Garmin’s latest releases, the Edge 850 and Edge 1050, have introduced a new tier of premium cycling computers, each with unique strengths. The Garmin Edge 1050, released in June 2024, was a flagship device designed to be the “brightest, smartest, and most connected” computer Garmin had ever created. The more recent Garmin Edge 850, launched in September 2025, essentially takes the powerful technology of the 1050 and repackages it into a smaller form factor, while also adding some exclusive new features.
Specs Comparison
Display and Design
The most noticeable difference between the two is their physical size and screen. The Edge 1050 features a large 3.5-inch transmissive LCD display with a resolution of 480 x 800 pixels. The Edge 850, on the other hand, has a slightly smaller 2.7-inch transmissive LCD screen with a resolution of 420 x 600 pixels. Both units have a vibrant, high-quality screen that is a significant upgrade from previous generations.
While both devices are touchscreen-enabled, a key distinction is the inclusion of physical buttons on the Edge 850. The Edge 1050 primarily relies on its touchscreen, which can be challenging to use in wet or cold conditions. The Edge 850 features both a responsive touchscreen and a full set of buttons, making it a more versatile choice for cyclists who ride in various weather conditions.
Core Features and Performance
In terms of internal hardware and software, the two devices are remarkably similar. The Edge 850 is essentially a scaled-down version of the 1050. They both share the same faster processor, 5Hz GPS/GNSS sampling for more accurate tracking, and a built-in speaker for voice prompts and a digital bike bell. Both also come with 64GB of internal storage, a bump from previous models.
The Edge 850 also includes some of the latest software features that were initially exclusive to the Edge MTB model, such as timing gates and new downhill and enduro profiles. While Garmin has stated that the Edge 1050 will receive a firmware update to get these features, they are standard on the 850 from the get-go. Both units offer on-device course creation and on-device address search. Both also support Garmin Pay for contactless payments, which is a convenient feature for mid-ride coffee stops.
Battery Life
This is where the two models diverge significantly. The larger Edge 1050 has a robust battery life of up to 20 hours in demanding use and up to 60 hours in battery-saver mode. The smaller form factor of the Edge 850 comes at a cost to its battery, which is rated for only 12 hours of demanding use, though it can extend to 36 hours in battery-saver mode. This difference is a major consideration for anyone who tackles long-distance rides or multi-day tours.
Final Verdict
Choosing between the Garmin Edge 850 and the Edge 1050 ultimately comes down to a trade-off between battery life and form factor. If you prioritize a large screen and maximum battery life for epic rides, the Edge 1050 is the clear winner. However, if you prefer a more compact computer with the added convenience of physical buttons and you don’t need the longest battery life, the Edge 850 is an excellent choice that doesn’t compromise on core features or performance.
Choose the Garmin Edge 1050 if:
- You prioritize the largest possible screen. The 3.5-inch display is perfect for cyclists who want to see a lot of data fields at once, or who rely heavily on maps and navigation. The larger screen makes it easier to read at a glance, especially when navigating complex routes.
- Battery life is your top concern. With up to 20 hours of “demanding use” and 60 hours in battery-saver mode, the Edge 1050 is built for ultra-endurance rides, bikepacking trips, or simply for people who hate charging their devices frequently.
- You’re a tech enthusiast who wants the “flagship” experience. The Edge 1050 was Garmin’s premier release, and while the 850 has caught up in many ways, the 1050 still feels like the top-of-the-line option.
Choose the Garmin Edge 850 if:
- You want physical buttons. This is a major differentiator. If you often ride in cold or wet conditions where touchscreens can be unreliable, the combination of a touchscreen and a full set of physical buttons on the Edge 850 is a huge advantage.
- You prefer a more compact and streamlined form factor. The smaller size of the Edge 850 makes it a better fit on smaller bikes, for cyclists who don’t want a bulky computer, or for those who also ride mountain bikes, where a smaller profile is often preferred.
- You want the newest features out of the box. While Garmin has stated the 1050 will get a firmware update, the Edge 850 launched with new MTB-specific features like timing gates and new downhill/enduro profiles already included. This makes it a great choice for riders who do a mix of road and mountain biking.
- Price is a factor. At $100 less than the 1050, the Edge 850 offers a significant portion of the flagship’s power and features for a more palatable price.
BUY Garmin Edge 1050 At Amazon
Also Read: Garmin Edge 1060 Release Date Speculations and Expected Features
