I have both, and a 1030. Have ridden a lot with the 1030. The Hammerhead 2 is by far my favorite. Garmin is okay, but I love the karoo. I would advise buying the karoo, even over a 1030
Thank you so much for the detailed review. One small correction: There is a huge difference in the Varia implementation. The Garmin lets you pair the Varia as an ANT+ light, not just a radar. Meaning that on longer rides, I can turn off my Varia LED through my Garmin while continuing to receive radar information for far better battery life. That is impossible to do without the Garmin (if you push the buttons on the Varia itself until the LED turns off, the radar turns off too). That feature alone made me choose the 830 over the Karoo 2, which I was really excited about. I really appreciate the FTP and VO2 Max estimates and the IQ apps. As someone without Di2, I found an IQ Connect data field that estimates and graphically displays what gears my bike is using by using my speed and cadence.
Did the Karoo update just fix the Varia issue in today's update? Their site says "When paired as both a radar and a light, your Varia taillight will now stay connected to Karoo as a radar even when the light is turned off. " I like that they're committed to feature updates. It reminds me of early Android development and rooting phones, but I know it's not for everyone.
Just switched from the 830 to the K2. I don’t use a lot of features from the Garmin, instead as you mentioned the so much better display and a good alternative for Garmin Connect. My experience with the K2 is great. Glad I was able to get one (just within 2-3 days of shipping!) Lap feature is already on the K2 btw.
@@ceen3237 As you probably have seen in the video the touchscreen won’t work. That’s not a big deal for me, because I don’t ride in the rain. If you do by surprise, the K2 at least has 4 physical buttons which you also can use to lock the touchscreen from getting input. You can of course switch between data screens with the buttons while the touchscreen is locked.
I was waiting for a comparison of these two. I was so close to buying the Karoo2. Looks like the garmin is a bit more solid albeit not without flaws. Thank you for helping me make the final decision.
and what did you choose? im struggling to make a decision, i need navi that would work deep in forests but i would really want to see some detailed data (laps etc)
After months of using K2, can you tell how long the battery used to last? How do you sync your ended routes? I’ve been told that a wifi connection or a sim in the K2 is needed. Do you use live tracking? Thanks?
Depends on how high you run the screen brightness. I run it at 90% and I can get 7 hours. Yes you need wifi for tracking and syncing routes, but I think it syncs the routes better than garmin
Are you using the Karoo Companion app when you demonstrate how to create and import a route? Because the only thing I can do with that app is pair my phone for on road notifications...
I have an Edge 1000 (which I hate because it has been really buggy) and a K1 which I really like and has been very stable. I was surprised at the water test result on the K2. Makes me take a pause when considering if I want a K2 for my new computer or go with the 1030. I guess I will wait for that video, comparing the 1030 to the K2. Great work! Thanks for putting together a great channel.
@@tonywebster9087 Mine kept freezing or I would start a ride with everything looking normal and then about a mile later you realize that it's not tracking the ride. Garmin sent me a replacement unit and it did exactly the same things.
I'm watching this with interest. Great detailed review, and honest. I'm currently an 830 user, but totalled it yesterday in a MTB crash. A couple of points for you to note if not all ready mentioned. a) you can create route in the phone app by going into 'Training', and 'Courses', you can create a route in 'Course Creator'. I used this as my main route creator until I switched to Komoot. b) I find the mount to be very strong, so much so, in my crash, the bracket mount plate is still attached to the 830 when it got smashed (its a 3rd party Syncros stem mount system). Being UK based, being able to use the units in rain is a significant selling point, along with battery life.
I use a 530… and when I’m lost, the maps are fast enough. When I ride, I want to experience the ride, with a little help when needed; I don’t need or want to watch my computer’s screen.
Great video! I bought the K2 because I was super annoyed by the the screen of my previous edge 1030 while navigating. I missed some turns because of it and because of the slow map rotation you will find out far too late. Still the K2 is buggy indeed and my iPhone 12 keeps disconnecting during the ride. They said that would be fixed in the last update but it has not. I do not use all the fancy features of the Garmin but I hope they will get the bugs out of the K2 soon. Greetings, from the Netherlands. Keep up the great videos.
All In One Video 👍👍 Loved It , now I don't have to search different video because this video had all the things. •Unboxing •Quick setup •Water test •Outdoor sunlight test •Device comparison
I have the 1030 plus and the karoo1. I love karoo's screen and navigation, its speed in passing screens and redrawing the map, but it lacks a lot of functions for workouts, compatibility with garmin remote control, Tyrewiz sensors, and many other things that I use, a shame ... I wish Garmin copy karoo screen, or karoo implement all missing Garmin functions ...
Thanks for these awesome in-depth reviews! Does the K2 have audible alerts for the radar? I find that the most useful feature, since I don't tend to ride with my face in my computer. Hearing an alert prompts me to quickly glance down to see how fast the car is approaching.
The K2 does have audio alerts, unlike the K1 which was criticised for missing that feature. I would say the K2 is slightly louder than the 830 from my experience. I was surprised by the raindrop test on the K2, the K1 was pretty good in the rain and they seemed to promote it that way. On the other hand it's not that bad as you can use the hardware buttons to perform most if not all of the touchscreen functions.
Hey Jon, I ordered a K2 based on your review the end of June. I really liked it, but I just returned it and got the 830. The K2 sensor drop out issue almost got me creamed this weekend. My radar disconnected mid-ride and I didnt notice it... went to take the lane and glanced over my shoulder and a car was RIGHT THERE. very scary. I really like the hardware of the K2, but the software bugs are too numerous right now. I'll keep tabs on Hammerhead in the future, but for now, I'm going with the tried and tested Garmin 830. Thanks for the great review of both devices. would have liked the 1030+ but that is was a bit too rich for my wallet.
@@jonmaloneycycling7593 Therein lies the issue. I was fine with the battery life, the screen is amazing, but for someone wanting a reliable device, its just not there yet. Dont know if it will ever "get there" as it appears each enhancement has the potential to create another bug, like forcing you to sign in to the dashboard to upload a ride after each ride is finished. BTW- That water test was crazy! I didnt realize how bad the K2 was... thankfully you can lock the screen and use the buttons.
Great video, thanks! I own an edge 520 plus, and thinking to change it with a 830 especially for new MTB features, such as the ongoing climb. But especially for a crappy GPS reception: some trails I use Garmin lost immediately the GPS signal, I don't want to buy a new model and find the same issue. Garmin never replied to my questions. What abou hammerhead GPS signal? Thank you!
Phone notifications don't work on the K2. Perfect! I carry my phone, and I might check them when I stop. Or maybe I won't. I'm riding, not connecting. The water test is totally irrelevant to me since when the rain comes I will more likely seek shelter than keep riding.
I was looking everywhere for this comparison, and glad you nailed it with this video! Like the no fuss hands-on commentary, although it tends to ramble on a bit. I definitely have my mind made up about which one I prefer, so massive thanks for that!
@@jonmaloneycycling7593 honestly your casual style is quite good, I don't really have anything to critique. As a suggestion, I would dial down the repetition. It will make the commentary slightly less casual, but more focussed. Not dial it down all the way, but just a little bit to still keep it casual. I believe the viewers will feel they are getting more info out of the video, but you would not want to bombard them with information either as some other channels do. So it's a balancing act. I tend to ramble as well, will stop now. And thanks for asking!
Hi Jon, thanks four your very detailled review on those devices. It's been around a year and a half now since the video was released. How have software updates actually improved the things you've complained about the K2 in early 2021? How is the battery life now? Best regards.
Hi Jon, thank you for a detailed comparison between the 2 devices. As for the water-on-screen test, I'm a bit puzzled since Karoo 2 has extra 4 side buttons, why not use those buttons if the screen was doused with water? Isn't that a plus for Karoo 2 to have the button option, whereas for the Edge 830, it can work solely via touchscreen, so if somehow the screen is incapacitated, then without any extra buttons, you cannot access the device functions/features. ;)
@@jonmaloneycycling7593 Oh, I thought if there is water on the screen & the touch screen doesn't work, then the 4 buttons might be the alternative input option to access the unit features instead. The water droplets do not totally immobilize the functioning of the device right? Are you able to test that out (if you still got the unit)?
Great review...honest compared to most influencers. Water test is a deal breaker. Side note, my 830 is just as bad in water with a 3rd party glass screen protector..had to remove it and problem solved.
Garmin also syncs all routes in one place. They're all in courses on your device or in Garmin connect app. You simply need to connect Strava, komoot or ride with gps accounts to Garmin connect. This feature is for about a year now. Better prepare next time.
Nice video! 👊 I use a 530 and love it...works perfect and never had an issue...I prefer the buttons and the remote On my MTB I use it with cadence sensor, heart monitor, remote control and my phone On my Egravel with the heart monitor, phone and with the bike info Using all that with the screen always on at 30% of brightness I have an average battery life of 18hs
Hi Jon, your K2 reviews are the best. Do you know they fixed sensor lost when you stop for >5 min. I almost pull the trigger on K2 ( they have started trade in program), but found that KAROO2 doesn't record calories to fit. file???? OMG
Future bike computers are going to be brilliant, great review... Nothing beats your phone in your back, backpack going to work, I record to #Strava so it's all there... Thanks for your review, Kurt
Thank you. I just returned my 830 and ordered the K2 (before seeing your video) for the reasons you cited. Maps and nav are most important to me and the Garmin map interaction just frustrated me - slower, smaller, tougher to read & interact with. Nice device but . . . . I want for both road and MTB, but the extra Garmin features while cool just got in the way - especially in realtime while riding. Hopefully the K2 is easier/simpler/clearer for my needs. Especially in the woods where it is easy to get lost - good maps to dynamically plot my course is critical. We'll see.
Another great video! Thanks again for comparing these devices. I have a Garmin watch that I wear daily, but I think I'm going to give the Karoo a try as my first real bike computer based on what appears to be a real dedication to make their product more usable over time. That start-up philosophy makes me feel better about giving them my money.
Awesome and in-depth comparison. I am planning to grab a bike computer on sale anytime aroud Black Friday-ish. I am biased with Garmin and have a Forerunner 945. I use a phone now with a case and a Garmin outfront mount. Works perfect. But having a dedicated head unit is just good. Now, I want a touchscreen and maps. The 1030 is too big (and expensive), the 830 is a little too small. The Karoo 2 seems to be a great option if I can sacrifice some of the training features (which I'd get on my watch anyway). I am also browsing the map and route randomly rather than follow a course. I think that also speaks for the Karoo 2. I am just worried how the Karoo story will last and how this is going to be with updates and stuff. I don't want the baloon to just pop. Anyone ideas and exprience to share? How much has the firmware improved since the video?
Hey Jon, excellent video. I appreciate you are being honest and not beelining for a specific brand. I'm eyeing Karoo 2 atm. Would you say that in six months since the review, some of the things you had problems with improved?
No problem with Phone notification for me, K2 and Google Pixel 5, you have to grant every permission on the phone and its working hassle-free. Had a Huawei before, P40 Pro Plus without Google Service, with that phone notification would mostly not work on the K2, but as mentioned, with the Pixel absolutely no problem.
Really good informative video, keep at it. Have a cycling channel too. But is hard work and slow moving forward. But you are doing some good stuff. The only comment i would say here is the Garmin, is just unreliable, i had so much trouble with them, stop working. Straight line rides and poor screen response. I switch to wahoo. So good. The touch screen is just a big gimick. Still rocking the first elemnt and still solid.
Thx a lot. Garmin retro OS sucks..I have/had so many problems with my 1030 with navigating and connection to other devices but I also see the better maps for MTB which holds me back to buy the Karoo.
I have both and the K2 beats the Garmin in almost every way. It can also sideload android apps like komoot. It's processor is around 4 times more powerful. And the screen beats Garmin hands down. No comparaison
Thanks for your video! I was also allowed to do the "water test" yesterday. But I have a huge battery problem: no sensor on, no paired phone, brightness to 0% (no typing error!) travel time 4.25 hours. The battery has used 35%. What does the battery use when sensors and phone are paired and the brightness is at 30% ?! I am really very disappointed about this and am seriously considering sending the K2 back.
Hello Jon, thank you for an other great, informative and non-bias review. I am a new MTB'er and was having my eyes on K2 but looks like it's lacking a lot of features for MTB's. From my understanding, you are very close to Karoo and I am sure know more than us about their upcoming updates. Do you know anything specific for MTB's? Are they at least aware of their shortcoming and working on them or they set their roadmap for road bikers? Thank you.
Thanks for this extensive video. As a mountainbiker, I'm more interested in MTB functionality. And correct me if I'm wrong, but you didn't test out Live-Tracking? For me this is a huge deal, since I sometimes ride alone. For me, the Karoo 2 is a bit of a dissapointment haveing hoped for the ultimate computer. Therefore, the 830 would suit my needs just fine.
I have a K2 and I'm so annoyed with it. Battery did not even last for a 5.5 hour ride at less than 30% brightness. Only sensor connected was my HR over ant+. Screen turns on and off to save battery for 20kms at the end and it still died. Joke. I had done the software update the day before (and that may have changed something) but but no excuses for such a short battery life on a cycling computer.
Supercaz bar tape on a Trek that’s a sin!:) Wahoo 4 life or at least until they seriously mess it up. i think karoo is still a raw product. this year they have a pro team using maybe with some guidance and feedback from them it will become a solid product. you are good people Jon, fukn love your vids!
@@jonmaloneycycling7593 bontraeger tape that came with my emonda grew on me. i thought i would have to change it to my favorite fizik but i think i’m going to get rid of fizik on my other bike.
Good review, Jon. I've jumped on the HH K2 bandwagon after 10+ years with an old Garmin Edge 500! Here is what I think about the K2, so far (received it in early Feb): I'm good with the battery - I can get 10 hours confidently with my set-up (Tickr HRM, Favero pedals for power and cadence, and nothing else). Just did a 6.5 hour ride and ended with 54% remaining on the battery. I don't need/want phone notification (I have the phone in my jersey pocket, anyway). I like the buttons vs swiping the screen. I haven't used it for structured workouts, yet; but, look forward to it as the functionality matures. The screen is nice, except that HH makes it very difficult to read the text on the screen (small, subdued font). In particular, the remaining battery percentage is smaller than all other text and is almost impossible to read in daylight conditions. That is all fixable with SW updates. What I'd really like to see is pedaling/power dynamics like Garmin's. That is the one "feature" that I'd like to see HH prioritize. I don't use the lap function much, but agree that previous lap data next to current lap data would be great. Bottom line - concur that the K2 has a lot of potential; but even as is, it is a huge step up from my old Edge 500! Keep the great content coming.
I just repeated your water test with my K2 and it works well even with water on the screen. I also find the re-routing on K2 better, for it guides you back to your track, while the Garmin stubbornly tells you to U-turn, which is not what you want while riding... Globally I agree though that K2 is promising but at the moment it is still a nope... You can't even type an address on that thing (so I refuse to call it a GPS), like "bring me back home" when you just ride to anywhere + the I/F is rrrreally not intuitive. *&^ buttons I hate them, I keep on switching off the screen unintentionally, the zooming is all but intuitive, etc etc. I'll give it another thought for the K7...
@@jonmaloneycycling7593 Don‘t worry, just kidding about the „slide over the wet display“ part you repeated so many times. Like your videos.👍 Greetings from Berlin, Germany
I was thinking the same thing but surely when riding you would prefer buttons anyway. Off the bike, probably touch screen and then you could just dry it.
Thx. Is it possible to lock/unlock the touchscreen with a button combo? Edit: it's possible: support.hammerhead.io/hc/en-us/articles/360056813834-Touchscreen-Lock
So Garmin has some (useful for some ppl, I respect that) "bloatware" and bit better battery but slower, screen glare etc. REALLY ? Does it even count as comparison ? What could be more important than screen and speed on a bike computer ?? It is like having two comparable bikes with following highliights: one has great geometry frame, strong a light wheels, second has that clever storage for a portable bike tool :-D
I will pray for you will get 1M subscriber's very soon You are just awesome man. i don't have any phone Iam using my mother's phone A PHONE IS MY DREAM I
So I love this guy's enthusiasm, it's contagious. But his reviews are very opinionated, without proper research. He'll say "I don't understand this, I never use, this feature what can I tell you....", which to me is just very generic and not useful. I mean, people watch to get opinions, but also to see them backed up by reasonable experimentation and fact. In this regard, try watching some of DC Rainmakers reviews. Very comprehensive, even-keeled, incredibly well-researched, and you can tell the guy is competent. Sometimes I feel like this guy kinda goes by what he personally likes or dislikes or what he thinks. Some things he says are then outright ridicolous, like when he says the Garmin is "a tank, and very reliable." HA!!! The only reason Garmin lost substantial market share to Hammerhead and Wahoo, is the WELL-KNOWN UNRELIABILITY OF THE GARMINS!!! Across the whole line, from the 810 to the 830, the Edge Explorer, the 1030, ecc. ecc. Hundreds and hundreds of examples of random turn-offs, data loss, data loss mid-ride, battery collapsing, updates that erase all data, ecc.ecc. ecc. Too many examples to mention that have gone on for years, and which Garmin has not addressed... study, research, do your research before making certain statements. Otherwise, it just makes you look ridiculous...
HI Andreagv3, I love your enthusiasm for being condescending and annoying, it's contagious. You complain that the reviewer is very opinionated? It's HIS PERSONAL review of products HE went out and purchased, to give people watching a chance to hear HIS personal opinions on. If he did "extensive research" on complaints Garmin have received through the years, he would be researching OTHER people's opinions. You're missing the whole point, you bell end. He's doing a review based on his personal experience, not writing a fucking dissertation to hand in to Professor Andreagv3.
Great review. HANDS DOWN THE GARMIN. The fact you can't use the H2 with water on it is a deal breaker. The fact that there are no apps for the H2 is a deal breaker. The fact that you cannot control, light, Di2 and many other things is a deal breaker. The screen on the Garmin IS BETTER. The build is BETTER. The features the Garmin has is BETTER. I would use the bike alarm and the hydration nutrition alerts. I would use the notifications. I'd rather have a feature rich device than feature poor. It is better to have and not need than need and not have. Especially for the price.
