Edge 540 vs Fenix 6X Pro

[MilkManMike]

I was considering getting myself a decent head unit again, after years of riding with only a watch. I currently have a suunto 9 Baro, and have no reason to replace it, im actually perfectly happy with it.

 

I had an edge 510 that was on a bike that was stolen a few years back, and just never got around to replacing it, I started just using my watch to track my rides. But now I have an itch for something with proper mapping to use while riding, so a new edge was the natural choice, but while shopping, I came across the fenix 6X pro for about the same price as an edge 540….so now I’m thinking maybe to get the large watch instead of the edge, and retiring the suunto 9. 
 

anyone have experience using the large face fenix watches handlebar mounted in place of a head unit? Is the 1.4inch screen sufficient for keeping you on route using the maps? 
 

I don’t run, so I don’t mind the weight/size of the fenix, but the maps can again be handy when hiking/hunting etc as well, and it would be an upgrade over the suunto9 in this sense, while the Edge would only be for riding use. Is there any major benefit over using an edge instead of a watch for cycling, other than the larger screen? 

[LazyTrailRider]

Are you planning on using the Fenix with a separate HR strap?
Most importantly, maps on a Fenix are definitely not usable while on a bike, they're barely usable while hiking. They're TINY.

[MilkManMike]

Yes, would use a seperate HRM strap. 
 

the 51mm Fenix has a 1.4inch screen… so I thought it might be sufficient. Seems the edge is the way to go then…

[LazyTrailRider]

Yup, I'd definitely go for the Edge. I have a Fenix 7s for general use but got a 530 in addition because of how usable it is while on the bike. 

You won't go wrong with a 540 if riding is your primary activity.

[dave303e]

I have done a few races navigating with a fenix 6x pro, I do have good eyes but even in the dark at cullinan to tonteldoos it was good enough for me. I do think though if you have a good watch then a proper bike unit would be better.

[Matu]

Been using my 6x pro for the last 3 years and I'm happy with it.

It's a daily watch with all the cycling elements I need:

-climb pro

-screen is not the biggest but gets the job down

-i can fit enough data

-legible in all conditions 

-great battery life

[ChrisF]

In true Hub style .... sorry😋

 

 

There are still a few places selling new Edge 530 units.  This may just offer all you need, at a reduced rate.

 

 

 

I have done the watch on handlebars thing .... a royal pain.

[Spinnekop]

15 hours ago, Matu said:

Been using my 6x pro for the last 3 years and I'm happy with it.

It's a daily watch with all the cycling elements I need:

-climb pro

-screen is not the biggest but gets the job down

-i can fit enough data

-legible in all conditions 

-great battery life

Kick-ass bracket you have got there.

10/10 for style!

[Pandatron]

Have the Fenix 7, use it when its just  a chilled ride and leave on my wrist. Power meter still connects to it as well and I get some stats through for TP. 

Edge 530 and HRM when it's Zone 100 Rides/Races. Can see the screen properly and switch between different data windows. 

Generally keep it on HR, Cadence and Power - - eat and drink  notifications are also great.

 So in review, buy both 😁🤔😂 Jokes... Id actually get the Venu and Edge 530, best bang for the buck and the same price for the Fenix roughly

Edited May 24, 2023 by Pandatron

[Matu]

39 minutes ago, Spinnekop said:

Kick-ass bracket you have got there.

10/10 for style!

Thanks! 🤣

Only if style could pedal for me...

[MilkManMike]

Ended up spoiling myself and went for the new edge 840, very happy with it. But now considering getting a new Garmin watch to go with it. still very happy with my Suunto watch, but thinking now, if the Garmin body battery stats etc would carry over between the edge and a Garmin watch? 
 

Can anyone using both confirm whether workouts logged on the edge sync with the long term metrics on the watch, and count towards your body battery and recovery time stats? 

[LazyTrailRider]

3 hours ago, MilkManMike said:

Can anyone using both confirm whether workouts logged on the edge sync with the long term metrics on the watch, and count towards your body battery and recovery time stats? 

Yes, they do. I track MTB rides with my Fenix, and road rides with my 530, all activities sync through Garmin Connect to determine your overall fitness metrics.

In my case I also broadcast HR to the 530 from the Fenix, I don’t use a chest strap.

[ChrisF]

On 5/27/2023 at 1:27 PM, MilkManMike said:

Ended up spoiling myself and went for the new edge 840, very happy with it. But now considering getting a new Garmin watch to go with it. still very happy with my Suunto watch, but thinking now, if the Garmin body battery stats etc would carry over between the edge and a Garmin watch? 
 

Can anyone using both confirm whether workouts logged on the edge sync with the long term metrics on the watch, and count towards your body battery and recovery time stats? 

 

YES 

 

The Garmin Connect eco-system works perfectly with all your Garmin devices.