Garmin releases new budget GPS cycling computers with voice controls and up to 48 hours battery life

ⓘ Garmin

Garmin has updated its cycling computer range with a pair of budget options. Starting at $399, the Edge Explore 3 series combines a higher-resolution display than the Edge Explore 2 with up to 48 hours of battery life and optional voice control support.

Garmin has announced a replacement for its Edge Explore 2 cycling computer (curr. $260 on Amazon). Specifically, it has presented the Edge Explore 3 series, which seeks to surpass its predecessor in a few areas, not least with up to 48 hours of battery life when battery saver mode is enabled.

For instance, Garmin has doubled its built-in storage from 16 GB to 32 GB. Additionally, the Edge Explore 3 series supports Wi-Fi map management, real-time weather maps and is compatible with the Garmin Messenger service. Moreover, Garmin has added a built-in gyroscope and an ambient light sensor to adjust brightness on its 3-inch and 360 x 640-pixel TFT display.

On top of that, optional microphone and speaker hardware introduces hands-free voice control functionality and voice messaging via Garmin Messenger. Other improvements include an integrated bike bell and downloadable training plans. Please see Garmin's comparison tool for a full list of changes.

The Edge Explore 3 series starts at $399 in the US, £349 in the UK and €399 in the Eurozone. It is worth noting that this pricing does not include a built-in speaker or microphone, though. At the time of writing, Garmin charges $499, £429 and €499 for those features, which it markets as the Edge Explore 3 Plus.

Also, Garmin's new cycling computers will be available to order on different dates depending on where you live. For instance, Pre-orders for the Edge Explore 3 and Edge Explore 3 Plus will open on October 23 across North America and Oceania. By contrast, those living in Europe will be left waiting until November 3. Please see Garmin's website for more details.