Garmin Forerunner 201

*Est. $120
Reviewed
July 2008
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Garmin Forerunner 201

Pros
  • Uses GPS to measure distance
  • Measures calories burned, speed and pace
  • Workout data can be downloaded to your computer
  • Water resistant
Cons
  • Expensive
  • Device does not count steps
  • Device can lose a signal due to foliage or buildings
 
 
Where to Buy
 
 
 

Although it is not a pedometer because it doesn't count steps, reviewers say that the Garmin Forerunner 201 is one of the most accurate and least expensive GPS watches available. The Garmin Forerunner 201 uses GPS technology to measure distance, speed, pace and calories burned. The Garmin Forerunner 201 is water-resistant, has a rechargeable lithium battery that lasts about 15 hours and connects with your computer so you can upload your daily workout data. Some users say that the GPS signal can be lost under foliage or around buildings.

The one expert review for the Garmin Forerunner 201 is from Pedometer.com, which appears to do some testing of its own, as well as using independent research studies to compare pedometers for accuracy and reliability. Nearly 350 owners rave about the Garmin Forerunner 201 at Amazon.com. We found additional owner reviews at Epinions.com.

Where To Buy
 
 
Garmin Forerunner 201 Waterproof Running GPS

 (358 reviews)
Buy new: $149.99   5 Used & new from $99.95

 
 
 

Our Sources

1. Pedometers.com

The five GPS systems reviewed here get an overall rating, plus scores for accuracy and value. The Garmin Forerunner 201 is called "drastically less expensive" than the other GPS watches and rates high in accuracy. The editors say that the only feature missing is a heart-rate monitor.

Review: GPS vs. SDM Reviews, Editors of Pedometers.com, 2004

2. Amazon.com

More than 300 owners review the Garmin Forerunner 201, giving it above-average overall ratings. The only real complaint is that at times the GPS technology loses its signal when the user passes through dense foliage or near tall buildings.

Review: Garmin Forerunner 201 Wrist-Mounted GPS Fitness Computer, Contributors to Amazon.com

3. Epinions.com

Forty owners rate the Garmin Forerunner 201, giving it very good reviews. Owners say it is accurate, easy to use and lightweight, although some complain about the occasional signal loss. A few owners also feel that the workout analysis software needs improvement.

Review: Garmin Forerunner 201 Handheld GPS Receiver, Contributors to Epinions.com

Pedometers Runners Up:

New-Lifestyles NL-2000 Accelerometer *Est. $70

4 picks including: About.com, Medicine & Science in Sports & Exercise…

Yamax Digi-Walker SW-701 *Est. $30

3 picks by top review sites.

     
   
 
 
 
     
 
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