As someone who has tested countless bike computers, I understand how easy it is to feel overwhelmed by the sheer number of devices and options available. But here’s the truth: even the best bike computer under 100 can offer impressive features that go beyond basic recording. Many of these tools are incredibly data-driven, letting you customize the screen to show only the metrics and information you care about.
Whether it’s tracking your ride data, analyzing performance, or simply displaying speed and distance, the main function remains the same—giving riders control and clarity during every journey.
What to Consider in a Bike Computer
Technology Ecosystem
When choosing from budget-friendly cycling computers, it’s not just about the specs—it’s about the ecosystem you’re entering. I’ve found that even lower-cost devices, like the Coros Dura, can deliver impressive functionality when paired correctly. Many rely on companion apps and connect via Bluetooth or ANT+ to external sensors, offering a seamless experience much like a smartphone does within its brand environment.
While testing, I noticed GPS performance varies across computers, especially when comparing premium models like Wahoo, Garmin, and Hammerhead, which offer more control even outside the app. With the right technology, even under $100, the value can rival higher-end choices.
Screen Size
When I first started testing budget bike computers, I didn’t think a large screen would matter much—until I tried the Wahoo ELEMNT Ace. Like Test Editor Dan Chabanov, I quickly came to appreciate how much more convenient it made navigation and data viewing. The display on the ELEMNT Ace may seem oversized at first glance, but its size actually enhances visibility in bright light or fast-paced rides. As someone who values real-world usability, a well-designed display can easily elevate a budget device from decent to standout.
Navigation
One thing I always test first is navigation, because even a budget bike computer should have solid capabilities. While premium units like the $200 Garmin Edge 130 Plus or the high-end Hammerhead Karoo offer features like turn-by-turn directions, route changes, and even on-the-fly rerouting to the nearest coffee shop, I’ve seen lower-priced models surprise me with similar core functions. Some let you load downloadable routes through a companion app, and though they may have fewer settings, they’re still plenty for everyday rides if you’re focused on essentials over extras.
Battery Life
One thing I always check first on bike computers is battery life, and it’s no longer the concern it used to be. Many modern models can easily last a full week of riding without needing a recharge. I was particularly impressed with the Coros Dura, which not only promises a 120-hour runtime but also offers solar charging, something you’d expect from higher-end units like the Garmin Edge 1040. In my experience, the battery on the Dura is so robust that I couldn’t drain it even after several long rides, making the brand’s claim feel entirely plausible.
How We Selected the Best Bike Computers
After spending thousands of hours on our bikes—riding through familiar loops, mapping new routes, and prepping through focused training for local events and occasional competitions—our process of selecting the best picks came naturally.
As tech enthusiasts, we’ve used everything from wired cycling computers to GPS cycling computers, and we still track every ride using computers, watches, and even smartphones. Over the years, we’ve come to trust only the tools that perform consistently, whether we’re testing a new model or just out on a daily spin.
Basic Best Bike Computer under 100
CATEYE Urban Wireless Bike Computer
Pros:
- Even for new riders, it is simple to use.
- A great deal for the money
- Remarkably adept at covering the essentials without adding unnecessary stuff
Cons:
- Not as attractive as some of the more streamlined ones available
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CATEYE Padrone Wireless Bike Computer
Pros:
- It is very easy to read large numbers when riding at high speeds.
- It comes in a variety of colors to fit the look of your bike.
Cons:
- Although a little more costly at $54.95, it is still affordable for good performance.
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Garmin Speed Sensor 2
Pros:
- It’s easy to use, which makes it perfect for riders who want simple setups.
- Because it lacks a screen to draw attention, it is less likely to be stolen.
Cons:
- may not be suitable for everyone because it requires an app to sync and display ride data.
Price:
- Originally $39.99, now available for $31.37
If you’re just getting started or shopping on a tight budget, a basic bike computer can be a perfect fit. You can get a solid wireless option for around $35, and setup is usually simple—just a few zip ties, some buttons to enter your wheel size and time of day, and you’re ready to track your trip distance, speed, and distances.
Among my favorites are the Cateye models like the Urban Wireless and Padrone. The Urban Wireless is more affordable, while the Padrone offers a cleaner screen and more color options, which some riders appreciate. These computers are great for tracking basic ride data, and they run on one or two batteries.
For something even more modern, the Garmin Speed Sensor 2 is worth mentioning. It doesn’t have a traditional screen, but it connects easily to phones, iPads, and the Garmin Connect app, making it ideal for kids or riders with multiple bikes.
You can track your trips without staring at a screen, and while it doesn’t connect to every device at once, it integrates well for collecting ride data. Some of these bike computers can also pair with cadence sensors, heart rate monitors, power sensors, or even a taillight radar, offering room to grow your setup later.
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Phone App as Cycling Computer
If you’re not ready to invest in a cycling GPS computer that costs $200+, your phone can serve as a powerful alternative. By simply adding a bike mount and giving it a full charge, you can transform your device into a capable tool for ride stats and data.
Apps like Strava and Ride with GPS offer excellent route creation, and the turn-by-turn directions displayed on your phone screen make them incredibly useful. Personally, I find the Garmin Varia app easier to use through a phone than some cycling computers because of the better integration and smoother interface.
For deeper fitness tracking, iPhones can pair with the Apple Watch for heart rate readings, or you can use a Bluetooth heart rate monitor that will sync directly to your tracking app. This kind of setup easily rivals a basic computer or even some wireless bike computers.
Using your phone as a bike computer has some disadvantages:
You can use a lot of data if you’re not on an unlimited cell plan
Risk of overheating when left in direct sun for too long
May lead to exhausting your battery before the ride ends
High chance of damaging or completely losing your phone in a crash
Top Smartphone Cycling Apps:
Strava is great for casual rides and competing with friends on shared routes.
Ride with GPS is my go-to for navigation and route planning with reliable tracking.
Komoot stands out for its offline maps and detailed terrain insights.
Apple Watch adds value by pairing with your phone to give accurate fitness and ride tracking.
GPS Cycling Computers
Today, when people say bike computer, they often mean a GPS cycling computer. While there are different brands, models, and price points, the core job is the same—to use GPS technology to determine your position and track your ride with more accuracy and better battery life than your phone. Even affordable options under $100 can do a solid job of showing where you are and where you’re going, which makes them a strong pick for daily commuters or weekend riders alike.
Although smartwatches and GPS smartwatches are great for shorter city bike rides, they usually fall short on longer rides due to limited battery and smaller screens. I’ve used GPS-specific watches for casual rides, but when it comes to full-day outings, I always switch to a dedicated bike unit. A wrist-worn device just can’t compete with the stability and visibility a mounted GPS computer offers.
Key benefits of a GPS cycling computer (depending on brand and model):
More accurate GPS and navigation than a phone or smartwatch, especially during longer rides
Offers detailed mapping, real-time weather updates, and interval training support
Displays multiple data fields like power data, averages, and efficiencies for deeper insight
Tracks climbing data with climb profile, showing how much of the climb is left
Monitors battery charge and supports eBikes and electronic shifting features
Seamless Strava integration for viewing segments and syncing performance
Provides far more data than a basic bike computer, with everything synced efficiently
Popular GPS Bike Computers
Wahoo ELEMNT Bolt V2 GPS Bike Computer
Pros:
Great price considering the advanced features it offers
The LED lights around the screen are a standout for visibility and style
Cons:
Buttons can feel a bit finicky, especially with gloves on or during bumpy rides
Price:
$279.99 (Note: This is above the $100 budget but often compared for its value in higher-end models)
Garmin Edge® 130 Plus GPS Bike Computer
Pros:
A GPS bike computer with heart rate compatibility, perfect for entry-level training
Small size makes it easy to mount and carry
Offers just enough features to support intervals and basic fitness tracking
Cons:
A black and white screen may lack visual appeal for some users
Basic navigation only; may not meet advanced needs
Misses deeper insights like Garmin lead training analysis
Price:
Originally $199.99, currently available for $149.00 (still above $100, but often used as a benchmark model)
Garmin Edge 540, Compact GPS Cycling Computer with Button Controls, Targeted Adaptive Coaching, Advanced Navigation and More
Pros:
Offers more data than most cyclist will ever use, great for performance-focused riders
Built-in Wi-Fi enables faster transfers for syncing workouts, routes, and updates
Cons:
Lacks a touchscreen, which some riders may prefer for quicker navigation
Price:
Listed at $349.99, often available at a discount for around $307.59 (well above the $100 mark, but noted for comparison)
Garmin Edge 840 GPS Bike Computer
Pros:
Includes a responsive touchscreen and a larger screen than the 540 model, making it easier to view stats and maps on the go
Cons:
It costs $100 more than the 540 model, which may not justify the upgrade for just a slightly bigger screen and touchscreen
Price:
The regular price is $449.99, currently discounted to $425.50 (well above the under-$100 range but often compared for high-end reference)
Garmin Edge 1050 GPS Bike Computer
Pros:
Considered one of the best high-end GPS computers available today
Offers a large screen that makes it easy to view multiple data fields at once, ideal for performance-focused cyclists
Cons:
Very expensive, placing it well outside the budget range for most casual riders
Price:
Originally priced at $699.99, currently available for $599.99
Smartwatch vs. GPS Watch vs. GPS Cycling Computer
This portion truly gets people thinking, and because I have a lot to say, it might easily develop into a full-length article. Let’s just concentrate on the benefits and cons for the time being.
Smartwatches like the Apple Watch Series 8 are convenient and include a built-in heart rate monitor, but they often fall short in battery life during longer rides or workouts
GPS watches and dedicated GPS watches are better for endurance, offering reliable tracking, data, and basic navigation, with longer-lasting power
A GPS cycling computer still leads in terms of on-bike visibility and performance metrics like average power, intervals, and structured workouts, with added benefits like beeping or haptic feedback to guide your ride without needing to glance constantly at your device
If GPS, heart rate, and precise ride data are key for you, each option offers strengths—just choose based on what matters most to your routine
Bike Computer Reviews and Recommendations
My setup often changes month to month depending on what I’m testing, but in 2024 I’ve had hands-on experience with several models worth mentioning. For everyday tracking, I use the Garmin Speed Sensor 2 on my kids’ bikes, while the Padrone stays mounted on my city bike for simplicity.
When I want advanced data and radar support, I sync the Garmin 540 with the Varia rear radar, which gives me great situational awareness on busier roads. Through constant reviews, I’ve gathered reliable recommendations for different riding styles and budgets, helping cyclists find what works best for them.
Future Trends in Bike Computers
As the cycling tech world evolves, brands like Garmin, Wahoo, and Cateye continue to push out useful updates and improve core features in their bike computers. While some, like Bryton, attract attention for price-conscious riders, others like the Hammerhead Karoo 2, aim to innovate with smarter navigation. Even larger bike brands such as Specialized, Giant, Cannondale, and Trek (through Bontrager) have scaled back from full product lines, now focusing more on basic options and tighter integration like speed sensors built directly into the frame.
Looking ahead, integration with electric bikes and platforms like Bosch could be a major step, especially to help riders become more efficient. Companies are expected to refine form factor, minimize bulk, and improve display tech. With Apple slowly entering the space via the Apple Watch, we may see even more competition on the horizon. Meanwhile, Wahoo is navigating company changes after its sale and buyback, and it’ll be interesting to watch how they reposition.
Final Thoughts
The 2025 cycling season is the perfect time to explore the latest in bike computer tech, whether you’re aiming to improve your training or just want something simple and easy to use. With so many options—from the budget-friendly Cateye Velo Wireless to premium picks like the Garmin Edge 1040 Solar—it’s really about matching your wants and needs with your budget.
FAQs
Do I need a cycling computer?
There was a time when cyclists had to rely on cue sheets slipped into plastic holders attached to their handlebars just to follow routes. I remember doing a simple 10-mile ride to Brooklyn and feeling lost without some sort of guide. Now, I never leave home without my Wahoo, because let’s face it—if it’s not on Strava, it didn’t happen. But the bigger question is: do you really need a cycling computer?
Truthfully, you could use a smartphone or even a smartwatch. Many smartphone apps come packed with great navigation, detailed data, and tools for planning a custom route. Plus, a fitness watch or smartwatch can be a great data collector for workouts like run or swim, and often includes a heart monitor. It’s also true that apps work well and screens on phones are large and easy to view.
That said, a bike computer has its advantages. A smartphone’s battery capacity may only last a few hours with the screen always on, and you’ll probably need to charge it right after your ride. Also, if you lose cell connection or Wi-Fi connection, you may miss turn-by-turn help. Meanwhile, most cycling units come with pre-loaded maps, can store more maps, and still display your location and breadcrumb trail when offline.
Finally, in case of an accident, a phone mounted to the bars could get smashed—expensive to replace and risky. I’ve seen athletes go through this more than once. A solid cycling computer is made for these conditions, designed for rough use, and gives you the eyeline view of your metrics without extra distractions.
Do cycling computers work without Wi-Fi or cell service?
Yes, a bike computer with GPS works great even without Wi-Fi or mobile Internet. You don’t need cell service or a phone connection to follow your route or record ride data, especially in remote areas. Just make sure your planning is solid—download any custom maps or additional routes ahead of time. While offline, you won’t be able to upload or download new data, but everything on the device still functions as expected.
I bought a bike computer: What’s the most helpful accessory to go with it?
A motorcycle wrap can last three to seven years if it is properly cared for and maintained. The wrap’s longevity may be impacted by elements like solar exposure, severe weather, and normal wear and tear. To prolong its durability, it’s essential to clean the wrap regularly using mild soap and water, avoid using harsh chemicals or abrasive cleaners, and protect the bike from prolonged exposure to sunlight by parking it in a shaded area or using a cover.
