How to choose a GPS watch

The GPS watch watch is a practical tool for training and performance monitoring. Its use may be preferable to that of a GPS computer for triathletes and cyclists who like to mix it up with other sports, such as running or swimming. Compared to conventional sports watches and activity bracelets, the GPS watch adds, by definition, a GPS function that enables you to collect more precise data and record the trace of an outing, to better analyze your effort, gauge your form and progress.

THE DIFFERENT FEATURES OF GPS WATCHES

The market for GPS cycling watches is dominated by long-established brands such as Garmin and Polar, which offer a wide range of products to suit all levels of cycling and all expectations. The richness of features makes all the difference, such as connectivity, battery life, additional sensors (cardio, cadence, speed) included or not... The range and price differences are such that a few words of advice are in order.

ALL YOU NEED TO KNOW ABOUT GPS WATCHES

It's not hard to understand that GPS watches have come a long way in recent years, thanks to advances in miniaturization! While some models still use an external box to pick up the GPS signal, most of today's models directly incorporate a GPS (Global Positioning System) chip. So, when the function is activated, the cyclist is located by his or her device, which cross-references the information provided by the GPS system's 30 or so satellites. For even greater positioning accuracy and faster signal acquisition, some GPS units also receive information from the Russian Glonass system and, more recently, from the European Galileo system (although this network is not yet 100% operational), in addition to the American GPS system.

Among the essential information provided live on the watch's display, we systematically include the speedspeed distance covered or thealtitude. It should be noted that top-of-the-range models prefer a barometric sensor - which is more accurate - to GPS data, to provide altimetry information (altitude, difference in altitude, percentage of slope...).

THE DIFFERENT TYPES OF GPS WATCHES

There are two main types of GPS watches:

GPS watches with optical cardio sensor

These incorporate several LEDs and an optical sensor, visible on the inner surface behind the screen. Placed firmly on the arm, slightly above the wrist, these watches measure heart rate by assessing blood flow in the vessels beneath the skin. Easier to wear as they don't require a belt, these watches nevertheless provide data that is often less accurate than that recorded with a cardio belt, which is preferable for intensive training. However, these watches with integrated optical cardio can still be paired with a cardio belt.

GPS watches without optical cardio sensor

With these models, heart rate measurement requires the use of a cardio belt. Some models come with one, but if not, you need to choose a belt with a communication standard (Bluetooth, ANT+) compatible with your GPS watch.

FUNCTIONALITIES

GPS watches are connected objects and generally multi-sport, not just for cyclists and mountain bikers, but for all-rounders like triathletes. Some models are well adapted to the needs of the latter, with training profiles dedicated to swimming, cycling and running, with specific performance indicators to help you progress in each discipline.

For cyclists in particular, a GPS watch can be useful when paired with third-party training accessories, which are sometimes supplied with it, but not usually. A cardio belta speed and/or cadence sensor or even a power sensor are just some of the tools that can be used to enrich the data provided for performance-oriented training.

It should be noted that, while all GPS watches can be paired with a cardio belt, the same cannot be said of cadence or power sensors, which most entry-level models cannot support.

Basic information

Regardless of the basic information (time, calendar, etc.) offered by all GPS watches, each model includes speed, distance and altitude data collected with the GPS signal.

All GPS watches now also include a daily activity tracker, which provides information on sleep quality, number of steps taken, calories burned during the day, level of recovery... All useful information for monitoring your fitness level and setting goals in line with your current level of fitness.

Sports profiles

As GPS watches are designed for multi-sport use, they naturally offer different sports profiles, which become more and more complete as you move up the range. Most watches offer the three major sports of cycling, running and swimming. Some top-of-the-range watches allow you to create ultra-specific profiles with personalized data for each sport (cycling, mountain biking, paddle, weight training...).

When used with dedicated sensors, a GPS watch can provide cyclists with information on pedaling cadence and power. For swimming and running, top-of-the-range GPS watches can measure sport-specific metrics such as movement frequency (swimming), ground contact time and vertical oscillation (running).

ANT+, Bluetooth compatibility

Not all GPS watches are created equal when it comes to compatibility with third-party accessories and data transfer. Some only accept a Bluetooth and USB connection, while others can connect via Bluetooth, ANT+ and Wifi. This is an important consideration when it comes to finding a GPS watch that's compatible with the training accessories you already own (cardio belt, various sensors).

Thanks to their USB cable or Wifi connection, GPS watches can also be used to download all the data recorded during a workout to your smartphone/computer, for subsequent analysis using performance-tracking applications, whether branded (Polar Flow, Garmin Connect...) or ultra-popular, such as Strava or Training Peaks.

Navigation

It goes without saying that GPS watches should not be expected to guide the cyclist in the same way as a car GPS or even a bike GPS computer. In fact, models with background maps are few and far between, and very expensive.

Most of the time, a GPS watch's navigation function is limited to following a pre-recorded track, which is already very useful for cycling and mountain biking, to avoid getting lost, and to test your progress on a known route! A return-to-start function, with information on the distance remaining to be covered, is also often available.

WHICH GPS WATCH IS RIGHT FOR ME?

The more advanced a watch is, the more complex it can be to use, given the number of functions and settings it offers. So think carefully about which functions you really need, and will use most often, and choose your GPS watch accordingly. The watch's ergonomics are also very important in terms of ease of use and handling. Some models feature a color screen and/or touchscreen, offering a better user experience.

Triathletes and swimmers should obviously prefer waterproof models! Finally, if you're used to long journeys, check the watch's autonomy and memory capacity. The GPS function is particularly memory- and power-hungry, and GPS watches discharge much faster than conventional watches.