Customer reviews from Garmin
Garmin - Edge 1050 3.5" GPS Bike Computer - Black
Average customer rating
4.4
(458 Reviews)
Rating breakdown 458 reviews
5 Stars
314
4 Stars
77
3 Stars
32
2 Stars
13
1 Star
22
Customer Reviews for Garmin - Edge 1050 3.5" GPS Bike Computer - Black
Customer Rating
2
1050 Garmin
on July 4, 2025
Posted by: Anonymous
Garmin Edge 1050: A Bright Idea That Falls Flat (Literally)
As a long-time Garmin user, I had high hopes for the Edge 1050, expecting an evolution from the reliable 1030. While it's true that everything works and functions perfectly in terms of its core features, the critical flaw lies in its display – or lack thereof, in real-world conditions.
Garmin's decision to switch from the reflective screen of the 1030 to a new display technology on the 1050 is a massive misstep. In direct sunlight, the screen becomes completely unreadable. It's as if they've adopted an "iPhone concept" for the display, leading to the same frustrating inability to see anything when the sun hits it. To make matters worse, there's a baffling "timeout" feature for the backlight that, when triggered in sunlight, plunges the screen into total blackness, rendering it utterly useless. This isn't just an inconvenience; it's a significant safety concern when you can't see your navigation or data.
Beyond the screen, the physical design also feels like a downgrade. When the Garmin is laying flat on the computer, it no longer has the crisp, readable angle that the reflective backing of the 1030 provided. This makes an already unreadable screen even harder to glimpse. And finally, at a hefty 161 grams, the 1050 feels like the clunkiest and heaviest object on my bike.
In summary, while the underlying functionality of the Edge 1050 is sound, the critical issues with screen visibility in sunlight, the poor viewing angle, and the increased weight make this a disappointing upgrade. Garmin needs to revisit its display technology and design philosophy for outdoor use.
As a long-time Garmin user, I had high hopes for the Edge 1050, expecting an evolution from the reliable 1030. While it's true that everything works and functions perfectly in terms of its core features, the critical flaw lies in its display – or lack thereof, in real-world conditions.
Garmin's decision to switch from the reflective screen of the 1030 to a new display technology on the 1050 is a massive misstep. In direct sunlight, the screen becomes completely unreadable. It's as if they've adopted an "iPhone concept" for the display, leading to the same frustrating inability to see anything when the sun hits it. To make matters worse, there's a baffling "timeout" feature for the backlight that, when triggered in sunlight, plunges the screen into total blackness, rendering it utterly useless. This isn't just an inconvenience; it's a significant safety concern when you can't see your navigation or data.
Beyond the screen, the physical design also feels like a downgrade. When the Garmin is laying flat on the computer, it no longer has the crisp, readable angle that the reflective backing of the 1030 provided. This makes an already unreadable screen even harder to glimpse. And finally, at a hefty 161 grams, the 1050 feels like the clunkiest and heaviest object on my bike.
In summary, while the underlying functionality of the Edge 1050 is sound, the critical issues with screen visibility in sunlight, the poor viewing angle, and the increased weight make this a disappointing upgrade. Garmin needs to revisit its display technology and design philosophy for outdoor use.
Written by a customer while visiting Garmin
Customer Rating
5
Outstanding in Every Way
on July 4, 2025
Posted by: ajma21
I have had the Edge 1050 for about a month and I thoroughly enjoy it. The only downside is that I can’t imagine going back to a smaller less visible unit now.
Written by a customer while visiting Garmin
Customer Rating
5
great computer!
on July 3, 2025
Posted by: Chad M
has exceeded all of my expectations! I use this for road and gravel cycling. I had gone from nothing to this and it is amazing for tracking my rides, training and navigation. I have been able to integrate with my Di2 for a hands free experience. having gone from nothing to this it can be used for any rider.
Written by a customer while visiting ExpertVoice.com
Customer Rating
5
Nice map routing
on July 1, 2025
Posted by: Instructormoore
Downloaded some maps from the Garmin Connect website and the first ride was perfect. Took us on the right track and didn't miss a turn. Responsive and quick to direct after making a turn.
Written by a customer while visiting Garmin
Customer Rating
5
on June 30, 2025
Posted by: William P
Awesome screen, love the updated interface and USB-C charging, good battery life. It's large, so likley better use case for road and gravel vs MTB given mounting location.
Written by a customer while visiting ExpertVoice.com
Customer Rating
5
Best Garmin Cycling Unit Ever
on June 30, 2025
Posted by: Anonymous
I have used multiple Garmin cycling computers over the past 2 decades and the 1050 is Definitely the best. Great screen, easy migration of settings from my 1030, excellent battery life, super screen clarity and the list goes on. Only downside, the Manual that came with it is very weak, extremely small type and basically does not cover much. Have to go online to get digital copy. Jim Remillard, Cio, CA
Written by a customer while visiting Garmin
Customer Rating
5
Use
on June 25, 2025
Posted by: CWhite
Easy to figure out. Nice features. I like how you can have 4 screens at your fingertip while riding.
Written by a customer while visiting Garmin
Customer Rating
5
The best Garmin I’ve ever owned
on June 24, 2025
Posted by: Erpaor
I’ve been a Garmin user for years. I started with the Edge 520, then moved to the 830 (used it for five years and absolutely loved it), but the 1050 is simply next level.
The large screen is phenomenal, especially for those of us over 40 who appreciate bigger numbers and better visibility. The high-resolution display makes everything crystal clear and easy to read on the move.
I really appreciate the new ability to report road hazards, which is a great feature for the cycling community.
The integration with the UT800 light and RTL515 radar is excellent — seamless and reliable, like a true safety ecosystem.
I was a bit concerned about the size and weight, but it’s surprisingly light. It reminds me of a blend between a modern high-end BlackBerry and those old-school Garmin Nuvi car GPS units from 20 years ago — in the best possible way.
From my days using Garmin in Colombia, now in the U.S., and soon in the U.K., I’ve always trusted Garmin. The ecosystem is solid — I also use the Index S2 scale and a Forerunner 45 (though I’ll admit the Forerunner is a bit underpowered for deeper data syncing in Garmin Connect — that web interface could definitely use a refresh, it’s feeling a bit outdated).
Overall: absolutely excellent. Best cycling computer I’ve used.
Written by a customer while visiting Garmin