Bought this HRM 600 with hopes of using my garmin 530 to stream my heart rate live to ensure I stayed in specific zones during training rides, but after more than 6 attempts with my garmin 530 and 10 attempts to use while on trainer streaming to my iPad separately, I have failed to see the data properly. (It so small and insignificant on garmin connect app when it does actually work and I have yet to see it on the data screen on my garmin 530 despite many attempts following garmin instructions) It hasn’t worked for my intended use and I’m disappointed. If all you need is hindsight heart rate data about a workout you start on your phone and stop after then review it is great otherwise it’s not of any use.
This was purchased as a replacement for an HRM-PRO that started to exhibit the same failure mode every Garmin strap I've ever had eventually has -- it posts up heart rate readings at the start of an activity that are literally impossible (e.g. 220) and in a short time, usually within a minute or less, it settles down and then reads correctly. Its not the strap and washing (or lack thereof); the issue goes back to the original "button" design and I suspect its salt contamination that gets past the seals and into the electronics. Usually in 2-3 years it starts doing it and thus I have to replace it.
Anyway, hopefully this one is improved. It has both "open" and "secure" BLE pairing; be aware that if you're on a Fenix it may SAY it didn't connect properly but it in fact did pair -- if that happens to you shut the watch off and turn it back on and it should show up in the sensor list. Once I got past that it works as expected. I do like the charging (buy and use a port cover to reduce the risk of the above fault happening) rather than dry battery and that the strap itself can be detached and washed (and replaced when it wears out); we'll see how that plays over time.
I don't swim nor does the "stand-alone" activity things it can do with the phone mean much to me, but for someone who DOES swim it will obviously matter.
Oh, and the blinky-light, which is otherwise visible under clothing, can be toggled to "off after 2 minutes" if you pair it with Connect and not just the watch, which took me a bit to find and removes the one thing I'd otherwise find very annoying.
Overall thus far (its only been a couple of weeks) its a fitting replacement for the older models.
I've been using Garmin products for years and this HRM is a must have addition to any compatible watch or bike computer. With the convenience of having a rechargeable battery and continuous tracking, it gives you the comfort to know that you can keep your mind on your race or training rather than worrying if this product isn't tracking your every move. If you're looking for a HRM with the added features the HRM 600 gives than this is the monitor you need to be racing or training with.
I like HRM 600 . It connects to my Garmin edge seamlessly and offers reliable and consistent reading during my use. The HRM also offer a great battery life and it is also rechargeable. Connected to Garmin Connect app. You monitor the battery charge remaining on the device after use .