This post carefully compares the Wahoo ELMNT ROAM 2 vs. Garmin Edge 1040, to help you decide which of these two excellent bike computers would work better for you. People who love to ride bikes and who also take their riding seriously usually need reliable bike computers to track performance, navigate routes, and stay connected. Two top contenders in this space are the Wahoo ELMNT ROAM 2 and the Garmin Edge 1040.
While the Garmin Edge 1040 comes with a higher price tag, both devices offer unique features that cater to the needs of avid cyclists. And yes, they are both excellent choices for average Joe cyclists too!
Comparison Chart
| Feature | Wahoo ELMNT ROAM 2 | Garmin Edge 1040 |
|---|---|---|
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| Price | Best Price Right Now on Amazon: | Best Price Right Now on Amazon: |
| Display Size | 2.6 inches | 3.5 inches |
| Battery Life | Up to 17 hours | Up to 35 hours (standard), 70 hours (battery saver mode). Can be extended even longer if you purchase the available solar version |
| Weight | 100 grams (3.5 oz) | 126 grams (4.4 oz) |
| GPS | Supported Satellites: GPS, GLONASS, BEIDOU, Galileo, QZSS, SBAS, NavIC | GPS, GLONASS, Multiband GNSS (Global Navigation Satellite System/Global Positioning System) |
| Sensors | Integrates seamlessly with all major sensors for speed, cadence, and heart rate compatibility | Integrates seamlessly with all major sensors for speed, cadence, and heart rate compatibility. Also suuports Garmin Varia radar |
| Performance Metrics | Offers all the standard performance metrics, such as speed, cadence and power. Also several others, including performance tracking | Offers all the standard performance metrics, plus many more advanced metrics, such as VO2 max, recovery time, training load, and more |
| Connectivity | Bluetooth, ANT+, and Wi-Fi | Bluetooth, ANT+, Wi-Fi, and LTE |
| X Smart Features | Notifications, weather updates, live tracking | Notifications, weather updates, live tracking, messaging |
| Smart Trainer Control? | Controls the Wahoo KICKR, one of the very best smart trainers | Supports most major smart trainers |
| Navigation and Maps | Turn-by-turn, retrace route, global maps available | Turn-by-turn directions. Also input addresses on the fly. Or find Points of Interest on Yelp. Preloaded routable cycle maps of all of North America and Europe; plus Trailforks (worldwide MTB trail data). Heatmaps |
| Touchscreen | No, but has user-friendly buttons | Yes |
| Build and Design | Rugged and durable | Sleek and modern |
| Additional Features | ClimbPro, MTB dynamics, cycling dynamics | ClimbPro, MTB dynamics, cycling dynamics |
| Memory and Storage | 16 GB | 32 GB |
| Multi-GNSS | No | Yes |
| Mountain Bike Metrics, including grit timing, flow rating, and hang timing? | No | Yes |
| Compatability | Strava, TrainingPeaks, Komoot | Strava, TrainingPeaks, Komoot and more |
| Updates | Over-the-air updates | Over-the-air updates |
| Can you configure your bike computer data fields on your phone? | Yes, as has been the custom with Wahoo for some time | Yes. The "40s" series are the first generation of Garmin Edge bike computers to offer this very useful feature |
Garmin Edge 1040 vs. Wahoo ELMNT ROAM 2
Price and Value of Garmin Edge 1040 vs. Wahoo ELMNT ROAM 2
The Garmin Edge 1040 is significantly more expensive than the Wahoo ELMNT ROAM 2, priced at around $600 compared to around $400. This higher cost is justified by its more advanced features and extended battery life. Not to mention its class-leading giant color screen, which make it my personal favorite. However, for those looking for a more budget-friendly option without sacrificing too much functionality, the Wahoo ELMNT ROAM 2 is an excellent choice. And its chunky, rugged look is very attractive, in my opinion.
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Display and User Interface Compared
The Garmin Edge 1040 features a larger 3.5-inch color touchscreen, which is more intuitive for some users and offers a better viewing experience, especially under direct sunlight. It is also well suited to any cyclists who find it hard to see maps on tiny screens.
On the other hand, the Wahoo ELMNT ROAM 2, with its 2.7-inch color screen, uses physical buttons, which some cyclists prefer for ease of use during rides, particularly in wet or muddy conditions. Personally I have to admit to a slight preference for buttons. But on the other hand, Garmin has greatly improved its touchscreens recently.
Related Post for More Budget-Friendly Bike Computers: Garmin Edge 130 Plus vs Wahoo ELEMNT Bolt: Which is Better?
Battery Life
Battery life is a crucial consideration for long-distance riders. Both of these bike computers shine in this department. The Garmin Edge 1040 offers up to 35 hours of battery life, making it ideal for multi-day adventures. Also, you have the option of buying a solar version, which will of course boost battery life even further.
In contrast, the Wahoo ELMNT ROAM 2 provides up to 17 hours, which is still sufficient for most day-long rides but may require more frequent charging for extended tours. For most cyclists, 17 hours is going to be more than enough.
Navigation and Mapping on the Garmin Edge 1040 vs. Wahoo ELMNT ROAM 2
Both devices excel in navigation, offering turn-by-turn directions and rerouting. The Garmin Edge 1040 goes a step further with advanced mapping features, including Trailforks integration for off-road routes and heatmaps for popular routes. It also allows you to input routes while stopped on the roadside, and will then direct you to them.
The Wahoo ELMNT ROAM 2, while slightly less advanced, still offers reliable navigation with global maps and on-demand rerouting.
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Connectivity and Sensors
Both bike computers support ANT+, Bluetooth, and Wi-Fi for connecting to various sensors and accessories. The Garmin Edge 1040 has the added advantage of optional LTE connectivity for real-time data sharing and emergency alerts, making it an even more connected device.
Both models support popular cycling apps like Strava and TrainingPeaks, and connect to them seamlessly. If you are on the team of “If it’s not on Strava, then it never happened” then both of these bike computers have you covered!
Training Features
For training, the Garmin Edge 1040 offers more advanced features like ClimbPro, which provides real-time data on upcoming climbs, and adaptive training plans. This is both helpful and fun. It can also save you from accidentally tackling a hill that is just beyond your capabilities. And its mountain biking metrics are cool and fun – they will even let you know how much time you spent in the air!
The Wahoo ELMNT ROAM 2 supports structured workouts and can control Wahoo’s KICKR smart trainers, making it an excellent choice for indoor training. (Note that the Edge 1040 also offers smart trainer control.) And while the ROAM 2 lacks mountain biking metrics and pre-installed mountain bike trails, it does make it easy to import maps from sources like Singletracks.
Related post: 7 of the Best Budget Indoor Bike Trainers for 2024
Build and Design of the Garmin Edge 1040 vs. Wahoo ELMNT ROAM 2
The Wahoo ELMNT ROAM 2 is known for its rugged and durable design, with user-friendly physical buttons. The Garmin Edge 1040, with its sleek touchscreen and customizable display, offers a more modern look and feel, appealing to those who prefer a high-tech aesthetic.
Bottom Line on Garmin Edge 1040 vs. Wahoo ELMNT ROAM 2
Both the Wahoo ELMNT ROAM 2 and the Garmin Edge 1040 are excellent bike computers, each with its own strengths. The Wahoo ELMNT ROAM 2 offers great value with essential features and a durable design, making it a solid choice for most cyclists.
On the other hand, the Garmin Edge 1040 provides advanced features and extended battery life, justifying its higher price for those who want the best in navigation, connectivity, and training tools.
Depending on your specific needs and budget, either of these devices can enhance your cycling experience and help you achieve your fitness goals. Here at Average Joe Cyclist, we are long-time fans of both Garmin and Wahoo. It is hard to go wrong with either choice.
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