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| The Garmin Edge Explore 3 series is IPX7 rated against water ingress. |
Garmin has just dropped its latest cycling computers, and they're packing some serious features without the premium price tag. The new Edge Explore 3 series replaces the popular Edge Explore 2 and brings some impressive upgrades that should catch the attention of cyclists looking for smart navigation without breaking the bank.
What's New with the Edge Explore 3?
The biggest headline here is the battery life—up to 48 hours when you enable battery saver mode. That's a massive improvement for long-distance riders and bikepackers who don't want to worry about their device dying mid-journey.
Garmin has also doubled the built-in storage from 16GB to 32GB, giving you plenty of room for maps and routes. Speaking of maps, the Edge Explore 3 now supports Wi-Fi map management, making it easier than ever to update and download maps without plugging into a computer.
The display has gotten some love too. The 3-inch TFT screen (360 x 640 pixels) now features an ambient light sensor that automatically adjusts brightness, plus a built-in gyroscope for improved accuracy. Real-time weather maps are also on board, so you can plan your rides around incoming storms.
Voice Control and Messaging Come at a Premium
Here's where things get interesting. The standard Edge Explore 3 doesn't include voice functionality. If you want hands-free voice control and voice messaging via Garmin Messenger, you'll need to step up to the Edge Explore 3 Plus, which adds a built-in microphone and speaker.
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| Garmin claims that the Edge Explore 3 and Edge Explore 3 Plus deliver up to 16 and 14 hours of battery life in 'demanding use'. |
Pricing and Availability
The Edge Explore 3 starts at $399 in the US, £349 in the UK, and €399 in the Eurozone. If you want those voice features, the Edge Explore 3 Plus will set you back $499, £429, or €499.
Pre-orders open on October 23 across North America and Oceania, while European cyclists will need to wait until November 3. For those ready to grab one, you can check availability on Amazon once orders go live.
Is It Worth It?
At this price point, the Edge Explore 3 series sits comfortably in the mid-range GPS cycling computer market. The 48-hour battery life, expanded storage, and Wi-Fi map management make it a solid choice for touring cyclists and commuters alike. The voice control feature on the Plus model is a nice touch for those who want to keep their hands on the bars, though it does add a significant premium.
For riders who've been eyeing the Edge Explore 2 but wanted more battery life and modern features, the Edge Explore 3 series looks like a worthy upgrade. Just decide whether voice control is worth that extra $100 before you commit.
Garmin continues to dominate the cycling computer space, and the Edge Explore 3 series proves you don't need to spend a fortune to get premium navigation features. Whether you're a weekend warrior or a dedicated touring cyclist, these new devices deserve a spot on your shortlist.