🏃 Garmin Forerunner 50 Sports Watch: Heart Rate Monitor & USB ANT Stick Included Review

I bought this to replace my old heart rate monitor. I like the richness of the watch's features compared to my old watch which simply showed my heart rate. The only downside I've found so far is that the heart rate doesn't seem to be captured by the gym's cardio machines like my old monitor did. Not critical, but nice to see on the display instead of constantly checking the clock.

Everything seemed fine until the battery died after a few months. Search the internet for "Garmin 50 Battery Replacement". You will quickly find that this is not trivial. I read several guides and tried it: it seemed pretty easy, but then I found a watch with a blank screen. So I would start over. This has happened a few times and as far as I know Garmin will only offer one replacement (so you can practice). Stay away from this product.

This was a steal at $50. The watch is easy to use and downloading to a computer is even easier with the ANT USB stick. The heart rate monitor is very useful. I use it for both running and mountain biking. I'm still trying to get the belt tension right, but I barely move when I run, but a little when I mountain bike because I maneuver a lot. The only downside is that the storage on the watch is minimal, but those who need more can simply purchase a higher-end Garmin model. For me, this simple…

I hate that. (Hate is a pretty strong word for this review). i want it to work This only works a few times. Most of the time it resets itself or doesn't measure heart rate or cadence. Just Start is a long push button memory delusion combo. This is not a simple heart rate monitor. Buy the best model. This one is bad. I even sent it back for repair and it came back as "working". With "Repair" the situation is even worse. I won't even try to resell it. I feel like I'm selling something broken.

Pros: * The most affordable heart rate monitor that transfers exercise data to a computer. * Very comfortable watch for everyday use - very light, excellent strap. * Excellent display - easy to read. * Easy to use. .Cons: * HR signal is not compatible with fitness equipment (does not send real-time signal to elliptical trainer/stepper/treadmill) such as Polar and Nike. * Once the battery runs out, you will be in trouble. Took it to a jeweler as suggested in the instructions but they didn't…

I already have a Forerunner 305 watch and I like it aside from the size of the watch when running. I was considering buying a new 405, but since I already had a pedometer and really enjoyed the 305's larger unit (read as "big screen") while cycling, I decided to upgrade my current system with a Garmin add sensor. 50. The 305's GPS capability is good, but while I prefer to explore on a road bike, I also tend to hit the same trails over and over again when running, so the GPS capabilities aren't…