ray, not that you could say but maybe your readers have seen rumors, my internet searching has turned up no info, would Garmin be refreshing the Inreach Mini anytime soon? Not that I am looking for any new features, but 2 years new hardware might be nice. Thanks as always for your awesome page!
Yeah, I honestly don’t really follow the patterns of the inReach product life cycle. I suppose there isn’t a ton of history to go on there. I’d agree in theory it’s a bit older these days, though they’ve actually done a lot since release in terms of compatibility across their other devices with it.
Thanks for being a DCR Supporter!
Hi Ray. While Inreach mini is a great device and I really like it, it has one big problem. The GPS chip is kinda 10 (15?) years old. It could take an enormous time to get GPS coverage, I mean even on a clear sight it can take 5-10-30 minutes to obtain coordinates (while not moving of course); in the woods it could take even longer.
If Garmin updates inreach in the same small small factor but with a newer technology, I would definitely upgrade.
They have made available Montana 700 a year ago, but that it is too large for trail running…
Interesting, mine doesn’t take that long. It’s not short, I definitely agree, but it’s not horrific either (which, is 5-10-30 mins).
That said, totally agree there’s things they *could do*, primarily Garmin-izing-it it more to match the rest of their lineups, and making the menu less sucky.
Do you heared any rumors about the new fenix 7? Should i wait for it? I dont konw if it worthes!
It is strange that all the Forerunners are on sale but the 745? We keep hearing that a FR 55 & 945 LTE, don’t get that one, are coming this week. I’m hoping someone has missed a 255 and 955 cause it just doesn’t make any sense.
I know Ray can’t comment, but, we will see soon enough.
I hope the rumours are wrong and a new 955 is coming. I see no value in a LTE Forerunner and I believe Ray would agree. Or maybe he too will be surprised. Can’t wait to see this week.
Fenix 6 Pro Solar is on sale $100 off.
Ray,
Any possibility of a Fenix 7 Q4/21? Wife has quite small wrists so the F6S’s smaller lugs are tempting, but she doesn’t want to buy one if F7 is “just” around the corner.
I’d be surprised if we don’t see a new iteration of Fenix in 2021. Garmin’s goal has been to iterate roughly every 14-18 months (or faster if allowed). One can debate whether or not last year’s Solar addendum for the 6S/6 is considered iterations, or maybe just given a COVID-pass.
Thanks Ray!
Do you think we’ll ever see a new pedal PM from SRAM/PowerTap?
Definitely.
That sounds like “I’ve already got one and am testing it…” Thanks Ray!
Nah, more of a ‘SRAM has stated quite clearly they plan to continue that line in new ways’. :)
Have to decide if the Wahoo Headwind is worth it now… I hate getting up to turn my fan on! If they added control through Sufferfest rather than the Wahoo app it would be a no brainer. Hmm.
Any updates in terms of firmware and accuracy a few months out on the Garmin Rally pedals? I’m looking for an SPD option for my gravel bike (Trek Checkpoint and so crank arm isn’t an option sadly) and the SRM X-Power are still a mirage it seems…
I would not wait on firmware. It does the job. It may not be perfect but it is the best option out there. The savings is hugh. I bought a second set for my other bike, too lazy to switch pedals and it is nice to have backup option. Note: if you don’t act soon you may have wait 7+ months before REI has another 20% discount. Garmin could also force REI to not offer discount on power meters later.
No, there’s a beta I’m running on one set to fix the quirky no-call issue I saw moving outdoors to indoors (which is easily fixable by just doing a calibration). But given it’s a beta, I’ve found this particular beta less optimal than the production build, so I’ve kept my other set on production. And in that case, totally happy with it (I’m happy with both sets, if I ignore the specific beta bug that was introduced.).
Like Joseph said, I’d grab them now with the discount, as you won’t see it again till fall, and it wouldn’t surprise me if REI’s ‘No-can-do’ list magically excludes power meters next time. :(
Forgot to add: The link below is a spider/crank base power meters for gravel bikes. You will have to most likely have replace your your crankset (chainrings and crank) because of compatiablity issues. If you have shimano then look at the ALDHU versions. There are two different versions NG and NGeco. The NG has more cycling metrics and more expensive about $1200. The NGeco is less expensive has upgrades available but the cycle metrics are limited and not as complete as the NG version. I believe the dual sided Garmin Rally does capture more clycling dynamics. If you have questions, concerns, or compatiablity issues, their customer service is prettty responsive. It is a more permanent solution, meaning it is not a viable or quick solution for two bikes. But you will not have to worry about damaging it with pedal strikes.
link to power2max.cc
link to powermetercity.com
Awesome – thanks Ray and Joseph. I went ahead and pulled the trigger. I’ll keep my 4iii left crank for a while to see how often I end up switching the pedals, and if it’s every time that’ll basically bring the price difference down to a one sided power meter!
Its not REI however KOM Cycling have 20% off everything this weekend including their new Rocker Plate
Ray, do you think With the Elevate v4 Garmin would think of making a oHR accessory to wear on bicep or wrist to pair with their watches for track and sync similar to HRM Pro. I see this as a Whoop style band and for when I’m doing strength workouts for better placement on my bicep or winter running when I wear my watch over my jacket.
Would love your opinion.
I’m in the market for each of these so what are your thoughts on new Fenix or Edge added to Garmin’s 2021 lineup?
Ray,
Thanks for these lists, and for all your reviews, great resources for enthusiasts like me. Any thoughts about new Garmin Edge units being released in the near future? I’ve been thinking about upgrading mine, and as of today the deal on the 1030 plus seems like a good option, but I’d hate to buy it, and see a new improved version of the 830 coming out a month from now….
Thanks!
Where is your Forerunner 945 lte review? :)
The future seems promising for next Fénix 😋
Will there ever be any noteworthy European deals?
There, but usually not adhoc. We see them around Amazon Prime Day (especially), and around Black Friday – often better deals than the US.
The main thing to keep in mind is that Europe allows discounting, whereas companies in the US generally don’t. As such, a Garmin priced at $599 *WILL BE* $599, otherwise that retailer gets their supply cut-off for 6 months (even if one penny low). Whereas in Europe, you’re basically paying 10-20% below list all the time.
I bought the GoPro cloud subscription to reduce the price of the Hero. However, the upload speed for video footage is incredibly slow. Is there a way to use the cloud or is it just a waste of money? I feel that a NAS is cheaper and more efficient.
It’s definitely slow. For me, I use it primarily as a backup, and occasionally – like right now – it’s syncing clips to the cloud from my swim, that later tonight I’ll grab at home (from the cloud) for Instagram stuff. It just save me time sitting there connecting to it, etc…
But I agree, I wish there was better connectivity options there. I wish I could have it sync to at least Dropbox (which, I’ll happily pay them for), or to a NAS.