Garmin Edge® 1040 Solar vs Garmin Edge® 850: Spec Comparison
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When comparing the garmin edge 1040 solar vs edge 850, you are looking at two distinct Garmin cycling computers. Both devices offer GPS tracking and are designed for serious riders. The primary difference lies in their physical design and battery management. The Edge 1040 Solar features a larger screen and solar charging capability, while the Edge 850 is more compact with a touchscreen interface. You need to decide which form factor and power strategy fits your rides better.
Display Type
Not listed
Touchscreen, Color Display
Battery Life
Solar Charging Capability
Up to 12 hours (36 hours saver)
Dimensions
4.6 x 2.3 x 0.8 inches
2.1 x 3.6 x 0.7 inches
Weight
4.7 ounces
3.9 ounces
Control Type
Not listed
Touchscreen and buttons
Choose the first if
- You want extended battery life through solar charging during long rides.
- You prefer a larger display area for better map visibility.
- You do not mind a heavier device for added durability.
Choose the second if
- You want a compact, lighter device that weighs less than 4 ounces.
- You prefer using a touchscreen for easier navigation and control.
- You need specific battery hour ratings for planning your rides.
Verdict
Choose the Edge 1040 Solar if you prioritize solar charging and a larger screen for extended adventures. The Edge 850 is the better choice if you value a compact form factor, touchscreen interface, and precise battery life estimates. Both devices provide essential GPS tracking for cycling.
Edge 1040 Solar vs Edge 850 Specs
Physical Dimensions
Edge: Garmin Edge 1040 Solar
The Garmin Edge 1040 Solar is a larger device, measuring 4.6 inches in width and 2.3 inches in length. Its case stands 0.8 inches thick. The Edge 850 is significantly more compact. It measures 2.1 inches wide and 3.6 inches long. The 850 is also thinner at 0.7 inches. You will notice the size difference immediately. The 1040 Solar offers a bigger screen real estate for data. The 850 fits smaller hands and handles better. Choose the 1040 Solar if you want a bigger display. Pick the 850 for a smaller, lighter profile on the handlebars.
Weight
Edge: Garmin Edge 850 GPS Cycling Computer
Weight matters for long rides where every ounce counts. The Edge 1040 Solar weighs 4.7 ounces. The Edge 850 is lighter at 3.9 ounces. This difference is nearly an ounce. You might not feel it on short trips. It adds up during multi-day events. The 850 feels more nimble in your hand. The 1040 Solar feels more substantial. If you prioritize a light build, the 850 wins. If you prefer a solid feel, the 1040 Solar is fine. The weight difference is clear in the specs.
Battery Life
Edge: Garmin Edge 1040 Solar
Battery performance varies by usage. The Edge 850 provides up to 12 hours in demanding use. It extends to 36 hours in battery saver mode. The Edge 1040 Solar data does not list specific hours. It highlights solar charging capability instead. This means the 1040 Solar can extend life indefinitely in sunlight. The 850 relies on internal capacity. You need to charge the 850 regularly. The 1040 Solar offers a different approach to power. Solar charging helps on long rides. The 850 has known limits.
Display Type
Edge: Garmin Edge 850 GPS Cycling Computer
The Edge 850 features a vivid color display with touchscreen controls. You can swipe and tap to navigate menus. It also includes physical buttons for backup. The Edge 1040 Solar data does not specify the display type. It only lists general connectivity and features. We assume it has a color screen. However, the 850 explicitly mentions touch functionality. This changes how you interact with the device. Touchscreens are intuitive. Buttons are reliable in rain. The 850 offers both. The 1040 Solar specs are less detailed here.
Advanced Features
Edge: Garmin Edge 850 GPS Cycling Computer
The Edge 850 lists many advanced features. It includes multi-band GPS for accuracy. It offers smart fueling alerts based on fitness. It has preloaded maps for road and trails. It includes a built-in speaker for alerts. The Edge 1040 Solar data only lists solar charging and GPS. It does not mention maps, speakers, or fueling alerts. You get the core tracking with the 1040 Solar. The 850 provides a richer feature set. It is better for navigation and safety. The 1040 Solar is more basic in specs.
Which Garmin Edge fits your ride
Long-distance riders needing max range
Our pick: Garmin Edge 1040 Solar
The Edge 1040 Solar includes solar charging capability. This feature extends battery life during outdoor activities. You get more time on the bike without worrying about power. The larger 4.6-inch width also provides ample screen space for viewing data over long durations.
Riders wanting compact lightweight design
Our pick: Garmin Edge 850 GPS Cycling Computer
The Edge 850 is significantly lighter at 3.9 ounces. Its compact 2.1-inch width fits smaller handlebars better. You get a device that is less intrusive on the bike. The smaller size reduces wind resistance and improves comfort during high-speed descents or tight group rides.
Users preferring touch interface controls
Our pick: Garmin Edge 850 GPS Cycling Computer
The Edge 850 features a vivid color touchscreen. You can navigate menus and maps with simple taps. This interface offers a modern feel compared to button-only devices. The combination of touchscreen and physical buttons allows for flexible control in various weather conditions or while wearing gloves.
Garmin Edge 1040 Solar
Best for: Sunny long-distance rides needing solar charging
- Connectivity
- GPS
- Features
- Solar Charging
- Color
- Black
- Dimensions
- 2.3 × 4.6 × 0.8 inches
- Weight
- 4.7 ounces
The Garmin Edge 1040 Solar is a black GPS cycling computer with solar charging capability. It measures 4.6 inches wide, 2.3 inches long, and 0.8 inches thick. The unit weighs 4.7 ounces. You get a vivid color display and dedicated GPS connectivity for route tracking. This model suits riders who want extended battery life through solar assistance during outdoor rides.
- Solar charging capability extends battery life
- Dedicated GPS connectivity for accurate tracking
- Vivid color display for clear data
- Compact dimensions at 4.6 by 2.3 inches
- Heavier build at 4.7 ounces compared to lighter competitors
- Larger width of 4.6 inches may not fit smaller handlebars
- You ride frequently in sunny conditions to maximize solar charging
- You prefer a larger display for easier data reading
- You need reliable GPS tracking for long-distance routes
- You prioritize the lightest possible weight for racing
- You need a compact unit for very narrow handlebars
- You ride primarily in areas with little sunlight
Verdict: Garmin Edge 1040 Solar GPS Bike Computer fits riders who value solar charging and a larger display. You get reliable GPS tracking and a vivid screen, though the 4.7-ounce weight and 4.6-inch width may be too bulky for some setups.
Garmin Edge 850 GPS Cycling Computer
Best for: cyclists needing precise GPS and tactile controls
- Control Type
- Touchscreen and buttons
- Battery Life
- Up to 12 hours (36 hours saver)
- Satellite Positioning
- Multi-band GPS
- Map Navigation
- Preloaded maps
- Display Type
- Touchscreen, Color Display
- Activity
- Training, Cycling
The Garmin Edge 850 is a compact GPS cycling computer featuring a vivid color touchscreen and physical button controls. It offers multi-band GPS for precise tracking and up to 12 hours of battery life in demanding use, extending to 36 hours in saver mode. This model suits riders who prefer tactile controls alongside touch input and need reliable navigation with preloaded maps for road and trail riding.
- Multi-band GPS with automatic 5 Hz recording for superior accuracy
- Up to 12 hours battery life, or 36 hours in saver mode
- Vivid color touchscreen combined with button controls for easy operation
- Preloaded maps for road, gravel, and trails including Forksight mode
- Battery life is limited to 12 hours in demanding use cases
- Heavier at 3.9 ounces compared to lighter alternatives
- Standard size may be bulkier for riders preferring minimal profiles
- You want tactile button controls alongside a touchscreen
- You ride for up to 12 hours in demanding conditions
- You need multi-band GPS accuracy on technical trails
- You require solar charging for extended multi-day trips
- You prefer a lighter device under 3.9 ounces
- You need battery life exceeding 12 hours without saver mode
Verdict: The Garmin Edge 850 Compact GPS Bike Computer fits riders who value precise multi-band GPS tracking and the reliability of physical buttons during intense rides. It is an ideal tool for cyclists who prioritize battery efficiency and detailed map navigation over extended solar charging capabilities.
Specifications side by side
| Spec | Garmin Edge 1040 Solar | Garmin Edge 850 GPS Cycling Computer |
|---|---|---|
| Control Type | – | Touchscreen and buttons |
| Battery Life | – | Up to 12 hours (36 hours saver) |
| Satellite Positioning | – | Multi-band GPS |
| Map Navigation | – | Preloaded maps |
| Connectivity | GPS | GPS |
| Display Type | – | Touchscreen, Color Display |
| Features | Solar Charging | – |
| Activity | – | Training, Cycling |
| Color | Black | Black |
| Dimensions | 2.3 × 4.6 × 0.8 inches | 0.7 × 2.1 × 3.6 inches |
| Weight | 4.7 ounces | 3.9 ounces |
| Size | One Size | Standard |
| Model | Edge 1040 Solar | 010-03023-00 |
Frequently asked questions
Does the Garmin Edge 1040 Solar have solar charging?
Yes, the Garmin Edge 1040 Solar includes solar charging. This feature helps extend battery life during sunny outdoor rides. You get more time on the bike without needing to recharge as often. The Edge 850 does not list solar charging in its specifications. It focuses on standard battery efficiency instead.
Which Garmin Edge is lighter, 1040 Solar or 850?
The Garmin Edge 850 is lighter. It weighs 3.9 ounces. The Edge 1040 Solar weighs 4.7 ounces. The difference is 0.8 ounces. If you prefer a lighter device for your handlebars, the Edge 850 is the better choice based on weight specifications.
What is the difference in display size between the two?
The Edge 1040 Solar is wider at 4.6 inches. The Edge 850 is narrower at 2.1 inches. The 1040 Solar also has a larger length of 2.3 inches compared to the 850. The 850 is taller at 3.6 inches but much thinner at 0.7 inches.
Does the Garmin Edge 850 have a touchscreen?
Yes, the Garmin Edge 850 features a touchscreen. It also includes a color display. The Edge 1040 Solar does not list touchscreen capability in its attributes. Both devices offer color displays for clear navigation and data viewing during your rides.
Which device is better for intense rides requiring physical buttons?
The Edge 850 is designed for riders who value tactile controls. It relies on physical buttons for reliability during intense rides. The 1040 Solar does not mention physical buttons in its specs. If you prefer tactile feedback over touch inputs, the Edge 850 fits your needs.
Are both devices compatible with GPS tracking?
Yes, both devices support GPS connectivity. The Garmin Edge 1040 Solar lists GPS as a key connectivity feature. The Edge 850 also includes GPS tracking. You can rely on either device for accurate location data and route navigation during your cycling activities.
Is the Edge 1040 Solar suitable for long-distance rides?
Yes, the Edge 1040 Solar is ideal for long-distance rides. Its solar charging capability extends battery life in sunny conditions. The larger display also aids in map navigation over long periods. You get reliable tracking and visibility for extended outdoor cycling sessions.
Which Garmin Edge is more compact for small handlebars?
The Garmin Edge 850 is more compact. Its width is only 2.1 inches. The Edge 1040 Solar is 4.6 inches wide. The 850 is also thinner at 0.7 inches. If you have limited space on your handlebars, the Edge 850 fits better.
See also
- Garmin Edge® 1040 Alternatives: 6 Similar Picks Compared
- Looking Beyond the Magene C606 Pro GPS Bike? 6 Alternatives Worth a Look
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- Garmin vs Bryton Bike Computers: Which Brand Fits You?
- 6 Best Alternatives to the Garmin Edge® 550 (2026)